NATURES PARADOX: OR, The Innocent Impostor.  
A PLEASANT POLONIAN HISTORY: Originally Entitled IPHIGENES.  
Compiled in the FRENCH Tongue BY The rare Pen of J. P. CAMUS, B. of BELIE.  
AND NOW. Englished by Major WRIGHT.  Optabilis est in Amore fucus; eò gratior Superis, Quò magis Innocens. Macrob. in Saturn. 
LONDON, Printed by J. G. for EDW. DOD, and NATH. EKINS, and are to be sold at the Gun in Ivy-lane, 1652.   

Errata.  
P. 2. 3. l. 39 1. r. raised to that. p. 3. l. 15. r. Militia. p. 7. l. 33. r. have. p. 30. l. 38. r. Arctic p. 56. l. 10. r. no less. p. 57 l. 7. r. knowledge she. p. 59 l. 1. r. prejudicial. p. 62. l. 15. r. Eyes of p. 70 l. 23, 24. r. declared p. 84. l. 5, 6. r. all-conquering fire. p. 95. l. 21. r. bent and make. p. 100 l. 11. r. troubled p. 107. l. 19, 20. r. indecency p. 142. l. 4. r. handsome cheat. p. 158. l. 32. r. difficultly. p. 171. l. 24. r. proceed. p. 175. l. 31. r. endeavoured p. 189. l. 13. r. having. p. 194. l. 4. r. endear Celian. p. 198. l. 38. r. Gentlewoman, p. 200. l. 29. r. keep his. p. 231. l. 32. r. her slave. p. 245. l. 34. r. our words. p. 253. l. 33. r. trouble me; for, p. 256. l, 30. r. overwhelmed. p. 262. l. 4. r. contained but too many attractions to captive his desire. p. 269. l. 28. r. his valour. p. 272. l. 3, 4. r. received, p. 273. l. 13. r. beloved is to. p. 277. l. 3. r. falling into. p. 286. l. 18. r. So he. p. 289. l. 27, 28. r. walking. p. 304. l. 22. r. Specious. p. 309. l. 36 r. another Object. Whereupon, p. 320. l. 9 r. It is p. 325. l. 15 r. an heart, l. 25. r. stopped up, p. 331. l. 28. r. such Dexterity, p. 333. l. 12. r. told him; only. p. 363. l. 10. r. so perfectly resembled a Br. p. 366. l. 5. r. honouring her. l. 16. r. Lady p. 367. l. 30. r. who had. l. 37. r. by a way.   

The OECONOMY of this History.  
NAture's grand Historiographer mentions a Tree he had seen at Tivoly, on whose Trunk were ingraffed several Branches that bore distinct sorts of fruit; Here Cherries, there Plums, on that side Apricocks, on this Peaches: But this vegetive wonder could be of no long continuance, by reason its Radical moisture was distributed to so many Species. What will be the Fate of this tender Sien, depends on the smiles or frowns of the Judicious Reader, from the influence of which it must either grow or whither; however in some sort it is not unlike that Tree, since to the stock of the same subject are inoculated some coined varieties, which are but adopted to the main Body of the History; They are Clouds, yet inoffensive (which Eclipse not absolutely the day's lustre, but only veil the Glory of the luminous Planet that forms it) or rather Ornaments, which, in decking, somewhat disguise, and lay a fresh Vermilion upon the pale Cheek of Truth: Some, by nature or evil custom, have contracted such a disposition, that if an History (according to their apprehensions) carry an uncommon Face, they can afford it no other style than of a Fable, never considering that our Eyes converse daily with a thousand things which pose our Reason; and many effects are palpably apparent to us, of whose Causes we are entirely ignorant. Another Tide of fantastical humours carries some Brains into a Belief, that Truths are Fables, as the former esteem Fables, Truths. It is not unlikely, in regard this History hath some resemblance to Ovid's Fable of Iphis and janthe (whence indeed the names of the Principal persons in this Narration are borrowed) some will be apt to say, It is either a fabulous History, or a Fable Historized: I am as little Master of their Tongues as of their judgements, let it suffice for an equitable Reader's satisfaction and mine own, that I have it from an Author so authentic, that his report is as far beyond Question as Contradiction. 'tis true, my renowned Bishop acknowledges there are divers Passages of his own invention inserted in the Principal relation of Iphigenes fortune: But whosoever would take away those particoloured Feathers, which He so ingeniously hath mixed to embellish this Piece, would find its Body as little, in comparison, as a Nightingale's, which the Lacedaemonian said was nought else but a Voice. Certain Works there are, whose specious titles promise advantages in the Front, that are not to be found in the Perusal; Others within a rough and inconsiderable outside, contain the precious Pearls of good Learning and profitable Documents: And notwithstanding at first they appear confused, or more beholding to Chance than any Method for their Contexture, yet (when atrentively considered) do disclose an agreeable Connexion, a well regulated Order, and no ill-observed Proportion. For which consideration (Courteous Reader) I thought it not improper to present you this OECONOMY, to the end you may know, that among all the Romantic Histories, which have fallen from my Author's Pen (and happily may have passed before your Eyes) there is not any that seems less Methodical, and yet is more answerable to the Rules than this. Be not therefore too ready to precspitate your censure upon what your judicious Eye may encounter of lean and frivolous in this Story, Impartiality being able to require your Patience with the view of such Heroic Actions in this volume as may countervail the simplicity of the rest; Though neither (in my opinion) be impertinent, unless you will deny the difference of Notes in Music to be requisite for the composition of the most melodious Accords, and make Shadows useless for the composition of the most melodious Accords, and make Shadows useless for the embellishment of Pictures, or diversity of Flowers for enamelling delightful Garden-Plotts. This Narration runs in a continual line, and the subject threads itself so insensibly, that you will feel your Fancy led (as it were) by a little chain from one manner of Life to another, very different, without perceiving the change. Chemists give the name of Depart to a certain water which they use to separate divers Metals in one Lump; for your facility I shall make trial of some such, to Anatomize the body of this Work.  
As the Eternal Gaider of all things hath divided the Spacious Roof of Heaven into five distinct Zones; Or as the Dramatists dispose their Stories into five Acts, subdividing them into several Scenes, So the Relation contained in this volume is digested into five Principal Parts. The First may properly be termed the INFANTINE or INNOCENT; wherein you shall see the Birth and Education of IPHIGENES, with his pretty harmless Employments during his tenderest years. The Second you may call the AULICK or COURTLY Part; In this IPHIGENES appears in his Glory at the Court, the Splendour, Policy, Emulation, Mines and Countermining, with the rest of the Beauties and Blemishes of that Life my Author represents not impertinently. The Third is the RUSTIC; where our Grand Favourite is represented in some kind of disgrace (being confined to his Palatinate) amusing himself in the exercises of Hunting and Rural divertisements: In this Part are described the discommodities and contentments of a Country-life, the imperfections of the vulgar People, Their rude, cruel and incivill dispositions. The Fourth deserves the title of HEROICK; because it treats of Wars, Combats, Sieges, Stratagems, not without the intermixture of some Love-Plots, Negotiations of State-Affairs and Treaties of Peace, wherein our HEROS displays grand testimonies of his Courage, and Conduct. The Fift and last is the NUPTIAL; Which, at the Marriage of IPHIGENES with LIANTE, represents the Banquets, Tilt and Magnificences usual at such solemnities, when KINGS will show to those they love the Marks of their Grandeur and Affection; Which, indeed, are herein but sparingly described, because the precedent Parts had already extended this Relation beyond the intended Limits; In any whereof if you find either a Deficiency or Overacting Consider this Piece was composed by a Prelate, who (unless for his Divertisement) was not accustomed to loosen his Genius to such light studies, yet hath been so fortunate as not to be less esteemed for these Levitieses, by such as are capable to judge of his Language, than admired for the Graver productions of his Pen; But if in my Dialect I have too weakly rendered his acquaint Conceptions, I hope you will have Candour sufficient to pardon my Defects, and encourage by your indulgence the endeavours of Him, whose Ambition was rather to delight you than content. Himself.  
Farewell. J. W.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE, JAMES, Earl of NORTHAMPTON; etc. And the Signally Virtuous ISABEL, His Incomparable LADY.  
RIGHT HONOURABLE,  
DId the endeavours of my Artless Pen suit with the Judicious Ingenuity of my Author, I might be capable of indulging a Hope, that the Grandeur of your Persons, tempered with the Candour of your Minds, would find something here that may help to wing your Hours; Since in this volume are represented in Green years, Maturity of judgement; in High Fortunes, Humility; in Authority, Discretion; in Abundance, Sobriety mixed with Generosity; Neither is wanting Valour accompanied with Honour (which have been the Marks, and are now the known Favourites of Your virtuous Inclinations) or Piety joined with Purity, whereof you are living Copies, or rather perfect Models. Here the Passions are painted in their several Convulsion-fits, the Excesses and Transports of which may raise no unpleasing reflections upon the calm & untroubled freedom of your Spirits; In sum, you will find the grave BELIE hath stored his Principal Subject with both your own precious Plenty, as if your several virtues had sat while he drew his IPHIGENE; and I hope it will not offend you to see your Faces in such a Mirror. He was so happy in his Addresses of the Original that by the support and Patronage of that Princely Pair, the Duke of VANTADOUR and the Princess of TINGRY his Lady, it added no mean lustre to his deserving Pen, and got him such a spreading Applause from all his Readers, that a Third Impression sufficed not to satisfy their Curiosities. Suffer his Example then to excuse my Presumption, and give this Adventurous VIRAGO leave to fight her Battles in both the Camps of LOVE and VALOUR under your Banners; Which granted (though Combated by Calumny and Criticism) She cannot fail to come off Victorious. I am not insensible that this English Habit becomes Her worst of all her Wardrobe, but there is a Power in your Acceptance to make Plainness, a Fashion; and teach the World to deal gently with the defects of  
RIGHT HONOURABLE, The humble Votary of his best wishes for a perpetual Spring of Happiness to your Honours, WRIGHT.   


To his highly valued FRIEND, Major WRIGHT; Upon his Excellent Translation of his ROMANCE, Entitled, NATURE'S PARADOX: Or, The INNOCENT IMPOSTOR.  

LInes dipped in Love should not extracted be  
Wholly from Sublimated Mercury;  
High-buskind Airs decline their proper end  
In Paeans to a true deserving Friend.  
Lines, like good faces, should have choice complexion,  
A neat proportion, and an apt Connexion.  
Where, as the Eye's the Index of the mind,  
The Inward Eye should like attraction find.  
Nor in my judgement do I hold it fit  
To Paraphraze upon a Divine Wit;  
Where every Clause displays a Close of Worth,  
And needs no tinsel Art to set it forth.  
Though there be pregnant Fancies, I confess,  
Who have with much facetious happiness  
Performed this Task: yet have I oft been vexed  
To see a Paraphrase abuse the Text.   

Good Works are Tests sufficient, and retain  
Such glorious beamlings from Minerva's brain,  
That should they want a Frontispiece, the Eye  
Might find where to admire and Deify.   

Seven-mounted 
* Quae fuit Historiae priscae vel origo modernae. Quin pcperit proli Regia Roma Suae? Prud.  Rome from whence Romances came  
By thy politer Pen revive's her Fame;  
And from her ashy Urn heaves up her Head,  
To tell thee, Major WRIGHT, She is not dead,  
But so enlivened by thy serious Quill,  
That her Seven Mounts seem one Pierian Hill.   

Her pure-Provinciall 
* Italian.  Tongue known to adorn  
Which thou enamelst so with thy Translation,  
We hold us happy that thou knewst our Nation.   

Reader, this Testate's just: I should be loath  
To lure thee with hyperbolising froth.  
If ever Builder raised a Story better,  
I to thy judgement will become a Debtor;  
So it be Pure-refined: but if't appear  
A thick Plebeian Scull; Friend, come not here.  
Cato's walk only on this rich-paved Floor  
While Ignorance must knock and stand at door.  
Here's a new opened Mine, where wits of Stature,  
And higher growth find th' PARADOX of NATURE,  
Full of Choice Sense and Language; and though th' Style  
IMPOSTOR be, 'tis INNOCENT the while;  
But such an Innocence as 'twill beget  
Rich Influence in Him digesteth it.   
R. BRATHWAIT.   

Upon this Exquisite ROMANCE, Written by the Famous B. of Belie, Naturalised, and made English By Major WRIGHT.  

MY Wit lay Fallow, and my teeming Brain  
Thought to repose a while from any strain  
Of Poetising, when the Air of France  
Roused up my Fancy in this fresh Romance,  
This rich Romance, which both for Weight and Sense,  
For various Notions, and neat Eloquence;  
And now in point of Version may compare  
With any of this kind though ne'er so rare.   

Original and Copy Co-excell,  
The Prelate and the Soldier share the Bell:  
In Speech they differ, but for Mind and Frame  
They are unanimous, and still the same.  
By this I find, which Men do seldom see,  
That Mercury, and Mars may well agree.   
JAM. HOWELL.   

Impartial CONCEPTIONS CONCERNING The AUTHOR, and TRANSLATOR OF THIS Renowned ROMANCE.  

MUse, do not strive, I know thou art too mean  
To celebrate this rich Polonian Scene;  
This task's not thine, but theirs, who whilst they praise,  
Desert in others deserve equal Bays:  
And with triumphant Genius can compose  
Enconiums in either Verse or Prose.  
And as this story's worth they clear discern,  
By teaching Virtues they can Virtues learn;  
Show young, and old, the Male, the Female state,  
Their Wills, their Actions how to regulate.  
Here Wisdom, Valour, Chastity, discreet  
Comportment, true Civilities, strong, sweet  
Rules for each Fortune; in varieties  
Of Friends, and Foes, Noble Fidelities;  
Their parts with such persuasive Grace's act  
That they best Eyes, and Hearts of France attract.  
These, He whose Love is my loved Ornament  
With equal Grace to England doth present,  
That so in English minds his generous Skill  
Those Virtues, and their Habits might instill;  
Though He to us this glorious Theatre  
Of Pleasure, and of Profit but transfer,  
His Work with so Victorious Art is wrought,  
The Dignity thereof exceeds thy Thought.  
Yet, Muse, although I grant you are too weak  
Of all with a due Elegy to speak,  
You, with assurance of applause, may say,  
WRIGHT writes best English, as, best French, BELLAY.   
John Chapperline.   

To his Friend the STATIONER, on the publishing the Famous Romance, CALLED THE INNOCENT IMPOSTOR.  

'tWill be expected now that I should raise  
Some Monument unto the Author's praise,  
The Work's, or the Translatour's, else, I fear,  
The Reader'll wonder, what I do make here.  
'tis grown Apocryphal, And by the Wits  
Quite voted down; Who hold it not be fits  
A trueborn Fancy to be Smithfield-wise  
Put off with Toll and Vouchers; This defies  
Such Crutches, for 'tis of so clear a Nature  
'twill pass without the chaplains Imprimatur,  
Or our Certificates. Besides, I carry  
Such a dislike to all things Customary,  
I'll cheat all Expectation, and will be  
Thankful to them, but chief unto Thee.  
In these Selfe-ended times, we only do  
Or thank or praise those we're beholding to.  
So call our Justice Charity, and say  
We do bestow, when we do only pay.  
For though the work be rare; yet should it be  
Still in its Dress, what had it been to me?  
And though Translated by this worthy Pen,  
If not exposed to the view of men,  
I had ne'er seen't perhaps. But since all three  
Have Clubbed in this Production, I must be  
Grateful to all and to give all your right,  
Must Praise, and Love and thank Bellay, Dod, Wright.   
ALEX. BROME.   

Upon BELLEY'S IPHIGENES, bettered into English by the Ingenious Pen of His Dear Brother, Major WRIGHT.  

I Need not injure Truth to Blazon thee  
(Were't in my power) with Wit's false Heraldry:  
For, but to give thee all thy due, would swell  
Too high, and turn the Reader Infidel.  
I'll only tell him, he'll find nothing here,  
But what is Manly, Modest, Rich and Clear.  
No Dropsi'd-Monster-words, all sweet, and clean  
As the smooth Cheek of bashful Iphigene;  
Who, as thy Pen has made her wooed and woo,  
Might pass for Venus and Adonis too.  
Thy melting Language (big with nought but sense)  
Delight, and Wonder equally dispense.  
Thy words fall from Thee, like an April Shower,  
Whose every fruitful drop awakes a Flower:  
Serpent and Dove first gently greet and kiss,  
Then lend each other their best qualities;  
Contract a conjugal alliance, whence  
Springs thy Impostor's cunning Innocence;  
Such rooted sweetness grows in every part,  
As if wise Nature taught thee all thy Art.  
But why all this to thee? may Critics say,  
Since what begins the Page confess Belie.  
'tis true, we own the ground to him, to thee  
Are Debtors for the rich Imbroiderie;  
And 'tis but just the World should construed so,  
Rare Titian here copied from Angelo.   
Ro. Loveday.   

To my Learned and Judicious Friend, Major WRIGHT, Upon this Select Piece; Entitled NATURE'S PARADOX, Or, The INNOCENT IMPOSTER.  

DEar Friend, I prise Thee high, but now I'll swear  
thou'rt Metamorphozed to an Usurer,  
[A Paradox indeed] I mean of Tongues,  
Where Art's the Scribe, the Creditors Our Lungs:  
Yet such a one, that though the Increment  
Amount (at least) to Three times Eight per Cent.  
(Maugre the Act which limits it to Six)  
we'll Plead no Forfeit, nor Re-pay with Tricks.  
The Reason's this: [Thy Treasure's Beaten Gold,  
Nor Washed nor Clipped, but truly weight, and told:  
Th' Inscription Signal, (Learning, Judgement, Wit)  
Not simply GOD WITH US, but GOD WITH It;  
Wherein there's no IMPOSTURE, no Offence,  
But what concludes in Sovereign INNOCENCE:  
Nor dost thou Covet or Extort at all,  
We gain by th' Use, as well, as Principal.]  
Why then an Usurer? Because indeed  
(Like unto Him) thou'rt always Pleading Need,  
[A Need of Languages;] and yet I'm sure  
thoust Conquered more, than the Grand Signior:  
The Gulf of Venice Bounds that Monarch's Hand:  
Thou get'st where  Thou go'st, by Sea or Land.  
The Spanish, French, Polonian and Dutch,  
Italian, Irish, Welsh, and Hungry-Scotch,  
Crowed all within Thee; many more beside,  
I doubt even Babel, save the Bricks and Pride.  
Learn but the Language of the Stars; and then  
thoust both the Languages of Gods, and Men.   
G. WHARTON.    

NATURE'S PARADOX: OR, THE INNOCENT IMPOSTOR.  

The First Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
The manner of Government in the Kingdom of Polonia. The Death of Rosuald, Palatine of Podolia, and his Wife. Liante and Modestina their Children, made Wards to Mieslas, who succeeded Rosuald in the Palatinate. Aretuza Wife to Mieslas, Her Policy to deceive his Cruelty. The Birth and manner of Education of Iphigenes. His Marriage to Modestina. Iphigenes endeavours to contract an Alliance betwixt his Sister Clemencia and Liante. Iphigenes is made to understand his own condition by his Mother, and Governor Boleslaus. His love turned from Modestina to Liante. His sorrow for having endeared Liante so much to Clemencia. His departure from Podolia to the Court.  
THe Inhabitants of the Kingdom of Polonia do commonly give their Monarch the style of the KING OF KINGS, and LORD OF LORDS: Not that they are so profane, as (by too execrable a Blasphemy) to ravish that eminent quality from him that beareth it engraven on the blade of his Almighty Justice, who disposeth at his will of the Souls of Princes, and who is terrible above all the Kings of the Earth; But by reason of the form of Government in that Country, which is balanced with somuch Aristocratical temperature, that it seems their King is Sovereign only by the benefit of inventary (as it is termed:) For whereas other Kings are extremely absolute, and have an uncontrollable Power over the bodies, lives, and estates of their Subjects, disposing of them at their wills and pleasure (which is but according to the institution of Royalty determined by Gods own Sacred Mouth, and couched in express terms in the holy Scripture.) It is nothing so amongst the Sarmatians (so were the People of Polonia called) where the Sea of Monarchy hath its bounds, and what storm soever rises in their King's heart, what impetuous Surges or motions of Passion soever agitate his breast, he cannot in any proceed exceed those limits that are prescribed to his Authority by the Power of his States. The opinion of that ancient Emperor, who said, That properly to be a Sovereign, was to do whatsoever he lifted, is of no esteem or value with that Nation; Neither is less exploded there this saying of an imprudent Empress, That nothing was unlawful for Kings to act, if it but pleased their humour. For in that Kingdom, whatsoever concerns the Power, Family and Function of the Monarch, it is all so regulated, that He cannot deviate or outstrip his bounds in the I east, without drawing upon himself sudden Rebellions, and most formidable Combinations. The reason thereof proceeds from this respect, that among those People (who are as free as fierce, and no less generous than haughty) the Kings are Elective, Succession having no interest in that Crown, unless a Son, by his virtuous deportments and valorous Actions, render himself worthy (with the approbation of the Orders) to ascend into the Throne of his Progenitors. From this liberty which the Polonians have of electing their Monarch ariseth this Restriction of the Royal Authority, within such confined terms and limitations, that it is no more possible than lawful to exceed them, without altering the Harmony of that Direction which hath there been established beyond the reach of humane Memory, and exciting in the State Revolutions, or rather Convulrions of most dangerous consequence. It is to be observed, that the ecclesiastics and the Nobility only have votes at these Elections: the third Order (which is, the Common People) is excluded, and must receive for their King, him, that is lawfully chosen, according to the form and custom of the Country, by the other two Orders; Who after the Election (though they leave to the King the honour and prebeminence in all things, rendering him the homage and reverence that's due to a Sovereign, and all those whom the hand of Providence hath raised that high Dignity) reserve to themselves however the power of governing and administering Justice, by which Kings reign, and by which they maintain the Regency of their Kings and Laws. As for the Ecclesiastical State, That hath its Policy apart, which particularly regardeth Spiritual Affairs, and the Conduct or Cure of Souls: And the Secular (which concerneth Political matters, as the exercise of Justice, aswell Civil as Criminal, and the administration of Government and Military functions) is chief in the hands of certain great Officers, named Castellains & Palatines, who are little Sovereign Lords, or Petty Kings, every one in his own Territory. For instance, The Castellains are those who have Lands, Cities, Burroughs, Villages and Seignories under their subjection, as for matters concerning Justice; and their Authority is so great, that their Jurisdiction is without Appeal. Moreover, in case of troubles, they have power to levy Forces, impose Taxes, raise Money to pay and bear the charges of their Miltitia, and do other Actions in this nature, which in other Monarchies are reserved only to the Sovereignty. The Palatines are like Governors of Provinces, but they are so absolute in their Governments, that they command the Castellaines and the People at their pleasure, exact Tributes, press Soldiers, appoint quarters, give Commissions: in a word, they are like petrie Kings in their Palatinates, such sudden and exact obedience is rendered them, so Supreme and  is their Power. Insomuch that the King (to return to the Proverb before mentioned) commanding as King over the Palatines and Castellains, is in this consideration called KING OF KINGS, that is, of the Palatines, who are in effect petty Kings; and LORD OF LORES, that is, of the Castellains, who are like little Princes. The History which I am about to relate, obligeth me to represent this form of Government, as being the Basis and principal foundation thereof, by reason of the Power (almost Tyrannical) of one of these Palatines, who shall appear upon this Scene we are now opening, and who would seem strange, nay altogether extraordinary to the Reader, that should fancy to himself a Country ordered according to the Rule and Policy of FRANCE or SPAIN, where the Monarch being more absolute, the Authority of Governors is much less; not unlike to that of the meaner Lights of th' Heaven, which have no light or lustre before the Sun of Sovereignty: whereas on the contrary in Polonia the Palatines do execute their Charges, and exercise their Jurisdiction in the presence of their King, as if their Authority depended rather on Monarchy then on the Monarch, nothing being able to make them be deposed or dispossessed of their Commands, but State Crimes which make them lose their Dignities with their Lives.  
Under the Reign of him that preceded MONSIEUR of France (than Brother to CHARLES the IX. and Duke of Anjou, and who was afterwards HENRY the III. of France, having forsaken the Crown of Polonia) A certain Lord Castellain, by name Rosuald, who (though not descended of very ancient Nobility, nor much in favour with Fortune for matter of estate) was elevated for his valour to the Palatinate of Podolia. Governments and great Offices are like Vessels full of liquor, whereinto if you cast a sponge, though ne'er so dry and hard, it will presently be filled and pierced through. Rosuald was so able and understanding a Man, that without oppressing much his Subjects, or exacting any thing in his Province, that might render him any way odious or , by subtle and (probably) lawful means he became so rich, that (Peace by virtue of his mediation and good conduct reigning among all the families where he introduced Concord) Abundance entered within his Territories; insomuch that it might be said of him, That Glory and Riches were in his House, That his Garners sunk under the burden of Corn, his Cellars were overflowed with Wine, That out of the very stones burst Rivulets of Oil, That his Coffers were not capacious enough to contain his Treasures. In sum, That he was one of the most opulent Palatines in Polonia: But the inexorable Parca that pardons no body (and who being blind cut's the thread of life when she pleases, without distinction of Age, Condition or Sex) stopped the course of this Noble-man's days in the full Current of his Prosperity (at such years as but just passing out of Virility he saluted only the first and freshest time of Old-Age,) by an unexpected accident, which made him bring Death with him home from Hunting. His Lady, who was then big with Child (though otherwise very chaste and virtuous, yet a woman (that is to say) as little capable of constancy as a Reed of steadiness) suffering herself to be transported by the excess of an inconsolable sorrow, precipitated her delivery in the seaventh Month, and after a Son which she had brought forth into the World, but one year before, She was made a Mother at this second and last labour of a Daughter, which had life, but by her death. For whether her grief and conceding anguish hastened the birth of the Child, or whether because her Body was no less cruelly afflicted with the Pangs of her Travel, than her mind for the loss of her Husband, the Daughter remaining with the living, laid her Mother among the Dead, leaving these poor innocent Orphans to the merciless pity of Men; but under the tuition of that great King of Heaven and Earth, who taketh little Ones for his Heritage, who taketh care even of young Ravens when abandoned by their Dams, and who gives himself the style of Guardian and protector of the Fatherless.  
In the charge of the Palatinate of Podolia succeeded Rosnald a Nobleman of a middle Age, named Mieslas, who was born of a very ancient & noble Family: But that falls out in Generations sometimes, which is always incident to the most stately structures, that is, Time with his gentle file doth insensibly waste and diminish them; For it is frequently seen that the Nobleness of an Extraction advancing and enlarging its greatness by the long succession of years, the Estate is divided into divers branches, which so weakeneth and lesseneth the stock, that in the end it is a shame to be so Noble and so poor, to have so great a Heart and such weak Reins, that (not having faculties sufficient) a man cannot maintain the splendour extracted from his Ancestors. For this Reason in great Houses the heirs have in a manner all, to the end that by this industry their wealth may serve as nerves and supporters to uphold that magnificence, which distinguisheth those of Illustrious Descents from the Vulgar. Mieslas being elevated to this eminent Dignity (which renders men in Polonia of equal quality with the Peers of France, Grandees of Spain, and Earls of England, that is to say, the chief and most remarkable Persons of that Country, for they are as much as Vice-Kings;) And seeing himself as mean for matter of Estate, as considerable for Honour both by Birth and Quality, was on a sudden cast into an inconceivable distraction of Mind and pain; not much unlike unto that of the fabulous Midas, who not being able to feed or nourish himself, because every thing he touched was presently turned to Gold, poor in his abundance, He abhorred in a manner what he had aspired to with so much eagerness, being angry with himself that his Abilities would not reach to maintain by a competent and suitable expense the Pomp and magnificence of his Dignity. The Condition of this ambitious Sarmatian, me thinks, is very lively represented by the Child in the Emblem, whose wing seems to flutter up on one side, but the other is depressed to the ground with a heavy stone: being pricked one while with the spur of Glory (which puffed him up by reason of his high birth and quality) another while being inflamed with an extreme desire of having where withal to support the Height of his Dignity and Extraction, He was like an high mettled Horse, which feeling two sharp spurs in his Flank, curvets and fling's as if he disdained a Rider; But as the twisting Ivy cannot raise itself from the ground, unless it embrace the Trunk of some neighbouring Tree, or be backed by some kind Wall, so Mieslas deeming Wealth the greatest lustre, and (as it were) the main Pillar of Honour, resolved to use any means (lawful or unlawful) to purchase it. The first that the Power (shall I say) or the Tyranny of his new charge put into his greedy mind, was to load his shoulders with the sweet burden of the Gardianship of the two Pupils already mentioned, although their Kindred strove to subvert his design, perceiving plainly that he would prove like an Eagles' feather, which eats away and consumes the others, that is to say, That this old Saturn would devour those pirtifull young Children: In a word, having by favour, obtained the Wardship, or tuition of them, and being established by Authority in the government, or more properly, in the enjoyment of their most plentiful estates (as he succeeded their Father Rosuald in the Palatinate) without scruple he made use of his riches to maintain the Port and Magnificence of his great Birth and Office. But that Eternal Power which resides in Heaven, which presides over the designs of Men, who sees their thoughts a far off, knows their ways and counts their steps, and who hath in his hands the ends of the Earth; It is he that dissipates the Counsels of the wicked, and reproves their inventions. It is He that takes into his safeguard the widow and the Fatherless, and confounds the ways of the evil-doers: As we shall see in the progress of this Narration, which will demonstrate how Providence did by her disposing, take the Counterpoint in opposition to the purposes of Mieslas; and whereas he intended to swallow Rosuald's Estate, and make that Family fall into his, Heaven brought to pass the contrary. For as the Appetite comes with eating, and the desire of having being commonly compared to an Hydropical humour, which the more it drinks the more it thirsts; Mieslas not contented with the administration of his Ward's whole Estate, which he found a very plentiful, and almost undreinable Source of Riches, whereof he disposed at his pleasure (like one that cuts in the whole Piece) and made use of it to maintain the Pomp and State, that high degree of honour (whereunto Fortune had raised him) did require, aswell to avoid any Demands or Inquiries, and not to be subject to render an account to any, as to make this Estate in some manner his own, and without enchantment to make the Corn leap from another's ground upon his; He passionately desired to draw unto himself that mighty Mass of Wealth by some Alliance (the ordinary hook that great ones use to catch the fattest Preys.) But God who merely by the confusion of Tongues subverted the proud design of the Children of Nimrod, laughing at the vain pretensions of Mieslas, gave him no Offspring but Daughters; and every body knows that sex is far more likely to transport a succession into another family, then to continue a name and convey it to Posterity. This multiplicity of Daughters put the fierce Sarmatian not only into impatience, but transported him into a boundless and unheard-of fury: For as if his Wife (a Lady full of Honour and Virtue) had been voluntarily the cause of his discontentment, he used her so barbarously, that his inhumanity drew upon him the hatred and scorn of the whole World. Isaac at the importunity of Rebecca (who bade him get her Children, if he would not see her die with grief) answered, that he was not God to give her Progeny: implying, that as it is not from him that plants, or from him that sows, that fruits proceed, but from God, who gives life and growth to every thing, and who opening his hand fills every creature with his blessing and fecundity, so Husbands cannot give Issue, if God showers not down upon their Marriage the Benediction of his sweetness; neither can they have Children according to their own wishes, but according to the good pleasure of him who is Creator of both Fathers and Children, and from whom proceeds all Paternity in Heaven and on Earth. It was by an industry inspired from above, that jacob spotted with white and black the Lambs of his flock, to enrich himself in Laban's service: But though he gave them such coloured Coats as he pleased by virtue of his wands, it was not in his power to make them of what Sex he listed. The discreet Aretuza (so shall Mieslas his Wife be called) might have returned the same answer to her barbarous and unreasonable Husband, as Isaac did to the extravagant demand of his Wife; But that Mieslas was not to be answered but by suffering and silence, otherwise he would hvae raged like one of those Earthquakes, which overturn every thing that opposes their turbulency. And that which aggravated the distemper of his mind, was not only that he had none but Daughters, but what was worse, and less supportable in that Sex (whose Element is Beauty, or at least a graceful comeliness, which proceeds from a just and handsome composition) they brought into the World with them such remarkable imperfections, and such monstrous deformities, that they could not appear in public without making the Parents blush that had begotten them. The eldest was crump-shouldered and wrie-necked; the second was hip-shotten and halted with both legs; the third as somewhat handsomer in Body was more ugly in face than either; the fourth (which was born at his first coming to that Palatinate) was not only hulch-backed and squint-eyed, but had one leg a great deal shorter than the other, which made her gate no less unseemly than painful. These spectacles were so odious to the haught-spirited Mieslas, that had he lived in that cruel Philosopher's days, and followed his maxims, he would have deprived those wretched creatures of the life which he had given them, for in his heart he had no kind of fatherly tenderness towards them, but considered and abhorred them as Monsters that seemed to reproach the most secret defects within himself, and cast confusion in his Face, theatning him by their ill favoured aspect with some malediction. To repeat the reviling terms wherewith he abused the innocence of his Wife, and the insolent threats wherewith he terrified her timidity, if ever she should bear him any more such Children, is far from my design, neither will my time permit it: Sometimes he swore he would repudiate her; Sometimes that he would kill her as a Source and Mother of Monsters; Sometimes he upbraided her with faults whereof he knew in his own conscience she was not guilty; Sometimes he tormented her with disdainful slight; Sometimes he would banish her his presence, and confine her to the Country; Sometimes keep her close prisoner. To be short, there was no kind of discontent but he made her feel her share of it; either Passion had so blinded his Reason, that he could not see his own absurdity, or else out of pure Malice he had a design to make her, through despair, cast herself into the Sepulchre. Notwithstanding all this ill usage, she grew with Child again, which Mieslas perceiving, he protested if she brought him forth (not only an ill-favoured Daughter, but any Daughter) that he would sacrifice to his indignation both her and her fruit; and this he sealed with such execrable oaths, and in so passionate a manner, that there was no doubt to be made but his Tongue spoke out of the abundance of his heart, and the setledness of his resolution. You may imagine in what a trance fell poor Aretuza, seeing herself condemned to Death for a thing uncertain, and which she was no way able to remedy. Piety made her resign herself totally to God's will, & submit to the inviolable decree of his Providence, knowing that those who put their trust in him never are confounded; Nevertheless fearing to tempt him, she omitted not the means of humane Prudence, God making use ofttimes of these second Causes to arrive unto that, whereto he disposeth both thoughts and actions by an incomparable sweetness.  
Among the gentlewomen that attended her, she had one (after the manner of great persons) that was her particular Favourite and Confident: and although her sweet disposition begat her the affection of them all, and that they compassionated exceedingly her misery, yet knowing too well the imbecility of her Sex for matter of keeping Secrets, she thought it the safest way not to raveale here's to any more than one, lest it being disclosed she should lose the benefit and contentment she promised herself. You may understand already, that it was to change her Child, in case she were brought to bed of a girl. Cleorite (her Trustee) took the business upon her; and having found out several Women that were to lie down about the time of her Mistress' account, she blinded them with that powerful powder of Gold which dazzles all the World, and makes people undertake any thing. What then? The Heavens favorising the design of this innocent Lady, gave birth to an earnest occasion, which drew Mieslas to Court, even as the time drew near of her delivery; Insomuch that being laid of a Daughter (as beautiful as an Angel, and whose graceful sweetness might have moved to pity the bowels of her Tyrannical Father) a Boy newly born was put in her place, so cunningly, that those (to whom Mieslas has given charge to watch his wive's actions, and give him a faithful testimony of that particular) were surprised, and happily deceived. To relate Mieslas his joy when this news was brought him, were no easy matter. If by an express command the King had not stayed him at Court, he would presently have gone to see his Son, who adding to the quality of Male (which he had so ardently desired) a beautiful face with a well-shaped body, rendered him no less satisfied than his former Daughters had given him discontent. To the fortunate birth of this Daughter (principal Subject of this merveillous History, and who by her name gives it the Title of Iphigenes, for reasons which shall be produced in their time) succeeded the happiness and strangeness of her education, which was thus.  
The King relishing the humour and the counsels of Mieslas, and considering that his wit and high courage were worthy of employment, retained him for the most part about his own person, giving him besides, some commands in his Arimes; and he acquitted himself of all his Commissions with so much prudence, fidelity and valour, that besides the great reputation he had acquired, he had purchased a vast estate, but that his humour being excessively given to vanity (which requires an expense beyond all reason) what one hand saved the other spent, the King's liberality not being sufficient to support his Prodigality, insomuch (as the Proverb saith) it was but casting money into a bottomless bag. Sometimes he fished wealth at Court, sometimes in his Government, and every where he was observed to dissipate rather than dispose of what he had. If he made any stay in his Palatinate, he would so overcharge and exact upon his Subjects, that the chief Castellains wrought with the King under hand in such sort, that upon some pretence or other he was still sent for back again to Court, to avoid the ruin of the Province, and the trouble of further complaints. During these many journeys and long absences of Mieslas, grew up the hopeful Iphigenes, whom the careful Aretuza had caused to be nursed in a County remote from Podolia, having given charge of her to an ancient and faithful servant of her Father's, whom She made Depositary or Guardian of her Child and secret. Whilst the supposed Iphigenes passed his Infancy with Aretuza, Boleslaüs (foster-father of the true one) did not only make all those that came to see her believe she was a Boy, but bred the Child likewise in the same opinion; And although her extraordinary tender Complexion seemed to accuse her of being a Girl, yet the advantage of imagining herself to be of the robuster Sex (added to the generosity which she had by Nature) made her not only incline, but delight in the sports and exercises of Boys, as if she had been as her habit spoke her.  
About two years after the birth of Iphigenes, Aretuza (who seemed to be ordained to bring forth none but females, and fill the World with that Commodity which is hard enough to keep, yet harder to put off) was brought to bed of another Daughter, who had not so rare a Beauty as to make her be much admired, nor such remarkable defects as might make her be despised. Mieslas being then at Court, and having appealed his choler by the imagination he had of being Father to a goodly Son, expressed not much distaste at the coming of this fift Daughter, especially when he heard that she was fair enough and without deformity. Aretuza made her be named Clemencia, as having experimented in her the Clemency of her Husband, of whose more courteous usage she began thence-forwards to have some hopes. Among great persons Marriages do not always accompany Baptism, but oftentimes precede it; for to ally illustrious families, to purchase a support, to maintain factions, and effect divers other such practices frequently used in Courts, Parents do sometimes promise to marry their Children before they are in Being, as many do procure benefices and charges for the Children which they shall have: whence an eminent man of our times took occasion to say, That it was no marvel if great Ladies had hard labours, since their Children were Mitred and Armed before they came out of their Wombs. Such were the thoughts of Mieslas, who was so mad for a Son, only to make him marry Rosuald's Daughter, his Ward, promising himself to obtain some spiritual Benefices for her Brother, and so make him renounce the inheritance, which he intended to draw into his own family by means of her marriage with his Son. Those that are lavish spenders, are glad to meet with Estates gotten to their hands, without any trouble or pain of theirs, for they naturally hate frugality. Mieslas who was of this humour, relied absolutely upon the wealth of Rosuald, his predecessor in the Palatinate, with the Revenues and Interest of whose Estate he splendidly maintained all his train, without touching the main stock, whereof he could not dispose without prejudice to his Wards. But because this Lamprey might in time slip out of his hand, he determined to take a Fig-leaf, that is, to contract an Alliance whereby he might gain the full possession of that mighty Estate, and make himself enter upon the labours and acquisitions of his Predecessor. And in regard that the want of years in both Parties, might give occasion to the kindred of his Wards (already much displeased that he had ravished the Gardianship out of their hands) to endeavour to render invalid this Alliance, through the default of a mutual consent, which is the principal knot of Matrimony, he obtained from the King a permission for them to marry in their Childhood, or at least to contract them so that the means could not be taken out of his possession.  
This was in agitation before Iphigenes was five years old: And Aretuza being not well pleased to see that a supposed Child should reap, before the season, that which she, as well as Mieslas, desired to preserve in their own family, taking the opportunity of a whole year's time her Husband was absent, she sent the false Iphigenes home to his Mother, and took the real one into her own tuition, giving Boleslaüs (who had brought her up from the Cradle) the conduct and government of her, to the end that he should help to conceal that which she would not have Mieslas know, and that he might see her learn all the recommendable qualities and exercises requisite for a Gentleman of such Extraction, (Permit that we speak of her hence forwards, as a Male, since her Mother will have it so, and her Father thinks her so.) Herein Aretuza was served as faithfully as she could desire in a business sso ticklish and dangerous, that she ran no less hazard than of losing her own life, if Mieslas should discover the deceit, who at his return found his Son so beautiful (for it was a little Angel) that he was quite ravished. But if his Body was agreeable, believe it, that exterior domicile lodged a Wit that surpassed many degrees any of that growth: which augmented exceedingly the Father's joy, who staying very little at home (being for the most part either visiting his Palatinate, or called to Court, or sent upon some Military expedition for defence of his Country) enjoyed but seldom and short whiles the sight of his dear Son, who was the light and delight of his Soul.  
Iphigenes had scarce yet seen eight years in the World, when he was married (God knows how) to Modestina, (Rosuald's Daughter, and Ward to Mieslas) who deserved that name for her incomparable Modesty; she was so much elder than Iphigenes, as that the Husband and Wife could make up eighteen years between them. Mieslas (being of a magnificent humour) invited the greatest part of the Nobility and Gentry of his Palatinate to the Wedding, which was celebrated with all the delights and greatest Pomp imaginable; But one Ceremony that he caused to be done, was very needless, which was to make a Venerable Matron lie betwixt the married Couple, lest they should approach each other in the Night. This Prudent caution of his would have made Aretuza laugh hearty, if her continual apprehension, that the secret would be discovered, had not held her in the same transe that kept Damocles from eating at the Tyrant of Sicilie's table. Liante, Modestina's only Brother, was destined by Mieslas to be a Churchman, to the end that by that Spiritual and levitical Circumcision, his Sister might remain sole Inheritrix of Rosuald's Estate, and the whole Patrimony come to Iphigenes. This was the Palatine's plot; but Liante being high-sirited and of a Martial disposition, took more delight in Arms, than at his Book, and was more ambitious of wearing a Sword than a Priest's Cassack. Nevertheless as Trees, which are young, may be bended which way the Master pleaseth; the same is commonly done with Children, who are like a blank paper or a piece of wax, whereon a man may make what impression he desireth. At length the Benefice was procured, the Gown ready, the poor Youth made to put it on by threaten, or by flatteries, although with a thousand repugnancies, a thousand heavy groans, and whole streams of tears. Besides his own Tyrannical authority Mieslas made use of the King's name, after the custom of many great Persons, who amuse the People with this pretext, and cover all their passions under the robe of their Sovereign, whose word & power they abuse with impunity and insolence. Thus the two Wards were bred up with his two youngest Children, Iphigenes and Clemencia; for the four precedent Daughters, like the four monstruous Creatures of Ezechiel, he had commanded to be tied to the Chariot of God's glory, (that is) had thrust them into Monasteries, there to draw the Ark; where we ill leave them, as it were, condemned to perpetual imprisonment, to see the successes that arrived, upon the theatre of the World, to the two Wards and Mieslas his two other Children, who make the four principal parts in the Music of this Narration.  
The married Couple (such as I have represented them to you) loved like Children; Liante suffered (as well as he could) the Yoke which he was forced yet to bear, but built a resolution within himself to shake it off, and fly our of his Cage as soon as Age had given him wings: Clemencia was designed by Mieslas to acquire him a Son in law of some great fortune, or at the worst, to keep her Sister's company in the Cloister. These four Children being brought up together in one house, fed at the same Table, playing and spending the time always together, lived like Brothers and Sisters with a pretty intelligence correspondent to the innocence of their age and humours. Iphigenes by the industry of his Governor Boleslaüs lived until eleven or twelve years old, in such simplicity, that he thought really he as a Boy, not conceiving that there was any other difference betwixt Male and Female than their manner of clothing. Mieslas fearing that, if he should permit his Son too soon to consummate his Marriage, that might be prejudicial to his health (seeing him of a complexion and stature more delicate than robust) appointed a Governess to overlook Modestina, fitly named Perpetua, for she was perpetually at her back, casting an Argu's eye over all her actions, lest Iphigenes at any time should steal those Rights which Husbands have privilege to challenge; But Nature had already provided other obstacles. They loved each other however very much, whether out of resemblance of their dispositions, or whether through that natural inclination which induceth us to affect those of the same Sex, as well as to be passionate for those of the contrary; Yet this affection betwixt Iphigenes and Modestina was rather friendship than love. But when Nature playing her part (which is so difficult a thing to hinder) carried Iphigenes fancy to delight in working and such Womanish amusements, busying himself very eagerly with Modestina and Clemencia; then his discreet Governor making him ashamed of such feminine employments, reclaimed his thoughts to the practice of Manly actions, and conformable to the Sex, of which the Innocent Youth yet thought himself, whose condition being more free, seemed to him far more desirable than that subjection wherein Maids and Women live. So that having an excellent wit, and a Body very active, though not robust, in every exercise whereunto he applied himself, he became an admirable proficient.  
It was nothing so in the vocation which Liante was compelled to embrace; for it is very difficult to become learned in despite of Minerva, and to garnish the Soul with the precious furniture of knowledge and Sciences, if one have not some inclination to study, this young Nobleman being wrapped up (against his will) in an Ecclesiasticks Gown, meditated nothing but exercises contrary to that habit, Arms, Horses, Dancing, Hunting, and Warlike exploits were the only delicious entertainments of his thoughts, all other discourse was irksome to his ears. This Constraint (under which He groaned, as if his Soul had been upon the Rack, and his Heart under the torture of a press) made him so melancholy and pensive, that He seemed to trail the hours of his life with regret in an unpleasant Apprenticeship. During this discontent, he hatched a secret, but furious hatred against his inhuman Guardian, considering him as the ravisher of his Estate, the Tyrant of his liberty, and the Oppressor of his free-Birth, projecting not only to escape (as soon as he could) but studying notorious revenges for reparation of the injuries he received. As for Clemencia she was yet so young, that the innocence of her years exempted her from Care or any passions of the mind; but it is with Youth as with a flower, It is no sooner budded, in a manner, but 'tis full blown, especially in Women, and chief in the Daughters of great Persons; for this Sex being naturally more subtle, they sooner do put off their Childishness than Men; besides those of high Births are brought up with such care & quaintness that their Wits are often ripe before the Season of their years requires it; whence it proceeds that they are sooner susceptible of those Touches and Ties of Affection which make young hearts seem to have past their Childhood.  
In the full ease of this sweet education Modestina modestly longed after the fruition of her beautiful, but as yet too young Husband; Her flames were so pure, and her desires so just, that (if Aretuza's deceit had not abused her expectation) me thinks her wishes might without shame appear upon these leaves, whose Paper is less white than the Candour of those passions which shall be represented in this Volume. Iphigenes in like manner beginning to reflect upon himself, and who had no other property of Marble than the whiteness, grew into a pretty kind of indignation, that (being married) he should be deprived of the possession of his Wife; and seeing himself passionately beloved of Modestina (who gave him all the civil testimonies of affection She could imagine) He must not only have renounced all Humanity, but have been altogether insensible, if he had not been moved thereat; no charm being so powerful to make one be beloved, as vehemently to love. If whiles they were at their innocent childish sports they interchanged any kind embraces or affectionate words, their discourse was soon broken by the presence of their two Argusses, Boleslaüs & Perpetua, whose thoughts (though different) arrived both at the same end, which was to hinder (that which never could be effected) the Consummation of their Marriage; Perpetua being encharged by Mieslas was very vigilant to oppose it, lest his Son's health might be prejudiced thereby; and Boleslaüs having received the Command from Aretuza, was no less circumspect for fear her deceit should be discovered. Oh who could imagine any thing but purity in the innocent kisses and tender embracements of these two lovely Creatures, who like the twin kids in the Canticles did feed among the Lilies? He that would be scandalised to see two hen-doves join their bills, the union of the blooming Rose with the Morning dew, or the beams of the Sun when he licks the Crystal of the Waters, might knit his brow at this innocent conjunction, and exercise the malicious severity of his peevish melancholy, like a snail that sullieth with is slimy train the delightful enamel of the most curious flowers.  
If the agreeable Iphigenes bore much Love to his no less loving wife, Nature by ways as secret as unknown to him, bred in him as much affection towards his brother in-law Liante, and although his sullen and discontented humour rendered him very unsociable, and by consequent less amiable, it cannot be said how he delighted in his conversation, how much he endeavoured to divert him. On the other side Liante (who looked upon Iphigenes, not as his Sister's Husband, but as his enemy's Son, as the usurper of his Fortunes, and one whose greatness was established upon him ruins; Notwithstanding all these thoughts, whereby he excited himself to Choler and Hatred like a Lion that whets his fury by scourging his sides with his own tail) could not conceive any aversion against him, whether the sweetness of his disposition charmed him; whether his kindness, his compliments, and his compliance to his humour won his heart; whether his beauty joined with his graceful deportment ravished him? or whether (which is most probable) the Sense bent his inclinations naturally towards this Object, for reasons which I had rather leave to conjecture than consign to this writing; He could not choose but love Iphigenes, although in appearance he seemed much remiss, and rather sensible of his injuries than susceptible of affection. This cold reservedness increased Iphigenes heat (according to the disposition of that sex, who are commonly most passionate for those who do care least for them) insomuch that the more Linate seemed to sight him, the more he redoubled his affection and courtesies, as if he had undertaken by the vigour of an ardent flame to dissolve the Icicles that environed his frozen Heart. At first Liante, whom Melancholy had made mistrustful, fancied that those marks of friendship were but feigned, and proceeded from some artificial Counsel or Plot to make him consent willingly to the donation of his Estate in favour of his Sister Modestina's marriage: But having perceived by the perseverance, that pur Inclination, not Interest or Pretensions, moved Iphigenes to affect him, He opened his heart more to him, complaining of the Rigour and Injustice of Mieslas, who forced him to embrace a vocation whereunto he was no way disposed. This just discontent found in the soul of Iphigenes an humour so sweetly compassionate, that although in all his discourse he observed the respect which he owed his Father, yet he freely condemned his violence, protesting to Linate, what design soever Mieslas had in marrying him with Modestina, that he would never take of his inheritance any other Portion than what he would please to give his Sister, judging it very unreasonable that a younger Sister should not only make (as she listed) a Portion for her elder, and only Brother, but deprive him absolutely of his Patrimony, in obedience to a superior Power that would carry all away by main force: That if the condition of an Ecclesiastic was not conformable to his humour, there was a possibility to satisfy him, and content likewise the greedy pretensions of the Palatine, by making a double alliance, and giving to him in marriage his Sister Clemencia, with so much of the Estate as belonged to him by his Father's death; being more willing for his own part to live a private Gentleman, remitting his Fortune to his personal valour and the point of his Sword, reserving to himself only Hope (which was Alexander's portion) than to possess unjustly fewer means with continual Remorses and internal Reproaches. These Reasons so conquered Liante's heart, that thence-forwards all his affections he thought too little for Iphigenes, whom he began to consider as his Redeemer, as one who breaking his Iron bonds was to release him out of the hands of Pharaoh, and free him from the house of Bondage.  
Covetousness is a disease which reigns but little among young unexperienced People, who think (as the Proverb goes) that the World will never be at an end with them; The desire of pleasures, liberty and vanity, torments them infinitely more; All that opposes this Torrent, seems to turn the course of their Nature, and reduce them to despair. This made Liante (building an entire confidence on his Brother-in-law Iphigenes) declare unto him that the Regret which undermined him, and led him insensibly to the grave, was not so much for the loss of his Estate (which he esteemed well bestowed, seeing it fell into so beloved hands) as to see himself bound up in a Cassock, and engaged in a manner of life which denied him the use of Arms, whereunto his inclination called him, and whither all his Ambition tended; for War was his Element, where he would rather choose to meet an honourable death, then lead a sweet, plentiful and peaceable life in the most rich and eminent Dignities of the Church, to the honours whereof he never would pretend, not perceiving himself called thereunto like Aaron, that is, by a good and Royal way. Brother (replied Iphigenes) take courage, suffer not Melancholy to or'e-master or distemper you, preserve yourself for generous enterprises; If you have a mind to take wing, and leave this nest of sluggishness, I have no less desire than you to seek in Military adventures the Laurels that grow in Mars ' s field; therefore let's go together, let's steal away some favourable Night, and enter into the harvest of glory in those places where Cowards dare not appear.  
These words revived the afflicted Liante, who was so overcome by the inevitable charms of Iphigenes' Countenance and Conversation, that he could live no more without him, being in his absence like a Marigold when the Sun hath left its Horizon. For as that flower doth close its leaves, when it is deprived of the aspect of that glorious Planet, so Liante, when separated from Iphigenes, was overwhelmed with sadness, in such sort, that He seemed to be rather a fensless Statue than a living Creature. Oh how it grieved him to be divided in his exercises from him, to whom his heart was so united by inclination! To be called to his study was death to him, but if for divertisement his Master permitted him to see the riding of the great Horse, fencing, dancing, vaulting, and other exercises (which Iphigenes learned with as much care on his Parent's part, as dexterity and aptness on his own) he applied his Spirits with such attention to them, that for a good while after he could think on nothing else: if he handled a foil, he did it with such a grace, if he Jumped, it was with such activeness, that it was easy to judge he was as much in his Element at those recreations, as he was out of it when his Spirits were tormented with the thorns of the Grammar. One time it happened that complaining to his dear Brother-in-law of the oruell Martyrdom which he was made to suffer at his Book, and how he abhorred that long robe he was compelled to wear, great drops of tears, like so many Pearls, ran down his face from the Orient of his Eyes: This sight so mollified the tender heart of Iphigenes (who was of a Sex that hath tears at command) that mingling his with Liante's, he fell on his face, and casting his arms about his neck, he gave him many loving, yet innocent embraces, which Liante received with such motions of joy and sweet delight, as surpass the terms of any expression; then with an incomparable harmlessness they interchanged some kisses, wherein the malignity of Nature put some difference by certain ardours, which are not found in those that pass betwixt persons of the same sex, both of them feeling themselves transported with a certain pleasure and ravishment, whereof the Cause was yet unknown to them, but which proceeded from the treachery of Love, disguised under the appearance of Brotherly Friendship.  
Boleslaüs Seeing that this intimacy increased more and more betwixt the two Brothers, was afraid lest those Caresses and familiarity should pass to such terms as might discover to Iphigenes that of which (through his industry and vigilancy) He was yet ignorant concerning himself. Aretuza never saw them together without unspeakable heart-beating & trembling, for she thought her husband would never pardon her, if he should come to the knowledge of the deceit, whereby she had abused and amused him so long time; Besides she feared lest Iphigenes honour might be interessed through Ignorance, though not Immodesty. Insomuch by this perplexity of thoughts her Mind did feel no less convulsions and pangs, than a Woman in travel endureth in her Body. Whilst she was in this trouble, the Union of the two Brother's hearts grew to such a perfection, that it seemed as if there had been but one Soul in their two Bodies; the same No, and the same Yea coming at the same instant out of their Mouths. You could never see the one without the other, if they were separated; their parting was never without tears. Modestina was already become in a manner nothing with Iphigenes in comparison of Liante, and if she had been of a jealous disposition, she had cause enough to believe that her Brother withdrew the affection of her sweet Husband from her, but she imputed that rather to Childishness then any thing else, imagining that assoon as Iphigenes was advanced somewhat more towards Manhood, she should easily turn the course of his inclinations.  
Iphigenes in mean time having opened Liante's eyes for his Sister Clemencia, was not contented to have put, or to have begun to put the fire into his breast, if he conveyed not all the flame into his Sister's heart, to whom he gave such a Character of the virtues, gracefulness and perfections of his dear Liante, that in short time that spark grew to so furious a blaze, that it was near reducing her to ashes; He had so framed the way to her Mind, that she was taken on a sudden, according to the Nature of certain subtle fire which takes sooner and more fiercely in green wood than in dry, and whose first burning is always the most violent. There was no comparison betwixt Clemeneia's passion and Liante's, for he possessed far more attractive qualities to make him be beloved of her, than she had to captivate his liberty: Nevertheless Love being an Appetite which tends to the production of its like, it is no wonder (as a Torch that's burning doth easily communicate its light to one that's out) if Love first begets another Love in the heart beloved, since to wish well doth almost of necessity challenge a reciprocal well-wishing. The Paleness, which soon took up its seat on Clementia's cheeks; The looks, messengers of her passions, which sent glances as suppliants to Liante's eyes; The delight she seemed to receive in his conversation; The regret she felt for his absence; The fear of discontenting him; The desire of pleasing him, and the exceeding contentment she expressed in speaking of him; All these pretty Lovesymptomes spoke her somewhat more than Child, and bringing her near Womanhood, changed the liberty of her Innocence into a Bondage, whose chains did seem so golden and so sweet to her, that she thought she never had tasted any felicity, but since the time she had rendered herself a prey to the amiable Liante's charms.  
This Passion passing through her ear into her heart, & being engraven by the tongue of Iphigenes, as with an instrument of flame, in the profoundest of her thoughts, devoured or consumed her so, that she was ready to die of the wound, if her kind Brother (who had kindled the fire) had not applied the remedy, by assuring her of the reciprocal affection of him whom he had persuaded her to love. Liante being acquainted herewith by Iphigenes (ingenious to hinder his own advantages) began by the gate of his Interest to receive some inclinations for Clemencia, conceiving that might be a means for him to recover his Estate, and procure Honours: Afterwards seeing her so full of affection, that her toomuch loving cast her into a languishing for him, he answered her desires more out of Compassion than Passion, or rather for Pity than Affection: for indeed she had more sweetness in her dispositions to mollify, than Beauty in her face to attract the heart of the brave Liante. But the Conduct of these Amoretta's required more judgement and discretion than the small experience of such tender years could promise; They were to deceive so many eyes that pried incessantly into their actions, that it was too hard a task, Love (like a fire) being difficult to be kept hid within the Bosom; And yet if any one perceived the least of this intelligence, all's lost, all these Designs will vanish into smoke, all these Projects fly away with the wind. Nevertheless Iphigenes had the dexterity to manage this business with such circumspection, Liante had learned to counterfeit with such subtility, and Clemencia (assured of her Lover's mutual flame) could dissemble with so much constancy (that sex having a great empire over themselves when there is a necessity of feigning) that they practised for a good while, this commerce of Love, without discovering but very weak sparkles of their fire. What cannot this Passion do when it refineth and subtilizeth thus such young Souls! Observe but how it brings to School again all the Prudence of hoary heads.  
Modestina and Clemencia had but one Governess, but the two Brothers-in-law had several Conductors, in regard they were applied to different exercises; yet neither Liante's Master, nor Perpetua perceived any thing of this secret correspondence betwixt Clemencia and the intended Clergyman; so attentive was she to hinder Iphigenes and Modestina's private communication, and so handsomely did Liante with his ordinary sadness hid from his Overseer his affectionate pretensions. Only Boleslaüs, who watching like a Dragon, that never shuts his eyes, to preserve the secret of Iphigenes, observed that the great familiarity 'twixt him and Liante, put in evident danger of being revealed all the Mystery which he had till then concealed with so much care; and fearing lest Liante rather than Modestina should discover what kind of man Iphigenes was, had a serious conference thereupon with Aretuza, who jumping with his opinion, thought it most expedient to single out Iphigenes, and declare unto her all the passages of her birth and education, to the end that seeing herself obliged under pain of losing her life (which punishment she could not escape by discovering herself, no more than Aretuza) to keep this secret, and so to demean herself, that living with the liberty of Males, She might no way blemish the honour of her sex: Necessity (which is a very harsh Mistress) made them embrace his resolution, and it was no sooner concluded than put in execution.  
To tell you the astonishment that seized Iphigenes at the recital of his own story, would be too difficult an enterprise; He thought that he either dreamt, or was enchanted, and hardly could give credit to his ears and eyes. The joy that the Maidens had or might have received, being transformed into Men (as some Histories make mention) may make us conceive some shadow of that sadness, which struck Iphigenes heart, when he saw himself fallen from that degree of glory, whereunto he fancied the condition of being a Man, might have raised him. He could hardly refrain from falling out with those that had unseeled his eyes with the Medicine of their advertisement, and who had dispossessed him (like Trasimenes cured of his folly) of that sweet error which contented him. He apprehended to be reduced to that, almost servile, Subjection of the female Sex, having by Custom made Nature of the liberty which Men enjoy. What? shall this Amazon change her Sword and Lance for a Needle and a Distaff? shall she leave so many noble Exercises, wherein her generous Spirit took such pleasure, to sit constantly in a Chamber, tricking up herself, and consulting with her looking-glasses how to ensnare & inflame lover's heart's? What? in stead of having the Empire and command over Men, shall she be reform to the submission and obedience, that is the only portion and property of Women? No, such a resolution is less supportable than death. Having been bred, the beginning of her days, like a Man, she will end them like a Soldier, and seek in the bed of Honour an heroic Death, since she hath lost the hope of a happy life. But this resolution is too extreme; there's a remedy for every thing but dying.  
Aretuza flattered, and (as a Mother) conjured her shee-Son not to disclose himself. Boleslaüs, to second her, beseeched him to have pity on his grey hairs, and not to hasten his journey to the grave, by paying with too unworthy an ingratitude his faithful services, representing that upon him (who had been the Manager and Concealer of that Deceit) Mieslas would chief discharge the burden of his fury, if that Mystery should come to his knowledge. Moreover, that the advertisement they gave him, was not to oblige him to change neither manner of life nor habit, or to leave the exercises of Chivalry, wherein his Courage and Activity gained the admiration of every one: But quite contrary they desired him to continue them with more eagerness, and to feign himself to be a Man the more, the less he knew it. That Time might produce some expedient means to gain his father's heart wihtout hazarding the lives of so many persons, and in stead of Modestina (who could not be his wife, by reason of those obstacles which nature had interposed) he might lawfully enjoy Liante as a Husband, so that some one of their Children bore the Name and Arms of Mieslas, whereby his intention would not be altogether frustrated in the Alliance which he projected with the house of Rosuald.  
Judge how great the adunatages of Love are above the Sense of Friendship. This last Clause which engendered some Hope in Iphigenes to see herself united by marriage to the beloved Liante, effaced almost in an instant that incomparable sorrow that dejected her at first, seeing herself fallen from a quality so honourable and adunatagious, as that of Man. Insomuch that immediately changing the Love she bare Modestina into a pure Friendship, and the entire Friendship she had contracted with Liante, into a fervent Love, but virtuous, (since that it justified itself by the design of a chaste Matrimony;) she personated a Man better than ever, betook herself to her Military execises again with more eagerness, & looking upon Liante with other eyes than of a Brother-in-law, She treated him with more reservedness, deducting somewhat from the liberty of a Man, to add to the moderation of a Virgin, to whom Pudicity ought to be more precious than Life. O how much did she repent her possessing Clemencia with so much Love for Liante, whereby she had made her Sister her Rival, and kindled a fire which she ought rather to have quenched, and which thence-forwards she promised herself to smother by all the industry her invention could suggest. As for Modestina (whose friendship obliged her to a reciprocal affection) she feigned to be more passionate for her than ever, and the better to act the Husband, She made a show of desiring with much ardour the possession of her wife, being by that time near fifteen years of age.  
Perpetua wrote to Mieslas (then at Court) that she should be constrained to suffer, what she could no longer hinder, and that if Iphigenes would make use of Modestina as her Husband, Modestina had no less desire to serve him as his Wife. Mieslas who had desired nothing more than the accomplishment of that marriage, out of an odd fantastical humour would not consent to the Consummation, but delayed it from day to day until his return into Podolia. But being not able to obtain leave from the King (who finding him very fit for the managing great affairs, had every day some new employment for him) He bethought himself to send for his Son to the Court, (which is the Theatre of young Nobility,) where he would present him to the King, and make him appear according to his quality. This Command somewhat troubled Aretuza at the first; but Boleslaüs quickly persuaded her to condescend to that which she could not oppose, promising her to watch so carefully over the deportments of his Nursling, that she should receive neither reproach nor discontentment.  
This news was diversely received among our yvong Lovers, all their four hearts did feel at the same instant very different assualts. For Modestina pressed with the just impatiences of a marriageable Virgin, that expects till the maturity of a too-tender husband makes her both Wife and Mother, could not endure to thik of losing the sight of her Angel like husband, who was more the life of her Soul, than her Soul the life of her Body. To register her Sighs, her Groans, and her Tears, were no more easy than to number the puffs of wind in Autumn, the parching minutes of Summer, and the drops of rain in Winter. How Modest soever she was in heart, as well as by name, her exceeding Love turning to Folly, and that Folly into Rage and Despair, made her commit Immodesties, which could be excused by nothing but the qualities of Wife and Lover. Iphigenes seeing her in this condition, so deplorable, that it seemed the stroke of Death had been more favourable to her, than to see herself deprived of the light of his eyes, and plunged in the darkness of the Eclipse of that detested Absence, was touched with such tender resentments of sorrow, that He had much ado by falling in a Trance to keep himself from discovering that in his body there was a womanish weakness hidden under the habit of a Man.  
But this affection of compassion was nothing in comparison of the torment which she felt, when she came to think of her Separation from Liante: For since she had the knowledge of herself, having put (as it were) a bar betwixt those familiarities and privacies with him that might have hurt, or any way blemished her honour, by this restriction her smart was become more painful, and the fire of her breast (like that in a narrow furnace) was rendered the more ardent, the more it was suppressed. All her fear was, that the ignorance of her Sex, wherein She must leave Liante, and the continual presence of Clemencia, in whose affection She had engaged him, with the help of her absence, would ravish from her that heart, which was the aim of all her pretensions, & the golden Fleece whereunto aspired her most desired Conquests. Clemencia (who remained at home with no less passion for Liante, than Iphigenes carried with her to Court, yet covered the Coals of her desire with the ashes of Discretion & Silence) was in an extreme pain for the absence of her Brother, in whom She lost a faithful interpreter of her thoughts: Yet promising herself to supply that want with the Pen, which should serve to convey her conceptions to him, and likewise his to her, She was the less afflicted for his departure.  
But the grief of the disconsolate Liante, was not so easily pacified; for feeling himself bound to Iphigenes with bonds which he could not comprehend, and such strong ones as could not be broken, he did like the Cimmerians, who cry and groan when the Sun leaves their Country, as if theywere never to see it any more: He felt his very bowels rend within him at this Separation: And as Rebecca, who had so much desired to be a Mother, repent her of her wish when She felt the pains that her two Children struggling together in her womb did make her suffer: So Liante could almost have wished that he had never seen, nor loved Iphigenes, since that sweet Friendship produced so cruel a torment. And as those who are troubled with worms, which engender in the head or th' Entrails, endure strange indispositions, without knowing the cause that doth afflict them; So this young Gentleman feeling that Viper, Love, which gnawed his heart under the appearance of Friendship, did suffer a far more penetrating smart for his being parted from that beloved Object, than any one is accustomed to feel for the absence of a friend. For Friendship doth kindle in the Soul a fire more sober and moderate than Love, whose flames are more fierce and painful. Was it not enough (said he within himself) that we were separated in conditions and exercises, without dividing by such a distance those whose hearts are so united, that they are as the Unity itself? To whom shall I have recourse hence-forwards in my discontents? Who shall selace me in my sadnesses? Who shall support and revive my decayed hopes? O my dear Brother, you are my only stay, my second Soul, the light of mine Eyes; Absent from you, I shall never see the day more without pain; and the life (if it may be called life) that I shall lead, will be a continual punishment to me. Yet if I might be but suffered to follow you, I should esteem myself too happy; but I am born under too unfortunate a Planet, to be otherwise than persecuted to the extremity by Disasters. Would to God there were no other obstacle than my passlng over all the interest I pretend in my Father's Estate, according to the covetous pretensions of Mieslas, and that I might enjoy the felicity but to wait on you as your servant; Indeed I prefer the meanest condition about your person before all the riches of the Earth, that sweet servitude before any Liberty. O Mieslas! why cannot you read my thoughts? why can you not see my intentions? I do not think you so void of Humanity, as to keep me any longer in this tortune, if you knew my heart.  
These Complaints recall to my remembrance the fable of the contestation betwixt the Sun and Boreas, which should first make the Traveller put off his Cloak; at last the one did by the gentle heat of his rays, what the other could not accomplish with his impetuous blustering. The Poets have reason to feign, and their cozen-germans the Painters, to picture Love naked, since his Power is far more prevalent to make a man strip himself of his Estate than are Cruelty and Rigour. But if I should stand to relate all the discourses of these young Lovers, I should never get out of this Farewell. To conclude, they were torn by Violence out of each other's Arms, and the streams that ran from all their Eyes, did make a little Ocean of Tears, yet this deluge could not drown all their Sorrows. I could borrow some pencils of the Poets to give the Colours to this Departure, were I not unwilling to retard the greedy curiosity of the Reader, who desires to be speedily informed of the good and evil adventures of Iphigenes.   

The second Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
The Character of Iphigenes: His Reception at the Court. His Favour with the King and Queen. The Envy and unworthiness of Augustus the Lithuanian: His Banishment from the Court. The Princess Respicia's affection to Iphigenes: Her Policy to obtain her Desires, and dissolve the Marriage betwixt Iphigenes and Modestina. Modestina's complaints against the Court-Ladie's unjust attempts to bereave her of her beloved Husband. Mieslas' endeavours to persuade Iphigenes to repudiate Modestina in favour of the Princess Respicia's propositions. Iphigenes' answer, and deportment towards Respicia. The Jealousy of Stanislas Palatine of Uratislau, and his plot against Iphigenes.  
IPHIGENES was no sooner arrived at the Court, with an equipage suitable to the humour and quality of his Father, but the Eyes of all the Courtiers and Ladies were fixed upon this new Sun, which rising upon the Horizon of that Climate, filled it with the splendour of his Rays, casting such fiery glances, and so penetrating a light, that it was hard for any (if not blind) to avoid the scorching of his presence. The Spring is not adorned with so many flowers, nor Titan's glorious Orb with so many beams, as he displayed Beauties and attractive Graces: All his Actions, his looks, his words, his deportments, his exercises, were as many Charms that enchanted the hearts of all those that did contemplate him. The attribute of Beautiful was presently given him by the common consent of both Gentlemen and Ladies, and he was usually called The beautiful Podolian. To see him and to be in love with him were two things that followed each other, as the Lightning and Thunder are observed to do: And those that knew him but by reputation only cherished his Memory, for besides his dexterity in those Exercifes, which Courtiers hold for virtues, as Singing, Dancing, Vaulting, Managing a horse with activity and a grace, handling well his Arms, and having a good Garb, His Language was so smooth, his Disposition so sweet, his Compliments so endearing, his Conversation so winning (especially amongst the Ladies) his Modesty so remarkable, his Chastity, so extraordinary in a Courtier, his Discretion so exquisite, his Courage so undaunted, his Tongue so moderate, his Gesture so well composed, his Generosity so splendid, his Liberality so magnificent, such Decency in his apparel, a Sternness in his Armour, so sweetly fierce, that it seemed as if Venus having taken possession of his Face, and Mars of his Heart, and the Ferocity of the one, being tempered with the Gentleness of the other, had both conspired to give him the Empire over all hearts either by Force or Love. It cannot be imagined what ravage his beautiful face made in the lady's breasts, every one took him for an Angel descended from Heaven to set on fire all the daughters of Men; and what was most of all admired, was, to see, that this glorious Star, like the Sun, engendered a thousand flames, without having in himself, or (at least) without making show of any degree of heat, giving what he had not (that is) Love.  
There was during the winter (which is extremely rigorous in Polonia) a new disease so universally catching, that hardly any body did escape its malignity, it was called there the COKELUCHE: And in regard there were very few Ladies at Court that had not particular inclinations for Iphigenes, and that spoke not of him in terms of admiration, a Wit of the Times called him the COKELUCHE of the Court. To this purpose a certain Lady said, That to be in love with him was a thing indispensable: Another answered a Gentleman that seemed to wonder at the so general passions for this young Nobleman, saying, I believe you are either without Heart or Eyes. He was the Rock where their minds suffered shipwreck, few going with curiosity towards this Angelical Object, but returned with a wound, or at least with some distemper. How many young Ladies longed he were their husband! how many Fathers and Mothers desired him for their Son-in-law! When it was known that Mieslas had already married him to Modestina, what sorrow was expressed! how many great and more advantageous matches were offered him, which made the greedy Father oft repent his hastiness, and he grew so proud to see his Son so well beloved, and so highly esteemed, that he swum in satisfaction. And indeed he that will fancy a most exquisite feminine beauty, a delicate white complexion, sweetly mixed with a lovely red, lively and sparkling Eyes, hair like Silk, and the rest of those attractions that accompany that perfection which an Ancient called an agreeable Tyranny, and all this at the age of fifteen or sixteen years under a man's habit (who cannot have so little beauty but 'tis much for that Sex) will find nothing strange of all that hath been said.  
Oh! how could I extend this History if I should engage my Pen to the recital of the several evenements that befell him upon this Account! That specious form (which seemed to have been given him expressly to ruinated the pudicity of the most determinate and severe preservers of their honour) how many assaults and strange attempts did it make him suffer from those Ladies that thought him of a contrary Sex! But I fear in publishing the impudence of those shameless Souls, to call the bashful blood into more modest Faces, who cannot endure any thing, I will not say of Dishonesty (for I should disclaim my Pen if it were tainted with any impure Relation) but only tending to wantonness. The Wits of the Court, whose invention is very pregnant in such occurrences, know already more than I am able to imagine: others that are more simple shall remain (by my consent) in the commendable ignorance of such malicious practices.  
Whilst these inconsiderate Lovers try in vain to draw into their Nets him who hath caught their Hearts, and who takes pleasure in seeing them burn, like Flies, at the Fire of his eyes, He doth like those Engineers, who cast their artificial fires all about, without receiving any damage in their own persons; or like those Fountaineers, who showing curious Water-works and Grotta's, where a thousand little Pipes cast water on every side, set themselves in some known place where they remain dry, whilst every one else is wetted to the skin. And as the secure Shepherds standing to feed their flocks upon some eminent Hills near the Seaside, behold from those firm and solid heights the tossing and agitation of Ships beaten with stormy weather: So did He contemplate, in the weakness of those spirits, so passionately enamoured of him, the imbecility of a Sex, which bred in him rather Pity than Envy, and Compassion rather than Love. It was not on that side that He feared being surprised, his natural impotency rendering him most potent to resist all those temptations. On the other side the attractive graces displayed in the countenances of so many brave Cavaliers (wherewith the Court was as glittering as the Heaven is with Stars in a clear night) moved him as little; An honourable desire of glory and the preservation of his chastity being a powerful bridle against the assaults and surprises of the Sense; besides that his heart was so prepossessed with love for Liante, that there was no room left to place any other Object: Moreover his humour was so averse to vice and riotous deboshing (which he saw was the continual practice of dissolute companions) that their excesses made him rather shun than follow them, rather abhor the lewdness of their deportments, than fancy the handsomeness of their persons; pitying rather than envying their conditions: whereas on the contrary his virtue and handsomeness were more envied than pitied by them. Yea, for as the Cantharideses, those stinking and venomous Flies, do not settle but upon the most delicate Flowers; So those young Courtiers were grown mischievously jealous, because this new comer with his eminent beauty accompanied with sweet dispositions, and divers recommendable parts, came to do them the same affront as the Sun doth every morning to the meaner lights of Heaven, and ravished from them the hearts of all the Ladies, from whom they could no more receive any countenance, but slights. And, jealousy being a fire, which happening to kindle in an human soul, hindereth it (by reason of the vapours which it excites) from seeing the Sun of reason, they conspired all together against Iphigenes, and plotted how to engage him in several quarrels.  
Already divers wicked Designs were laid to entrap his innocence, but the Preserver of the virtuous still delivered him: for the Courtiers (more changeable than the Sea or the Moon, accommodating themselves to the humour of the Times, more than the Fish, called the Polypus, doth to the colour of the Rocks where it fastens) have no other rule for their Hatred, or their Love, than their interest, and the measure of this Interest is the Humour of their Prince. Although those who are most in the King's favour, are commonly the object of the People's hatred; yet the dissembling complacency of the Court obligeth those, who follow its wind and tide, to applaud those whom the Sovereign affects, notwithstanding they hate them in their hearts, or at least do not esteem them. Beauty accompanied with a comely carriage is a Letter of admission, which openeth the Cabinet and Heart of Kings; for they are but Men as well as others, and the more subject to passions because elevated to an higher degree of Eminence, by the same reason that the tallest Cedars suffer most by the wind's impetuousity, and the loftiest Towers feel oftenest the effects of Thunder and Lightning. And as the Elephants may be most easily wounded in the flank, which is the tenderest part in their unwieldy bodies (as several examples witness:) so great Persons are not where so weak, nor so easily to be surprised by any thing as by passinate affections, this being their general defect. And indeed it were a difficult matter for those, who are beloved (I should rather say) served, adored and admired of so many deserving persons as are still about them, not to be sweetly enforced to render themselves to the particular affection of some one; whence it follows that Favour is the inseparable shadow of Royalty. For if the Sun, that lamp of the Universe, which from his Heavenly Chariot sees all things upon Earth, looks with another eye (amongst the flowers of a Garden-plot) upon the Marigold, and all other yellow flowers, which seem to be decked with the Gold of is splendent Rays, and by that yellow livery do testify the love they bear that glorious Luminary. So Kings who are the light of the World, and the Suns of the Earth, since 'tis from them that the most noble persons of a State do borrow their lustre, although they do extend their paternal care to all their subjects, as fathers of their People; yet in this general solicitude they apply their Eyes and Ears to some particular servants, who by that means get ground in the territory of their hearts, and do rule the spirits of their Kings by the sweetness of friendship, as the Kings by the force of authority do reign over the Provinces under their subjection. And above all, Beauty hath the property to establish her Empire with such polite and acquaint indeerments, that whereas all other subjection is irksome, here Liberty is odious, and Chains amiable, every one contributing to bring himself into this traldom: And how vainglorious soever it be, it cannot exact from the humility and submission of its adorers such homages as those that are rendered to it by voluntary Sacrifices; thousands fall at its right hand, ten thousands at its left, all at its feet, as being the most visible Ray of the Divinity upon Earth.  
It was this Beauty, seated in Iphigenes countenance as on a Throne of Ivory, that framed his way, by the eyes, into the King's affection. And if the Iron, though heavy and insensible, and a Straw, that is light and without reason, do by a natural inclination turn and make towards the Loadstone and Amber; if the Loadstone that hath touched Iron, doth communicate unto it that secret property of standing always towards the Antarctic Pole; if the Vines love the shadow of Olive Trees, and the other Fish's delight to follow the Dolphin, without any other knowledge than the force of instinct: Who can deny that Man, whose senses are inclined to evil from the beginning, may be carried away by Concupiscence, being alured and sometimes drawn and ravished by the objects? That monstrous vice, the abortive of Nature and Hell, which diffames the Oriental and the Southern parts, is hardly known in the Occidental and Septentrional Regions; at least if it be frequent there, it is very rare here; if there it be a vulgar and popular Malady, here it seems to infect none but great persons. I am not the only Man that esteems Courts to be the receptacles of Iniquity, the theatres of Licentiousness as well as of Vanity, the Schools of Dissolution and Riot; for since Piety is excluded thence, according to the saying of an Ancient Writer, if the shades of Impiety reign there, in the place of that Light, what can one imagine to be practised there, but the deeds of Darkness? Therefore I shall not stick to say, that Asmodeus (that unclean spirit which suggests to animal Creatures the brutal desires of the flesh, whom the Pagans and Poets made a Deity under the name of the Goddess of Cyprus Son) cast, like another Sinon into Troy, such Grecian fires into the sulphurous hearts of the Courtiers, that divers of them beholding with too much attention the perfections of Iphigenes, and thinking him of a Sex conformable to his habit, entertained such base desires as ought not to enter into any thought, much less be repeated. Thereupon some of them to accomplish their execrable pretensions, used means to seduce the young Gentleman to the licentious frequentation of lose Women; thereby (one vice calling on another) to draw him into more enormous abominations.  
Here I might raise the trophy of our young Gallant's chastity with lines that would deserve to be exempted from Oblivion: But because the multitude of weak spirits, as well as that of the ill-advised, exceeds the number of the strong and prudent, not to offend the infirmity of those, we will wean the ability of these. For as the light of the Sun is injurious to certain Eyes; So the truth is not always well received by all discreet hearers. But to believe that such horrible Imaginations could harbour in the King's Breast, I should hold it a blasphemy to think it, yet they are Mortals environed with frailties, and subject to failings: And who knows if any secret Malignity made the King conjecture, that under Iphigenes clothes was something more than Man? however his affection never went beyond the limits reserved to Moesty. But who can hinder Detraction (which carries the venom of Asps upon the lips) from spreading its poison upon the purest innocence? Persons which are seated in the highest place upon the World's Theatre, are commonly the subjects of obloquys, as the Butts and Blanks of Calumny.  
The King, besides the merits of Mieslas, and the remembrance of his former services, saw joined with a ravishing presence such remarkable virtues and perfections in his Son, that as a just, prudent and liberal Prince, he could do no less than show the esteem he made of so many rare qualities, which rendered him the spectacle and marvel of his Court. And as this life is a perpetual Game, full of contrarieties and vicissitudes, the disgrace and falling of one being the advantage and raising of another; as in Heaven when some Stars rise upon the Horizon, others at the same time set; when some are seen, others are hid, it being impossible that all should appear to us at once: So at the Court several Favourites are incompatible, they strive to thrust each other out of their Prince's affection. This drew much envy and many quarrels upon the brave Iphigenes, but in all these contestations He came off with such good success and signs of courage, that as the files do polish and smooth the Iron by biting it, and the waters of the Deluge did raise the Ark by falling upon it; so these malicious oppositions did increase the value and reputation of Iphigenes. Insomuch that the King, whose solid Judgement was able perfectly to distinguish the Precious from the Vile, and knew what extreme difference there was betwixt the Merit of that virtuous Gentleman, and the Demerits of so many others of his age (who lost themselves in gaming and deboistness) did an act worthy of so great a Prince to seat his favour in so good a place, withdrawing it from those who had not purchased his countenance by Desert but Art, imitating those Women that paint, who make borrowed and supposed Beauties be beloved in them, rather than Natural.  
This transported with a desperate fury a young Nobleman, named Augustus, Son to the Palatine of Vilne in Lithuania. He having been bred Page to the King, had found the means so to insinuate himself into His majesty's favour, that he had obtained a great Estate, of his gift, and a considerable charge in the Court, whereby he was become so haughty and insolent, that his humour was insupportable. Seeing then that Iphigenes entering into Grace was likely to cause his Ruin, and that the King turning his Eyes from him, and fixing them on this new Object, he should be supplanted; there was no sort of Bravadoes and Treacheries that he left unattempted to provoke the patience of our innocent Cavalier: But his Discretion augmenting the Arrogance of the Lithuanian, whose abuses drew one day some language from Iphigenes mouth, which gave him to understand that he feared his Biting no more than his Barking. His frowns and threats, (lightning which presaged a tempest near at hand) were cause that the King interposing his Authority, cut off this Contestation in the root, by commanding Augustus to contain himself within the bounds of his devoir, or quit the Court. This put him into an excessive rage, judging by this Sovereign Oracle, which way the King's Heart inclined. Envy which murthereth low spirits, cruelly gnawed this Lithuanian's; but because this vice is so ridiculous, that it dares not show itself, he bitten his bridle in silence, feeling his heart pierced with a thousand pricks, to see that his Competitor, high in the King's favour, acquired every day new honours, and that, (as when a precious balsam is spilt) the good odour of his reputation dilated itself into all parts. Iphigenes was never mentioned but with terms of high commendation, as not seen without astonishment. If his Face was the glory and delight of those Eyes that beheld him, his Actions full of virtue and winning gracefulness purhcased him the quality (so rare in this age) not only of Irreprehensible, but of the most accomplished of Gentlemen. Hereupon Envy, who is sick at other men's well being, made Augustus feel such torment in his mind, as none of all those invented by the barbarous Tyrants mentioned in Histories could parallel. A just Vice in the unjust hatred it bears to Virtue, since it serves to torture him that gives it admittance into his soul. But the mischief is, that as the winds enclosed a long time within the bowels of the Earth, at length burst out with horrible Eart quakes that disjoin the frame of nature: So the furies of Envy suppressed a good while with silence, most commonly disclose themselves all at once by most tragical successes.  
In all honourable Exercises wherein young Gentlemen use to show their activity and skill, Iphigenes always had the better. There were no Rings but for his Courses, so exactly could he command his Horse and Lance; At the tiltings his graceful garb ravished all the spectators; At dance there were no Eyes but for him. And as the King's bountry to him was very great, his Expenses, Sumptuousness, Liberality and Magnificence increased proportionably; No body was so handsomely dressed, so richly attired, so well attended, so well mounted, so well accompanied as he, and all this with so much judgement that it rendered his pomp doubly admirable. He was no Gamester at all, neither was he guilty of running into any unnecessary Excesses, by which means he was the abler to appear with the Nobler train. Mieslas ravished with the Virtues and prudent Conduct of his Son, became more reserved and moderate in his expenses, imitating him as much as might be possible; and although his credit was great with the King, it was nothing in comparison of his Son's; For without entering into the quality of importunate (being very circumspect in managing his Master's favour) He always received of the King more than he demanded, containing himself within the compass of what he might or ought to do, if he had been a greedy seeker of his own advantage: But as the Shadow follows those that fly it, so doth Prosperity those that look not after it; In less than one year's time the King gave him a whole County with some Offices of Castellains, and destined him also for a Palatinate, assoon as Age had furnished him with Experience and Authority requisite. If Fathers were susceptible of Jealousy against their Children, Mieslas had reason enough to conceive some against his Son, seeing the rarity of his beauty and discretion had thrust into his Hands in an instant a Fortune, which his long services could not attain; (but it is not with her as with a Goal, where those that run fastest come the soon at it:) He was very glad to be surmounted in that by Iphignes, after the custom of most Parents, who dear nothing more than to see their Children higher and more advanced in the World than themselves.  
The Queen, a virtuous and wise Princess, and who saw but with the King her Husband's Eyes, could not but esteem him whom she saw His Majesty so highly prize, and cherish, and who possessed so great a share in his Favour. For it is not seldom seen in Courts that Favourites have more power in effect, though not so much state in appearance, than the Queens, and that to accomplish their desires in some cases, these are glad to have recourse to their mediation. In such a condition a man had need have a good brain not to be made drunk with the fuming vapours of Favour and a strong sight, not to be dazzled with the splendour of so great a Light: for what Soul is there so reserved that would not feel itself puffed up, at least somewhat more than glad, at such a height of Fortune, as rendereth in some sort inferior, a person who acknowledgeth no Superior but God? It was in this particular that Iphigenes made chief appear the Excellency of his Wisdom, demeaning himself with such moderation and humility towards the Queen, that he was in a no less degree of favour with her than with the King, so far forth as to receive many considerable presents from her hand, not without some murmuring of the Ladies about her person, who wondered to see her bestow such liberalities upon a Man, contrary to her custom, and in their opinion, somewhat beyond Decency. But she conforming herself to her Husband's humour, did only show by this imitation how much she honoured the King, seeing it was enough that He esteemed any one, to make her show him the like respect and Countenance. Indeed it is probable, if she had known all the mystery, or if the unbridled lusts of the orientals could fall into the imagination of the septentrionals, that Jealousy might have possessed her with some ill thoughts of Iphigenes. But the incomparable Chastity and Modesty that appeared in all his proceed, begat him so admirable an Opinion, that all the Men in the Court (and indeed without danger) would freely have trusted all their Wives to his keeping, as if he had been the Prince of the grand Signor's Eunuches. There was never seen a Youth so discreet, a Beauty so chaste, a Favourite so courteous, a Greatness so affable, a Fortune so reserved, an Elevation so moderate, a great Courage so humble, a Generosity so judicious; He was the Spectacle of astonishment, the Miracle of Grace, the Ornament of Nature, the Glory of his Country, the Joy of those that had dependence on him, the Honour of his Lineage, and we may add the Flower of Polonia, the Eye of the Court, the Orient of Virtues, and the Occident of Vice.  
At all the Justs and Tournaments made for public rejoicings, where Iphigenes was of the answering Party, (and always Conqueror) Augustus who studied nothing more than to meet with some occasion to do him an affront or mischief, made this Opportunity the Bawd of his base Design, like those Traitors who in a Salve of Infantry at a Training (where they should use none but Powder) do charge their Muskets with Bullets, to shoot at some particular Enemies. For where's all Gentlemen did run with but slight Arms, because their Lances were only pegged purposely that they might break in pieces at the least touch, that exercise, having no other end than to delight the Spectators; Augustus being to run against Iphigenes furnished himself with a Lance plated with Iron and ground very sharp, intending to pierce him through, or at least to make him so rudely measure the ground with his Body that he should serve for a laughingstock to all that saw him. But the Powers who love Justice, hate Iniquity, and above all do abhor Traitors, turned this malicious desire upon Augustus own head; For, missing his Rest his Lance slided along the smooth guilded Arms of his Adversary, who not failing of his aim, broke his all to shivers with a very becoming grace; but one of the splinters falling with the point downwards pierced Augustus' thigh, which put him to an intolerable pain. The furious Lithuanian seeing his blood, was enraged with Choler that he was hurt, and no less mad for Spite that he had missed his thrust; Insomuch that without considering that his wound proceeded from Accident and not from Iphigenes will, as if he had been highly offended in his honour, he returned with full career, his Sword drawn, to revenge that affront upon Iphigenes; who protesting innocence, and declaring that he was sorry for that chance, he cried out to him to draw or he would kill him, vomiting against him a thousand injurious reproaches not becoming the mouth of a Cavalier. Iphigenes who was not used to such caresses, put himself in a posture to receive him and make him feel the punishment of his Arrogance. Augustus came full speed with his Sword's point towards Iphigenes to run him through, or bear him to the ground; But Iphigenes, who had more sleight than strength, putting by that thrust, charged him so home, that of a furious Assailant he had enough to do to prove himself a good Defendant. The King, who with the Queen was present at this show, seeing this Quarrel begun by Augustus, who was the Aggressor, commanded them to give over fight. But the enraged Lithuanian refused, saying, the King was Master of his Estate and Life, not of his Honour, which he fancied was then highly interessed. This proud reply so incensed the King, that he commanded his Guards to cut him in pieces presently; mean time the Combat continued, and notwithstanding divers Cavalier's intervening to hinder them, Augustus being mounted upon a Horse as full of fire as his Master of fury, made himself passage in desight of all those that endeavoured to separate them: And being even ready to fall, like a hasty storm, upon his Adversary with a quick backblow the dexterous Iphigenes slit the nostrils of his Courser, who foaming and breathing fire out of his mouth, reared up on end and fling so desperately with pain, that casting his Rider with his heels upwards, added to the hurt upon his Thigh, the breaking in pieces of a Leg. Iphigenes nimbly leaping from his Ginet to give Augustus the contentment to fight on foot also (though he could have made his Horse passing and repassing trample out his guts) found him in no condition to contend; So, without taking any other advantage than that of making him deliver his Sword, he gave him his life before all that Assembly, notwithstanding the King gave order he should be killed for having disobeyed his Command. This done, Iphigenes prostrated himself before his Majesty; ceasing not to supplicate until he had changed his Indignation into Clemencio, and obtained Life for him who would have procured his Death. Augustus was carried to his own house, loaded with as much infamy and shame, as Iphigenes reurned covered with the Laurels of triumph and glory: By chance one of his friends taking up Augustus' Lance, found it made purposely to do mischief, being very strongly plated with Iron and sharp-pointed, sufficient evidence of his unworthy intentions; This being told the King, he banished him the Court for ever, notwithstanding Iphigenes employed all the credit he had to procure his pardon.  
The Sun is never without Shadows, nor Virtue free from Envy: yet among so many thorns some flowers may be gathered. Iphigenes had so much quaintness and such sources of polite subtleties in his brain, was so dexterous and happy in captivating hearts, that he was called the Master of that Art. It is true that shadows do still accompany the Sun, but they are very short, when he is Elevated to his Apogee, or the vertical point of the Horizon. So Iphigenes being arrived at the highest degree of favour, and (which is very rare) as precious in the King, his Master's sight, as in the Queen, his Mistresse's, in this Zenith of Honour he contemned the vain vapours of Envy, seeing, as it were from the top of a lofty mountain, the rolling Thunder grumble, and the stormy clouds burst under his feet. There are few that haunt Favourites but either very powerful or inconsiderable persons. For if the Royalty be for them, is it not a Giantlike presumption to offer to approach that Greatness? If the Gods of the Earth be for them, who can surmount, nay, who dares contradict them? Yet as we see, although the glory of the World's Eye be never so bright, the least Atoms and exhalations (like moats) do rise to oppose and blemish it, but are as soon depressed as raised, and no sooner gathered together than dissolved: So do presumptuous spirits revolt and combine sometimes against the Eldest Sons of Fortune; but their fruitless endeavours immediately do make appear the weakness, as well as the baseness of their hearts, swollen and puffed up with Vanity, rather than filled with Courage. Such was Augustus, such approved himself another Nobleman, named Polignotes, of whose vapouring and jealous Bravadoes I shall at this present omit to make any further mention, esteeming it more to purpose, by mingling sweet with sour, to temper the animosities of these envious Antagonists, with the delicious amity of the innumerable friends, which Iphigenes had purchased by his most perfect Courtesy. This admirable knot of Friendship (which is the sweetest bond of humane Society) in its perfection is an Enemy to Multiplicity: A man may be Friendly to all, but should be Familiar with few, and in this Virtuous Familiarity consists that Communication, which giveth life and being to true Friendship. To establish an eminent Fortune and high favour, a man hath need, as of divers Supporters, of many Friends; But in regard Favour (no more than Love) can admit of no corrivals, it was Iphigenes industry sto to manage the good wills of those, that expressed any affection towards him, that making them participant of his Riches, he reserved the King's favour entire to himself. Thus do those that make presents of Fruit, keeping the Tree and the Ground still in their own possession: Thus may one distribute Water, and allow their Neighbour's part, and yet retain the Spring in its wont place.  
Among others, of lower degree (I do not say for matter of quality, but affection) there were two particularly in favour with Iphigenes: One was a young Prince of Polonia, named Cassin, the other a Noble man of a very ancient family known by the name of Pomeran; this was the Minion of his heart, and (as it were) the Favourite of the Favourite, for He loved with much tenderness the person of Iphigenes: The former (who cherished rather his greatness and quality, ardently embracing whatsoever had reference to his Interest and Glory) was as the favourite of the Favour; like Hephestion and Craterus the two friends of Alexander the Great, whereof one loved him as Alexander, the other as King. Cassin and Pomeran were the two Arms and Eyes of our young Count, as those that applied themselves more particularly to what concerned him. Pomeran, being more disinteressed, considered nothing but the person of Iphigenes, for which He did feel passions, which would have been much more Violent, if he had been as Skilful to penetrate the secret of darkness, as Ignorance made him incurious. The Prince (who grasped at great Charges, and whose ambitious humour aimed at nothing but those Grandeurs, whereunto by his extraction he justly might pretend, but could not yet arrive by reason of his too unripe age) accosted Iphigenes, as a Jacob's ladder, that he might thereby climb to the top of his pretensions. His Mother (who shall likewise enter upon this stage, under the name of Respicia) brought him into the World before She could fully reckon the third lustre of her age, her Husband (who had be one of the highest rank in the Kingdom) having left her a widow in her five and twentieth year; And although She was owner of Beauty enough to make her be beloved, and enjoyed an Estate that might invite the greatest in that Country to marry her, yet the affection She did bear to the memory of her deceased Husband, and the consideration She had of her two Children, made her remain almost ten years in a constant Widowhood, breeding with all the splendour and care imaginable, those two precious pledges of her former flames. However being one of the most consderable Ladies in the Court, and living in the height of delights (though then arrived at her five and thirtieth year) She found at length the death of her Liberty in the inevitable charms of Iphigenes Beauty. This COKELUCHE or Court-Vertigo had so turned her brain, that She forgot both the Idea of her Husband, the Affection to her Children, and the Care of herself, exposing herself to the hazard of being the table-talk through the whole World, to the disadvantage of that Honour, of whose preservation She had always thitherto made so exact a profession.  
Those Creatures that are signalised for the greatest Wiles, when they are taken, do display all their Shifts; so did this subtill-witted Lady, when She perceived herself tied by the Heart with such delicious bands, that she preferred this Servitude before her former Liberty. For, the better to dissemble her wound, the more she felt the smart, of all the Ladies in the Court she was observed to speak the seldomest and the least advantageously of Iphigenes, suppressing all her passion within her breast without suffering it to evaporate at the passage of her mouth but by very slight sparkles. But if she said little she thought the more, and fancied no mean projects to accomplish the design she had to make herself lawfully his Wife. Widows, who have learned in their Matrimonial observances the secrets of pleasing Men, and how to entrap them, send glances from their Eyes so much the more attractive, the less they are innocent; And as the most sparkling fire and hottest embers, are those which are covered with ashes; as the most shining flashes of Lightning are those which proceed from the blackest Clouds: So the kidnesses that come from under those great Veils, are generally the most attractive; those are the Fires that blaze in the midst of Water, when from Eyes destined to Tears are cast such speaking looks. Yet all these artificial affectations were Vainly employed by this Princess to conquer or inveigle Iphigenes, whose Heart was no less susceptible of these flames, than his Body was capable of those legititimate Embraces to which she did aspire. However Iphigenes did very much esteem her person, but it was in that manner as he could and ought, not as she desired. This cautelous Student in Love's Politics had learned particularly by Mieslas (the depth of whose thoughts she had sounded by her sugared speeches) that the marriage of Iphigenes with Modestina was not consummated: Whereupon she contrived a Plot, that will make appear the subtlety of a Wit refined by that Passion, which puts Invention into the simplest and most blockish brains.  
She, who had a conceit that Marriage consisted only in the use of the Bodies, never considering that the Union of the Hearts and the consentment of the Wills, are the materials whereof if form the Essence of Matrimony, flattered herself that she should easily disannul or untie that knot betwixt Iphigenes and Modestina, and put herself in Modestina's place; But fearing lest a repulse should make her the fable of the Court, and expose her to the people's scorn, she thought best to bring her Daughter into play, and propose her to Mieslas for Iphigenes with such advantages as were neither in the Fortune nor person of Modestina. This Daughter of here's, named Simphoroza, was yet very young, but did promise in the Aurora of her age great perfections of Beauty at her Noon. The Palatine of Podolia who devoured in his greedy thoughts all those high proffers of the Princess Respicia, (believing that Rosuald's Estate would however be entirely his own, by making Liante embrace an Ecclesiastic life, and giving some slight Dowry to Modestina;) was easily induced to hearken to her propositions, considering (besides the great fortune she promised to make her Daughter) the splendour of so Noble an Allaince; But this cunning Mother's design was only to substitute herself in her Daughter's place (who was yet nothing near Marriageable) and to supply with the lustre of her Gold and immense Estate, what she wanted in Beauty, or was superabundant in Years; Thus the Father was gained, which seemed no small advancement to our Pretendant's intentions, every one being apt to believe easily what they do desire. But the difficulty was in obtaining the Son's consent, (who being advertised of this Design by Mieslas, and knowing in his Soul that he was no less unfit to be Simphoreza's Husband than Modestina's, not to multiply his deceits,) rejected the propositions, feigning scruples of Conscience, much passion for his wife, and giving Mieslas to understand that he had proceeded further in the terms of Marriage with Modestina than he imagined. The rigorous Podolian (who had in a manner engaged his word to the Princess, thinking to find more obedience in his Son's spirit) was ready to burst into a furious fit of Choler at this resistance, but considering that Iphigenes by his favour had all the power with the King, he retained the impetuosity of his passion, giving testimony enough however of his displeasure by the alterations of his Countenance. Notwithstanding this refusal Respicia gave not over her pursuit, feigning, like a good Mother, to be passionate for the advancement of her Children, for whom she could procure nothing more advantageus than the Alliance with Favour (mean time it was her own interest made her act with so much solicitude:) According to the nature of her Sex, which never ceaseth ask until they achieve their end, she prayed, pursued, pressed in time, out of time, leaving no means unattempted; and it was partly her persuasion that made the Prince Cassin, her Son, render such devoirs to Iphigenes, which made him worthy of his friendship, wherein he succeeded as is already mentioned. Thus did this crafty Spider spread her Web to ensnare the beautiful Adolescent, and make herself wife to him, of whom she might have been the Mother.  
She had such a hand over Cassin, that this young Prince at her instance used all the arguments his Invention could suggest, to induce Iphigenes to marry his Sister, to whom, for quality, Modestina was not comparable. But Iphigenes had the skill to divert his discourse with such modesty and dexterity, that without giving him any occasion of distaste, he amused his expectation, and by little and little made him relinquish that thought, which he esteemed unjust. It is an opinion that Batteries made Crosse-wise are the most destructive; Respicia raised here's in this manner, and as if she had been desirous to sink all her house (which was one of the most opulent of Polonia) into the family of Mieslas, she offered him to give her Dauther to his Son, and her Son to his Daughter Clemencia, and so make but one of both their Families. which the Palatine, dazzled at the splendour of so much honour, embraced with both hands, not perceiving the hook that was hidden under this bait. Mean time Respicia covered so dexterously her Love under the mask of Ambition, that whilst she was called a careful and loving Mother, she aimed at another Mark. Her importunities, together with the oppressing instances of Mieslas, did shrewdly tempt the patience of Iphigenes, who against all these assaults had no other defence than the rampire of the Fidelity which he owed, & which he had sworn to his wife Modestina to whom, being pressed with these agonies, He wrote such passionate letters, that the most affectionate of Lovers could not express his imaginations in a style more Pathetical: Which kindled such a fire in the bowels of this Maiden Spouse, that the too much sense of Love deprived her of all sense. You may add to that Love, the Fear which is insepirable from those who fervently do affect, and the Apprehension of losing, by Change, that which is more precious than Life. For she knew by the mouth of Fame, which hath a thousand tongues and by letters from Iphigenes own hand, that he was the common object of the Eyes and Hearts of all the Court Ladies, which bred a torment in her Miad, inconceivable by any Soul, that hath not experimented the just and incomparable affections that possessed her heart. A thousand times she was in the mind to go to Court to her Husband, and say to all her Rivals, What do you? he is entirely mine, as I am solely his; Your pretensions are too unjust to find any access into his breast, who is nothing but Fidelity, who feeds amongst the Lilies of Purity, and the Roses of Honour: Your attractions are too slight to move so constant a Spirit; Your Passions, be they feigned or real, are but weak Vapours before the Sun of his Reason. Why then with too licentious a desire do you endeavour to purloin a treasure, that belongs peculiarly to me? withdraw your fond affections, banish those no less Vain than unanswerable pretensions from your thoughts, for Iphigenes hath engaged his faith to me by the indissolvable ties of a most sacred Hymen.  
Thus did this loving Spouse entertain her troubled mind, but Shame opposing her Design (if there can be any shame in the legitimate desires of a chaste wife) or rather the impossibiity of disengaging herself from under Aretuza's wing, and the strict guard of the too severe Perpetua, made her seek in Patience the common Remedy of all her discontents. How often did she please her fancy with the imagination of transvesting herself, and by the help of a Man's disguise deceiving the eyes of those that watched her deportments, to convey herself into the Court to her beloved Iphigenes? But that Honour, whereof she was so Jealous, did choke this Resolution at its birth, considering that such an Equipage would not only make her the discourse of inconsiderate Censurers, but in stead of rendering her Husband a testimony of her Love, might perhaps attract upon her Innocence his Dislike. At length, not to do any thing unbeseeming her quality, she resolved to hearken to Modesty, and let Discretion prevail over all those Surges of Passion: She comforted herself with her letters from Iphigenes; the words in every line whereof were as many protestations of Constancy, and new oaths of Fidelity. The several virtues she had remarked in her dear Husband were as many Proofs, and those Proofs as many Assurances of his invariable Purity, whereupon she reposed all her thoughts; And these thoughts, which often made her sequester herself into sad unfrequented places, were her most delicious recreations. The shade of woods, the coolness of Gardens, and the agreeable murmuring of Fountains fomented in her breast that humour which nourished itself with the dear remembrance of her adored Husband's perfections.  
And if such were the resentments of this Turtle, being separated from the presence of her mate; Think not that Iphigenes felt any less discomfort amongst all his greatnesses, which he would willingly have shared to his dear Friend and Wife, or, to have rendered the contentment perfect, have enjoyed in their presence. His affection to Modestina, and the Love he bare Liante, never suffered him to take any rest, notwithstanding the multitude of Felicities, wherewith the King's favour had (in a manner) overwhelmed him. Thus in this world we can have nothing perfect: Those whom we do many times imagine (seeing them born up by the wings of the Wind of a Prince's favour) to Swim in an Ocean of Delights, do find amongst the agreeable flowers of Pleasure, some secret prickle of Sorrow, which marreth the harmony of their Prosperity. Of so many Objects whereunto the Court did invite Iphigenes to affix his affections, he saw as few that he deemed worthy of the application of his thoughts, as He who looked for a Man with a candle, at midday, amongst a great Assembly in a public place. Whether the want of Freedom and Virtue (which is great amongst Courtiers) made him meet with a scarcity of friends in that multitude which environed him; or whether (which is very probable) the first impressions of affection had so seasoned the new Vessel of his Heart, that here was no possibility of making it take any other tincture, or taste, than that which he had relished in the conversation of Modestina and Liante, the sweet Objects of his education and most tender years: His Disposition being of an excellent temperature, and his Heart no coveter of Wealth, Avarice and Vanity (which are the two Bonds, the two Charms, and, as I may say, the two poisoned Tets of the Court-favour) had very little interest in his Soul; And Voluptuousness (which according to the saying of an ancient Orator, hath no place of abode in the Kingdom of Virtue) could find no access in his Body, too Honest not to be Continent: No wonder then if the fetters of the Court, though made of Gold and precious Stones, were irksome unto him; and the sincere, chaste and true affection which he bore those two absent Objects of his Love, made him in the midst of so many pleasures languish with the desire of their presence.  
The passionate resentments of his Soul for this detested Separation, He feelingly expressed in several letters to Modestina and Liante, which they interchangeably communicated to each other according to the permission of their Overseers, & in order to Iphigenes particular injunction, who at his departure from them did earnestly entreat Liante to take, as intended to him, the affectionate letters he should write to his Sister, protesting that the Friendship he did bear him, was no less tender nor less ardent, than his Love to Modestina (as may easily be believed by one that knows the reason, whereof Liante as yet was ignorant.) One day (Modestina and her Brother having been alarmed, by letters from the faithful Iphigenes, with the Princess Respicia's design of breaking their Marriage, and giving him her Daughter to wife; whereunto he had been Solicited by Mieslas, whom she had gained; But that he had rejected their propositions, choosing rather to lose his life than his Loyalty) He received letters from them full of complaints and stinging resentments of Jealousy; Modestina feigning to fear, or fearing in effect that the rare Beauties and great Honours, whereof the Court is the Element, would in time ravish from her the Mind as well as the Body of her Iphigenes; And Liante writing that the acquaintance of great Ones would perchance make him not value the friendship of meaner Persons, in which rank he placed himself. Whereunto a Reply was speedily dispatched, which containing large expressions of a holy and real affection, comforted a little those two tender hearts which languished one for her Husband, the other for his sincere Friend: But why do I say comforted? I should rather say, that it caused the same effect in the sorrow of their Privation, as water in a Smith's forge being cast upon burning coals, whose heat it doth increase; Or as those hot drops of rain extorted by the Sun during the ardours of Summer, which rather Scald than Wet. Indeed if we measured their discontents for his absence, with the satisfaction they would have received by the presence and possession of Iphigenes, we might judge of its extremity. However not to give Iphigenes any occasion to be afflicted at their suspicions, they made him understand by Letters how great a confidence they had in his promise and constancy, acknowedging that those honours which are accustomed to change the dispositions of weak and vulgar Souls, are below the thoughts of them that place their honour in their Faith, and who are not Reeds of the Desert in unconstancy, but Pillars of the Temple of Stability.  
By this reciprocal intelligence of Letters these three loving Hearts maintained the harmony of their concord, that served for Oil to nourish the Lamp of their mutual affection. Mean time Iphigenes, blessed with the dew of Heaven and Earth, was the true Child of Increase, and the Nursling of Fortune, Fortune in him seeming to have lost those two qualities of Blind, and being an Enemy to Virtue, since she knew so worthily and so abundantly to acknowledge his Merit. The greatest secret to gain Fortune is to be Just, to abstain from Evil and do Good, for it is with Justice as with Wisdom, all sorts of felicity do attend her. The same success doth not accompany those, who by obliqne and undirect ways do seek to accomplish their pretensions, in imitation of Ships, who having but a bare quarter wind, do laveer and turn several ways before they can arrive at their intended Port. The Princess Respicia, being stung with that Wasp that robs Minds of repose, solicited Mieslas without intermission, to press Iphigenes to the rapture of his non consummated Marriage, and become Spouse to her Daughter, Simphoroza; Which proposition jumped with the Father's disposition, being equally greedy after her Wealth and Honour, especially the Prince Cassin likewise promising to marry Clemencia. As for this last Marriage, Iphigenes' consent was easily obtained thereunto, nay more, he desired it might be accomplished, to draw that thorn out of his foot, I mean, that point of Jealousy, which sticking at his Heart did cause him to fear, lest Liante should be so deeply engaged in Clemencia's Love, that He should not be able to conquer his inclinations when the time for his Revelation and Metamorphosis should be expired: But for the other he laboured all he could to hinder it, alleging his Faith given, the Honour of his Word, his Affection to Modestina, and the Obligations he had to the fervency of her Love, whom he would have them esteem as his Wife. All this Mieslas (after the manner of great Persons, who use to make and unmake Marriages according to their Interests) called Superstitious and frivolous Scruples, telling his Son, by way of reproach, that he was too Religious for a Courtier, and too strict an observer of his word for a Favortie. At least, said he, Do not oppose the advancement of your Sister's Fortune by your too fond inclinations for Modestina; whereupon Iphigenes suddenly replying, promised, That he would contribute the utmost of his endeavours to further the Match between the Prince Cassin and his Sister Clementia; and to that effect he became a frequent Visitor of Respicia, who did express such extraordinary kindness in her receptions, that Iphigenes might easily have perceived the full scope of her thoughts, and whereunto did tend those Nets which she prepared for him. For producing her Daughter before him, rather loaden than decked with Jewels, besides her Youth, being yet Infantine in a manner (an Age that hath neither Beauty nor Ugliness) her design was to induce him to make a Change, and catch him in her own Trap by attracting his looks upon herself. But Iphigenes being what he was, ran no danger of being entangled in such Snares, this Bait and Line were not proper for that Fish.  
Love, how blind soever he is esteemed, hath Linxe's Eyes, which penetrate to the very thoughts. Stanislas Palatine of Vratislaü, being a Widower in the strength of his Age, and having no other issue than an only Daughter, had cast his Eyes upon the Princess Respicia, as the Party of all the Court most suitable to his quality. She through a vanity common to all Women, who take a pride in seeing themselves Observed, Courted, and Adored, admitted of his Visits, and by a  consentment approved of his Suit in not rejecting it. For, young Widows, that suffer Men to accost them, that give ear to their offers of Service, and their protestations of Fidelity, do seem (as Mistresses of their Motions) to give these Suitors some hold upon their liberty, or at least to foment a hope in them that their Vows shall not be displeasing. This Nobleman holding Respicia for his Mistress, was not well satisfied to see her visited by our Favourite, whose glory dazzled all the World, and effaced the lustre of the most Eminent persons. But his displeasure was redoubled, when he perceived by Respicia's actions and countenance, that she participated of the Court-vertigo for this fair Podolian. At last he grew beyond all temper, having intelligence of the Marriage which was projected betwixt the Prince Cassin and Clementia; (for he Marrying the Mother intended to match his Daughter to her Son, and by their double Alliance to draw the Princess' vast estate into his own hands.) But when he heard of the advantages that were offered to Iphigenes, if he would take to Wife the Princess' Daughter Simphoroza, this raised so furious a disorder in his Mind, that he believed the Favour would ruin all his pretensions, if he did not speedily rid his Hands of the Favourite. Already Respicia had no more any Eyes to see him, no Mouth to speak to him, no reception for his Visits; he perceived nothing in her Actions but a cold Reservedness, in her Countenance Disdain, at his arrival Sadness, at his departure Joy; apparent signs of his being in disgrace, if he prevent it not, all his ho's are vanished. Ambition kindled his Love, Love suscitated Jealousy, Jealousy hatched Despair, and Despair precipitated him into such a rage as made him espouse the wickedest of resolutions, to Sacrifice to his Revenge the Innocent blood of him who thought nothing less than to supplant him in the Princess Respicia's Favour.   

The Third Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
The Combat betwixt Stanislas and Iphigenes. Stanislas killed by Iphigenes. The manner of his Death. The Palatinate of Uratislau given by the King to Iphignes. The Envy of the Courtiers, and their plots against Iphigenes. The King made jealous of the Queen, She no lesS umbragious of him, and both for Iphigenes. Iphigenes by the King's command is difmissed the Court. His generous deportment in this Disgrace. Perpetua having discovered the intelligence betwixt Liante and Clemencia, advertiseth Aretuza and Mieslas. Liante made close Prisoner by express command from Mieslas. Iphigenes obtein's leave of the King to pass through Podolia into his Palatinate, under pretence of seeing his Mother, and taking his Wife Modestina with him. Mieslas having endeavoured in vain to dissuade him, commands Modestina to be imprisoned and strictly guarded in one of his strongest Castles. The King's and Queen's deportments when Iphigenes came to take leave of them. His speeches to them at his departure. The manner of his retiring from the Court. The Princess Respicia having followed him into Podolia presses Mieslas to make him repudiate Modestina in favour of her Daughter Simphoroza. His Evasions.  
ONe Day Stanislas, attended by divers Gentlemen besides his ordinary Train on Horseback (after the Polonian manner) met Iphigenes accompanied like a Favourite; And it being in a public place where the Noblemen used to take their pleasures, He accosted him, desiring that He might speak two or three words to him in private: Iphigenes (who for Courtesy had not his equal through the whole Universe) presently left his company, and being retired some little distance, Stanislas said to him in a fierce arrogant manner, That he porceived he had a design to establish a fortune to his prejudice, which was a thing repugnant to the Laws of Chivalry and Honour, and that he might find ways enough to advance himself about the King, without going to trouble or thwart his pretensions to the Princess Respicia, to whom He was Servant and ambitioned to be Husband, intending likewise, by Marrying her, to make Cassin his Son in Law; therefore he wished him to desist from pretending to that Alliance, which (he heard) was projected betwixt him and Simphoroza, and that betwixt Clemencia and the Prince Cassin: Otheriwse He being obliged to resent so injurious an Affront, was resolved to revenge it with his Sword. Iphigenes answered very mildly (but with a resolution full of generosity) That He should be very sorry to make any advantage of another Man's detriment; That thitherto He had so managed his Fortune, that no body could frame any complaint against him for that respect; That He knew too well the honour which was due to His quality, and what He owed to his own Modesty to begin with Him to disoblige, by any prejudice, persons of such Eminence. That for his alliance with Simphoroza, it was not only unlikely but impossible, and whereof he never had nor should embrace any thought (although it might be done without tentering his Conscience) his affections being already so engaged to Modestina, that, if she were not his Wife, he never would have any other, And therefore he might rest satisfied for that point: As for the Marriage of the Prince Cassin with his Sister Clementia, it proceeded rather from Respicia's own seeking, than any motion of his, and for that he did appeal to the Testimony of the Princess herself, to whose Alliance he did neither hinder him to pretend, neither would he bar Cassin of the free liberty to choose his Daughter, or Clemencia. Who could have ansered with greater moderation, respect and sincerity? Yet the Savage Sarmation drawing vanity from the sweetness of this reply, like Spiders which make venom of Roses, rudely thus retorted, that is was not enough that he pretended nothing to Simphoroza; but that Clemencia must not be Married to Cassin: Adding (with a proud Bravado) That there was not that Man living, that should dare to look upon her Mother, but should receive Death from his Hand. At which words Iphigenes with an accent no less civil than resolute said; My Lord Palatine, I have already told you that the Mother is left to Yourself; That I pretend nothing to the Daughter, and as for my Sister she hath never yet seen Cassin, neither hath she any will but that of her Parents, who are discreet enough; the management of such matters belongs particularly to them, and they know best what they have to do; Marriages are free, and Violence ought to have no place in such Sacred ties. And I told you (replied Stanislas) that that doth prejudice me, that I am the first pretendant to that Alliance, and no Man shall come to tread in my steps, but I will make him repent it, let him be ne'er so much in Favour, and his quality ne'er so eminent.  
Hereupon Iphigenes presently made this answer, It seems Stanislas, by the word Favour, that you address your speech to me, as if I were the Subject of your discontent: I wear by my side where withal to give satisfaction to persons of Honour, and you must know that I am no Man to suffer such out-braving Language. What I have said already aught to satisfy you, if you are reasonable; but if you are beyond that, I know the way to make you return to Reason. The Proud Palatine who aimed at nothing but to pick a quarrel, persuading himself by the weakly proportion of body, and the unsouldier-like countenance of Iphigenes, that a stout Heart could not be harboured under so fair a Face; besides seeing himself at that time not only better Horsed, but advantaged with a great Sable or Cimeterr which hung by his side, replied; There's too much said, Men of my Birth and Quality are not accustomed to bear such words, I must take thy Life, and so deliver Polonia from the Tyranny which thou dost exercise over their Sovereign. Whereunto Iphigenes immediately thus: I own nothing to thy Birth, nor to thy Quality, they are both equalised, nay surpassed by mine, and since my Mouth could not satisfy thee with Reason, my Hand shall punish thy unreasonableness with Justice. This said, they parted to give their Horses a turn. Stanislas being mounted upon a stately Courser, came with his Sable in his Hand as if he would have cleft Iphigenes to the twist, who riding upon a little Hungarian Nag, very swift and well managed, the nimbleness of the Horse, together with the dexterity of the Rider, rendered the direction of that Thunder blot of no effect: And the Nag being very ready, answered the least motion of Iphigenes Hand, so that making a quick turn, he presently gained the crupper of Stanislas, and sheathed his Sword in his Reins, of which wound (being mortal) he fell immediately from his Horse. The two Troops that attended on them a loof off, were no sooner come up to them, but Stanislas, being at the last gasp, seemed to remain alive only to acknowledge his fault, which declaring in all their hear, he demanded pardon of Iphigenes, and of the Heavens, after which he expired, protesting that nothing was more just than Heaven, nothing more unjust than his Jealousy and Choler. This encounter, as that with Augustus, highly augmented the glory of Iphigenes, even the same persons that accompanied Stanislas condemning the unjustness and blindness of his Passion.  
The King hearing this, and fearing lest this Temerity of Stanislas might embolden other envious persons to attempt some malicious design against Iphigenes, commanded that the Process should be made against the memory of the dead Offender, and that his carcase should publicly suffer the shame of an ignominious punishment. But Iphigenes begging upon his knees before His Majesty, mitigated the severity of his resolution, deriving the fault upon Love which doth frequently over master Reason, and blind the clearest Judgements. This increased the praises of Iphigenes, and made all his deceased enemy's friends profess themselves his servants. The King, though overcome by persuasions to pardon his Honour, would however make his Estate suffer, the confiscation whereof he gave to Iphigenes, but he refused it, having not the heart to triumph in such mournful Spoils: yet afterwards seeing the King would bestow it amongst his Courtiers (who, like Ravens or Kites, do fly greedily at such preys) to preserve it for the Orphaline, he accepted it, and took a singular care of advancing the posterity of him, who so barbarously sought his Life, rendering, like a Flint, for unkind Blows, the sparkles of Favour and Courtesy. The Shoulders of the Princess Respicia were eased of no small burden by this Palatine's Death; for (besides that it lay heavy upon her, his pursuit being become not only importunate, but odious to her, since she had cast her Eyes and affections upon the beautiful Podolian) she fancied that, being watched now no more by that Dragon, she should have better opportunity to disclose her intentions, and conduct them to the desired end. The same Death raised Iphigenes to the degree of Palatine (which is the highest step of honour amongst the Grandees of Polonia) for the King requited his innocence, with the inheritance of his unjust Adversaires Authority. Thus the Weights which seem to depress the Palms, do make them grow up higher; Thus the Knife that cut's the Vines, maketh them flourish, and is cause of their producing new Leaves, whose Breadth and Beauty do efface the lustre of the ancient stock.  
As great Tempests are preceded by little Winds, which curl the smooth-faced Waters, and make the Trees Leaves tremble; As many little stones do tumble from an Housetop before the whole building falls; And as extreme Sicknesses are forerun bymany slight indispositions: So in great Prince's Favourites the declining of their Fortune hath its presages; and although oftentimes they feel the Thunderbolt before they see the Lightning, yet, to those that have but indifferent judgements, it is easy to prejudicated that some sinister accident doth threaten them. When Pamphlets, Songs, Advertisements, Satyrs, Poems, and Defamatory Libels are dispersed abroad, it is, as when those white Birds are seen flying upon the Sea coast, which are infalilible forerunners of foulweather. The beautiful Face of Iphigenes (which betrayed and almost accused his Heart) was the Rock whereon equally those that loved, and those that hated him were Shipwrackt. It's strange, that Hatred and Love should deduce their Origine from the same Principle. That which ravished his Lovers, made the Jealous burst with Spite; and when some praised exceedingly those perfections which charmed so many Eyes, the Envious would take occasion thence to blame him as being Effeminate: But as Iniquity commonly stop's its own Mouth, and give's itself the Lie, the two encounters of Augustus and Stanislas shown evidently enough the nullity os that reproach, and compelled those that called Iphigenes a cowardly Paris, to acknowledge that He was rather to be honoured as a brave Hippolytus, who could join Valour with Beauty. Some others (who knew that he had been Married very young, and that he had not proceeded to Consummation, and besides, (although the Ladies generally were enamoured of him) seeing that he repaid their flames with such indifferency) accused him of Impotency; For Courtiers have that base quality, not only to make little esteem of Continency themselves, but blame it in others. Besides, Envy is a False Glass, which changeth the Face of Objects, which makes the handsomest things seem ugly, and chargeth Virtue with the same defects that render Vices . It is true, Iphigenes the better to conceal what really he was; would sometimes play the Courtier amongst the Ladies, taking pleasure to foster in their Breasts a Disease, whereunto he was incapable of applying a remedy; and perceiving that divers amongst them, laid Snares to entrap his Liberty, he delighted in cutting them out Work, and paying them in the same Coyn. What Jealousies, Quips and petty Quarrels did he raise amongst that Sex, who are naturally inclined to Self-conceit and Envy? Their hearts were all as Brimstone to the fire of his Eyes, all as Heliotropes or Turn-sols to the Luster of his Presence. For, besides the advantage of being the King's Favourite (which is the North-Star of those, whose hearts are touched with the Loadstone of the Court) he was possessor of so many amiable qualities, that as soon as he fixed his Eyes upon any Lady, she presently imagined she had caught him, when he had taken her; and this Opinion raising her Fancy to the skies, she thought to triumph over all her Competitors, and be Queen of the Bean, although she had no part of the Cake. For Iphigenes changed his discourse so often, and knew how to amuse them all with such dexterity, that although he loved none, he seemed to consume at every fire he approached. This gave Occasion to some malicious Spirits, Jealous of his Glory, to blast with their Satirical invectives the blossom of his Reputation.  
Whilst these snarling Curs, who cannot by't Iphigenes, do bark after him, casting stones at him without discovering their Arms, and making Libels fly about, which the Authors durst not own but to their surest friends: Others more dangerous, like to the worm that eat's into the Root of the green Ivy, did set their wedges to the Root of his Fortune, to make the Tree fall down, and sturck their Pick axes into the Foundation, to undermine the Edifice. He that hath been an Homicide from the beginning, hath in all times been busy in forging Calumnies, and endeavoured to establish Lies in the place of Truth: He hath always sowed Darnell amongst the good grain, and mingled in the pure Gold of the most generous Actions, the Rust and Scum of false Reports and Detraction. The wheel of Fortune (like the Potter's) is in perpetual Motion, always framing new Vessels, sometimes of Ignominy, sometimes of Honour, and seems to raise those, on whom She confer's Dignities, merely to dash them in pieces by their fall, as Eagles deal with Tortoises. This fickle Stepdame (constant in nothing but Inconstancy, and who hath nothing certain but her Incertainty) favouring the designs of the malicious Enemies of the innocent Iphigenes, whom she had till then been elevating to the highest point of her Circle, suggested to their Envy the Invention, if not to work his utter Ruin, at least to make him be discarded from the Court, and so, by a Disgrace, to precipitate him down the hill of his declining Greatness. Thus was their Plot, which they so cunningly contrived, that those who were surprised in the same snare never did perceive it. Some Devilish Spirits, by means of certain Women (good workers of such wicked Stratagems) buzzed into the Queen's ears Imaginations, that ought not to enter into the thoughts of so discreet and so virtuous a Princess, persuading her that the King, in his friendship to Iphigenes, by an Oriental Licentiousness did pass the terms of Honour and his Devoir. This was to touch the Queen on the Apple of the Eye, and wound her in the most sensible place about her: Insomuch that as those Meats which most delight our appetites in health, are the most loathsome to us being Sick; so the very name of Iphigenes, on whom she looked so favourably beofre this false report, hereupon became odious unto her, and his presence insupportable. The matchless Civility, Modesty, and chaste Demeanour, which formerly she had with leisure remarked in this beautiful Youth, vanished all in one moment out of her Mind, and the place of Truth was presently usurped by false Reports and vain surmises. How easy it is in a Woman's heart to supplant the Innocent!  
They had a fairer game to play with the King: For the familiarity and free access which Iphigenes had to the Queen and the other Ladies, more than ever was permitted to any other Favourite, presently cast dust in the Eyes of his Reason; And as for the most part we are the last that know what is said of us, they made his Majesty believe that every one's mouth was filled with the ill deportments of Iphigenes, to whom moreover they attributed the insolence of boasting of Favours, which (though he had received) he ought to have kept secret; But this (they said) they could not be induced to believe of a Princess so Virtuous, & who had always led so exemplary a life as the Queen; Nevertheless that Greatness was not Goodness, neither could her Dignity hinder her from being a Woman, that is, like Crystal, the more brittle, the more it is resplendent. This is the usual procedure of all envious Backbiters, they draw their Arms backwards, like Archers, to make their shafts enter deeper, feigning not to believe themselves, what they endeavour to persuade others: their soothing words are as the Oil, wherein Surgeons use to dip the end of their Lancets to render the point more piercing. The Bed and the Throne admit of no Competitors; in these, Suspicions are Oracles, and Shadows seem Lights of Truth. Nevertheless the King (who had by long experience known his Companion, and who did not only believe her, but knew her to be all white with purity and innocence, besides, not finding that the most venomous nails of Envy could make the least impression in the polished Ivory of Iphigenes actions, as far as he ever could discern) like a prudent and equitable Prince, would not decide a cause of such importance upon that bare report, lest he should thereby fall into Accidents as scandalous as full of injustice; Much less did he think it suitable to his Majesty, to inform himself more particularly in such ticklish matters, it being an Act of little discretion to seek too curiously after that, which one would be aggrieved to find. But judging (and rightly) that a business of this Nature ought rather to be hushed up than published, not to offend his own honour, nor give occasion to any other to be scandalised, He thought it more convenient to unsow gently, than rend in pieces Violently: Knowing that if that relation were but a fiction, Time (the Father of Verity) would discover its Vanity; that if those affections were then but beginning, Absence would deracinate them (like young plants) before they took too deep root; at the worst, that it was but casting Earth upon that Fire, that is, interposing a good distance of ground betwixt them, Love's power remaining effectless in the privation of the Object. The expedient which Prudence suggested to him, was to send Iphigenes from his Court, under pretence of taking possession of his new Palatinate, where being, He would command him to stay to acquire credit amongst his Subjects, and take account of the Castellians, without returning to the Court until further order, which in good terms is called an Honourable Banishment.  
The Storm fell all at once upon the faultless Iphigenes, by the Eclipse of the Gemini, the favourable looks of their two Majesties; and, which was very strange, the treachery was designed and effected so artificially, that he could not devise who should be the Artificers, nor, which afflicted him the more, knew the Cause of his disgrace: In that respect more miserable than those criminals, who by hearing their Indictment read, are at least informed of the reason of their punishment. But what was most of all to be admired, was, that neither the King nor the Queen, who both agreed in this relegation, did communicate to each other their Thoughts, which by different projects arrived at the same End. Those that have purchased Favour by Merit, not by Subtleties, have a certain generosity not common to all Favourites, by virtue whereof they descend with as much Glory as they were raised, like a Lion as bold in his retreat as in his sally, and as Cesar, who feeling himself Stabbed in open Senate, took care to adjust the folds of his Robe, that he might fall honourably, as is remarked by his own Historian. Iphigenes without enquiring further into the Occasion of his being thus on a sudden discountenanced, not to irritate their Majesties, and without preventing their Commands by a predemanded leave or any feigned distaste, was willing without reply to subscribe to the King's Will, which his obedience held to be a sufficient Reason. As he was just upon the point of fitting his train for his journey into his Palatinate, not complaining as commonly those do, who know themselves not guilty, or those that leave their Fortunes with Regret; nor seeking to justify himself, which had been to accuse his Master of Injustice, in regard that before Kings (in that, like God) no justification can subsist, their Disgrace only being capable to render the most Innocent Culpable. It was not without some remorse on the King's part, some discontentment on the Queen's, and the universal sorrow of the Court, that this fair Star was Eclipsed from that Climate, which seemed to borrow more less lustre from his presence, than it received from the splendour of the Royalty. But Mischiefs, which seldom or never come single, attended Iphigenes by the way, to make him alter his Course, and try his patience in more than one manner. Being ready to departed, a Messenger brought him news of a disaster befallen Him, who was the light of his eyes, and for the possession of whom he would not only have left his Favour at the Court, but willingly have resigned Sceptres and Crowns, which are but Vanities, as Onerous as Honourble. Liante, the Object of his thoughts, was made prisoner in one of his Father's Castles, and so stirctly guarded, that he was hardly permitted the liberty to take the Air; which imprisonment was imposed upon him for the reason which you shall hear.  
Whilst Iphigenes was swimming in the full stream of Favour at Court, being the Torment and the Delight of all Eyes & Hearts, and the Minion of Fortune; Liante plunged in the depth of an inconceivable Melancholy, as well for the absence of his dear friend, as to see himself constrained (like Sisyphus) to roll an unpleasing Stone without any relaxation, I mean to wed himself to a vocation, which (though honourable in itself) was however odious to him, had no other means to divert his discontented thoughts, nor any other possibility of releasing himself out of that thraldom, than by flattering his fancy with the the alliance of Clemencia; who burning in a mutual flame for him, did daily (with all the civil respects and discretion, that could be desired of a modest and well educated Virgin) render him most fervent testimonies of her chaste affection. Although Love loveth secrecy as the Violets do the shade; yet it is easy to follow it by the tract, and, if it be honourable, to smell it a far off by the odour of its parfumes; if it be otherwise, the blackness, the stinking smoke, & the shameful Events that always do succeed illicite desires, will at length make it known. Perpetua sleeping in security as for Modestina's part by reason of Iphigenes' absence, applied all her care to observe the deportments of Clemencia, in whom (like a subtle Matron) having perceived either by her Complexion, in her Eyes, or her Actions the Tokens of an Heart distempered and taken with some Object, like a cunning Hound she followed the sent so close, that in short time she found where the Hare had made her Form, and discovered on which side Clemencia's Pulse did beat. The more knowledges he gained of this secret intelligence 'twixt her and Liante, the more she feigned ignorance, like Fishers who let their Angles lose, the better to draw the Fishes to them, or drive them genlty into the Leaps, there to make prey of them; Or like Fowlers who seem to go away, when they would have the Birds come into their Nets. Indeed how witty and inventive soever young heads are, it is hard for them to deceive old People; for if their Bodies be decayed with Age, their Spirits being refined by Experience, do lead the others to the School of Prudence. In a word, this old Governess was too quicksighted for our young Lovers; She, like an Owl, could see by Night, that is, in the most obscure corners of their retreats; She understood the Language of their Looks; She could Divine the meaning of their Hearts; She clearly saw the complacency of their conversations, whether in the House, sitting alone in the Gardens, walking in the Fields, or in company; She perceived that Modestina was likewise of their intelligence, and that She contributed what she could to the unity of these two Hearts, for the contentment of her Brother, whom Iphigenes had recommended to her above all things (Alas! with a quite other intention.) But that which made this Lynx penetrate into the depth of this Mystery, was the discovery which the restless old Ferret made of a private place, where our young Lovers were accustmed to put their Letters, and so interchange their correspondence without being perceived by any. This crafty Female finding them, perused them, and then put them into their place again, for they had no other seal than a little band of Silk; in regard they were to pass through no third hand, the secrecy of the place sufficed to keep them close. Although Perpetua found by a long file of circumstances, that there was nothing but what was chaste and honest in their pretensions, since all their designs did aim at that great Sacrament, whose sacred end doth in some manner justify all the ways that do conduct to the accomplishment of it: yet knowing the design of Mieslas, which was to make Liante espouse an Ecclesiastic like, thereby to draw all the Estate to Iphigenes by the right of his Wife Modestina, and besides, being advertised of the Match, which was in agittion at Court, betwixt the Prince Cassin and Clemencia, She thought it no less than her duty to acquaint Aretuza with the secret affections of her Daughter and Liante, to the end they might be cropped in the Bud, and that such remedies might be applied as should be thought most convenient. Aretuza (who had other thoughts in her mind, knowing that Iphigenes, according to the hopes she herself had given him, pretended to Liante with a more than ordinary passion) was glad of this advice, and being desirous to break this intelligence, to preserve Liante for Iphigenes, She forthwith gave Mieslas notice, as also did Perpetua.  
Mieslas (who was Rigour and Barbarism itself) commanded immediately to separate those two Lovers, (as if Hearts could as easily be disjoined as Bodies) that Liante should be kept so close Prisoner in one of his Castles (with only his Tutor and such Servants as were requisite) that he might have no possibility of continuing his correspondence with Clemencia, whom he had promised to the Prince Cassin and the Princess Respicia, and would have the Marriage concluded with all expedition. This command was no sooner received but executed, and to the end the Process might be made by Evidences that could not be denied, Perpetua, like an hungry Kite wheeling too & fro, having pried out the Cabinet where Clemencia kept the Papers she received from Liante, one day she fell upon it, and finding the Nest full of young ones she seized on them with her greedy claws. Liante was the Father, and Clemencia the Mother of them, since (as Hens do their Chickens) she kept them under the shelter of her Wings. The loss of those dear Pledges of Affection was resented by Clemencia with such sorrow, as you may imagine a virtuous Virgin would conceive being surprised in that manner. Liante's Tutor having received instructions from Perpetua did the like to his Pupil, which cast him into such a perplexity, as no words an express; And to heap up the measure of his sorrow, he saw himself debarred of the presence of Her (whose sweet Disposition and Fidelity He had more reason to love, than Her beauty, whereof Nature had been but sparing to her) and not only that, but confined to a Prison, which was no less odious to him, than the cause of his imprisonment was unjust. Iphigenes received intelligence of all these passages from Aretuza, who knew that if this rigorous treatment did dislike him in one respect, it would be pleasing to him on the other, since it did put an obstacle to that Alliance, which might have been prejudical to his design. But Iphigenes (who was grown so Rich and so Great, that the advantage of Rosuald's Inheritance was nothing considerable to him, and who loved Liante with a Love of perfect Friendship, that is, with an affection so free from Interests, that it aimed at no other end, than the good of the person beloved) though glad on the one side to see that Mieslas so played his Game, as to stop the current of Liante's and Clemencia's corresondence, was much grieved on the other for the captivity of his dear Brother-in-law, whose liberty he resolved to procure some way or other, though to the hazard of his own contentment. This was the occasion, that before he went into his own Palatinate of Vratislaü, he demanded leave of His Majesty to go first into Podolia, under pretence of taking his Wife along with him into his Government; which request was so reasonable that there was no Probability of its being subject to a Denial.  
Mieslas knowing of his Son's Design to go into Podolia, and fearing, amongst divers other things, the Consummation of his Marriage with Modestina (which he had least reason of all to apprehend) and lest by the importunities of his Wife, He should be constrained to give Liante his liberty, and not only that, but also to confirm the Match betwixt him and Clemencia, as he had formerly seemed to desire; All which was extremely contrary to the Resolutions, which he had made with the Princess Respicia, concerning the double alliance of their Children. Fearing, I say, all these events severally, and much more, being put together, He employed all his Power and Rhetoric to dissuade his Son from going into Podolia, counselling him punctually to obey the King's command, which was, to retire into his own Palatinate of Vratislaü: But his hopes were, that he being far distant from Modestina, Time, the great Worker of Oblivion, might purge his Heart of that Passion, and dispose him to the Nuptials of Simphoroza: But all his Entreaties, all his Persuasions could not induce Iphigenes to change his Determination; And although divers times, according to his haughty humour, he would thuder out some imperious Language, and express himself in terms that witnessed his Displeasure, yet he durst not attribute too much to his Fatherly Authority, his Son being (according to the World) as Great, and in some respects Greater and Richer than himself. But what did he? whether according to the dictates of his own Disposition (as Cruel as Covetous) or whether instigated by the suggestions of the crafty Princess Respicia, to prevent the mischief which He apprehended, He sent with all expedition a command to commit Modestina close Prisoner in another of his Castles, (but far stronger than where the afflicted Liante was) to hinder his Son, even to the extremity, from enjoying that Wife, which he was resolved to take from him, and place Simphoroza in her room, under whose Infantine Countenance Respicia did hid her own fullgrown desires.  
It is a general Maxim at Court as well as in War, that a Man fails but once, as He can fall but once that tumbles from an high precipice (for at the first falling one's sure to break his neck;) the Favour of Princes holding somewhat of the Nature of the bone in an Horse's Leg, which being once broken can never be well set again. For Monarches do imagine that they never do any body wrong, and that the most innocent are culpable, if they conceive but the least suspicion against them. That if by evident proofs they are brought to acknowledge their unjust precipitation, instead of repenting (as if they were impeccable) they persuade themselves, (although by a re-establishment they salve the sore of the offended party) that the Cicatrice will yet remain, which leaves a sense of the injury, like that of the Goddess Juno, irritated by the judgement of Paris, who could never be reconciled. But all these Axioms were contradicted in this dismission of Iphigenes; for never was any Disgrae more Gracious, Disfavour more , Misfortune more Fortunate, nor Exilement more Gentle. Oh! how highly would he have obliged the King (if Kings can be obliged) whosoever could have devised some honourable expedient to retain Iphigenes! But the Plot was contrived against him with such subtlety, that neither the King nor Queen (though they had desired it) knew which way to motion it. For although they both perceived the innocence of Iphigenes as clearly as the Sun is to be seen at Noonday (if there had been no other proof than his leaving the Court with so little show of disgust;) yet their Honours were equally engaged to suffer his departure, to remove the reciprocal umbrages of suspicion, wherein the malice of his Enemies had so cunningly involved them, that the King knew not that the Queen had any Jealousy of him, neither did She imagine that He had any diffidence of Her; for neither of them made the least show of any discontent; their Tongues being, as it were, Enchanted with the charm of Calumny, could not communicate the conceptions of their Hearts. But when they considered that the Crown was in a manner falling from their heads, Iphigenes, the Soul or (as I may say) the Court of their Court, being to take his leave, they could not but resent the compunctions of sorrow for that separation: however they swallowed that draught not so much to please their tastes, as for their health, since that Absence was to be the Medicine to cure their diseased Minds, and serve as a Touchstone to the Truth, to discern Impostures.  
Never wasy any departure so glorious as that of Iphigenes, you would have said that he went to put the Court into a Sepulchre, and that it was the Funeral of the public Joy; if the Mourning appeared not in the apparel, it was in the People's Hearts, which is far more essential. The King himself, (when he came to kiss his Hands) discovered in his Countenance most evident signs of Sorrow, not as repenting that he had raised his Fortune, but that he had so discarded him: And taking him aside, he spent some time in Discourse, guilding that Pill, & Sugaring that Ruburb, to make him swallow it with the less difficulty, Telling him That he must give way to the Torrent of Envy, for fear it should ruin all that opposed its fury; That it was a part of Wisdom to yield rather than to withstand it; That indeed he had many Detractours, but all their reports did make no more impression in his thoughts, than a Stone in a running water. He promised to recall him ere long, protesting That it grieved him to suffer him any time out of his presence, however he would have him think that it was not to disparage him, but to authorise him the more, giving him the means to purchase Credit and Esteem in his Government, which might one day be useful for the service of his Crown; That he used him like a Father, that send's his Son to Academies in strange Countries, to learn the Art of living in the School of the World, and return with more knowledge Home. Moreover, in token of his real Affection, he gave him as great Presents, as ever he had done formerly, commanding his Treasurers to defray all the charges of his Journey, and giving his Courtiers to understand, that those who would accompany Iphigenes in Compliment out of the City, would do him a Pleasure, and those that would attend him all the way, would do a Service as acceptable as if rendered to his own Person.  
To all this Iphigenes, confounded with so many signal Favours, could make no distinct answer; yet the confusion of his Speech, and the throbbing of his Heart, with the colours of Virtue, which rendered his Face more beautiful than that of Aurora, when she riseth under a serene Sky, furnished him with a Discourse that surpassed the Eloquence of any Tongue; whereunto if you add that moving and fluent Language, which issueth out of the Eyes, when bathed with Tears, there is no charm in all the Art of Rhetoric can parallel this manner of Expression: for 'tis the Heart that speaks in bleeding through the Eyes. What Iphigenes? do you play the Woman? Ha! Are you not afraid to be discovered? certainly Ulysses knew that Achilles, under a Woman's habit, was a Man, by Tokens less evident. At length Sighs & Sobs having made way for Words, he thus replied; Your Majesty looking on me as a Creature of your own making, would be sorry to undo that work of your Hands, therefore you are pleased to surcharge me with so many Favours, and heap such multitudes of benefits upon me, that in despite of my Gratitude I must die Ingrateful to your exceeding Munisicence; but that spot can be no blemish to me, seeing that it is the will which acknowledgeth Obligations, and payeth in some kind by Desire, what it cannot in Effect. Sir, you know how often I have beseeched you to moderate the Favours and Grace (wherewith your Liberality overloaded me) not to offend the malevolent Eye of Envy, who not measuring Presents by the Greatness of the Giver, but by the Meanness of the Receiver, cannot endure that Kings should exalt those who have the happiness to gain their Favour, to the prejudice of their Capricious Humours, which make them find nothing to their minds. As Envy is displeasing to all the World, so all the World displeaseth it, all hands are against it, and its hand is against the most innocent. I should take glory in its Malice, for thence I might derive an occasion to presume of having some virtue, since that is the common Object of its malign practices; But I must confess that in separating me from the presence of Your Majesty, it hath found the means to wound me in the most tender part, and discovered the secret to put my Patience to the harshest trial that I could imagine. For there is no Grandeur, no Riches that I would not trample under my feet as Dung. So that I might but remain near Your Majesty, and all is but Dirt and Ashes to me in your absence. The Colours which they have chosen to banish me from your Court, are very specious; This is to pursue me with Roses and Flowers, to persecute me in casting Oranges and Vials of sweet Waters at me; It is to cut off my Head with a Blade of Gold, or strangle me with a Silken Halter. I do not question, Sir, the reason of my Exile, it sufficeth, that it is your Pleasure, to persuade me that it is Just; if you would command me to go meet Death, you should see me run headlong to obey you, although I were most certain that I had not deserved it. Were it in my choice, I should freely say to your Greatness, Be pleased to take from me what your immense Liberality hath hitherto poured upon my head. But since your Ordinance is otherwise, and that, burdened with Benefits, I must leave the Source for the Rivulets, and be removed hence for the advancement of your affairs and service (without considering the disadvantage to my Honour, or the joy, I will not say, of my enemies, (for I have endeavoured as much as in me lay not to purchase any) but of those that are jealous of the Graces I have received from your Goodness) I am willing to deprive myself, as long as your Majesty shall please, of the glory of your presence, in testimony of my extreme Obedience and Fidelity, protesting that I had rather Die at your feet, than Live far from you in all the honours and delights Imaginable. This discourse interrupted sometimes with Sobs, and accompanied with Tears, as pitiful as the Grief, which produced them, was real, so moved the King's generous Spirit, that he was almost in the mind to repeal Iphigenes Banishment. But humane Prudence, for the reasons already declared, prevailed above his Affection; showing therein his great virtue by subduing himself.  
Iphigenes after this, (with the King's permission) went to take leave of the Queen, who (like a woman,) knew better how to dissemble her regret, but not retain her tears, whose flowing betrayed her Countenance, which she had framed to Gravity and Disdain; So that at length she was enforced to leave off that borrowed Wizard, and show openly enough to Iphigenes, that she lost in him (not without resentment) the richest Ornament of her Court, but that the King making her hope that his absence should not be long, she comforted herself with the expectation of his return, wishing him all happiness in his Journey, and recommending him to continue in the fidelity, which he had always expressed in his Majestie's service, who had obliged him thereunto by so many gracious favours. Whereunto Iphigenes with a cheerful and confident look, replied, MADAM, Since after so many glorious days spent under the heaven of your Court, in the presence of your Favour, I must plunge, or rather bury myself alive in the obscurity of a tedious absence: my Reason more powerful than my Senses, forbids me to complain, and denying utterance to my Sorrow, rendereth it so much the more miserable, the less it dares disclose its Agony. Since afer so many graces received, and so many others that I hoped to receive from your Royal Beneficence, there is a necessity of my experimenting the Rain after the fair weather, and Thorns after the Roses, I can do no less than extol the high Providence of Heaven, which destinying me to Misfortune after so many humane Felicities, hath ordained that my Chastisement proceeds from the same hands that have made me what I am, and from whom I have received greater benefits than I was ever able to deserve, If my Affection to serve your Majesties supply not the place of Merit. Indeed the Excellency of the Cause, makes me rather applaud than condemn the Rigour of the Effect. If the extremity of Sorrow may be allowed to utter words rather free than desperate, permit me, MADAM, to say with all due respect to your Majesty, that if I have any way failed in the Honour or Fidelity that can be required from the most humble subjection and servitude; If I have deviated in the least from my Devoir, after the reception of so many Gratifications, there is no torment cruel enough to inflict upon such a Monster of Ingratitude. Banishment is too Mild, & such a one as is procured me, too Honourable for a Punishment which ought to be more Exemplary. But why do I speak, having protested to suffer in Silence? I belie my own proposition, and fly into complaints, which cannot appear just without doing injury to your Prudence and Equity. Excuse, MADAM, the vehemency of my sorrow, since, seeing myself torn from the King, my Master, whose presence and favour I esteem more than my life, I feel my Heart rend in pieces, and my Soul separate from my Body. What Trophies will my Enviers raise to their Malignity, seeing their designs which aim at nothing but my ruin, take effect? What Vanity will puff up their poisonous Minds, that they have had the power to infect such clear Judgements as your majesty's, making their Calumnies prevail against my Innocence? But if sufficeth that it is your Will, I most humbly submit to the absolute Power you have over my Life, my Death, my Honour and my Fortune; for, being your Creature you may dispose of me, as the Potter of his Clay, forming me, according to your own pleasure, into a Vessel of Magnificence or Ignominy. I am ready to condemn my Innocency, whensoever you shall pronounce it guilty, and to subscribe my accusation without replying: And if you please to dictate the Sentence of my Death, I will write and sign it with my Blood, and willingly fulfil your decree with the loss of my Life: For, preserving it for no other end, than to employ it in your majesty's service, I cannot lose it more honourably, nor more advantageously than to content you. But since your Majesties have otherwise determined, and that I am reserved to live, that my Life may be as a lingering Death to me, I will yield shamefully to those who procure my Disgrace, choosing rather to fail by a faint hearted Obedience, than defend myself with a rebellious Generosity. Perhaps one day the Light may shine through the Darkness, and that Time, which maketh evident the most hidden things, drawing Truth out of the bottom of the Well, may render me worthy to appear again before your Majesty with so much Advantage, that my present Damage will seem as the seed of my future Prosperity.  
Imagine you if the Queen, being a virtuous and merciful Princess, and a Woman, of a tender Disposition and susceptible of Compassion, could hear this long discourse without being somewhat moved. So, for his farther satisfaction she gave him to understand, That she had been informed by the King, that this sending him into his Government was not intended through any dislike of theirs, but for reasons which regarded the State and the service of their Crown: Assuring him that for her part she had no prejudicial oinion of him, not suffering herself easily to be carried away by slight suppositions and false reports, (which like importunate wasps are always buzzing at the ears of Princes;) that he might remain assured, wherein she could procure him any advantage, or do him any good office to her Husband and Sovereign, that she would endeavour it with a sincere affection. To these words, which were worth mountains of Gold, she added no presents, because those pass away, but these remain, and being more material give more occasion of Suspicion, from which she desired to keep herself as free as she was from Crime. Thus Iphigenes in an unheard-of manner, was dismissed from Court, with extraordinary Caresses from both their Majesties, and (which was admirable) not dissembled. To demand permission to pass through Podolia, to take his wife thence with him into his Palatinate, and to obtain it, was all one. The Courtiers, those Protheusses, who change according to the inclination of their Prince, made (in imitation of the King) a thousand compliments to Iphigenes, and large expressions of sorrow, when some of their hearts leapt with joy at his departure.  
The false accusers of Socrates, Anitus and Melitus, seeing the universal mourning of the Athenians for the death of that great Philosopher, being haunted with Furies, and tortured with the remorse of their own Consciences, became their own Executioners. The Calumniators of our Favourite, were upon the point of giving themselves over to the like rage; but they did more wisely to reserve themselves to a better end by repentance. Those who thought to have pleased their Majesties in not accompanying Iphigenes, found themselves deceived in their opinions, receiving as little Countenance from the King, as they shown little Courtesy to him: And those who did that civility to him, were favourably looked upon at their return: But how were they esteemed and applauded that rendering themselves his constant followers, became partakers of his adverse, as well as of his  Fortune? They inverted the sense of this common saying, The Fortunate are oppressed with Multitudes, and Solitariness environeth the Miserable. Some Flies & now and then a Swallow is seen in winter, and their rarity maketh them the more remarkable. Those who abandon not their friends when Fortune knits her brows, show they are not led on by interest, but that affection to the persons beloved doth attract them. This apparent disgrace of Iphigenes did nothing diminish the ardent flames of the passionate Princess Respicia, all that troubled her was his ominous Journey into Podolia, which seemed to threaten the shipwreck of her pretensions. What will not a heart resolve being touched with that fire, which breeds the greater torment the more it is concealed? To hinder the Consummation of his Marriage with Modestina (which Mieslas had already prevented) she determined to follow Iphigenes and Mieslas into Podolia, under pretence of affiancing the Prince Cassin with Clemencia, and to endeavour to persuade Iphigenes to marry her Daughter Simphoroza, though there was nothing more far from her intention than the latter. If Modesty had permitted, she would have put herself amongst that troop of Courtiers that accompanied Iphigenes, amongst whom the Prince Cassin was the first in quality and in rank, taking this occasion to assist his future Brother-in-law, and see his Mistress. The brave Pomeran, inviolably wedded to the fortune of Iphigenes, was likewise of the number: As also Argal and Pisides (who being a Lord Castellain in the Palatinate of Vratislaü, and of an ancient family, resolved to employ all his own means, and use the utmost of his friend's power to serve Iphigenes after his arrival in his Government;) Besides a great train of other Noblemen and Gentlemen of Podolia, that returned from Court with Mieslas. Iphigenes in this pompous retirement was like a certain sort of Tapers, which composed of Aromatical ingredients, exhale not so much sweet odor burning, as when extinguished, or Incense which smoketh not until put on the coals, and spices that render no sent until they are beaten. This I say, because the reputation of Iphigenes was greater in his absence than in his presence, Privation making the enjoyment of him more valuable. And as a Beard grows thicker after shaving, so his Renown increased under the Razor of Detraction.  
Mieslas being entered into his Palatinate, made his Son be received with the greatest delights and honours that he could devise, but it was to make him taste Gall after this Honey, & give him an after course not conformable to this first▪ Service; for, being arrived at the place of his residence, he neither found his wife Modestina, nor his Brother-in-law Liante with Aretuza, whereat he expressed no slight discontent. And although by an especial providence of Heaven, Mieslas had enclosed Modestina in a place inaccessible by any force (which might serve for a specious pretext to Iphigenes to keep hid the defect which hindered him from acting the husband really) yet he feigned to be very sensible of the injury they did him in debarring him of the possession of Her, whom he could not enjoy in that quality he pretended, by reason of the obstacles which Nature had imposed at his Creation. His Mother to whom he communicated all his designs, could not enough admire with what grace and industry he concealed his condition, and dazzled the Eyes of such quicksighted overseers. Whilst he fumed and raged to have his Wife released (towards whom, if they had granted his request, he knew not how to behave himself as a Husband) Mieslas opposed the rigour of his Fatherly Authority, alleging, That his Marriage was made before the time, that the consentment of the parties at such tender years could be but imperfect, and therefore he held it as nothing; that the face of things being changed, he did revoke the consent which he had given to that Contract, having since engaged his word to the Princess Respicia. Then, being further importuned to set Modestina at liberty, he threatened his Son with fearful maledictions, if ever he took her as his Wife. Hereupon Iphigenes, handsomely feigning Scruples of Conscience, seemed to apprehend lest his Father's curses should light upon his Posterity, and absolutely ruin his Fortune, which already was shrewdly shaken; Insomuch that Mieslas perceiving that this battery made breach in Iphigenes Soul mounted no other Artillery, and employed no other Thunderbolts to reduce all his endeavours unto ashes.  
In the heat of these contestations arrived the Princess Respicia, bringing her Daughter Simphoroza, whose age being yet too near Infancy, was incapable, for certain years, of bearing Hymen's yoke. At her coming (as at the appearance of Porpoises a Tempest is observed to follow) Mieslas began again to storm and torment Iphigenes to marry Simphoroza. He alleged for excuse his Faith given to Modestina, that whom God hath joined, men could not separate, that nothing but death should break the Bands that united his heart to here's; besides, he would have persuaded them that he had in a manner passed to a perfect Consummation, and that she was not only his wife by words but in effect: But this was contradicted by Perpetua and Modestina herself, whose innocent deposition declared that she never knew what Man was. Respicia knowing, that as in Natural things the Corruption of the one, is the Generation of another; So in affairs, the Rupture of one, is the Accomplishment of another, urged nothing so eagerly as the Dissolution of this first Marriage.   

The Fourth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
The Result of the Divine's Consultation concerning the dissolution of the Marriage betwixt Iphigenes and Modestina. The Court-Maxime. Iphigenes object's the same Reason for not marrying Simphoroza, as was alleged by the Casuists against Modestina. Simphoroza being excepted against for her too tender years, Mieslas (by Respicia's instigation) propounds the Mother in the Daughter's place. Iphigenes' answer to his Father. Clemencia refuses to marry Cassin. The fury of Mieslas for her Obstinacy. Cassin having left Podolia discontented indeavour's all he can at Court to hinder his Mother's marriage with Iphigenes. Liante being escaped out of his Prison by means of his dear Brother-in-law Iphigenes is secretly conveyed into his Palatinate. Iphigenes retiring to his own Government leaves Aretuza as full of satisfaction, as Mieslas of Perplexity for the Crossness of his Children. Respicia, accompanied by Mieslas, returns with small contentment to the Court. Liante being arrived in the Palatinate of Plocens disguises himself in a Sheepheardesse's habit under the name of Almeria. Iphigenes loseth his company in Hunting to meet with his Almeria. Their Discourse. The Reason why Liante made use of that Disguise. Merinda Daughter to Celian, in whose House Liante concealed himself, falls in Love with the feigned Sheepheardess. She discover's her affection to him. The Character of Courtiers and Countrypeople.  
THere are in the World certain Divines à la mode, who can adapt the Scripture and the Fathers of the Church so dexterously to their own Fantasies, and to the palates of those that consult them, and whose passions they desire to flatter; that they fashion that Water of saving Wisdom to the form of the Vessel which receive's it, planting the Canons of the Church against such opinions as they list, and Levelling them in such sort as they Demolish, Edify, root up and set as they think fitting; Like Pilots who direct their Rudders in a straight and Obliqne line according to the Motion of the Waves that agitate their Ships. Iphigenes to whom all women were indifferent, for the reasons already declared (making no other Entrenchment than within the Fort of his Conscience) had that scruple cleared by a Consultation of Churchmen appointed by Respicia and Mieslas; The result whereof was, That in regard the Infantine age of the parties Contracted, being added to some kind of force used by the Contracter, Mieslas, rendered their consentment invalide, since the use of Bodies had not intervened they esteemed that Obligation void, and that without offence they might proceed to another Marriage; not considering, that as Contracts made by persons in Minority, do become valid when they do ratify them in their Majority, whereby an imperfect Consentment is made perfect and of full force, when at an age more mature and capable of approving it, It is confirmed and renewed by mutual promises: which had held undeniably in this case, if Iphigenes had been of a condition to take a wife, for as much as by divers letters written to Modestina and received from her, they had made a thousand and a thousand Oaths to each other of an inviolable Fidelity. But this Maxim is so strongly established at Court 
—— (the Powers above  
Laugh at the Oaths pronounced in heat of Love)  that when Iphigenes alleged Protestations beyond number, both verbal and under his hand, which he had made to Modestina, never to have any other wife but her, they scoffed at his words and letters as if they had been engraven on the Wind, and written on the Water. But they were to seek what to reply, when to their confusion their decision rebounded in their own faces; For, Iphigenes readily presented to them that Simphoroza was of years, not only incapable to consummate the marriage, but to give a full and perfect consent, without which (according to their own argument) that knot could not be rendered indissoluble. Hereupon the Princess Respicia made appear the subtlety of her wit, feigning, what she desired with impatience, to Subrogate herself in the place of her Daughter. This she intimated to Mieslas with so much Artifice, and such Prodigious advantages for Iphigenes (for the most part of the Estate came by her) that the Palatine of Podolia, naturally desirous of wealth to maintain his excessive expenses, was presently induced to hearken to her persuasions. On that side the business was as soon concluded as propounded; but they foresaw much difficulty to make the young Gentleman by't at this Golden Bait; for his own Estate was so plentiful, and his Honours so great, that how vast soever the Fortune of Respicia could be, and how illustrious her Alliance; if the Appast (which youthly Palates do relish with most greediness) composed of Beauty and Pleasure were wanting, it must needs be imagined that he would not easily be drawn into that Marriage, as unequal for years on the one side as on the other: For, as Simphoroza was too young, and her tender Beauty, being not yet full blown, did promise no great matter in the Bud; So her Mother was too old, though not so aged as to be rejected for ugly, nor so young as to be ranked amongst the Beautiful: She was in that Point as Women begin to leave the Attribute of Fair, to enter into the Predicament of Good. But being very Artificial, she had the Industry (without discovering that she Painted) advantageously to repair the damages which Age had done to her Presence, and doting upon her own Perfections, She gave such credit to the false Reports of her Looking. Glass, that she fancied herself to be the most lovely Creature breathing.  
IPHIGENES making a Buckler, against his Father's Importunities, of the Childhood of Simphoroza, Mieslas said unto him, And if I find you another Match Richer than she, and of mature Age, will you accept of her? Hereupon Iphigenes (to whom all Women were alike, for anything he had to do with them) to counterfeit the obedient Son, declaring out of Compliment, That he had no other Will then his, so that he would please to give him time to know before he Loved, there being nothing in the World so hard to do by Force, or in respect of Duty, as to Love. Mieslas, ravished with this Act of Obedience, after acknowledgement of the Immortal Obligations He would do him, if he would leave Modestina to marry one of the noblest and most opulent Ladies of Polonia (being lessoned before hand by the subtle Respicia) proposed by a thousand crafty circumlocutions the Mother in stead of the Daughter; and setting out her Beauty (like flattering Painters) with the Pencil of his Tongue, and magnifying her Riches with the Eloquence of a mouth of Gold, he endeavoured to provoke Iphigenes appetite to relish that stolen Fruit, and make him take a commodity that was not for his utterance. A modest blush covering his delicate Cheeks at the recital of this Proposition; What? said Mieslas, you do like those foolishly nice Virgins that are dashed out of Countenance, when one speaks to them of a Husband. Indeed your Enviers at Court were mistaken in the term, when they called you Effeminate, since you make so little account of Women, as to blush with shame when they are but mentioned. Truly Sir, replied IPHIGENES (the Blood rising faster in his Face, because his Father had taken notice of that Girlish Action) me thinks (as that Ancient who would not be persuaded to marry, answered those that urged him thereunto in his youth, that it was yet too son, and in his old Age, that it was then too late) I may freely say, that as it is not yet time for the Daughter to dream of Marrying, so it is more than time that the Mother should leave such thoughts; the one is too young, the other too far advanced in years (for the word Old is injurious to that Sex,) and both of them (if I have any Judgement) are very unfit for me: I have Riches and Honours more than I need, & being by favour of Fate begotten by you, the alliance of a Wife can add nothing to the nobleness of my Extraction, nor of my Posterity. In Marriage is required not only an augmentation of Fortune, but the equality of Age and Humours.  
This Discourse so displeased the arrogant Mieslas, who invoking Heaven and Earth against his Son, loaded his Rebellion with Imprecations, and fulminated a thousand execrable curses against his Disobedience; Iphigenes feigning to be afraid of those Threats and terrible Thunderclaps of his Father's wrath, beseeched him to pardon him, if he had declared his sense so plainly, knowing that the first Ideas are generally but little Judicious, and how the first Motions are not in our Powers. That Reason did oblige him to acknowledge the Beauty, Nobleness, and Eminent advantages of the Princess Respicia; but that the Sense surprising for the most part the Judgement, it arrives ofttimes that upon second thoughts we desire with ardour, what at the first we too inconsiderately rejected: That He knew Matrimony to be so sage a Bargain, that therein was not to be given so much access to Appetite as to Prudence; That great Personages ought to hearken thereunto more out of Maxim of State, than for the consideration of Flesh and Blood, and that he did desire only some time to reflect seriously thereupon, and give his resolution. This satisfaction being speedily applied to the wound in Mieslas his choleric breast, took away all the pain and inflammation in a moment.  
When Iphigenes had the full liberty of his thoughts, I give you leave to Judge what his Imaginations were of Respicia's Designs, all whose deportments repassing through his Memory, he easily gathered by her former Discourses to him at the Court, that being enamoured of the Beauty which appeared in his Face, she had disguised her own Pretences under the Marriages of her Son and Daughter; and then making reflection further upon the weakness of a Sex accompanied with such cunning Plots, he regretted that Nature having endued his Mind with such a Masculine Courage, had ranked his Body in so miserable a Condition: At last, resolving never to deceive any other Woman than Modestina, and in regard if he married Respicia, his Secret would soon be divulged, he thought it most conducing to his purpose, to thrust back Time by the Shoulders, and amuse her with delays. This Design he imparted to Aretuza, who much approved his ingenuity; and you may guests, if knowing (as they did) the truth of Iphigenes Disguisement, they had not occasion enough to make their Pastime of the Princess' Pain: Who being full of Vanity, seeing herself Courted by Iphigenes with some little show of Passion, conceited presently that, Basilisk like, she had wounded him in the Eyes; which Opinion transported her into follies more extravagant than can been imagined; But I will leave them at the end of my Pen, not to verify this saying of a certain Author, That there is nothing more ridiculous than a decrepit Soldier and an aged Lover. Mean time Iphigenes protracted the determination of his resolution, having his brains more troubled about procuring the liberty of his dear Liante. To demand that grace of his Father upon the nick of Clemencia's Marriage to the Prince Cassin, were to put him quite off the hooks; besides, to break that affection between his Sister and that beloved Brother-in-Law, he thought it material, first to let that Alliance betwixt the Prince and her be fully concluded, wherein Mieslas did labour all he could.  
We have already said that Clemencia enjoyed not so much outward Beauty, as inward Virtue; and that if Liante had any Inclination for Her, it was, because Obliged by her Affection & Cordiality to him. But Cassin, who had seen so many objects at Court more worthy to stay his thoughts, did look upon her merely to please his Mother, and to satisfy the ambitious Desire He had of raising himself to high Commands by the support and favour of Iphigenes, who being then retired from the Court, which is the Country of Occasions, and the Field where Dignities are reaped, this made the Prince more cold in his pursuit. Nevertheless having embarked himself in that Voyage, and being advanced to offers of Service to Her, and Terms of Agreement with Mieslas, there was no possibility of his receding, without offending the Palatine, who had given Him his Word, and to whom He had reciprocally passed His. Besides that, His Mother, who was entered into some hope of possessing Iphigenes (which She kept close enough from His knowledge) egged Him daily on to finish that Treaty. Iphigenes on the other side (being importuned by Mieslas to the re-search, or more properly, the Acquisition of Respicia) found an expedient, (for his own respect) to procrastinate that business; which was thus.  
His Marriage with Modestina had been celebrated publicly and with Solemnity; therefore for his own Justification, and the good of his Posterity, it was requisite that it should be declared void by public Authority; for the effecting whereof they must have recourse to Rome, He being of Opinion that in mean time they should proceed to the accomplishment of his Sister's Marriage to Cassin. That shall be no hindrance, replied Mieslas, if that be all: And Respicia, more glad than if she had gained an Empire, could not hold her Heart from Dancing for joy assoon as She heard this news flattering herself that to Demand and Obtain that Dissolution was but one and the same thing. Whilst the Messenger was posting to Rome, the Parents laboured to effect the Marriage of the Prince and Clemencia: But the mutual consent of the Parties, being that which fasten's the Knot, it was traversed by the resistance of Clemencia, who refused to subscribe that Contract, declaring freely to her Father, that her Heart was Liante's, and that she would be wedded to a Cloister with her Elder Sisters, or have him for her Husband. Judge you what an impetuous storm of indignation risen in the Palatine's tempestuous Spirit, seeing himself contradicted by a simple Girl in two things which were extremely sensible to him: The one, that Liante should leave his Ecclesiastical Vocation (which he had forced him to embrace) to Marry his Daughter without making him acquainted; The other, that she should deny a Prince, who in his Opinion did her too much Honour, and to whom he had engaged his Promise. His Fury grew to such Excess, that He spoke of nothing but dipping his Hands in her Blood, to punish her for a Rebellion which he deemed worthy of no less than Death. And in effect if she had not been withdrawn out of his Presence, probably he would have committed some notorious scandal. He cursed and fumed against those that hindered him from tearing her in pieces, and turning himself with Eyes casting Flames of Rage towards Aretuza, Thus (said he) you bring up your Daughters: Go, and if you make her not change her Note, and crave pardon for her obstinate refusal, hope for nothing from me but most-rigorous usage, and to end your Days by some memorable punishment. I'll teach you to obey me, or I'll make you measure the Ground with your extended Corpse. Thus did the irritated Podolian vent his Choler, whilst the Prince Cassin without uttering one Syllable did lose himself in the confusion of his thoughts. What? said he within himself, Am I come so far to receive an Affront, to gather the Relics of a dying Favour, and suffer a repulse from a Creature that hath neither Beauty nor Riches capable to attract my Love, that surpasseth me neither in Birth nor Breeding; and must I return to serve for a Fable and Laughingstock to the whole Court? Oh Mother! In what a business have have you embarked me? Oh Ambition! upon what Rocks of ignominy dost thou precipitate me?  
Respicia on the other side was no less perplexed, this presaged no good to her Pretences; for, as She believe That one of these Alliances being accomplished, might be a means to further the other, So, she feared that the dissolution of This, would be the destruction of That which she most desired. At length Clemencia proved like a Leaf, that is moved with every breath of Wind. For, Aretuza knowing the secret of Iphigenes, and seeing into what Extremities Passion was likely to transport Mieslas, if She persevered in that Disobedience, Prayed her, Preached to her, and tormented her so much, that in the end she tore a kind of Consent from her, like to the second Myrrh, which drops not from the Tree but by violent Scratching and Raking with Teeth of Iron. Cassin who would not possess the Body, when another enjoyed the Heart, not to join (as it were) the Living with the Dead, carried himself with extreme coldness in this Treaty, which he signed only out of compliance to his Mather's Will, who never ceased conjuring him; And Clemencia (with a thousand Tears, witnesses of her unwillingness) did the like, by the absolute command of her imperious Father. These were very discordant Accords, and which (if no other Tune were added) will never make any good Music. But that which ruined all was, when Cassin came to the knowledge of his Mother's Affections to Iphigenes, and how she managed the Accomplishment of her own desires under the Name of Simphoroza; For, judging how ruinous her second Marriage might prove to him, according to that Maxim, which saith, That She who re-marrieth, declareth War against the Children of her first Bed; He resolved to return to the Court, and use all possible means by his Interest and Credit with His Majesty to hinder that Marriage of Iphigenes and His Mother. So, leaving Mother, Mistress, Mieslas and all Podolia, he posted away to the Court without acquainting any of them with his Departure. In what confusion Respicia remained, you may better Imagine than I Describe, when she saw her Practices Discovered, which she had, till then, carried on with such circumspection. Iphigenes hereupon had a fair pretence to personate the Malcontent, and defer those Matrimonial Ceremonies until better opportunity, alleging that during his Exile (so he termed his Retirement from Court) he esteemed it not fit to Talk or Think of Marrying, no more than to wear Green for mourning; besides, that his Enemies might take occasion from thence to possess the King, that he made little account of his Disgrace, since, he passed the time in Feasting, Magnificence and Jollity.  
That which made Iphigenes fullest of Care and Pensiveness, was Liante's Imprisonment, the enlargement of whom He Resolved to procure by some Invention or other, or to perish in the attempt. What need is there of Strength, or Stratagems? Gold doth all. There's no Place impregnable to him that shoots Golden Bullets; no Castle so strongly fortified, but is Accessible and Penetrable by a Mule loaden with that metal, as said a certain King of the Mecedonians. With these Suns of Darkness, he dazzled the Eyes of Liante's Keepers, and made him Escape away so handsomely, that it seemed to have been rather by his own Industry, than through any Negligence of theirs: And by the intercourse of Boleslaüs, his faithful Foster-Father, underhand he conveyed to him all things necessary for a Journey into his Palatinate, where he gave him a secret Rendez-vous, and followed him some few days after, leaving Aretuza full of Consolation to see him so well educated, and yet in mervellous perplexity of Mind, knowing that shortly all the Mystery, which had so long been concealed, would be discovered: But she was somewhat eased by the assurance which Iphigenes gave her, of being careful above all things to preserve his Honour, which was no less Recommendable to him than his Life.  
Mieslas, who formerly did so rail at Aretuza, now (like a Cupping-glass) had drawn all the trouble upon himself: For, the Prince Cassin's going away Discontented; Clemencia's Passion for Liante, which (as she witnessed by her Sighs and Tears) was unremovable; Liante's escape out of Prison; Iphigenes' Displeasure for Modestina's severe confinement, who could no more be thrust out, than Respicia or Simphoroza be received into his Heart; the Princess' affliction for all these confused Imbroilments: And lastly, the apparent Disgrace of his Son, having lost the King's Favour and Presence; All these happening upon the Neck of one another, put his Wisdom to seek a Determination. After long Raving, and not finding any Thread to draw him out of this Labyrinth, He resolved to return with the Princess Respicia to Court, to see how his Son's business stood there, and to hinder Calumny from prevailing so much against his Innocency, as to cause the time of his Relegation to be lengthened, knowing well that those Regions which are most remote from the Sun are both Cold and Barren, and that by the long continuance of Frost, the Ice turns into Crystal, which the Rays of the Prince of the Stars are not able to dissolve. King's are commonly like Nurses, who care for their Foster-childrens no longer than they are hanging at their Breasts; For they cherish their Favourites, but while they are in their Sight: Absence with its insensible Sponge effaceth them by little and little out of their Memories.  
It is so ordinary a thing for Children to complain, when their Mothers fly to a second Hymen, that it is no wonder if Respicia at her return found all the Court possessed with the news of her new Flames, which by her usual subtleties she endeavoured to smother: And to stop the Current of that Opinion, she said, That the putting of herself in her Daughter's place, was only to amuse Iphigenes, and to gain the time which was necessary for the annulling of his Marriage with Modestina, and that having him sure by an Agreement, it would be easy for her, Simphoroza being grown to a competent Age, to remit her in her place to accomplish the Contract with Iphigenes, blaming her Son for taking with the Lefthand her Right intentions. This Excuse she covered with so much Art (as she plastered her Face with Painting) that as this made her seem Beautiful though she was not, so that gave her Speech an apparent show of Truth, though in effect it was clean contrary. That in private she rebuked with vehemency the Prince, her Son, threatening to deprive him of the Succession of her Estate, for having endeavoured to cast dirt in his Mother's Face, I make no difficulty to believe: for, such vain and haughty Spirits, as here's, suffer not without resentment the least Affronts or Obloquys. And He, who desired no better than the public Declaration which she made, of not pretending to break her Widowhood, made her all the Satisfactions his filial obsequiousness could suggest, which she included all in this one Condition, That he should not disclaim the Agreement made with Clemencia; For, holding him fast tied with the Band of that Alliance, it would be more easy for her (she conceived) to recover the Track of her former Chase. As for Mieslas he was received into the same Rank he had before in the King's Council, and his Majestice communicated his designs more particularly to him, to the end he might understand thereby, that the dismissing of his Son Iphigenes was not any Disgrace, but a Remedy rather to dissipate the clouds which Detraction had suscitated betwixt Him and the Queen.  
A Courtier Enured to the tricks and Policies practised in King's Palaces, hath incomparable Industries and ways to pick open the Secrets of the Mind's Cabinet. Mieslas did so much by his Inquests & close following, that he discovered the Match, and by the Train found out the whole Mine. It being an ordinary thing amongst Traitors to appeach one another, some of the malicious Cabal of Calumniators, thinking to insinuate with Iphigenes, (whose credit in Court they saw was nothing diminished by his absence) revealed to Mieslas, to the prejudice of their Companions, the whole Imposture concerning his Son, and what Stratagem they had used to work him out of the King's favour. Mieslas having heard all the passages from point to point, evidently perceived, by the several discourese which he had observed to fall now and then by piece-meal as well from the Queen's mouth as the King's, that his Informers did not amuse him with fopperies, but touched the matter home.  
Iphigenes in mean time arrived in his Palatinate of Vratislaü, with a Train and Equipage little Inferior to the King's, not unlike to those vast Rivers which overflowing their banks carry away all they meet in their Course through the Valleys, or those Massy pieces of Rock which falling from the ridge of a Steep Mountain, tumble before and draw after them a multitude of other small Stones. A great number of the Gentry of Podolia, conducted him to the Confines of Vratislaü, where he was received by the Lords-Castellains and Gentlemen of his own Government, with such applause and joy, that it was plainly to been seen his Favour was not Extinguished neither in the opinion of the Nobles nor Comon-People. The King had by express letters commanded all the Towns in his Palatinate to render him the same Honours as to his Royal person, promising to acknowledge and gratify those that respected him, whom He esteemed.  
Among all the Noblemen and persons of note about Iphigenes, Pomeran, Argal and Pisides appeared like great Planets among the smaller Stars, which in a Serene Night are seen twinkling in the Firmament. Nevertheless Courtesy and Civility, (which polish the Spirits of Courtiers, and make a Visible distinction betwixt them and the Country Gentry) were held in such recommendation by those Gallants, that in stead of Slighting or Scoffing at those who were so much their Inferiors, they treated them with such endearing Affability, that they made a Conquest of Hearts for the Palatine, so considerable, that within very short time he had a most absolute power in his Province. In a select place whereof Liante having made his retreat, expecting an opportunity to confer with Iphigenes, judged it his securest way to avoid all sort of suspicion, to disguise himself in the habit of a Country Wench: of which design he advertised the Palatine by Letters, who applauded much the Invention.  
LIANTE having left all those of his attendance in a neighbouring Town, retired himself to a Country Farmer's House in a little Village within the Forest, (having first dazzled the Clown's eyes with that Metal, whose Power dimmeth the clearest sights, and makes tongues Silent, or speak what the giver listeth) where he took the charge of his Cattle in quality of a Shepherdess. And Iphigenes (after he had received the first Honours of his Charge, and that by several Magnificent Banquets, Balls, Tournaments, and other public rejoicings, those of that Province had expressed the contentment which they received in seeing themselves subjected to so sweet a Government as his) for his ordinary divertisement made choice of the pleasure of Hunting, which is generally affected by great persons, because in Peace it makes them see some shadow of their profession of War, and entertain's their high Spirits with more Generosity than any other recreation: The Towns seemed Prisons to him, the Fields and Woods a Paradise. For, being deprived at one time of both those Luminaries, which enlightened his thoughts, Love and the Court; I mean, the two Objects of his Ambition and Affection, the King and Liante, He became like a Flower without the Dew, and the Earth without Water; Insomuch that it might easily be gathered by the alteration of his Complexion, that there was no small disturbance in his Mind. And to confess the truth, if either of those Passions alone be sufficient to trouble the firmest brain, what disquietness will they cause being joined together? The pain which proceeds from the desire of Glory, and of possessing the most eminent Dignities, is a great Torment to a generous Soul; And if you add the Interest of Riches, which are as the Bones and Sinews to sustain that Greatness, you will render the sorrow for the privation of these two things very vehement: But amongst people of no mean Judgements, the grief which the absence of a beloved Object doth engender in the mind, is esteemed the least supportable. You may imagine then in what a Tempest was Iphigenes Spirit agitated, having before his eyes neither of those favourable Stars, which only could procure his Calm, the Royalty of his Prince, nor the Loyalty of Liante, Liante the King of his Affection, nor the King the Object of his Ambition. But where Love presides, all other Passions must give place: The loss of Iphigenes' hopes in Court was less sensible to him in the obscurity of this Exile, enjoying Liante's presence, than the want of his beloved sight was in the midst of all his Honours and Delights at the height of his Favour.  
BOLESLAUS, the faithful Depositary of all his Secrets, who was not Ignorant of the just pretensions he had for Liante, (wherein as in all other occurrences, aiming at nothing but his contentment, he disposed himself to serve him) by his frequent coming and going to the Hamlet, where Liante (under the name of ALMERIA) kept himself concealed, prepared an Interview for these two dear friends. By whose directions Iphigenes went so many times a hunting that way, that at length in despite of all his followers (who never lost sight of him) he happily lost himself to find out the Canton, where his Shepherdess fed her gentle Flock. Let all those, who are not Ignorant of the Effects of a sincere Friendship, be Judges of the resentments of those two Souls at this meeting, so Long expected, so Ardently desired, and effected no less Successfully than contrived with Dexterity. For, to relate you here all their indearing speeches in entertaining each other, would be perhaps to say much to little purpose, and fill these Pages, which are not destined (as not desired) for any other end, than to represent the Event of their Adventures. Only in two words I may say, that their Minds discharged themselves in each other's Bosom of that weighty Burden of Thoughts, which they had been breeding ever since their Separation. Iphigenes first giving Liante an account of the divers Traverses, that Fortune, sometimes Kind, sometimes Cruel, had made him Undergo at Court, which is the Theatre, whereon, to the View of the whole World, she doth expose her most Extravagant actions. There he displayed the several successes of the King's Favour; the Queen's Courtesy; the Envy of the Grandees; the Calumny of Malign Spirits; the Passions of the Ladies; the Jealousy of Augustus and his being Banished; his Encounter with Scanislas, whose Palatinate he enjoyed, having taken his life; the subtle deportments of the Princess Respicia; his being dismised from Court, by a Plot which had been discovered to him by Mieslas since his arrival at Vratislaü; In sum, he gave him an abridgement of every passage mentioned in this Narration, with divers other particulars which were too tedious to rehearse.  
LIANTE reciprocally acquainted him with the misery and discontents which he had received by his absence, the bitterness whereof he was in hopes somewhat to mitigate by the sweetness of the affections, which he had cast into his Soul for the amiable Clemencia, whose Goodness, Constancy, and fervent Love he felt himself obliged to cherish, besides the passionate Ambition he had of having a double relation to him, by the alliance of his Sister Modestina (for whose sake he highly applauded his withstanding so may assaults) and by that which he desired to Contract with Clemencia; wherereunto, if he were not incited by that Glory, He should however esteem himself engaged (unless he would incur the Repute of the most Ingrateful amongst Men) for the firm Resistance which she had made, notwithstanding all the Rigours of her severe Father, showing the Excellency of her Courage, in that (to maintain the Faith which she had so many times sworn to him) she did refuse a Prince, who in Birth, Quality, and Estate, was far more considerable than he, to whom the violent usurpation of Mieslas had left nothing but Alexander's Portion, Hope. From this Passion which he expressed for Iphigenes' Sister, and which served as a Charm in his Melancholic restraints, He fell to the Treason of Perpetua and his Governor, (so he termed the discovery of his Letters, under whose Ashes they disclosed his Fire;) thence to the Castle, where the Cruelty of Mieslas had kept him so close Prisoner, and from which he owed his releasement to Iphigenes, whom he styled his Deliverer, his Brother, his Master, the Star of his Hope, with as many other sweet Appellations as an Entire Friendship could suggest, which made his Friend clearly see the Profound Resentments of his Soul for this last Obligation, which was the greater, in regard Liberty is sweeter than Life.  
Whereunto Iphigenes replied, That that was but the door of the building of that great Fortune, whereunto He intended to raise him, if letting lie dormant for a while his Pretensions to Clemencia (wherein he saw so many oppositions) he would give ear to his Counsels, by which he would render him the greatest man in Polonia. Iphigenes said this, because, as ordinarily we are aptest to put our hands upon the place that pain's us most, the strong Inclination which Liante revealed for Clemencia, bred a jealous Apprehension in his Breast, lest his Heart being prepossessed, could not admit of his Affection in that just manner he desired, and you may easily Conjecture. As a great Light doth dim a less, and (according to the Proverb) one Nail drives out another: So it is seldom seen that two Violent Passions do reign together in one Heart, the Bed is two narrow to receive them both. Where Love hath the Empire, Vanity must yield: For that Quality which causeth Love, hath little Ambition. But where that aspiring desire of Honours hath the Ascendant, Love must deliver his Arms. And whatsoever the Fable telleth us of the Association of Mars and Venus, it is hard to find them together, as Vulcan did, without rendering them ridiculous; These Planets in their Aspects have never any favourable Conjunction; for, how can one join two things so directly contrary, as the Exercises of War and Peace? The Judgement of Paris doth sufficiently demonstrate, that the Apple could not be divided, but that either Glory (which is denoted by Pallas and Juno) must give place to Pleasure; or that Delights must yield to the Desire of Honours: For, as there is no entrance into the Temple of Honour, but by the door of Virtue, so there is no admittance into the Temple of Virtue, but through the Porch of Labour. This I say, because Liante, who was more Ambitious than Amorous (quite contrary to Iphigenes) catched with both hands at his Brother's propositions, promising him not to think of Clemencia any father than his Commandments or Permission should allow, remitting his Fortune solely to his Conduct, and esteeming it a great happiness to attend on him in quality of a Servant, and depend absolutely upon his Will. O Iphigenes how sweetly did these last words flatter thy Imagination, since this Shaft hit so directly the Blank of all thy thoughts?  
As Iphigenes had even upon the Brink of his Lips the discovery of his Project to advance Liante in the World, (which was the point that tickled most his generous Heart, therein not unlike Virgins, whose Sensual Temptations are the more pressing, because they fancy the Nuptial pleasures to be far greater than they are:) Fortune, like the Sea which never keep's its face long Calm, thwarted the impatient desire of our disguised Shepherdess, to make her know that in this transitory dwelling we have nothing perfect, that the fairest days are followed by Nights, the sweetest flowers environed with Thorns, and no Honey to be gotten without some Stinging. For, as he had assembled all the faculties of his Soul in his Ears, to hear what his Brother had designed for his Promotion, the winding of the Hunter's Horns, making the Forest resound with a thousand Echoes, gave them notice that the Game was not far off. So that, not to be surprised together, they were enforced to part not without promising to meet again with the first conveniency. The Huntsmen, who were more in pain for the straying of their Master, than their missing of the Stag, whose Strain they could not find, all their Hounds being at a loss, seemed to ask news with their Horns and Hollows of the Palatine, who rushing through the thickets to the place of the noise, found his Men, but no Game; With whom he returned as much contented that he had seen Liante, as little satisfied for having discovered that he retained yet so much Passion for his Sister Clemencia.  
The Reader perchance will think strange why these Brothers should use such Circumspection in their Interviews, in regard Iphigenes, as well as other Palatines, being very powerful, and in a manner Sovereign in his Palatinate, might have made Liante of his Train, and protected him in his own Palace. But what safeguard or Protection can shelter a man from Traitors, and secure him from the hands of those who Persecute him by ways the more dangerous, because least known? you are then to take notice, that as soon as Liante had made his escape out of Prison by means of his dear Brother-in-law, Miestas (whose Rigour and Cruelty passed the quality of a Sarmatian, and who from the beginning did express an unheard-of malice against this Innocent Youth) gave Commission to several murderous Villains, who bond themselves by Execrable Oaths to bring him back to Prison, or if they could not take him alive, to bring him his head, and in case they could not accomplish this by force, that they would make use of Policy and Poison. In this Barbarism the Savage Podolian had two ends; One, to hinder Liante from pretending to his Daughter, and that being out of the World his consideration should be no hindrance to her Alliance with Cassin, which he exceedingly desired: The other, to gain his whole Inheritance to himself, by muing up in a Monastery with his other Daughters the unfortunate Modestina. Iphigenes having got an inkling of this accursed Conspiracy, gave notice thereof to Liante, which obliged him to conceal and Disguise himself, as is said. For if he had been known, how could he have secured himself from the Ambushes of Murderers, who founding their Fortunes upon his Death, would always have been Levelling at him, and held him in continual fear? Was not this apprehension, together with the difficulty he had to accost Iphigenes (who was his only Solace and Refuge) enough to afflict this young Spirit, but the Fates must persecute him with further Disasters, and assail him with unsavoury Rustic importunities in his Disguisement?  
The Countryman, in whose House he had retired himself, being a Widower, committed the managing of all his Husbandry and Household to the charge of a Son, yet unmarried, and two Daughters ready to be Married; the Elder whereof (named Merinda) he was constrained to acquaint with the secret of Liante, telling her that he was a young Man, who having committed a Murder, was fled for shelter in his Cottage, and that to avoid the hands of Justice, he was advised to disguise himself: therefore he willed her to help him to a Country Wenche's habit, and he would entertain him to keep his Cattles in nature of a Shepherdess; Enjoining her to be silent under pain of his Displeasure, and making her understand besides, the great profit they should gain thereby, he being a Rich Man's Son, and who might be very beneficial to them. Merinda put this Coal into her bosom, I should say, this secret; but it is all one for a Maid to hold the one or the other: yet I spoke in some kind more properly than I was ware. For, Judge you, if it was not to put a Coal (and of the hottest too) in the bosom of a lusty Lass, the giving her a handsome young Man for a constant Companion. In sum, the Face of the feigned Almeria, insensibly made impression in Merinda's Heart, which put her in the like Condition as those that are stung with a certain venomous Creature, known in Italy by the Name of TARANTOLA, whose pricking, because not to be perceived upon the skin, the affected place is never discovered by any swelling, until the venom hath possess't the Heart and become remediless; Sight and Conversation are the two Wings of Love, which beating the Wind make the flame kindle. Merinda was all on fire, and reduce almost to Ashes, before her little wit perceived the Burning.  
Fire is hard to take in great pieces of Wood; but if it be once lighted, it is not easily quenched. This Element is so active, that in Penetrate's and melt's the hardest Metals, it calcine's Stones, no substance is able to resist its vivacity: But that which causeth Love, is yet far more subtle. For it is so generally spread through the whole Universe, that the Ancient Philosophers esteemed it the Soul of the World. Therefore the Poets did Marry Olympus with Rhea, intimating that it was the Ligature of Heaven and Earth. It burns the Fishes in the midst of the Waters, the Birds cannot avoid it in the Air, and much less the Creatures that are more Terrestrial. Flints have secret sparkles in their hard Bodies, and if Mankind were repaired by them, according to the fabulous Invention of Deucalion and Pyrrha, yet should they be sensible of the Motions and Heat of Love. What wonder then if Merinda, who was not composed of Marble, did feel the Effects of this all-conquered Fire, being taken with the Graces of the amiable Liante? I will not stand to describe the Symptoms, whereby his quick-sightedness read her Disease; but if She was forbidden to communicate to any other the Disguisement of Almeria, without Disguisement She manifested her own Passion to him with as few Words as much Sincerity, telling him that she loved him. I might give the Reader some Recreation here, if I would extend myself in her Homely and Natural Expressions; For, as her Face (being no less exposed to the inclemency of the Air than the Shephard's Tabernacles, or the Skins of Solomon) was without Painting; So her Discourse was without any Artificial Contexture.  
What pleasure, do you imagine, was this to Almeria (thus we must call Liante as long as he shall continue in his Sheperdesse's Weeds) to see herself Courted in this manner by her whom she called Cousin? (for Celian, Merinda's Father, commanded his Daughters to use that term to her, saying he was her Uncle, as Liante had desired him.) This pleasant humour contributed not a little to the diverting of the Melancholy, which otherwise would have overwhelmed his Heart in that solitary Residence, especially being in a Condition, which was as strange as difficult to him, to personate a Sex whereof he never had studied the Deportments. However the Cassack, which he had been forced to wear, made him the sooner acquainted with the long Coats, and the Modesty which had been taught him afforded some Decency to his Transformation. Almeria thinking only to make a pastime of Merinda's absurd Passion, pestered herself in the greatest intricacy imaginable; for, as there is no great difference betwixt Folly and Fury, nor far from Fury to Despair, that little Spark was enough to cause a furious Flame. For, suffering the innocent Wench to entangle herself in her Nets, and feigning to hearken to her Reasons, embarked her so deep in the pursuit, that she could not live without the conversation of this new Cousin. And as the Fire doth refine Iron until it becometh Steel, so Love sharpening the Wits of those whom it possesseth, gives them more Penetrating Reasons, then are observed to proceed commonly from cold and raw Judgements. Which if you will have confirmed by Example, hear what Merinda said one day to Almeria, as they were sitting alone under the shade of a great Elm-tree, whilst their Sheep were feeding.  
Although I am a Woman, do not you think good Sir, that I can keep a secret no more than a Sieve hold Water, for I would rather endure my Soul to be torn out of my Body, than suffer that to come out of my Mouth, which my Father hath committed to my Silence. You may assure yourself, that never any disaster shall befall you through fault of my fidelity, I would rather embrace death a thousand times, than harbour so unworthy a thought. And to let you see, for all I am but a Country-Girl, that my Soul is seated in a good place (and indeed it is well-seated, since it is wholly fixed to your Perfections) I pray hear what project is come into my Fancy, and which I will freely put in Execution, if you are so contented. You can pretend nothing more in the World, since, having killed a Man of greater quality than yourself (as my Father hath informed me) it is to be supposed that all your Estate is confiscate, all your Hopes lost, and that the Justice, which is so rigorous in this Country, hath not pardoned your Memory, but hath done some public ignominy to your Effigies, not being able to light upon your Body to punish it according to the Laws. Therefore as you have covered yourself with my Cleaths to secure your Person, give leave to the Passion which I suffer for you, that I may make use of yours (which I have carefully locked up) to venture my Life by going to take down that shameful Picture, which without doubt serving as a spectale to all Passengers, tarnisheth the lustre of your Reputation and dishonoureth your Glory. I believe you did not commit that Homicide treacherously, but that it was in your own Defence, or in running half the Danger; the Deportments which I have remarked since I frequent your Company, give me a strong confidence that you have too much Gallantry in your mind, to do an Act unbeseeming a Man of Honour. If I should be surprised in this Exploit, which will offend the Justice (the torments, that I shall endure being a Testimony of my Affection to you) I shall expire contented: for, not being worthy enough to live to, and with you I shall be glad to die for you, and make you see by my constancy that in a rustic Body there is some spark of Generosity.  
Almeria hearing such Language fall from that Silly Countrywenche's Tongue, was no less astonished than Esop's Cock, that scraped a Pearl out of a Dunghill; or to speak more Religiously, than the high- Priest, when he found the Sacred Fire in the Mud. But why so amazed Almeria? Do not you know that Love is the true source of Hippocrene, the true top of Parnassus, that the Ecstasies of this Passion are as many Enthusiasms which raise the Soul above itself; and that as a Squib flieth from the Earth into the Sky, assoon as the Fire is applied to its Train, So the clownishest Bodies do become gentile, and the dullest Spirits subtilised, when once they are touched with this fire? Can you imagine a more Natural and a more generous manner of discovering an ardent Affection, or of demonstrating at the same time that one loveth not verbally, but in effect, and the most signalised of Effects (which is to expose one's Life for the party Beloved) than that which Merinda used to manifest to Almeria, the Fire, which she had some time kept hidden under the Ashes of Discretion? Indeed there are some Productions of Nature so admirable, which all the Art in the World can never reach with imitation. At Court they talk of nothing but Despair, pour our such deep Protestations, as make the Hearers tremble, and Death, whom one of the Ancients called the Deity of Lovers, is invoked every Moment; There it is ordinary to threaten to cast themselves away; to thrust their Souls out of their Bodies at a Sword's Point; they exclaim against Rigours; call Honour Cruelty, and the Impatience of Desires an insupportable Torment; their Tears are feigned, their Terms Specious; But all that is but vain babbling, a motion of the Lips, not of the Heart, an idle Resignment, no real Resentment; They say enough, but see who perform's: Fidelity is only in their words, Infidelity in their Actions; Loyalty in their professions, Treason in the Execution; Purity in their Tongues, and base Designs in their thoughts; In sum, Fraud and Duplicity are the Pastimes of Courtiers, but their end is the ruin of Hearts, and the Poison of Souls. Amongst Country People it is clean otherwise, their , Diet, Lodgings, Industries, all are plain and simple, So are their say and their meanings; what they have upon their Lips comes from the profoundest of their thoughts, not belying by their proceed the Union which Nature hath made of the Root of the Tongue with the Heart. So that Almeria easily perceiving the reality of Merinda's Passion, and being moved with Compassion to see that She fruitlessly aimed at an Object beyond her Port, and that her Desires were supported more by the Wings of Love, than of Ambition, thought herself obliged to esteem her Courage, and repay her Affection with this Answer.  
Dear Merinda, I fear I shall never be able to do any thing for you, that can countervail the Obligations I have to you already, without adding this incomparable Testimony of your Affection, offering to expose your Life for the defence of the Shadow of my Honour. It would be too sensible a displeasure to me, that you should employ your Body for a Fantome, for so I call the Execution of an Image, or rather imaginary Revenge, which the Rigour of Justice may exercise against me in my absence: as for my true Honour, it is out of all danger, in regard it was rather to defend than offend, that I did kill my Enemy: But his Kindred are so powerful, that they will weigh down the Scale of Justice, and reduce me to the greatest extremity, that disasters can compel an unfortunate Man to undergo. Therefore I pretend to nothing now in my Country, nor to my Estate, but shall think myself happy enough if with preservation of my Life, I can secure my Person from those ignominious Torments, which my Adversaries would make me suffer, if I fell into their Hands, who seek to glut their revengeful Spirits with my Blood. This is the Reason which made me have recourse to the Fidelity of your Father and you, not contenting myself to embrace a Condition so much below that, unto which by the Favour of Heaven I have hitherto been educated, but by changing my Habit to render myself under this Disguise less Subject to the strokes of Fortune. As for the service you proposed to do me in tearing down my Effigies from an infamous place, I believe that endeavour will be needless, for my own Kindred interessed by that dishonour to their Family, have doubtless  this used means to take away that disgraceful Remembrance. But wherefore do I call it disgraceful, since the Infamy is in the Fact, not in the Punishment? So that not feeling any remorse in my Soul for that, I ought not to esteem this any Disparagement; quite contrary when I recall to my memory with what valour I prevented the Assassinate which was intended to my Person, and how I behaved myself in the Combat, the Gibbet whereon they have hung me in Effigies, Seemeth to me as an Obelisk or Pyramid erected to the Glory of my Virtue. Nevertheless I cannot but acknowledge a singular Obligation to you, for that worthy Office which your Friendship persuaded you to render me, and I will endeavour by all possible devoirs to ascertain you, that Ingratitude hath no harbour within my Breast.  
Merinda, who was not so well acquainted with the Art of placing her words, but who had very real Resentments of Affection for Almeria, replied after her manner, That what she had proposed, was to let him see by the little esteem she made of her Life, that thence forwards she never would employ it, but to Honour and Love him, to the end, that, if her mean Birth did render her unworthy of possessing his Favours, her Humility and perfect Submission might supply the place of Desert. But why do I stand to disguise the Language of a simple Shepherdess, in whose Mouth polite words would suit as ill as Painting upon her Cheeks? I might have only said, That She freely disclosed the Design she had to Marry him, if he pleased, and follow him to the World's end, imagining, as the Helmet of a Valiant Warrior is sometimes changed into a Beehive, and Chambers that have been hung with the costliest Tapestries, become Work-houses for Spiders, the beautiful Adolescent, disgusted with the trouble in Cities and glutted with the Grandeurs of the World, (like that Ancient Emperor, who resigned his Sceptre for a Gardner's Spade) would perchance be glad to reduce himself to a Pastoral Life, and endure some hardship after his sweet Delights. But Almeria was far from any such thought, her Ambition which aimed at nothing but Governing Provinces, & commanding Armies, could not descend to follow silly Sheep. Her dear Iphigenes (who had put a Flea in her Ear, and by his large Promises had left a thousand strange imaginations in her Brain) gave her other Ideas than this poor Shepherdess did conceive She harboured.   

The Fifth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
The Rusticks Labyrinth, and their general mistake of Almeria. Manile Celians second son, thinking Liante in a Shepherdesse's habit to be really a Woman, falls in Love with Him. Lupicin  Son to Celian, and Husband to Belida, seems to be taken likewise with the Beauty of Almeria. Fleurial Brother to Belida, and Antalcas Suitor to Merinda become Rivals to Manile. Remonda younger sister to Merinda is enraged with Jealousy against Almeria, because her Lover, Polemas, left her to make his Addresses to the graceful stranger. Belida no less incensed because her Husband made show of Affection to Almeria. Iphigenes returns to his Shepherdess, who informs him of all the Passages of her Country Lovers. Their Plot to increase the Country-People's Errors. Merinda is brought into some suspicion of Almeria's condition by Iphigenes ambiguous speeches. Almeria, at Merinda's importunity to discover her Sex, makes her believe, that she was really a Woman. Merinda's distemper at this Relation. Her spite in accusing Almeria to her Father and Brothers to be a lewd Woman; to Belida and Remonda she affirmed she was a Wicked Man that had attempted to ravish her. The Men's several Resentments of this Information. Belida and Remonda take Merinda's turn, having changed their Hatred to Almeria (as a Woman) into Love, thinking her a Man. Iphigenes his speech to Pomeran. His Reply.  
BUt as there is a certain imperious Inclination predominant generally in our Souls, which maketh us immeasurably affect to render ourselves amiable, and be admired as well as beloved, without regarding by whom; this sauce being so delightful, that it makes all Meats go down: Insomuch that we feel a complacency and contentment to see ourselves followed and fawned on by brute Beasts, as Sheep, Dogs, Cats, Birds, Fishes (witness the Murena of Crassus) and although they have neither beauty nor handsomeness, their applying of themselves to us doth gain insensibly our Affections, and maketh us cherish them: Almeria to divert the melancholy of that uncouth Life, and to recreate her fancy with the pleasure of Merinda's pain, took an humour to engage her further in that Passion, by opening her the Gate of Hope with such acquaint and cunningly framed Terms, as (like Arrows dipped in Oil) they presently pierced through her Simple Heart. Merinda, like the generality of Country People, took Almeria's Words of Compliment and Civility for real Obligations, and those Sparks grew to such a Blaze in her Breast, that it seemed as if nothing but the Ashes of the Grave could quench it, whilst the feigned Shepherdess hugged herself with delight to see her so entrapped in her Snares; a pleasure, I must confess, very malicious, but marvellously delicious.  
But She was not the only prey that fell into the Nets of the graceful Almeria, rather she served as a Decoy to draw other silly Birds unto the tunnel. For, as the Sun at his rising upon our Horizon, doth fill all places (where he shows his Head) with the glory of his light and heat; So Almeria had no sooner illustrated that solitude with her Presence, but all Eyes (capable of considering her Worth) were fixed on her Face, as if it had been a Loadstone, or a piece of Amber for those Hearts, which may be said to be of Iron for their rude unpolishedness, and of Straw for their simplicity. Merinda had a Brother, named Manile, who lived in the same House, and had the overseeing of his Father's Husbandry; This Brother having divers times seriously contemplated the not ordinary complexion of Almeria, was ravished as with the aspect of an Angel: and from this overcurious Sight proceeded the loss of his Liberty. He was certain that this lovely Stranger was no Niece of his Father's, and besides he perceived by her garb that she was born to some better employment than following of Sheep; in a word, this imaginary Servant became the real Mistress of his Inclinations. One day, He inquired very earnestly, who that Maid was, of his Father Celian, who being unwilling to discover the Mystery of Almeria's Transfiguration, paid his curiosity with a Tale which he invented on the sudden, making him believe that she was a Gentlewoman of a City not far thence, who being fallen into some fault of Frailty, was fled thither to avoid her Friend's Fury, and that (the better to keep herself concealed) she had transvested her self like a Shepherdess, notwithstanding she was descended of an Honourable extraction. This cast Oil in abundance into the Fire that was kindled in Manile's breast; for, this Imagination presently mounted to his brain; If Almeria were a light Huswife, he should easily Induce her to satisfy his desires; if otherwise, however she might be persuaded to be his Wife, not caring though he wedded a Disgrace, so he might cure his Love. Thereupon he forged these Reasons, apparently charitable; that taking her to Wife he should withdraw her from Lewdness, Save her from the Shipwreck of her evident ruin, Protect her from the Fury of her Irritated Parents, Repair her Honour by that Sacrament, fancying to himself that Honour consisting in nothing but Opinion, she would rather condescend to take Sanctuary in his Arms, and live with the Repute of an honest Woman in a Country Village, where her mischance was not known, than in the City where she would be scorned and upbraided by every body, and where (what penance soever a poor Maid doth after such a escape) the World, that Inexorable Judge, will never restore her to the sweet savour of her reputation.  
Full of this confidence he accosted this feigned Kinswoman, and after a little time he bluntly made her understand, that not contented with that Alliance (which was but imaginary) he pretended to a straighter band, namely, that which of two Bodies makes but one Flesh by the sacred Laws of Hymen. Almeria, laughing within herself to see that with such falsifying blows she made such real wounds, contributed all she could to strengthen Manile's error, and having learned of Celian with what opinion he had possessed his Son concerning her, she was prepared sufficiently to jeer at that Dolt's simplicity; which having commmunicated to Merinda, you need not ask how they (being in the Fields together) did solace themselves with the conceit of his being so handsomely deceived.  
If Love be not the Mother, it is the Daughter of Idleness; and an ancient Author calleth it, the Exercise and Occupation of lazy persons. Manile, being Love-stricken, found many excuses to leave his Plough, to seek out his mistress Almeria, who with Merinda followed the Sheep to Pasture, and there he discovered the depth of his Pretensions. Almeria accommodating her Speech to the Lie which Celian had made of her, cunningly feigned to be very Penitent for her past Folly, and to resolve to become wiser for the Future; which kindled more flames in that Swain's rude breast, than the Treacherous Sinon did cast into Troy to consume that stately City. It would be too tedious a thing to relate particularly the subtle Inventions of the witty Almeria to augment her Lover's distemper: One while she attracted him with her Refusalls, another while she charmed him with her fair Language; now she would heighten his desires to the highest pin, then kill all his hopes, representing sometimes to him by way of demand, if he would be contented to marry a cracked maid, or if he did not fear that might be a dishonour to him; sometimes again feigning to be fearful herself, that after their Marriage he would be apt to cast that in her dish upon the first dislike: By these several motions (which might be compared to the Ebbing and Flowing of the Tide) she put his Mind so out of frame, that he knew not whereunto he should apply his resolution. But Love always gained the Ascendant over his other Considerations; Insomuch that despairing to gain any thing of Almeria but by Marriage, he resolved to Conquer her that way; to which the feigned Shepherdess opposing new difficulties, did like Smiths in their Forges, who with light aspersions of Water increase the Ardour of their Fornaces. He, seeing his own Courtship prevailed nothing, took his Sister Merinda apart (who he perceived had some Credit with Almeria) conjuring her to be favourable to him, and persuade her Companion to accept of him for her Husband. Merinda being ready to burst with laughing, had all the pain in the World to keep her Tongue from blabbing, and dissemble what she knew; but the fidelity which she had sworn to Almeria, forbade her to undeceive Manile by declaring the truth of the Story, only she advised him to withdraw his thoughts from that Object, representing to him how vain and indiscreet a thing it was for him to seek his Pleasure to the prejudice of his Honour, that marrying one who formerly had lived loosely, it would be a perpetual Reproach and Confusion to him, if ever it came to be divulged; Besides, that He could not but be in a continual Jealousy, and Apprehension lest such a wife should return to her former lightness, and that the humours of Maids bred up in Cities were very hard to be discerned, in regard they concealed as many crafty devices in their heads, as a Leopard discovereth spots in his skin. Yet all these Remonstrances made no Impression in Manile's mind, being determined to have Almeria, or perish: All this was but the beginning of the Labyrinth in which those Country-Spirits did find themselves involved.  
It happened one day, as Merinda was looking for something in her Trunk, that Remonda, her younger Sister, came unexpectedly into the Chamber, where seeing a Man's apparel, which seemed to her very costly, Curiosity (an accident inseparable to the Nature of that Sex) egged her to inquire to whom those  belonged. Merinda surprised a little at her demand, remained some time without replying; at length being urged to an answer, her affection (which had sharpened her wit) suggested her to pay the other's Importunity with this ready Evasion; These are the , said she, which Almeria wore when she came for refuge hither. How Almeria? said Remonda, These are Men's ; That's granted, replied Merinda, for she disguised herself in this habit to avoid the fury of her Parents, who would have Persecuted her to Death. Why so? answered the inquisitive Remonda, what had she done? me think's there is nothing more Sweet, nor fair conditioned than She. Then Merinda related to her the same Fiction wherewith Celian had fed the curiosity of Manile, with charge not to speak of it for her life; which afterwards occasioned a strange confusion. For, People of that Nature have never a greater itch to be Tattling, than when they are commanded to be Silent, and the greater the danger is, the more are they tempted to reveal it. This was not all. Celian had another Son married to the Daughter of a rich Husbandman not far off, who since his Marriage lived in his Father-in-law's House. Lupicin (so was this Elder Son called) coming sometimes to visit his Father, had no sooner Invisaged Almeria, but ask who she was, Remonda told him all she knew, and added of her own what her Imagination did dictate. Whereupon he, being not very fond of his Wife, (whose disposition was none of the meekest) entertained presently a conceit that he should render her more careful to please him, if in her presence he should make show of some inclination to Almeria; but the Event was otherwise, for she grew horn-mad with Jealousy.  
Fl●urial (brother to Belida, Lupicin's wife) had no sooner observed this new Star on that Horizon, but he was touched with her Influences, and became Manile's Rival. Merinda and Remonda, before Almeria's coming, had both of them Servants, that is, Youngmen of their condition that made Love to them; But as in the presence of a Diamond the Loadstone loseth the Natural Virtue it hath of attracting Iron: So since Almeria's Arrival, they lost all their attractions, and were as little minded as Stars at Midday, there were no eyes but to gaze upon the handsome stranger, she was the Rock whereon they all suffered Shipwreck, or rather the Altar where they Sacrificed their Vows. Merinda, who saw all this Maze, and laughed at the several passages with Almeria, was little troubled for the Inconstancy of Antalcas (who was her pretendant) having higher thoughts than he, according to the hopes wherewith Almeria fed her Fancy. But Jealousy transported Remonda into strange fits of Fury, seeing herself rob of the Eyes, Heart and Conversation of her Polemas, who (before he had seen Almeria's face) expressed so much affection, and sealed his Protestations to her with so many Oaths. Whereupon this spiteful Female fell into such terms of Precipitation against Almeria, that she did render her the most Infamous Creature under the Heavens, adding to the Story Celian had framed, so many other horrid Circumstances, that it seemed Heaven had not Thunderbolts enough, nor the Earth Punishments sufficient to expiate the Imaginary crimes of Almeria, which she published every where for truths. If her Father chid or threatened her, that did but irritate her spleenfulll appetite of scandalising the Innocent stranger. Yet for all this her Sweetheart looked no more after her, his Passion for Almeria either stopping his ears against the injurious Reproaches which she vomited against him, and this new Object of his thoughts, or else making him believe that it was merely Calumny proceeding from the Envy which possessed her, for being frustrated of his Services. Merinda who gave her the Lie at every turn, and who said as much in defence of her Companion, effaced by her commendations the malicious detraction of her Sister: and in respect we are apt to believe what we desire, that troop of Rivals suffered themselves to be persuaded by her that spoke advantageously of the Common Object of their affections, rather than by her, whose invectives discovered so visible a Passion, that had she spoken truths, they would have sounded in their Ears but as fictions.  
But as when blustering Boreas and the South wind are in contention, the Air and Sea are filled with Storms and Tempests, in such sort, that it seems as if those two Elements would exchange their Centres: So when Belida's Jealousy together with Remonda's railing, came to join, or rather to oppose & give the shock to Merinda's justifications of Almeria, it made as foul an House as can be imagined to be amongst vulgar Women that quarrel, where all Speak and none Hear, Reason being banished from their Prattling. Who ever saw a Company of Birds gathered together about an Owl, some pecking it, some admiring (as it were) its form, and all crying after that Night. thief, hath seen a shadow of this Medley of Passions for one poor Subject, some of Love, some of Envy, others of Jealousy, and all as foolish as disorderly. And indeed what else can be expected from Rustics? Amongst whom Fleurial was one of the most eager, who not knowing that his Brother-in-Law Lupicin made show of love to Almeria for any other end than to reduce his Wife to Reason by some prick of Jealousy, casting Oil upon the Fire of his Sister's Fury, set her a Vomiting against her Husband such outrageous speeches, as no discreet Woman would have been heard to utter. But her quality excused her somewhat, besides a slight Imposition of Hands which Lupicin made upon her Face, trying to strike Dumb that Evil Spirit which made her scold with so much Insolence. But when she perceived that Fleurial was infected with the same Disease, and that he began to talk of Marrying Almeria, she expressed no less Impatience and Extremity of Choler against him, seeing he would bring into their Family one, whom she wished under ground, or at least at the World's end. What she did and what she said to hinder that design, which she foresaw, would be the Banishing of her from her Father's house, and the continual Object of her Fear, or rather of her Fury, is needless here to mention.  
Mean time Almeria managed her Deportments and Favours with such Industry and Modesty, that She was the Idol of all those Peasant's hearts, who Adored her as if she had been a Mortal Goddess. But as it is impossible to force Nature, so it is hard to bend it and make it so pliable that it discover not some tokens of its real Being. Achilles' disguised in woman's habit could not forbear handling of Weapons, besides, his gate and discourse did oftentimes betray him: only Iphigenes was able to appear directly other than what she was, for, having been always bred as a Man, and been possessed for a long time herself that she was so, Education had taken the place of Nature, and retained almost all her qualities. It was not so with Almeria, for sometimes unawares and not heeding the personage she was to represent, she did let fall some generous words, and performed actions more Vigorous than ordinary Females are guilty of undertaking; which after some observation made Fleurial & Belida likewise harbour a suspicion, that she was a Youth in Woman's clothing. Yet considering the sweet attractiveness of her countenance, and the delicacy of her complexion, they returned to their former opinion, thinking that she was really some Gentlewoman, and that perchance those that had their breeding in Cities (for what may not people imagine of a manner of life whereof they have no knowledge?) were as dexterous and Valiant as Amazons, and no less capable of conquering with their Hands than with their Eyes. At length Belida, whether by the inevitable instinct of Nature, (whose secret virtues we are not able to comprehend) or whether through the suspicion of that suit of  which Remonda had discovered, did feel certain motions, sometimes of Hatred against Almeria, as believing her a Woman, and sometimes of Affection, as fancying the contrary. Thus this Feverish Passion which agitated her thoughts, made her fall from Heat to Cold, and from a i'll Shivering, into a scalding Sweat. To relate what thoughts ran through the Brains of the four Pretendants, Manile, Fleurial, Antalcas, and Polemas, were to no purpose: As for Lupicin, his design, as you have heard, was rather to punish his Cross-grained Wive's perverseness, than for any other pretention. Only Merinda and Celian, who knew the secret, did participate with their new Kinswoman of the Divertisement she had in this pleasant Cozenage. Which Almeria longed to communicate to her dear Iphigenes, as the most agreeable Pastime that could be imagined: And to the end the Comedy might be exactly perfect, Celian and Merinda must likewise be brought into the Labyrinth, which was thus, but not without an extreme Intricacy.  
Iphigenes having once more lost himself to find out his Almeria, met Merinda with her (who stirred no more from that beloved Companion, than the Shadow is separated from the Body;) He was so advantageously Apparelled, that the silly Shepherdesse's eyes were dazzled at such extraordinary Gallantry; but, if she was amazed to see him, he was no less surprised to meet her, for he knew not how to be rid of her, that he might discourse more freely with Almeria. At last he told them that he was one of the Palatine's followers, who had lost his way and Company in Hunting, but he had reason to rejoice at his being strayed, since he had found such honest Virgins as might give him some directions. It must be my Sister then, replied Almeria, that must render you that good office, for I am Ignorant of the ways in this Forest, being a stranger, and arrived but very lately in these parts. Iphigenes, who asked no better than to fall into talk, without taking notice that he knew Almeria, said, So me thinks Virtuous Shepherdess, for your Language is far different from that of this Province, and by your Face one may judge, that you are as unused to that habit, as unacquainted with the ways of the Country; if all Shepherdesses were like you, the Cities would become Deserts, and the Deserts be quickly filled with People, many Young Gentlemen would leave the Court, where nothing but Mischief and Envy is practised, to apply themselves to such agreeable Objects and so worthy to be beloved. Here Merinda imagining that Almeria's eyes had wounded the Gentleman's heart, as well as the Country Swain's, partly out of Jealousy, partly out of Simplicity, briskly thus answered, addressing her Speech to Almeria; In good earnest, Cousin, I think the Gentlemen will fall in Love with you as well as the Ploughmen, and that in the end you will set Fire in every place, if you take not heed. But you are too wise to hearken to such Gallant's words, who so much contemn us Country-maids, and never commend us but when they think the contrary, of what they say, or if they do speak as they mean, it is but to abuse us. And you, Sir, continued she, turning herself towards Iphigenes, should do better to pass on your way, without suffering your Mind to stray amongst us, as your Body hath done in these woods, that you may not lose both together, and like an ill Huntsman in stead of taking, be taken yourself. The brave Palatine was not a little Astonished at her Language: For, besides that he expected not such clear Reasons from so gross a Soul, he feared lest by replying he might catch himself, and discover that he had a better part than she in the acquaintance of Almeria, who made him Signs with her Fingers and Eyes not to take notice of her. Nevertheless not to remain absolutely without answering, he thus said; Sweetheart, You answer according to your own fashion, that is, uncivilly, to one that treats you with Courtesy; your Companion is better taught, and whether she be a Citizen, or hath had her Education in some City, as her Countenance, her Speech, and her Carriage do testify, she would have had more Civility than to have returned such an answer. The sweetness which doth polish those that are well bred, is esteemed amongst you Rustics Treachery; for, you are Naturally so Distrustful, that when a man speaketh kindly to you, you think he will betray you. You must not deal so ruggedly with a poor Gentleman that is Strayed, and who desire's to be put again into his way, the rather, that he may be rid of such rude Conversation as yours. In sooth that shall not hinder you (replied Merinda) from leaving us in Peace, follow me and I will set you in the way that shall lead you to the next Village, where you may be farther informed of those whom you seek This said, she advanced to direct him; But Almeria (who was unwilling to let slip this occasion, the visits of her Iphigenes being very rare) drew her back, and whispered softly to her; Sister, what is your meaning? I know this Gentleman, he is one of my best Friends, and who may be very useful to me as my business now stands, doubtless he doth not know me in this habit; but if you please to retire yourself into yonder Copse whilst I Discourse a little with him, you will oblige me infinitely. Merinda, who desired nothing more than to please Almeria, thought herself able to make no better excuse on the sudden than to satisfy her demand.  
She being thus separated to give the two Friends liberty to talk freely together, it cannot be expressed what pleasure Iphigenes took in hearing from the Mouth of the Feigned Almeria the Relation of those Flames which she had kindled in those Rustic Souls, and the uncertainty wherein they were of her Sex, by reason of the different Tales already mentioned. Whereof being willing not only to take share himself, but to make some of his Favourites participant likewise, that they might recreate themselves with the simplicity of those Swains, they conspired so to lay their Plot, that the Gentlemen might be abused as well as the Clowns. Great Persons would not esteem their pleasures, if they were not singular; for, as their Condition raiseth them above the Vulgar, their Entertainments, their Occupations and their Divertisements ought not to be Common. Greatness, like Bodies o'ercharged with Fat, draweth so many Inconveniences after it, that those that are in important Charges, and elevated to high degrees of Honour, are glad sometimes to pack up all that Baggage of Vanity which environ's them, to lead by stealth a low, popular and obscure Life, mingling themselves amongst the Lees of the People, and abasing their Dignities to the condition of the lowest Subjects, of whom the Plough drivers march in the last Rank, being (as it were) the Earthen Feet of that Statue which the King of Assyria saw in his Dream.  
Almeria, whose spirit Ambition much more disquieted, than these Recreations delighted, desired Iphigenes in mean time to tell her how he would dispose of her after those Rural Merriments were passed; Whereupon Iphigenes (who aimed at nothing but to divert the affection she bore to Clemencia) proposed the Desire he had to raise her to a great Fortune (this was to feel how her Pulse beat, by the pretention of Glory) by Marrying her to Simphoroza, or the Princess Respicia, her Mother, to the end he might divert her Passion, and hinder her from breaking off his own Marriage with Modestina, in the Continuation whereof Liante's honour did seem to be engaged. But if all that failed, He promised to give her his Ward, Leonora Daughter to Stanislas, whose Estate he might have enjoyed as well as his command of Palatine, if he had listed, the King having given him the confiscation. All these Propositions were as many specious Ports to let Liante (hidden under the name of Almeria, and with the veil of a Shepherdess) forth of that odious condition, wherein Mieslas had enthralled him, and gave him at the same time entrance into that of Wealth and Honours, after which he so ardently did thirst. But all this disguised Nymph could do during the short space of their Interlocution, was to remit the conduct of all her Fortune into the hands of the beloved Iphigenes, to whom she needed not to have made so strict a Recommendation, since therein He laboured for his own Interest.  
In mean time they resolved to play the Countrymen the pleasantest Trick that could be imagined: for ground whereof they agreed that within few days Iphigenes, accompanied by some of his Friends, disguised like Peasants, should come to a certain Neighbouring Village (where a Wake or some such Solemnity was to assemble a multitude of Countrypeople) and that they should make show of being in love with Almeria, to see what mettle Jealousy would put into the four Rivals already mentioned. And to leave the seeds of some suspicion in Merinda's Soul, they thought it would not be improper, that Iphigenes taking leave of Almeria, should now and then mistake himself, speaking sometimes as if she were a Man, and sometimes as if she were a Maid, in ambiguous terms promising to assist her; sometimes to cover her shame, as if she had been a deflowered Virgin; sometimes to obtain her Grace, as if she had been guilty of Homicide, which the ingenious Iphigenes carried with such dexterity, that Merinda knew not where she was, but thought she had been enchanted. And indeed what with the Doubts and Suspicions, 'twixt which her spirits swum, besides the discourse which she heard, there was enough to disturb a much stronger Brain than here's.  
Iphigenes having left them to their own liberties, By the Faith of a Maid (said Merinda to Almeria) I know not what to think, whether you are Fish or Flesh; to my sense you are like the Otters of our Marshes, which are both Terrestrial and Aquatic Creatures, or like our Geese which live in both Elements; for, if I consider the Lineaments of your Face, they are so attractive, and your Complexion so delicate, that I do not wonder, if in the Opinion of all our young Men you pass for a Maid; On the other side, when I look upon your stoutness of Heart, and vigorous activity of Body, I cannot but persuade myself that you are of the Sex of that Habit which I have in keeping for you: But, when I recall to my thoughts the reservedness of your carriage to me, who yet have never seen you do the least Action, nor speak the least word that shown you to be a Man, that makes me conceit that you are like me, and whilst I laugh to see others deceived in their pursuits, I am frustrated myself of my Expectation. Therefore without holding me any longer in suspense, you will oblige me very much to deliver my mind of this Perplexity. Almeria (like Huntsmen and Fowlers, who glad to see the innocent Creatures fall into their Gins, in stead of untangling them do engage them further in their Snares, letting them struggle and torment themselves until their own weariness makes them consent to their taking) in stead of casing Merinda of her pain, led her about with so many ambiguous Circumlocutions, that after a tedious Discourse she left her no less unsatisfied than before, casting her by those intricate Explanations into a greater Obscurity, than that of her former uncertainties. Whereupon said the trouled Merinda, Thus the City-Wits, more slippery than Lampreys, riggle from us when we think to grasp them: but in short, I have only one question to ask you, Are you Man or Woman? Then Almeria, who took pleasure in this confusion, told her, That she was extremely sorry that she had so long deceived her, in saying she was a Man, for in effect she was an unfortunate Maid; that thinking to tell her Sister a lie, she had told her Truth, like a blind Man that shooting at a Mark doth sometimes hit it by chance, Hazard supplying the defect of Address. However she entreated her, if she was thereby deprived of her Affection, that she might not lose her Friendship, which she saw was very necessary for her Preservation, not resolving after her fault to cast herself into the precipice of her total ruin, hoping that Heaven taking pity of her repentance, would create in the Heart of him that had abused her, the desire of repairing her honour by Marriage, by which means she might be reestablished in her Estate, and regain her Parent's Favour. To describe the astonishment, together with the regret which seized on Merinda at this confession, is beyond my ability: for this Truth was not a little odious to her, and had not Compassion taken the place of the Ashes of Love, whose coals were deadened on a sudden, she had made foul Work.  
This Counterpoint hurried her into the participation of Remonda's, and her Sister-in-law's Jealousies, and her Scoffing and Laughing at those young Men, who expressed such Passion for this stranger, returning to her memory, put her into strange distempers. I need not repeat the Reproaches she made against Almeria, in regard her Anger was like to a storm, which after much Thunder and Rain, leave's nothing but Dirt and Vapours: for, Almeria had such an Art to pacify her, that she pardoned her that Deceit, considering that broken Maids would do what they could to hid their Faults, there being nothing so natural as to shun shame. For the better effecting whereof, she prayed her to spread a rumour underhand amongst the People of the Village, that she was a Man, to the end she might remain unsollicited, and likewise Remonda and Belida be cured of their Jealousies. Whereof Merinda would not have failed, though she had not been entreated, there being but one point which obligeth a Maid to keep a business secret, that is, when she herself is interessed; take away that Floodgate and she will disgorge like a full Mill-Dam. Besides, Merinda had reason to foment this supposition, to repeal Antalcas to his former observance of her, and cure herself of the real jealousy which she might conceive, if he continued his Courting of Almeria: whom she had no sooner left, but, like a person who suddenly shake's off a Coal that flies upon his , she ran to acquaint her Father with the Discovery, telling him that Almeria was indeed a Maid, who under Man's clothing had escaped from the fury of her Parents, who would have washed in her Blood the Honour, which she had stained and ravished from them. This startled the old Man at first, believing his Daughter might have had some proofs, which those of her Sex might gather with more Certainty and Modesty than Men. But (when he perceived that her drift was to persuade him to turn her speedily out of doors, otherwise he would nourish a Viper that would be his Destruction, and keep a fatal firebrand which would reduce his whole Family into Ashes, besides the Dishonour which he would reap by harboring an idle light Huswife in his House) he stopped her Mouth with a Multitude of Arguments in Almeria's Defence, feeling the profit sweet which he got by her, his Heart being of the Composition of those mercenary Spirits, who for an Ounce of Gold would give an hundred weight of Honour. Merinda seeing that her Speeches availed nothing with her Father, to excite him to dismiss her, whom she feared as much, believing her to be a Maid, as she loved, whilst she thought her to be a Man; besides, considering that in stead of apprehending that Manile would Marry her, he seemed to hold the imaginary Ignominy of that Alliance too great an Honour, not believing that (although she was a Fugitive) she would condescend to any such Bargain; at length, she let him alone, and turning her course, she resolved to disperse the uncertainty of her Condition among her Brothers and Sisters, not so much to oblige Almeria, (as she had promised) as to satisfy her own spiteful Humour.  
To her Sister Remonda (as if she had escaped some great danger) she related, how she had thought to have undone herself by frequenting Almeria's company, believing that she had been really a Maid (as she had possessed Celian and her) but that she now had found that He was a wicked Man, who having committed some Villainous Action, to avoid the hands of the Justice, was fled to hid himself in those Woods, and not thinking himself yet sufficiently concealed, unless he denied his Sex, he had covered his Knavery under the Habit of a simple Shepherdess. If I should tell my Father or my Brother, what violence that Traitor offered to me (continued She) I believe they would tear him in a thousand pieces, unless my Father be too much blinded with the Gold which he hath cast into his Eyes; for old Folk generally are of that Disposition, that Lucre makes them neglect all Honour. How do you think was Remonda affected with this Discourse? In stead of continuing in her former frenzy, which Merinda's intention was to resuscitate, she felt on a sudden all her choler vanish, and gently slipping into its place an agreeable sweetness, like unto that delightful poison which is called Love. The winning Graces of Almeria (as a Man) represented themselves to her Eyes in a more lovely form than ever, and turning her Passion in an instant, of a Mortal Enemy, she became a voluntary slave to her, whom Jealousy had made her hate. Oh how she than repent that she had spoken so unworthily of the worthiest Subject in the World! How much she apprehended lest her brawling and invective Speeches might be an Obstacle to the Conquest, which she projected of that Golden Fleece! She transplanted all her Rage and Malice into her Sister's Breast, and having in exchange embraced her Affection, in stead of blaming Almeria for the violence, which she thought she had offered to the pudicity of Merinda, perchance she would rather have excused than accused the like attempt upon herself.  
Merinda made the like Relation to Belida, who presently felt herself eased of that Headache which troubled her, by reason of her Husband's show of affection to Almeria, and in stead of seconding Merinda in that choler (wherewith she feigned to be transported against that disguised Ravisher) she told her, that to make any further Complaints would be but a needless trouble, and that it was better to turn into laughter the Passions of those Men, who were so enamoured of that supposed Maid, and cast in their Faces the confusion of having neglected the Legitimate Objects of their real Loves, to run after a Shadow. So Merinda finding no more Disposition in her Sister-in-Law, than in Remonda, to back the Design she had of chase away her, whom she could not love as a Maid, (perchance because she had disclosed something, which she then wished she had concealed, and which she feared would be discovered by the Frailty of her Sex, whom she knew to be in the impossibility of silence) she resolved to continue her Plot, and beget a belief in her Brother Manile, and by his means in the rest, that Almeria was a Man, whom some heinous crime had obliged to take that disguise, thinking thereby to make them hunt her away, lest being discovered by the Justice, they might be brought in question and imprisoned as harbourers and complices of his crime.  
If Belida was glad to hear this Maid was a Man, changing her Gall into Hony, and the sharp prickles of her Hatred into the sweet flowers of Friendship, Manile was no less afflicted at this news; for, it was the burying of that amiable Passion which inlivened him, and which fed his imagination with the most agreeable Fancies, that ever he had experimented. As if a Thunderbolt had swept the ground under his Feet, and a flash of Lightning sealed up his Eyes; or, as if he had received a great Knock with a Club upon the Head, so he stood amazed for a good while without any motion of Body or Tongue. At length, as, although the Fire be out, the Ashes yet remain warm; So Pity assuming in the Heart of this Rustic the place of Love, which was quite extinguished by this Relation, He answered, That however, they ought to have compassion of those that were in affliction, and not to commit so base a Treachery as to betray a poor criminal, who did what he could to shelter himself from the rigour of Justice, that it would be a very unworthy part for Protectors to become Sergeants, that the Sanctuary should prove the Ruin, and serve as a Prison to those that fled thither for refuge, thinking to find their Liberty and safeguard; those Harbours being very unfortunate where vessels were cast away.  
The spiteful Female seeing he made no more account of her complaints than the rest, repaired to Lupicin, who was very glad of that advertisement; for, having no other end in following Almeria, than to torment his Wife, he thought it might be a means to make her see her folly, when that verity should come to be divulged. Fleurial, Lupicin's Wive's Brother, was no less astonished than Manile, when it came to his ears, Oh! how he wished it had been false, although he believed it was too true, Merinda had the skill to relate it with such resentments of a Virgin, the treasure of whose integrity (she pretended) Almeria would have ravished. Only Antalcas, quondam servant to Merinda, had a conceit, that what she alleged was a mere supposition, invented to confound him, for forsaking her to Court the strange Shepherdess: for, he carried the perfections of Almeria so deeply engraven in his breast, that he needed a more Authentic proof than a bare report to disabuse him, so, he sent her away very ruggedly, telling her that he was not so Credulous, and that she spoke out of Envy.  
In sum, whilst all those eyes, like so many Argusses, were watching and observing every particular gesture of Almeria, she had the wit so Dexterously to hold the Balance in this Ambiguity, that she led those Rustics (as they say) by the Nose, like Bears that are Blind and Muzzled. For, the Men by her Womanish behaviour, which she acted to the life, were confident she was of that Sex; And that to avoid their Importunities, she had made Merinda publish that Lie: But Belida and Remonda applying their Observations more particularly to those Actions that spoke her, as they desired her, had a conceit that Merinda had invented that Stratagem to preserve that prize to herself, in imitation of Nurses who lay Mustard upon their Nipples, when they have a mind to wean their Children, to make them shun the bitterness in the same place, whence they Sucked the sweet nourishment of their lives. Thus Remonda taking Merinda's turn, declared without much Ceremony her Passion to Almeria, telling him that she had seen his , and that she knew his Condition; And Belida, who would pay her Husband in his own Coin, and make his Brains crow another while, began to make extraordinary caresses to Almeria, which were much less supportable than her Envy and Detraction. And Merinda, (though she studied to shun the sight of Almeria with no less care, than she had formerly desired it with eagerness whilst her sense made her hope for some satisfaction) could not forbear looking backwards (like the woman that was Metamorphosed into a pillar of Salt) and to call some Scruples into her mind, that perchance Almeria to be rid of her importunities, made her believe that she was a Maid, when she was otherwise. The importance of all this was, that every one champed on his Bit in Silence, and out of the Mass of divers thoughts, could not draw one Drachm of resolution.  
These Rusticks heads being thus Intoxicated, a Solemnity in a neighbouring Village invited the Countrypeople to assemble there; Almeria seeming to be unwilling to go thither, out of fear of being known, augmented by her backwardness the desire of her Suitors to see her appear amongst the other Lasses, like the Moon near her full amongst the smaller Lights, which the Night displayeth in the Firmament. At length by much wooing and entreaty, she suffered herself to be persuaded to bear Belida and Remonda company, who left her the least they could; Merinda likewise, being desirous to see the pastime, was forced to join with them, and re-accost Almeria, who cast such glances upon her as penetrated her very Soul, and without speaking a word, reproached openly enough her unworthiness. Whilst they are upon the way, let us take the time to relate the plot which Iphigenes laid to render invisible to the eyes of his friends the Passion which he intended to make visible to Almeria, but in such a manner as I want words to express it.  
Pomeran being his bosom friend, He took him into his Closet, where he thus disclosed his mind unto him: Dear friend, can I conceal any thing from thee that comes near my Heart, since thou takest so much part in my joys or Displeasures? No certainly, unless I would offend thy Friendship, which obligeth me to an Entire confidence. Alas! At our last Hunting, whilst you having the Hart at a Bay, were making a Prey of him, I doubly lost myself in the Forest, and have Enthralled my Heart, but in such a Bondage as I esteem above any Freedom; Love hath made beoty of my Liberty, by the Encounter of a Shepherdess, who doth so much resemble the only Object which delight's my Soul (that is, my Wife, my dear Modestina) that at first blush I thought she had been escaped out of the Prison, where the Cruelty of my Father retaineth her, and had concealed herself in these Woods, disguised thus, purposely to accost me, and learn the resentments of my Soul. But by her Conversation I perceived it was not she, though this hath a good wit for a Country- girl, accompanied with an Incomparable Modesty: I have showed thee sometimes her Picture, which I always wear next my Heart, where her Idea is so lively Engraven; by that thou wilt discern their likeness when thou seest this sweet Object of my Divertisement: For, really I must confess, since I have met with this living Copy, that Picture hath seemed dead to me, and if I have Strayed sometimes in the Forest, I may tell thee, it hath been to seek out this Image of my only Joy, the Original whereof is detained from my sight, by the Imperious command, I dare not say Cruelty of my Father. And although I confess there is an extreme difference betwixt the Merits of my Lady and this Shepherdess, yet this deceit is as sweet to me, as that of an agreeable dream, which when we awake makes us sorry it lasted no longer. I wish the Heavens may never pardon me, nay contrary, I desire that my head may serve for a Butt to all their Thunderbolts, if in this pleasing imagination I have any design that is not conformable to Virtue. I know what I own to God and my own Soul, what I own to the Glory of my Birth and Quality; I know what the inviolable Fidelity is, which I have sworn to my Wife, and I should be the ungratefullest Creature breathing, if I did not correspond to the sincerity of her Affections to me: thou mayest believe me, were I to die a thousand times, and by a thousand sorts of new torments, I would rather undergo them all, than commit an act of Disloyalty against Her, or with This of whom I speak. For I hold, that to Love without Honour, (besides that it is an Infamy) is rather Pain than Pleasure, and those Sinister intentions are for the most part shameful, and abhor the light; Which is quite contrary to mine, for I do not only declare unto you my Passion, but I desire, if you please, to make you participant of my Pleasure. Those that aim at nothing but such delights, as are common to us and Brutes, cannot endure any companions in their enjoyments, being covetous to possess alone what they desire with as much Impurity as Impatience: But chaste Love is not subject to any of those Frenzies, it's Jealousy looks no farther than the desire of rendering itself more perfect, more amiable, more accomplished; to be beloved, not alone, but better than others. Reason is the Conductor of this pure Affection, whereas she is banished from all illicite Passions. All that I pretend in this Divertisement, which I am about to tell you, is only to amuse that concupiscible Faculty which is Natural to us, (and which cannot be void, that is, useless in us) in giving it an Object, whose Simplicity can no ways lessen or cause any alteration of the Sincere affection which I bear Modestina: Let the Heavens so prosper me, as I Honour and am Faithful to her, & may I enjoy no longer Life than I preserve my Loyalty to her; But, as in stead of being offended, I am sure she would be well pleased to know that in her absence I should love and make a thousand caresses to her Picture; So, I believe that rendering but Honourable and chaste Devoirs to her living Image, I shall not prejudice the Faith which I own her, seeing I do not cherish this Figure, but in consideration of her whom it represents, amusing myself therewith as an Innocent Child would do about a Baby, to divert the Melancholy and disgusts which accompany my disgrace.  
You may say what you please, replied POMERAN, for believe me, Sir, it is impossible to speak so feelingly, and cry up the merits of any Subject with such Vehemency, without being touched with that Frenzy which mole's the strongest Brains. I dare not question your Fidelity to Modestina, but as a Fever is known by the Alteration, and by the Tongue is observed the indisposition of the Stomach; so by the discourse is discovered the Intention of the Heart, since out of the abundance thereof the Mouth speaketh. The Image you so much adore, is too real and too lively, to make me believe that you cherish the Present only by Imagination, and the Absent in Effect; if you are not very cunning, and well-sented, you are now in danger of taking a change; these Savage Creatures have oftentimes such Wiles, as the expertest Huntsmen are never able to find out. Any other Passion else may be so handsomely dissembled, that a Man may cheat the Eyes of the most Circumspect, but in this, which carries away the Heart entirely, it is not the Mouth but the bottom of the Soul which speaketh. Some do persuade themselves they Love very much, when they are not touched with the least Affection, and others sometimes do think they have but a spark of that Fire, when all their Bowels are on a Flame. Make no jest of this, Iphigenes, for whilst you think to catch, you may be caught, and believing to deceive others, you may be abused yourself. For the most part this dangerous Passion, (the Murtheress of our Honour and the Enemy of our Repose,) insinuate's itself and slips into our Souls under such specious pretexts, and by such plausible means, that with the Sugar we swallow the Poison, and contribute all we can to our perdition. You say it is only for sport, and to recreate your discontented Mind, and that there is nothing of evil, or indedecencie in it; Can there I pray, be any thing more misbecoming, than to see a Man great by Extraction, great by Quality, great in Esteem, and great in Courage, abase his thoughts so low as to Court a Shepherdess? You, who have the Honour to deserve (what disgrace of Fortune soever may be imagined by this retirement from Court) the Affection of both their Majesties, what will they they say of this Fantasy, but that Lucifer is fallen from Heaven, and that you have precipitated yourself from the Vertical point of Honour into the Centre of Dejection by some sort of Despair? Indeed you prepare matter for your Calumniators, who not content to triumph over your Innocence, will add to their Trophies the Laughter at your Follie. Pardon me Sir, if I speak so boldly to you, the excess of my Affection to your Person passeth the Reverence which I own to your Quality, and I should esteem myself a Traitor, if I should conceal so remarkable a Verity.  
After a multitude of other dissuasive Arguments, which Iphigenes refuted with no less subtlety and eagerness, than Pomeran alleged them with Cordial tenderness, We shall never have done contesting, said Iphigenes, unless I quite unbutton my breast to you, which I will do, Pomeran, with as much Freedom as I have Confidence in your Fidelity. This Fire which you think so great, or which you fear will grow to see great a Blaze, is but a little spark which I desire to Choke, not to Cherish; For, beside the solemn Protestations which I make to Heaven, never to admit within my Soul any thought of Unfaithfulness or Impurity, I must absolutely have renounced all Honour and Reason, if I should suffer my desires to stoop so low as the Condition of Almeria: But this is a plot which I have invented (wherein I have need of your assistance to cover my dissimulation) that Respicia losing all hopes of conquering me, and my Father, fearing lest this fantasy may ruin my Fortune, may consent to render me possessor of my Modestina, without whom mee-think's the light of the Sun is irksome to my sight. Judge you then, Dear Friend, if my Intention be unjust, or my wounds inflamed by the remedy which I apply to them. This would not be the first time, answered Pomeran, that the Antidote were changed into poison. Violent cures are always dangerous, we never make use of Irons and Fire but in extremities, and when 'tis feared that the Gangrene will hasten Death. We cannot judge of Counsels and Enterprises by the beginning, but by the Event. It happeneth oftentimes that a Mutinous People seeking to shake off the Yoke of their Natural and Legitimate Prince, do fall by their revolting under the Domination of a strange Tyrant, not acquiring the Liberty which they pretended, but having only changed a bad Master for a worse. Physic is not always in season, and that which is good for one, is hurtful to another; That which you are about to take, is as if in stead of casting yourself from a precipice, you should fall into the Fire. Some potions are harder to be taken, than our Diseases to be supported; and mee-think's there is an Hook under this Bait: Therefore I conjure you by all the glory which accompanies you, to manage well and be chary of your Renown; be not carried away inconsiderately by these Passions, which will render you no less ridiculous, than you have hitherto been remarkable for so many Heroic and Generous Actions.   

The Sixth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Iphigenes, under the Name of Iphis, attended by Pomeran, Argal, Pisides and Boleslaus (all disguised like Countrey-Fellowes) goes to Celian's Village and makes Love to Almeria. The Jealousy of the Swains, and their Malicious Combination against these Strangers. Almeria's Loving Speech to Iphigenes. His no less Passionate than Ambiguous Answer. Iphigenes the better to enjoy his Almeria's Company, and blind his own Friend's Eyes as well as the Clown's, procure's himself to be received likewise into Celian's Service. Almeria by another feigned story of Herself, staggers the belief of the other Shepherdesses more than ever. Their Plot against her, Iphis, and the other disguised strangers. The several Censures of Iphigenes' Friends for his Disguisement. Iphis overcomes by Presents the Malice of his Clownish Enviers. Iphigenes and Almeria, accompanied by Boleslaus only, steal privately away into the Woods. The sense of the Feigned as well as the real Swains concerning their departures. Almeria and Iphis having changed  in the Woods, she takes the Name of Calliante, and he calls himself Scrife. Their parting from each other, the better to effect their Stratagem. Pomeran with his Companions and the Country Men going to seek Iphigenes, meet with his Huntsmen. The manner of their encounter, and the fall of the Stag they hunted. Iphigenes or Serife's Dream. Her own interpretation of it: Her Meditation.  
IPHIGENES being out of hope of winning Pomeran to favour his Desires; I see, said he, you are too serious to accompany me in this merriment, but I know when you see the issue of it, you will be sorry that you deprived yourself of a pleasure which might have afforded you much contentment: For my own particular I am sure to come safe enough out of these imaginary dangers, and that I shall take no more Passion than my Reason will be able to overrule. Whereupon Pomeran thus made answer, I am your Friend in all seasons, Summer, Winter, in Favour and in Disgrace, I have forsaken the Court to follow you, and I will leave the City to attend you in your Rural Recreations, with you Imprisonment is Liberty to me, Solitude a Paradise, and without you the Court is a forlorn Desert. I have served you in Combats, and in Duels, being resolved to be yours as well in Death as in Life; I am upon the least summons ready to go with you upon any Exploit, though ne'er so dangerous; And having given you my advice with all Sincerity and Affection, it is now my turn to embrace yours without seeking any further Reason than your Will. If you run yourself into destruction, I will be destroyed with you; but give me leave to lament your ruin more than mine own, which is much less considerable than yours; wheresoever you go, I will die at your feet, and in the Obedience which I have vowed to your command. To this Iphigenes presently replied; I love voluntary Sacrifices, Friendship admit's of none but free persons on board of her Galley, she will have no forced service. I should be sorry that you should do out of constraint, what ought to proceed from an hearty cheerfulness. I am sorry for the contradiction that I have caused to your Humour, which I perceive at present is not disposed to Mirth, for my own part I had rather Die with hunger, than Live upon Alms; I cherish my friends according to their Fancies; if they are jovial I rejoice, and I am sad at that which afflicts them. However, I love you ne'er the less, Pomeran, for I know it is the Excess of your good Will to me which makes you fear where there is no occasion. Therefore you may use what Exercise you please, whilst with Argal, Pisides and some others of my friends (who will not stand upon such niceties) I will take a Recreation which I hold to be innocent, and wherein I will do my endeavour to hinder Malice from introducing any of her stratagems. My proposing of those Reasons (said Pomeran) was not to oppose them against your Will, but to let you see with what measure I march in your service, for (you may believe me) although I do not suspect your pleasures in the least, but believe your intentions are upright and sincere, yet I must tell you that what hath reference to your Advantage and Glory, toucheth me more nearly than what concerns your pastimes, In which I shall not be wanting, nevertheless to attend you, so that my presence be not offensive or suspected. For, in such case I will rather retire myself, to remove an Object from your Eyes, that may be an occasion of your perpetual trouble, and bar you of the Liberty of Speech or Actions.  
Iphigenes being desirous to preserve so real a Friend, and knowing that first or last the success would disabuse him, not to give him any cause of Discontent, consented that he should accompany him in his Facetious Enterprise of going in a Peasant's Habit to make love to Almeria. Pisides and Argal (being not so considerate) were no sooner acquainted with the Design, but they approved it, and with a complacency, familiar to Courtiers, they presently made Proffers of their Services, fancying already a thousand inventions to abuse the simplicity of those clownish Souls. There was none but Boleslaüs (Foster-Father and Confident to Iphigenes) who participated of the truth of this Story, or knew whereunto tended the Moral of this Fable. He had already (disguised like a Traveller) been to confer with Almeria, of whom he learned the Dispositions of those Rustic Spirits, wherewith she was environed; and the Politic Old Man (by whose counsel Iphigenes chief directed his course) cast now and then into the Soul of this supposed Shepherdess certain hopes which gently flattered Her Ambition.  
All things being thus ordered, Iphigenes with his three Friends, Pomeran, Argal and Pisides, not forgetting Boleslaüs, whom he called Father, marched like Country-fellowes to the Village where the solemnity was; thither likewise came Almeria, accompanied with Belida, Remonda and Merinda, ushered by Lupicin and the four Competitors. Manile, Fleurial, Antalcas and Polemas. To make a comparison betwixt those Real Rustics and these disguised ones, I had need have the Pencil of that Painter, who (with only turning the Picture) of an Horse that was tumbling in the dust, made one running full speed, and beating the dust in his Career. I will not here amuse myself in the Description of an Antic, nor abuse the time and the Reader's Patience with the Representation of a County-solemnity; I shall only say that our Strangers appeared amongst those rough-hewen Boors, like that golden Sand which shines amongst the gravel of the River Tagus. There were no Eyes but for them, nor any but upon them. They carried away with such advantage the Glory in all the Exercises, as Dancing, Wrestling, Jumping, Slinging of Stones, flinging the Bar, Shooting, or whatsoever, that they seemed as if they were come thither purposely to dazzle the sight of all that did behold them: But their Carriage being too gentile for such mean Habits, their clear Complexions and their studied Slights betrayed them. Every one asked, Who are they? whence are they? but no body could give an account. This bred a suspicion that there was some Plot in their coming, and that they were some cunning Shavers that intended to surprise them. To repeat you the Discourse of these Stage-Peasants, would be too long and Frivolous; or to tell you that amongst the throng of Females Almeria was presently noted for her which deserved the Golden Apple, would be as needless.  
If Amity is form betwixt equals, or equalizeth those whom it unite's, there was no Body, how envious soever, that seeing Iphigenes Discoursing with Almeria, would not judge them the best Maached Couple in the World, only He appeared too white for a Man, and she too brown for a Woman, but her brownness was Alabaster in comparison of the rest. Pisides and Argal commended Iphigenes (who had given himself the Name of Iphis) for his choice: But Pomeran, who always suspected this (seemingly feigned) Love, conceiving that it had some reality which he could not discern, had his mind balanced in the Flood and Ebb of different Imaginations; Sometimes reflecting upon the Resemblance of the Picture Iphigenes had shown him, he thought she might indeed be Modestina, but that conjecture was soon effaced by some homely Actions, which Almeria counterfeited with so much Art, that the most clear-sighted would have taken them for Dame Nature's own production. Iphigenes ravished with delight to see his Design succeed, opened his Heart in private to Boleslaüs, who participated of his contentment to see how they were all deceived in Almeria, and she herself in him. And in regard the pleasure would have been too short, if confined to one day's time, our Disguised Gentlemen continued their Visits to Almeria, and the rest in Celian's House for the space of half a Moon: during which time the Palatine made a Report be spread in Plocens (which was the chief City of his Government) that he was retired to a Castellain's House in the Country for some Affairs of great Importance.  
In the fifteen Day's time which Iphigenes with his Companions spent in a Rich Farmer's House not far from Celians, their Expenses and great Cheer quickly made appear that they had nothing of Countrymen but the Habit. They went not to Plough, nor followed any such exercises as the others did, but making Fishing or Hunting their daily Occupations, they miss no opportunity of accosting Almeria, either in the Groves, in the Meadows, under the shade by the River's side, or near some cool Spring. These frequent Meetings confirming Merinda in the Opinion she had that Almeria was a Maid, turned Belida and Remonda to their first belief. Lupicin with the four Concurrents lost the suspicion they had that she was a Man, to embrace this, That these Strangers were perchince The Men which had shipwracked her Honour in the City. These surmises kindled their Fires, and their Fires redoubled their Jealousies, seeing themselves supplanted by persons unknown. Envy, saith the Wise Man, is the vice of base abject Spirits. This Monster whose Pain is another's Ease, and who feeds upon his own Heart, seated himself in the Souls of these Churls, who could not endure the lustre of so many gentile Qualities as rendered those Newcomers recommendable. And as Wolves, (Creatures that are singular, insociable, and which tear one another to pieces) do agree and go together, if there be question of falling upon a Flock of Sheep, or breaking down a Fold; So those Swains (who hated each other as Rivals) complotted with a secret intelligence how to chase away these strangers from Almeria, and conspired Machinations against her, which were the Effects of Hatred, though they proceeded from a contrary Cause.  
I omit their Reproaches and Detraction against her Innocency: For, their Jealousy being visible, our Gentlemen gave no credit to their Speeches, knowing that they troubled the pure Waters of that clear Fountain, only to hinder them from admiring and staying near it. It was a pleasure to see the Schism that was amongst them, and how their deceitful Lips uttered words quite opposite to their Hearts; Some reported that Almeria was a Man, pursued by the Justice for a Murder, and had transvested himself to avoid the punishment of his Crime; Others gave out that she was really a Maid, but of a debauched and lewd Life, who to shun the fury of her Parents (that would have chastised her for her Fault) or to Live with more Liberty, had clothed Herself in a Shepardesse's Weeds. One said she was a Citizen's Daughter, another that she was born in the Country; some said she was of one Province, others of another; Some affirmed she was Celian's Niece, others denied it. If Remonda called her Cousin, Merinda declared she knew her not; Belida gave her the style of Kinswoman, Lupicin used another term; In sum, never a one could agree with his Companion, their Relations and Opinions being as differing as their Faces. You would have said Almeria had been the Moon, for whom her Mother could not shape a Garment, because she was never long in the same condition. These various rumours marvellously divided the Spirits of Argal, and Pisides; for, amongst so many uncertainties they knew not what to apply their beliefs unto. Sometimes the Masculine courage of Almeria, and her vigorous exercises made them incline to the thought of her being a Male Feminized; and when she acted the Maid, the sweetness of her Carriage persuaded them the contrary. The brown tincture of her Complexion seemed to plead in favour of their former conjecture, but the Loveliness and attractive Motion of her Eyes confirmed them in the later. However that her Education or Birth were of an Air which resented nothing of Rusticity, was evident: Insomuch that they were really of the mind, that whilst they thought to cheat her with their disguises, she laughed at their Artifices, and by a coun-termine would render all their Endeavours fruitless. These imaginations they communicated to Iphigenes, who was ready to die with delight to see them so handsomely seduced. But Pomeran took no pleasure in these passages; for, out of all these contrary Relations, He drew these Consequences: If Almeria be a Man, and what is worse, a Murderer, What honour is it for us to amuse our Times about an Object, that one day upon a Gibbet must make Faces at those that pass? Indeed we are fallen into a rare conversation of Clowns and Gallows-clappers; If she be a Woman, and of a lose Life, what credit will it be for Iphigenes to sing the Wings of his desires at the Flame of so stinking a Torch? No, I cannot endure to see him cast himself away in the Embraces of a dissolute slut: But he must first be diverted by the sweetness of the Rays of solid Reasons, and afterwards by the violent Buffets of strong Remonstrances; and before the light of his Judgement be quite extinguished, he must be made to understand, that he is upon the Brink of a Precipice, whose fall is so steep, that if he do but trip, he will never be able to recover himself until he comes to the bottom.  
Iphigenes rejoicing to see him so perfectly mistaken, it cannot be imagined what delight he took in imparting these particulars to Almeria: And whilst he employed all his thoughts and time in entertaining his Penelope, those that accompanied him, seeing they could not make him hear of returning, fell a courting her Attendants; for, what else should I call the two Sisters & Belida, who were continually in Almeria's company? I should be too long if I should relate in what manner those subtle Wits inveagled the simplicity of those silly Maulkins: for, to doubt of the advantages which the quaintness of Courtiers hath above the rude ignorance of Countrie-People, were to make a question, when it is most light, at Noon or at Midnight. They made such fair Stories to those dull Souls, that presently they forgot the incertain Passion they had for Almeria, to frame new affections for these strangers, who told them wonders of their Flocks, of their possessions, and of the commodities of their Village which they described to be a Paradise on Earth; insomuch that all three Sisters were almost persuaded to follow them, out of a certain inclination, (natural to every Body) to seek that which is most advantageous. This bred strange thoughts in Celian, Lupicin, Fleurial, and the rest, seeing these unknown Persons, and who had nothing of Peasants but their outside, should breed alterations in the minds of those, where they had lodged their Affections. Nevertheless (as all base and dull-spirited Souls are always guilty of cowardice, what Anger soever their Malice is hatching, they have not courage enough to produce any bold, or resolute Effects) they quietly suffered themselves to be dispossessed of their ordinary Conversations. And this supplantation was easy enough, for the Clowns being pressed with Necessity, were more attentive at their Work and Profit, than their Pleasure; whereas these Strangers, having nothing else to do, than to spin out their Time, and besides, spending high, and making such cheer as the others were not accustomed to see, might with much facility have advanced their Designs, if they had had any other than to give their minds some recreation.  
In mean time Iphigenes who desired absolutely to blot out of Almeria's Thoughts the Affection of Clemencia, and place himself in her room, in making himself be cherished by his feigned Mistress, otherwise than a Friend, perished, like Tantalus, in presence of his Remedy. Hundreds of times He was upon the nick of Declaring all the secret to this beloved Object; But Boleslaüs (without whose advice he did nothing of importance) served as a Bridle to moderate the violence of his desires, telling him, that the time of his Manifestation was not yet expired, and that he must be contented until he was Repealed from banishment, to the end his Marriage might be in the establishment of a Fortune more favourable for Liante. Who will now furnish me with terms to express Resentments, which for their singularity, mee-think's, aught to be remitted to Thought alone? When these two Friends could steal any time to themselves, (for which they sought all possible opportunities) It was a pleasure to see the Admirations of Almeria, who sometimes thus entertained Iphigenes: My dear Brother, indeed it is not amiss that our so passionate conversation is not in my Sister's sight, for, although it is but her Image, and the lines of some resemblance of her which you love in me, doubtless she would find some cause to be jealous of her Picture: I never saw you so fond of her, nor render such endearing devoirs to the Original. It is true, that therein you were to be Excused by reason of the tenderness of your Age, which did not make you Susceptible of so great fire as you express to me, on purpose to deceive more neatly those who do attend you. To deal really, were not the advantages of our Sex incomparable, I could almost wish myself as my Habit speaks me, out of a conceit I have that you would love me as well as my Sister, and could I change my Nature, it should be merely to be your Wife, not to share in those Honours and Wealth which environ you, but for the Merits of your own Person, which are abundantly more Estimable than all the Benefits which blind Fortune distributeth ordinarily to those that have no real Desert. Oh! why am not I Almeria indeed? and these feigned Affections which you so dexterously do represent to me, why are not they essential? Believe me, after that, my Ambition would be at an end. Who can but think that this Discourse deliciously flattered the imagination of Iphigenes? who to prolong that agreeable amusement, and still touch that String whose sound was so Harmonious in his Ears, thus replied:  
You may see, Brother, how far doth transport me not the Love of an Image, as you imagine, but the power of my Friendship to you, I say to you, to your Person, to Liante as Liante, not as the Portraiture of Modestina: Indeed I love her, as my duty obligeth me, but do not you know that nothing is so ill performed out of that Respect, as Loving, since that Passion, being the Daughter of our Will, retaineth something of the Mother's Disposition, whose Element, or rather Substance, is Freedom? But besides the constraint of a Matrimonall Bond, (which how golden soever it be, is always a Bond) in my mind that Sex, in regard of its frailty, is so little capable to sustain that straight and durable Knot of a true Friendship, that the greatest inclination a Man can have for Women, is nothing in comparison to that pure and cordial Affection which he bear's to a Friend, who is his second self. For, it is betwixt two equal Hearts that is form that reciprocal correspondence, wherein consisteth the Essence of Friendship. In that you apprehend to wish yourself of another Sex to attract from me a more ardent Affection, you have reason, considering, that were to wish a mighty inconvenience for a mean advantage: For, perchance if you were as your Sister is, my Affection would be much less fervent to you, for than I should look upon you with more Compassion than Passion, as a brittle Vessel more worthy of Pity than Envy. Yet if your Heart invites you to desire a condition so miserable as that of Women (whom God and Nature have Created to be subject unto Men) to augment in me an Affection which is already infinite; Give me leave to answer your wish, who without Dissimulation or Consultation would, to the greatest contentment of my Soul, relinquish not only the favour of the Court, the dignity of my Palatinate, and the benefits I receive by the bounty of the best and most liberal Prince in the World, (the King my Master) but all that I am, to purchase me the power of being your Wife. It is I who am really jealous of Clemencia, and who would gladly have but so much privilege of your thoughts as my Sister, whose inconstant Soul was so shaken with the wind of my Father's fury, that she would have been persuaded to marry Cassin, had not the disdain of seeing his Mother desirous of my Bed, made him retire out of Podolia sooner than Mieslas expected. Oh fickle Girl! said I, when I saw her so poor-spirited in an encounter, where she needed but to have spoken boldy, and carved out a Negative. Oh wavering Girl, said I, and unworthy of so perfect a Lover as Liante! had the Heavens put me in thy place, I would surely have showed more Fidelity and Resolution: But what can be expected from that Sex, but infirmities, since it is the pure substance of Debility, and therefore always shivering and moving like a Leaf? Yet what defects soever I do condemn in that Sex, I would not greatly care if I myself were of it, if I thought thereby to be more yours, or that you would love me as well as my Sister.  
Here Almeria taking the word out of Iphigenes mouth, said; Believe me, Brother, That if you love me as much or more than my Sister (whereunto I can hardly be persuaded, knowing the little reason you have) it is the like with me; and as if our Stars had Embraced at our Births (to Express my Resentments naturally, and nakedly to you) I never had by many degrees so much inclination for Clemencia as for you; and thereby I find that Friendship hath a more powerful ascendent over my Heart than Love, which, to say the Truth, is a Passion too Effeminate to have any regency in a Masculine spirit. And to give you assurance that the Resentments are real, which make me declare myself in these Terms, Hold for most certain that Clemencia shall never be any thing more to me than what you please, and if you conceive that it may be for her advantage to Marry the Prince Cassin, and mine to have another Wife, I will most freely renounce all those Pretensions, which your Persuasions induced me to have for her, my desire subscribing willingly to your command. Iphigenes seeing Almeria arrived at that Point, whereunto he most passionately desired to reduce her Resolution, was strongly tempted to disclose the secret of his Birth; But, not having the conveniency to consult his two Oracles, his Mother and his Governor, he contained himself, but with such pain as may better be imagined than described. So, contenting himself to have absolutely withdrawn Almeria's thoughts from Clemencia, which was the clog that most oppressed his Mind, and to have obtained her consent to his Sister's alliance with Cassin, promising to find another Match that should raise her Fortunes infinitely beyond what she could have hoped by Clemencia; It is requisite, said he, to conceal yourself from those whom my Father hath incharged to apprehend and carry you to him Alive or Dead, that you continue this Life, until we can find the means to convey you into the City, or until my Relegation being repealed, I may send for you to the Court, where by the King's Authority I doubt not but to secure you from the Tyranny of Mieslas, and shall take order for the advancement of your Fortune. Mean time for our Recreations, let us persist in dazzling the Eyes of those that are about us, as well your Rustics as my Attendants: Therefore the more ardour I shall express to you, the more disdainfully do you treat me, the better to wipe out of their thoughts the sinister Opinion, which they have conceived, that you are a Maid of an unchaste Life. And to the end our Conversation may be more frequent, I have an intention to put myself likewise as a Servant to Celian, whom, I presume, we shall draw to any thing by the powder of Injection, wherewith we will fill both his Hands and his Eyes; making him believe, that to avoid the rigour of our Parents, who would not consent to the terminating of our Legitimate Affections by the sacred tie of Matrimony, we have been constrained to leave our Native City, and make use of this stratagem to meet and enjoy more freely each other's company, but with all the Civility, that can be expected from persons which make profession of Chastity.  
Almeria who was in the Hand of Iphigenes, as clay in the Potter's, condescended to whatsoever he propounded; And in effect a Purse full of Chequines, or Crowns of Gold, had no sooner made the Preface of Iphigenes Speech to Celian, but he believed the rest as an Oracle, and with both hands pressed it to a conclusion; And taking this occasion as an occurrence of Treasure, he prayed Iphigenes to dispose of all that was within his small power, as his own, and under the notion of Servant to command as Master. This did not displease the old Man's Daughters, who were not so blockish as not to like the company of this new Guest; Only Manile was ready to run beyond his Reason, protesting with many Oaths to his Father to leave his House if he entertained that stranger. Celian to pacify him, shown him how he was an enemy to his own good Fortune; telling him that those Angels were not only the Guardians, but the enrichers of his Family. Whereunto He, being deafened by Jealousy, could give no ear, but continued murmuring incessantly against his Father's covetousness. Mean time Almeria to disabuse her two lately created Kins-women, tell's them another new forgery.  
It is true, said she, I came hither in Man's Habit, having made use thereof to withdraw myself from under my Parent's Wings, not that I had made any breach in my Honour, but fallen off from my Obedience to them. And I thought that their severity did furnish me with a Sufficient dispensation: For, being desired in Marriage by one Iphis, a Young Gentleman richer and of a better Extraction than I am, although contrary to the will of his friends, in whose Opinion I seemed too mean a Fortune for him, my Father not daring to promise me to him without the consent of his Father, whose power was redoubtable, we deliberated, (to be free from that servitude) to betake ourselves to the wide World; and therefore having put on Disguises, to facilitate our Escapes, we fled into these Woods, expecting until Time, which bring's all things to perfection, should dispose our Parent's wills to condescend to our chaste desires. Thus in few words you have the History of our Lives, wherein I see no other Crime than this ardent Affection which hath made us fall, not into any Dishonesty (for we detest Vice with horror) but into some sort of Lightness & immodesty, which may easily be pardoned by them, who know to what Extrmities are transported those that are touched, with the same Passion that animates our Souls. This Discourse she made to Merinda, Remonda & Belida which being ended, the two later looked as disdainfully as their Passion could make them upon the other, reproaching her of the false Accusations she had raised against Almeria's Honesty; Whereupon Merinda very confusedly, Answered, that Almeria had with so many different Stories overturned her belief, that indeed she knew not how to trust her, her former Lies prejudicing what Truths she might afterwards deliver.  
To represent the divers Motions this last Invention cast into the spirits of these three Parcaes, would require too much time: for, seeing their hopes nipped in the Bud, as well on Almeria's part (whom one while they thought to be a Man) as on the other Stranger's, whom they imagined did keep them company only to wait on Iphis, they concurred, like the Parcaes indeed, in the same conclusion, which was to cut the Thread of these strange Practices, by hunting away those unknown Persons that disturbed their repose. The same Design had Lupicin and his companions; But before they came to any violence, and to make use of the Lion's skin, they were not so little politic as not to know that the Foxe's ought to be employed first, having gained so much power over themselves as to dissemble what they thought. However they broke their minds to Celian, laying before his Eyes the many hazards, whereunto he exposed himself by concealing in his House persons that were liable to the Law, and who durst not show their Heads for fear of the Justice: But, the virtue of that yellow metal (which is the measure of all things) had so strongly operated in his brain, that he was incapable of any other reason, than that of his profit.  
In mean while the Time passed away so deliciously with Iphigenes, who serving with a condition to do no Work, (which was likewise Almeria's Agreement) saw not only every day, but every hour of the day, the beloved Object, which only could comfort him, and yet which was the sweet cause of all his disquietness. Great was the astonishment of his Friends to see, that Passion had reduced him to so vile a Function; Especially Pomeran was in an unspeakable anguish for his Transfiguration, yet durst not speak much to him for fear of exasperating his humour, knowing that fair persuasions would prevail much more upon his generous spirit, than the sharpness of Reproaches. Argal and Pisides were more moderate and complacent, making a  construction of all his Actions, yet they could not sometimes but resent a little indignation to see him so Wedded to that Almeria, in whom observing no such exquisite Beauty, they could not imagine whence should proceed those Charms that so strongly bewitched, and besotted his Reason; then, condemning themselves again of too much harshness, they sought Excuses in the tenderness of their Affections to him, saying, This fantasy will not last long, it is too violent, the necessity of the affairs of his charge will shortly call him back to his Government; All these passages will quickly be carried to the Court, and Shame will make him forsake this enterprise. The actions of great Persons, how secret soever they be, are at last divulged, such public Ministers can act nothing in private. Those that are exposed to the light of the Day, and to the view of the whole World, cannot remain long in obscurity. Mean time we must endure this storm, and take our share of this unpleasant pastime; we would willingly follow the Palatine in some other occasions, as more glorious, so more perilous; the worst that can befall in this, is but laughter; and besides, the Passion which produceth these actions, carrieth its excuse in its blindness. Thus did the friends of Iphigenes discourse amongst themselves, But He was like unto those who having Ulcers in their Bodies, do not apprehend any thing more than the hand of the Surgeon.  
Presents, saith an Ancient Writer, pacify both the Gods and Men; the Heavens and the Earth have a delight in receiving; He that invented Gifts, hath forged Chains to enthral Hearts. The poor Peasants have a custom to bring petty Presents to their Landlords, either to preserve or purchase their Favours; And our Rustics received Gifts from those strangers to let them live peaceably amongst them. Celian was ravished, and thought it was Jupiter that was come to visit his House in a shower of Gold, his Daughters were all repaired with the Favours Iphigenes and his Companions bestowed on them; Not so much as Lupicin, Fleurial, Manile, Antalcas and Polemas, but every one of them resented the benefits of their Benevolence, besides the good Cheer which they made every day at their charge, Wine being as plentiful with them as Water, and no spare made of delicate Dishes. These Exercises of the Teeth hindered for a while their Tongues from murmuring, and did make as it were a Dam to stop the torrent of their envy. Nothing was to be thought upon but Feasts and Banquets after the Country fashion, wherein Iphigenes made a great show with a little Expense. He was presently taken for a Grand Monsieur, and Almeria for some Lady of quality; And since he was so willing to pay all, those Trencher-Friends cared not greatly for working, every Day was Holiday with them upon that account, and to keep Holiday after the Boor's fashion, is, not to labour at all, unless it be with the Teeth and Gullet, Eating much and Drinking not a little; That done, Hunting, Fishing, walking amongst the Groves, or reposing upon the fragrant Banks of the Crystal River, repeating Verses, or making Eclogues upon the pleasures of the Rural Life, to the no less admiration of the silly Swains, than the satisfaction of the rest, was their recreation for certain Days, which though then being at the longest of the Year, they thought the Sun did Gallop away too fast.  
Iphis during these Divertisements having taken all occasions to manifest the fervency of his Passion to Almeria, and she as cunningly (according to their former Agreement) carrying herself with much indifference towards him, so puzzled the imaginations of the Assistants, that it was hard to say which were most surprised, the Countrymen or the Courtiers: For, having remarked nothing in either of them of Rustic but their Habits, if those did guests Iphis to be some great Man, these judged Almeria of an extraction far above that Vile (if I may not say) servile condition which she had then embraced. Yet not remembering that ever Iphis had been engaged in any Amoretta's at Court, nor at Plocens, nor in Podolia, they could not devise where he should have contracted so particular an acquaintance with Almeria, whose condition it was impossible they should e'er divine, having never seen Liante. And that which troubled them most of all, was to see that Iphis, who was far more beautiful than Almeria, had such an extraordinary Passion for an Object that seemed not to answer his Flames, but with a kind of disdain. But these Enigma's requiring a more ample Explanation, Night came on, which Eclipsing the Light of the Day, cast them into a double Darkness, both of Mind and Body, the ignorance of a truth being no less an obscurity to the understanding, than the shade of Night is to the Corporal sight, which depriveth it of its Function.  
The Night was differently spent by this disguised Company: For, whilst some troubled their Heads with projecting how to expound the Artificial Demeanours of Iphis and Almeria (which gave many strange Alarms to their thoughts) These did meditate new and handsomly-contrived Frauds, to render them blind at high Noon. Having then conferred in private (which conveniency they had by lodging in the same House, though always in the presence of Boleslaüs, whom Iphis might well call the Guardian of his Integrity) they determined to change their parts, and make the Rustics believe that Iphis was a Maid (which was but too true) and Almeria a Man (which was not false:) to which effect, that the next Morning stealing very early into the Woods, they should change Habits, and put in Execution this Stratagem, as followeth. Boleslaüs' conductor of the Bark having approved of the Design (partly out of a desire to see if his dear Nursling could act the Woman's part so well, as she had till then naturally represented the personage of a Man) the performance was extremely easy.  
Scarce had the clear Aurora opened the grand Gates of the Orient, to give passage to Titan's Chariot, but our Diana and her Endymion lost themselves in the Forest. Boleslaüs only (who upon the Sea of such perilous occasions never lost the sight of Iphis, no more than Mariners do the Pole) was Witness Complice of their Conspiragy. When the Brigade of the Feigned as well as Real Swains were assembled betimes, thinking to advise with the two Lovers wherewith to deceive the hours of the following Day, the Gemini (the Stars whereby they steered their course) appeared not; This was a foul storm for them, and which struck them with the fear of a Shipwreck. Every one thought diversely, and spoke according to his Fancy. One said Almeria was not so rigorous as she seemed, and that the backwardness she shown, was but a feigned Copy of her Countenance. Another's Verdict was, that she that would steal away from her Friends in that manner, would do worse. A third Man alleged, that it was not likely that she should continue long without discovering what she was, and that she that could make a Pannier could make a Basket. Some made this construction of their going away, some that. Proteus' never assumed so many several shapes, as this absenting themselves had Explications. Celian was very sorry for the loss of two such profitable Guests, who were as the two Teats, from which his griping hunger of gain found Suck in abundance. He stood amazed like a rich Miser that hath lost his Treasure, he grumbled and railed against his Children, for not keeping amity with those goodly Angels, who would have put Wealth and Felicity in his House. And alas! They were rather more perplexed than He; For if Almeria had carried away with her the Hearts of all the Men, Iphis had gained no less ground in the Affections of his Daughters by his admirable Beauty and extraordinary Bounty. But the most astonished of all were Pomeran, Argal and Pisides, (for the rest were at home;) To remain any longer in that Rustic equipage, was quite against the hair with them, for, it was merely the desire of complying with the Palatine's humour, that brought them thither, and by his absence that complacency fell to the Ground. They resolved however to expect the return of Iphis for a while, considering they were not far from the City of Plocens, whither they could at all times make their retreat, if the too long want of his presence should drive them into impatience.  
The most amiable occupation of those who have nothing to do, being Hunting: They commanded the Countrymen to follow them, having already given them to understand that they were Gentlemen of that Noble-man's retinue, whom they called Iphis. Gain and good Cheer (after which your Plough-Joggers will run and throng as thick as Flies in a Kitchen) were main Spurs to prick on their Observance, for these they were their humble Servants, ready at the first call, (that sort of People, although they were never so Lubberly and Heavy-headed, Gold will make them like quick Silver, and as nimble as Mercury, this Metal puts Wings to their Heels, and makes them skip like Squirrels.  
Whilst they are going to their Stands, let us see what's become of our two Lovers, accompanied by the Moderator of their Passions. How joyful were they to see themselves rid of the pesterment of their Companions, whose too observant Eyes followed the motion of their least actions? That moment of Liberty after such painful restrictions, was no less agreeable to them than the pleasure which a poor Prisoner feeleth, when his Irons are taken off. Being fallen upon the Discourse of their feigned Passions, they protested to each other, that those Artificial Expressions proceeded from a real Resentment; And that as the whole Universe could not produce an Example of Friendship comparable to theirs; So, if there were a distinction of Sex, it would be the most perfect Love, and the happiest Marriage in the World. Thence proceeding to the recital of the handsome contrivance, and conduct of their Mummery (as one may call it) they were ready to split with laughing to see that neither Iphis' Friends, nor the Peasants knew what to think or say. Judge you what contentment the subtle Boleslaüs had in beholding those two Hearts, so united by the Bond of Friendship, that it seemed as if one Soul had animated both their Bodies; especially when Almeria embracing Iphis with as much Simplicity as Tenderness, thus began; My dear Brother, Mee-think's those Clowns were no Fools, when they said that thou hadst the Beauty of an Angel; for, I believe, if thou were't a Woman, all Men would fall in love with thee; As for my own particular all the Men, and all the Women in the World are nothing to my Eyes, in comparison of thee; the Affection I bear to thee, (although limited within the bounds of Honour and Decency) hath I know not what tender Resentment, which I do not feel for all the rest of my Friends. Pomeran, Argal and Pisides (to give them their due) are very gallant Men; but, to my sense, they are no better than Statues to you; And yet it is not the greatness of your quality that dazleth my sight, but the only merit of your Person.  
To this endearing Language Iphis presently replied, not without smiling upon Boleslaüs; And I believe, Brother, that I have been wounded with the same Dart for thee; for, all Women are so indifferent to me when I am in thy Presence, that methink's there are none in the World; and this Name and this Disguisement of Almeria, strikes so deep into my Imagination, that what thou thinkest I speak but in Jest, is unfeignedly the production of my Soul's most tender thoughts: And if thou wert in Effect what thou art but in show, I swear there is no Queen upon the Earth, whom I would have more willingly for my Wife than thyself. I prithee, Brother, (answered Liante, do not talk to me of being a Woman any further than in Habit; For, were it to make me the Wife of the greatest of Monarches, I would not be of any other Sex than I am. But I'll assure thee, said Iphis, that were it only to be Married to Liante, I should be glad to be a Woman: And, that thou mayst know with what sincerity I speak, if it be impossible for me to be so, I promise thee, that I will lose all the remainder of my Credit in the Court, or I will make thee Marry the most Eminent Lady in Polonia; And I am very certain, that it shall be merely thy own fault, if thou failest of that fortune; For, the King cannot deny Me that Grace, when I shall demand it in thy favour.  
Almeria, as if with the Woman's Habit she had likewise put on the curiosity, was very importunate with Iphis to name that so advantageous Party; that she might dispose her Courage to do some generous action, that might make her deserve so high an Alliance. It is not yet time, answered Iphis, that I should satisfy you therein; Wine, Love, and a Secret, if once vented, are worth nothing; you shall know it in its season. Content yourself now to learn only that to merit the Possessions of so rare a Subject, you shall not need to run any further dangers, than what you have already undergone, and that it depends entirely on my will: For, of the Person whom I mention I have the absolute disposal; Almeria Smiling upon Boleslaüs whispered in his Eire, I know whom he means, and what she is; It is his Ward Eleonora, Daughter to Stanislas, his Predecessor in the Palatine of Uratislau, but the fruit is not yet ripe, a great deal of Straw and much Time will be required to bring that Medlar to perfection. Boleslaüs' glad to see her in that pretty Error, told Iphis aloud what she had said, who was extremely well pleased that she understood it so, and to stick her deeper in her mistake, The expectation (said he) will not be so long as you may imagine, I was not above two or three Years elder when I was Married to your Sister: However, the party whom I intended for you is in Estate and all things else so far beyond Clemencia, who possessed your thoughts for a time, that when you see her you will not stand to consult which choice you should make.  
At these words Almeria casting herself amiably upon Iphis Neck, as the amorous Vine embraceth its Supporter, the Elm I prithee dear Brother, said she, speak not to me of any other Party than thy service; for, as long as thou wilt own me, I will never enslave myself to any Wife; or, rather, if you please, as long as you will permit me to be your Servant. I will have no other Master; or else if you think fit to Honour me still with the style of your Mistress, I will never have any other Servant. Iphis ravished to see her so perfectly deceived, would willingly have returned some answer, but that Almeria held his Mouth so straight besieged and blocked up with Kisses, that he had not passage for one single word, Only their Tongues advancing to the Superficies of their Lips, made a mutual communication of their Thoughts, and those Thoughts engendered such Resentments as transported them almost into that Ecstasy which all Philosophy holds for the most powerful Effects of Love.  
Boleslaüs, who feared lest that Fire which quickeneth when it is in mediocrity, and consumeth when in Excess, should be kindled so fat in his Nursling's veins, that afterwards it could hardly be extinguished, to separate these Metals, made use of the Water of Depart, that they might better practise those Caresses in their second Transvestment, wherein Serife should be more  to Calliante, than Almeria had been to Iphis, which intimated that it was time for them to undress and change their Garments. Heavens: what do I say? Be not disturbed chaste Souls, I will speak nothing but what the most rigorous Vestal may hear without blushing, and without the least interest of her Modesty. Here it was that the natural pudicity of Iphis acted its part, and that Almeria by her bold, not to say impudent, Actions did plainly show what She was, by reason of her Sex, which rendereth Men less bashful: For, as if She had had great haste to become Man again, She presently cast off that shameful habit, which belying Her spirit had violented Her Nature. Whereas Iphis could not put off His without much regret; for which purpose he begged the protection of a thick copse to hid the tumour of Her Breasts, which began to broach Treason against him. Whereupon Almeria in a jesting manner said, What? Servant do you hid yourself from me, in a condition, wherein by your past sighs you seemed to have lodged the chief of your felicity? See, how he counterfeits the Woman already. Truly he hath reason, said Boleslaus, to give Iphis time to go away; for, it is more shameful for a Man to take upon him a Woman's attire, than for you, who are a Man, to resume your own natural Habit.  
It was in the time of the most excessive Heats, when the delightful coldness of the Water is most desired; So, there being not far off a River, which gently rolling its Crystal, or rather liquid Silver upon the Golden Sands, Almeria cast herself into it, carrying her Body as gracefully, and with as much ease along the stream, as a Swan doth seem to glide upon the face of a smooth Pond. Agreeable Water (said she washing herself) purify me, I pray, from the Ordures I have contracted under a Habit, which hath sullied the generosity of my Sex: And since it was from your Element that the Goddess which causeth Love did receive her Being, make my excuse to those that shall reproach my Effeminacy, and tell them that this Passion is of such a Nature, that as it infuseth courage into the basest spirits, So it makes guilty of unworthy actions those that before had never sacrificed but to Glory, as the only aim of of all generous Hearts. Let your Current, gentle River, carry all my follies into the bosom of the Sea, and drown in the depth of Oblivion the Name of Almeria, which I leave with her Garments. Whilst she was thus bathing herself, and the water, which greedily environed her on all sides, served as a transparent vestment, Boleslaüs conveyed her clothes to Iphis, who could not be so soon uncased for peeping at this swimmer through the boughs of the envious Trees, which seemed to be jealous of the attention of his Eyes upon that curious Spectacle.  
As he was revesting himself in Almeria's Robes, See Father (said he to Boleslaüs) to what the vehemency of my Passion reduceth me: For, without feigning, whilst he that is the Legitimate Object of my desires is refreshing himself in that Water, I consume myself in this Wood, which would likewise be burned if it were susceptible of my flames. Being by the help of Boleslaüs quite dressed, Oh how handsome you are, my dear Foster-Daughter; (said the old Man) The Goddess of Cyprus came not so beautiful out of Thetys' Bosom, as you appear in this Equipage. If in the habit of a Man you did cast so many fires amongst the Ladies at Court, with this you will set all Men, that look upon you, on fire: But be wary, and keep yourself upon your guard, for, at this Game, oftentimes he that intends to take, is taken. After this advertisement he went to carry Almeria the  which Iphis had put off, which being of the Country-make, that is, not only not fit, but a great deal bigger than needed, it was no hard business for our Masculine Nymph to get them on.  
As the weary Pilgrim after a tedious travel rejoiceth at the review of his Native Soil; Such was the gladness of Liante to see himself again in his Natural Garb. After his dipping in that pleasant Bath, our Reformed or Metamorphosed Shepardess from the mouth of Boleslaüs received a new Name, which yet somewhat disguised his own, before he borrowed that of Almeria; it was Calliante; the fair Iphis called himself Serife, and under this name, as under his Shepherdesse's weeds, she appeared before the Astonished Calliante; I say Astonished: For, to see Serife, and to be touched, possessed and ravished, was one and the same motion in his Soul. What? said he to Boleslaus, is this Iphis? No, answered the grave Senior, it is Serife, a handsome Shepherdess of this Country, which hath taken his place, und covered herself with the  which you put off; For, the name of Iphis is buried in this wood: And as that Water hath transformed you from a Shepherdess into a Man (as the Fable reports of the Fountain of Salmacis) what know you, but that Iphis may have Eaten of some Fruit in this Wood, the virtue whereof may have Metamorphosed him likewise from a comely Youth into a lovely Nymph? This he said Smiling. But Calliante replied seriously, Father, I know not where I am, nor what I am: neither can I persuade myself that I am awake, and see what I have before my Eyes. Is it not a Dream? am not I asleep? This he said rubbing his Eyes. Is not this an Enchanted Forest? Is this some vain Apparition, or a real Body, which under the lines of my Iphis Countenance, presents to my View a Serife? Boleslaus, I am not so easily deceived, Either I am no Man, or that is a perfect Woman; I will pawn my life that you have played me some trick. Speak, Beautiful Angel, that I may know you, and be assured whether you are indeed Serife, to me you shall be a Serafine, for, I will honour you as a Celestial Creature, you shall be my good Angel, my Tutelary Saint, my Ursa or my Pole, towards whom shall ever turn the Needle of my most sincere affections. In this Passion casting himself upon his knees, and taking her by the hand, he thus continued; Beautiful Serife, hold me no longer in suspense, but tell me who you are, that I may know whose I am: For, howsoever Fortune shall dispose of me, I can be no other than yours, from you henceforwards will proceed all my Felicities or Disasters. This said, he offered to lay his Lips to her Hands, but Serife hastily snatching them away would permit no such Familiarity, nor gratify him with so great a Favour. By this, cried out Calliante, I find that Boleslaus hath supposed a Serife in the place of my Iphis, or I am bewitched: For, if it were Iphis, to what purpose should he deny me so small a Favour, who whilst I was Almeria, made no Scruple of casting his Arms about my neck, and joining Lips to Lips? Speak therefore; Sweet Serife, that I may hear from your own mouth my Doom, unless this Sorcery hath enchanted my Ears as well as my Sight.  
The newly transformed Serife perceiving by these transported expressions, that her beauty had wrought strange effects in the surprised Calliante, with a tone of Voice that would have extracted the Essence of an affectionate resentment from the most barbarous Soul, answered; Really, Brother, You sergeant the Lover so feelingly, that if you continue to act your part so handsomely, no creature will be able to judge but that indeed you are in Love, and this will be the best means we can have to usher our Enterprise to the intended perfection. How, counterfeit? replied Calliante, do you take me for an Orlando upon a Stage, who makes a show of being Furious or Passionate, when he is only so in his gesture, and Extravagant actions? I pray, esteem me not of that rank, but believe that I am what I seem, and that what I say proceeds from the most Entire and tender resentment of my Heart; For, although that Face and that Speech represent to my Eyes and Ears my dear Iphis, yet I am so taken with Serife, that if you change not that habit, I shall never change my Passion, and hence-forwards farewell the thoughts of any Woman: For, though I would rather that the Earth should open under my Feet to swallow me, than give that Crime admittance into my Breast, which cannot be imagined, much less named without horror; Yet I may say with much truth that my Soul is so glued (as it were) to yours, and your affection hath so penetrated my Heart, that I love you above the love of Women. This is to be understood in the chastest manner conceivable; For, without Honour and Virtue, no Union of Hearts can bear the sacred name of Friendship: Otherwise, the Societies of Thiefs and Infamous persons would assume that glorious title; which would be too great a Profanation. Therefore dear Serife, do me the courtesy to persuade yourself that I use no Dissembling in my Protestation of Service to you, or in the Declaration which I make, that your Idea banisheth out of my Fancy all other Images; Insomuch that my Spirits are so taken up with your perfection, that there is hardly any room within my self for my self.  
They had continued longer in this discourse, (Calliante being no less ravished with Serife's agreeable presence, than Serife with a secret glory to see that she had reduced under her obedience a Captive, the possession of whom was the greatest happiness her Ambition did pretend:) But that Boleslaüs (who playing the Mirth-marrer at this Triumph, put Water into this fuming Wine, lest drunk with delight they should be surprised, and their own Felicity render them unfortunate) interrupted them, showing the danger they ran of discovering their Stratagem, if they were found together by those whom they had left in the Village, who Infallibly would leave no place in the Forest unvisited to seek them out. Heavens! what sweet words did he stop in their Mouths, separating them in that moment wherein they were producing expressions, whose rehearsal would have much embellished these Pages! But since Action doth better satisfy the Reader's curiosity than Discoursing, let us see what succeeded this new changing of habits, which for an Iphis and Almeria, hath brought us forth a Serife and a Calliante.  
Calliante took a way by himself, and Boleslaüs accompanied Serife a contrary, unto a Village not far from that where Celian lived; where leaving her, he returned to seek Pomeran, Argal and Pisides, where he had left them; But he found none but the three Sisters, Merinda, Belida and Remonda, who looked like Pictures that had lost their Colour and Lustre with the light: For, being deprived of Almeria, (who was their Ornament and Splendour, though the Object of their Envy) they were like Fishes upon the dry ground. When they saw Beleslaüs (who, they thought, had been gone away with Iphis and Almeria) they were in hopes of hearing some news of them from him: But, he feigning to have run several ways to inquire after them, without meeting any one that could inform him, seemed to be much amazed at their so sudden departure; and to underfeel their censures, he made very Sinister judgements of their stealing thus away; Then, ask what was become of his Companions, he learned that they were gone with the Swains a hunting, partly to follow the tract of the runaway, partly to divert by that exercise the discontentment which they suffered by their absence. Whereupon the old Man, who by the privilege of his age was more inclined to his repose, than so much Coursing which debilitateth Huntsmen, and makes them buy a little pleasure with much pain, resolved to expect their return, passing the time in discourse with Celian and his Daughters, and observing carefully the motions of those Souls diversely passionate upon the subject of those Fugitives.  
Celian lamented their absence out of sense of his own Interest, having lost the profits which he hoped to have gained by their presence: the rest, either moved with Affection, or prioked with Jealousy, and all floating in uncertainties, manifested their Passions the more naturally, the less capable their Clownishness did render them of those arts, which the more polite Spirits do use to cover their weaknesses. Already Titan's panting Sleeds hasting to refresh themselves in the Western Waves, extended the shadow of the Mountains, when on a sudden a great noise and winding of Horns from the thickest part of the Forest pierced their Ears, intimating that a great Troop of Huntsmen with a no small pack of Hounds were making that way. These were our disguised Courtiers, and the perfect Clowns, which had met in the Forest with Iphigenes' chief Ranger, who to keep his Horses and his Hounds in breath had taken all the Palatines hunting Equipage to harbour a lusty Stag, which he had imprimed there. But in regard this meeting was not unpleasant, it will not be impertinent to spend a little time in relating the manner.  
This Stag which bore all his rights, and whom Age had taught many wiles, made so many doublings or turn, that he put the subtlest and best-sented Hounds to a loss; whilst the nimble footed beast taking advantage of their delays, hastened his Course towards a Pond, whose desired Waters he had no sooner perceived, but he plunged himself into the midst, bathing his overheated tongue in that refreshing Liquor, which he seemed to suck all into his thirsty Throat, to quench the Fire that burned in his Stomach; engaging his whole Body (covered with Sweat and Foam) so far in the Water, that nothing appeared but his Head, couching his Horns upon his Back in the same manner as when he used to swim. Our Clowns having discovered him, made him quickly leave that agreeable refreshment, galling him with their Arrows; but the Wounds were so slight that they hindered not his Flight, which they were not able to follow, being not so light-timbred as that swift Animal; and hearing on the other side by the retorting of the Echoes the confused noyle of the Huntsmen, and the Cry of the Hounds, they resolved to direct their steps that way, to inform the Huntsmen of the fearful Fugitive's retreat. And in effect they found them so puzzled to find out the cunning turn, wherewith that subtle Beast had embroiled his Strain, that without their directions the Chase had been at an end. But the pleasure was to see the Huntsmen take the Change as well as their Hounds: For, Pomeran, Pisides, and Argal being disguised, and mingled without distinction with the Swains, they were not known by Arcade nor any of his Companions. So that passing all for Country-fellows (the custom of Princes and Noble men's Huntsmen, especially in that Conntry, being to domineer over the Peasants, and force them by menaces, rather than entreat them to be assistant to them) Pisides and Argal, seeming to be the nimblest and most dextrous of the Gang were commanded by the chief Huntsman to go with them to the Pond, whence they had Chased the Stag, that by the Blood which their Arrows had drawn out of his sides, the Dogs might recover the Sent. This made Pomeran say to his Comrades, laughing, what an Ancient Philosopher said of himself That they paid the Interest of their ill looks: Thou art mistaken, answered Arcade, it is because they are likelier men than thou, that I take them. Sir, said Argal to the Hunt-sman, if you ride very fast we shall not be able to follow you, for we are very unfit men to be Lackeys. Sirrah, said Philaster, I'll make thee find thy feet, and if thou come'st not away quickly, I shall put mettle into thee. He had his Arm already up to measure Pisides o'er the Shoulders, who not being accustomed to such caresses, slipped aside to avoid the blow, saying, You Master Huntsman, me thinks it would become you better to go on Foot, and me to Ride, if you would please to alight, we should end the Chase more conveniently. This he said thinking Philaster would know him by his Voice; But whether the heat of his Game, or the strangeness of Piside's habit rendered him so little , he replied; How now Rascal, dost thou jeer me? As I am a Gentleman, thou shalt pay for thy Insolence. With that he was going to join the Effect to his Promise, when Pomeran, calling him by his name, said, Hold, art thou blind? dost thou not know Pisides under this Peasant's Coat? He that meets a Ghost when he thinks least of it, is less Astonished than Philaster was, hearing those words, and understanding the Error which he was going to commit. So, leaping from his Horse, and falling on his Knees, he demanded pardon of him whom he would have beaten, making many excuses, accompanied with Protestations, that were needless, since the disguisemement rendered the offence nothing. Pisides and Argal turning all to laughter, took Philaster's Horse and Armelin's; Arcade would have given Pomeran his, but being unwilling to dismount the chief Conductor of the Game, he took another. So, some running on Foot, some on Horseback, they continued their Chase. The Hounds having recovered the Sent, followed the Stag full-cry, until being brought to the Bay, he rendered his life with Tears, and lamentable Groans, to the violence of the pitiless Hounds, and the force of our Gentleman's Spears, who took pleasure to pierce him in divers places. The Chase being thus ended, they satisfied the Hunts-men's admiration, by telling them that the Palatine was in that Forest, disguised in the same manner for his divertisement, incharging them not to say who they were, but only that they were Gentlemen of their acquaintance. Having thus given them their lesson, they returned to Celian's Village, there to break up their prey, and make good cheer for their Countrymen. Their arrival comforted the old Man, who intended to kill the fat Calf if his Iphis had been returned: But his joy was very short, when he perceived not in all that company his desired Iphis and Almeria, and notwithstanding all their jonkets, he could not be merry, because those two persons whom he loved more than his own Children did not appear. But Boleslaüs having given him some hopes of not being much longer deprived of their sights, he made of Necessity a Virtue.  
But it would be hard to say whose astonishment was greatest, that of Boleslaüs, Seeing Iphigenes Servants and all his Hunting-Equipage; or their's to see Boleslaüs, whom they knew to be the inseparable shadow of their Master's Body. However the discreet Old Man, knowing the Palatin's Intentions and most secret Thoughts, told them that Iphigenes would not be well pleased to find them there, where he concealed himself for some very important Affairs; therefore he willed them to return next Morning betimes to Plocens. Which command they readily obeyed; For, hardly the Breaking Day had summoned the watchful Stars to prepare themselves for a retreat, but the Huntsmen (as early as the Precursor of the Morn's approach) cast themselves again into the Forest, with design to coast over the Country, Hunting, to theirs Master's House. But the adventure of their return deserve's the time to consider it.  
The Passionate Serife, whose senses felt no small commotions in Calliante's Presence, had during the Night, and in his absence lost the benefit of repose; For, this Idea was so lively imprinted in her mind, that she was continually in Alarm until her sight restored to her Eyes that malignly-sweet consolation, which is taken in the aspect of the Object beloved (the source of perplexing Agonies no less dear than troublesome.) Scarce had Aurora Guilded o'er the Girdle of the Horizon, but leaping out of her Bed (which seemed to her as if it had been strewed with Thorns) she went into the Wood to entertain her Thoughts; sweet Thoughts, which hover within the circumference of Love's Dominion still lighted upon Calliante as their Centre, her Designs aiming at nothing but to captivate that high Spirit, whose ambition could not be limited by any less subject than herself. After the spending of some time in seeking out a place suitable to the humour wherewith she was possessed, she chose in the thickest of the Forest, the brink of a Silver Brook, whose murmuring waters seemed both to speak and answer at once, and tune their pleasant Purling to the agreeable noise, which the Leaves of the Neighbouring Trees did make, when frizzled by the Zephyr's welcome Wings. There, under the protection of the shady Boughs (which were so interlaced, that the Sun could not peep through, but rather Night in Daytime seemed there to keep her Residence) being laid along upon the soft Flowers, which lost their lustre at the presence of those that appeared in her Face, an humid coolness having sent a sweet vapour into her Eyes, ushered in gentle SLEEP, who could not all Night upon the Featherbed find admittance. Scarce had that drowsy Deity benumbed all her senses, but MORPHEUS (who takes delight in representing to the imagination the most extravagant Chimeras that can be fancied) made her conceit, that the Princess Respicia displeased at his backwardness to satisfy her desires, had made recourse to the power of enchantments, which of an Iphigenes made a Stag, and that the same Stag thredding the brushy Woods, and having mewed his Antlers, became a Hind, which being pursued by the Palatin's Hounds and Men, was reduced to such extremity, that if she had not retaken her former shape, she had been killed by these, and devoured by the others. These troublesome thoughts put her into strange perplexities, and passing her Hand twice or thrice over her Face, as it were, to strike off the Flies, she felt a stinging more sharp than those Creature's ordinary touch, which made her awake; and she had no sooner opened her Eyes, but the first species that form itself to her sight, was an horrible Serpent of an immense growth, which made towards her, sliding himself in divers folds upon the Grass, infecting it with the poison which distilled from his swollen Throat. This spectacle made the valorous Serife find her Feet; but in regard she had long since forgot the Trade of running away, gracefully brandishing her Shepheardesse's hook, she marched courageously towards that furious Snake, which casting fire out of his Eyes, and darting mortal poison from his pointed tongue, disposed himself to give her a strange exercise. But she, who feared neither Wolf nor Bear, and who not long before had laid a wild Sow grovelling upon the Earth, (not inferior in bigness or strength to the Erimanthian Boar) with three blows, addressed with an incredible dexterity, put this dangerous Serpent in a condition of defending rather than assaulting, and with two more of flying rather than defending himself, being bruised in several places of the Body; But, knowing that if those Creatures are not hurt in the Head, all other blows are but of small effect, seeing that he trailed but lazily his weakened Train, and that he hardly could find out his retreat, she hit him so full upon the Pate, that presently he remained without Motion. Then, she bethought herself that this might be the Event of her Dream, although the species were as different, as Riddles are from the sense which is commonly applied to them: But not being able to imagine, who had so opportunely wakened her, she believed it might happily have been her good Angel (to whose guard (as we read) we are committed) they having charge to preserve us in all our ways, to uphold us lest we should stumble, and to give us the courage to trample upon Serpents, and the most fell Animals of the Earth. With this thought lifting up her Eyes to the azury roof of Heaven, she addressed this  

ELEVATION OF SPIRIT To the Allseeing DEITY.  

SPIRIT Divine, whose only Influence  
Fills th' Earth with Flowers, and the Sky with Light;  
Eternal Sun, who by thy Indulgence  
Makest blessed Souls taste fullness of delight:  
Shower down on me thy Clemency, thy Grace  
Infuse into my Spirit, and assure  
With Hope my Senses, that in this low Place  
My Confidence in thee may rest secure.  
Grant that I may withstand the Temptor's strength;  
Afflictions with Constancy support;  
Give Fervency unto my Heart, at length  
That I may find safe Harbour in thy Port.  
Banish from me all evil thoughts, from Wrong  
Preserve my Honour, and from envy's stings;  
And as the Birds shelter their tender young,  
Hid me within the shadow of thy Wings.     

The Seventh Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Iphigenes in Almeria's Habit meeting with his own Servants at their return to Plocens, by reason of that Disguise runs the hazard of being ravished by them. His Speech to them. Their astonishment and shame when they knew him to be their Master. Liante or Calliante having put himself in a Gentleman's Habit, comes to inquire after Almirea, who, he said, was his sister. The feigned Relations of his sister's going away with Iphis. Calliante endeer's the Country- swains to help him to find out his imaginary Sister and her Lover. Iphigenes or Serife having changed her Shepherdesse's weeds into a lady's attire, fein's herself to be Modestina, to deceive Pomeran and her other Companions. Boleslaus' cunning dissimulation to strengthen the other's error. The feigned Modestina's Complaints against the inconstancy of Iphigenes. Pomeran's and his Companion's zealous Speeches, and their endeavours to comfort her. They discover the fallacy through Arcade's indiscretion.  
Whilst she was in these Divine Meditations, a little Golden Feathered Bird seemed to warble and chant in her shrill Notes, Actions of grace to the Author of all Good, for giving that Virgin the power to kill the Serpent, according to the threat pronounced against that cursed Creature at the first Creation. This pretty Harmony made Serife cast her Eyes to the place, whence her Ears received the sound, and having a while observed that this little Bird fluttering from Branch to Branch did follow her, as if it sang the IO POEAN of her Victory, She was amazed at last to see it cast itself with fury upon the Body of the Serpent, pecking him as if it would have killed him again after Death. Which recalled to her memory a Relation she formerly had heard of a small Bird called Saura, which is held to be as great a Lover of Mankind as a Hater of Serpents, and whose natural custom is to peck the Faces of persons who sleep in Meadows or Marshy places, as well to kiss them as to make them waken to avoid the Ambushes and biting of Serpents, that lie skulking under the Grass. Hence she conjectured that those prickings which she had felt upon her Cheeks, sleeping, proceeded from the philanthropy of that little Creature, which had the care to preserve her from the deadly sting of that reptile Enemy, who would have conveyed Death with his Poison into her Heart. But all this had little congruity with the species which her Dream (though short and suddenly interrupted) had so lively engraven in her fancy. O Serife, justly you begin to act the Woman, wherein Women most play the Women, that is, by the observation of Dreams.  
As the light of the Sun dimmeth that of a Torch or Candle, so a great noise drowneth one which is less loud; That of a Chase with a full Cry and vehement impetuosity, banished from the Ears of our contemplative Shepherdess, that Bird's chirping, the murmur of the gliding Water, and the whistling of the Wind amongst the Trees. These were her own Huntsmen, who returning to Plocens by the address of their Bloodhound had roused an Hind, and loosed the whole Kennel after her. The Forest returned Echoes from every part, and this being an exercise wherein Serife took a singular delight, her former thoughts ravished with this present Object, were immediately turned towards that part, whence she heard that confused noise (which is more agreeable to those that love that sport, than the most melodious harmony, that Music can produce in its best regulated Concerts;) and taking a cross path, in short time she arrived at the Game. Heavens! how was she surprised with astonishment, when she saw her own Hounds (whom she knew severally by Name) and her own Servants, who were far enough from thinking her to be their Master. She remained some while in suspense whether she had best appear, or retire into the thickest of the Wood to avoid their sight, lest they coming to know her, might found some Opinions which might be prejudicial to her afterwards. But whether the excessive Pleasure she took in this Cynthian Recreation, hindered her from retreating; or whether she thought, at the worst, if she were discovered, that she should easily turn into a laughter, the changing of her Habit, she resolved to show herself, and the first Man she met she asked him what was their Game; That accent, that manner of speaking, that grave and Majestic port, that Angelical Face, and that delicate complexion, touched the Hounts-man so, that he stood stock-still as if he had been at a loss; and considering with Attention this Shepherdess, he thought he had met Diana, or one of her Nymphs.  
In this confusion, hardly knowing what to answer, he said, Excellent Nymph, we are in chase of an Hind, which we have singled out from the Herd; but if this Company hath made us take the Change, your presence is more capable of staying us: For, there's not one of my Companions, but would become your servant as well as I, if he had been so happy as to meet you. Sir, replied Serife, I am not so lately come into these Woods, but that I know the custom you Hunters have to abuse all the Shepherdesses you find, and then at your return make your City-Dames (whose slaves you are) merry at their simplicity; But we are not yet so dull, but that we can discern your craft, and know that under the Honey which is upon your Lips, you hid the Gall which you carry in your Hearts.  
This answer retorted no less gracefully than wittily, seized Armelin (so was the Huntsman called) with a new astonishment; Insomuch that falling further into discourse with this agreeable Nymph, he endeavoured by a multitude of deep protestations to assure her, that she had conquered him in a moment, and that he never had felt himself taken with so violent a Passion, nor farther remote from dissimulation for any Creature in the World. But as he made show of alighting from his Horse to talk with her more at ease, and by his persuasions to render her more susceptible of his torment: Know, said Serife, that although we come short of your City-Dames in Beauty, we do exceed them in Honesty, and that our Rustic Simplicity rendereth us less capable of being surprised by your deceitful and affected flatteries; Go, Sir, keep on your way, I'll follow your Game with my Eyes, and although your little courtesy refuseth to inform me what it is, I am not so ignorant in this exercise, but that I may teach you; and if I can come time enough to the fall of your Deer, (so that you vouchsafe to lend me your Sword) you shall find that I know how to use it aswell as my Hook or Distaff. This said, she presently retired into the thickest of the Wood, leaving poor Armelin perplexed with strange imaginations; One while, he thought it was an Angel that vanished as soon as it appeared; For, that Voice, that Garb, those Eyes, and that manner of Speech, seemed to have he knew not what of Celestial. At last, believing it was an illusion which had charmed his Senses, shaking off his amazement, he set Spurs and hasted after his Companions. Having overtook them, he prayed them to give him audience a little while, and having told them in few words, how he had happened upon the most beautiful, not only Shepherdess, but Creature that his Eyes ever had beheld, who wand'ring all alone might perchance be brought to yield, not to their Discretion, but to the Indiscretion of the unreasonable Passion, which by his Description he kind led in their Souls; They like Harebrained Hunters and dissolute Courtiers, who at the first motion do burn with a base desire of evil-doing, pressed him immediately to conduct them towards that clear spring, there to quench the thirst of their abominable Lusts. Their Request was no sooner made, but granted: So true it is that vice is always leading to a Precipice, and that illicite Passions may not improperly be compared to Bitch's, which bring forth their young ones blind, all first motions being without consideration.  
They rushing through the Wood thitherwards, where Armelin met Serife, had not gone far before they espied her advancing a great pace in a path, which she thought would lead her to the Game. They presently road up to her, and Arcade and Philaster seeing that Armelin's words were very much inferior to the merit and Graces of that Shepherdess, they thought this Prize, better worth than the Hind which they were pursuing. Mean time the Hounds, which were no more encouraged nor cried after, left their chase to follow their Masters, insomuch that they were environed with the whole Pack when they accosted Serife, who seeing herself bayed and barked at by those Creatures, began to fear that her dream might indeed then turn to truth; For, all the three Gallants being equally enamoured of her Beauty, quitted their Horses with a resolution to have, by fair means or by foul, that which could not enter into the thought of any but persons whose brutal Pleasure is the only Butt of their Passions. They began with Compliments, from thence they passed to insolent Language, and from insolent words to impudent Actions. Serife at first took much pleasure to see her own Domestics in that pleasant error, and by witty and ambiguous answers did seem to whet their Desires and quicken their Inventions. But at last when Impatience made them speak openly, and gave them the impudence to come to threats of Force, this extremity made her take off her Mask, and casting her hand upon the guard of Arcade's Sword, she drew it hastily, saying to them, with a tone and Countenance full of displeasure; How, Philaster, Arcade and Armelin, are you so doubly blinded, that you know not Iphigenes your Master? and admit it were not he that speaks to you under the Habit of a Shepherdess, ought not you to dread his Anger and his Justice, if it should come to his knowledge that you should have committed in the meanest subject of his Palatinate, an act so dishonourable as a Rape?  
When they heard their own Names from the Mouth of a Person, to whom, they thought, they had not been known, and that the word of Master piercing their Ears, made the Scales fall from their Eyes, to know the Palatine under an habit so unsuitable to his quality; if the Earth had opened under their Feet, or some mighty Tree falling had squeezed their Bodies under it, I believe they would have thought it an happiness to have perished at that instant, rather than have swallowed the Shame and Confusion that overwhelmed their Hearts and covered their Faces with the Livery of Gild. They remained for some time so , that they resembled Statues, rather than living persons. And when this amazement had given them leisure to breath, they did like People that are drowning, who catch not at that which may best help them out of danger, but that which comes first to their hands. A free accusation is always better than an impertinent defence. Therefore they did like the Crocodile, which weepeth and yet hath no tongue; tears were the discourse of their Repentance, and sighs and sobs the witnesses of their real Resentments, which begat in the Heart of that generous Amazon a greater desire to pardon than to punish them, though they would have endured the chastisement with as much constancy, as they had little confidence to demand forgiveness.  
This persecution was no sooner ended, but there began another, no less perilous. For, the Hounds being enraged for losing the sent and footing of their Prey, falling foul upon one another began a furious skirmish, wherein Serife, who loved them passionately (as the custom is of great persons who take delight in Hunting) engaging herself to separate them, being pressed with fury and accustomed to Blood, they turned their rage against her, and had it not been for the Sword which she had naked in her hand, they would have preyed upon her. She called them by their several names, that they might the better know her, but their Barking and Yelping quite drowned the sound of the Shepherdesse's voice; the more the Huntsmen beat them, the more eager they were to fasten on her. Thus Serife, for having seen with too much curiosity her Diana (Almeria or Calliante) bathing in that Silver stream, had like to have undergone the miserable Acteon's fate: And her Dream was accomplished in such manner, that whereas other Dreams are but the representations of precedent Events, in this, there seemed to be denoted some principal Traces of succeeding accidents. Wherefore Serife taking by the foretop this Occasion, which presented itself, of making use of her own Servants to effect her present design, commanded Philaster and Armelin to repair without delay to Plocens with their Hounds, and not to hunt any more in that Forest without her order, palliating the disguisement of her person, and her change of habit with the pretence of affairs, highly concerning the service of her King and Country: But the secrets of State which she then attended, were only those of her Passion; Her King was Calliante, in respect the Will is Queen of the Faculties of our Souls, and Love the King of the Will She kept Arcade to wait on her, having sent the others away one on Horseback, the other on Foot making use of Armelin's Horse for the purpose which you shall hear.  
Whilst they return to the City with the Seal of Silence upon their lips, (applied by Serife's command) being resolved to be more discreet and reserved for the future; let us see what was the issue of our newly-transvested Lover's design. Boleslaüs like a crafty Sinon, had already (according to Iphigenes intention) prepared the Spirits of Pomeran, Argal and Pisides to a belief, that the Palatine had enjoyed Almeria long before he left the Court, though with such circumspection, that the watchfullest observer could never discover his inclinations; so that living secretly like a Paris with that Helen, he seemed in the Eyes of the World to be another Hippolytus; And that retiring from the Court unto his Palatinate, He had persuaded her to wear a Shepherdesse's weeds, that he might visit her as a Nymph of those Woods: Unto which Motion she (who was a piece of Wax in his Hands) easily consented, burning with reciprocal ardours for the incomparable Iphis, though in appearance she seemed to be all Ice. This artificial Fiction (whereof they had already some conjectures, especially since their stealing away in that manner) so balanced those Gentleman's imaginations, that it presently passed with them for a certainty, and thereupon by a complacency (so ordinary amongst Courtiers) they determined to favour those amorous stealths, like him who is reported to have slept at a Festival meeting purposely to give another the opportunity to Court a Lady.  
Upon this surmise Boleslaüs made them resolve to expect the lost Couple's return, which was with a very handsome heat. For, Almeria, who was become Calliante, having changed in some town thereabouts his Contrie-slops for a Gentleman's apparel, and furnished himself with a Horse, came upon the Spur to Celian's house, and making a show of much earnestness and indignation, inquired of the good Man for a Sister of his, called Almirea, who, he said, had been seduced by a Young man, named Iphites, threatening to make both of them feel the Bloody effects of his just displeasure, and revenge by their deaths the dishonour which through his Sister's Folly redounded to their Family. Celian surprised with this discourse, and judging by the perfect resemblance of this Gentleman's face to Almeria's, that indeed he might be her Brother, durst not at first declare what he knew of her; but making use of her absence, I know not (answered he) where she is whom you demand, neither can I give you any account of her. Hereupon came forth the disguised Courtiers, the real Rustics and Celian's Daughters, who all together environed the Stranger, and considering him with attention, they concluded presently that he was Almeria's Brother. Calliante vapouring and chafing thundered out a thousand Rodomontades, saying, That he must and would have them restore her, whom he charged them with concealing in that House; alleging that in the neighbouring Hamlets he had learned such certain Intelligence thereof, that he could not be otherwise persuaded. Then, falling to the relation of some particulars, and telling them that his Sister called herself Almeria in stead of Almirea, and that Iphites had given himself the name of Iphis, he put all the company into a strange plunge, and their answers were as different as their censures.  
The three Sisters, being as envious as incapable of keeping a Secret, declared without much entreaty what they knew of her; which was in part confirmed by the Swains: But Iphis' friends thinking to oblige the Palatine, denied all that the others affirmed, being induced thereunto by Boleslaüs, who was ready to die with delight to see this pleasant contradiction. Calliante feigning not to know Boleslaüs, applied himself to those who told him news of the Fugitives, and, as if he had had a Commission to be a self-murtherer, he drew his Rapier, after several Exclamations, seeming to desire nothing more vehemently in the world, than to sheathe that blade in the bowels of the lost Almeria. This confirmed the Rustics in their suspicions of Almeria's honesty, and made them pass for a Cause adjudged the passions and privacies which they had observed betwixt her and Iphis. In sum, having said all they knew and thought of her, the conclusion was, that Calliante found nothing but the nest, the Birds had taken their Flight, and perchance upon inkling of his arrival. But Pomeran being curious to dive somewhat deeper into the knowledge of this affection, prayed the Gentleman to inform him how it came to pass, that his Sister left her friends in that manner, where the place of her Birth was, and what the name of their Family. Calliante, who desired nothing so much as this demand, to have a Subject whereon to establish his Deceit in the minds of those Gentlemen also, desired to be excused, saying, That the recital of that Story would but tear up his wound again, and aggravate his despair by the manifestation of his dishonour. This refusal sharpened the desires of the hearers, who joined all together in a supplication to him, to satisfy their curiosity therein, promising to assist him in the search of that abused Damsel; and they pressed him so far, that, as yielding to their entreaty, not without much unwillingness, He thus began.  
Gentlemen, In the Plain of Cracovia, not far from a place where the River Nidas loseth its name in the Vistula, standeth a very agreeable City named Corcin, wherein was the Mansion-house of my deceased Father; there exchanging Earth for Heaven, he left my Mother a Widow, with a charge of two Male Children, and as many Females. I was born a Twin with a Sister, who hath oftentimes been taken for me, and I for her; when the tenderness of our Age rendered us incapable of discerning our Sexes, without which our Nurses (as I have been told) were oftentimes like to have exchanged us, being unable to distinguish us by our Faces. If you have seen the unfortunate Almirea here, I believe you will judge by my Gate, my Pitch, my Voice, and my Countenance, that I say nothing that can be contradicted by your experiences; and if the habit which I wear did not make appear what I am, you would take me for a disguised Damsel, or a Man transvested. And I remember, whilst the innocence of our Age permitted us those sports which are agreeable to Children, that we did oftentimes take pleasure in changing our , to make us be taken one for the other, and so deceive in merriment all those that conversed with us. Insomuch that in our neighbourhood, it was commonly said, that either Calliante was Almirea, or Almirea Calliante.  
Here the rude Manile (according to the custom of Country-lobs, which is to interrupt them that speak, without any respect or consideration) said, In good sooth, Gentleman, You did well to avise us of that, for if you had not, there's none of all this Company but would have ta'en you for the same Almeria, that hath put so many Doubts, Jealousies, Passions and Proclamations in our Heads. It may be she bewitched him that follow's her, and who, you think, hath ravished her; for in the few days she was here, she bred (I can tell you) strange ravages, or rages (what you will call 'em) in our Spirits. I marvel why you will take such pains to seek after a Creature, whose loss is as advantageous, as the possession damageable. The rest of his Gang nodding their Heads approved Manile's reason, and not one of them but said in his Heart, that it was a fair riddance of her, and that the Gentleman was like those that are jealous, who are very eager to find out what were far better let alone.  
After this interruption, Calliante continued his relation in this manner. Now, Gentlemen, that you may know me for other than that idle Runaway (the reproach of our Blood and the shame of our Extraction) you must understand, that being in the Country with my Mother in a Castle of her's not far from the place of the King's residence in Summer time, and near a Forest where their Majesty's use sometimes to recreate themselves with the pleasure of Hunting, It happened one day (for our sorrow) that one of the greatest men of this Kingdom, being strayed in the Forest and overtaken by Night, which robbed him of the knowledge of the way to return to the City, where the Court was, retired himself to our House; where holding his arrival for a great Honour, we received him with the greatest respect and Courtesy we could imagine, little thinking that he should have been like that Machine of Wood which set on Fire that famous City, whose Story hath employed so many Pens. But this false Courtier having cast the Eyes of Concupiscence upon the unfortunate Almirea, and finding perchance some reciprocal answers in that language of looks, which cannot be understood but by those that love; That encouraged him to speak in general terms; thence to fall into Courtship and expressions of Affection, and so by little and little into private Familiarities, which seduced the simple Girl into her perdition, being overcome with the glory of his Greatness, and egged on with that vanity, which is so natural to that Sex, to see themselves Sued to, and Adored like Goddesses, which openeth the doors of their Hearts to that Passion, whereof if but one sparkle taketh in such weak Subjects, it presently flames like Fire in dry straw or Flax, and cannot be quenched neither by Tears nor Blood. His visits following (& somewhat too frequently iterated) were the Match by whose Smoke we easily discovered the Fire; But to oppose great persons and Favourites, or, like the Giants in the Fable, if by heaping Hills on Hills you offer to wage War against those Gods of the Earth, so firmly seated on the top of Fortune's wheel, they will but laugh at your contradictions, as Hercules did at the ridiculous endeavours of the Pigmies. Although we visibly saw that the design of this Polyphemus was to devour the Honour of our Family in abusing my Sister, yet it seemed that our low spiritedness stretched out the neck to this blow, and to accept this Yoke; thus Servile is the condition of those who suffer their Honour to perish to preserve or advance their Fortunes, as if a Fortune were estimable without being Honourable. It is no ordinary displeasure to me to reveal this shame, which I should rather study to conceal, every one naturally abhorring Infamy; but what? this is a thing so publicly known already, that if you should not learn it from my Mouth, the very stones. would declare it to you, the whole World being full of it, by reason of the abuse of my Sister, and the greatness of him that hath made the unworthy conquest of her. But if I had watched so carefully, as I might have done, the deportments of my Sister, or that my Mother had had her Eyes open upon the golden Apple of her Integrity, we never had felt those sad effects of sorrow which now afflict us: For, the pudicity of Virgins is like a Glass, which may be preserved a long time if well looked unto, but with the least knock is broken all in pieces. Yet since faults are personal, why should I derive the vices of the Guilty upon the Innocent? Especially in regard the Honour of that Sex cannot be guarded by any but themselves; for, the too strict observation of others in this case doth rather irritate than appease their Passions, and sharpen rather, or Set, than take off the edge of their desires. No Demonstrations, no Admonitions were wanting on our parts, to dissuade that inconsiderate Girl from the conversation of that, no less dangerous than desirable, Visitant; intimating to her that although his frequent coming were without any evil effect, yet she could not admit of his company without Suspicion and Scandal, in regard the Actions of great Men, especially Favourites, were Subject to a thousand interpretations, whereof the most Sinister were generally the most Certain. Sometimes, when my Mother asked her what fruit she could pretend of that, but too evident, Affection, unless it were the loss of time, and perchance of her Honour, (which is commonly attended by a public shame and an universal table-talk, which hurrieth into the precipice of despair those that expose themselves to such miseries:) She, belying her own Heart, would answer, that she believed Iph ' (excuse me, gentlemans, if his name who ought to be odious to me, being at my Tongue's end, had like to have broke through my Lips, since out of the abundance of the Heart the Mouth speaketh with precipitation) she answered, I say, that she thought that Nobleman had no more design upon her, than she had inclination for him; That she took all his discourse and compliments but as essays of his abundant wit, or tricks of Affectation which the Court-Gallants hold for commendable qualities; and that all his expressions proceeding only from the outside of his Lips, penetrated no farther than the Superficies of her Ears, preserving her heart clear from the contagion of that venomous Passion, which most persons do condemn, but few eschew. But not to weary you with too tedious a relation, notwithstanding his Scorpion-like subtlety to hid the Poison of his Intentions, & her simplicity, too ingenious for her destruction, the End, which useth to Crown good Actions with Glory, discovered to us the ignominy of their evil practices, as you shall hear. When this great Favourite, being fallen into some disgrace at Court, was in a manner exiled to his own Palatinate; at this departure, their two Hearts, whose Bodies had perchance contracted another alliance than that of words, could not support their dis-union: Insomuch that by the King's command he being enforced to leave the agreeable Climate of the Court, it was no difficult matter to persuade the imprudent Almeria to transvest herself and follow him, judging that in that habit every one would take her for me. She presently condescended to this proposition, which, as it was the Life of her desire, proved the Death of her reputation. So, taking a Suit of mine of Sea-green, laid with Silver-lace, and having handsomely put up her Hair, under a Grey Hat, covered with a White Plume, she Mounted one of my best Horses; and in the Dusk of the Evening repaired to the place where her Paramour had assigned her: since which time I could never learn any certainty what was become of her, until Fame (the inseparable shadow of great Persons Bodies,) informed us that this Nobleman being come into his Government, was no where less than in the City of his Residence, but consumed all his time in Hunting amongst these Woods, where he was become a Prey to a Shepherdess of such beauty, that bred Envy in all those Ladies of the Court, whose Affections he had ravished formerly. Hereupon a thousand imaginations arose in my troubled Mind, sometimes, that he had left my Sister enclosed in some Castle as a Trophy to his Vanity, contemning her with as much Cruelty after abusing her, as he had seduced her with Malignity; Sometimes, my Fancy seemed to persuade me, that she, who denying her Sex, had had the Courage to Disguise herself in Man's  to follow him, might well renounce that condition, and take upon her the habit of a Shepherdess, thereby to enjoy his conversation with less Suspicion and more Liberty. At length, to satisfy my own Curiosity, and my Mother's desires, resolving to search out my criminals, Fortune conducted me into these parts, where I am encouraged with some hope of finding what I seek: And now Gentlemen, I must conjure your Courtesy, by all that I read of Humane in your Faces, and do believe to be in your Hearts, to Favour me in this so just a Cause, which I have so ingenuously revealed unto you, to the end this Freeness of mine, joined to the Generosity which is so natural to all Persons of Honour, may oblige you to afford me your assistance. For, not to conceal the least point of Truth from you, I am resolved in this business, which concerneth not only mine, but the Honour of my Family, to play Double or Quit, or to stake all I have, and (like the Bee which puts her life in her revenge, leaving her Sting in the Wound she makes,) cease to live after the loss of my Honour; for, to enjoy Life without Honour, I'esteem a condition farworse than a thousand Deaths. Therefore if I find assuredly that my Sister hath passed beyond the bounds of her Duty, and preferred her Pleasure before her Reputation, my resolution is by plunging this Poniard into her Bosom to tear that polluted Soul out of her unchaste Body; if otherwise, I will press the conclusion of her Marriage as much as I can, and decency will permit. For, if Love equalizeth Lovers, Honour doth render the Condition of Gentlemen equal to the greatest Nobles; and my Extraction is not so obscure, but that I can reckon divers Palatines of my Ancestors, in whose Dignities, though I have not had the fortune to succeed, I cease not however to inherit a part of their Courage; Besides, I want neither Friends nor Kindred, who espousing my Interests, will join their Arms with mine in this just quarrel: And; since he is Master of another's Life, who despiseth his own, there is no sort of hazard, whereinto I shall stick to precipitate myself to get satisfaction from that Ravisher of Almirea, how great soe'er he be, being persuaded by this Maxim, That he dyeth gloriously, who perisheth with his adversary in the resentment of an injury. Nevertheless not to run headlong, or like one that's blind, I will first be satisfied of the truth, and then I shall see how to settle my Resolution.  
Calliante filled these and divers other particulars on the thread of his Narration with such Art, pronounced them with an Air and Accent so full of grace, and animated his Speech with Actions (though feigned) which seemed so real, that Boleslaüs, who knew all the mystery, could not sufficiently admire his industry, that could so dexterously put a Mask upon his Tongue, which at the same instant deceived the Eyes, Ears, and Thoughts of all that were present, who though appearing (as you know) to be all of one condition by their Habits, were of two sorts extremely different, yet equally deluded by the subtlety of Calliante.  
The Answers which he received from these Auditors were very different, or rather contrary; For, the Peasants (through a vice which is ordinary to them) being extremely jealous of Iphis, thought they had met with a fair opportunity to satisfy their malicious humour and destroy him, by declaring to the stranger that Almirea (who was in a Shepherdesse's habit, and called herself Almeria) was not only in love with Iphis, but had lost herself in his embraces, which (they said) was manifest enough by their running away together. This Deposition was strengthened by the testimony of the Shepherdesses, who hating Almeria no less than they loved Iphis, endeavoured all they could, not to wound, but rend in pieces the Reputation of her, who ravished them, whilst they thought her of a Sex contrary to her habit. But the disguised Gentleman's Answer was quite otherwise; For, Pomeran speaking for them all, and showing himself full of zeal for the preservation of Iphis, having boldly denied all that the malice of those base Souls had calumniously alleged, assured Calliante, That his Sister was so curious of preserving her integrity, that her Suitor had nothing so ordinary in his Mouth as the Complaints of her Severity (which Lovers are accustomed to qualify with the titles of Cruelty and Rigour) which the Rustics could not gainsay without doing an irreparable injury to the truth; therefore he exhorted him not to give credit to their Envy, but rather to believe the Report of Gentlemen, as they were, (though covered with habits disproportioned to their Conditions) than to the viperous Tongues of those Clowns, who carried the venom of Asps upon their Lips, and who spoke only by conjecture; But if He would not conform his Passion to the Rule of their Reasons, they had Reason, and knew how to rule his Passion, opposing with Force the Violence which he threatened in his Discourse; He, whom he was to encounter, (besides his quality and personal valour, which had rendered him victorious over so many redoubtable Enemies) not being so unprovided of Servants, nor fallen so in disgrace with Fortune, but that he could yet command a great number of gallant Men, who would take glory in hazarding their Lives in his Defence.  
Pomeran had continued to urge this Point, and doubtless had engaged Calliante in a single combat (wherein he would have wanted no seconds;) But that the cunning Boleslaüs traversing this Discourse interrupted him, telling him in his Ear, that Iphis would be very much displeased, if he should pick a quarrel with Calliante, whom he endeavoured by all means possible to oblige, thereby to render his Sister more tractable; That all things being fairly carried, and the honour of Almeria no ways interessed, there was nothing so easy as to terminate that difference in an amiable manner, without fight upon such punctilios of words, Menaces being but vain flashes, or like blasts of Wind which leave no trace behind them: that it would be much better to follow this way of gentleness, than to repulse just Resentments with impertinent Bravadoes: that from this clashing, as from the collision of flints, nothing could proceed but sparks, which would produce veryd angerous flames: Besides; to his knowledge, Iphis would not be well contented, that the Peasants should penetrate so far into his secrets, as to know his Affection and Quality, or the Condition of Almeria: that Calliante had already spoken but too much, unless he should have quite discovered the Mine, which would spoil all the sport, wherein they saw the Palatine did take an innocent recreation, which diverted him from melancholy for his disgrace and absence from the Court. Pomeran relished these reasons, which being communicated to Pisides and Argal, they became like Men without the faculty of Hearing and Speaking; Boleslaüs assuring them thát in so doing they would oblige and render most agreeable Service to Iphis, of whose pleasure, he told them, he had certain knowledge, as also of the place of his retreat, which was not very far from thence.  
Mean time, Calliante having thus contrived his Design, the better to bring it to effect, addressed his Complaints to the Countrymen, who promised him Miracles, induced as well by their own base Dispositions, as with the hope of profit, which the Gentleman made glitter in large promises to them. Already they engaged themselves to put into his Hands those whom he was seeking, wherein they discovered no less temerity than baseness, obliging themselves to effectuate that which was neither within their Knowledge, nor Power. Calliante being transported with joy to see them so perfectly deceived, redoubled his Promises, and encouraged them to assist him with Propositions of considerable recompenses. Hereupon they went to offer Sacrifices to Ceres and Bacchus, I mean, to make good cheer, at Calliante's charge; For, it is the custom of those Rustics to seal all their Bargains with Dishes and Bottles, otherwise they hold no Agreement can be firm or prosperous. On the other side, Boleslaüs, who had the watchword, promised his Companions to bring them the next Day to the place where the Lovers were, which was so strong, that being therein they might laugh at the folly of those Clowns, and at the vanity of Calliante, who after the Fashion of great persons had made choice of the worst side, that is, of Flatterers.  
Scarce had the cool Aurora poured out those drops of dew, which look like liquid Pearls, or little Eyes, upon the Grasse's tops, when both the Crues went forth to seek what they should never find in the manner they did imagine, although they should have compassed the whole Earth and sea; Whilst the Countrymen conducted Calliante in his Knight-errantry, entertaining him with smoky promises, as he fed them with the Vapours of Hope, Boleslaüs knowing the Blank, was sure not to miss his aim: For, Serife having assigned him the Rendezvous in a certain by place in the Forest, after a long wand'ring, this politic Guide feigning to have mistaken his way (although he had on purpose brought them insensibly out of all beaten Paths) when they were all at a stand, not knowing whither to direct their course, the found of a plaintive voice saluted their Ears; Which struck them into a sudden amazement, and made them the more astonished, the less they imagined to find any reasonable Creatures in so wild a Place; the Desire of being put again into some way, added to the curiosity, which is so natural to humane Spirits, of knowing other's miseries, made them advance towards the place, whence the Air conveyed those sad Accents to their hearing: For, whether Boleslaüs had made any sign, or whether they had been descried a far off by any one that was set Sentinel to that purpose, just as they arrived, a deep-fetched sigh broke the way to these Expressions.  
And shall I ever hence-forwards esteem the fidelity of any Man? Oh! let the Heavens invent some pains more bitter than those which they make me suffer (if it be possible to imagine any more rigorous) if ever I give credit to their Oaths, or open my Ears to their deceitful Courtship! Oh Iphigenes, the most treacherous and ingreatefull amongst those that tread upon the Earth, is it thus that thou didst feed with vain Protestations, my too facile, credulity? But who would not have been surprised with thy Language, thy looks disguising thy words under so seeming a goodness, that I should have thought myself guilty of an irremissible crime, if I had conceived the least doubt of their Reality? Is it thus, perfidious Man, that thou didst hid thy Heart full of Gall under Expressions of Honey, and that to catch me, like an innocent Bird, with thy false Call, didst thou ensnare me with thy cheating Promises? A great glory indeed thou wilt acquire by abusing thus a miserable Maid, who reposed her belief upon the Reed or broken Staff of thy Fidelity. Heavens altar the motion of your Spheres, and thou Sun hence-forwards go take thy Restingplace in the Oriental plague, Rivers run back to your Sources, and Day cease to be light, since the Constancy of Iphigenes is become movable, notwithstanding he pronounced a thousand solemn Oaths, that the Effects of Nature should be enemies to their Causes, before his Soul should be rendered capable of change. He hath changed however, disloyal as he is, and without remembering the sacred plighting of his Faith, or considering the miseries which I have endured for his sake, hath abandoned me as a prey to Melancholy and Despair. Heavens where are your Thunderbolts, where your Plagues?  
A heavy groan having terminated these words, there was not one of the Hearers (excepting Boleslaüs, who was acquainted with the Plot) but thought it had been Almeria that charged Iphis with perfidiousness, seeing herself forsaken, like another Ariadne by Theseus, after the loss of her Honour. As they were upon the point of rushing in to show themselves, and consolate the Affliction of that Desolate Plaintif, For Heaven's sake Gentlemen, said Boleslaus, do not appear before this Creature, until I have discovered what she is: For, mee-think's I have heard this voice heretofore, and I am certain it is not Almeria's, being too much assured of Iphis Love to her, and that his Deportments being full of honour, He is no Man to commit so unworthy an Action. So, having persuaded them to stand still in a place where they could not be perceived, the old Fox slipped gently into the Thicket, as if he went to discover who that doleful Female was, who (as if she had been advertised of the approach of those that heard her) thus continued her Complaints.  
Deplorable Modesta, what Fruits hast thou of thy Fidelity and Patience, since thou hast sowed on a barren Sand, and since thy ardent Affections have not been able to oblige the most inconstant of all Humans, to keep what he had so often sworn to thee? Indeed thou hadst reason to believe that he would play thee such a trick, considering without caring to deliver thee out of the Prison, where the rigot of thy Father-in-Law had enclosed thy innocence, he slighted thy Disasters, and laughed at thy Tears and Captivity. Yet if he had forsaken me for that Princess, or those great Court-Ladies which were so passionately taken with him, it would be some consolation in my incomparable Misfortunes, to see myself supplanted by those that exceed me in Deserts, as far as I have surpassed in Affection to him all those of my Sex; But, to violate his Faith promised to me, for a Country-Hoiden, for a Herd-Wench, who is as inferior to me in Birth, Estate, Breeding and Beauty, as I am to those Stars which render so illustrious the Court of our Monarch, that is a thing which I cannot endure without an Heart-breaking anguish, more sensible and dolorous than a thousand Deaths. Therefore since I cannot survive an affront of such indignity, I am resolved to die; but it must be in the presence of him whose inconstancy doth murder me, that in expiring I may fasten to the collar of that ingrateful Wretch a thousand Furies, which may represent incessantly to his thoughts my Bloody Ghost, to the end that possessed with Despair for having reduced me to that extremity, he may exercise a vengeance upon himself more horrid than can enter into my imagination.  
Here sobs breaking off her Speech, our hearers conjectured, and said amongst themselves, that it was not Almeria; And in regard none of the other three had ever seen Modestina, they could hardly think that it was she, because they heard her call herself Modesta (which Name pleased her the more, because Iphigenes did commonly use it in his most Familiar caresses to her.) Whilst they were in this perplexity, returned the old Oedipus, who in stead of explaining this Enigma, rendered it more obscure. For, counterfeiting much trouble in his Mind, with a low and trembling voice he said to them; Gentlemen, let us be gone from hence, or we are all undone; for my part I think that this is an enchanted Forest, and that all the Adventures we meet with proceed from Magic Art, And that the Enviers of the Palatine's fortune keep him here by witchcraft, and us with him. For, how can any Man imagine without a manifest illusion, that Modestina, my Master's Wife, should be transported into this Forest (without the help of some that deal with the Devil) to come to utter her Complaints in this Desert corner, which hath no Inhabitants but ill-boding Screech-owls, and seemeth only fit for a Sabat or Assembly of Sorcerers? And what know I but that Despair (wherewith her complaints do speak her over whelmed) hath driven her to make recourse unto this horrible remedy, to release her Body out of Prison, and free her Mind from the rage of her Jealousy? Thereupon he told them, that it was, indeed, Modestina lying at the foot of a great Tree upon a Carpet of Moss, who made the Woods so resound with the Echoes of her lamentable sighs; that if she perceived him, he was a lost Man, because she would believe that he had seduced her Husband to those Levitieses, or at least fomented them by his Assistance, conjuring them to retire themselves speedily from that place; or (if their curiosity invited them to hear any further) to permit him to fly, that he might not appear before the face of his Mistress, transported with Anger and Grief.  
This amazement was so dexterously feigned, and this advise coloured with such probability, that it served as a Fascination to the three Gentleman's Eyes, and a Charm to their Ears, So really they believed this false Report. And whilst they were consulting whether they should succour that distressed Lady, or not discover themselves to her, Boleslaüs still urged them to retreat, but in such a manner, as rather increased their desire of assisting her. At length, Pomeran, who had always pleaded Modestina's cause without knowing her (when he endeavoured to divert Iphis from the pursuit of Almeria) judging besides the happiness he should have to be known to her, he should begin his acquaintance by the most signal service he could render her, remitting her into her Husband's Arms, made his Companions resolve to secure the Lady, (which Boleslaüs desired most, yet seemed to fear) assuring them (the passion which possessed Iphis for Almeria proceeding but from a light youthly humour, and rather from Fancy than Reason, or a Disease in the Mind than any sound judgement) that he would thank them in the end for that which perchance at first would seem displeasant to him, like those who revile the Surgeon which hurteth them in dressing their wounds, and afterwards return him thanks, with a good recompense, when the Cure is done.  
Upon this Resolution they all concluded to make Boleslaüs stay to be witness of their proceed, and that by his means they might the better be made known to the Lady. But he feigned to strive to get from them, the more earnest they were to hold him. This Contestation could not be without some bustling, neither was the bustling without some Voice and Murmur. At which a Man came rustling out of the Thicket, as it were to inform himself of the way, which he seemed to have lost. This was Arcade, whom Serife had retained having sent away Armelin and Philaster; he having his Lesson, took no notice of them, but as Peasants; and thus spoke to them: Friend's, what evil Spirit brought you hither to disturb the Silence, and redouble the Horror of this place with your quarrel some debates? Yet I am not sorry I have met with you, since your arrival may do an afflicted Lady, and me some service in setting us again into the way, which we have been long seeking without happening upon any body to direct us. He had no sooner uttered these words, but Pisides, knowing him by his Voice, and , answered; Arcade, what do you persist in the enchantment, which maketh you not know, (when your Eyes are open) those to whom you speak? Do not you remember, that you saw us not many Days since in these , when the Chase made you put a Stag into our Hands? At these words, Arcade, as if he had been much surprised, Replied, Oh my Lord Pisides. what good Angel directed you so opportunely into this solitude to the succour of our Palatine's Lady, whom a violent, though not unjust Jealousy doth enforce to traverse both City and Country! Upon further inquiry he told them (as he had been instructed by Serife, that Modestina, being arrived at Plocens, had commanded him to conduct her into that Forest, where she had learned, that the Palatine, her Husband, being taken with the Love of a Shepherdess, had relinquished the care of his Charge, and contemned the Grandeur of his Dignity and Birth.  
These Gentlemen being prepossessed with so many Charms, accosted the sorrowful Lady, who seeing them approach seemed to be much affrighted, yet settled her Countenance again, as soon as Arcade, stepping in before the rest, informed her, that those, whom she saw in Peasant's Habits, were Gentlemen of Quality of the Palatine's Retinue, whom they sought as well as she; He having eclipsed himself from their sights some Days since. They having never seen Modestina, doubted not but Serife was she; For (besides the Dress and Accoutrements of a Lady of note, wherewith she was sumptuously attired) she had so mortified, or rather died her Face with a certain yellowish Liquor, that it seemed Melancholy had given her the Jaundice; Besides, by the means of some device which she held in her Mouth, she feigned another voice so naturally, that they were deceived on all sides. After they had made their obeisance, and tendered all the services due to her Grandeur: The only service, said she, that I desire of you, is, that you would bring me into my Husband's presence, or do me the last of all Duties, put me into my Sepulchre; For, to be separated from him, and to die, is the same thing to me. Hereupon they swore to use their best endeavours (but to make good their Oaths they needed not go out of the place) conjuring her to rise, and permit them to set her upon her Horse, which was feeding close by with Arcades. As she moved herself, she espied Boleslaüs amongst them, on whom casting a stern look, And darest thou yet (said she) appear before me, thou disloyal servant to a faithless Master? After thou hast so misguided him, who was committed to thy Government, thou comest perchance with thy Companions disguised, like thyself, to plunge me into new Miseries, and cast me into another Prison. Ah! No, I will rather open my bosom with this blade (drawing a Dagger from under her Robe) than commit myself to the Mercy of unknown Persons, who may first attempt my Honour, and afterwards take my Life. Here Boleslaüs putting one Knee to Ground, answered, Madam, Let Heaven never pardon me, if I am culpable of any misdemeanour towards you, and when you know the condition of these Gentlemen (whereof there is not one that would not lose a thousand lives for the preservation of your Honour) you will be sorry for conceiving such a suspicion of them. I take the Sun, or rather him that give's it Light to witness, that it is no fault of mine, if Iphigenes hath not continued his Affections entire (as he ought) to you. But alas! I am no more his Governor, but by Name, he is my Master in effect, the truth (as to all great Persons) is become odious to him, he spurns at Remonstrances; instead of taking my advices in good part, he pays them with injuries; his answers are harsh and froward, I cannot read his humour, he is grown so extravagant (these Gentlemen know it as well as I) that I am not able to hold him; yet for my part, if I have not Power sufficient to stay him, I have Patience to let him run, but not Constancy enough not to bewail his condition. His Disgrace at Court is one step to his fall, and if he continue in his obstinacy, that Gossip which hath bewitched him (I think) will ruin him absolutely both in Body, Mind and Reputation.  
Ah! Boleslaus, replied the feigned Modestina, if by the contagion of that deceitful Spirit thou art not become impudent as well as he; if thy words are sincere, tell me, if I must lose all hope of regaining his Affections, to the end I may presently by Death set a period to all my Miscries. Madam, said Pomeran, that remedy were worse than the Disease; For, it is easier to resuscitate affection in an Heart, than recall a Soul into a Body when once it is departed; For Heaven's sake banish such desperate Thoughts, and cast away that murderous Weapon which so ill becomes your hand; And I swear to you by the Faith of a Man of Honour, that if I were not seconded by any of these Gentlemen (although their Friendship & Courtesy promiseth me otherwise of their Generosity) I will employ my Sword with those of my Friends, my Industry, my Diligence, and my own Life, to procure your repose & reduce Iphigenes to reason. These Gentlemen can tell what Disputes I have had with him upon this Account, and how often he hath gone displeasod out of my Company, because he could no more brook the Liberty which I took in speaking to him, than I the Libertinage of his Life; But that was nothing to what I now desire to say and do, being no less animated by the sight of your Afflictions, than the Romans were moved at the view of Cesar's bloody Shirt.  
There was not one of the Company, but engaged with Pomeran to lay their Lives down upon so just a quarrel, especially Boleslaüs, as if by that employment he desired to efface the suspicion, which she had conceived of him. Here Arcade, (who could not persuade himself that those Gentlemen, whom he had seen so frequently and so familiar with Iphigenes, could be so deceived) began to laugh upon Boleslaüs, saying to him in his Ear, That he could not sufficiently admire the dexterity of the Palatine and him, in representing their Personages. That whispering cast some jealousy into Pomeran's thoughts, which was increased by Arcades often smiling afterwards and winking upon Boleslaüs, whereby a person of mean understanding might have evidently perceived a secret intelligence.  
Another time Boleslaüs (fearing a Discovery) drawing Arcade aside to tell him in secret that under pain of incurring the Palatine's indignation, he should be more serious in his carriage, lest his lightness betrayed all; Argal, who was fallen into Pomeran's suspicion, said aloud; Senior Boleslaus, amongst friends nothing ought to be concealed, speak out, that we may know what you are plotting there with Arcade; For, if it be any thing that may countervene not only the Service, but the will of this Lady, we protest to oppose your designs with all our power according to our promise without exception; For, though we are her Husband's friends, we are friends no further than to the Altar; that is, as far as Virtue and Conscience do extend, beyond those bounds we know not what it is to love. If he renounce not his no less unjust than injurious Passion for that idle Almeria which hath metamorphosed him into a Shepherd, and quench in the legimate embraces of his Spouse the illicite flames where with the other hath possessed his Heart, and rob him of the use of Reason, what complacency soever we expressed heretofore to flatter his humour, we are determined now to leave his service. This he spoke with such seriousness (animating his Speech with a sharp and colerick tone) as there remained no doubt in Arcade's thoughts, but that they were really deceived, or that they dissembled purposely to deceive him; and making him the Fool of their Play, produce him for their laughing stock and the subject of their merriment.  
At length, notwithstanding all the signs Boleslaüs made him to contain himself, and the austere look which Modestina glanced to keep him in awe, he could not refrain from laughter, when he heard Boleslaüs return this excuse to Argal. That which I would have said to Arcade in private, was only to inquire of the particulars of this lady's escape out of Prison; For, Mieslas kept her so close in one of his Castles, out of which it seemed so impossible for her to get, that I think Jupiter himself could hardly have found an invention to penetrate it, although he should have resumed the same form, which facilitated his conquest of Acrisius his Daughter; or had she been a Flora, I know not how Zephyrus could have accosted her. The feigned Modestina to give colour to this invention, and to hinder those Gentlemen from discovering the whole Mystery by Arcade's impertinent laughing, replied.  
You cannot conceive how subtle a Woman's Wit is, especially when sharpened by Love, and refined by Jealousy; you only look upon the guards that did environ me, and do not consider that a Woman, who hath a mind to deceive, or free her person out of Captivity, maketh those, who are incharged to watch her, the Instruments of effecting her own Designs: you might rather wonder how the news of my Husband's licentiousness-should penetrate my Ears in that recluse Mansion; But without having recourse to the Devil or Magic Art, know, that suspicions are Lover's Messengers, and their inquiries are so frequent and so urgent, that hardly any thing that regardeth the Object beloved can escape their knowledge: and I must tell you, that my diligence hath been such, that Iphigenes hath not done any one thing since his first going out of Podolia, either at the Court, or in his Palatinate, but I know it as well as he; and were he now present, I would reproach him all his unworthinesses one after the other, and reveal his shame to his own Face; neither should he be able to contradict or oppose any excuse to the Verities which I should allege.  
If the Answer Boleslaüs returned Argal, put Arcade out of Countenance, this transported him beyond himself; and bursting into an excessive laughter, his Imprudence served in stead of the Oculist's Collyrium to make the films fall from the Eyes of those Gentlemen, who doubting already some pretty prank of Joviality, perceived at length their Error; insomuch that the sad and Tragical beginning of this Cheat ended with a Catastrophe so Comical, that the Deceived, as well as the Deceivers were marvellously delighted with that recreation.  
After this the feigned Modestina, to take entirely off that Mask (which rendered her not absolutely unknown, but much harder to be known) having dipped her Handkerchief in the Brook, and rubbed her Face therewith, wiped away that yellowish colour, which altered her Complexion. Which done, she seemed so beautiful, that had not the natural tone of her voice (which she used again, having taken out of her mouth that which she had put in to falsify it) assured them that it was Iphigenes in a Woman's habit, they would have been more difficulty drawn out of this second error than the former. Then, they fell to discourse freely, and the Palatine declared to them, wherefore he had taken a Woman's habit to deceive them, as Calliante had done in Man's, who was no other than Almeria disguised.  
This new Discovery bred a new altonishment, and every one of the Company thought himself over head and Ears in enchantments. And the deceived party regretted, that they had not continued longer in their agreeable error, that in the sincerity of their actions the Palatine might have read the fidelity of their friendship, and judged by its uprightness, that their Souls permitted them not to be Favourers of Vice: So Arcade was taunted on both sides, for having betrayed by his indiscretion, what had been contrived with so much subtlety. But as in Springtime, the Heavens being grown enamoured of the Earth, do heat her bosom with the rays of the Sun, you may hear the Birds chanting their Love-lays in several Notes; So, Serife perceived by their language, that the powerful glances of her Eyes had warmed the Hearts of those disguised Peasants: For, from extolling her Beauty beyond any thing Nature had yet produced, they fell to particularise her perfections, with such curiosity, that it was easy to judge that their Passion was the main Spring of their Eloquence. And as those who are overmastered by Wine, disclose their infirmities by a flux of incongruous words, whereby one may gather that their Brains are troubled with Fumes, which cloud and disturb the faculties of the Intellect; So, by the discourse of these three admirers, it evidently appeared, that that sweet Poison which is drunk by the Eyes, had distilled its malignity into their Breasts, and that their mouths pronounced but what proceeded from the abundance of their desires. Argal complained that Nature had not made Iphigenes a Woman; Pisides flattering his agreeable Error, said, That as the Hyena is reported to change her Sex with her hair, so perchance Iphis having metamorphosed himself into Serife, and leaving the habit of Male, was become a Female. Pensive Pomeran, who though he spoke not all he thought, could not choose but let slip some Expressions, which like sparks gave testimony of his inward fire; For, sometimes he confessed himself filled with vain illusions, and to avoid a prejudicial censure, in satisfying his Passion, he protested that he would remain to the last Breath a friend to Iphis, and Servant to the incomparable Serife.   

The Eighth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Arcade is sent back to Plocens by Serife. Pomeran and his Companions attend on Serife, whilst Boleslaus advanceth to prepare Celian and his Daughters to receive Her. Serife's feigned Relation of Herself to deceive the Shepherdesses. Their endeavours to appease Her Counterfeited Grief. Calliante with his Assistants returns from seeking Almirea. Their amazement at Serife's admirable Beauty. Calliante's and Serife's moanfull Contention to outvie each other in Misfortunes. Her swooning at his feigned Bravadoes against Iphis. Calliante's seeming Anger against Almeria and Iphis, is appeased by Serife's conjuring Speeches. The Amorous and ambiguous discourse betwixt Calliante and Serife to puzzle the hearer's Thoughts. Serife seeming at length to be overcome by his Courtship, makes show of requiting the inconstancy of Iphis, by Answering Calliante's feigned Flames.  
THe perplexity of Boleslaüs was no less than Serife's apprehension, lest what she had so long, and so seriously concealed should now be unadvisedly revealed, to the ruin of her Fortune, & perchance of her Honour. At length it was concluded that the Design should still continue to deceive the Countrypeople, to make themselves some Pastime with their Simplicity. To this effect lest Arcade by his indiscretion should give occasion of any suspicion likewise to the Rustics, Serife sent him back to Plocens, incharging him not to mention any thing of those Divertisements, which she would have buried in the silence and solitude of the Woods. That done, they repaired towards Celian's House, whither Boleslaüs advanced a little before the rest, to see if Calliante with his attendants were returned from their Inquest: But he found only the old Man accompanied with his Daughters, deploring the loss of his profit more than the absence of the two Lovers, who he imagined had lost themselves on purpose to find a more free possession of each other. Some questions being past, Boleslaüs told him, that he had other news for him, which was, That the Wife of Iphis, being transported with Jealousy, was come into those Woods to seek him, where she had been informed he spent his time in the Embraces of Almeria, and that his Companions, who had by chance met with her, had sent him before to know if he would be willing to receive her in his house, she being a Lady of quality, that had fufficiently where withal to recompense his services and Courtesy to her.  
That hope of Gain was the only Shaft he could have shot to hit the pretensions of that greedy Churl; His Ears and his Doors were presently opened at the sound of that Silver Bell. And whilst they were upon these terms, arrived the other three, leading the beautiful Serife as it were in Triumph, upon a handsome Nag, whose Furniture was correspondent to the Richness of her Apparel. That rare Beauty wherewith Nature had Favoured her, being increased by the Luster of those precious Garments, so dazzled the weak sights of Belida, Merinda and Remonda, that they did not only forget the Graces of Almeria, but lost the remembrance of the countenance of Iphis. So certain it is, that  do set off people in such sort, that they seem in a manner Metamorphosed. Celian looked no further than her Hands and Neck, whither his Eyes were invited by the sparkling of some rich Rings, and a Carcanet of precious Stones, which he already swallowed in his Fancy. Every one's attentions were divertised according to their different inclinations; the Courtiers admired the Beauty of Serife, the Shepherdesses the Magnificence, and their old Father the Richness.  
This feigned Siren being received (if not according to her merit, however in the best manner that Cottage could afford) renewed the deceit which she had so artificially begun in the Forest, and possessed those simple People (who devoured her words by Mouthfuls) with what belief she listed, telling them, That she was Legitimate Spouse to Iphis (and indeed they were but one and the same Flesh, their Conjunction being not only Union but Unity;) That she had sought that Perfidious and Ingrateful Man both by Land and Sea; That He had Traitorously abandoned her to Despair, forsaking her to follow an Idle Creature, who being little beholding to Nature for Beauty, had doubtless bewitched her Husband by some Magical Charms; And yet (said she) I love him (notwithstanding his Disloyalty) as dearly as myself, and if you please to measure his Malice by my Innocency, I am in some kind culpable of my own misfortune, for, I am the Cause that my Rival doth entirely possess Iphis. All this discourse, which had a double meaning, was throughly understood by none but Boleslaüs, who could not sufficiently admire the dexterity of his dear Foster-child, who the better to cover her Deceit, drawing a Chain of Sighs from the bottom of her Heart, and drowning her Cheeks with Tears, moved not only the Daughters, but Celian himself to Compassion, and bred Astonishment in the Courtiers to see her subtlety in representing so to the life, a Sorrow, which they thought was feigned. But those Sighs & Tears proceeded from, but too real, a Source of Passion, so that the Deceit held good on all sides. And, it being a curiosity as Blameless as Natural, to inquire into the Disasters of Afflicted persons, to remedy them if it be in our power, or at least to pity the sufferers if we cannot help them, the Shepherdess's who desired no less to learn some particulars concerning Iphis and Almeria, than to hear the lady's Story, beseeched her to give them the relation of her Afflictions, assuring her of their Fidelity; and promising, in exchange, to tell her what they knew concerning those two Persons, whom Passion had rendered extravagant. Then, Serife, after the manner of Musicians, having made herself be somewhat entreated, disposing them by that appetite, the more easily to believe her Inventions, thus began.  
Iphis and I were Married so young, that we could hardly know what 'twas to Love. I was Ward to his Father, who to draw my Estate into his Family, & of a Guardian become Master of all, made me Marry his Son. If there was any force on Iphis part, I know not, but in me (I am sure) there was no Constraint, for I do not remember that ever I saw him without having some inclination for him. From the Cradle almost we were brought up together: during our Childhood we loved like Children, and our Affections increasing with our years, I loved him afterwards as my brother, but I must confess after I was permitted to hope to enjoy him as a Husband, I began to cherish him with a Love more ardent and delicate. At length we were united by the bonds of Hymen, but alas! that was only in words, for the use of our bodies was forbidden by his Father, who in respect of his tenderness of Age and Complexion, deferred our contentments until riper years had given both of us more Vigour and Ability to consummate our Marriage. Yet to observe the form of like Ceremonies, we were both laid in one Bed, but with an old Governess, (that I had) betwixt us, who like a Salamander did extinguish all our ardour, imprinting in our Spirits so much respect and awe, that during the whole Night, the motions of Love had no access in our Bodies. After that, to take away all occasions of our accosting, and to deprive us of our ordinary conversation, He was sent to the Court, where his good parts rendering him the common desire of the most accomplished Ladies, He still made me believe by his Letters (which were my only consolation in his absence) that among so many Stars which glittered before his Eyes, none could attract his sight from his Diana, whose Eclipse overwhelmed him with as much Darkness, as he hoped to enjoy Light, when I should again appear in his presence. With a thousand such like fopperies did that deceiver amuse my Simplicity, whilst in the midst of his Triumph over so many hearts, enthralled by his merits, he became, I know not how, a Slave to a Fugitive, which leads him up and down Captive where she pleaseth. Upon certain advice whereof I have done what I could by Letters to reduce him into the trace of his Duty and Reason; But He sometimes denied flatly that report, sometimes he accused me of Jealousy, sometimes disguised his baseness in so many fashions, protesting incessantly against my Suspicion, and making such show of Innocence, that (easy fool as I was) I belied my own belief to conform myself to his persuasions; and to purge him of crime, I accused myself of too much credulity. Oh how easy a thing it is to circumvent a Soul whose affection disposeth it to take in good part all that proceeds from the Object beloved! But at last perceiving by his flight with this new Helen, whom he hath ravished with her own consent; that (like a silly Fish) I had swallowed the hook under the bait, and what I held but for a Fiction was too manifest a Passion, alsolutely destructive to my contentment: Love armed with Jealousy suggested such reproaches to my Tongue against his barbarous Perfidiousness, as you may better conjecture than I repeat; I exclaimed against Heaven and Earth, I accused the Innocence of the Stars, as if their influence had contributed somewhat to his inconstancy, and strewing my Chamber with whole handfuls of my hair, I bruised my breast with my own Fists, punishing myself for the faults which he had committed against me. His Father as cruel as he is faithless, kept me close Prisoner in a Castle, where this news, which afflicted me even to Death, could enter, but I had little hopes of getting out, to prevent by my Liberty this ruin of my Affections and Marriage. My condition was like a Man's who seethe his House burning before his face, and is not able to carry any Water to quench the Fire; Yet, besides that Necessity is ingenious, the Providence of Heaven (which watcheth over the afflicted) gave me the invention and means to free myself from that Captivity to seek my Husband, & endeavour to draw him out of that Mire of Deboistness, whereinto he is plunged: And being informed in a City not far from hence, that my Husband (who is but too well known amongst the chief of this Province) had retired himself into this Forest, where under pretence of Hunting he made Love to a Shepherdess (which is no other than that Almeria, disguised in a Country habit) without taking any other counsel than that of my Affection, I came at a venture hither, not knowing which way to direct my Course, to meet with him who hath stolen my Heart, and rob me of his Faith. Thus Courteous Shepherdesses, you have the sum of my sad adventures, and the Subject of my coming amongst you. Perchance you will judge this escape an act of rashness, and unbeseeming a person of my Sex and Quality; But when you consider that those actions (which in themselves do appear not only not discreet but very reprehensible,) are justified by the Cause that produceth them, (which is a conjugal Love,) and by the End whereunto they tend, (which is to reform an Husband from his dissolute courses, and reclaim him from the precipice of ruin to the terms of Reason, Obligation and Honesty) I believe that the water which cometh from so clear a Spring, cannot be troubled with the Mud of any Calumny; and that so Legitimate a Cause cannot produce Illegitimate Effects. Can any one be so void of Humane Reason, as to censure a chaste Woman for endeavouring to make her Husband relinquish his extravagancies, and return to the enjoyment of her lawful embraces, since that is to seek herself, not another; and to reunite what God hath joined, and which no Mortal power can separate? But, alas! why do I say rejoin that which ne'er was joined, unless in Spirit and the Will? Yet the Will of my inconstant Husband may not be said to have been united with mine; otherwise he would never have forsaken me for another, if it be true that that Friendship can never cease, which hath been once perfectly contracted. Whose condition was ever like to mine? I am a Virgin, and yet I may say I am a Wife, without having suffered any detriment in my integrity; and being Wife to a Man which shuns me, I remain a miserable Prey to sorrow. I am Married, and yet am a Widow, that is, I die all my life-time being deprived of my Husband by a ravishment more sensible than the stroke of Death. Not many days since I wandered disguised in Man's , despising for him, that despiseth me, the Glory of my Condition: and now I run myself out of breath after a wanderer, whom I am no more able to catch, than he that follows his Shadow, overtake it. Be favourable Judges of my misery, and if there is any Humanity remaining in your hearts, I am confident you will be so far from interpreting amiss my actions, that quite contrary you will not deny me your assistance in the necessity, you see, I am at this present.  
Here Serife cut off her Discourse with Sighs and Tears, which came so opportunely from her, that one would have said she reserved that Wind and Water in particular places of store, to let them out when she listed. The Gentlemen (who knew the Fallacy, admired the readiness of her wit, which could so dexterously mingle Fables with Truths, and speak things of such double sense, that nothing she said favoured of any improbability) were less moved than the Shepherdesses; who believing nothing more certain, than that which she had told them, felt powerful resentments of Compassion at her so handsomely feigned Sorrow. And as the blood in Humane bodies runneth to the part that is wounded, as it were to strengthen and cheer it up; so it being Natural to comfort them whose affliction toucheth us, either by lessening their grief with the lenitive of comfortable words, Recalling their senses from Despair to Reason, Making them hope for a change of their evil Fortune, Promising assistance to withdraw or abate the miseries which oppress them, or by some other ingredients whereof are composed the Cataplasms, that are applied to the wounds of the Heart: Those Geatlemen, who saw all these passages with a singular satisfaction, having (to bring on the rest) first made offer of their Services to the disconsolate Serife, for the conquering of her inconstant Husband, expected to see how the Shepherdesses would undo that knot which the Lady had knit and tangled with as much Art, as that which could not be loosed without the Edge of a Sword.  
Their pity presently engaged them in the like tender of assistance to her, and (Women being as capable of keeping a secret as the reeds that betrayed Midas Asses Ears) they declared to her all they knew of Almeria's deportments; how she came thither in Man's , which she left in Merinda's hands as a pledge for those which she procured her; How Iphis came after her in a Countrey-man's habit with those Gentlemen there present; How she had fed them with lies, sometimes saying she was a Maid, sometimes a Man, with so well-carried a dissimulation, that they knew not what to think of her; such Sweetness and Modesty she shown amongst Women, such courage and dexterity being in the company of Men; That sometimes she acknowledged she had committed a fault, and therefore had stolen from her Parents, fearing their displeasure, Sometimes again she would justify herself to be full of Honour, and as immaculate as a new born Babe: However (as Detraction easily slippeth into Reports) for their parts, they said, if she was honest, they believed it was in words only, not in effect; then, they construed in the worst sense the Passions which Iphis expressed for her, and the feigned rigours wherewith she rejected his pursuit: In sum, they all concluded that her running away with that Man convinced her sufficiently of the crime, which she had before disguised with such cunning.  
Hereupon Serife (to make herself sport by sounding the malice of those Rustic Souls) pressing them, as if she had been animated with a jealous curiosity, to discover freely to her, what suspicious, or unbeseeming actions they had observed betwixt those two Lovers; such tricks, replied Merinda seek Darkness more than the Light; witnesses are not required at such bargains; those that have a mind to do amiss, endeavour at least that Solitude and Silence may shelter their faults from Judgements and Murmurs. I perceive, said Serife, that you deal with me as Surgeons do with those who apprehend letting Blood, amusing their Eyes another way, whilst they open the Vein; or, as the Executioners sometimes with criminals, covering their Faces, that they may not see the instruments of their punishments; you veil my mischief, and thereby redouble my torment: For, it is some consolation to see on which side one falls.  
Hence Belida took occasion to speak thus, Madam, the Jealousy which possesseth you, and which for a time did likewise disquiet my Brain, is a Disease that maketh us seek what we would be grieved to find; it forgeth ofttimes Ideas of that which is not, maketh small trespasses seem great offences, and like a malign Ulcer, empoisoneth itself by the same remedies which are applied to cure it; any Wood will foment that Fire, but no Water can quench it. If you will be ruled by me, you shall content yourself with that little which we have told you of the much which we know; for your imagination, (ingenious to torment yourself) will extend but too far, (to your sorrow) the particulars we have already represented. I speak by experience of that Malady, which is worse than a quartane Ague, for, it proceeds from an odd conceited humour, which every thing doth aggravate, and nothing easeth; Heavens be praised I am now rid of it, and I hope I never shall be afflicted with the like pain. I am confident, Madam, as the Stars lose their Light in the presence of the Sun, that your Husband, having but compared your Beauty with that which he now so esteemeth in Almeria, will account all her Grace's ugliness, and the more deformed, because accompanied with the vilest and most infamous of vices, which is Adultery; and that balancing your Fidelity with the Lightness of her indiscretion, he will the sooner acknowledge his fault, the greater Obligation he hath to your merit. For, as we find by experience that the Sheep which have been drawn out of the Wolv's Throat, are the tenderest and daintiest meat; So his Love doubtless will be the sweeter and more firm towards you, the greater his Repentance is for having offended such a Goodness, and tempted such a Patience as yours. Live in this hope, Madam, and assure yourself, that if Iphis hath two Eyes, and seethe you, Almeria's gone; she will be the Object of his Disdain, and you of his Affection; Perchance the difficulty of possessing you, hath transported him to this no less unjust than inconsiderate Passion.  
Remonda (after the manner of Women, who would be sorry to hold their peace when others speak) interrupting Belida, would also pay her shot with the mite of her verdict, adding to her Opinion an expedient remedy to ease the Lady Serife's plain, to whom addressing her Speech; Madam, said she, It seems that Heaven conspiring your good, hath sent hither on purpose a Man that will release you of that trouble, by tearing Almeria out of your Husband's Arms, and putting him into yours; it is one Calliante, who says he is her Brother: he came hither yesterday to inquire after her, and is gone this Morning with my Brothers to see if they can find them out. I marry Sister, replied Merinda, there's a salve indeed for this lady's sore, to tell her of a Gentleman that is come with an intention to kill Iphis, or make him marry her whom he hath abused, which will be an absolute dissolving of his former Marriage, which is not consummated, by another whose consummation hath preceded the Wedding.  
At these words Serife seeming extremely disturbed, feigned to fall into a swound; and as there is no body so deaf as he that will not hear, so there is none so sick as those that sergeant themselves to be so: Serife dissembled her indisposition with such Art, that every one judged it to be real; some ran to fetch Vinegar and Water, whilst some pinched her, and others rubbed her Face; the Shepherdesses handled her after their fashion (that is) rudely, yet for all their doing she stirred not, so that they thought her past recovery. The Courtiers knew not whether they had best laugh or cry; and in effect she had continued longer in that pleasant ecstasy, if, when they came to unbrace her, she had not feared (by leaving to the view of those Argusses and Lynxes the precious treasures of her bosom) that without divination they would have passed from Conjecture to the certainty of the Truth. So she awaked out of that sweet Sleep, as full of Joy in her Heart to see her Deceit take so handsomely, as of Sorrow in her Countenance; For, all her Blood being retired inwards, she looked as pale as Death, and watering at the same time her Cheeks with Pearls, which she had prepared in her Eyes, with a trembling, and, as it were, a dying voice, she form these words. Who was that which by an endeavour pitifully cruel hath restored the Light to my Eyes, to make me contemplate in myself a Spectacle of nothing but Miseries? Oh Death! the only Consolation of those who are remedilessly afflicted, why dost thou seize on so many persons that eat thee in the midst of their Delights, and leavest me in this World, who invoke thee without cease, unless thy meaning be to make my Head a Butt for all Misfortunes? Then, the Design is to rob Iphis of his Life, or ravish him alive from me; from me who Live not but for him and in him, and who to save his Life would lose mine own, or rather many Lives, if I had them, to rescue him from Death. Oh Destiny! if thy Rigour be yet susceptible of any spark of Pity, close my Eyes with that Sleep, out of which one never wake's, before they see so tragical an Event. My dear Friends, pray give me leave to die, for it is time that by this last action I testify to my Faithless Husband, how much I cherish his Liberty, and that if I have not strength enough to follow and overtake him, I have constancy enough to let him please himself.  
This said, she would have drawn out of her sleeve, hanging after the Sarmatick fashion, the same Dagger wherewith she feigned to kill herself in the Forest, had not the disguised Gentlemen held her Arm; but there needed no great striving to hinder her from hurting herself, who had no such intent, and who would have wounded Iphis assoon as herself. Mean time this strengthened the Deceit: For, as there is no tincture so lively as that of blood, so there is no impression so powerful as that which is mingled with some tragical effect. The Shepherdesses were no less moved with the generosity of her courage, than mollified with compassion to see to what a point of Despair the unfaithfulness of Iphis had reduced the deplorable Serife: Their Eloquence being not able to form Consolations powerful enough to appease such vehement Sorrow, all they did was to chide Remonda for her indiscreet babbling.  
By this time the Lamp of the Day being drawn near his Occident, and beginning to give place unto the smaller Lights, which his absence kindleth in the Firmament, arrived Lupicin, Antalcas, Fleurial and Manile, accompanying Calliante, who came from the fruitless search of those whom they had before their Eyes without knowing them. At this arrival the Gentlemen renewed their attention to consider this new Comical Act, the best whereof was, that Calliante, who came with intention to deceive them, was himself deceived.  
By the complot betwixt him and Serife, at their parting in the Forest, he knew the fallacy wherewith she had prepossessed the spirits of all the Company; But his return being unexpected, Boleslaüs had not the leisure to inform him speedily enough of Arcade's folly, who by his laughing had betrayed all the grace of that subtle supposition. It was a double delight to see Calliante's Mine countermined; But there remained a great mistake in the Gentleman's Spirits, who took him for a Woman in Man's clothing, and that he only counterfeited a Manlike Countenance; on the contrary they believed Serife to be a Man, who was really of the Sex they thought she counterfeited.  
What worthy Pencil shall I borrow to delineate to the Life the new astonishment of Calliante at his approaching near Serife? For, having left her in his Country-weeds, and finding her in that glorious attire, which she had put on purposely to complete the conquest of his thoughts, he could hardly persuade his fancy to believe it was the same Iphis, whom he had left in the Forest. In a word, those rich Ornaments gave so much advantage to Serife's Beauty, that they did the Office of Wood in augmenting Calliante's Fire; which was such, that losing the knowledge of himself, and the remembrance of the Personage he was to represent, he remained a good while, his Eyes fixed on her Face without motion, as if he had been ravished in a profound Ecstasy; and resigning the Function of his Tongue to his Eyes, he was angry with Nature, that she had given him but two to contemplate so many marvels. On the other side the Countrymen, his attendants, who were not accustomed to see such eminent Beauties every Day, much less to be visited by them in their Cottages, were not without admiration. Whilst they were in this maze, not knowing where to begin their Compliments, the Women who were as hasty to cast the secret out of their Mouths, as a Spider off their Bosoms, put them out of pain: For, Belida to her Husband, and Merinda and Remonda to the rest, had quickly related all that had passed since their going abroad, and what the doleful Serife had imparted to them of Her Disasters.  
This bred some compassion in their Hearts, and made them imagine that it was not without some particular Providence of Heaven, that so many strange Accidents in so short time should be presented to their sight. In mean time Boleslaüs accosting Calliante, after some common Discourse, intelligible enough, told him softly Arcade's fault, that he might understand that the Gentlemen knew him. How? said he, starting, for Liante? No, replied Boleslaus, but for Almeria, their discovery hath gone no further. If they know no more, answered Calliante, bid my Brother keep his Countenance, and the scene not ending yet, the Country-fellowes shall not be the only deceived.  
To describe the greeting of these two Lovers transvested in Opinion, but in Effect, clothed according to their Sexes, were a difficult task. For, Serife being deeply in Love with Calliante, never had so fair an opportunity of representing her Passions to him with as much reality, as he thought them full of dissimulation: And Calliante feeling his Heart so straight bound by the Charms of Serife's graces, knew not what to think, nor with what expressions to discover his Resentments. At length making use of the privilege of the Deceit which occasion then offered him. He broke silence, saying: That, if it were a Consolation to those in misery to find their equals in infelicity, he might in some wise deem himself happy among his Disasters to have met with her: yet if persons that have been bitten by mad Dogs, do feel their rage re-doubled by the approach of such as are affected with the same Disease, he feared to exasperate his by Communication, or (Maladies being contagious) to multiply his Afflictions by making known to her the just complaints which he had to make against Iphis.  
Sir, replied Serife, I believe our disasters are arrived to such an height, that there can be nothing added to their extremity; and if every thing which hath attained to its just plenitude is accustomed to diminish according to the course of Nature, methink's in our Despair this glimpse of Hope is yet remaining, that henceforwards we ought to look for the Decreasing of our Miseries, since they cannot increase without augmenting to infinity. Your seeking and mine tend both to the same end, though by different ways; we aim at the same Blank from several Stations. You lament the loss of your Honour, wounded by the lightness of your Sister, and I bemoan the Levity of my Husband, who by a cruel Change doth unworthily abuse my Loyalty. I am confident if without Passion you could compare one affliction with the other, you would be constrained to judge in my favour (ah wretched favour!) and acknowledge that I am the most miserable: But, it is hard, especially in matters of Misfortune, for a Man to be an equitable Judge in his own cause, in regard a Straw in our own Eyes, or a scratch upon our Bodies, is more painful to us than a Beam in the sight, or a great wound in the Body of another.  
Madam, answered Calliante, if all did run in the Race of Infelicity, every one would think he were first at the End; For, there is no one living but esteems his own Misfortunes the greatest in the World, and thence proceeds so many lamentable Complaints, wherewith the distressed fill the Air. But this is a miserable contestation, wherein it is more advantageous to be the Conquered than Conqueror; Nevertheless since in all things we strive to overcome by an innate desire which we cannot leave, but with our Lives; give me leave to tell you, that if those who lose their means (as it passeth in some places for a Proverb) do lose their Senses, with what fury ought they to be transported, who are robbed of their Honour, which all well-tempered Minds will always prefer not only before the favours of Fortune, but their own Lives? This makes me run in this enraged manner through the World, seeking my Sister, either to dip this Weapon in her Blood, if she hath forgotten herself so far, as to dishonour our Family by an irreparable fault, or to venture my own life with her Ravisher, who (I am informed) is your Husband.  
At these words, pronounced with an angry Tone and an haughty Countenance, Serife began to Stagger; and (as if one had plunged a Dagger in her Heart) She let herself sink down betwixt the beloved Arms of Calliante, who never received so acceptable a burden; as she never swooned with so much delight. This Fainting was beyond Jest, proceeding not from Sorrow, but the excess of Contentment, which transported her at the Presence of an Object dearer to her than the whole Universe besides: yet the aspersion of a little cool Water upon her Face recalled her Spirits from that amorous trance. As an Infant sleeping betwixt its Nurse's Arms, doth open leisurely its little Eyes, when she spurts out of her Breasts some drops of Milk upon its Face; so gracefully did Serife unclose here's, feeling her Cheeks bedewed with some Tears, which Apprehension and Tenderness had squeezed out of Calliante's Eyes, being troubled at this unexpected Accident.  
This tempest being passed, Calliante fell into another, being assaulted on all sides with the Reproaches and Accusations of the Assistants, for having raised that Storm, which blasted all the Flowers that appeared so Lively, and so Lovely in that lady's Countenance. Alas! said he, carrying Compassion in his Looks, persecute me no more for a fault, which hath brought its Repentance with it, and for which I crave this virtuous lady's and the whole company's Pardon. I confess that my indiscreet Expressions did hurry her even to the threshold of Death, but I am so sorry for having reduced her to that extremity, that I protest by the Beauty of her Eyes, (whose light I shall ever hereafter most inviolably honour) to belie those audacious Words by contrary Effects, turning the fury of my Passion against my Sister and my own Blood, and regain Her the possession of that Husband, whose disloyalty rendereth him unworthy of her Merits, and whom, notwithstanding, she seems so passionately to affect.  
Courteous Sir, replied Serife, as your first speeches precipitated me into the pit of Death, this second give's me a desire to Live. But have a care to verify your words if you will have me esteem you a Gentleman of Honour. Madam, said Calliante, if Death prevent me not in the attempt, I will exactly perform my Promise; For, I had rather lose my Life, than slain my Honour with the breach of my Word. A more sensible affront cannot be done to any Man, than that which our Family receiveth from your Husband; but I remit the Vengeance to Heaven, and lay my interest at your Feet, resolving to exercise my Indignation only against that unadvised Girl, who hath suffered herself to be abused by him. and who by her indiscretion hath blemished the honour of our House.  
If you forgive my Husband, for Heaven's sake and my consideration, with all my Heart I pardon Almeria th' offence which she hath committed against me. But if Courtesy (the Queen of gentile Spirits, like yours) hath any ascendant over your Heart, I conjure you to let it plead for Me, and obtain the Favour which I shall demand of you. Demand not, Madam, answered, Calliante, but Command; For, I esteem it as great a glory to obey you, as I should be sensible of shame to refuse you any thing, were it to the hazard not only of my Fortunes, but of my Life and Honour. I do not use to make any such Reservations, when I tender my services to Ladies of your Quality, especially when they are accompanied with such Virtue and Graces as you possess.  
Sir, replied Serife, I am so far from desiring any thing prejudicial to your Fortunes, Honour or Life, that clean-contrary I Study the preservation of them all together, beseeching you to pardon your Sister, and not to execute any Vengeance upon Her Person; She is your own Flesh and Blood, and (as it were) another self. Why do I say another Self? These Shepherdesses (who have seen you both) tell me, that one drop of Water is less like another than you two, so that you seem not only to be Twins, but the same Person; there being none living able to distinguish the one from the other, and that would not take Her for Calliante if she were in your , and you for Almeria if you were in Her's. For (which Heavens forbidden) if in the heat of your Passion you should dip your Hands in the Blood of that miserable Creature, who could exempt you from expiating that Parricide by the loss of your Honour, Life and Fortunes, I say, by the prosecution of humane Justice? which though you should find means to escape, would not the Divine, (think you) persecute you through all the corners of the Earth, whither your guilt would make you wander (like a desperate Orestes) without finding any repose for your Conscience, which would be agitated with a thousand Furies, the Voice of Blood crying out incessantly for Vengeance of your Crime?  
Calliante feigning to be overcome by her conjuring Speech, made appear that the Poet's fictions were not without reason, when they made Love disarm the God of War, and snatch the Thunder out of Jupiter's Hand; For, casting all his Poison under the beautiful Serife's feet, he protested that he would do no violence to the person of Iphis, nor vent his Passion against Almeria, but would continue loving Her as Himself, and honour Him in the person of that Lady, under whose obedience he resolved to Live and Die. Thus the Peace was concluded, to the great contentment both of the Gentlemen & Rustics, who were as much amazed to see in so little time so great a change, as when a furious Tempest, which fills the Air with Thunder, & storms the Earth with Rain and horrid Hail, is suddenly dissipated, leaving the agreeable Rays of the Sun in full liberty to enlighten those that do behold them. It was as easy for Calliante to keep his Oath, as hard for him to break it; For, how could he offend Iphis without injuring Serife, or take revenge of Almeria without turning his fury upon himself? So, they all agreed to terminate amiably this memorable adventure, and rather to employ the Oil of Friendship, than the Vinegar of Enmity for the healing of their imaginary wounds.  
Their Conversation being ended with the Day, Serife remained with Celian's Daughters, whilst Calliante and the other Gentlemen retired themselves with their Rustic Attendants to their Lodging. Money being not spared, there was great cheer on all sides; For, besides the Presents which Serife bestowed on Celian, and his Daughters, Calliante was no less liberal to his Assistants, who promised him a thousand services for his generosity to them. As it is the custom of Peasants in all places to drink freely, especially in the Septentrional Countries, these spent the best part of the Night at that exercise; in so much that the Sun was already well advanced in his Diurnal course, before their Eyes were capable of discovering his Light. Whilst they were buried in that Liquor, the abundance whereof engendereth Sleep, no less than the juice of Poppies, our Gentlemen had full leisure to entertain Calliante, who acting the modest Virgin before them, made show of a certain bashfulness, which argued nothing of a lose Life; For, persons given over to Impudicity, do commonly acquire the quality of Impudence; So that they knew not how to judge lightly of her, whom they saw so extremely reserved; And this was the only part Calliante had now to play, to make them still take him for Almeria.  
Then falling upon the Discourse of the passionate Affection he expressed to Serife, the Gentlemen told her that they could not but admire to see the chance so turned, that being now in Man's apparel she seemed to be excessively taken with Iphis, who some Days before received nothing but Marks of her Disdain. Whereunto Calliante thus replied, I know not if those  be enchanted, but I must confess that since his change of Habit, my Heart is become so Linked to his perfections, that out of his Presence I am like a Marigold, which closeth when the Sun is set. The Countrymen being risen (to be rid of their not much pleasing Company) he dispersed them several ways, to make further search after the Fugitives, that they might not (as he pretended) travel up and down in vain as they had done the day before. They being gone upon this trivial errand, the conversation of the remaining Day was in the Forest, under the delightful shades, in the company of the Gentlemen and Shepherdesses; who thought they had made no little gain by the change of Iphis and Almeria, for Calliante and Serife, measuring the quality and merit of the Persons by the profit which accrued to them. In this agreeable place, where the Shepherds used to lay their Nets for the innocent Beasts, did our Gallants contrive inventions to deceive their simplicity. Here it was where those who thought to surprise, were themselves surprised, and where was acted the most pleasant Piece of cozenage, that could be imagined.  
For, first, if you consider the Shepherdesses, there was not one of them, but took Calliante and Serife for quite other persons, than those which had appeared before, under the Names of Almeria and Iphis. Next, if you look upon Calliante, though he did the office of a Deceiver, he was deceived no less than they, taking Serife to be a Man, whom Nature had created otherwise; than the Gentlemen, who had disguised themselves to abuse the Peasant's Eyes, had their error also; For, they thought Calliante to be a Woman, when he was really what his habit spoke him. Neither was Serife without a share of mistake, in that she conceived that the Passion which Calliante expressed to her was feigned, when his Tongue was a faithful Interpreter of his Heart's sincerest thoughts. As for Calliante's Scouts, Lupicin and the rest, their fruitless peregrination was a sufficient testimony of their being perfectly abused. Only Celian was not deceived in his end, who aiming at nothing but to get what he could on all sides, found his account well enough; it was indifferent to him whether Iphis and Almeria, or Calliante and Serife filled his House, so that his Purse was filled he cared no further.  
Whilst the compassionate Shepherdesses endeavour to comfort the desolate Lady, with the hope they gave her of shortly seeing again her Husband, in regard there were so many Messengers well acquainted with all the passages of that Forest, sent several ways to seek him, she sighed for an Object present in Body, but whom she thought absent in Heart, not deeming herself to be the absolute Mistress of his desires. And as by instinct of Nature every one is apt to lay his Hand on the Sore, or to the place where he feeleth pain, they were no sooner seated under the favourable covert of a fair Sicomore Tree, whose root was watered with the Crystal of a clear Fountain, but Serife began to rip up the remembrance of her disgrace. What Lenitives soever the assistants endeavoured to apply, it seemed as if the anguish of her wound was augmented by their remedies.  
Calliante and the other Gentlemen alleged many exquisite reasons, and acute Arguments, to convince her obstinate grieving, which would much embellish this History, if I did not fear to spin it out too far beyond my measure. I shall therefore content myself to remark only this pretty accident which interrupted their discourse: It was the plaintive chanting of a Turtle-Dove, who having chosen her seat upon a withered stump among those Leaves, began to salute their Ears with a tone so doleful, that it would have moved Compassion in Souls least susceptible of pity; which gave occasion to Serife to return it these words: Pitiful Bird, the living Emblem of my condition, thou comest very opportunely to present thyself to my view, and teach me to bemoan, in an accent, like thine, the Miseries that afflict me. Thou makest us sufficiently understand, that thou hast lost thy Mate, either by the cruel stroke of Death, or some sinister straying; and thy Groans reverberating the Echoes of these Woods, seem either to recall him to Life, or to carry him news of thee; to the end by his return thou mayst give o'er complaining. Sweet Dove, thou hast no Gall, neither haste thou any need of it; For, thou art assured that his unfaithfulness will never give thee cause to express any anger. Alas! I am not so perfect, nor so happy, for the jealousy which devours me, takes away all sense of sweetness, and makes me hate to live, by reason of the inconstancy of him, who hath made me so many deep Protestations never to be capable of disloyalty. Go pretty Pigeon, and since I have Married my Accents with thine, direct thy speedy Wings towards the place where my perfidious Iphis now is, and if thou canst not make him consider the torment which his ingratitude causeth me to suffer, make him ashamed by thy presence, and let him see that Men (more unreasonable in their irregular dispositions than Animals which have no understanding) may learn of them Lessons of Fidelity and Temperance.  
She had continued longer in this mournful strain, if Calliante seeming to fear lest the excess of sorrow should transport her into some unseemly extravagance, had not broke off her Speech, telling her, that to talk to Birds, and to sow upon the Sands, were things equally absurd; That she ought to hope for better Fortune, and take the consolation which is commonly given to young Widows, which is, that by the loss of one Husband they may have the choice of divers others. And being of a Jovial Disposition, especially in these delightful Recreations, having a greater desire to pass his time in Laughing than Lamenting, he fancied an Air to some Lines, in answer (as he said) of the Turtle's mournful Tune. So with a very agreeable Voice, he animated these  

STANCES.  

THese Pains assail not you alone,  
For among Mortals there's not one,  
But feels his Reason overswaied  
Sometimes; there are no Souls, whom Love  
Hath to such Discontents betrayed,  
But like Effects of Pity move.   

Why by an Humour then so Blind,  
Which disturb's your Riper Mind,  
Feed you your Thoughts with bitter Pain;  
Since 'tis the Poison of the Heart,  
Rather by Custom to complain,  
Than by Reason ease the Smart?   

Some transports of Grief's excess  
May be excused, I confess,  
But how can you  justify  
These Afflictions indiscreet,  
Whereby you seem an Enemy  
To that Face and Eyes so sweet?   

What Trespass hath that Golden Tress  
(Of Lover's Vows the dear Address)  
Done, to deserve the Penalty  
Of so Severe a Punishment,  
And receive the Salary  
Of Crimes whereof 'tis Innocent?   

Th' Ingrateful whom you thus bemoan,  
What rare Perfections can He own  
To merit, that away should fade  
The beauteous Roses of your Face,  
And let pale Sorrow thus invade,  
And play the Tyrant in their place?   

Appease the Tumults of your Breast,  
Change these Distractions into Rest,  
And by the End of this sad Rage  
(To oblige some better Spirits)  
Rob not your Beauties from this Age,  
Which hath its Glory from your Merits.   

If the Power you call to Mind,  
Wherewith your Grace's use to blind  
Beholders, when your Eyes are calm;  
Of Dying quit that strange Desire,  
And done't reject that glorious Palm,  
Which by their Luster you acquire.    
As long Hair imbellisheth handsome Faces, and rendereth more ugly those that are ill-favoured; So Music hath that property to enlighten Hearts inclined to Mirth, and augment the Sadness of those that are Melancholy. The Gentlemen and Shepherdesses, whose Spirits began to droop at Serife's heaviness, were much rejoiced with this Singing; but the afflicted lady's heart seemed to be deeper sunk in Sorrow. These sweet words were to those dull Rustic Souls, like Pearls cast before Creatures incapable to judge of their value; but they were otherwise understood by the Courtiers, who judging of the Lion by the Claw, by this Essay of Calliante's wit (whom they still took to be Almeria) presently gathered this conjecture, that the Palatine was more in Love with the Beauty of her Mind, than of her Body, which was comely enough for a Man, but hardly handsome for a Woman. After a little time Serife having weighed in her Thoughts the sense of Calliante's Verses, as soon as she demanded it, obtained leave to evaporate these  

SIGHS.  

WHen (Soul) wilt thou enjoy some Rest,  
Leaving the Prison of this Breast?  
When shall thy Days and Pains have End,  
Since thy Griefs beyond compare  
Have only the last Hope to friend  
Of those that perish with Despair?   

Yet when this Body, pale as Led,  
Augments the number of the Dead,  
How shalt thou assurance have  
To see the End of thy Torment,  
If separated by the Grave  
To Thee remains yet Sentiment?   

Heavens, Directors of our Fate,  
Planets, who, like a Reprobate,  
Condemn me to be miserable,  
If all things else their Limits know,  
Why will you render Memorable  
By its Eternity my Woe?   

Fortune hath made my troubled Heart  
The Mark of each malicious Dart:  
The Source is dreined of my Tears,  
And now are always in my Sight  
Of the dire Fury's Torch the Fears,  
In stead of Titan's pleasing Light.   

Alas! what Light can me rejoice,  
Since separated from my Choice  
The Morningstar of my Delight?  
This is the worst of Tyrannies,  
To rob It of Its glorious Light  
Or to bereave Me of my Eyes.   

By hiding Him from outward view,  
Unkindest Spirits, what? think you  
My inward Faculties to blind,  
And by th' Essay of your dread Ire,  
Stealing the Pleasure of my Mind,  
To bar me also of Desire?   

No, treacherous Ingratitude,  
Who of my Sense's servitude  
The Patience dost exercise,  
By Calms and Tempests, as you please,  
With no less Fury than do rise  
The Winds to agitate the Seas:   

Know, that by a generous wound,  
Rage in my dearest Blood had drowned  
My wretched Life with this Disgrace,  
If through a fond Timidity,  
My Fury had not given place  
To the Fear of displeasing thee.    
The Courtiers (who were only able to discern the Vivacity of this Reply, and not to savour simply the Air, as the Shepherdesses did, but taste the Sweetness which was comprised in these Lines) were hereby invited to display afresh all their Rhetoric to conjure that Sorrow, which Serife feigned with such dexterity, that they could hardly believe it was a Fiction; but that she had taken that Cloak to cover the real Resentments of her Passion for Almeria. And with joint supplications they never ceased importuning her, until they had drawn a solemn promise from her Mouth to requite Calliante's courtesy, by changing the Resolution, she seemed to have taken, of Dying; as at her entreaty he had renounced his of kill Iphis or Almeria. And hereupon Calliante beating the Iron while it was hot, and making use of this overture, was not satisfied with her yielding to this request; but acting openly the passionate Lover, he offered to be her Servant, in case her Husband did repudiate her to marry Almeria, swearing to her by all that was most sacred, That he would be as zealous to render her the most assured Testimonies of an inviolable Loyalty, as Iphis had been forward to afflict her with his unworthy Ingratitude.  
If it be true that the Thunder proceeds from the Antiperistasis of Heat and Cold, and that there are passages from one Extremity to another, which leave no perceptible Medium; whereof the experience may be seen in great Friendships, which are changed into mortal Hatreds: It was in this Point, that Serife manifested either her Dexterity, or the Levity of her Sex; The first, in doing like those Coachmen or exact Horsemen, who show their skill by their quick turning; the other, in changing Face much more suddenly than the Night ruling Planet, which is thought to have so much communication with the weaker Sex. For, as if Despite had restored her Reason, which an excess of Love had ravished from her, she presently appeared as if she had been cured of her doleful Humour, and putting on a serener look, her Eyes gave an evident testimony that her Ears were not displeased with that new Proposition.  
But lest any should condemn her of too much easiness to be won, they are to consider that this was only a Fallacy to abuse the Countrypeople, (the Gentlemen knowing it already) and besides, that it was not without divers persuasions, as well on Calliante's part as of his associates, that she delivered the Arms of her obstinacy by bending her Resolution to this Condescendence. Which she did with such gracefulness, that she effaced all suspicion out of the Shepherdesse's Souls, as she left no small admiration of her wit in the Gentleman's, and to crown this action, she demanded Permission to sigh out this  

COMPLAINT.  

MUst I then, Oh! cruel Fate,  
Out of my Soul's Image blot,  
And must Despair now separate  
Whom Death's severity could not?   

Must my sincere Affection's fire,  
Extinguished by Disloyalty,  
Resign its Flames to the Desire  
Of a revengeful Tyranny?   

Sol may as well sequestered be  
Of Light, as I of my Desire,  
Though his ingrateful Levity  
Indeavour's to befrost my Fire.   

His Oaths and execrable vows,  
(From which Despair now set's me free)  
Dear Sighs and Torments, pleasing Woes,  
Can I forget and living be?   

Can I with settled Front behold  
Of his bewitching Face the Charms,  
As motionless as Mountains bold  
Reject th' inclement Air's alarms?   

Alas! my treacherous Will, I fear,  
Will render my Fault pardonless,  
As it is seen in Treason, where  
They're punished that in Will transgress.   

But if by his Inconstancy,  
I am compelled to this Divorce,  
Reserving of that sacred tie,  
Only th' ungrateful Mark of Force:   

To Free myself from his sweet Bonds,  
I contradict my proper Sense,  
And this no Reason else Commands  
But too much injured Innocence.   

In fine, the Lot's now cast, I'll try  
(And let not any think it strange)  
To pay his Mutability,  
With a just Vengeance by my Change.    
Calliante finding this conclusion favourable to his Design, interrupted her Singing with these words: Madam, Nature hath endued our Souls with a certain instinct which inclineth us to the preservation of ourselves, as appears by Persons that are drowning, who lay hold on any thing they can reach to save their Lives. Some few days since you and I, without Reason or Consideration, did run to find out Rocks, where (according to the violence of the Passions which blinded us) we could expect no less than a deplorable Shipwreck: But the just Heavens (which favour good intentions) have not permitted us to fall into those Precipices, quite contrary, in having made us known to each other, it seems that they have imitated the Earth, which produceth no venomous Plant, but hath ordered its Antidote to grow near it, if we have the skill to distinguish them. For, if we manage aright the occasion that is now presented to us, we may reap great Advantage by our Loss, and draw an extreme Satisfaction from the Centre of our Afflictions, as the purest Pearls, which are so clear and smooth, are taken out of black and rugged Shells.  
Then, to create a belief that she should find a more solid and firm supporter of him than she fancied, he made her a summary Relation of his Condition and Quality (as he had done before in Celian's House, when he so handsomely cheated all that heard him) adding some circumstances, and so quaintly contrived Expressions, that the most scrupulous of the assistants could hardly believe their Eyes, their Ears were so surprised. It is true, being touched to the quick, he animated his Discourse with so passionate an Action, that it was easy to discern he had much interest in those passages; Which was taken diversely by the Shepherdesses, Courtiers, Serife and Himself. In sum, upon this last Resolution, the Sun beginning to make Night by the far extending of his Shades, they retired to the Village; the two Lovers more enamoured than satisfied of each other, because, for divers respects, they durst not manifest their Resentments; The Shepherdesses not very well pleased with the lady's sudden change, who therein shown herself more Woman than they could have wished for the Honour of their Sex, and the Courtiers full of admiration at the dexterous conduct of this Plot, whereinto they penetrated no farther than half way.   

The Ninth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Serife's passionate Complaint to Boleslaus. His discreet Answer. Serife's moanfull soliloquy being retired into her Chamber. Calliante's feigned Plot to steal away Serife in the Night. His Speech to the Swains, persuading them to assist him. He discover's his Design to the disguised Gentlemen. Theirs & the Rusticks several resentments. Merinda acquaints Serife with Calliante's intention. Her counterfeited Astonishment. The zealous Pomeran's serious Speech to Almeria, thinking her really a Woman. Her wittily-framed Answer to increase his Mistake. The Countrymen by the gentlemen's wrangling with Almeria (in Calliante's habit) are brought into suspicion of Serife's, and his transvestment. Pomeran demands the Justice's Assistance to prevent the feigned Rape of Serife. The Character of Lawyers and Judges. Calliante and the Rustics are imprisoned. The Rustics are presently released upon Bail. Upon their Petition all the disguised Gentlemen & Serife are likewise committed into several Prisons. Their contradictory Answers to the Judge's Interrogatories. The noise of Iphigenes his Country-Mistress is carried to the Court. Modestina, being animated by Love and Jealousy, makes her escape out of Prison, and comes disguised to Plocens to seek her Husband Iphigenes. Her resemblance to her Brother Liante makes her be apprehended, by Mieslas' command, for him. Arcade coming to advertise Iphigenes of Mieslas cruelty to the supposed Liante, is imprisoned likewise by the Clowns. His Deposition before the Country-Judges, and his ambiguous Conference with Boleslaus, and his fellow- Prisoners. Calliante's and Serife's distemper at Arcade's news. Their several Speeches to the Judges. They are more straight imprisoned for their high Words. Boleslaus' subtle Plot to procure the enlargement of Serife and the rest. The extorting Judge, to screw money out of his disguised Prisoners, condemns Serife and Calliante to a privy Search. Celian's Daughters are appointed to do the Office. Serife overcomes her Shee-visiters with Presents, and large Promises Calliante pays them with Kicks and Blows. He is Beaten by the Peasants (that rescue the Shepherdesses) bound Hand and Foot, and threatened to be put to a shameful Death. Humbertus Captain of Iphigenes Guards, coming with his Troop upon notice from Boleslaus, apprehends the Judge with all his Complices, and releases Iphigenes and the rest. Humbertus his suspicion concerning Calliante's suffering. The Conference betwixt Humbertus, Calliante and Iphigenes. A Consultation among the released Prisoners what punishment to inflict upon those Clowns and judge. Boleslaus his discreet Opinion. The justice and Clemency of Iphigenes in punishing those Offenders.  
THey had not been long returned to their Village, before the weary Swains came dropping in from several parts, as wise as when they went out; yet every one, not to appear an unprofitable Servant, made his report, which came as near to the truth as white to black, and had as little reference to each other. For, some promised him the next day to bring him certain tidings where the Fugitives were; others despaired of ever finding them; like the Scouts of the Israëlites, whereof some discouraged the People from entering into the Land of Promise, others made them believe wonders to animate them to that glorious Conquest. There was nothing to be talked of, but to provide good cheer for those hungry Seekers. who had lost their labour in following a Shadow and embracing the Wind.  
Thus the Evening passed, not without many Protestations of an inviolable affection betwixt Calliante and Serife, each striving in cozening his companion to deceive himself. Their discourse for some time was in private, where (after some laughter at the simplicity of those whom they had abused) said Calliante, Amongst all this jesting we may be caught ourselves in earnest. For, I protest, Brother (said he in her Ear) thou dost act Serife so admirably, that I cannot take thee for Iphis, and I consume within myself by an unknown Passion, which give's me a cruel torment, but such a torment, that I had rather be cured by the hand of Death, than use the means which the Tempter proposeth to me. My Soul abhor's so execrable an impiety, so detestable an abomination, and I protest that I love nothing in thee but what seems to be Feminine, and if there were a Fountain in the World, where Males might be Metamorphosed into Females, my Passion would make me so uncivil as to do my best to plunge you in it perforce, having first employed all my Rhetoric to persuade you. But this is better to be wished for than expected, and fit to amuse my Passion than ease my Pain. Alas! I suffer really what Ixion endure's in the Fable, and this for desiring (like him) to embrace a Cloud: For, what is that but the shadow of a Feminine Beauty which I admire in you? Ah! Dear Iphis, do you not pity my perplexity?  
So much, answered Serife, that against the advantages which Nature giveth to the condition of Men, you make me almost desire to be a Woman, that I might possess you entirely, and under the Laws of Hymen be perfectly yours. But, Brother, Is it possible that you can jeer so handsomely at my simplicity, and that you are so Artificial as still to continue your dissimulation before me, who plainly perceive your policy? Those Heats of the Liver which your Speech discover's, resemble the Surges that appear in the Sea some time after the Winds are down, and the Tempest of the Air ceased, as marks of its anger, and precedent agitation. You think (I believe) that those Gentlemen and Shepherdesses understand what you say, not considering that you speak particularly to me, and that you are heard by no other Ears than mine.  
I do not use to be so ravished from myself, replied Calliante, that I cannot see to whom and before whom I speak, and by calling you, Brother, you may well judge that I presuppose no body here's me but yourself, and therefore I now unmask myself to you, assuring you that if under the simple habit of a Shepherdess you appeared to my Eyes no less beautiful than an Angel, under the Ornaments wherewith you are now attired, your presence doth so transport my senses that I may well forget that you are a Man, since mistaking myself I know not what I am, nor by consequent what I either say or do I feel a dizziness of Brain which so disturbeth my Reason, that if you altar not speedily the Scene, I shall be overcome with these Illusions, and fall into the strangest Frenzy that ever possessed a Spirit diversely agitated.  
They had not so soon ended this amorous Conference, but the hour of the Night separated them, Serife remaining in the company of the Shepherdesses (or rather of her own thoughts) and Calliante retiring with the Men to take some rest, if the perplexity of his Mind would permit. Boleslaüs by the privilege of his grizzled Beard, and the Quality of Governor to Iphis, had the favour to stay some while after the rest with the Lady, as having some business of importance to impart to her. Being alone, after some merriment at the success of their stratagem, Serife who was all on fire, or rather all fire for Calliante, (yet who through a dissimulation, natural to her Sex, could discreetly retain her impatiences) embracing the old Man, said, Father, Now is the only time of setting a period to my miseries, by discovering to Liante who I am, being fully assured of his Affection to me. Then having related to him from point to point their sweet secret Discourse, He will doubtless, continued she, hold it a perfect Miracle to find me as he desire's me. If I defer it any longer, Occasion (which is bald) will presently pass, and perchance I shall never find one so favourable as this, which now presents itself; Fortune envious of Virtue, and who hath been my Enemy from my Cradle, will probably suscitate some cruel blast that may nip my Design in the Blossom, and reducing my hopes into Ashes make them be blown away with the Wind. My tongue's end itched to tell him what I was, but Shame stopped the passage of my Voice, and besides Prudence suggested to my Thoughts, that (not to disobey my dear Mother Aretuza) I ought to do nothing without your advice, (my dear Father) I pray conform it to my Desire, if you Desire to preserve my Life.  
Madam, replied the discreet Senior, I so much desire the preservation of your Life, that I will always be ready to redeem it with the loss of mine own; but I beseech you to consider that all Passions are Precipitated; all Precipitation is Blind & Blindness is incompatible with Reason. What we do through the violence of that Motion, is not judicious; & that which is without Judgement is subject to great Failings, & those Failings to remarkable Repentance: You may do what you please, it is my Duty to Obey you, and move in the Sphere of your Authority. You are past Childhood now, the yoke of Paternal power doth no longer press your neck, take heed of imitating the Birds whom Love driveth into the Fowler's Nets, and thence to Death, or, at least, into Captivity. The Servitude whereunto Marriage obligeth Ladies is not small, those Devoirs will seem very strange to you, and for a Pleasure which you esteem the more, the less you know it, you will purchase to yourself much Pain. Besides, what will People say, nay, what will they not say, if you discover yourself, and be Married in this manner? You will lose all your Estate and Honours, and you shall be sure to make your Father your Enemy, who will pursue you with Fire and Sword; your Mother will run the hazard of her Life, and not being advertised of your proceed, she will be so perplexed, that the fear of Death will perchance make her anticipate the Vengeance of the rigorous Mieslas. Clandestine Marriages (whatsoever can be objected) are always suspicious, and bear the Mark of Dishonesty in their Faces. What will these Gentlemen think that are in your company? At first, it may be, they will conceit, that all this was done by Witchcraft, but when Time shall have made appear, that there is no other Magic than Natural, if they do not blame your Conduct, it will be either for want of judgement, or through excess of Friendship. Consider moreover, that if the secret which we have so long concealed, should be disclosed in this manner, you will render yourself the Fable of the whole World, and the most infamous and dishonoured Creature under the Sun; Whereas, if moderating your Desires a little, you will but follow my former Counsels, (which you were than pleased to relish, and your Mother approved, and which are conformable to your Affection and Design for Liante) Fame will speak you not only in Polonia, but through the whole Universe, the most admirable, the most Honourable and the most triumphant Virgin, that ever Nature framed: the Mouths of Mortals will not have Tongues sufficient, nor their Tongues words, nor their Words terms elegant enough to express the Greatness of your Name, and represent the Splendour of that unspeakable Glory wherewith you shall be crowned, and which will one day, by the Pen of some eminent Historian, convey your Esteem into the Memory of succeeding Ages. Marriage, Madam, is a sacred and indissoluble bond which ought to be treated of with Grave and Serious deliberation, not amongst these Facetious Recreations; Those that contract Matrimony ought to proceed with great Circumspection, and think upon the establishment of their Fortunes, and the good of their Progeny, rather than the satisfying of their Lusts. If you do otherwise, the Shadow is not so inseparable from the Body, as Repentance will be from your Action; And it is far more easy to prevent a Mischief, than remedy it when it is happened. I am not against your being Married to Liante; since from your Infancy it seems that Heaven (where Marriages are made) hath destined you for him, but I would advise you to defer your Wedding, and of  render it glorious, of private public; hid not with shameful obscurity that which ought to be illuminated with the clearest Light that ever produced Day. What is but prolonged is not lost, and my judgement can foresee no Cause (what Venom soever envious Fortune spit's in virtue's face) capable of hindering so just and so Legitimate an Effect, which may Crown your Father's Heart with Satisfaction, your Mother's with Gladness, the King with Contentment, and the whole World with Wonder.  
These words pronounced with a zealous sincerity, conformable to the disposition of him that uttered them, were as Water cast upon the Fire of that Passion & as a Bridle to that Temptation which began to transport the Reason of the virtuous Serife. And immediately a Vermilion colour (the livery of Modesty) overspread her Cheeks, not without some trickling tears, which the vehemency of her distemper extorted from her Eyes. He that hath ever observed the Pearls that Aurora sprinkle's upon red Roses, may fancy something near the countenance of that Lady, scorched with Shame and watered with Tears. Thence the prudent Boleslaüs gathered, that her Heart was in no ill temper, and that Honour gaving gained the victory of Love, did render Reason triumphant over Passion. At length with no less Sweetness and Modesty, than he had Compassion to see her in that Perplexity she answered: Be assured, Father, that this assault, nor any other (Heavens permitting) shall ever make me forget my duty, neither have I hitherto admitted any thing into my thoughts, contrary to what a Virgin of Honour oweth to her Reputation and Virtue: The End which I pretend is so Glorious, that it is sufficient to justify all the means I use to achieve it. But since your Prudence, ripened by the advantage of Years and much experience, makes you judge that the fruit of my desire is not yet come to maturity, I will defer the gathering it, until you shall think it time for me to cast off my veil. This said, not to press any farther her Heart, big with Sighs, Boleslaüs having made his obeisance and wished her good rest, left her, to retire to his other Companions.  
Then, Serife seeing herself alone and thinking she was unheard, having opened the Flood gates of her Eyes, and given Air to her sighs, she eased the burden of her overswollen Heart by the utterance of these doleful words. Wretched Serife, how long must thou (like a miserable Sisyphus) roll this stone, which is no sooner brought to the top of thy pretensions, but by a fatal weight, in spite of all thy Force and Industry, it takes the advantage of the steep descent to precipitate thee into the bottom of Despair? Shalt thou never see an end of this Labour, no less Unprofitable than Painful? Shall a clear Day, dissipating the foggy Vapours which environ thee, never shine upon thy Repose? Is it then Registered in the Book of Fate, that thou must consume in these comfortless Woods the most flourishing season of thy Years, in the Presence, but not to the knowledge of him, who is the innocent and amiable Cause of thy sufferings? must thou then spend, and perchance end thy Days in these obscurities without informing him, who thou art, and of the true manner of thy Love? Oh Liante, Oh Calliante! if you could read within my Heart the Torments which you make me feel, as you find in my Face the subject of your own Disturbances, I am confident you would be moved with the same Compassion for my Woes, as you desire me to have of yours. Alas! you have this Comfort at least in your Disease, that you tell me freely what you think, but I nourishing your Perplexities by my own Pains, dare not speak half my thoughts, lest you should discover what I am, and know too soon for my Contentment, what you will never know but too late for my Desire. Rigorous Law of Honour, why hast thou chosen the infirmity of our Sex, unless it be to render more sensible the effects of thy Violence? But no, dear Honour, Pearl beyond esteem; no sacred Chastity, (who to every well-bred soul art a kind of inviolable Deity) I am determined to consecrate my pleasure to thee, and sacrifice upon the Altar of thy severity my innocent Desires; I have ever hitherto been too Religious an observer of thy dictates, to forget now so lightly what I have been, what I am, and what I ought to be, if I will close the Period of my Life in that Reputation, which in this World I have acquired. Yet I find by Experience (which I did not heretofore believe) that there is no punishment so great as the sight of that which we are forbidden; For, the Object irritating Desire, and Respect striving to suppress its Motions; in this contention is form the most exquisite torment that ever tortured any Soul. But when I consider that it is partly for Honour's sake, partly for a subject which I esteem beyond Expression, the Beauty of these Causes abateth the Rigour of the Effect, and makes me find I know not what Pleasure in my Pains. Only the silence, which I so exactly keep, aggravates their smart, and renders my Flames more ardent, the more they are suppressed. He that dares vent his Misery by Complaints, suffers but half the Anguish; they are Happy in their unhappiness who suffer for an Object that is informed of their Martyrdom, and is capable of corresponding with their Desires: But 'tis a double torment to be consumed with Care, and with the Fear of revealing it. This is to die like a silly Sheep, which without crying receive's the Knife in her throat.  

Oh Heaven! the witness of my Moans,  
Who th' ruin of my Joy conspires,  
Grant that the Author of my Groans  
Like you, may read my Heart's Desires:  
Or consolate my troubled Sense,  
By lessening my Misery;  
Or, else give me the Confidence  
To say in Dying, that I Die.   
As if these verses had had the power to call SLEEP out of his dark Cave, where the Poets feign, that he frameth the fantastical extravagancies of Dreams, he gently poured into her languishing Eyes some juice of Poppies, which caused so pleasant a drowsiness, that letting her body fall upon the bed, all her sorrows were drowned in that repose, which Nature hath ordained so necessary for the preservation of Life.  
The Country-People's Houses are commonly so ill built, that they let in the Light by as many holes as Argus had Eyes, so that out of one Chamber one may not only hear, but see what passeth in the next. This gave Celian's Daughters the curiosity, not only to hearken to the Discourse betwixt Boleslaüs and Serife, and to her complaints after he had left her, but also to observe her deportments; whereby they gathered that she was really much afflicted. But neither by their Discourse, nor her behaviour, could they ground any conjecture contrary to the Opinion they conceived, that she was indeed Iphis Wife, induced to affect Calliante as much out of spite to see herself rejected by the one, as by inclination to the merits of the other. Thus passed away the Night, whose sable veil equalizeth High to Low, Rich to Poor, and, by the benefit of Sleep, the unhappiest to the most Fortunate.  
Next Morning some of the Swains, alured with the lustre of gain, offered themselves betimes to Calliante to make another Search; but he thinking to have better sport by their presence than in sending them away, having warmed their Heads with Wine, made them this pleasant Proposition, saying: Honest friends, you know the injury Iphis hath done me by abusing my Sister; you know the Assistance you have promised me in taking my Revenge of him, I cannot desire a more sweet, a more fit, nor a more ready one, than by stealing away his Wife and making her Mine, to oblige him by this irreparable Offence to Marry my Sister (as he hath promised) and leave Serife to me, whom he would be loath to acknowledge for his Wife, after she hath been in my possession. In saying this he dazzled their Eyes with an handful of Crowns, which made them promise to further his Design without any farther consideration; Then continued he; But you must beware lest these Gentlemen, (who are his friends, and as many Spies to watch our actions) discover this Match: For, if they should perceive any thing, our Plot would be prevented and my hopes absolutely ruined, which would transport me into the desperatest Rage, that can possess a Soul doubly inflamed with Love and Revenge. You know that this Lady hath some inclination for me, and that the vexation of seeing herself forsaken by her Husband, doth animate her to resent that affront in the same manner as I propose to you. It is true that as that Sex is subject to Apprehensions, it is incapable of sudden and violent Enterprises; besides, Ladies are generally of that disposition, not to yield without some show of compulsion, even in things where they are lest of all forced. I can assure you, how displeased soever she seems, and whatsoever she saith to the contrary, that the Rape which I intent will be attended by her own Consent, which will be a sufficient justification for my action and your assistance. But, in regard Resolutions of this Nature, have all their Effect and vigour in their sudden Expedition, this must be put in execution this Night, by favour of the intelligence we will have with Celian's Daughters, your Sisters and Allies.  
This was no sooner moved, but resolved. Calliante having disposed them to this attempt, discovered presently the design to the Gentlemen, to the end they should oppose the carrying away of Serife, and that their opposition might make another Scene of Merriment, which will have an Exit contrary to what he imagined. The Swains of necessity must communicate this Plot to the Shepherdesses, in regard they were to be instrumental to the effecting of it. But he that tell's a Secret to three Women must not look to have it long kept Secret. They presently revealed it to their Father, that he might not be surprised with that action. But He, who loved the present better than the future, and Effects better than Promises, did not approve of that enterprise, which besides its injustice, and being subject to many disasters, rob him of his dear Guests, who yielded him more profit in a week, than he could get by his tillage in a Year; So that, partly out of Prudence, partly for his private interest, he absolutely refused his consent, commanding Merinda to advertise Serife, that she might stand upon her Guard; this Office Merinda would have performed without his injunction; For, her Heart was so oppressed with that Secret, that she had resolved to disburden it by her Tongue, whatsoever befell.  
At this news Serife counterfeited such amazement, that she seemed, for a while, as if Fear had been carrying her Soul out of her Body; at length having somewhat recollected her Spirits, with a trembling voice she said; To what a degree of Misery doth Fortune reduce me, since she persecute's me so cruelly, that in the same Port where Hope promised me Security, She makes me suffer Shipwreck? What? must I then follow those I ought to shun, and fly from those who promised me all assistance? Those disguised Gentlemen, my Husband's Friends, will they be my Protectors against him that made me such solemn protestations to preserve me from all injuries? Ah Calliante, you will sell at a dear rate the promise you gave me of your succour, since without having the patience to stay till the Fruit be Ripe, you will gather it by breaking the branches, or rather transplanting the Body of the Tree out of the Ground of its Duty. Have you forgot, Soul blinded with Passion, that I consented to the admittance of your Service and Affection, only in case Iphis (whose yet I am) repudiated me to marry your Sister, and so to cure at once the Honour of that abused Virgin, the Disloyalty of my inconstant Husband, your Love and my own Jealousy? Believe it Calliante, if I find any Assistance, this Precipitation shall cost you dear; and if all humane succours fail me, I will borrow from the courage of my own Heart, and the vigour of my Arm the last remedy of all miseries, which is Death; and sheathing a Dagger in my Bosom, I will reduce all your Designs into Smoak.  
Madam, answered Merinda, by Heaven's favour, you shall not be put to any such extremity: For, if my Father expressly forbids my Brothers and their Companions to act any thing against your Person, the contriver of this Plot will reap nothing but the Shame of having attempted it, and you shall be free from the Displeasure his unadvisedness would have caused to your Thoughts. Serife knowing that it was the powder of injection, which made the Rustics favour that Project, to try their Dispositions, and tempt them by feeling their Pulses on both sides, having put some small Chains of Gold into the Shepherdess' Hands, to make them Bracelets; and showing them several rich jewels, she promised them, that those should be the meanest Recompenses of their fidelity, if by their means that storm blew over her Head; giving them besides, some pieces of Gold to hinder Celian to keep his Sons in order, and some to be distributed among them; Hereupon they became like that corrupt Judge, who caused a Coach (which a Client had given him to pronounce sentence in his favour) to be drawn by Horses of a greater value, which the adverse Party had presented him.  
Whilst this was in agitation on one side, Pomeran (who was, as we have said, jealous of the Palatin's Honour, and who did not greatly relish his Passion for Almeria) entertained in his thoughts the pleasantest imagination that could be devised: He fancied that Serife had an intent to marry Calliante under that disguise, and it being done and passed all remedy, that (he resuming the habit of Palatine) would laugh at their simplicity, as well as the Country-People's. Therefore out of a desire to oblige Mieslas and Modestina, and (as he thought) I phigenes himself (as those do a courtesy to poor Creatures that are frantic, who take the pains to bind them, although they rail and exclaim all the while they are tying) He thought it very requisite, that He with his two companions and Boleslaüs, should oppose in good Earnest that Imaginary Rape; and to the end they might the more securely effect their intention, it was not held improper to require the Justice of the Place's succour.  
The Evening being come, every one stood upon his Guard; Serife not only stirred not abroad, but refused the entrance of her Chamber to Calliante; Celian watched like the Hesperian Dragon over his Treasure; His Daughters were set Sentinels, to call for help upon the least alarm; the Swains being overcome by the Commands of Celian, and presents which Serife sent them, pretended difficulties, and stood still with their Arms across; and the Gentlemen were resolved to preserve Serife; Hereupon Calliante feigning to be in an excessive Rage, fell to vaporing with the Countrymen, thundered out divers threats against their baseness, called them treacherous Villains for failing him in the only time he had need of their help, and vomited all the bitterest terms that Despair doth use to suggest in like occurrences.  
But the hour of Rest summoning them to retire, they all continued for a while in a sad silence, every one allowing the more liberty to his Thoughts, the less he gave his Tongue; until Pomeran, esteeming it necessary, to speak in that extremity, thus began; Almeria, it is now time to quit that Mask, we are not Men to be cheated as you imagine, content yourself with having ravished the Heart of Iphis by the Charms, which his Passion makes him find in that little Beauty, which appeareth in your Face, and seek not to rob his legitimate Spouse of his Body; He cannot be yours until his first bonds be dissolved, which he hath so publicly and solemnly sworn never to violate; greater Ladies, than you can ever hope to be, pretend to his alliance, if that first Marriage could be declared void. Do not think to inchant us, or surprise the Palatine by your artificial Stratagems; For, we are resolved with the peril of incurring his disfavour, and losing our own Lives, courageously to hinder your Design of making yourself his Wife; be satisfied with the part you have in his Affections, without aspiring farther, unless you have a mind to see a strange disorder, and humane Justice as well as the Divine opposed against your Practices.  
Calliante concluded by this Discourse, pronounced with a grave and settled Countenance, that Pomeran was seriously and really deceived. Therefore to entangle him the faster in his Net, he replied: My Honour is so deeply engaged in this business, that I must die or bring it to perfection, nothing but Marriage can make me Repararation; Iphis hath plighted me his Faith, being in full capacity of Understanding & Self-disposall, whereas that which you pretend was forced, and in an Age so tender, that he knew not what he promised; therefore I maintain that he is more Mine than Modestina's, and Iphis is able to justify his engagement to Me in despite of all your endeavours and contradictions.  
These expressions were like Oil cast upon the Fire of that Indignation, which was kindled in the Genlemen's Hearts. So they grew to high Words, then to Threats, afterwards to Exclamations; Iphis was named aloud, Almeria likewise. Hereupon the Countrymen that were in the next room, sending their looks through the crannies, and leaning their Ears to the Wall, suspected there was some deceit in the disguisement of those unknown persons; and Antalcas reflecting upon Serife's resemblance of Iphis, and besides hearing Calliante called by the Name of Almeria, he presently concluded that Calliante was ALMERIA and Serife IPHIS, which filled those Rusticks Heads with such strange imaginations, that no sleep could seize upon them for that Night.  
Scarce had the bashful Harbinger of the Day saluted the edge of the Horizon, when Pomeran (who had not closed his Eyes) leaving his Companions as Guards upon Calliante, went to the Justice of the place to require succour for the preventing of a violence intended against a Lady of quality. The Officers of Justice in villages are a pretty sort of People; For, Ignorance having predominance there, the Dominical Letter is less known than the Golden Number, so that their Rule is Money, and the Level of their Justice is this Maxim of Lawmakers', I give thee 'cause thou givest me, and Do thou for me, and I'll do for thee. The Springs which make this Engine move are of quick- Silver, The first thing they ask is, who is plaintiff? the next, who must pay us? and before hand, like true Executioners of Justice. Those petty Tribunals are the ruin of the People; and whereas true Justice is to give every Man his own, These have the trick to rob every one of what he hath: For, those thirsty Leeches suck indifferently the good blood and the bad.  
Pomeran having spared nothing that might induce these to assist him in that Action (which he thought very important) they went, as the Grecian Orator said, to a Golden harvest. First they seized upon Calliante and the Rustics, charging Celian with Serife, seeming in this execution as inflexible as Rhadamanthus: But it is sufficiently known that in the Country, one hand rubb's the other as well as in Cities, that partly by interest, partly by Favour, and for respects of Parentage, the Eyes of Justice are usually blinded, as the brightness of the Sun is dimmed by the interposition of Mists and Clouds. In what part soever it be, a Stranger is always more to blame than an inhabitant of the place. The Country men only saluted the inside of the Prison, and were presently released upon Bail, but Calliante found that place according to the description of the pious Trojan's descent into Avernus, where the entrance was easy, but the coming out very difficult. Such are the Scales of humane judgements, while one is up the other is down, never even.  
The Rustics incensed with this affront, and sufficiently instructed by what they had heard the Night before, of the Cheat which had been put upon them, resolved to be revenged, and to that end presented a Petition to their Justice, desiring that those Gentlemen and the Lady also might be imprisoned, urging that they were persons disguised, and who under habits different from those of their condition, were come thither to plot and engage them in some dangerous Design; Moreover, that they had assumed habits contrary to their Sexes against the Laws of the Land and Modesty, and that upon farther search it would appear, that Calliante was a Woman and Serife a Man; which, they said, they would maintain with the hazard of losing their Lives and Goods. This put their wise Judges to a Nor-plus, yet they were not much troubled at it; For, seeing these contradictions they promised themselves good Fishing in that troubled Water, and as the Raven in the Fable, seeing a Dog and a Wolf fight, said, that whosoever had the Victory, he should be sure of a prey; So, by this Debate they hoped to fill their Purses, being resolved to take with both Hands.  
Herupon Order was given for the securing of their persons; The Commons of the Village assembled in such multitudes, that what could three or four Gentlemen do in such an hubbub, unless by resisting, make themselves be Butchered by ignoble Hands? Besides, Serife (who willingly submitted herself) making them signs to do the like; flattering herself that only by pronouncing the name of IPHIGENES, she should dissipate all that rabble, as a great Eagle Scatter's a flight of Pigeons when she stoops among them.  
To be short, they were all Apprehended and Committed, but to several rooms, which troubled Serife not a little (who thought she should have been put with Calliante) and cast the rest of the Gentlemen into strange perplexities; And Boleslaüs, (though he spoke not all he thought) could not refrain from saying as he passed by Serife: Madam, you see into what troubles your Passion hath brought us, now it concerned you to take your measure so as to draw us out of this Dungeon by your power, whereinto we are cast for your Pleasure. Serife knew not well construe these words of Boleslaüs; For, respecting his wisdom as she ought, having always found her success as evil when she rejected his Counsels, as advantageous when she followed them, and gathering by his looks and tone of voice, that he spoke seriously, her thoughts were in no small perplexity by this alarm, which seemed a presage of the extremity she should suffer by that imprisonment. But the short time she had to reflect upon his advertisement, and the violence of her desire to be with Calliante, caused the balance of her judgement to incline to the worst side, suffering herself to be immured in that labyrinth, whence those Monsters (the corrupt formalities which so disfigure the fair Face of Justice) opposed her enlargement more than she imagined.  
Their examinations were taken severally, which had as little conformity to each other, as the sable Mantle of Night to the azure robe of Heaven in a clear Day. Calliante said he was a Man, and being asked if it was not he, who not long before, being in a Woman's habit, went under the Name of Almeria, he answered, Yes: This raised a general laughter, as if he had been an Hermaphrodite.  
Serife denied that She was Iphis, protesting that she was a Woman; and her deposition was the less believed, because true.  
Pisides fearing to displease Iphis, said, that he knew not what that Lady was, but he was Iphis humble servant, and that Iphis was a Man of such quality, that they should find he had power to Judge his Judges, and punish that Country with Fire and Sword, if they did Him the least injury; Being demanded what the Quality of that Iphis was, he answered, that he had Age and Wisdom enough to satisfy them himself: Being urged to declare his own Condition, he told them, he was a Gentleman of the retinue of that same Iphis: Being asked why he had so disguised himself, to pass my time (answered he) and please him that commanded me.  
Argal, in stead of answering to their interrogatories, laughed at his Examiner's; to their threaten he returned Bravadoes (which had suited better with a Man in Liberty, than a Prisoner) and without consideration of his Captivity, speaking like a Resolute Captain, at the head of a gallant Party of Horse, that had command to cut those Rogues in pieces, he had nothing but Fire, Sword, Slaughter and Revenge in his Discourse.  
Pomeran, more serious and temperate, answered with much more Modesty and Reservedness, and judging that a brave Spirit ought to say nothing but the truth, he told them really his Opinion, and what he esteemed aught to be said for the Honour of Serife, in these words; Gentlemen, it is not good handling a burning Coal, nor an Iron red hot without Tongues, you have Him in your Hands, in whose you are, and who hath the power to Exercise an horrible Revenge upon you, if you do him the least Displeasure. I advertise you that this Lady whom you have imprisoned, and who hath given herself the Name of Serife, is your Palatine IPHIGENES, whom the love of Almeria hath thus transformed; and Almeria is no other than Calliante, who hath made those People (that have caused us to be put here) believe he was her Brother, but I can assure you he is the same Almeria, who is likewise a Gentleman of quality. I confess this Changing of  is against the Laws; but these Laws are but like Spider's Webs, which catch only the smaller Flies, Great persons (whose recreations are Extraordinary) are exempted from their Rigour: For mine own particular I am a Gentleman of the Palatine's train, who being come with Him into these Woods to take my pleasure in Hunting, to comply with his humour, did fit myself with this Peasant's habit, not thinking fit to leave him whilst he amused himself in the conversation of this Creature whom he Love's. It concerns you to make your benefit of my Deposition, which will serve you as an Advertisement, if you make the right use of it; if not, it will prove the presage of a grand Destruction, that will befall this Place, in case you should be so unadvised as to attempt any thing that may incense him, who is able to ruin You utterly.  
Those that have gotten the repute of Liars, are so unhappy as not to be believed when they speak Truth; Pomeran seeming to speak more wisely than the rest, was held to be the greatest Fool, and his Predictions were as little regarded, as those of Cassandra by the Inhabitants of Troy.  
Boleslaüs being last of all to Answer, desired to speak in private with him that was to examine him, and (knowing that nothing was impossible nor impenetrable by the Power of God) dazzled his Eyes with some pieces in hand, and the promise of a greater sum in case he qualified that business, and restored to liberty so many Persons of Honour, who were not accused for any crime, and at the worst could be convinced only of a piece of Youthful folly.  
The Judge, who went in as fierce as a Lion, came out again after this Conference as gentle as a Lamb, having promised Boleslaüs to let them all out by the golden Gate; but for the more clear Escape it would be requisite that they should make themselves a Bridge of Silver.  
This done, for Forms sake he examined Him again and the rest in the Presence of their Accusers and Adversaries, whose Hearts were ready to fly out of their Mouths for joy, to see themselves triumphant over those that would have affronted them. All their answers were so ambiguous, and their ambiguity so different, that it was no less difficulty to expound them than those ancient Oracles, which had several Faces and divers Senses. In sum, there was nothing said, whereon they could build any conjecture.  
At length, these Gentlemen asked leave to write to Serife, that by her authority she might deliver them out of trouble: This was granted, upon condition that the Judge first saw their Letters, who found sport enough in the diversity of their styles. For one called her Madam, another Sir, the third My Lord, which made the doubt greater; and so puzzled those thick-sculled fellows, that they could not devise what to censure. Those Officers of Justice, like Surgeons and Physicians (whose profit is by tedious sicknesses and wounds that are a long time healing) thought by protracting this business to make themselves all rich. But whilst our Prisoners are learning Patience in its true school, let us see what is acted more seriously upon the Theatre of the World; and how these passages were but a shadow, and a weak representation of that which passed, contrary to Iphigenes knowledge, in places, where he had interest, and reason to preserve more tenderly his Reputation.  
It is a frequent observation of Historiographers, that before Wars (which are God's Scourges) begin in any Country, there are seen certain signs which serve for presages of Civil Dissensions, as terrible Meteors, Apparitions, and Armies seeming to join Battle in the Air. These Rural recreations which we have here represented, were in like manner the forerunners of the troubles, and divers For tunes which attended Iphigenes, as will appear in the sequel of this Narration. The Actions of great Persons, and of those who are placed like Luminaries in the Orbs of eminent Charges, can be no more kept hidden than the Light; which (in how close a place soe'er it be) discover's itself by sending its Rays, and Splendour through some little hole or cranny. The Palatine's disguisement could not be long disguised at Plocens; What he thought to do in private, was said openly; what he practised in the secret retreats of the Forest, was the common table-talk in the City, either by the indiscretion of his own Huntsmen, or the Relation of some of Celian's Neighbours. In sum, he could not keek his Fire so close but that it was discovered by its smoke. An ignominious report is like a spot of Oil, which increaseth as incessantly as insensibly. The Court was already filled with these Rural Affections of Iphigenes, and (as the least failings of Favourites are sifted and aggravated by their enviers) Heaven knows with what Glosses they adorned this simple Text. Every one censured him according to their humours; Some pitied, others fed their Envy with his folly: Only the King could not believe so extreme an oversight of him, whom he had always found so extraordinary discreet beyond what could be expected from his years. His Calumniators without considering that this Report might be false, published it for an evident truth with all the amplifications their Malice could suggest. But among so many Objects that were taken with the presence of Iphigenes, none being enamoured comparably to the Princess Respicia, you may imgaine with what pleasure her Ears received this news, what a multitude of confused thoughts immediately assembled in her brain. She grew exceedingly impatient concerning her expeditions from Rome, (which, according to the Form and Matter of their Seal, go but with Leaden Feet;) this occurrence redoubled her longing, and set a spur in her Heart, which pricked her to know a truth no less than she feared to find it. She laboured all she could at Court to smother this report; but what could her Tongue do alone against so many Mouths opened to Detraction? As for Mieslas, the interest he had in his Son's reputation cast him into a rage not easily to be expressed, hearing in what manner it was wounded; And he resolved to apply such remedies as his Prudence should inform him to be most convenient. For, to undertake as many quarrels as there were scandals, would have been a labour more difficult than that of Hercules against the Hydra. But as Mischiefs seldom come alone, another trouble fell upon the neck of this, which put him into no less distemper than the former.  
If the news of this Pastoral Love of Iphigenes disturbed the Mind of the Princess Respicia, assoon as nimble Fame had dispersed it in Podolia, and conveyed it to Modestina's Ears, she was possessed with so enraged a Jealousy, that without the Hope she had of escaping by some industry out of Prison, to go seek her Husband, and tear him out of those Arms unworthy to embrace him, She had doubtless by some desperate wound forthwith set a period to both Life and Pain. She had no sooner framed the Design of going to him, at what rate and in what manner soever it was, but she began to think of effecting it by corrupting some of her Keepers. It was in vain, she knew, to offer to tempt her Governess Perpetua (she being too rigorous an observer of Mieslas his Tyrannical commands:) Therefore she cast her Eyes upon a young Youth (Son to some Officer of the Castle) who being about her growth, and having yet not the least sign of any Beard in his Face, might be taken for a Woman, if his habit had been suitable.  
After she had gained this young Keeper, by her Presents and Promises that the Palatine, her Husband should advance his Fortunes, She being covered with a Suit of His, he found the means by favour of the dusky Evening to convey her safely out of the Castle, and having provided, a quarter of a League off, a good Horse for her, and another for himself, he brought her at length to Plocens, by the crossest and least-beaten ways he could pick out. If the excess of her Affection, had not been accompanied with an extreme Justice, I should be loath to excuse her Action, or make her appear in such manner as might give Birth to any scandalous censure. But who can with reason blame a Wife that follows her Husband, to take him out of the Arms of an Adulteress? unless he will likewise accuse Marriage itself, whose Law is such, that the Husband hath not the power of his Body, but the Wife; as reciprocally the Person of the Wife is not here's, but her Husband's, on whom she absolutely depends.  
Being arrived at Plocens, she fitted herself with handsomer and richer , than those which she brought out of her House of bondage: And, lest Menochius (so was her Conductor named) should be known by any of Iphigenes' followers, that might have seen him in Podolia, she bought him a Woman's habit, and charged him to stay in the Inn, whilst she went like the Man about the City, to inquire what news was there of her Iphigenes; which she found but too conformable to the report she had heard in her Prison. But she, having much resemblance of her Brother Liante's favour, was presently taken for him by some of Iphigenes followers, who took particular notice of her Lodging, thinking to oblige their Master at his return, by telling him that his Brother-in-law was there. The poor Lady was much in pain to know in what Forest her Husband was with his Shepherdess, yet she durst not be too inquisitive, for fear of discovering herself; Besides, that business was so closely carried, that although this Endymion was known to be in the Forest with his Diana, yet very few could give instructions where to find him; So that to engage herself in the Labyrinth of those intricate Woods, (wherewith that Province was abundantly covered) had been the way to lose herself rather than find what she sought.  
Whilst she was in this perplexity, Mieslas (having received Informations out of Podolia of her escape) arrived at Plocens, imagining that she would have posted thither to her Husband, as a Straw flies to Amber. This tidings troubled Respicia no less than Mieslas; For, she apprehended, like Death, the consummation of that Marriage, which was the Death of all her Hopes. The Amoretta's of Iphigenes with that Shepherdess gave no small alarm to her Heart, yet esteeming them only a liberty of Youth, and rather to divert his Melancholy than out of any desire to cast himself away upon a creature so much below his Quality, the tumults of her Mind were the sooner pacified; But upon notice of Modestina's flight, Passion pleading her interest, she departed from the Court, within short time after Mieslas; and notwithstanding all the speed he could make, she arrived in a manner assoon as he at Plocens.  
Mieslas was no sooner alighted at his Son's Palace, but enquiring for him he learned that he had been near a Month lost in the Forest; but no body could tell him any other particulars, than that having found a Shepherdess which pleased his Fancy, he had dismissed all his train, reserving only two or three of his familiarest Friends to bear him company in his Courtship. To find out where he was thus fettered with the Chains of his own Will, was a difficult matter; For, he had shifted shape and places so often, that it had been as hard to follow his steps, as the strain of a Stag that doubles and uses all his wiles to deceive the pursuing Hounds. But in stead of seeking him, whom he had no hope to find, he was informed of one, whom he did not seek.  
For, one of Iphigenes domestics (thinking nothing) said to him, My Lord, though the Palatine be not here, his Brother-in-law is in this City, expecting (I believe) my Lord's return. What? Liante? (replied Mieslas amazed) where is he? The simple fellow told him his Lodging, and offered to go call him to him, if he pleased to command him: But lest he should not obey, take two or three of my servants with you, (said Mieslas) that if he be unwilling you may bring him perforce. You may imagine with what astonishment was poor Modestina seized, seeing come into her Chamber (when she least suspected them) four men armed with Sword and Pistol, which commanded her to go before the Lord Mieslas Palatine of Podolia. Who, I? (said she) what's his will with me? My Lord Liante, replied the chief of them, understanding at his arrival, that you expected here his Son's return, he judged it more fit for you to stay in his House (which, you know, is at your command) than to lodge in an Inn, and I am confident that Iphigenes at his coming will acknowledge it. Gentlemen, answered the imaginary Liante, if that be all, I had rather enjoy my Liberty in an Inn, than be a Prisoner in his House, as he hath kept me already too long; I pray thank him for his courteous proffer, and tell him, that I left not his House with an intent to return any more with my good will; He hath put us so in his House, that he hath drawn our House into his, and not content to deprive us of our Estates, he will yet triumph over our Liberty, which is the greatest happiness on Earth. Sir (said he, to whom Mieslas had given the command) do not take it so, we have order to carry you to him alive or dead, be you willing or unwilling, and you had better go quietly with us than oblige us to bind you, and drag you along the streets, for we are resolved to execute faithfully what he hath enjoined us. Is it thus, answered the disguised Liante, that you treat persons of my Quality? Let's go then, since I must follow the Destinies, and submit to the Law of Necessity; I hope his Majesty being informed of this Violence will do me Justice, and deliver me speedily out of the Hands of his Tyranny. So they went to the Palace, where Mieslas had given order to imprison Liante in a close Chamber, with a strong Guard, until he should be further resolved what to do with him. He would not suffer him to come into his presence, lest his tender Age, and supplications should kindle any spark of pity in his inhuman breast.  
Next Morning, lest the entreaties or authority of Iphigenes in his own Palatinate, should restore him to Liberty, his Cruelty suggested to his Fancy the most barbarous resolution that e'er was harboured in the heart of Man, to be quit of that innocent Creature (whose Guardian he was, and whom he ought to have cherished as the apple of his Eye.) But to what will that execrable hunger of Riches, and the stings of Ambition not transport men's thoughts? In Histories we find some examples of Fathers and Mothers, who renouncing all interest of Nature, have either murdered or made blind their own children for the Jealousy of ruling. What doth this savage Sarmatian to extinguish absolutely in the race of his Predecessor in the Palatinate of Podoha, the hope of Progeny, and by that means make all the inheritance sure to his own Family? He gave order to deliver the Prisoner into the hands of certain bloody Villains (fully disposed to the execution of his Barbarisms) commanding them to carry him back to his Prison in Podolia, and make him an Eunuch by the way, or kill him in case he would not suffer that affront, which is the most sensible that any mortal could receive.  
These rugged Executioners led away the supposed Liante, threatening him with Death, to make him condescend to suffer that indignity by the desire of Life: But before his departure they bade him examine his Conscience, and prepare himself for a journey, longer than he imagined, not only from Plocens into Podolia, but out of this World into the next.  
Some of Iphigenes followers having intelligence of this Tyranny, and abhorring it, were enraged they could not prevent it, and he that had been the imprudent Instrument of the poor Gentleman's being apprehended, was ready to be his own Executioner, fearing the just indignation of his Master, when he should come to the knowledge of so unjust and horrid a Fact. Among the rest, Arcade having notice thereof (thinking to oblige his Master by advertising him, and desiring to save the miserable Liante's Life) presently took Horse, and road with all possible speed unto that part of the Forest, where few Days before he had met Iphigenes, and served him under the name of Serife, where not finding him, after much inquiry he learned the way to Celian's Village.  
The report of those Stranger's imprisonment being dispersed all over that part of the Country, at his arrival in the Village, he asked to speak with the Lord Palatine, about some business of great importance. At the first the People laughed at him, thinking that his coming had been some new Imposture, and illusion to dazzle the Eyes of their Judges, and hinder them from doing Justice. At length he spoke so much Reason, that they took his Folly for Discretion; and to act with more assurance, they apprehended him and put him into another room of the Prison, to hear more at leisure his depositions. Wherein he declared, that he demanded a Nobleman, habited like a Gentlewoman, who made herself be called Serife for private reasons which he knew not; That this Nobleman was his Master, and that this Master was Palatine of Plocens, named Iphigenes: That there was happened since his absence an occurrence which required his presence, So necessarily, that it concerned no less than the Life of one of those persons, whom he esteemed the dearest in the World.  
This relation wakened the Judge's attention; For, Arcade spoke so seriously, that they could not think he came to deceive them. Yet before they told him that Serife was in Prison, they led him to Boleslaüs' Chamber, who asked him at the first sight, What? Arcade is my Lord out of Prison? doth he take pleasure to make us lie languishing here? For my part I comprehend not his meaning, but I find no Felicity in such Pastimes, I prithee bid him leave off these Fopperies speedily, at least if he will oblige me.  
How (answered Arcade) should I tell him that? I know not where he is; these People have made me a Prisoner, I know not whether it be by his Order or by Enchantment, but I am sure there is a business in hand at Plocens (for which I am come hither) that require's none of these delays, unless he will suffer his Brother-in Law to lose his Life. What? replied Boleslaüs much troubled, have they sent Calliante to Plocens? what talk you of Calliante? (said Arcade) I know no such Man, but I say Liante my Master's Wive's Brother. That is the same I mean, answered Boleslaus, and whom they have put in Prison here with us. I know not, said Arcade, wherefore you are Prisoners, unless it be to please the Palatine's Fancy, but I cannot conceive what pleasure there is in keeping you penned up thus: Is it not that he may have more liberty to dally in the Woods with his Diana? Malediction light upon her, she is cause that my Master is dishonoured, and his reputation lost at Court, and all over Polonia. There's no other discourse at Plocens, but of his Loves; and no body knowing the certainty, Every one speaks according to his own Fancy.  
He is so far (said Boleslaus) from giving any such command, that I tell thee, both He and Liante, with Pomeran, Pisides, Argal and myself are all Prisoners here in several Chambers; whether the Palatine take pleasure in it, or commanded it so, I cannot say, But we have been now five or six Days in this trouble, neither can we yet tell what these People intent to do with us. And I know less, Answered Arcade, how they mean to deal with me, whom they have likewise apprehended for no other crime, that I know, than for demanding to speak with my Master. But in earnest, Boleslaus, are you a Prisoner, or is this still to continue the stratagem you know of, and for which I was sent away, because I could not dissemble and act my part so gravely as I should?  
I protest seriously, said Boleslaus, there is no jest in what I tell thee, and I have almost lost my Reason and Temper in these fopperies. The Palatine hath brought us into these broils, but I do not see how he will be able to enlarge us again suddenly, he being in restraint as well as we. How? a Prisoner, said Arcade, did the King command him to be committed? No, not the King said Boleslaus, but these Peasants, under the name of Serife, and with him (I tell thee) they have imprisoned all us that attended Him.  
What? answered Arcade, is he then yet in the lady's habit he had when I left him, and his Lady (by consequence) in Man's, and each in a several Prison? But would he be committed to Prison, without disclosing his Quality? Nay more, said Boleslaus, now that he is in Prison he denieth himself to be what he is, and says he is what he is not.  
This is the strangest fancy, answered Arcade, that ever I heard of, and which will produce new Discourses, that will not redound to his Honour. However I must speak with him, to tell him that he must speedily take some order to secure his Brother-in-law, whom Mieslas (who is now at Plocens) hath delivered into the hands of certain fellows, that will take away his Life or (at least) his Honour, if they be not prevented by some sudden remedy. Hitherto, said Boleslaus, thou hast spoken like a discreet Man, but now I perceive thou ravest; For, I know where Liante is and am sure that he cannot be in Mieslas hands.  
Their reasoning might have continued long enough,  they could have penetrated each other's meaning, Boleslaüs not daring to speak all he knew, for fear of displeasing Iphigenes, and never being able to imagine the adventures of Modestina.  
The Judges and Commons of the Village, who heard all this Dialogue, knew not what else to think, than that of all the Fools that they had seen in their Lives, they never saw any so senseless. After this they led him to Pomeran, Pisides and Argal, whose discourse was yet more extravagant; For, they knowing not Liante, spoke altogether of an Almeria and a Calliante, names which Arcade never had heard: Insomuch that the Judges could pick nothing out of their various Speeches, than cause of laughter.  
But when he was brought into Calliante's Presence, he began to bless himself, his Heart panting as if he had seen a Ghost. For, he could not persuade himself that without Negromancy he could appear before him there, having seen him (as he thought) at Plocens. At length, My Lord Liante, said he, is it you whom I see, or hath some Spirit borrowed your shape? certainly you cannot be in two places at once, and I am as sure that I saw you at Plocens within these two days, as that your likeness now appears before my Eyes; Either that which I saw at Plocens must be an illusion, or this which here troubleth my sight. Yet methink's it is your voice, which I hear, said he (Liante having answered him) But in regard Magicians by their Diabolical Art, can counterfeit that as well as Faces, give me leave to touch you, that I may know it is your Body. Which Liante having permitted; This is Flesh and Bones, said he, this is no Spirit certainly; I will rather believe that the other which I did only see, and that at some distance too, was but a Vision, whereby the more than barbarous cruelty of Mieslas will be deceived, and I am glad for your sake, that you are out of his power; for, if you were in the place of that Ghost of yours, which he hath put into the hands of some no less inhuman than himself, I should esteem you the most unfortunate Gentleman upon Earth.  
These words having bred in Liante's Spirit a curiosity to know what cruelty Mieslas intended to his Person: Arcade told him what had passed at Plocens, and that it was the main cause of his coming into that Desert, to acquaint Iphigenes with that design of Mieslas. You may imagine what an alarm this made in Liante's Heart; with what impatience he was presently seized to see himself at Liberty, that he might fly before that storm, and avoid the clutches of that rigorous Sarmatian. Fear, which made him tremble at every shadow, bred a suspicion in his thoughts, that all this Pastoral Comedy had been invented by Iphigenes, only to imp the wings of Time, and amuse him until Mieslas had apprehended him, and sent him back to his prison; there to force him to suffer the affront whereof Arcade had given him notice. These imaginations put him beyond all temper; and, ready to run into despair, he fulminated terrible threats against those Clowns, if they released him not speedily.  
These apprehensions so violent, and sovisible, gave birth to divers sinister Opinions in the Judges and Countrymen there present, making them suspect him for some notorious Criminal, or some dangerous Person; in regard Arcade talked of murdering or reducing him to an incapacity of aspiring to Marriage: yet the strong impression they had Calliante was Almeria, and really a Woman, made them revoke all this story into doubt, as a fiction invented to delude their Senses. Insomuch that in stead of giving Liante any hope of a sudden enlargement, they made him closer Prisoner, having received no other consolation by Arcade's visit, than the assurance of Mieslas being at Plocens, and of the horrible desire he had to commit in his person the Murder of his Posterity.  
Thence Arcade was conducted to Serife's Lodging, who after a long Paradoxical Conference (being certainly informed of her Father's arrival in that Palatinate, by whom she had no will to be seen in that equipage, and a Prisoner to those base People, whom (according to the authority of Palatines in Polonia) with the least word she could have sent to the Gallows) raising the tone of her voice in a more grave and Majestic manner, than became the quality of a Prisoner, she thus spoke to her Judges; Gentlemen, dispatch quickly your formalities, and do me Justice, I begin to be weary of this Prison: Whether I am Man or Woman, is nothing material to any of you. Besides, I believe you can lay no Crime to my Charge, nor Calliante's, who for pastime only, not with any ill intent, conspired with those Swains (whom you have set at liberty) to carry me away, whereof I was advertised and contented, what displeasure soever I expressed. Do not make me entreat you twice to discharge me; For, if you compel me to discover who I am, there is not he among you, but will tremble at my very name, being able to render you of Judges Criminals, of Apprehenders Prisoners, and send you presently, if I please, from the Gaol to Execution.  
These words she pronounced with so courageous and Masculine an accent, that notwithstanding her delicate Complexion and Feminine dress, they began to persuade their fancies that she was more than a Woman. But if Hercules could not resist two, what should she have done against so many? It is the natural disposition of Clowns, and such Mechanic Souls, as compose the Lees of the People, to be insulting, and as inflexible as Lions or Tigers, when they have the power in their own hands; as they are like mere Cows and Sheep, when they are in subjection. They scoffed at Serife's words, and, according to the custom of such Brutes, they imparted their scorn to the Echoes of that solitude by their loud shouting.  
After which, one more impudent than the rest, replied, Master or Mistress, (What shall I call you?) What or whosoever you be, we shall teach you to speak otherwise, and not to affront People in this manner. You must not think to rule us, but to be ordered by us, who have power to keep you here until your Process be ended, or discharge you at our pleasure; we will teach you to obey, not command, and if need be, we want neither Bolts nor Manacles for your Feet and Hands, nor yet Gags for your Mouth, to the end you may know another time how to respect Officers of Justice. If there be any Magical operations in all this, the illusions will cease by the authority of the Judges, and we shall so conjure those Spirits, that in spite of their resistance we shall bring the truth to light, and make it appear to your confusion.  
These words having transported Serife into a more violent fury than ever Anger had kindled in her Breast, she was ready to declare her true Name and Quality; and Arcade likewise was much tempted to tell that saucy Clown, that he should dear repent that Language; (yet he forbore, for fear of disobliging him, whom he desired to serve, and whose indignation he dreaded no less than Thunder;) But without further delay they made him quit the room, and having ne'er the more cleared their doubts by this confronting of the parties, they left Serife to entertain her choleric thoughts, and re-inclosed Arcade betwixt four walls, threatening to torture him if he told them not the naked Truth.  
The like Message was sent to the other Prisoners, and by the Shepherdesse's means came to Serife's Ears, which increased her Rage to a resolution of consuming all that Country with Fire and Sword. But there was no remedy, she must endure the bitterness of that Pill, not having then the Power to declare her Grievances to any but the Walls of her Prison, as deaf, as her brutal Judges were inexorable.  
Whilst the rest of the Prisoners, alarmed with the barbarous intentions of the Rustics, consume their Spirits in impatient suming, threatening, and meditating most remarkable revenges: The subtle Bolestaüs (who knew that Needles are not thredded by violent strokes, and that Birds being fallen into the Fowler's 'gins entangle themselves the worse, the more they struggle) having preferred a Petition to those Country-Judges, full of Modest & Submissive Terms, besides Promises of revealing great matters to them, they went to his Chamber, where speaking in private to the same Officer, (whose hand he had already oiled) and having disposed his Ears to give a favourable audience by replenishing the hollow of his hooked hand with Crowns; Sir (said he) much mischief may arise by this business, if it be discussed by rigour of Justice, in regard it concerns the Honour and Life of Persons of eminent Quality, who may resent it in an high nature; and nothing can fall to your share by the way of Process, but perchance some Forfeitures and Fees, to make you be indulgent to those that prosecute; Were it not better for you to oblige so many Persons of Honour, who are now in your Power, and gain four times as much?  
The Judge (who hungered and thirsted after Justice, and who (like another Leviathan) could have swallowed all the Golden Sand of Tagus without difficulty, and let a whole Jordan of Silver run down his throat without slacking his thirst) opened. with his Ears, his Heart to this Proposition, and Judas-like, answered, What will you give me, and I will set you free? Whereupon they agreed upon a sum, which (though immense,) Boleslaüs promised to make him good, knowing that ere long he should make him vomit that Dose hotter than he swallowed it, and that the Gallows should be the salary of his extorting Avarice: But that's not all (said the Judge) to promise, For, we never condemn or quit any but according to what is evidently proved and delivered. I have sworn never to play upon ticket with Gentlemen, I will not open any door unless I see the golden Key, and the Money told out upon a Table.  
Sir, answered Boleslaus, I mean it so, and I'll assure that the sum you shall receive shall be all in good pieces and down weight: But you know I cannot coin them here, either give me leave to go fetch them, or procure me a trusty Messenger, who shall receive them upon a Letter, which I hope you will permit me to write. As for going out (replied the Judge) that is a thing I cannot condescend unto; For, Prisoners are like Birds which Sing no more when out of the Cage; and Nightingales which are observed never to warble, but in the Nest, where they hatch their Eggs. But for writing I am well contented to permit; So that I see your Letter: For, I am no Man to endure any treacherous dealing. I desire no better than that you should read what I writ (said Boleslaus) For, my intentions are no other than just and honest.  
Then, Paper being brought, he traced some lines to a friend of his at Plocens, desiring him to send upon sight thereof the sum, which he had indented to deliver that Justice-seller: And at the same time he wrote another note to the Captain of Iphigenes Guards, thus; It is of no less concernment than the Life and Honour of our Master (who being fallen into the hands of Thiefs, is here imprisoned by them) that you should come speedily with your troop, whither this bearer shall direct you, make him give you right Instructions, by setting a Pistol to his Throat: But let not Mieslas know any thing of your coming, nor of this Accident.  
The first note he shown the Judge, which was according to his own desire, but hide the other in his sleeve. The Judge having perused it, would have sent it away presently; But, said Boleslaüs, without my own Seal it will be of no effect, therefore give me leave to seal it in regard the sum, as you see, is of no small importance. The Judge, thinking he spoke as really as reasonably, gave it him again to close: But in seeming to seal it, he slipped this into the place of the other in his sleeve, (being both of one bigness and made up alike) and having written the superscription, and sealed the later, he delivered it to the Judge with some pieces of Gold to give the Messenger, desiring him to let him go on Horseback, because the business required haste.  
After this golden conference the Judge grew more temperate, he talked no more of torturing upon the Rack, but of releasing the Prisoners, telling the Rustics that all those passages were only tricks of Youth, and that there was nothing to be done in this case, but to plume them like Pigeons, and then let them fly again; and that it was enough to let their Purses blood, and make good cheer at their charge; by which means they would be sufficiently revenged of those, that intended no other evil than to laugh at their simplicity. But he found more repugnance in those savage Souls, than he imagined; For, with one Voice they all cried out, Justice, Justice.  
This troubled the Judge not a little, knowing the brutality of the vulgar People of that Nation. But as he that betray's Justice, may as well betray the Criminals, It is no rare thing for Judges (whose Eyes have been dazzled with the lustre of Gold) to condemn those that corrupted them, not to seem corruptible; and to hid their extortion under a double wickedness. This moved that abominable Minister of Injustice to make use of a most malicious Stratagem, to content that enraged Rabble by satisfying his own avarice. He resolved to condemn to a privy search those persons whose doubtful faces did not by their Chins give evident testimony of being Men. Boleslaüs, whom the Winter of Age had already covered with its Snowy Livery, was exempted from that harsh and shameful sentence; neither were Pomeran, Pisides or Argal concerned in that Decree, the downy shadow on their youthful Checks declaring sufficiently of what Sex they were. Serife and Calliante were the only stumbling-blocks, whose changing of Habits multiplied the Rustics imaginations, and disturbed their Reason; which (what ere befell) he thought should serve to colour his unworthy ACT, adjudging them to very considerable amercements, in case of disobedience.  
This Design he communicated to the Prosecutors, who received it with a general applause and acclamation, conceiving that they could no way have a more sweet and full revenge of their cozening them, then by doing them this affront under the Cloak of Justice. The Order was no sooner drawn, but it was notified to Serife and Calliante.  
Calliante, who esteemed such an indignity much less supportable than Death, threatened to tear in more pieces than the Bacchides did Pentheus, whosoever should approach him for that purpose: But they taking him to be really a Woman, laughed at his weakness, telling him, that they had knocked down Bulls far stronger, and more fierce than he. And the Pharisaical Judge, to seem a modest and courteous Man, let him understand, that he would do him the favour to give him the choice of being searched by Men, if he was a Man, or by Women, if a Woman; whereunto Calliante enraged, said, I will have neither one nor other, let me alone as I am, for if any Women come to me I shall make them ashamed, and if you send any Men, I shall make them feel the strength of my Arms.  
As for Serife, shame and indignation so transported her, that to say which was greatest, were no easy matter. All her Entreaties, Threaten, Protestations that she was a Man and their Palatine, Son to Mieslas, Palatine of Podolia, were to their rude Ears but as chaff before the Wind; and notwithstanding her appealing, the Judge commanded them to execute his Order, without which they could not be satisfied of the Truth; at length, he offered her the same civility as he had to Calliante; to which she returned a like answer, desiring the Judge to cause Her to be strangled rather than condemn Her to an abuse which She must resent as long as She had breath, and whereby Her fury would be incited to a Vengeance, that could not terminate him by the sacking, and absolute ruin of that whole County.  
These high menaces that Clownish multitude answered with loud laughing, pressing her still to choose, otherwise they would proceed to the Execution of the Judge's Ordinance: At length, a Ray of Prudence enlightening her in this extremity, made her Name Celian's two Daughters with their Sister-in-law Belida, hoping to gain them by Gifts, or compel them by force to depose what she listed. These were before appointed to search Calliante; whereunto Merinda was nothing unwilling, Curiosity increasing her desire to know whether that Almeria (whose face was the same as Galliante's, and had raised such tumults in her mind) was Male or Female.  
Boleslaüs and the other Gentlemen knew nothing of these proceed; For, the Judge promised himself, that his Messenger would be returned  night with the sum, for which he had indented with Boleslaüs, and his Sentence being executed upon Serife and Calliante, he should by that means please the Peasants as well as his own covetous humour, and seem just, though his proceed were contrary.  
Serife's Prison being the nearest to Celian's House, the She- Inquisitors came first thither to do their Office. It would be needless to repeat the worthy excuses they made at their entrance, and with what Rustic eloquence they imputed their curiosity to the Justice's constraint, whereby they were forced to an action, which they undertook with no less unwillingness than shame.  
This kindled so much choler in the Heart of the generous Amazon, that Reason could hardly dissuade her Passion from inflicting upon their Bodies a punishment suitable to the baseness of their Souls: But considering that had her Poniard executed her just revenge, the fury of those Peasants would not have been satisfied with less than murdering her, and that the loss of her Life would be seconded with the stain of her Honour (whereof she was chief careful) she harkened to the moderate dictates of Policy, which suggested to her thoughts this stratagem, which took better than she expected.  
It was to rob her Neck, Ears, Hair & Fingers of all the Rings, Chains, and Jewels (wherewith they were splendidly adorned) to fill the Hands, and stop the Mouths of those three Harpies, promising them besides a thousand Crowns a piece, before she went out of Prison, if they would favour her in that connivance.  
The resolution of these Women, whom Weakness and Poverty made inclinable to corruption, staggered at those extraordinary Presents, and large Promises; But (seeming somewhat scrupulous for fear of being punished, if they gave in a false evidence) Serife drawing the Dagger which she wore under her robe, and beginning to brandish it with threats, pronounced in a manlike and courageous manner, so intimidated their low Spirits, that being enticed on the one side with the hope of gain, and seized on the other with fear, they engaged themselves to do and say whatsoever she should command, beseeching her, if they should be discovered, to free them from the severity of the Justice.  
Whereunto Serife thus replied, Let not that trouble you, for the Judge himself (you may tell him) shall have his share of the Cake, I intent more for him than all that I have given and promised you. If you will have a testimony of my being a Man, and the same Iphis whom you have so often seen in the company of Almeria, look not upon the Effeminacy of my Face, but consider the strength of my Arm; with that she shook them so forcibly, that Merinda fell to the ground, and the rest had much ado to keep upon their Feet. By this (continued the stout Virago) you may see what I am, and accordingly you may assure the Judge of my Sex. As for Calliante, what bravadoes soever he makes, believe me, he is a Woman, and the same Almeria whom you have all known already; Therefore if you have any Order to search her content yourselves with my Relation, otherwise in regard she is so robust, and so used to all manly Exercises (for which I love her more than for her Beauty) I fear you will find but a sorry welcome; Wherefore make your Report according to my Declaration, and fear not that I shall make you avouch any thing contrary to the Truth; For witness whereof see the advantages that will redound to you, besides the immortal Obligations that you will acquire upon Iphis and Almeria.  
The Goddess Persuasion with her golden Tongue having enthroned herself by these words in Serife's Mouth, there was not one of the three Searches, but judged this good Office as feasable as reasonable. In this Resolution they went forth, and having met the Judge, with the Swains, who expected their return, they remained some while speechless, counterfeiting as much bashfulness as if they had been seeing some strange business. Which gave some of the Rustics occasion to cry out, Oh! oh! Did not we guests right to say that Lady was a Man? Indeed Master Judge (answered Merinda) it was not so well done of you to scoff in this manner at our simplicity, and send such, as we are, to see Men that laugh at our folly. Then Belida, who being a Married Wife had somewhat more confidence, laughing full mouth, said, By my Soul if that be a Lady, my Husband may be a Lady too; For, I am sure they are both made alike; and turning towards Lupicin, See friend, (said she) upon what employments you send your Wife.  
This made an hooting suitable to the condition of the persons before whom this Comedy was acted. That done, the Judge gave them Order forthwith to go to Calliante. Which they refused with much seeming unwillingness, and far-fetched excuses, until the Judge, holding his gravity of Precedent, iterated his Command, telling them that they must obey the Ordinances of Justice, if not, he knew how to compel them.  
Whereupon replied the crafty Belida, that she was contented to obey, so that she and her Sisters might first confer with him in private. That request being thought too reasonable to be denied, she told him punctually what had passed betwixt them and Serife, and that there was nothing more sure than her being a Man, and Calliante a Woman.  
Then, they shown him the presents they had received of her, besides the promise of three thousand Crowns for themselves, and twice as much for him, if he would be iudulgent in the Execution of that Order.  
This made him as gentle as an Ermine's skin, and open both his Ears to their Proposition; But to enhance his Justice to the highest rate, he resolved to gather with both Hands, as if he had been in a Treasury, in a Mine, or at an Harvest of Gold: Therefore after a little pause, This is not enough (said he to them) We have now before our Eyes the fairest opportunity of enriching ourselves that can be presented, we must take it by the forelock, and beat this Iron whilst it is hot, only, (if you can) be prudent and secret, otherwise in stead of gaining we shall undo ourselves. You are now going to search one that is really a Woman; if the other, who is a Man, being frighted with his Crime and Imprisonment, hath given and promised you so much, what may you not get of her, who will at what rate soever preserve her honour, and free herself from the Infamy and Laughter of all these People? Go then, and manage your business so, that you may get a good fleece off her, and forget not me; For, you know I sit at the Helm, and that all must be done by my Order, their Lives, Honours, Imprisoment, and Liberty being wholly in my Hands: Be sure you take not Promises for Payment, But put Eyes into your Hands to believe what they shall see and receive: For, if you do her the favour not to search her according to the Order, it is but Reason that she should recompense your Courtesy with some remarkable Gratification; Do not quit Her for less than what Iphis hath given and promised you, For, the Favour is greater to Her than Him.  
Being thus instructed, and determined to follow precisely these Instructions, they went, like Commissaries deputed by the Justice, to know of what Category Calliante was. And as a Ship sailes swifter when she is in open Sea, and hath the Wind more full; So the greater hope these Women conceived, and the more their desire of having was increased by the advice of that good Judge, the more eagerly and cheer-fully did they run to execute this second Commission; whereby they hoped to get more than they had done by the former; Neither was their expectation frustrated; For, they were no sooner entered and had made their goodly Speech, but Calliante falling into a Lion-like fury, in stead of speaking, began to answer them with his Hands, making them feel the weight of a Man's Arms. The door, which was locked again, that they might the more secretly, and without scandal perform their Office, gave him better opportunity of pummelling them; For, not being able to run away, they were enforced to endure that storm of blows without shelter. One had her Eyes beaten into her Head with his buffeting, another her Teeth struck out, the third he trampled under his Feet, which was not without their crying out Murder, help, help: But the Peasants, who stayed within hearing, thought it had been Almeria, whom they three were forcing to a Manifestation, which she could not suffer without striving and shame, & in stead of succouring them, they drowned their cries with laughing, till their Lungs were ready to split, and calling out to them, You are three against one, you will overcome her at last; continue, do what the Justice hath commanded you.  
Judge you what leisure this gave Calliante to kick, and beat his Visiters, as if they had been three bars upon an Anvil, and his Fists the Hammers. At length having laid them all under his feet, so tired and sore with blows, that they could hardly breathe, one of them swooned, another feigned herself dead; but Belida, who seeing Calliante draw a Knife which hung at Merinda's Girdle, thought (as it was probable enough) that he meant to cut their Throats; as a Torch that's going out casteth the greater flame, so she in that extremity, summoning all that little Spirit she had left, cried aloud, Lupicin, I am dead, He kill's me, help, help.  
These words made them consider, that indeed they might have need of help, Despair having perchance transported Almeria to some action in her own defence beyond the ordinary strength of a Woman; thereupon they rushed into the room, where they saw two lying like dead bodies on the ground, covered over with their own blood, and Calliante dragging Belida about, with one hand up ready to sheathe the Knife in her bosom.  
It was then no time to consult but to act; They presently made towards Calliante, who flinging that scurvy Woman from him, flew, like a Tiger that enters into an Herd of Deer, among those Rustics. Who ever saw a furious wild Boar foaming with rage, being enclosed in the Toils between the Hunt's men's Spears and the Hound's mouths, make an horrible slaughter, tearing out the bowels of this Dog here, tossing another yonder, fastening his Tusks in an Horse's belly on another side, and trample upon the over-turned Rider; but at length being overpowered with the multitude of Assailers, is enforced to submit to the greater strength; He may imagine the behaviour of Calliante in the midst of that rude company; the first whereof that came near him, received a great stab in his Arm, another a cut o'er the face, others felt the smart of the same Weapon in other places: He fling himself here and there, and sometimes by agility, sometimes by main force, he wrested himself out of their hands, watching still to get to the door; But the throng of those that pressed to come in, rendered the passage impenetrable, which put him into such an agony, as you may imagine, seeing himself ready to be murdered by the hands of those irritated Swains.  
At last having done all that a gallant courage owed to a just defence, so many People fell upon him at once, that they forced him to quit the Knife, and seeing him disarmed and under their Feet, they began, by binding him Hand and Foot, the outrages which they were relolved to make him suffer, devising ignominies and revenges inimaginable against him. But the care they had of the wounded Women, and to recall their affrighted Spirits into their martyred Bodies, made them defer for a while the punishing of Calliante, whom they threatened with no less than a shameful Death.  
The Judge, who came in when all the blows were passed, and the Prisoner fast bound, inveighed highly against Calliante's Rebellion, as contemning and resisting the Order of Justice; and precipitating his Sentence, he said, that nothing could make a sufficient reparation but Death, and if that lewd Hussif were not found to be with Child, that she should be executed the next morning.  
These were the Consolations of the poor Calliante, who being all bruised with blows, besides the pain he received by the Bonds and Chains wherewith he was laden, saw himself upon the point of being Sacrificed to the vengeance of those Savages, whom it is not enough to call Sarmatians to expess their cruelty.  
But as that barbarous Rabble was going to make a shameful Anatomy of the Body of Calliante, in the Opinion they had that he was a Woman, intending the next day to make him endure a torment conformable to their inhuman Dispositions, the whole Village was alarmed on a sudden with the arrival of a great Troop of Horse, that came with great diligence: Before them road a Man with his Arms pinioned, and his Feet bound under the Horse's Belly, as if he had been some Notorious Thief whom the Provost Martial had lately taken.  
The Judge upon notice hereof, (thinking they had been some Officers of Justice) went forth to meet them, to desire their assistance for the Execution of a Prisoner that would have broke the Gaol, and who had wounded divers persons that withstood him. Doubtless, said the Captain, this must be the place: then, turning towards the fellow that was bound, he continued, is not that Prison here, whither we commanded thee to conduct us? Yes Sir, answered he, and there is the Judge, who committed them, and sent me to you from one of the Prisoners to bring the sum of money contained in the Letter.  
At these words the Judge knew his Messenger, and his Conscience accusing him, he was ready to sink with fear, when two or three of them setting their Pistols to his throat, said, Deliver us My Lord quickly, or you are a Dead Man. What Lord? answered he trembling: the Lord Palatine of Plocens whom you have imprisoned here, perchance not knowing him. Hereat a cold sweat overflowing the Judge's Face, seeing that he had brought himself into a Praemunire, and that no less than his Life was concerned; See Gentlemen, said he, if that be he which hath done such havoc in the Prison; Then ten or twelve alighting went in with their Arms in their hands, where Humbertus Captain of the Guards knowing Liante (having seen him often in Podolia) stood amazed, thinking that Mieslas his Executioners had reduced him to that extremity, to force him to suffer the affront, which they were commanded to do him: But seeing none of them, and only the Countrypeople, We shall find (said he to his Companions) that they have given that barbarous Commission to these villainous Boors, holding it too base an Office for them to execute.  
Thereupon He said to the Peasants; Friends, what dye you intent to do with this Gentleman? why do you use him thus cruelly? It is no Man, replied one of the Clowns, but a mad Woman, who had almost spoiled us all with a Knife, there never was any such Fury in the World. Humbertus thought that was an illusion, hearing him style a Woman, one whom he saw in Man's , and whom he held to be a Man; Signior Liante, said he to the Prisoner lying on the ground, is it you, and do you not know me?  
How should I know you, replied he, that do not know myself? For, all these People will make me believe per force that I am a Woman, although I am most certain of the contrary. Infallibly, said Humbertus to the others with him, this poor Gentleman is become distracted, not being able to preserve his Judgement entire, after that horrible affront which they have made him suffer; For, being no longer a Man, he denies that he is a Woman, which indeed he is not however.  
Then speaking again to Liante, Sir, said he, who brought you into this place? my own foolish Will, said Liante. Who put you in Prison and committed you into the power of these People? Iphigenes, answered Liante, I know not whether his intention be to rid Himself of Me thus.  
This made Humbertus presently conjecture, that Iphigenes had an hand in the Plot with Mieslas, to purchase to himself Liante's whole Estate by virtue of his Marriage with Modestina. Therefore not to dive any further into the business before so many hearers, he left Liante under the Guard of two of his company, telling them, that he must first see the Palatine, or speak with Boleslaus.  
So going forth he seized upon the Judge, and told him, that he must show him where the PALATINE was. What Palatine? said he. Ha'? replied Humbertus roughly, there's no jesting nor trifling with me, I ask for IPHIGENES Governor of this Palatinate, who is Prisoner here. Sir, answered the Judge, if I were to die immediately, I am not able to tell you where he is, nor what he is; For, he is one whom I never saw. At least, said Humbertus, you shall let me see Him that wrote me this Letter, he is an old Man. The Judge having demanded to see the Letter, and having read it, Ah! treacherous old Man, cried he, are these the Mountains of Gold which thou were't to bring forth? Then without farther entreaty (his Messenger desiring him to release him out of his pain) he conducted Humbertus with his attendants to Boleslaüs Chamber, who in few words gave him the full Relation of their Comical Chase, their several disguises, and their imprisonment, which had like to have had a Tragical conclusion.  
Then resigning his place to the Judge, Sir, said Boleslaüs to Humbertus, Let us now go directly to the Palatine; For, although for his pastime he hath been Author of all this, I fear his own trouble is not the least, and when he is free we shall easily release the rest. This said, the Judge, being Manacled, was forced to go before to show them where he had put Madam Serife; For, Boleslaüs who knew the secret, told him, that she was the Palatine whom they sought, and that now he should make him believe by good tokens those verities, which he before so much slighted and laughed at.  
When Serife saw Boleslaüs entering into her room; Ah! Father, said she, what good Angel hath brought you hither to release me out of this Captivity, where I was in the greatest perplexity imaginable? Whereupon Boleslaüs told her his Stratagem in sending for that Troop, which was commanded by Humbertus, who attended her pleasure at the door. O Father, said Iphigenes, suffer him not to come in, For, I should be yet more afflicted if he should see me in Woman's ; bid him command one of the Guards to give me his and let him take one of the Peasant's habits, that I may quickly get out of this Dungeon, where I have endured so much unworthiness.  
This command was presently performed, and Iphigenes appeared in the form of Iphis, not of Serife, before her Guards. She was no sooner out, but Passion made her ask for Liante. Alas Sir, said Humbertus, I left him in the Prison with two Soldiers to guard him, but he is in a pitiful condition, I cannot but grieve at his disaster, yet it concerns not us to contradict our Master's will. How, in a pitiful condition? Sir, said Humbertus, your Grandeur knows better than I the whole story. Tell me, Humbertus (replied Iphigenes) what story? Then the Captain related to him, what he had heard of Mieslas order in Plocens, which he believed his Father would not have commanded without communicating it to him.  
This so troubled Iphigenes, that he could not be satisfied without going to see him, notwithstanding Humbertus dissuaded him all he could; being come to Liante's Prison, where he found a multitude of Clowns crowding in, he commanded his Soldiers to seize upon them all, and advancing near Liante, who lay upon the ground all covered with blood and dust, and loaden with Irons; What is the matter, Brother, said he, in what equipage do I see you? These are your sports, replied Liante angrily, you may end them when you please, but I am sure they have almost ended me. How ended? said Iphigenes. It was this infamous Generation of Clownish Rascals, answered Liante, that hath put me in the pickle you see me, and if my pains are a pleasure to you, you may let me alone in my misery, Death itself will be welcome to me if it proceed from your Hand or Order: But you would oblige me very much to send me into the Wars, where I might lose my Life with Honour, and not be butchered by these Ox-drivers.  
All this was a Riddle to Iphigenes and Boleslaüs; for, having been kept every one in a several room, they knew nothing of each other's sufferings. And it being then no time to stand long in Discourse, Iphigenes contented himself to protest to Liante, that he was innocently the cause of that imprisonment, whereof he was not then to repent; but, that he was in no wise consenting to the treacherous design of Mieslas, which he would most evidently make appear.  
What do you talk to me of Mieslas, Replied Liante, whilst they were losing his bands, I think that Sorcerer Arcade hath enchanted you as well as me, and hath made you believe I know not what story of your Father concerning me, which is the most ridiculous Tale that e'er I heard. Is it not so then? said Iphigenes, What, Brother? have you not been in the hands of Mieslas his servants? I have neither seen Mieslas, nor any that have relation to him, only Arcade (whom they brought hither to me th'other day) told me that he was at Plocens, and that he had caused me to be apprehended there, with several other idle circumstances, which cannot proceed but from a distracted Brain.  
You have then no other harm than what these Peasants have done you, said Iphigenes: Or than you have made them do me, continued Liante, but if I get once free of these bonds, I'll make them feel the weight of my Fingers. Have you no other wounds than what we see? said Iphigenes, No other, answered he, but if I had not been succoured in time, and if Humbertus had not appeared when he did (but you gave him his just time that your Game might be complete) they threatened to do me the greatest affront that ever was offered to any Man, and expose my Body naked to the view of every Passenger, and not satisfied with that shame, which I hold worse than Death, they purposed to make me die publicly by the authority of the Justice, against which they taxed me for having committed a Rebellion (in defending myself against their insolences) which they said could be no otherwise washed away than in my own Blood; but all this I believe was but to fright me.  
Hereupon Humbertus said softly to Iphigenes, Sir there is nothing more certain than that Mieslas servants have delivered him into these Peasant's hands, to execute that shameful Commandment which he had imposed on them. If it be so, replied Iphigenes aloud, I will make them be hanged immediately in my own presence. If you do not, answered Calliante, I shall say that you had a hand in it, and though I were to be hewed in a thousand pieces, there is not one of them but I will sheathe my Sword in his Bowels, the injurious words and unworthy treatment wherewith they have violated my Patience, cannot be satisfied with any less Vengeance; For, what command soever you gave them to torment me, I am confident they have exceeded their Commission, and used me worse than they were enjoined.  
In sum, not to dwell any longer in these lawless proceed of that corrupt Justice, the rest of the Prisoners being released, when they least expected it, after some mutual Conferences and Communicating their respective Sufferings in Prison; the matter was decided to the confusion of the Judge, and all the Inhabitants of that Village, who were as Blank at this alteration as Bell-founders when their Metals answer not their Expectation. IPHIGENES was acknowledged to be Palatine of that Country; Almeria known to be Liante (but only to Humbertus and some few others, who were enjoined to silence under pain of the Palatine's high displeasure) and Arcade found a true and faithful servant, being confronted with Humbertus. Nothing was wanting but Halters to hang those Clowns, and the Judge higher than the rest: Which Iphigenes, being pressed by the conjurations of Calliante and the other Gentlemen, would have had executed forthwith.  
The chief Actors were presently apprehended, as the Judge and his inseparable shadows, the Clarks, and other bloodsucking Officers, with Celian's Sons and the three Harpies, besides some others which were found Complices of their insolences; of whom the Soldiers, to revenge the Palatine, chose each of them one, to tie him to the branches of the next Tree.  
Those Rustics who were a little before such insulting Tyrants, became now humble Petitioners, and begged pardon upon their Knees, making many excuses, pleading ignorance and condemning their rashness. Calliante, seconded by Pomeran, Pisides and Argal, cried out for nothing but Vengeance and sudden Execution, every one relating the particular affronts they had received: Only Boleslaüs more discreet than those young fiery Spirits, hearkened attentively to what they said without uttering a syllable, until Iphigenes said, What? Father, do you say nothing?  
To this he replied, It is not that I have not had my share of the bitterness of this Cup as well as the rest, but methink's the Sun hath now given place to the Night, as it were, on purpose to give us Counsel, and somewhat settle the motions which agitate our several thoughts; that which is done in cold Blood is always riper and more considerate than what is acted in heat of Passion. Choler is a short Madness, the productions of that Passion are seldom judicious; you may do what you please, but as the King of therres ●●es is without a sting, So you will find by experience that Clemency is more convenient for those that govern, than a rigorous Justice. I do not say this to excuse the Malice of these Swains; but you are to consider that for your own Pastime you have cast yourself into this Tempest; if you give a Tragical end to a Comedy, you will not observe the Rules of the Play: You laid the block before their feet, whereat they have so indiscreetly stumbled. It becomes not the Palatine of Plocens to revenge the injuries offered to Serife unknown, nor Liante to resent those which were done to Calliante and Almeria. When this shall come to be divulged by so solemn an Execution, what will People say, but that you have imitated Cats, who first play with the Mice, and then kill them? and there will not be wanting some that will compare this Action to the cruelty of the Roman Emperors, who at their Feasts made the Gladiators, in their presence, feed their Eyes with humane Blood, whilst they were filling their Bellies with the Flesh of Beasts. Calumny, which forgeth what is not, how will not she aggravate this which hath some image of rigour, although in effect it is but an Act of Justice? Sir. I tell you again, you may do as you think fit, but the Zeal which I have of your glory, makes me desire rather to hear the praises of your humanity, resounding on the Tongues of Men, than complaints against your severity and rashness.  
What? said Iphigenes, shall such crimes than pass unpunished? by no means, answered Boleslaus, I would not have you be insensible of their misdemeanours, but I advise you only so to manage your Chastisements, that your Enviers may find no occasion to defame your manner of Government, and cast you farther into the King's disfavour than you are. For, as it is easy to impose any thing upon one that is absent, by consequent it will not be hard to render him odious.  
What? shall this wicked Judge then escape for such abominable extortions? said Liante; I will rather strangle him with my own Hands, then that the World shall be infested any longer with such an Harpy; And we, said the other Gentlemen, will do as much to those other Monsters, who have nothing of humane but their shapes.  
Gentlemen, answered Boleslaus, to stop the boiling of your irritated bloods, there is a way to content you, to punish them sufficiently, and preserve the Honour and Reputation of the Palatine. This proposition having procured all their attentions, he coninued thus: Do not you think the fear of Death, will be a punishment answerable to the pains which they have made us suffer, and into which indeed we cast ourselves for our own pleasures? whereunto if you add the Lash or the Strappado with a perpetual Banishment, I do not see but that you may be throughly satisfied, they rigorously enough punished, and that those who shall hear of this penalty and their offence, will not have occasion rather to applaud the Palatine's Mercy and Prudence, than condemn his rigour. And for the Judge, I confess he deserve's Death by all humane Laws; but if you consider how his case is linked with the Peasant's, and that by your disguisements you puzzled their understandings you will find that if they are not worthy of Grace for their own sakes, you ought to pardon them for the Love of yourselves, since by your secret connivance you did in a manner make them tumble into the ditch of Error, which led them into these exorbitances.  
At last Boleslaüs by his mild and discreet Arguments stopped the impetuosity of their wrath, as heaps of soft Earth use to stifle Cannon-bullets, and persuaded those high Spirits to condescend to his remonstrances. So Night being far spent, they settled themselves to rest, resolving to put his advice in Execution next morning.  
In mean time, the Trances and Agonies, which the apprehension of Death made the Countrypeople feel, were beyond expression. The Day which rejoiceth all the World was odious to them, as that, which was to veil their Eyes with an everlasting Night: But Heavens provided for them otherwise then they expected. For, to give them a full measure of fear, Iphigenes commanded they should be all hanged forthwith upon trees near their own dwellings, which the Soldiers were very ready to execute; but, as they were about to give them the swing, Boleslaüs and the other Gentlemen cast themselves at the Palatine's feet, to beg their Lives, of which, Apprehension had almost bereft them already. Then came the deplorable Celian watering his hoary-Beard with tears, and prostrating himself before Iphigenes, beseeched him by all that was most sacred in Heaven and on Earth, not to deprive him of all his children at once, and quite extinguish those sparks, by whom he hoped to revive in his Posterity.  
This supplication was seconded with the lamentable cries of the three Searchers, who were tied to their several Gibbets like the rest; the image of Death (painted on their Faces, and which danced before their Eyes) touched with some compassion those who were the day before so eager for revenge, deriving all the fault upon the Judge, who escaped very narrowly being sacrificed to Example, and having been (as the Hebrew's Emissary Goat) loaden with the Faults and Maledictions of all the People. But in stead of perishing for the rest, he had his grace as well as they, a disgraceful grace, yet just and full of equity.  
For, if their lives were given them, it was to prolong it by a condition, which those that are happy in a Country, and who love their native soil, would esteem worse than Death: It was Banishment, which was so dreadful to the Romans, that they thought it was to die, to live out of Rome. 'Tis true, that with poor People it is as with those that are extremely generous, to whom every Land is their Country, as the Air and Water are the Elements of Birds and Fishes.  
But before the pronouncing of this sentence, (which could not but be sweet to those that were recalled from the Sepulchre) It was decreed, to spare the pains of fetching Surgeons, presently to let blood those People, whom the fear of Death had cast into a violent Fever, to recommend them to the discretion or rather indiscretion of the Soldiers, who to save rods, laced their shoulders so well with their stirrop-leathers, that they made them swim in their own blood, which was inflamed with the Wine they drank some days before in so great abundance. And the three Shepherdesses, deputed for that search, had their share of this whipping- cheer.  
After this blooding, six Soldiers were appointed to conduct them forthwith to Danzic, to be embarked and transported thence into Moscovia (a Country more rude and barbarous than Sarmatia) there to continue to perpetuity, under pain of being Hanged if ever they returned. Where they remained until Iphigenes' re-establishment at Court, who then considering that they were sufficiently punished, sent them his Grace, and permitted them to repossess their former Habitations.   

The Tenth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Iphigenes to prevent the malicious Practices of Mieslas against Liante, causes him to be secured in a strong Castle in his Palatinate. He returns to Plocens to meet his Father Mieslas. Their Salutations, and Speeches concerning Liante, and Almeria. Mieslas persuades Iphigenes to give the Princess Respicia a visit. Her imaginary contentment at his seeming Professions of Affection. Iphigenes being with his Father, and the Princess, is sent for by Menochius in a lady's habit, who gives him an account of Modestina's escape out of Prison, and her being taken in Man's  for Liante by Mieslas servants. Iphigenes perplexed at this Relation, consults with Boleslaus how to demean himself. His sage advice: to satisfy Iphigenes, He undertakes in person to inform Liante of what had passed at Plocens. The affront offered to Modestina by the barbarous instruments of Mieslas cruelty against Liante, is related to Mieslas in his Son's presence. The just resentments of Iphigenes for that indignity done to his Wife, and his resolute Speeches to his Father concerning Her and Liante. The furious Mieslas severe Replies. Iphigenes' reserved carriage towards the Princess Respicia, after this passionate Conference with Mieslas. Her Amorous Complaints. Liante relates his Dream to Boleslaus. He applies the circumstances of that Dream to the transfiguration and Disaster of Modestina. Liante upon this assurance of Maieslas' barbarismo, without acquainting him, or any else with his Design, steals privately out of the Castle. Mieslas having learned where Iphigenes had concealed his feigned Shepherdess, marches with a strong Party of Horse thither in the Night; being entered, under the Name of Iphigenes, he commands his Men to leave no corner unsearched for Almeria. Next Morning early Iphigenes with a more considerable strength hasts after his Father; Meets him coming forth of the Castle; Passion persuades Iphigenes to charge him: Boleslaus dissuades it. The blustering words betwixt the Father and Son at this Encounter. After some Dispute they return to Plocens. Mieslas much displeased at his Son, retires himself to his own Palatinate: the Princess Respicia to the Court. She causes a complaining Letter to be left upon the Table in Iphigenes Chamber. He slights her Torments, but is much perplexed for the loss of Liante. Liante's Letter to Iphigenes. The Grand Duke of Lithuania commonly Elected to the Crown of Polonia. The Reason of the Lithuanians Rebellion against their Prince. Liante is received and honourably treated by the Palatines of Troc, and Minsce, chief Commanders of the revolted Party. Iphigenes' resentment for Liante's siding with the Rebels. The King prepares a great Army, to suppress them. Mieslas returns to Court, is made Lieutenant General. The Princess Respicia procures Iphigenes to be repealed from Banishment, lest he should engage in the Wars. His answer to the King's Letter inviting him to the Court. Tho Substance of Modestina's Letter to Iphigenes, and of his Answer. Iphigenes raises a considerable Party of Horse for the present Service, meets his Father at the Rendez vous. The Royal Army besiges Minsce the Rebel's chief City. A description of the Palatine of Minsce's two Daughters Oloria and Amiclea. Liante falls in Love with Amiclea; Oloria with Him. Liante sends a Challenge to any of the Royal Party: Is encountered by Iphigenes, both unknown. After some dispute Liante is worsted. The Gallantry and Courtesy of Iphigenes to his Enemy, before he knew him to be Liante. Their Deportments and Speeches after this Discovery. Mieslas' rage against his Son for sparing Liante's Life. Mieslas begs of the King the confiscation of Liante's Estate, pretending he was in actual Rebellion. Liante sends Mieslas a Challenge. Iphigenes is second to his Father, and Polemander to Liante. Iphigenes unhorses Polemander, and Liante had killed Mieslas, had not Iphigenes rescued him. The Lithuanian's Reception of Liante after this Victory. Olavius designs his Daughter Oloria for Liante. She discovers her Passion to Him. He rejects her, and becomes more inflamed for Amiclea.  
THe Peasants having thus paid for their insolence, the Palatine, accompanied by those Gentlemen and his Guards, repaired towards Plocens, to meet his Father. And in regard he could not conceive who should be that miserable Creature, whom Mieslas had taken for Liante, and had commanded to be so ill-treated, not to expose that innocent Nobleman to the hazard of receiving any affront from that rigorous Sarmatian, he sent him with a Convoy of twelve Soldiers to a Castle in his Dominion, entreating him to stay there until further intelligence from him, with an exact account of Mieslas intentions; and whence that news was derived, which Arcade brought in such haste, and was afterwards confirmed by Humbertus.  
Liante being thus secured from Mieslas fury, Iphigenes gave order that his other Domestics, and Huntsmen should meet him a league from Plocens, where he dismissed his Soldiers, and entered into the City with a more peaceable train. His Father received him with great demonstrations of joy, and he returned the Honours and Respect which Nature obliged him to render to the Author of his life. The compliments and embraces being past, they presently fell into the Discourse of what was said and done at Court.  
There hath been no Action of late (said Mieslas) whereof, I believe, you have not been informed; But perchance your intelligence hath not been so punctual in letting you understand what is said there; For, generally what is reported of us comes last of all to our knowledge: the Eye which seethe all other Objects, see's not itself, and knowing how every thing else is made, is ignorant of its own composition. Thereupon Iphigenes, not without colouring his cheeks with a graceful vermilion, having inquired how People censured him, said; It is no wonder if my Name be traduced, the ordinary Discourse of Courtiers being principally of Favourites, or of those who are in disgrace, to whose Actions they give what colours they please.  
I will tell you really (said Mieslas) it is not of your perfidiousness or any treason that you have committed: For, every one knows the education I have bestowed on you, and how I never recommended any thing so much to you as Loyalty, and Obedience towards your Sovereign. Neither is there any mention of your absence from Court, which cannot be called a disgrace, in regard the King and Queen never speak of you but in very honourable and advantageous terms: But, all mouths are filled, especially the lady's, with your new affection for a certain Shepherdess in these Forests, who is esteemed an invisible Diana, and you her Endymion. There are some, who bear her as much Envy as they are full of Pity and Passion for you, admiring that you who have sailed through the Sea of the Court without striking upon any Rock or Sand, should now be shipwrecked in a sorry Brook; and who having despised the splendour of so many Suns in the Sphere of the Grandeurs of Polonia, should abase yourself to do homage to a Moon in the obscurity of these Woods. And divers speaking with me concerning you, have said that they believed this servile yoke, so disproportionable to your quality, was fallen upon your neck as a punishment for the scorns wherewith you paid the merit of those Ladies of honour that affected you.  
Iphigenes desiring to turn all this into a Gallantry of Youth, and prepossess Mieslas in case he should chance to learn any farther particulars, gave him a brief relation of his Rural Recreations, of the Country-People's insolence, and what punishment he had inflicted upon their unworthiness, vernishing his Narration as he pleased, to the end this first impression might take place of after-reports, which flew about in several forms, but all so far from the truth, that it might properly be said of Fame, she is like a Chameleon, which takes all sorts of Liveries, except the whiteness of Verity. In conclusion, he said, that he was more passionate in show for his Shepherdess by much than in effect, in regard she was nothing recommendable for Beauty, but only for her extreme Nimbleness, and Dexterity in the Exercise of Hunting.  
So much I have always promised myself of your judgement (answered Mieslas) what ever others would make me believe of your Affection to this Country-wench, whom they stuck not to give out that you were resolved to Marry. I am not yet arrived to that degree of folly (replied the subtle Iphigenes) neither have I so little sense of my condition, that I should make a Shepherdess my Wife, considering that the conquest of such People is not so difficult, but that a Man may accomplish his desires better cheap, than by a public shame, and the loss of both Fortune and Honour: Besides, I should esteem myself unworthy of the Blood I have from you, of the rank which I possess by the King's Favour, and of the Estate which I enjoy and expect to have by him and you, if the only thought of so ridiculous an alliance should harbour in my breast.  
I can believe no other (said Mieslas) but the Women are not so satisfied: For, being the pure substance of infirmity, they presently take the alarm, and seizing on the Firebrand by the burning end, they construe every action in the worst sense. This is averred by the Princess Respicia, who at the first broaching of this news (out of excess of Passion for you) fell into such strange distempers, imagining that you would give her the slip, that she never ceased persecuting me, until I came to bring water to quench this new Fire, and dissipate or at least hinder by my presence your imaginary Marriage: And to make you sensible of her impatience, (which cannot be blamed but for an extremity of Affection) she hath followed me so close, that I arrived here but one day before her. How, said Iphigenes, (counterfeiting an astonishment, though he had been informed of her coming) is she in this Country? I must acknowledge as much Obligation to her Love, as her jealousy hath done me injury: But doth she esteem me so little judicious, or guilty of so much inconstancy, as to change the glory of appertaining to her, for the embraces of a silly Shepherdess, who cannot be compared to her, unless it were to make appear how beautiful the Day is by the horrors and darkness of the Night?  
I am glad, said Mieslas, that this opposition makes you consider the value of that Lady, and especially to hear you speak in such terms of her Merit, which is yet greater than you imagine, and her affection to you beyond comparison. If you had expressed yourself thus before, things would not have been in the condition they now are; but your first Marriage not being consummated, you might have freely contracted this second, without staying for any needless Dispensations, whose tedious delays are incompatible with her Desires. You may be confident, Sir (replied Iphigenes) that I suffer no less than she the rigour of that Law; but methink's my Conscience would never be at ease, if that be not declared void by a public authority, which was so solemnly contracted. It is true, what ceremony soever was used, I never had any intention to marry Modestina, which may easily be judged by the tenderness of my Age in which your absolute Will m●●● me take her to Wife, rather than my own Inclination, which neither at that time nor since, hath been much bend towards any Woman in particular. I must confess as Love is paid but by it self, this affection wherewith the Princess is pleased to honour me, obligeth my Soul to a reciprocal resentment, unloss I would purchase to myself the title and blame of the most ingrateful among Mortals; And, I will assure her, that assoon as I shall be legally freed from the yoke of Modestina, I will render myself her Seave, and make her my Wife, if she continue in the same desire of having me to Husband.  
Mieslas, being much satisfied with this Speech so conformable to the Passion he had to see this Marriage accomplished, and the former dissolved, said; if the Princess heard you speak thus much in her favour, I think Joy would so play the sweet Tyrant in her Breast, that it would in a manner rob her Heart of Life. It is a singular happiness for me (answered Iphigenes) that I am able to give you and her satisfaction, and (in obeying you by Duty and Obligation) find besides what correspond's to my own desire. For, I am not so void of understanding, as not to see how much this alliance, both for Estate and Parentage, is more advantageous to me than Modestina's, whose Fortune will be much diminished by Liante, who having now taken his flight into the World, will first or last find the means, either by the favour of some Eminent Person, that may perchance make him his Son-in-Law, or by the support of the Justice of this Kingdom, regain the possession of his Inheritance, whereof indeed we cannot frustrate him without exposing ourselves to the detraction and Envy of those, who carp at my actions.  
Let not that trouble you (said Mieslas) For, I have taken such a course, that we will enjoy both, being most undoubtedly sure of that I have already in my Hands. For, Modestina hath protested very solemnly, if her Marriage to you be declared void, that she will never have any other Husband than a Cloister. As for Liante, I have unexpectedly met with him, and committed him into the hands of such trusty Executioners, as will clear all these doubts, if he will not endure to be reduced into a condition of never having issue.  
Iphigenes having brought him to the point, whereof he desired with much impatience to be satisfied, deferred not to ask him, how Liante happened into his Hands? Mieslas thereupon told him, that coming to Plocens he found him there, expecting his return from Hunting. Sir, answered Iphigenes, did he tell you that he came to see me? No, said Mieslas, for I saw him not, but thus he said to those whom I sent to apprehend him. Did not you see him then, answered Iphigenes? No, I would not, said Mieslas, lest the compassion which the tenderness of his Youth might have suscitated in my Breast, should have made me lament his Fortune, and recant the Design which I had resolved to execute upon him. That Design, said Iphigenes, is very severe, and it is to be feared, that being divulged (as it is no easy matter to conceal such actions long) it will produce one of these two mischiefs; either that it will cast you into the King's disfavour, (who doubtless will abhor so strange a proceeding) or else that the despair of so inhuman a violence, may make that poor Gentleman resolve to preserve his own Life to take away yours, and revenge himself at what rate soever of that affront, which is the most sensible any Man can endure.  
I have other ways, answered Mieslas, to bridle his fury: the Prison whither I have sent him, shall keep him safe enough, until he hath purged away all his Choler. As for the King's displeasure I fear it not, considering that I have rendered him services capable to counterpoise this action, which will rather excite laughter than any thought of punishment. You are too conscientious for a Palatine, if you quit not these vain Scruples, you will never raise your fortune to the height. In this World a Man must be daring, and allow somewhat to adventure; he that hath so much circumspection, will never acquire great Riches; be sure to get what you can into your Possession, and then you may dispose afterwards at leisure. I have always (replied Iphigenes) held Scruples to be vain doubts, which make us esteem evil that which is not so; But it is neither Superstition nor Scruple to call evil that which visibly is so; and for my part I had rather Live and Die poor, than enrich myself by unlawful ways: if you call this Humour, I call it Reason, and I am so wedded to this Reason, that nothing shall make me renounce it, no, not all the Wealth, nor all the Sceptres in the World.  
Leave this Discourse (said Mieslas) and go give as much satisfaction to the fair Princess, (who is come to see you) as you have given me, by the promise you have made to answer her affection by your services, and make my Prayers follow by your Obedience. So, they went immediately to wait upon the Princess, whose agitations of spirit I will not stand to represent, nor repeat her words, contenting myself to say, that Iphigenes, who was Wit and Eloquence itself, omitted no sort of Honours, Compliments, respectful Behaviour and acquaint Terms to foment her Fire, and fill the sails of her Hope with a thousand Protestations as frivolous as the Wind: Insomuch that being ravished with joy to see herself, as it were, at the top of her pretensions, her Fancy floated upon the Sea of her desires, and fed itself with imaginary contentments.  
The whole Fable of Almeria (the Diana of those woods) was represented in new colours, wherewith Iphigenes shadowed his Narration so artificially, that the Enamel hath not so much grace when most curiously laid on Gold, as those flowers of Rhetoric in his Mouth gave ornament to that story.  
Night summoning every one to a Retreat, a Page came to acquaint Iphigenes, that there was a Lady in the Hall, who desired to speak with him about some business of great importance. He, who was all Courtesy, especially towards Ladies, made her not long expect him: But she having entreated him to hear in private what she had to impart to him, he led her into his Chamber, where she said, My Lord, the person that speaks to you under this Woman's habit is a Man Iphigenes not a little surprised at these words, & the room being somewhat obscure, thought it had been Liante; which made him presently say, Ah! Brother, wherefore are you come hither? do you long to be butchered, and precipitate yourself into Death? you do not (it seems) know the affront Mileslas intends to your Person.  
My Lord, answered the disguised Man, You take me for another, I am Menochius, one of your Mother Aretuza's servants, appointed to wait upon your Lady, Modestina, in the Castle where your Father commanded her to be kept close Prisoner: There she first gained my heart by Pity, then by presents, and lastly by promises and assurances, that the service she desired of me would be acceptable to you; It was to convey her out of Prison: which I effected very fortunately, having covered her with one of my Suits; and having provided Horses in a convenient place not far thence, I conducted her hither, where she commanded me to take the habit wherein you see me, whilst she went abroad to inquire after you: And here was confirmed to her the news, which made her resolve to find you out, being pricked with Jealousy and the apprehension of losing you by a Passion, which she was informed, possessed you for a Shepherdess in these Neighbouring Forests, whom you were reported to have been resolved to marry. But her ill fortune was, at the arrival of Mieslas, to be observed by some of his followers or yours, and to be taken by them for Liante, by reason of her likeness to him in Face, and her being in Man's . Upon this mistake she was apprehended by order from Mieslas, and I hear that he hath sent her back into Podolia, to the same Castle where Liante was Prisoner: But when she is known, I believe she will be sent where she was before, with her Governess Perpetua. And I, My Lord, remain here destitute of all relief, having no hope but in your Pity, no confidence but in your Mercy. If I have transgressed in serving her in her desires (which proceeded only from the extreme and incomparable affection she bears you) I am ready to receive such punishment as you shall please to ordain. If your more favourable censure judge me not culpable, I fly for refuge under your Protection against the fury of Mieslas, who will make me be torn in pieces, if he come to know that I have contributed any thing to her escape: For, he dreaded nothing so much as to see her with you.  
Iphigenes seeing that Menochius ended there his Speech, asked him if he knew no farther news of Modestina? No, answered he, For, fearing to discover myself, I durst not inquire after any other particulars. By this Discourse Iphigenes presently perceived what gave the rise to that Report, which Arcade brought him into the Prison, and the veil fell from those Enigmas, which held his imagination in suspense. But this was to him a falling out of the Frying-pan into the Fire: for as his Passion for Liante was great, so his Affection to Modestina was not ordinary; and if he would have desired to change his Sex, it should have been merely for her sake, and to be really her Husband; none among all the Ladies he had ever seen deserving more than Modestina to possess his Body as well as his Heart. And indeed Iphigenes had lost much of the glory of his sweet Disposition, if he had done less than love Her, who besides their long education together, the conformity of their humours, and the bond of their Souls, came to give him so remarkable an evidence of her Love, exposing her person to so many perils to seek him, & enjoy the felicity of his Presence. So Liante being already secured from his Father's rage, all his care was bend towards Modestina, as the Object which had most need of his succour; and having dismissed Menochius, after advising him to continue in that Woman's habit, and stir little abroad until Mieslas were returned to Court, promising him his Protection and Assistance against whomsoever: and in acknowledgement of the service which he had rendered to Modestina, he filled his hand with a good sum of Gold, as an earnest of the favours he would do him, assuring him in mean time to exempt him from Danger and Necessity.  
Which done, he cast himself upon his Bed, overwhelmed with such a multitude of thoughts, that his Eyelids were hardly closed all night; For, his Heart being divided betwixt Modestina and Liante, and suspended like a piece of Iron between two Loadstones, he knew not which way to incline his resolution. This restlessness of Mind denying repose to his Body, he sent very early in the Morning for Boleslaüs, to take advice of that faithful Counsellor, how he should shape his course in that tempestuous occurrence. He repeated in brief what Menochius had told him; and the fear lest (Modestina being discovered by his Father's bloody instruments) they, to comply with his severity, should murder her, put his Heart into an unspeakable perplexity. To post presently to her relief, had been to contradict what he had made the Princess and his Father believe of his slender esteem of that Wife, from whom he seemed to them to desire nothing more than a separation: Not to go, and not to assist her in so urgent a necessity, he deemed an ingratitude not to be digested by any generous Spirit. On the other side being too well acquainted with the cruelty of Mieslas, and the design he had against Liante, he began to think that he had not provided sufficiently for his safety, keeping him so near that inexorable Sarmatian. And although Palatines (who are incontrouleable in their own Governments) have no authority in another's Dominion; yet the quality of Father gave Mieslas I know not what privilege in that of Plocens, which Iphigenes would not have permitted to another.  
Having communicated all these painful imaginations to Boleslaüs, he answered; My Lord, it happens ofttimes that recreative sports are the presages, and as I may say, the Prologues of more serious occurrences: It was your pleasure to make yours lately in the Forest, and perchance it is the Heaven's Will now to act their part. You made Liante be covered with Woman's , whilst his Sister made her escape in Man's; and whilst you courted Him in that feigned appearance, She followed you in her disguise. He love's you with perplexity, because he thinks you are a Man; and She is jealous of you, not imagining that you are a Woman. You personated Modestina in the Woods, while she represented Liante at Plocens; your Friends were deceived in you, and your Father in her. Observe how all these passages are linked to each other. It was not without the particular providence of Heaven, that we escaped the affronts which those irritated Clowns would have made us suffer; and I beseech the Powers above to continue us the same grace, and draw us out of the Labyrinths, wherein, I foresee, that we are likely to be involved. Indeed it would require the thread of a greater Prudence than mine to conduct us safely forth; But since you do me the honour to believe me, my fidelity having been approved by you. I can do no less than persevere in assisting you till Death with my Head, Hands, Advice, and Life. All the remedies you can now apply to Modestina, will be too late; For, since her being apprehended, she is infallibly either Dead or re-inclosed in her Prison; besides, by going in Person, or sending to rescue her, you would discover a Meaning contrary to what you have professed in Words to your Father and the Princess; which would be very prejudicial to a person of your condition, who never ought to be surprised in double-dealing. The best way therefore in my opinion is to expect the certainty of this Event, and take it as from the hand of Providence, what e'er it be. If she be Dead, consider that your Sorrow will not recall her to Life; and besides, she is a Creature, the privation of whom ought to be the less grievous to you, in regard Nature hath forbidden you the enjoyment of her Person. But for the preservation of Liante, whom you cherish above all the rest of Mortals, you ought in time to apply your Care, Diligence and Authority. Yet as the deepest Waters make the least noise in their course, so the solidest Judgements conduct their affairs with more temper, and less rumour, more Effects and less show. The surest guards you can give Liante, are Secrecy and Silence. Make as if you knew not where he is, and let Pisides, Argal and Pomeran remain in the error, which possesseth them that he is Almeria; Close with the Seal of Authority Arcade's lips by a severe prohibition to reveal this Mystery; and command Humbertus and his Soldiers under pain of Death not to declare what they know concerning him. If, notwithstanding all these veils, Mieslas should chance to discover the place of his retreat, we shall easily make him escape out of this Country, or by Night convey him into some private Corner, which shall be known but to very few.  
However we must advertise him of what particulars we have learned since our arrival (said Iphigenes) and who shall we appoint to carry him this message? Do you think Arcade fit for this purpose? I would not advise you (answered Boleslaus) to commit this secret (which toucheth you in the Apple of the Eye) neither to Arcade, nor to paper; For the one may miscarry, the other be corrupted: If you conceive me worthy to serve you therein you may freely command me; For you are the only Master whom I do, or will ever serve.  
Father, said Iphigenes, embracing the old man's neck, and washing his Face with tears, you continue obliging me in things that are more sensible, and which I esteem more precious than my Life; do me then the courtesy to go in my Name to him, for whom I preserve myself, and tell him that to preserve him there is no force, but I will employ it, no respect of Father that I shall stick to violate; since choosing him for my Spouse, I ought to prefer him before Father and Mother. You shall be a living Letter, and I am sure you will represent to him the passages here much better than I can write; only in one thing I should surpass you, that is, in representing him my affections: For, there is none but that Tongue whose Heart is pierced with Love, which is able to express to the Life the resentments of a passionate Soul.  
Boleslaüs, to satisfy the impatience of Iphigenes, departed presently with this Commission, and had hardly delivered his message to Liante, when news was brought to Mieslas (his Son being then with him) of the Discovery of the imaginary Liante, the Story whereof was thus.  

THE DISCOVERY OF MODESTINA.  
THose who had taken upon them the charge of conducting Modestina, disguised in Man's habit, being arrived in a place where, they thought, they might securely execute their damnable design on the person of that innocent Creature, having to that effect procured a Chirurgeon for a great sum of Money, and masked him, lest being afterwards known by him to whom they intended to do that horrible affront, he might be liable to the Law or his Revenge; The pitiful Prisoner suffered herself to be bound, like an harmless sheep whom the rugged Butchers carry to the Slaughter-house, without the least Replication; And whether Modesty tied her Tongue, or the horror of the affront by a sudden apprehension deprived her of the use of Speech, she remained some time without so much as ask what they intended: At length as if her Spirits had returned out of a deep trance, and fearing more the loss of her Honour than of her Life, she screaked out like a Virgin calling for aid against the violence of some dissolute Ravisher: For, she conceived that they having perceived what she was, would have sated their brutal appetites on her. But she learned other news by him that brought the Commission from Mieslas, who speaking as if she had been Liante, told her, that she must resolve to imitate the Beaver when he is chased, or lose her Life; that if she were wise, of those two evils she should choose the least, and save the whole by losing a part. In a word, he Made her understand the Will and Command of Mieslas, which was to make her an Eunuch against her Will, since she had refused to make herself such by a voluntary embracing of an Ecclesiastic Life.  
Then Modestina seeing herself reduced to this extremity, judged it time to declare her condition, and disabuse them of their error: But it was after attempting this last means, protesting that she was ready to obey the Will of Mieslas in resigning herself wholly to the service of the Church, beseeching to defer their Execution until they had received his definitive answer. For that the lot is already cast (replied the chief of the Band) there is no other determination to be expected than your choice. It concerns not us to interpret the commands of our Master, we have now no leisure to discourse, time require's a speedy Expedition, choose the hand of the Chirurgeon, or that which shall plunge a Poniard in your Breast.  
Hereby Modestina perceiving that her last remedy was in vain, and that she must use other terms; Thou Barbarous Wretch, said she, couldst thou have the Heart to sheathe that murderous blade in an innocent Woman's bosom, who is capable of receiving Death, but not the affront which thou proposest? There is as much difference betwixt him, to whom thou thinkest to speak, and me, as between Brother and Sister; I am not Liante, but Modestina, the Daughter-in-Law to thy cruel and impious Master, Wife to Iphigenes, who will be able to revenge my Death, if thou killest me, or my honour, if thou dost me the least affront.  
See, said the inhuman villain, what an invention this Gallant hath found upon a sudden to save himself in this storm, how the oxtremity of danger doth subtilise men's Wits? But we are not come thus far to stop in so fair way, we must put him in a condition of never pretending to the possession of the Lady Clemencia, she is reserved for a person of more eminent quality than he. This said, he prepared himself to make a search much different from that which the Shepherdesses would have made of Liante in the Prison.  
What resistance should this poor sheep have made in the midst of so many Wolves? that chaste Andromeda had recourse to her tears, whose tender drops were able to penetrate Marble, and mollify Hearts more rigid than the senseless Rocks. She conjured them by all that she thought might have most ascendance over their brutal Souls, to be pleased only to take notice by her Hair if what she said of her Sex and Condition were not true. Then having unbound her Head, a wave of delicate Curling Hair overflowed her shoulders; and covered all her Body to the waste, which made them spend some time in Admiration; yet they thought this but an illusion.  
That not satisfying, she entreated them to unbutton her doublet, and they should find in her Bosom a disposition correspondent to her Hair. Which done, as by the sweetness of the Mountains, one may judge of the Soil in the Valleys; So the Chirurgeon, who was present, and had some knowledge in the constitution of humane Bodies, seeing the gentle rising of those Snowy Hills upon her Breast, assured them of the Natural condition of the Dale. Insomuch that this Conjecture (which in all reason was sufficient) might have served as a bridle to their curiosity, if Misfortune (which had not yet rendered the state of that miserable Lady desperate enough to be released by Miracle) had not suggested to those Tiger's thoughts the desire of being farther satisfied by the visitation of certain grave Matrons, who affirmed upon their Consciences (having used the Lady with all sort of civility, and made no farther search than of her Head and Bosom) that she was a Lady full of as much Honour as Virtue and Integrity.  
How cruel and fiery soever those barbarous Executioners were, yet they could not hinder cold Fear from freezing up their Hearts; which distilling its Icy liquor through every vein, benumbed their spirits so, that they stood in a no less maze, than one who (unawares) chanceth to tread upon an angry Snake, lying in ambush under the green Tapestry of the Earth, whose horrid hissing invites the Passenger's Eyes to behold him raising his poisonous Head, and darting Death from his forked Tongue against the Foot that pressed him: They began to think themselves lost Men, for offering such an affront to a Person of her Quality, believing that neither in here's nor her Husband's Heart there could be any place for pardon of so unspeakable an injury.  
In this despair they consulted together to render their last error worse than the first. The blood of the innocent Modestina was put into the balance; The principal Man of that accursed crew made a proposition to take away her Life, alleging that they might justify themselves to Mieslas for that action, by the resistance which they would feign she made; and besides that thereby Iphigenes would be in full liberty to marry the Princess Respicia, without expecting the issue of so many formalities. This Proposition was put in deliberation, and discussed both ways. At length merciful Heaven (whose Eyes continually behold the just, and watch over their preservation) contrary to the ordinary course of the World (where evil Counsels commonly oversway the good) made the best and discreetest advice prevail in favour of that innocent captive. So that at length they concluded to suspend that cruel Execution, until they had advertised Mieslas of that mistake, and received directions from him, how to demean themselves in that occurrence. And this news was brought to the Palatine of Podolia, whilst he was with Iphigenes, the Messenger adding of his own conceit, That of a Hen they could not make a Capon.   
Iphigenes having been already informed by Menochius of Modestina's being taken, was the less astonished at this relation; But Mieslas was no less surprised than angry; surprised with the strangeness of the error, besides the uncertainty wherewith his thoughts were perplexed of the impression which this event might make in his Son's mind, who he believed would be very sensible of that affront done to a person of so near relation to him: And angry to see that, in stead of Liante (whom he intended to raze out of the number of Men) he had but a shadow; and which was worse, that the design he had against his person being divulged, and coming to his Ears, he would be more careful to avoid falling into his hands; or else, that perchance Despair would transport him to some memorable revenge. Nevertheless dissembling the distemper of his Mind, and hiding his Choler under a smiling Countenance, he feigned to turn this evenement into Laughter; yet could not forbear protesting if ever Eiante did fall into his hands, that he would deal him hard measure.  
His manner of speaking, drew from Iphigenes mouth this reply; The affront which you had plotted against him was the cruelest and most barbarous that could enter into the thoughts of Man, and I should be very sorry if it had been executed in my Palatinate: For, I do so abhor the injustice of that proceeding, that I should have employed all the power and force I could command to hinder it before it was attempted; and there is no sort of vengeance and punishment but I should make them suffer that had put it in execution. What? if I had commanded it? said the fierce Mieslas.  
Sir, answered the resolute Iphigenes, I know my duty to you as my Father, but you must give me leave likewise to consider what I own to my King, to my Province, to the People who under my Government are committed to Justice and my Conscience. Alexander the Great denied a request his Mother demanded of him, because in his Opinion it was not just. As being your Son I own my Life to you, but for the Honours and Estate which I possess, I must acknowledge myself indebted to the King's beneficence; and for my Government I must thank my Sword. You know that the jealousy of ruling makes Children not regard their Parents; That of commanding likewise makes Parents dis-own their Children. I have read in the History that a certain Consul of Rome having made his own Father alight from his Horse to render him the Honour which was due to his Magistracy, was applauded for that Action not only by all the Senate and People of that City, but by his Father also, as making the Laws of Nature, which were but particular give place to those of his Charge, which was public. And this I say to you, Sir, to the end that not any of your Attendants may dare to attempt any thing against Liante, if they should meet him within the territory of my Palatinate; otherwise I should torture them with so cruel a Death, that their punishment should serve for an example of horror to Posterity. And let not those brutal Villains, who have done that unworthy affront to Her who is yet my Wife, be so audacious as ever to appear in my presence; For, as the Creator lives, before whom I stand, I will pass and repass my Rapier through their Bodies for punishment of their insolence.  
The furious Mieslas, who was not accustomed to suffer such caresses, without retorting an answer with his hands aswell as his Tongue, seeing himself outbraved by him, whom he esteemed to be his subject, had no small pain to contain his Passion. He did however for that time, being bound by a certain respect, which Virtue and Verity do usually imprint in the most brutal and least tractable Spirits. So, having calmed his countenance, he replied, Iphigenes, I see that contrary to your custom you grow choleric and that your Passion transports you beyond the limits of that reverence which is due to me; I thought I had had more power with you, and a greater credit in your Dominions, than I find I have; But you are to remember that how eminent Dignities soever the King hath conferred upon you, no humane Law can exempt you from the obedience which by the Precepts of Heaven you own to me as your Father. In contradicting me you plead against yourself: For, do you not see that what I do is for you? that I scrape together only to make you rich? Will you undo what I design for your good? will you preserve those whom I seek to destroy, to establish you? Are not you like the Peacock, which uncover's the House where he roosts, or Ivy which pull's down the wall that holds it up?  
Sir, answered Iphigenes, Every one act's according to his understanding; and is the Artificer of his own good or bad Fortune; I will not ground mine upon the maxims which you hold, nor therein imitate your ways. If I am an honest Man, I have Wealth and Honours enough already by the mere liberality of the King my Master: If I am wicked, I have but too much. And I hold as an especial favour of Heaven this image of disgrace which hath absented me from Court, and thereby hinders me from attaining to that utmost degree of Fortune, that is envied by all the World, and which casts those who are elevated to that height into the public Hatred, and terms of continual apprehension, when Hope can promise them no more. And to declare freely my sense, I had rather be reduced to the extremest Period of Misery, than live splendidly by the unjust acquisition of another's Estate, being resolved, if I do Marry the Princess Respicia, to renounce all that I can pretend of Modestina's, without compelling her to entomb herself alive within the walls of a Monastery, much less to force Liante's Genius, which he hath so oft professed to me to be averse to Learning and an Ecclesiastic Life, and wholly inclined to Arms and Martial Exercises: and it may happen, if of a good Soldier he becomes a good Captain, that he may make you restore by force of Arms in his Majority, what you have usurped of his during the weakness of his Minority. For my part I will not mingle the Good with the Evil; that is, what I have justly acquired by the King's Bounty, with that which you shall rake together by such unjust practices.  
This discourse, said Mieslas, is the Child of your Scruples, and proceeds from the little experience you have yet in Worldly affairs. You think it is but to open the Sails and receive the Wind of Favour, as you have done hitherto; But if once Fortune knit her brow, you will catch at what you can, and to uphold yourself you will grasp with both hands as well as others. But I perceive through the ashes of the counterfeited coldness, which appeareth in your Speeches, certain coals that are yet burning in your Breast for that Modestina, whom you call your Wife, although she was no more joined to you in Heart then in Body, according to your own confession, since you acknowledge never to have consented but with your Lips to her Marriage; And you are so simple as to consider Liante as your Brother-in-Law, although he hath not the least relation to you.  
I say still, answered Iphigenes, that I never was greatly in love with Modestina but my Friendship can admit of no out-vier: For, if our Faces tan insensibly by being in the Sun, and  are perfumed by lying near sweet odours, it is impossible but that the long education you have given us together, should have planted in my Soul the roots of affection, which makes me desire her happiness, and detest that which doth her mischief; I may say with much truth, I love her as my Sister, and by the same reason Liante as my Brother, and in this quality we have so often joined hands of association, that I should esteem myself a Traitor and an execrable Monster both to God and Men, If I should embrace the thought of doing them any injury. Therefore, Sir, I conjure you by all that hath any power to move your Heart, to give order speedily that no harm be done to Modestina, otherwise I will go myself to rescue her. If it be your pleasure to re-imprison her in the same Castle where she was, until the arrival of the Dispensation for my leaving her my Consent shall attend your Will, but upon this condition, that finding another Match you shall give her a Dowry according to her quality; otherwise I will settle upon her of my own Estate as much as you detain of here's, protesting to do the like for Liante, & what is more, to become their Protector in such manner against all their enemies, that I will prosecute with Fire and Sword whosoever shall do them any injury.  
I foresee then, replied Mieslas, (sparkling Fire out of his Eves) that you and I must have ae quarrel. Sir, said Iphigenes, I shall kiss your weapons and lay my Standard under your Feet, whensoever you appear; but (excepting your Person) I shall esteem my mortal Enemies those that shall attempt any thing against Creatures who are so much my Friends. If I suffer for so good a cause, I shall bless my Persecutions, and hug Death if she seizeth on me in so just an action; humbly beseeching you to excuse me, if for the lawful defence of my Friends I use these words of Precipitation, and exceed the terms of a respectful Modesty.  
I see, said Mieslas, that you speak like a Palatine in your own Palatinate; that is like a Sovereign and not a Son; But Fortune may so turn her wheel, that you will be glad to creep under the shadow of my wings, and shelter yourself under my Authority. Sir, you see that I do what You will, and I judge to be reasonable; I marry without enjoying my Wife, I unmarry, I marry again, and all this more to satisfy your desire, than follow my own inclinations; you are the Rock, I am the Polypus, I receive my colours but from you, I am as Wax to your impressions; and yet if I speak in favour of a friend, you presently cry out against my disobedience. Pardon me, Sir, if I tell you that you requite very ill the sincerity of my intentions, and that you give me cause to make use of that liberty which the Heavens gave me at my Creation; the liberty that is in my Soul, which Soul I received by their infusion, having nothing from you but this wretched Body, which I can no less than abhor, when I contemplate its misery; yet in the greenness of its youth you will bind it to a withered old Woman, whom it is fit for me to reverence as a Mother than embrace as a Wife; as if Love, which proceeds from our own choice, were the child of Duty.  
At length, (said Mieslas (who felt Choler gaining the ascendant over his Reason) you will say so much, that my Patience being too far tempted will turn to Fury and constrain me to let you see by some violent effect, how much this Language displease's me. Sir, replied Iphigenes, my sorrow is so just, and my resentments so legitimate, that if I were not moved for this outrage done to my Wife, I should be unworthy of the Name of Husband; And of friend, if I did not with all my power oppose the mischief intended to Liante. The worst that can befall me, is to lose by your hands the Life which you have given me, but to take away my honour and fidelity is beyond the power of Man.  
Hereupon Mieslas being ready to burst with rage, and thundering out no small Oaths, said; We shall see (Gallant) if Liante ever fall into my clutches, how you will hinder me from executing my will upon him. As for Modestina her innocence moves me to some pity; besides that, her Sex protects her from my choler, with the design she hath of espousing a Monastic life when you are married to this other (who is more worth than she or you) which resolution will make me treat her with less rigour, and for the present I am contented to send her back to the same Castle, whence she made her escape (but her Guards must be more careful than they were before) or else I will commit her to Aretuza's charge, who will be watchful enough of her deportments, and execute upon her as I shall command. I see that hence forwards you will follow your own fancies, and do but what you list; But in believing yourself take heed you be not counselled by a fool; For, such have only a dear repentance for their Wages. The Court hath taught you looseness, which it seems you reserved to put in practice until you came into your Palatinate, and being puffed up with his majesty's favour you take upon you Liberties against my will, by withdrawing yourself from my subjection. However, I will have patience, and making Virtue of Necessity, I will forbear, expecting the time to express my Resentments; But if you resolve not to marry the Princess, who doth you too much honour in desiring your alliance, let Heaven never pardon me if ever I pardon you.  
Sir, replied Iphigenes, We are Men only by Reason, and Reason is manifested by your Words; I am a Man of both, and I will never recede from what I promised, So that the conditions annexed to my promise be performed; the one is my dispensation, the other if she will have me in the condition I am. I would to Heaven (answered Mieslas) that the first were as ready as the second. For, in the Passion wherewith she is inflamed for you, I know there is no exile so disgraceful no condition so miserable, wherein she would not esteem herself happy to enjoy you; And for my part I think her very unhappy in having placed her affection on a subject so full of ingratitude, and who acknowledgeth so little her Love and Merit.  
After much other discourse to the same effect, they parted very little satisfied of each other. Mieslas went to see the Princess, to whom, though he dissembled, he could render no pleasing account, which put her into such distemper, as may be imagined in a Woman of her Spirit, haughty by reason of the nobleness of her extraction, eminence of her dignity, and the vastness of her Estate; besides all which being inflamed with Love, and yet who perceived through all these advantages, her affections repaid with some kind of slight.  
Not long after Iphigenes went to visit her; But to repeat what passed in this interview, were to fill these pages with Passions, which are better concealed than published, and more easily conjectured than rehearsed. All that I can say, in short, was, that the affection of Respicia made her act the part of an earnest Suitor, who indeavour's by all sorts of persuasion to charm the inclination of his Mistress; And the reservedness of Iphigenes made him seem like a Virgin, whom Modesty obligeth to express a pure indifference to those that court her, and an absolute refignation of her will to her Parent's pleasure. All that she could obtain of him, was a solemn protestation (which he often iterated) to take her to Wife, when he was released from Modestina, with this Proviso, That She would accept of him for her Husband, when he should be in full liberty of disposing of himself. Which clause was offensive to her Ears, as revoking into doubt her constancy, and the resolution which she had taken to bequeath herself irrevocably to the beautiful Palatine. Mean time she languished almost to Death, though near her remedy; and in the midst of so many occasions of delight, as his splendid entertainment afforded her, she could not hinder her sighs from discovering by stealth her grief. So, having imprisoned herself within her Closet, where she had full Liberty of expressing her thoughts, she broke her perplexed Silence with this Complaint against  

THE INCONSTANCY OF MEN.  

I Can no longer hid this torturing pain;  
Soul wast thyself in Sighs, disclose my smart;  
And since my Passion's answered with Disdain,  
Let Iphigenes know, Love broke my Heart.   

Unfaithful Iphigenes, who did force  
Thee to make show of so much fervent Love  
To me, when by I know not what remorse,  
Th' effects a perfect contradiction prove?   

But of such faithless Souls it is the use  
To make a purchase of our firm Desires,  
And by false Oaths our credulous Hearts abuse,  
And quench with Icy difrespects our Fires.   

Yet why should I be troubled at his Change,  
Since 'tis the humour of all Men to vary?  
Their Words are Wind, their Fancies love to range,  
And all their Faith is but Imaginary.   

The Constancy which they so deeply vow,  
Is but the paint of their inconstant Hearts;  
And by their Levitieses too late we know,  
They glory in augmenting of our Smarts.   

That there a Phoenix is most People say,  
But who her spicy Nest did ever see?  
And if by the Effects we censure may,  
Such is my Idol's vowed Fidelity.    
While she is spending her Breath in Sighs, and thirsting like Tantalus in the midst of pleasant Waters; Let us go see how Boleslaüs hath discharged the Commission of his Embassy. Being arrived where Liante, by Order of the Palatine, was concealed; Father, said the young Gentleman, your appearance rejoiceth me no less than Phoebus doth the World, when he chaseth away the shades wherewith the Night had covered the Face of the Earth. This last Night I had the most extravagant Dream, and which put me in the greatest pain of any I can remember; For, me thought that being escaped out of the claws of those Harpies, which I belaboured so handsomely in our Country-prison, I was fallen into the Hands of those barbarous Rustics, who searching me, bound as I was, found me to be a Woman, which bred a strange Agony in my Thoughts; For I speak really, I had rather embrace Death, than be subject to their sad Condition: And that which troubled me most, was that brutal news which Arcade brought us of the Design Mieslas had against me, which my Fancy made me believe those rascals had executed on my person. But, wakening put me out of all pain, and your arrival, unveiling all these Enigmas, will set my Thoughts at rest.  
I never was with Artemidorus of Morpheus Council, said Boleslaus, but it is probable that by some kind of transpiration, or by the means of Spirits things acted at a distance are conveyed to persons absent, and represented to them in their sleep with strange disguisements. Your Dream is but too true; for, that Liante (of whose disaster Arcade brought us notice) is no other than your Sister, who came in Man's apparel to seek her Husband, being pricked with Jealousy for Almeria; the poor Lady had made her escape out of Prison, but at Mieslas arrival at Plocens, she was apprehended for you, and delivered into the Hands of some Villains who undertook to execute what Arcade told us: But, I believe, if their barbarism transport them to the impudence of a search, finding themselves mistaken, the apprehension of being severely punished by Ighigenes will make them seek their security by flight.  
If this news doubly distempered Liante, I give him leave to judge who knows how sensible to a Bother that's full of honour, is an affront offered to his Sister: Besides, considering how much more precious the Skin is then the Shirt, the danger whereunto he saw himself exposed by the rigour and proximity of Mieslas, agitated his mind with no small perplexities. He would have inquired divers particulars concerning Modestina, but Boleslaüs could inform him no farther than what he had learned by the relations of Menochius and Arcade: Only he assured him that Iphigenes intended an exemplary revenge against those inhuman instruments of his Father's cruelty, if they attempted any outrageous act upon the person of her who was so dear to him. And as for him, that he came purposely to let him understand, that the Palatine would expose his own Life in his defence against the rigours of Mieslas; by whom he need not fear to be surpised, as well in regard Iphigenes was more powerful than he in his own government, as that Mieslas could not learn where he was, those same Gentlemen whom he had seen in the Forest, being still in the opinion that he was Almeria.  
Notwithstanding all these reasons, fear made so hot an alarm in the poor Gentleman's Heart, that confidence could find no admittance. He was too well acquainted with the imperious and brutal humour of his Tyrannical Guardian to trust him, the experience of his long imprisonment and unworthy treatment formerly, represented themselves feelingly to his Memory. Insomuch that thinking his only safety was in his heels he determined by withdrawing himself secretly out of that Province, (where he had passed so many perils) to secure his person from the violence of that Tempest. Nevertheless he prudently dissembled his resolution to Boleslaüs, lest he should divert his design by persuasions, or oppose it by the authority of Iphigenes. Insomuch that after some other discourse, Boleslaüs (thinking that he had sufficiently pacified his thoughts by the assurance of Iphigenes protection) took leave of him to return to Plocens, whence he promised to give him frequent intelligence of what passed.  
But Liante, who studied nothing more than to be out of Mieslas reach, easily accomplished the design of his security: For, not being Prisoner in that Castle, it was no difficult matter to steal away from those, who were commanded to defend, not to detain his person. And doubtless it was not without the suggestion of some good Angel, that he so suddenly took the resolution of leaving that fatal coast, which was no less dangerous to him, than Scylla and Charybdis are to those Mariners that sail through the Sicilian Sea.  
For, whether Mieslas would revenge himself upon that imaginary Shepherdess for the liberty which Iphigenes took in speaking to him, or whether he conceived that she was the main obstacle that hindered him from answering Respicia's desires, being moved thereunto by her instigations, he set so many Engines to work, that in short time he learned where that Castle was in which Iphigenes concealed that supposed Mistress. And it being an hard matter to keep long undiscovered a thing done in the presence of many; whether Pomeran out of zeal for the Palatine's honour desired by that means to divert his friend from that Passion, which he esteemed ridiculous; or whether some of the Soldiers, corrupted by money, revealed the secret to Mieslas; he stole away from Plocens in the Night, and being well accompanied he marched to that Castle, he introduced himself cunningly under the Name of Iphigenes. Being entered he asked for Almeria; but the inhabitants answering him that Liante was no longer there, he thought they mocked him: The Master of the house on the other side thought Mieslas mocked him and began to grow angry to see himself braved in his own House by persons whom he knew not, only they had made use of the Palatine's Name to facilitate their admittance. Mieslas fearing lest, during those debates, the party whom he came to seek might by some subtlety be evaded, commanded his followers to search diligently every corner of the Castle. But neither Liante nor Almeria could be found, for they were both retired to a place unknown as well to the Governor of Plocens, as the cruel Palatine of Podolia.  
Day had no sooner opened the watchful Iphigenes Eyes, but being informed of his Father's nocturnal chase, and fearing lest he should take his Turtle in the Nest you may imagine what perplexities disturbed his thoughts. But at length Love gaining the ascendant over all other respects, made him presently take Horse, and having assembled as many Gentlemen, besides his Guards, as could not but overpower the Party which attended Mieslas, he marched with all speed towards that Castle, resolving to defend his Friend against the violence of his Father. Undoubtedly their encounter had been very bloody, if he had found Liante taken: For, what would not our Amazon have done for the price of such a victory?  
He arrived at the Castle just as Mieslas, after an exact Search, was coming forth. In his heat Iphigenes would have charged his Father's Troop without further Examination, being determined to rescue Liante, or lose his Life: But Boleslaüs tempered that impetuosity, telling him that before he came to so desperate an effect, he should first consider the certainty of the Cause. Then ask some of his Father's Attendants if Liante was taken, he was answered, that Almeria was not to be found. Passion having too much overbalanced his senses, I care not for Almeria (said Iphigenes) so that Liante be free, You may well think (said Boleslaus in his Ear) if Almeria be not taken, that Liante is safe enough; For, they go both one way, and under the same .  
But when he advanced towards Mieslas, that meeting of the Father and the Son was like to the opposition of the Planets of Mars and Saturn, whose Aspects dart none but malign influences. Mieslas taking occasion to speak first, said to his Son; I think this is an enchanted Castle, for the People answer all by contraries; I asked for your Diana, and they toldmee that Liante was no longer there; hath your Bother-in-law been in this place then? Sir, replied Iphigenes angrily, are you come hither to search? show what Commission you have from the King to that purpose, otherwise give me leave to tell you, as Palatine of this Country, that you have nothing to do to seek either of them here.  
But if I had found either of them (said Mieslas) I should have made them knew what my Power is, and all your strength would have been too weak to have taken them out of my hands. As being my Father (answered Iphigenes) you have privilege to use these terms, But there's none else breathing upon Earth whom I should not make throughly sensible of the Power I have in the Countries which depend on my authority. Therefore, Sir, you must tell me if you have taken either of those persons; For, I will die in the place, or I will make him that hath them in keeping release them; and whatsoever you are able to do or say, nothing shall hinder me from cutting in pieces all those that accompany you, if they are not delivered to my hands: For, to suffer this breach in my Charge, and that before my Face any one should seize upon Persons that are under my Protection, is an affront which I can less endure than Death.  
This inflamed the fiery Sarmatian with such Fury, that fetching a Career he had fallen upon Iphigenes like an hasty storm, if he (who was no less dexterous than the other fierce) had not handsomely slipped aside, and let pass the impetuosity of that Torrent. Then those that attended him interposing themselves to hinder them from joining, you might have seen Mieslas foaming with rage, and brandishing his naked Sword, with threats to dip it in his own blood, (that was) in the body of Iphigenes; who having not so much as laid his hand upon the Guard of his, was resolved rather to die by his Father's hand, than draw his Sword against him.  
But as how graceless soever Children are, yet there remain's some ray of Paternal reverence in their Souls; So in the Heart of a Father, what Choler soever animates him against his Children, there is a secret Advocate which pleads their Cause, and makes the Weapons fall out of their hands. This was verified by that occurrence; for, what Passion soever transported Mieslas at the present, he was afterwards glad of those gentlemen's opposing his fury, and that they had given his Indignation leisure to appease the impetuosity of its violent Surges, being better satisfied to have killed his Son with his Tongue then his hands, and run him through with threats then with his Rapier.  
At length Iphigenes being assured by the Gentleman of the Castle, and the Soldiers, that Liante had given them the slip the day before, his mind was indifferently well pacified, but yet much troubled, that he knew not whither he was gone. So, the storm being quite blown over, the Father and Son accosted each other; and Mieslas abating not a little of his rigid haughtiness, By-. (said he swearing desperately) I think you will force me to deliver those whom I have not in my power, but if I had, you should assoon wrest the Club out of Hercules hands, as tear them out of my clutches. I bless the Heavens, Sir, said Iphigenes, that things be in the condition they are: I must confess I should be much troubled to see persons ill treated in any territories, whose preservation is precious to me.  
But, said Mieslas, may not I know if that was Liante? Sir, answered Iphigenes, that equivocal appellation deceive's you; it is Almeria, who having put on Man's  to go a Hunting, and do violent exercises with more Freedom and Activity, calls herself Calliante, which name I imposed upon her in an humour, it signifies Fair-Flower. What, Fair-Flower? said Mieslas, indeed she did well to vanish before I came; For, never any Hail did so much spoil in the Vineyards, as my Blows should have done on Her Shoulders, if I could have laid hold on Her.  
With some other such like passages which wanted not Quips and Jarring words, they reentered the City of Plocens, Iphigenes having always his hand upon his wound, that is, his thoughts continually returning to his Loss of Liante.  
The Pilot that in the midst of dangerous Rocks is agitated by a raging Tempest, and from whose Eyes the horrid shades of Night do hid the twinkling flames of his directing Star, is not in greater perplexity than our Iphigenes, not knowing which way to steer his course in pursuit of his dear Liante. With what an Eye did he behold the Princess at his return, esteeming her the principal cause of all these troubles? He carried himself with such indifference towards her, abating so much of those Courtesies, and Compliments, whereof he was esteemed the only Master, that it was much the despite of seeing her affection so ill recompensed, had not cured her of that wound which the Beauty of Iphigenes had made in the Centre of her Heart: But alas! it was incurable, since neither Time, Absence, Cruelty, nor Disdain, the sovereign remedies of that Disease, were able to assuage the torment of her languishing Pain.  
Mieslas very unsatisfied with his Son's deportments, resolved to departed next Morning for Podolia, as well to give orders concerning the affairs of his Charge and Family, as to cause Modestina to be more strictly guarded, & take his Daughter Clemencia with him to Court, there to attend the Queen until the Prince Cassin should marry her. And the Princess Respicia settled her resolution to return to the Court more in love than ever with the perfections of Iphigenes, but less satisfied with his Courtesy. Only Hope (which never leaveth us in the midst of the greatest disasters) somewhat appeased the tempest of that lady's thought, by the assurance which Iphigenes confirmed to her of making himself her's, assoon as his dispensation had restored him to himself.  
The same Night she went from Plocens, Iphigenes found under the Carpet in his Chamber a note, the Characters and sense whereof accused the hand and invention of Respicia; all the contents were amorous complaints and exclamations against inconstancy, but no subscription, nor any particular address to him; yet he needed no Oedipus for the expounding of that Riddle; he plainly saw that she complained of him, but he feared less that despite would cure her Love, than to see her flames increase by the Ice of his neglect. Let her be pleased or displeased, said he within himself that concerns me little; For, sooner or later her error must be manifested: and coming at length to understand how unable I am to answer her desires, that knowledge will make her lose all farther hopes. Oh! that my misery consisted only by being in her Prison, than my disease would never trouble; me, for any mean medicine would be able to heal my wound. But the rigour of my Fate, never ceasing to persecute me, makes me love in so strange a manner, that groaning under the pangs of Death in my Martyrdom, I dare not express my sufferings. Oh! if in the presence of the Object which ravished me, and which is now ravished from me with so much cruelty, I had not the confidence to declare my condition and my smart, how should I do it in his absence, and such an absence as is to me an absolute loss; since in my disaster I am yet so unhappy as not to know where he is? Ah! Liante, could you have the Heart to steal yourself away from the person in the World which love's you most, without leaving me the consolation of being advertised where you were retired? For your flying and my following should have been in the same path; and if you had flown before as the Lightning, I should have come as close after as the Thunderclaps.  
Judge by this discourse how forcible is the attraction of inclination. Iphigenes was no more where he was, but where he loved; and as he knew not where that was which he loved, he knew not well where he was himself; like an Archer that shoots without seeing the mark, or one that runs a race without knowing where to end his Career. So great riches and such high honours as environed him, were but as many burdens to the wings of his desires, he would have esteemed himself more happy, if his condition had been more miserable.  
To repeat his Exclamations against the severity of his Father, (who not satisfied to have persecuted him from his birth, seemed to aim at nothing but the ruin of his contentments) would be superfluous. What recreations soever Pomeran, and his other friends invented to mitigate the sense of his Affliction, nothing had the power to divert him from his Melancholy muse. Being deprived of the Aspect of the Star of his desites, nothing but obscurity and confusion possessed his thoughts.  
At length after the revolution of some days, consumed in a comfortless discontentment, having received no answer from the several places whither he had sent to inquire after Liante, at a time when he least expected news, he received from the hands of an unkown Messenger a Paper wherein he read these words.  
LIANTE'S Letter to IPHIGENES.  
Since the Fortuen of your Family, and the Misfortune of mine, have conspired to make me perish, be not displeased (dear Brother) that I go to seek in the Wars an honourable Grave: the edge of Mars' Weapons cannot cut so deep, but that it will yet be more favourable to me, than that which the rigour of your Father, (insatiable of my calamities) hath designed for me. You conceive (I presume) my meaning, therefore I shall not express myself in any other terms, lest this Paper should blush at that, which cannot be related with any Face, under which remains the least drop of generous Blood; nor projected but by a Soul that's absolutely Brutal, it were too little to say Barbarous. This Reason is sufficient to justify my flight, which I never would have undertaken without your privity, could I have given my Soul as much confidence in your Power, as I had of your Will to protect me; and could I have banished from my apprehension the just distrust I conceived of the fury of that inhuman Tartarus. The greatest displeasure I have, is, that before the Death, whereinto I am going to precipitate myself, I could not give you the last ADIEU, and assure you that my Affection to you shall survive my Ashes, and that the coldness of Death shall never have the power to lessen its agreeable ardours. If I have not deserved to Live near you, and in your service, at least it shall be for your service that I die thus destant from you; too too happy in this last endeavour, if I could make you see the oblatition which I shall Sacrifice to you of my one Life. I know that this is the intention of Mieslas; and that I can do nothing through the whole course of my Life, that will be more agreeable to him than to end it; and thereby sat his extreme covetousness of having that little fortune which my Father left me. Oh Heavens! if the resigning of my whole Estate to him, would purchase me the happiness of enjoying freely your presence, how well satisfied should I be? Let all Riches, the causes of so many troubles, perish: He did well that cast all his into the Sea, saying, that he had rather lose them, than stay till they lost him. And for my part I should think nothing lost if I possessed you; but not seeing you any more, I have now nothing to lose but my Life, if it be living to spin out tedious Days, languishing in the privation of that, which we esteem the dearest of any thing the World produce's. All my Despair is, that going to the War (wherewith this Kingdom is threatened by this last commotion) I shall be constrained by the severe Law of Necessity, to embrace an interest which my own Conscience, and the general Opinion holdeth the least justifiable. But what safety could I promise myself in the King's Army, where Mieslas cannot fail of having eminent Commands? were not that to deliver myself to my Enemies in doing service to my Prince? He that hath a will to die, presents himself to the blow; such is my resolution, not to disserve his Majesty, to whom my Family oweth all its Fortune. I conjure you, if you are recalled to the Court, to make him understand the sincerity of my intentions, and assure him, that my casting myself on the rebel's side is not to maintain their interest, or foment that unnatural Fire, but to ruin and subvert their designs; at least, if my birth procure's me any power and credit among them. In mean time I bid you a long ADIEU by these Lines, less black with their Ink than my sorrow. ADIEU, Brother, no less beloved than you are lovely, and the only Idol of my Heart. ADIEU, since the unkind influence of our Stars separates us; and since I could not Live to Die at your Feet, if I Die (as I am determined) let me Live in your memory. Preserve me some place in your Thoughts, and believe that your Name, and the Idea of your Perfections shall be to Eternity the most precious Treasures of mine.  
Was not this Discourse sufficient to make our Amorous Palatine die with Love, had he not already been overwelmed with Grief? Oh sighs of Iphigenes, the Winds must be your supporters; for, no other Tongue, but that of silence is capable of expressing you. The words of this Letter were as Oil upon his Fire, and Wood in the flames of his disquiet Mind. Well, Iphigenes, you complained, that you had no news from your dear Liante, nor what Region he had chosen for his Retreat; and now this knowledge is more afflicting, than the torment of your ignorance. Poor Mortals, let us cease to wish, since our proper desires are contrary to us, and that the inflammation of our wounds increaseth by the application of those remedies, whereby we think to refresh and lessen their anguish.  
But for the perfect understanding of Liante's Letter, and to give light to the sequel of this Narration, I am enforced to make a little Digression in the History of those times, to describe the condition wherein Polonia then was.  
The Monarch of that Kingdom is accustomed to add to his Title of King of Polonia, the style of great Duke of Lithuania, Prusia and Russia, although the Knights of the Teutonick Order possess a great part of Prusia, and the Emperor or grand Knez of the Muscovites a great part of Russia; but as for Lithuania he enjoyeth it entirely, and hath reason to style himself Grand Duke thereof, in regard it is a Duchy of a very large extent. In the Sea the great Fishes devour the smaller, In the Heavens the appearance of the Sun Eclipseth the Stars, and in the World the strongest States swallow the weaker. Divers Dukes of Lithuania were chosen by the Polonians to be their King, by which means the Lithuanians having reigned in Polonia, made Polonia reign in Lithuania. For, from the time of jagellon (as yet an Idolater) who, being turned Christian, received in Baptism the Name of Vladislaüs, and married the Daughter of Lewis King of Hungaria and Polonia, that Crown continued for many successions in the Family of the Jagellons, until the reign of Sigismond Augustus, in whose time happened the event which I now relate. All which by their birth rights, being Dukes of Lithuania, were elevated by Election to the Royal Throne of Polonia: And although they jointly held those two Sovereignties, yet they were distinct, and might be separated; Not that the Polonians omitted any endeavours to unite that Country to their State, and add that precious Pearl to their Diadem; but the Lithuanians powerfully opposed them. And this was their Reason. There is no Nation nor Province so petty, but the People would be glad to have a Prince of their own Land, though in this they know not what they ask. For, being received for a Maxim by the sagest Politicians, that little Principalities are great Tyrannies, and that a Sovereignty is the more just the greater it is, Who see's not that the pettiest Princes, striving to imitate great Monarches in their Pompous Trains and Magnificence, to maintain that state are enforced to oppress their Subjects with extraordinary impositions? Nevertheless the Lithuanians, sick of this popular error, desiring always a particular Duke, would never consent to an union with the Polonians. Insomuch that during all the forementioned successions, very few years passed without some insurrection and revolting in Lithuania, to keep in breath the valour of the Polonian Gentry. And at the same time Liante took this resolution to perish in the Wars, the Palatines of Troc and Minsca, being returned mal-content from the Court, made a League offensive and defensive against the Polonians, and hooked into their Confederacy, besides those of Kiovia and Polocia, divers Castellains of other Palatinates; in a word, the rising was in a manner universal through all Lithuania.  
Liante had no sooner made his addresses to the Palatines of Troc and Minsoe, chief instruments of this Commotion, but he was received by them with respects answerable to his Birth; the Palatine of Minsce protesting that he had always made profession of a singular friendship to his Father. They were presently Cousins, and Liante entrusted with places of great command, before he had passed through the Military Discipline and Obedience: Like Themistocles banished, he blessed his misfortune, seeing himself raised on a sudden to those honours which he so vehemently ambitioned. He troubled not his thoughts to penetrate into the depth of the Cause; it sufficed him, that he had met with an employment wherein, by the effects of his valour, he might make appear the Greatness of his Courage.  
Iphigenes being certified of Liante's being among the Rebels, (although his Love pleaded an excuse for the other's Despair) could not comprehend how that generous Soul should fix upon that resolution of taking Arms against his Sovereign, which he held the unworthiest action any Gentleman wellborn could be guilty of; For, in effect the Sunbeams are not more inseparably concomitant of Titan's lustre, than the Nobility ought to be of Royalty.  
Mieslas had no sooner settled the private affairs of his Family, with those which concerned his Public Charge, and remitted Modestina to the guard of his Wife Aretuza, but upon a Summons from the King he repaired speedily to the Court, giving order that his Daughter Glemencia should be brought shortly after him, whom he placed at her arrival among the Queen's Maids of Honour. The Lord Castellain of Cracovia (who is above all the Palatines of that Kingdom, and one of the principal persons of State) was made General of the King's Army, and Mieslas Lieut. General.  
The Princess Rospicia (lest her Iphigenes should be diverted by the Functions of War, from answering her pretensions, after she had obtained his Dispensation) dealt so with the Queen by the intercession of some Ladies near her person, and her own persuasions, that she resolved to entreat the King to repeal the beautiful Palatine from his exile; whereunto, after some consideration, he condescended; being informed besides, that he being much afflicted at his so long absence from Count, was determined to seek a glorious Death in the Bed of Honour, rather than train so obscure and discontented a Life. And being overcome by the lady's importunities, he dispatched a Messenger to him with Letters so favourable, and full of such charms, as had been capable not only of drawing Diana out of the Woods, but the Moon out of her Sphere. But this kind invitation, which would have ravished Iphigenes with joy, could he have enjoyed Liante's company; without him, seemed inconsiderable and irksome. Therefore he forthwith returned an answer full of respect and humility to the King, with no less expressions of the Greatness and Gallantry of his Courage in these Words.  
IPHIGENES Letter to the KING.  
Most Gracious SOVEREIGN,  
I Should esteem myself unworthy, not only of so many Favours which render me your Creature, but also of beholding the Sun, (who is the image of your Bounty, as you are that of God) if Fortune now presenting an occasion, to make appear the devotion of my Heart to your Service, and the zeal of my fidelity, I should plunge myself in the Delights of your Court, whilst others are mounted in the field for the defence of your Royal Authority, against the Insolence of the Rebels. What would those envious persons say, whose Calumnies have for so long time deprived me of the Honour of your presence (the only felicity of my Life) or rather what would they not say, if in this public occurrence, I should not give some testimony, that I am not so desirous of receiving your Liberalities, as to deserve them by my endeavours, and the effusion of my Blood? which are but slender proofs of the boundless affection I have to serve you. Permit therefore, gracious Sir, by whose Munificence I enjoy both my Honour and Estate, that I may expend this, and employ that for your Majesty, to whom I am so far engaged, that although I should sacrifice my Life in your Wars, I should not requite the least of those Obligations, which render me Eternally your Debtor.  
Scarce had he by this answer waved the enticements of the Court, but a Surcharge (shall I say of Affliction, or importunate Affection?) opposed his determination; it was a tedious, but loving Letter from Modestina, adorned with the Flowers of so plaintive a Rhetoric that Iphigenes heart was much more moved at those sad Contents, than alured with the King's invitations; yet having paid her with a like excuse, he continued his preparations for the War.  
The Palatine's power is so absolute in Polonia, that when they command the Drums to beat for any Expedition, all those in their territories, who are obliged to the exercise of Arms, must presently be in a readiness to march. Besides this Authority; Iphigenes being of a very obliging and liberal disposition, in short time he raised a considerable party of as gallant Horse, as any were in the whole Army. Mieslas used the like diligence in his Palatinate; but being of a greedy tenacious humour, and more ready to take from others than impart any thing of his own, his Levies were not comparable to his Son's, who met him at the Rendez-vous: And although they were ill satisfied enough of each other, yet at that time they trampled under feet all private considerations, to apply their united forces to the present service of the Public, and their Prince.  
The revolted Lithuanians not daring to encounter the Royal Army in the Field, sheltered themselves under the bulwarks of the strongest Holds then in their possession. So that after some slight skirmishes, the Loyal Party besieged the Mutineers in their chief City named Minsce, situate upon the River Nepor, which the Ancients called Boristhenes. Liante amongst others had cast himself into this place with Olavius Palatine of that Province, and Bogdales Palatine of Troc his Confederate, besides divers Castellains and Gentlemen of note. This City was strongly fortified, and well stored with Provisions, and all necessaries requisite to maintain a Siege. And as Despair redouble's the courage of those who know the unjustness of their cause, there was not any of those Factious Spirits, but resolved to suffer the utmost of extremities rather than surrender.  
Olavius had retired within those Walls his whole Family, Wealth, and as I may say, all his Fortune. Whilst the Royal Army were drawing their Lines of Circumvallation, the Rebels made Sallies daily, and alarmed them with hot skermishes; and sometimes sent Challenges for single Combats.  
I should swell this Volume too much, if I stood to relate the particulars; therefore, not to tyre the Reader, I shall only mention some persons principally concerned in my History. But first I must crave leave to say, that the Planets of Mars and Venus, who do so frequently interchange their glances in the Heavens, have such powerful influences upon Earth, that it seems the one hath no sooner cast his Aspect upon any Moral, but the other by some agreeable Sympathy, takes possession of the same Object. And in effect among those who make profession of handling a Sword, it seems that the wearing thereof would not be fortunate to them, if it were not employed for the consideration of some Lady; as it is commonly seen, that Gentlemen expose their Persons to most eminent dangers, to give testimony of their Valour in favour of Her whom they serve.  
Liante, who till then had lived in exceeding restraint, seeing himself in full liberty of his desires, was easily induced to the natural inclination he had to Love. Olavius, among divers other Children, had two Daughters, whose Beauty deserved observation: But the younger had a great advantage of Nature above her Elder Sister, who was inferior to her in all things but her age, wherein she surpassed her by many years. The one was full-ripe, and in a condition that seemed visibly to demand an Husband. The other was a Bud not quite blown, yet discovered something that promised in her season all the excellences of a perfect Rose, but as yet so green, that her years might have dispensed the hastiest of her Sex to render herself under Hymen's pleasing yoke; her humour was childishly vain, and more apt to give then receive Passion, her Judgement being yet insusceptible of any.  
It was Liante's Fortune to be caught with this bait; betwixt seeing her and being taken, there was no great interval. His Birth and Estate, which he hoped to recover by Olavius means gave him confidence enough to aspire to that alliance, and the merit of the Object contained captive but too many attractions to his desire. Nevertheless he hide his Fire under the Ashes of discretion, expecting a fit time and opportunity to disclose his intentions.  
Clemencia Sister to Iphigenes possessed no such charms, as could oblige him to much Constancy; her fidelity only having moved his Heart to a reciprocal amity: but in regard the Despair of possessing her, by reason of Mieslas cruelty, and the Prince Cassin's research, forced him to relinquish that desire; he thought more of being revenged of that savage Palatine of Podolia, than of seeking her alliance, being the rather incited thereunto by Despite, seeing his Sister Modestina upon the point of being repudiated by Iphigenes. Upon these considerations he suffered the inclinations of his Mind to bend under the yoke of this new Captivity, suppressing however his flames within his breast, allowing nothing to outward appearances, but what Modesty and Decency might permit.  
Whilst he was contriving projects for the conquest of this Rachel, Olavius studied how to engage him in his alliance, by giving him the Leah: It being the custom in these days, as well as in Laban's time, to marry the Elder Daughters before the younger, Age, Reason and Decency requiring no less. Olavius having formerly been familiarly acquainted with Liante's Father, and knowing to how great an estate he was heir (though Mieslas unjustly detained it from him) thought it no small advantage to have him for a Son-in law (notwithstanding his disgrace) which he could not have hoped for, if Fortune had been more kind to him. Therefore to make him fall into his Nets, he received him, as yet all wet with his Shipwreck, into his house, cherished him as his Son, and rendered him all the endearing Offices, that could be expected from a tender Father. His Table, Horses, Attendants, and his Purse, he might command with as much freedom as himself: So that Liante feeling his generous heart o're-charged with so many Obligations, meditated nothing more than Olavius service, and how best to comply with his disposition, that he might see he had not sowed his favours on an ingrateful Soil.  
This Palatine of Minsce had a Son, whose tender youth might have excused him from the use of Arms, had not his high Courage invited him to Martial exercises for the defence of his Father's Fortune, then engaged in the Party of the Revolters. Him Olavius commanded to render so many, and such respectful devoirs to Liante, that at length those Courtesies (which would have won the most untractable of Spirits) absolutely charmed our gallant stranger's noble Heart, and laid the foundation of an inviolable friendship betwixt them.  
Already the desire of dying was half quenched in Liante's Mind, and the Ambition of living to establish his Fortune, and serve Amiclea (so was Olavius younger Daughter named) wholly possessed his thoughts. And through the door of this Love entered another ray of Glory, tickling his aspiring Heart, which inflamed him with a desire of conquering that Michol by the death of many of her enemies.  
Whilst he consumed in this ambitious impatience to signalise his valour by some honourable Combat, Oloria, Olavius eldest Daughter, suffered a no less torment, but of a contrary quality: For her Eyes having fed too greedily their sight with the delicacies of Liante's Countenance, that sweet Idea slipped into her Soul, and there ingraved itself with so deep an incision, that it was beyond her power to efface it. Besides this inclination (which she dissembled as much as possibly she could by the privilege and innate Modesty of her Sex) when she had an inkling from her Mother, to whom Olavius had communicated his design, that they intended to marry her to Liante, you may imagine with what joy her Heart was dilated.  
Upon this assurance she let her thoughts take Wing, and restrained her desires with the less caution, because the end of her pretensions was honourable and lawful; and passing somewhat beyond those Limits of Discretion and Modesty, which a fervent Love is easily persuaded to exceed, she prevented his Courting of Her with extraordinary caresses, which made his Heart recoil as fast as she advanced; According to the general custom among Men, who never eagerly pursue any, but such as fly them, and contemn those that meet or follow them: And it is likewise the Order of Nature and Civility, that Ladies should make themselves be served and observed, until of Sovereign's Marriage tendereth them Subjects: Those that do otherwise have found the direct means to make themselves the Fable and laughingstock of all that see and know them. But to what extremities doth not that Passion, which blinds the discreetest Eyes, reduce the firmest and most resolute Souls?  
Liante, who acknowledged himself highly obliged to her Father, for his favourable treatment, and her Brother for his Courteous respects, could hardly constrein his humour from letting her understand, that those affected attractions, and too fond endearments were not pleasing to him. She used all the Plots her Passion could invent, to accost him, but he shunned her encounter by such studied evasions, that they seemed rather to proceed from the casualty of occurrences, than any subtlety of his. This cast the poor Oloria into perplexities beyond expression, and inflamed her desire to excesses unimaginable. And as if Liante had premeditated to consume that passionate admirer of his perfections, the more she importuned him with her unwelcome kindnesses, the more he addressed his Courtships to Amiclea, whom though he feigned to love only for divertisement, her Image was imprinted in the Centre of his Heart. Which possessed Oloria with so devouring an Envy, that it deprived her Soul of all sort of contentment and repose; I might style that torment of here's Jealousy, if she had ever communicated her affection to Liante, and he given her any hope of reciprocating her flames; but no such correspondence having passed between them, methink's the name of Envy doth better represent her pain, understanding but too well, by the faithful report of her Looking-glass, the advantages Nature had bestowed on her Sister above her; and seeing Amiclea preferred before her by him whose senses she desired to captivate, and render susceptible of her resentments.  
Prudence and Decency permitted not Olavius to break the Ice, and offer his Daughter to Liante, lest that might give him occasion to think that he intended to sell his favours to him, and press him with a bond which ought to tie none, but those that are willing. Polemander (so was Olavius Son named) who would have been very glad to have had him for a Brother-in-law, that already professed to be his friend, desired nothing so eagerly as to see Liante's Eyes turned towards his Sister Oloria; But what Gins and Nets soever the Fowler's use, the Birds do not always light where they could wish. Thus Liante was esteemed by her whom he neglected, and adored her who had not yet Judgement to discern his Desert, nor recompense his Love.  
In this condition to divert the cares, which disturbed his thoughts, by the importunity of the one, and the insensibility of the other, there being every day occasion of action, he watched for some opportunity of rendering himself remarkable by his valour. Few days passed without some desperate Sallies, Skermishes, Assaults, or surprisals, wherein Liante was continually one of the forwardest to charge, ad last in the retreat: And divers single Combats were fought betwixt particular Gentlemen, wherein the besieged were sometimes conquerors, sometimes conquered, according to the chance of Arms.  
Liante intended to challenge Mieslas, and take an honourable Revenge of the unworthy outrages which he had received from his Barbarism; but Olavius (who tendered his preservation as his own Son's) advised him first to make his trial upon some other, lest undertaking a Combat with too much unadvisedness he should not come off with his Honour. At length having obtained leave (not without much persuasion) of the chief Commanders, he put on a suit of black Armour embellished in the extremities of the Joints with fillets of Gold; and having chosen in the Palatine's stable an Horse of the same colour, caparisoned with black Velvet enriched with a golden Pearl, and all his furniture of the like trimming, he sent a Trumpeter forth to invite any Gentleman of the Royal Army to break a Lance, and unsheathe his Cimeterre, in favour of the Lady whom he chief honoured.  
Upon this invitation appeared in the Field, mounted on a stately Steed, more white than the newly fallen Snow, a Knight of an admirable presence, covered from the Head to the Knees with an Armour of refined Silver, so curiously wrought, that the value of the Mettle, though pure and precious, was surmounted by the rarity of the Workmanship. The harness of the Horse was set all over with plates of burnished Silver, which made a show like so many several Looking glasses, according to the motion of the Palfrey, no less courageous than full of graceful pride; a Milk-white Plume shadowed the Torse of his glittering Helmet, and floated in agreeable waves upon his shoulders: His Port was full of sprightlie Activity, in his Countenance he seemed another Mars; and his Carriage made appear less fierceness than Courage. Liante could not have picked out a more worthy Adversary to content his Vanity.  
Scarce were they come within sight of each other, but the Trumpets on both sides sounded; and the Champions, having taken space enough to make a full Career, encountered with such Violence and Dexterity, that sitting as  as Mountains, their Lances (being broken to the very Handles) sent their splinters into the Airy Region; then casting away their Truncheons, they ended their course, in so exact and handsome a manner, that it seemed rather a Tournament than a Combat: And to conclude with their Swords what they had begun with their Lances, they both drew and rejoined upon their manage; but having both Armour of proof, they hacked a long time before either of them received any wound. At length the white Knight thinking to cut Liante over the Beaver with a backblow, his Horse curvetting received it upon his Head, the pain whereof made him rear on end, beating the Air with his Fore-feets ready to cast his Rider.  
But that which troubled Liante most, was to feel the reins in his hand and the bit out of his Horse's mouth; for, his adversary's Sword having cut the headstall, the Bridle fell presently from him. The fiery-spirited Beast, which could neither be tamed nor guided by him that backed him, enraged with the smart of his wound, running full gallop cross the field, carried Liante towards the besieger's Trenches. He, who would rather have embraced Death from a generous enemy's hands than fall into Mieslas power, seeing the unruliness of his Horse, leapt nimbly out of his Saddle, and returned on Foot to present himself to the Silver Knight, who pursued him full-speed.  
But when his Adversary was come within hearing, a clear voice out of the Silver Helmet pierced his Ears, saying, Knight, I will not make use of this advantage which Fortune hath given me, true valour is not to be tried upon such unequal terms: Liante (who gave himself for Dead, imagining that his Enemy came with such fury to make his Horse dance upon his belly) received a new Life, when he heard the beloved voice of that person whom he esteemed above all Creatures breathing. So the white Knight had scarce set foot to ground, but he in the black Armour bowing his Knee, and lifting up his Beaver, cried aloud; Brother, as it never was my intention to offend you, so I will not defend myself against you; although I should give you my Life, I should not conceive that I had satisfied the least of those Devoirs which I own you.  
By this you may know it was Iphigenes, who being no less desirous of Glory, than Liante of putting himself in credit, had undertaken this Combat in that white Armour; and upon Liante's words he presently replied, My dear Brother, it is you that have overcome me; yet alas! you are ignorant of your victory. But this is no place for us to dispute of Courtesies, lest we should be suspected of some private intelligence and treason. Rise quickly, and let us give notice to our several Parties, that after knowing each other, our long education together having rendered us Brothers by Alliance, we would not renew the tragical spectacle of Eteocles and Polynices, nor change into Horror the Admiration which we desired to breed in the beholders of our Courages. We may confer secretly in the Night, or interchangeably make known our intentions by Letters, and other means which subtlety will suggest to our inventions, for the advancement of his majesty's interest: And to the end we may have no advantage of each other, return you to the City upon my Horse, which I give you, I being sure to have yours restored me, in regard he hath taken his course towards the Quarters where I have a Command.  
Liante took Iphigenes advice; so the two friends parted to the great astonishment of the Enemies, who observed these passages at a distance. But when they understood that the Combat, which they had so gloriously begun, before they knew each other, was terminated, after their discovery, by the force of their ancient friendship, which snatched their Arms out of their hands, there was not one but rather commended them for that generous affection, than condemned them for want of courage, deploring the uncivil condition of civil Wars, which constrein sometimes, in like Occurrences, friends to murder Friends, and Fathers to plunge their Weapons in their own Blood.  
Only Mieslas, (whose Rigour could not be satisfied with less than the ruin of Liante's Honour and Life) gave out in all Companies that he had basely begged his Life of Iphigenes, against whom (such is the blindness of Fury) he murmured and expressed much displeasure, that he had not made use of his advantage to rank Liante among the number of the Dead. And in regard the motion of that sordid interest, which made him so thirst after Liante's Blood, could not be published without his own disparagement, he covered it with the Cloak of the Public Cause, endeavouring to make that poor Gentleman's revolt more odious than the Lithuanian's, he being a Native of Polonia, and owing all his Fortune to the King's munificence: But the barbarous Sarmatian was not so ready to declare the occasion he gave his Ward to take that desperate course, and in those commotions to secure himself among the Rebels. Nay, his Brutality transported him so far, that he stuck not to tax his own Son of intelligence with the Enemy, because he had left Liante living, when he might have killed him, or at least made him Prisoner, which he rather desired: Not contented to resemble Hogsheads, which (being filled with new Wine) bedaub themselves with their own froth, he thought that during this revolt of Liante's, was the only Harvest-season for him to reap his Estate, by virtue of the King's Letters of confiscation: Which he obtained at his first request, His Majesty being willing to oblige Him, whom he esteemed one of the best Politicians in his Army; and besides to terrify, by this example, any other Polonians from assisting the Lithuanians in their Rebellion.  
This Grace made Mieslas triumph, and boast that he had done Liante more harm with a sheet of Paper, than his Son with his Sword. Fame with her airy trump at length conveyed these Bravadoes to Liante's Ears, which kindled a rage in his courageous breast as unutterable as insupportable; Insomuch that returning to his former Despair, he persuaded himself (considering Mieslas as his scourge) that Honour obliged him to take away that Wolvish Gardian's Life, or lose his own. In this resolution he sent him a Challenge to fight with him on Horseback in the view of both City and Army. At first Mieslas scoffed at his Childish indiscretion (as he termed it) slighting him as much as the grand Apollo in the Metamorphosis did Citherea's little Son. But at length feeling his reputation pricked, and his Choler incensed by some notorious reproaches and braving Language in the Letter of Defiance (whereof Liante had dispersed divers Copies through the Camp) he resolved to dispose himself to chastise that peremptory Boy publicly, as a Pedagogue would correct his Scholar: These terms Passion made him utter against his youthful adversary.  
This Challenge, being so divulged, could not be unknown to Iphigenes, who would not be dissuaded from being a Second; as well to purge himself of that stain wherewith his Father had endeavoured to blemish his fidelity to the King, as to preserve the Life of him that gave him his, (in case Liante should gain the advantage) or Liante's, on whom his own Life depended, in case Mieslas should have the better, which was most probable. I will not stand to particularise the several equipages of these Combatants, there being this difference betwixt Tournaments and Duels, that in the former every one study's what is most magnificent and pompous, not what most serviceable; in the later the richness or curiosity of the Armour is not so much considered, as the excellency of the temper. However they were not negligent to show themselves in good order, and upon the best Horses they could purchase.  
Iphigenes having sent back Liante's black Horse, obliged him by that action to return him his, lest that exchange might breed any suspicion of intelligence: yet they took others for this second encounter, that breathed Fire out of their Mouths, & threatened Death with their Looks. Mieslas appeared in guilded Armour, upon a pied Horse of a size bigger than ordinary: Iphigenes was mounted upon a Sorrel, well managed and ready, armed as before, but with a coat, after the Sarmatian fashion, over his Armour, all embroidered with Gold.  
Liante marched proudly out of the City upon a stately Bay horse, trapped with black, in the same Armour he wore in the former Duel, but with some different trimming: His Second, who was the young Polemander, seemed rather dressed than armed, Inexperience making him go to this shock as to a Wedding. His Armour was Gras-green, artificially set out with scales of burnished Silver; a delicate Plume of white and green, curiously mixed, o'er shadowed all his Casket; his Horse of a Dapple-gray colour, (whose Make and Manegement was fit for a Festival show before Ladies than exploits of War) was harnessed with a Caparison of green velvet, enriched with a Silver imbrodery; his Deportment spoke him rather a spruce Courtier than a resolute Soldier: In sum, he was a fit Subject to honour the triumph of Iphigenes victory. The glory of making his essay of Arms against the King's Favourite, & a Palatine of so eminent esteem in Polonia, heightened his courage; and his vanity promised him a success that should make him touch the Firmament with his Crown. But Heaven which disposeth the events otherwise than Men propose them to their fancies, made this Gallant a prey to him whom he thought to devour; and Iphigenes, who was Courtesy itself, became to him like the Lion of Samson's emblem: For, instead of swallowing him, he gave him Life, and in the Effects of this Valour he made him feel the proofs of his Civility.  
For, assoon as they were come into the Field, and the Judges had assigned the ground, every one resolved to do his best, except Mieslas, who carried himself negligently in that Action, as if he disdained to measure his Sword with a Novice, or had been to play at cuffs with a Boy. At length having taken the space that was convenient for their Horse's full Career, they charged each other with such impetuosity, that the banks of Boristhenes returned by frighted Echoes the sound of their Palfrey's thundering Feet, and his Waters hasted away for fear. Iphigenes, whose dexterity on Horse back was beyond comparison, having hit Polemander in the right place to make him quit his Saddle, carried him so furiously from his Horse to the Earth, that with the force of the fall he seemed to have digged his own Sepulchre in the Sand. The weight of his Arms, the violence of the Shock, together with the tender Age of that young Astyanax, cast him into a Trance, which depriving him of the ability to rise or move, made him appear, as if his Soul, not daring to withstand so invincible an adversary, had left his Carcase as a trophy to the Victor's glory.  
Iphigenes seeing him in no fight condition, turned his Eyes whither his Heart was already flown; But Heavens! what saw he? his Father in the greatest danger that could befall an Enemy; For, as he gave his Horse the half-turn, to set him in his Career, the right stirrup broke, which discomposed his Port, and rendered him incapable of executing what his Vanity made him believe unquestionable: For, the heaviness of his Armour weighing him down in the Saddle, that inconvenience hindered him from ordering his Lance, which glanced without effect under Liante's Arm, who having dexterously directed his, where the point found entrance, the thrust was so violent, that had not Mieslas been well fixed in his seat, he had doubtless held Polemander company: However it bore his Body so far backwards, that his Crest almost kissed the Crupper, and the Lance flying in pieces, a splinter entered into his Horse's shoulder, the pain whereof disabling him for such an encounter, put his Rider beyond his schoole-play, and in no small apprehension. Liante without losing time, having cast away the truncheon that remained in his hand, drew his Sable, and his Horse being swift of foot and ready at hand, he presently gained the Crupper of his no less arrogant than inhuman Enemy; and began to deal blows so thick upon him, that you would have thought you had heard all the Cyclopes beating upon one Anvil. Who ever saw a furious Bull tormented with the stinging of a Gad fly; or a great wild Boar lugged by the Ears by a young Mastiff, may the better fancy that lusty Sarmatian assaulted by the generous Liante. At length the little stone cast down the great Colossus; it happened thus.  
Mieslas seeing his Horse useless, and one Leg hanging without a stirrup, thought to alight, judging that he might better defend himself on Foot, than in that incommodious posture; but having his Sword in his hand, and being encumbered with his Armour, his other foot remained engaged in the stirrup; The Horse who had not yet lost all his fury, perceiving this disorder, began to kick and drag Mieslas after him some steps, which so crushed and bruised him, that he thought he had been at the last period of his Life. Then was it in the brave Liante's power to take a full revenge of all his barbarous deal, by making his Horse trample his unworthy Soul out of his conquered Body. But Iphigenes, seeing the danger of him from whom he had his Being, leaving his adversary on the ground, ran presently to Mieslas, whose deplorable condition sufficiently implored his succour: At length he stopped the fugitive Horse, and leaping from his own, he cut the stirrup that trailed his Father's Body, which was in little better case than Polemander's. He was already without motion, and questionless had taken his leave of the World, if the pious Iphigenes, opening his Head-piece, had not given him some Air; which he no sooner felt, but he recovered Breath, not without voiding blood at the Nose and Mouth in great abundance.  
After some passages of the triumphing Liante, the desire of preserving Mieslas drew these words from Iphigenes Mouth (which his high spirit would never have permitted his Tongue to utter, if his own person had been reduced to the greatest of extremities) Liante, it is now in thy power to rid thyself of both Father and Son at once, if thou permittest thy Vengeance to despise my Friendship: but know that Heaven never leaves Ingratitude unpunished; content thy Ambition with the advantage the Chance of Arms hath now given thee, without abusing by Insolence thy Victory; and if thou art as good a Friend as a stout Champion, go secure him whom I have reduced to the same danger as thou hast my Father. Brave Iphigenes, replied Liante, thy Friendship, which shall never die in my Soul, shall always have more power over me than the Outrages of that Tyrant; It is pity that a Son so full of Virtue should proceed from a Father so worthy of Hatred. ADIEU, and know that thy Will is the Chain of my Freedom.  
This said, he passed as quick as a flash of Lightning, spurring towards Polemander, in whose pale Face Death had already placed her Ensigns. Having loosened his Helmet, he saw his Eyes begin to open, as if he came from the other World. But not to spend any longer time in this Relation, at length every one returned to his Quarters the best he could, leaving the judgements of the Spectators suspended upon the strangeness of this encounter; which gave scope enough for discourse on both sides. But let this suffice, that all acknowledged the hand of Heaven upon the Arrogance of Mieslas, had compassion on Polemander, esteemed the fortunate Valour of Liante, but extolled to the Skies the Courage and Piety of the Palatine of Plocens.  
To express the rage that seized Mieslas, when (come again to himself) he represented to his thoughts the Affront he had receiven in the Face of the whole Army, were impossible; Eloquence vows terms to relate the Excess of his Fury. Sometimes he accused Heaven as the Cause of his Disaster; Sometimes he condemned his Servants for bringing him that Horse; Sometimes he was in the humour to die, rather than survive such a disgrace; Sometimes instead of acknowledging the courtesy he had received from his Enemy, he seemed as if (like a Torrent or Thunderbolt) he would force through the Walls of the besieged City to tear the heart out of Liante's Bosom. He that hath e'er beheld a Bear, wounded with an Arrow sticking in his Flank, beat himself against the Shaft, take it in his Teeth, and striving turn it within his Entrails, hath seen an emblem of Mieslas Passion, which bred such torment in his mind, as cannot be expressed but by the Name of Despair. All bruised as he lay in his Bed, being hardly able to move, he studied memorable revenges against him to whom he owed his Life. But leaving him to foam out his Choler, let us see what Liante does within the City, where there were not Laurels enough to make him Crowns, nor Praises significant enough to extol his Merit.  
The indisposition of Polemander, somewhat disturbed the Inhabitants rejoicing; but the public Good always overbalancing the disaster of any particular person, it did not diminish the applauses of his Gallantry; Besides, he having no other harm than what he received by his fall, the care of his Parents, his own youth and good constitution soon restored him to a condition that promised more Hope than Fear of his recovery.  
Mean time, whilst the Brother's Body was healing, the Sister's mind impaired; For, Jealousy, which is a Love that's sick, increased in Oloria's Heart proportionably as Liante rendered more evident Demonstrations of affection to Amiclea. And now his thoughts being swelled with the glory of this Victory, what durst not he promise himself? as you may well imagine, his Mind being naturally ambitious, he easily suffered himself to be carried upon the Wings of the Wind, feeling a pleasing murmur of popular praises buzzing in his Ears. Neither was he deceived; For, Olavius conceived such an opinion of him, that thence-forwards he deliberated at what rate soever to make him his Son-in-law, imagining that that commotion being ended, it would be no hard matter for him to procure a revoking of that confiscation, which Mieslas had obtained of his Estate; or rather to make it one of the Articles of their Capitulation, if they should come to treat with the King for the repose of Lithuania.  
But as the Heart being seated in the middle of the Breast as the Centre of humane Bodies, leaneth however more to one side than the other: So although Liante composed his Countenance and Gestures, and ordered his Speeches in such manner, that he seemed to share his respects equally betwixt the two Sisters, it was impossible for him to hinder his Eyes (which are the Windows of the Soul) from betraying his inclinations; For, the presence of the Object beloved to a Lover as the Needle of a Compass, touched with a Load stone, is to the Arctic Pole. His looks discovered his thoughts, which sallied out at the same portholes, that gave Entrance to those Desires, which, like thiefs, stole away his Heart. At length (Amiclea being yet too young to understand the Language of his Eyes) Liante, unable to support any longer the torment he endured by retaining his Passion prisoner, it happened that the same day he broke his tedious Silence to declare to his new Idol the Sacrifice he offered her of his Affections, poor Oloria unfortunately arrived to Shipwreck her Hopes against the Rock of Disdain, discovering to Liante her Jealousy, before she had disclosed her Love.  
I will not stand to repeat their Discourses, loath to fill up this Paper with frivolous words, contenting myself to say that Liante's aversion against Oloria was much augmented, when he had read the malady of her Mind, and that impertinent humour, whereby she seemed to impose Laws to his Will, as if she had already gained an Empire over his Soul. And being very ingenious (without disobliging her otherwise) he made her understand in handsome terms that he cared as little for her Affection as her Jealousy, and that his sight was not yet so bad, but that he could discern Objects more capable of contenting his contemplation. But he continued his addresses with much fervency, and daily increased his Endearments to Amiclea, who though yet young enough not to resent the assaults of that Passion, which is so contagious, that few are exempted from its infection, even of those that most condemn it; yet she was not composed of Ice, nor any insensible Materials.  
That inclination of inflaming Lovers, which is so natural to the Female Sex, sharpen's Virgin's wit betimes, and rendereth them subtle and full of Malices before their Age can afford them a perfect knowledge. This ray of Honey, those enchanting words and obliging devoirs opened Amiclea's Eyes, and gave her considerations for Liante, which before she did not conceive. But as that Sex is born to dissimulation, the clearer she saw the more she feigned to be blind, and hearing his Complaints, she made as if she understood them not. Insomuch that after he had displayed the secrets of his Heart, and discovered the honour and integrity of his pretensions to her, she studied to deceive his Passion with a more reserved carriage in his conversation. Mean time this artificial behaviour, covered with the cloak of innocent Childishness, was such a bait or gi'en to entrap Liante's heart, that he cherished not his own thoughts, but when they represented to him the Object which gave them Being.   

The Eleventh Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Iphigenes and Liante's private Meeting and Conference. Iphigenes Plot to reduce the Lithuanians, and extinguish Liante's affection to Amiclea. He is taken Prisoner (with his own consent) by Liante. The Lithuanians exultation at this Prize; their treatment of Iphigenes. The Palatines of Troc and Minsce's Wives and Daughters fall in Love with the beautiful Prisoner. Their endeavours to enjoy him, and supplant each other. Iphigenes Jealousy, and Distemper at Liante's passionate Research of Amiclea. Love persuades Iphigenes to reveal his Secret to Liante; Bashfulness dissuades it. Amiclea, enamoured of the fair Prisoner's perfections, offers to procure him Liberty, and escape with him. His civil refusal of her Courtesy. The Divertisements of Iphigenes in his Prison. He relates his own Story to the Ladies under borrowed Names. His Apprehension at Liante's Moral, or Exposition of his Fable. At Liante's and the company's importunity he transvests himself to the admiration of both Men and Women. Mieslas is enraged at his Son's captivity: Offers to Ransom him: Sends Liante a Challenge. His Answer. The Resentments of those in the Royal Army, and at the Court, for Jphigenes imprisonment. The King's Letter to the Rebels in his behalf. Their Consultations and Answer. Iphigenes discreet Advice, and Letter to the King. The Conflict of Love and Virtue in Melindra's breast. The old Palatinesse's Jealousy of their Daughters for Iphigenes. Liante'sVmbrages of Iphigenes for Amiclea. Their Speeches, after Liante had discovered his Passion. Liante departs discontented. Iphigenes distemper at his distaste. The contention of Jealousy and Honour in Liante's heart. Finding no invention to get Iphigenes handsomely out of Minsce, he returns to give him an account of his endeavours. Their Conference. Liante thinking Iphigenes was his Rival, construes all his protestations of Friendship to a contrary sense.  
DO you not think it time that Iphigenes should come to cast Water on that Fire, lest the flame grow unquenchable? If Oloria was tormented with her Jealousy, Iphigenes received no  treatment from his Passion; only Amiclea, without engaging her own Liberty, subtilely triumphed over Liante's. But what remedy shall we find for Iphigenes, to mitigate his ineffable sorrow for being deprived of Liante?  
He that compared the Fire, which causeth Love, to Thunder, was not mistaken in his Analogy: For, the effects of both are marvellous, the one bruises and consume's the Bones, without making the least contusion in the Flesh, and preserving the Scabbard, melt's the Blade: the other hath Subtleties and Inventions beyond the reach of thought to dazzle the Eyes of the most circumspect. Nothing is impossible to him that Love's: Iphigenes practised such secret and facile Intelligences with Liante, that if they had been both in the same Camp, they could not have had more convenience to communicate their thoughts. In Day time their Conference was by Letters, which, fastened to Arrows, they shot into certain places at prefixed hours; In the Night they found opportunity enough to Discourse together, without apprehension of being over heard by any witnesses. Once, after divers other particulars. Iphigenes regretting that Peaceable time, wherein they enjoyed in the Forest of Plocens with more freedom each other's conversation, and wishing to see the like season, that he might in his own government impart his honours, and estate to his dear Brother. Of what Peace, and what pleasure (replied Liante) do you speak? For my particular I do not think that in all my Life I ever felt a greater disturbance in my thoughts, than what glanced into my Breast from the penetrating Eyes of Serife; For, those extravagant illusions so overwhelmed my Reason, that I thought I should have lost it in a Labyrinth of conceptions so confused, that I may call that disaster happy which released me out of that error. But now my Condition is quite altered; For, if during that Peace; I felt a War within myself, in this War I have met with so great a Calm and so sweet a Peace, that I hold nothing so delicious as the double Prison wherein I am.  
What Prisons are those? answered Iphigenes. The first, said Liante, is the enclosure of these Walls, but the second, and most agreeable, is an Object whose Captive I am; but my thraldom is preferable to any Liberty. At this word a cold sweat trickled along Iphigenes Face, and hardly could he forbear in falling to a trance; yet recollecting his Spirits, he pressed Liante to tell him, what Object that was to whom he had so dedicated his services.  
Hereupon Liante, as if he had resolved to discompose the frame of Iphigenes intellect, and absolutely turn his Brain, began to make him a lively description of Amiclea's beauties; which was less welcome to his Ears, than the news of approaching Death. But when he added, that those perfections being not yet come to Maturity, that green fruit was so tart, and crabbed that it rather set the teeth on edge, than gave any delight, and by reason of her tender years (which rendered her not only insusceptible of Love's flames, but incapable of acknowledging his affection) that in the same place where his desires had their Birth, his Hopes did find their Funeral, Iphigenes recovered breath. And, as every thing hath two handles, and its counterpoise, when Liante added to the Passion he endured for Amiclea, that which he made poor Oloria suffer, our amorous Palatine was yet better satisfied; imagining that this Contradiction would hinder Liante from making any great progress in Amiclea's affection.  
But from this Fever, he fell into an hotter, the storm beginning afresh with more impetuosity in his thoughts, when he heard Liante protesting, that the Jealousy of the One served as a spur to incite him to be more eager in the research of the Other, wherein he believed his endeavours would not be fruitless, in regard of the particular advice he had of Olavius design to give him one of his Daughters; and that his last Victory had reduced him to that point, that he was contented to grant him his own choice, hoping to make the confiscation of his Estate be revoaked by their treaty with the King for the appeasing of those tumults in Lithuania.  
See how Jealousy transport's the best composed Brains. Iphigenes, who had all his Life-time shown so much Discretion, and Reservedness in his Actions, suffering himself to be carried away with the stream of Fury, broke forth in these Words: Ah! Traitor, and the most defiled with infidelity of any the World produces? Is this the promise so oft repeated in the solitudes of my Palatinate, when thou sworest (but with Oaths which flew away with the Winds) never to love any but me, and never to suffer thy Soul to entertain any other Flame? Is it thus thou wilt now renounce the too too easy, too too credulous Serife? That Serife, who hath no Eyes but to contemplate thee, and who love's her Heart only because of thy Image which is so lively imprinted in it. That Serife, who hath been more tender of preserving thee, than her own Life, who would have raised thee to greater Honours, and Riches than thou canst hope for in any other place. And fool, as she was, she turned all thy Discourses to her own advantage, and fed her vanity with the praises wherewith thou extolled'st her perfections, with as much treachery as flattery; And after this should she esteem the fidelity of any Man? May the Heavens afflict her with some new torment, (if there be any greater than that which thy disloyalty makes her suffer) if ever she put's confidence in such faithless Souls. Thou shouldst have killed her upon her Father's body, rather than have reserved her to hear such language as is less supportable than Death.  
If Liante was surprised at this Speech, let him judge that hath remarked the conduct of Iphigenes hitherto. He thought he dreamed, or that Iphigenes raved. For, to what purpose should he bring again upon the Stage, the sweet illusions of the Forest of Plocens, when Almeria was beloved by Iphis, or when Calliante acted the passionate Lover of Serife? At length, Brother (said he) What is in your mind? I think the Charms of that enchanted Forest possess you yet, or (which is more likely) you sleep, as Lions do, with your Eyes open. You may be confident that I shall never relinquish (but with my Life) that Friendship which I have sworn to you as my Brother, and the dearest Friend, I have or ever shall have: And I believe no less of you, than that you are likewise so desirous of my Good, & advancement (according to the testimonies you have so often rendered me) that you will not hinder me from embracing a good Fortune, when it thrust's itself into my Hands, after having persecuted me from my Cradle, and made me feel in the Current of my days the most rigorous Effects of her Tyranny. Indeed if I saw any other door, than that which is now opened before me, whereby I might get out of the Dungeon of my Disgraces, I would most willingly pass that way; but if you consider the condition of my affairs, you will see that I am like a drowning Man, that catche's at any thing he can reach (not always what he would desire) to save himself from perishing. Your Father, my Persecutor, hath rendered me so odious in the King's sight, that I have more reason to fear his indignation, than hope for any favour in Polonia; which makes me resolve either to lose myself in the overthrow of Lithuania, or if it raise itself again out of its ruins, thereby to repair those of my Fortune. Would to God I might be permitted to spend my days with you; For, if I enjoyed that happiness, all my ambitions might expire, knowing with the power you have, that I could expect no less than great effects of your exceeding Love. But did not you take notice that your pleasant raving made you speak like a Woman, as if that Serife to whom I vowed my Affections, were any other than yourself? So, you might make me believe that I am Almeria. See how fare our past follies transport us, agreeable follies however, since they please you; but very bitter to me, whom they had almost bereft of sense.  
This long reply having given Iphigenes some leisure to appease the tumults of his Passion, and re-consult his Judgement, the fear of having too unadvisedly discovered his condition, quickened his spirits speedily to repair that fault, and crush the Scorpion upon his sting: I spoke (said he) in my Sister Clemencia's Name, to whom you have so unworthily falsified your promise. Whereunto Liante thus answered: Wherefore do you accuse me, Iphigenes, of a crime whereof your own Soul is guilty, breaking so cruelly that Faith, which you had so solemnly sworn to Modestina, to comply with the barbarous inclinations of your Father, who makes you change Youth for old Age, Beauty for Ugliness, a Virgin for a Widow, your Equal in years for one that may be your Mother? and all this to satisfy his Avarice and Ambition, and augment your Titles with the Style of Prince; as if the King's Favour, which your absence hath not quite extinguished, could not raise you high enough, and heap as much Riches upon you as you can desire.  
Hereunto Iphigenes could make no reply, but to end all those debates, he wished, that one of them two were a Woman. Not so, said Liante, for, I love you too well to desire you so great a mischief, and for my own particular, as long as Heaven give's me strength to hold a Sword in my hand, I will hinder Mieslas well enough from razing me out of the rank of Men. See then, answered Iphigenes, how much I exceed you in Friendship; For, you would not change your Sex for Love of me, and I would be glad to be a Woman to stop your inconstancy. Whilst we amuse ourselves with these Chymericall, and impossible imaginations, said Liante, we dissipate our Spirits, which should rather lend their attentions to more serious thoughts, and employ them with our endeavours to procure the public Peace, thereby to find the assurance of our private intentions.  
This said, they parted, Iphigenes returning so perplexed in mind, that he knew not how to find a thread to guide him out of the Labyrinth of his confusions. At length after long musing, sometimes concluding, then altering what he had concluded; Sometimes resolving, then revoking his Resolutions, being agitated with more several motions than the Sea hath waves, Love, the true Mercury of humane spirits, suggested an invention to him, that could not proceed but from a soul extremely passionate.  
Was it not a marvellous piece of sublime Policy to join the public Peace with his private Tranquillity, and the service of his Sovereign with the contentment of his own Soul? But in this design it was requisite to proceed like Watermen, who turn their backs to the place whither they row: For, Iphigenes conquered by suffering himself to be conquered, and made appear by a memorable example of Love and Fidelity, that there was a Zopyrus yet living in the World.  
The Spagirists in seeking the Union of Essencos, have by the Sympathies and Antipathies found out the dissolving of all natural Bodies, how solid foe're they be, and this by the means of some slight ingredients, and with a simple dew: Spiritual Chemistry taught Iphigenes not only to dissolve that factious Body, which form the revolt of Lithuania, by giving himself entrance into Miesce, there to sow the powder of Gold with the dew of sweet words and fair promises: But also to unite himself to Liante, the enjoyment of whom he esteemed more desirable than the possession of a Crown. However he thought it not fit to communicate his secret to Boleslaüs, lest opposing the coldness of his Age and Judgement, against the ardours of his Youth and Passion, he might divert or thwart his enterprise; neither did he judge it expedient to reveal it to Liante, although he was to be the Effecter of his design, as he was the Cause. So, having well adjusted his measures he determined, for the safety of his Country, to do like Curtius, (who cast himself into a Gulf) by delivering his Person into his enemy's hands, there to endeavour their Reunion and Submission to the King's Service, and at the same time divert Liante's design for Amiclea.  
At their review Iphigenes, seeming to have seriously deliberated upon what Liante had proposed at their last meeting, said, that he disapproved not his re-search to Amiclea, considering that he hoped to re-enter into the possession of his Estate by that alliance; But if he would contribute his industry to pacify those Commotions of Lithuania, by reducing the Rebels to their due obedience to his Majesty, He assured him that he would not only re establish him in his inheritance, but render him (next the King) the greatest and richest Nobleman of all Polonia and Lithuania. This Proposition was specious enough to ravish the heart, and open the Ears of the ambitious Liante; But observe in what consideration the Point of Honour is to a Generous Spirit.  
Your promise is very great, answered he, But if, to obtain all that you proffer, I must commit (I will not say) Treason or Disloyalty, but the least Treachery, move me no farther; For, might I be rewarded by the purchase of a whole Kingdom, I would not violate my Faith, nor offend the Hospitality of Olavius, who by his Courtesies hath heaped upon me so many extraordinary Obligations, that I must remain his debtor all my Life, and at the last yet die insolvable. Besides I have such confidence in the Gallantry of your Soul (dear Brother) that I believe a base action can have no admittance into your thoughts; For, I know how high an esteemer, and how jealous a preserver you ever have been of Honour. Iphigenes having commended the generosity of Liante's answer, told him, that he was so far from engaging him in any dishonourable act, that he would first remit his own Person into his Hands, to open him the way they were to follow for the reducing of Lithuania unto the King's Subjection.  
Liante having asked him the particulars of that enterprise. First, (said he) after your having worsted my Father, I would have you have the honour of taking me Prisoner, and then being with you I will teach you the secret to content all those who have so much obliged you; and without injuring them or blemishing your own honour, make you the most considerable Subject in this Kingdom.  
The pledge that Iphigenes offered was so precious (giving himself in pawn to the Lithuanians) that Liante believed his Heart intended no other than what his Tongue declared. Therefore having importuned him to give a more particular instruction of his Design; Brother (said Iphigenes) The King before my coming to this Siege, commanded me expressly by Letters to return to Court, assuring me that I should be better welcome than ever; and that at length the Sun of Truth had pierced and dissipated the Fogs of my Envier's Calumnies: Nevertheless the desire of rendering him some remarkable testimonies of my Fidesity in the occurrence of this War, made me prefer the toils and perilis of this Martial Life before the delicious Recreations of Cracovia. This assurance of his majesty's Affection, begets in me an hope, nay a Confidence, that (his favour to me being not extinguished) upon the first notice of my imprisonment, he will at what rate soever purchase my releasement, either by ransom, or by force. Now, what fairer opportunity can you desire to regain your inheritance than this? especially when I shall have certified His Majesty that not any desire of revolting or disserving him, induced you to associate yourself with these Rebels; but the fear of falling into Mieslas Hands, and the Despair whereinto his cruelty reduced you. I will do more; For, being fully informed of his majesty's temper and intentions, my fancy promiseth me that I shall dispose the two Palatines (now besieged) to lay down their Arms, and restore Peace to this Province, with such advantages to their Families, and the whole Country of Lithuania, that the Generality of this Nation shall have cause to extol their Sovereign's goodness, and They be particularly obliged to his Clemency and Liberality.  
How should Liante not be overcome by the charms of these Propositions, which were so far above his Hopes, that he scarce durst soar to them with his Desires? And although he advised Iphigenes (if he were not very well assured of the King's affection) not to expose himself to that adventure, nothing under Heaven being more uncertain than the inclinations of Men, and especially of Princes, whose chiefest tye is their Interest: yet he was constrained to yield to Iphigenes entreaty, which overbalanced his persuasions. Then they agreed to contrive the taking of Iphigenes so, that (although it was premeditated) t should seem casual. Their plot was thus.  
Iphigenes for certain days successively should ride pckeering, and discharge his Pistols against the Gates of the City (as Gentlemen usually do to show the gallantry of their Courages and Activity, trusting for their retreat to the goodness of their Horses, and swiftness of their Course;) after which, at a prefixed time, Liante should set some Soldiers in Ambuscado to invest him. Which was as handsomely effected as ingeniously projected.  
At this news represent to your imagination the fury of Miestas, the trouble of the Royal Camp; and on the contrary the rejoicing of the besieged, and with what Laurels they loaded Liante's head. Olavius being no longer able to contain his joy, ran to embrace him, and extolling his fortunate Valour to the Skies, he offered him the choice of his two Daughters, with such a part of his estate as he would please to demand for a Dowry.  
Liante, well contented with those triumphs and trophies, which they erected to a Victory that cost him so little, perceived thereby how vain the judgement of the World is, and that as punishments are not always inflicted on the most wicked persons, but the least fortunate; So Glory was an infamous Courtesan, which cast herself not always into the Arms of the most valiant, but most successful: And to incite Olavius the more to press him to accept a Present, which he so passionately desired, with an artificial modesty he pretended that he was unworthy of so much favour, being at that time a distressed Gentleman, banished from his Country, and dismantled of all his Estate by an injust Confiscation.  
Whereupon Olavius, falling of himself into the Nets, replied, That the restitution of his inheritance would be the least part of the brave Prisoner's ransom, wherewith he had enriched their City, and that he ought not to stick upon that consideration, in regard he had always respected him more for his Virtues than his Fortune, esteeming it more advantage for his Daughter to have a Man that wanted means, than means that wanted a Man. But Liante demanding time to deliberate more at leisure upon that business, desired him to think of treating Iphigenes with such Civility, that he might have just occasion to commend rather than complain of Lithuania. Which was performed in such honourable manner, that if the gallant Iphigenes had been Governor and Master of that rebellious City, he could not have received greater respect. He had no other Prison than his own Parolle, Liante rendering himself pledge for his fidelity.  
Since the beginning of the Siege, the two Palatines of Troc and Minsce had secured their Wives, Children, and what they had of most considerable value in the Castle, as the place of greatest safety; there Liante likewise had his Quarters, near which they conducted Iphigenes into a Chamber, so richly furnished, that in the King's Palace he could not have been lodged more splendidly. Good Cheer was no more wanting than all sorts of Games and honourable divertisements. The company of Ladies was his ordinary attendance; For, they had no sooner tasted the inevitable charms of his conversation, but they became more liquorish and greedy of it, than Bees are of Flowers, or their Hony-combs.  
If that beautiful Face (which shown to Mortals the image of the Angels) had infected with its pleasing Poison the Court-Ladie's hearts, imagine you how those of Lithuania could be exempted from that delicious contagion; you would have said, that this new Sinon had been come to bring the Grecian fire to reduce that Ilium to ashes, and that being a prisoner in Body, his design was to enthral and torture all their Minds. For, that agreeable venom, which is swallowed by the Eyes according to the variety of Spirits, conveyed into their hearts such secret flames, and those flames caused such torments, that he seemed to have the same destiny as Sejanus Horse, who put all places in disorder where he was received.  
Bogdales' had a Wife so advanced in years, that the blood of her veins (which ought by the course of Nature to have been Icy) seemed exempted (by the benefit of her Age) from those ardours, which are only excusable in youth; with her was retired into that Castle a Daughter, which He had married to a gallant Nobleman of Lithuania, who not delighting to be enclosed within the walls of that besleged City, kept a flying Army in the Field, accompanied by the Palatine of Trod's Son, his Brother-in-law. His merit was sufficient to have made all the Affections of his Wife terminate in his Person; but the Perfections of the beautiful Prisoner so perverted her Reason, that as the Primum Mobile by a violent motion drawe's all the other spheres after it, she could not hinder her Heart from following her Eyes, whose too inconsiderate looks betrayed the licentiousness of her thoughts. So that the Mother, and the Daughter were both taken in the same snare at once.  
Neither could Olavius Wife (as wise and reserved as she was) withhold the motions of her Mind from Dancing the same brawl. And as if that rare Object had been form on purpose to ruin the constancy of the most continent, few saw him without taking pleasure to behold him, and few beheld him without strange alarms and agitations of Spirit. That fire must be very fierce which presently takes in green Wood  
Amiclea, who never yet felt any resentments for Liante, that deserved the mentioning, was presently all inflamed with that Fever, whose fits are so agreeable, that those who resent their Heats and Colds fear nothing more than to be cured of that Disease. On a sudden of ignorant she became knowing in the Art of Love, judging by the pains which she endured, that which she had caused to Liante's Heart. Oh Liante you will be henceforwards but a difformed Esau, this white Jacob will supplant you and you will see the ruin of your pretensions arise from the same ground whence you expected your establishment.  
Only the poor Oloria remained constant in her affection to him who despised her; For, her Soul being filled with the Idea of that first Object, was insusceptible of any other impression. If Iphigenes had been a Man, what vanity would he have conceived in his thoughts, seeing himself the blank of so many desires? But being such as Nature had created him, those Roses were to him but Thorns, and those Adorations Importunities.  
To relate the distemper which these new Passions bred in those weak Brains, I dare not undertake, much less to express the confusions that embroiled their thoughts; For, Love, Envy, Despair, Jealousy, Shame & Desire, were as many Worms, or rather Vultures that gnawed continually their Breasts. Even the Men that were too attentive in the contemplation of that Angelical Face, had not their minds free from disturbance; For, believing him a Man, they wished him of the other Sex, that they might in some kind settle their complacency on his perfections: And the Ladies who thought him not a Woman, esteemed themselves as happy to have amongst them that beautiful Prisoner (to whom they were all slaves) as the Trojan youths were to enjoy that famous Beauty of Greece within their walls. Oh Iphigenes! as those who cast artificial Fire-balls, are burnt ofttimes themselves; So among so many storms which thou excitest, thou art not without some agitation.  
With what Pencil shall I delineate the division of those Spirits? The old Ladies were ready to die with Despair and Shame, to see themselves in an Age (which according to the Laws of Nature protected them from the Tyranny of that little Boutte-feu which inflames Heaven and Earth) become Subjects to unjust and infamous Desires (whose sweet cruelty was more redoubtable to them than the pangs of Death) and be afflicted with a languishing Pain that could expect no other remedy than the Grave.  
Bogdale's Daughter, a Lady full of Honour, and who would assoon have cast herself into a Fire, as violated the Faith she owed her Husband, felt her Heart however, in spite of her resistance, tickled with that gentle Flame which so many persons cherish, and so few extinguish; But to apply the remedy of the least Word, was a thing whereunto she would less condescend than endure the severest of Torments. Mean time the ardour of her Desires, like that in Furnaces, redoubled its violence, being enclosed, and having no place for evaporation.  
As for Amiclea, though she began to have age enough to discern, she had not enough to dissemble sufficiently her Resentments: For, a first love is like new Wine, which burst's the Vessel if it hath not vent. Whilst for Liante her mind was less agitated, it was easy for her to contain herself: But a vehement and extraordinary Passion is not so easily concealed, which made her above all the rest give evident demonstrations of her flame. Which was very excusable in her; For, besides the glory of captiving so gallant a Spirit, and possessing so accomplished a Body, what Soul is so stupid as not to be pricked with the spur of ambition, seeing a Noble person illustrated with such eminent Dignities, and accompanied with Riches that had no limits (since they were founded upon the favour of one of the greatest Kings of Europe) Besides the common desire of all young Gentlewomen to be highly and richly married, and render themselves agreeable and admirable to all Eyes?  
In sum, Iphigenes was the Object of all those Ladies Esteem, and of their attendants, as they were the Butts of his Contempt; But as they accounted themselves honoured with his company, so and conceived himself importuned by theirs. At length Oloria as well as the rest, if not in effect, at least in appearance, seemed to be entrapped in his Snares: For, whether out of a desire to be revenged of Liante's scorns, or (which is more probable) to reduce him to her affections by the sting of Jealousy, she feigned at first to love Iphigenes, and stuck not to give him several manifest proofs of her inclinations: But by little and little she engaged herself so far, that her Counterfeiting became a Reality. Which made her fall from bad to worse, and in stead of a Body run after a shadow, which fled from her: For, if she had been so unfortunate as not to be able to cast any bait before Liante's Heart, that might oblige him to set any value upon her Affection, judge you how that train could take in Iphigenes Bosom, who was so little capable not only of satisfying her desires, but of having any inclination for her.  
Thus our lovely Prisoner, the Rock and stumbling- block of their thoughts, was innocently culpable of all their pains. But he had more intricate troubles to quell in his own breast, without embroiling himself in their follies: For, he was not like the Sun, which warmeth all things else, not having any degree of heat within himself. If he bred torments in their Minds, he suffered penance for that guilt in his own. With what countenance, in your Opinion, could he behold the submissions and devoirs, wherewith the passionate Liante besieged the Heart of the disdainful Amiclea? what despite possessed him to see the Pride of that scornful Rival, who rob him of that which he esteemed most precious, the affection of Liante? and this without any other advantage than that of her habit. If you had seen him at any time contemplating his excellent Features in a Looking-glass, you would have said that he had been making a strict inquiry in that Crystal, concerning the Victory which his Beauty, in the Full, gave him over the Crescent of Amiclea's. Nothing remained in his opinion, but to unseel Liante's Eyes, and let him understand his condition, to make him quit the Passions and Pretensions he had for that unpolisht Diamond. But this was the main difficulty, which bred a disturbance in his thoughts, no less dolorous than the throes of a Woman, who desiring to conceal her labour dares not cry out in her greatest extremity. Poor Iphigenes! who shall deliver thee of these mortal anguishes?  
An ancient Historian makes mention of a Soldier, who despairing of his Life by reason of an intestine Pain, which tormented him, casting himself into the hottest of the Battle to purchase an honourable Death, received a thrust with a Sword through the Body, which broke an Impostume within, and was so favourable to him, that he found health where he expected Death. Oh how desirable were that stroke with the Tongue, that would make Liante understand what the Pudicity of Iphigenes forced him to conceal, with so much prejudice to his own contentment! Sometimes he resolved to write, and employ to that Office the whiteness of Paper, which is incapable of blushing; But representing to his more serious consideration the divers inconveniences that might proceed from committing that secret to a Letter, and its weakness in comparison of the force of words pronounced Viva voce in like occurrences, he changed that Resolution. And then, as if he would premeditate the Speech of his manifestation, the disorder of his thoughts stifled the words in his mouth, and reduced him to the terms of enduring the obscure Death of Silence, rather than prolong his Life by a Discourse, which in his own judgement he should never have the confidence to utter.  
Oh sacred Bashfulness! a quality inseparable to all well borne Souls, how thou paintest with different colours the Faces of such as are subject to thy alarms! Those wherewith the agreeable Aurora imbellisheth every morn the horizontal Line, appear not with more variety. Is it possible that Iphigenes wit so full of subtlety, and whose acquaint inventions were so esteemed at Court, should remain sterile in this occurrence, when the most important affair that ever he managed in all his Life was in agitation? In sum, we must conclude, what valour soever we admire in him, there was yet some dram of the weakness of his Sex, which hath the property of being extreme subtle in matters of small consequence, but little capable of great enterprises.  
Dispatch brave Iphigenes, and quickly ravish Liante's Heart by a free Declaration; this Pill is somewhat bitter. this Draught unpleasant to the taste, But it must be swallowed, for his good as well as yours. You possess such great advantages in all respects above your Rival, that you shall only need to unveil yourself to cover her with darkness, or do her the same affront as the Sun's arrival doth to the Heaven's meaner Lights. Let but Liante know what you are, and Farewell all Amiclea's, farewell Rebellion, and all the pretensions he hath in Lithuania. After many such debates within himself, at last he was resolved; nothing was wanting but a fit opportunity to reveal this grand Mystery.  
But whether the Jealousy of those Ladies that besieged him, or whether the Palatines had commanded them to let Iphigenes have the least private Conference that might be with Liante, lest they should plot some conspiracy, it being a Maxim of War always to distrust an Enemy; The time passed, and Iphigenes consumed like a Torch, that give's light to others, and hath nothing but darkness for itself, meeting with no occasion to make this desired Discovery to Liante. Not but that he spoke with him every day, but it was in the presence of many shee-witnesses, in whose hearing he had no will to communicate that Secret. Insomuch that in this condition he languished, being Heart burned with Jealousy, which like a devouring fire incessantly increased, as he perceived Liante more earnest, and public in his research of Amiclea, declaring himself upon all occasions her Vassal, though (her Eyes being dazzled with the lustre of the rare Prisoner's beauty) she made no great account of his services.  
It would be a no less tedious than difficult task to relate the different effects of those Lady's passions; For, if Envy agitated the old Matrons, Jealousy bred no less distemper in the young Damsel's thoughts. I shall content myself to remark only their contrarieties. The two Palatinesses strove with an envious Emulation, which should render best Offices to the Prisoner, so far forth as to let him sufficiently know, if he would have understood them, that those endearments proceeded as much from Love as Courtesy. The Palatine of Troc's Daughter managed her affection with more Dexterity; yet Iphigenes perceived but too plainly all her subtleties. Oloria less circumspect in her carriage, discovered through her simplicity so much folly, that she made Pity grow where she intended to Plant Desire. The tender Amiclea, by reason of her youth, being more inconsiderate, and by consequent more hardy, not contented with a free manifestation of her inclinations to Iphigenes, promised him to contrive his escape, upon condition that he would carry her with him and make her his Wife, in acknowledgement of the liberty which she engaged herself to procure him. But he who was more bound by his own will than his Parolle, and more imprisoned by his Passion than those Walls, although the Gates had been set wide open, would not have gone out of that place. whereinto he had invented such stratagems to enter. So that thanking her for her courteous offer (for being a Prisoner upon Parolle he would not for a World falsify his word) he left her in a continual Fever, whose violence was redoubled sometimes by Jealousy of her young Rivals, sometimes by the fury of the old, who under pretence of watching his deportments, were angry that her Age and Beauty gave her more access to Iphigenes than any other. In a word, they were like so many Archers, who shoot all at the same Mark, yet take their aim from several stations.  
Among divers other means which those amorous Ladies used to make time seem less tedious to Iphigenes, besides Gaming and Waling (whereof he had full liberty, so that he were accompanied) the divertisement of Conversation, as it was most agreeable, was most usual with them. Among other exercises of Conversation, some there are consisting of the commendable and witty invention of Words or Fancies, which only tend to an honest and recreative Communication. Some of the most ingenious of those Rivals made use of this means, to make their adored Object covertly understand divers things which the Gravity and Modesty of their condition permitted them not to disclose any other way. To this Iphigenes made Dissimulation his Buckler, seeming as if he conceived not their meaning, although he penetrated to the bottom of their Hearts.  
One day it happened that to entertain the Company, it was proposed and resolved, every one should tell a Story, and that He or She who, according to most Voices, could relate the strangest Evenements, should be recompensed with a Garland of Flowers, and a Kiss from all the rest of the Assembly. I should spin out the Thread of this History to a too unmeasurable length, if I should stand to repeat what every Lady and Gentleman of that Society related. Besides, my intention being only to write the History of Iphigenes, I do not think myself obliged to mention any thing, but what concerns him, or fell from his mouth in this occurrence; which was a sit occasion (as he thought) to open Liante's Eyes, and gently prepare him to receive the light of that Truth, which he desired to make him comprehend.  
So then, after it was come to the beloved Prisoner's turn to speak, and that by industrious excuses (purposely invented) he had sharpened the desire of his Auditors (whose Ears were no less covetous of hearing, than their Eyes charmed with seeing him) as if he had been overcome by the entreaties of so many persons worthy of respect, he acquitted himself of the charge imposed upon him, beginning his discourse in this manner.  
Since these Ladies and Gentlemen who have spoken before me, have embellished with such exquisite Flowers of Rhetoric the strange Evenements which they have reported as well of Men as Women, it would be a vain ambition in me to aspire to the atchivement of the promised Crown, and that delicate Kiss which is the Crown of that Crown, if my Hope flattered me not that the strangeness of the Fable I shall tell you, would supply my defect of Elegance; For, already I renounce the prize as in reference to the Ornaments of Language, and other parts requisite to the perfection of a Discourse: But whether I am too indulgent to my own Judgement, or that the Truth is such, as that it makes it preferable, I never hitherto read any Story comparable to the strangeness of what you now shall hear. For, I beseech you (worthy Assembly) Can there be any thing more miraculous, than that the same person should be both Man and Woman without being an Hermaphrodite? Consider how this Prodigy can enter into your thoughts; and if your imaginations cannot form the Idea of this Miracle, acknowledge  I proceed, that what I shall let you hear surmounteth all conception. If your Spirits were no less amazed than delighted with the extraordiary accidents you have already heard, you are to consider that those happened to Men or Women distinctly; But what Monster, in your Opinion, should he be, that without being bathed in the Fountain of Salmacis is neither Man nor Woman, and yet is both Man and Woman? But not to hold your Ears any longer in suspense, abusing the favour of your attention, my Narration shall here take its beginning.  
Then, mixing the real Story of his own Birth and Education, and his inviolable affection to Liante, with the Fable of Iphis and janthe, illustrated by the Pen of the most ingenious of the Roman Poets, He disguised all the passages so quaintly, and amplified his Relation with such eloquent Expressions, that he left all their Ears (as it were) gaping, and their Spirits suspended with admiration at the strangeness of that Metamorphosis, and the delicacy of his Language: When Liante (who perceived by their indulgent looks, that all the voices were ready to allot the Crown to Iphigenes, and that Kiss, of which (for Amiclea's sake) he was most passionately covetous) said, Ladies I oppose your Votes, and believe that the prize will be adjudged to me, if you do me Justice.  
What Justice? replied the Palatiness of Troc. Madam, answered he, that I may relate a verity lately arrived, which surpasseth in strangeness the vanity of this fiction, wherewith Iphigenes hath fed your Ears. If you allow me the advantage that Histories have of Fables, I am confident I shall win. Iphigenes no less astonished than the rest, casting his Eyes upon Liante's Face (the ordinary aim of his tenderest looks) disposed himself to hearken with attention, when Liante explained his Speech in these words (which sounded as the voice of Thunder in the Ears of the troubled Iphigenes:) Without borrowing any other personages than who are present in this Room, I will change you this Fable into an History, and by the judgement of Iphigenes himself (after I have related it) I question not but the prize will be mine without contradiction. In few words, Ladies, this Fable is nothing else but the History of Iphigenes and myself; do you not see, by reflecting upon the Names, how that of his feigned Iphis agreeth with his own, and mine with Ianthe's?  
If the roof of Heaven had seemed to break over Iphigenes head, he would have been less surprised than at this Discourse, whereof dreading the sequel more than the hand of Death, he endeavoured to divert it, or at least remit it until another time, and that he had conferred in the interim with Liante, who (he believed) had sounded the depth of his intentions. But seeing that he could not withstand the Torrent of the lady's curiosities, who pressed Liante with no less importunity to speak, than he conjured him to be silent; at length he was constrained to make use of that authority which his Friendship and Quality had always given him over that beloved Brother-in-law, forbidding him under pain of his indignation to proceed any farther until he had spoken two words with him, which he esteemed of no slighter importance than his Life.  
The grave and stern Countenance, with the sharp and angry tone, wherewith Iphigenes pronounced that threat, stopped the current of Liante's Speech no less miraculously than a little Remora makes a tall Ship stand still in the midst of the working Ocean, though the winds had filled all her Sails. Iphigenes without losing time, presently demanded of Liante in private, after what manner he intended to recite that History; and having learned that he would only apply it to their recreative transformations in the Forest of Plocens, not a little pleased that Liante had penetrated no farther into his Secret, serenity returned into his Face, the panting of his Heart ceased, and having recollected his Spirits he said to the Assembly; My Laidies, that which Liante is about to tell you, is indeed a real History, but it seems as like a Fable, as my Fable hath th'appearance of an History; it is the relation of his Follies and mine, wherein I am confident you will find nothing of such admiration, but that its strangeness will excite you rather to laughter than astonishment. Therefore without despairing of the Crown, and the Favour that is to follow it, I shall let him speak, beseeching you not to ground your Sentence upon the Art of his Eloquence, which is able to illustrate the meanest Subjects, and make a Crystal pass for a Diamond.  
This said, they having all retaken their seats, composed their gestures, and prepared their Ears for attention, Liante repeated all the Mistakes, Disguisements and pretty Contrivances practised for their recreation in the Woods, in the same manner as hath already been described; whereunto he added the transvestment of his Sister Modestina, and how she had been treated by command of the barbarous Mieslas. But having run through this long Navigation, without touching any Rock, just at the Haven's mouth he cast Iphigenes into a new perplexity. For, coming to mention the non-consummated Marriage of Iphigenes and Modestina, and the pretensions of the Princess Respicia, adding the Passions of some other Ladies in the Court, and the report that was spread through all Polonia of his affections to the Shepherdess Almeria, he represented Iphigenes so chaste, so bashful, and so little inclined to Women, that he made him appear not only as the virtuous Hippolytus, but so like that Iphis in his own Fable, (who of a Woman was transformed into a Man) that without changing the name you would have thought he had been concerned in that Metamorphosis.  
This redoubled Iphigenes Fever, confirming his suspicion that Liante had discovered something of that Mystery, which he had always been so careful to conceal. At length Liante returning to his Passions, or (as he called them) his illusions for Serife (whom he described with terms beyond my capacity to rehearse) My Ladies (said he) To the end you and all these Gentlemen may believe me, entreat the beautiful Palatine to dress himself in some of your , (I assure myself your requests will be as commands to him) and I believe that there is not any among you, but will acknowledge that I was happily deceived; for as He is too fair for a Man, He is so perfectly handsome in a Woman's habit, that (without excepting her who possesseth me) the most amorous of herself among you all, I am confident will freely yield to Him the Palm of Beauty.  
Iphigenes hearing this was like unto a Man, who saved from Shipwreck by some sloting Board, is troubled to get on shore, the waves sometimes pitiful, sometimes cruel, driving him towards the Land, and then snatching him back again into the Sea; sometimes raising him above the Water, sometimes plunging him into their briny-bottom. For, seeing Liante's Shafts come so near the Mark of the Truth, he began to harbour a fear that his secret had been disclosed before its time: On the other side he was transported with joy to see Liante fall of himself into the Nets which he laid for him, and make so clearly manifest, unawares, the most tender Resentments of his Soul.  
Liante's persuasions so prevailed with the Ladies, that they overwhelmed Iphigenes with Conjurations to give their Eyes the contentment to behold under some of their rich ornaments the choicest Jewel of Nature's precious Treasury. Whereunto Iphigenes after many excuses condescended, to their unspeakable admiration, and the absolute ravishment of Liante's Heart, which was his only ambition, and for which consideration he was no less willing to transvest himself than they earnest to desire it, to the end he might again in that equipage dazzle Liante's Eyes, and renew in his Breast that Idea which had rendered him his slave in the Forest.  
This transformation gave birth to many acquaint conceptions, and agreeable entertainments in that Assembly; But at length the Council was called to deliberate, who was to have the prize: And it was concluded, that it could appertain to none but Iphigenes or Liante, who in stead of disputing which should receive it, contosted which should remit it to his Competitour. Their civil contention would ne'er have found a Period, if by this expedient Iphigenes had not ended it, suffering that Garland of Flowers to take place among the dress, wherewith the Ladies had adorned his Head, and giving Liante the Liberty to take the other part of the prize from their Lips. This Decree being put in Execution, after much recreative Discourse and Compliments, Iphigenes quitted his Woman's apparel, to the Ladies as well as Gentleman's great regret: For, that splendid attire so increased his Charms, that all their Spirits were enchanted with his sight: And Liante in particular felt his heart so divided betwixt Serife and Amiclea, that like a Ship agitated on the Sea with contrary winds, he knew not to which Port to steer his Course.  
But whilst we amuse ourselves too long in the Relation of what passed within those besieged Walls, we forget to take notice of what was acted without. The Besiegers advanced their Trenches, and the King's Army received daily new supplies. Yet the Besieged possessing the Outworks, and having strength and convenience enough to Sally, scarce any day passed without some notable skirmish. He that could express the trouble of the Camp, when Iphigenes was taken Prisoner, would be no bad Orator; But the fury of Mieslas, of necessity, must be covered with the Veil of Silence. For, the Love which he bore to his own Blood, to that Son, who was the Pillar of his Fortune, and the best Child upon the Earth, together with his implacable hatred to Liante, bred a strange Tempest in his Thoughts. He was no sooner cured of his contusions, and able to manage his Horse, but he made several Courses to the Citty-gates, thundering out such Bravadoes and Threats, as would have frighted People less resolute than those that kept that place. At length he motioned the ransoming of his Son; But Iphigenes, who was not yet ready to go forth, having private intelligence with Liante, made their demands be so excessive, that he, who was no less covetous than cruel, would assoon give his own blood as stand to that bargain; And imagining that Liante, was chief in fault, he sent him a Paper containing this  

CHALLENGE.  
THou owest the advantage of our last Encounter to my Misfortune rather than thy Valour; and my Disaster proceeded from a defect in my Horse, rather than want of Courage in me. Fortune, the sworn Enemy of Virtue, doth always oppose the most Worthy, it being her ordinary Custom to Favorise the least deserving. The testimonies that I have given, in so many places, of my Valour, will not permit that a Fall from my Horse should blemish my Reputation. Those that shall undervalue Me for that Mischance, will show themselves as very Fools as thou, who gloriest in thy pretended Victory, without remembering thyself, that three days before, my Son (less powerful in Arms than I) gave thee thy Life. Now, if thou hast as much Courage as Vanity, I invite thee to restore Me with thy Sword, what thou thinkest thou hast gained of Me with thy Lance. For to leave My Honour in such feeble and childish Hands, is a thing I can less endure than Death. Thou mayst come with assurance, since I pretend nothing but to give Thee thy Life, after I have conquered Thee, which I shall do without much difficulty. If thou fearest Me, and desirest that I should pardon Thee, send back my Son.   
Judge you, by these terms, of the Fierceness and Pride of that Sarmatian. This defiance ran through several hands, Liante not being able to conceal it, by reason it was brought publicly by a Trumpeter. It gave occasion of laughter to the discreetest Perusers; For, Vanity is generally accompanied with this Misery, that the more it strive's to be elevated & flies towards Glory, the deeper it plunges itself into Contempt. Only Iphigenes was discontented to see that every body blamed (though justly) the extravagance of his Father: For, as Fathers are blind and indulgent over their Child's imperfections, So Children cannot acknowledge the defects of their Parents. Those that commanded within the City would not suffer Liante to render Mieslas the satisfaction he desired by a second Combat. Which obliged him to return by the same Trumpeter this  

ANSWER.  
Courtesy obligeth me to acknowledge, that the advantage I had of you proceeded rather from your Misfortune than your Fault, and from my good Fortune than my Valour. Indeed it was not without displeasure to myself, that I spilt your Blood, since I would willingly spend mine own to spare yours, performing therein the office of a Guardian to him, who abusing the rights of Tutelage, hath violently wrested out of my hands the Estate which my Father had purchased for Me. Be assured, Mieslas, that those supreme Powers, who make use of the weakest things to confound the most Mighty, will first or last give Me a full Revenge of the Rigours which you have exercised upon mine Innocency. If I were Commander of this place, I would give you that satisfaction with my Sword, which you desire, and I am resolved to let you have, assoon as I am at my own Liberty: But being only a private Soldier, I cannot dispose of myself without my Captain's consent. It is not that I dread your Choler, for I have already learned the means to quell your Fury. The Testimonies that you boast to have given of your Valour, are below that stroke which overthrew you. I'll begin the same Game again with you when you please, after I am at my own command. I have yet the same Heart, and the same Art, and, what's more, the same Desire of giving you your Life, if you fall again into my Mercy. Although the Laws of all good Chivalry would dispense Me (without any Interest of my Honour) from fight a second time with one, who is already indebted to Me for his Life, as every body knows you are. Your Son (more happy in his imprisonment than he was with you) is not  
so much in my power as I am in his. You must capitulate with others about his Ransom. For my part I hold myself as glorious in having been conquered by his Gallantry, as it is honourable for Me to have remained Victorious over your Arrogance.   
This Answer made the haughty-spirited Mieslas ready to tear down the Heavens with Fury: For, nothing so outrageously torment's the Fancy of a Vain Man, as when the too good opinion he hath of his own desert is undervalved with contemptible terms. But there was no other remedy than making a Virtue of Necessity, and applying the Balsam of Patience to his Sore. All the brave Courages of the Army (Iphigenes being taken) seemed to be stupefied, and rendered like Bees that have lost their Sting: For the presence of that Magnanimous Palatine gave them I know not what Spirit, which animated them to generous Actions; and as if he had been the Soul of that great Body, you would have said it languished, being deprived of the Star that gave it Life. And at the Court his imprisonment was so resented, that it seemed as if the Sun had lost its Light, or at least the Daystar fallen from the Sky.  
To relate the Lady's Complaints, and especially the Princess Respicia's sighs, were as if you would count the Stars, or number the Tears of Heaven in a great Shower. The Queen herself (as discreet and reserved as she was) had no small pain to hid her Inclination under her Majestic Modesty; and not being able to contain the Natural distillation of her Eyes, she covered her particular sorrow with the Veil of the public Calamity. And the King, touched with tenderness for so dear a loss, notwithstanding his other indispositions besides Age (which is a continual Malady, and can never be cured but by the Grave) resolved to arm himself, and go in person to his Camp, if the Rebels released not his Favourite. To which effect he presently dispatched a Post to them, that they might know his Will in these Words.  
THE KING'S Letter to the REBELS of LITHUANIA.  
I Am informed that by Treachery you have taken Prisoner my Cousin, the Palatine of Plocens; you wanted but that to raise your Rebellion to the height, and draw upon your Heads all that a King can have of Thunder and Indignation. Treason, the inseparable Companion of Revolts, hath given you that advantage, which you could never hope for by the way of true Valour. But the God of Revenge, (Protector of Kings, who Reign by him, and are his lively Images on Earth) will make Me take such Vengeance on your Insolence, that if you come not to acknowledge your faults, your Punishment shall serve for a memorable Example to Posterity. You will never find any Spirit so depravedly reprobate (unless it be infected with the same Contagion that hath poisoned you) that can authorise your Arms against the Fidelity which you own Me by Nature, and to which you have solemnly engaged yourselves by Oaths: For, there is no Cause that can justly dispense any Subjects of the Obedience, which they own to their Sovereigns. But admit your Arms were as just as they are criminal, you cannot refuse to release, upon reasonable Ransom, him whom Fortune hath delivered into your hands. You are not ignorant that I love him for the esteem I make of his Virtue; Therefore let Me know at what rate you will set his Liberty, that I may content your Avarice. Which if you refuse to do, and that suddenly, know that within few days you shall see Me at the Head of mine Army, encamped before your Walls, which I will thunder down with an hundred Cannons; And if you abuse my Clemency, I shall never thence forwards express my Pleasure to you but by their Mouths.  
This was spoken like a King, and a King transported with Passion for a Subject full of Merit. This Letter was received with all the respect that true Subjects own their Sovereign; And the Copy was sent to the other Palatines, and Noblemen of the League, who kept the Field, to have their advice concerning what Answer they should return. Hereupon a general Council was held at Minsce, wherein nothing was treated but what came to Iphigenes knowledge by Liante. To say how glad he was to see what esteem the King had of him were superfluous. But not having rendered himself a Prisoner voluntarily, to be released against his Will, and fearing to leave Liante so embarked in the affections of Amiclea, that he should marry her in his absence, He searched among his thoughts what Invention he might find, either to draw Liante from among those Rebels, or remit them all into the King's, favour and mediate an atonement for the Peace and Benefit of the whole Kingdom.  
As a little salt season's a great deal of Meat, and a little Levine communicate's its spirits to a great lump of Dowe: So oftentimes one Grain of particular Interest doth much good or harm in public affairs. Who would have said that Love could suggest such devices? And who may not think that this was the only point which Archimedes demanded, to remove the whole Earth from its Centre? At length by Iphigenes own advice (whereof Liante was the secret Interpreter) it was concluded, that they should keep the Palatine of Plocens, and make him as their buckler against their Prince's fury; perchance in imitation of Themistocles, who made himself a Rampire of the King of Persia's own Son against the violence of that Monarch's rage.  
Liante engaged himself that Iphigenes should intercede for them, so that they would condescend to Reason, without prejudice to their Liberties and Immunities, for the preservation whereof they had taken Arms. Hereupon a Gentleman was presently ordered to go to the Court with  
THIS LETTER FROM THE LITHUANIAHS, TOKINK SIGISMOND AUGUSTUS.  
Dread SOVEREIGN,  
YOur thrice-humble, and thrice faithful Subjects and Servants, the Palatines, Castellains, Gentry, and Commons of your Duchy of Lithuania, united for the defence of their Lives, Estates, and Liberties, do with all humility represent to your Majesty, That they acknowledge You for their Natural Prince and Sovereign Lord, ordained by God to hold the Reins of their Empire, and that they will never decline from the respect, fidelity and obedience which they own to your Royal Majesty. Neither in effect have we taken Arms to form any Revolt (for we detest Rebellion as the blackest and basest crime in the World) but to deliver ourselves from the jyranny of our Enemies, who besieging your sacred Person, will not allow us any access to expose our reasons before Your Majesty, Whereby we have been enforced to have recourse to our Arms as an help which Nature teacheth us, for the assurance of our persons, the exempting of ourselves from their domination so insupportable to us, and the maintenance of our Rights, Privileges and Immunities, which is all the glory of our Country. Sacred SIR, It is Your Patrimony, Your Inheritance, We are Your Children, Your Natural Subjects, the Sheep of Your Flock; we most willingly submit ourselves to your Sceptre, and desire no other Liberty than that of Your Commands: But as you are just, and established by God to do us Justice, We desire no better than to be under the Yoke of your Laws, so that they be not dictated by the Mouths of our Adversaries, and that They draw them not by surprisal from Yours. Whether we will or not, we are obliged to acknowledge You for our Master, by the right of Succession which You have from Your Predecessors, and render the same devoir to Your Posterity, if Heaven blesseth you with any. Which the Polonians cannot say, for they are too jealous of their election, to bind their obedience to the Lineage of a Prince. God shorten our days to lengthen yours: But if he should call you to his Glory, and from this Earthly Kingdom to the Crown of Heaven without Heirs, Your Majesty may judge if our Condition would not be like unto that of slaves; and if the Polonians (whose voices are vendible at Elections) would not sell us to what Master they pleased. SIR, we are resolved to die every Man, rather than endure such an affront, and give away our Liberties at so cheap a rate. A glorious Death shall always be more acceptable to us than an infamous Life, and which should blemish our Names in the memory of our Posterity. For, what would our Nephews say of us, if they should find that in our days without the shedding of our bloods we should submit our necks to the Yoke of the Polonian's servitude, whom we have in former times discomfited, and reduced to shameful conditions? Your Predecessors, by the Arms of our forefathers, have gained Victories over them, which made them triumph with their Crown for the space of two complete Ages. Great KING, take notice of these truths, and that if Your Virtues have made you be elected by the Polonians, it was because they found nothing in any other State so worthy of reigning over them, as in the Throne of Lithuania. Shall their Charms gain so much power over your Spirit, endued with such wisdom and rare conduct, as to induce you to lop off with Your Sword Your natural Branches, in favour of those wild Plants worthy of so much hatred? SIR, we humbly beseech Your Majesty to maintain us in the same Honours, Prerogatives, and Liberties, as we enjoyed under your Ancestors; and that for having been always faithful to you, our recompense may not be an ungrateful bondage under a cruel Nation, which we have ever abhorred; especially since (having carried out of this Country the Bodies of our Princes, to seat them in their thrones) they have endeavoured to withdraw their Hearts, depriving us of the effects of their benevolence. If we must die, can we face Death in a more just quarrel than this, which we defend, not to the prejudice of Your most excellent Majesty, but against those Tyrants which abuse Your Facility, and the goodness of Your Royal Disposition? If Your Majesty comes in Person to our siege, what a glory will it be to us to fall under the victorious Sword of so great a Monarch, and render him our Lives to whom we own them? By this means we shall wash away, with our own Blood, the fault, wherewith we should be shamefully taxed by our Posterity, if we should be so base as to leave them this thraldom for inheritance at a cheaper rate. This we shall expect with a constant and undaunted courage. And since the Fortune of our Arms (favorised by Heaven) rather than any treachery, hath delivered into our hands a Person, who of all the Polonians was most dear to you, and who, by the virtues which We daily discover in him, makes appear the Excellency of Your majesty's judgement in the choice of those whom you will honour with your Affections: Your Majesty must give us leave to make a Rampire of that Treasure which is fallen to us, and which shall serve us as a Buckler against the violence of your Choler and Vengeance. For, when the mouths of your Cannons shall begin to express your Pleasure against our Walls, the first Gabion that we will oppose shall be the body of the Palatine of Plocens, your Creature; knowing that you bearing the image of God on Earth, will not destroy the work of your own hands, nor give yourself entrance into our City, by a breach besprinkled with the blood of a Person so considerable in your esteem. But if that hinder you not from executing your rigours, what Grace can we expect, but that of those who have lost all hopes, seeing him so cruelly treated whom you honour with your Favour? But we promise ourselves better things from the Clemency and Prudence of Your Majesty, and that as Father of Your Country, you will not procure its ruin. And although the persuasion of our Adversaries should make you construe our legitimate Defence a Crime, we are assured that Your Wrath and Chastisements will never fall upon us without the mixture of Love and Pity. Permit, Great KING, that appealing from Your Majesty to Yourself, we may obtain either an amicable Conference, to decide our Differences with the Polonians, or a free Audience at the Tribunal of Your Sovereign justice, to spare the blood of Your Subjects; And there we hope to advance such powerful Reasons, that if Might oversway not Equity, we shall gain the Cause, and give for Motto of our Triumph; The virtue of SIGISMOND hath raised him to the Throne of POLONIA, But the Love of LITHUANIA hath overcome SIGISMOND.  
To this long Declaration Iphigenes (who in his Captivity enjoyed as much Liberty as he would take) had the permission to annex his Letter to the King; nothing being impossible for him, having Liante for Mediator; To whom he shown his dispatches: And in respect they tended only to the Peace and Union of those two Nations under the King's Obedience, Liante was glad to be an instrument of so good and laudable an Enterprise.  
The substance of his Informations to the King imported, That it was rather by good Fortune than bad, that he had fallen into the Lithuanian's hands, or at least, that it was so fortunate a misfortune, that he thanked Heaven for nothing so much as that Disgrace; not only that thereby he had rendered some testimonies of his fidelity to His Majesty from whom he had received so dear a proof of his affection, by the cars he expressed of procuring his Liberty: But that he had found the means by his imprisonment (so that His Majesty would be pleased to let it continue somewhat longer) to reduce the exasperated Spirits of those Rebels to the regulated temper of a just Obedience: Which he esteemed so feasible, that if his Majesty would condescend but a little, he doubted not to purge them of their Factious humours, and make them understand their duties. That he had observed among them the seeds of great Affection and Respect to their Natural and Legitimate Prince; And that, with the least shower of clemency poured down upon those Plants, they were likely to produce acceptable fruits in their season. That he being born a Polonian, desired, as much and more than the other Palatines, the glory of Polonia and the advantage of his Country; But having considered that Peace with their Neighbours was the main means to make Polonia flourish, and that to subdue by violence the Lithuanians (a Nation both redoubtable, and in his judgement invincible) was an enterprise so far from any likelihood, that it was rather an exposing of Polonia to the Conquest of Lithuania, than a way to reduce Lithuania under the subjection of Polonia. That that Province being altogether as vast and powerful as Sarmatia, it might balance and counterpoise the authority, and pre-eminence of the Polonians; who of Elder Brothers without contradiction, might be supplanted by their younger, if they came to dispute it by force of Arms, whose Evenements are so full of uncertainties. That it was only allowing some part of the inheritance to those second Children, who perchance being treated with moderation would be contented with little. That he must not think to give them the portion of the Eagle (which is the Arms of Polonia) who leave's nothing to the other Birds; otherwise the armed Knight (which is the Arms of Lithuania) pretending to the booty would fight for his share of the spoil. That he had felt the pulse, and sounded the dispositions of the principal Authors of that Revolt, whom he found resolved to die for the defence of their Liberties (a pecious Pretext and capable to make the whole Earth rise) or (if they did submit to the Crown of Polonia) to participate in the Charges and Government of the State. These with divers other heads by way of advice did Iphigenes write, and sent them to the King with the following  
LETTER.  
SACRED MAJESTY:  
TWo grand benefits I hope to reap by the damage of my imprisonment; One, to re-purchase myself your Opinion, if I have lost it, or preserve it if I have yet any place in your Favour. The Other, to arm such endeavours for your present service as may style me a faithful Servant to so Royal a Master. SIR, I am your subject with many others, but I am, besides, the particular Mark of your Liberalities and Beneficence, which makes me the Blank of Envy and Detraction (if Envy can have any Blank) But I hope by this occasion which I have now in hand (or rather in whose hands I am) to make the malice of my Enviers burst, as certain venomous Creatures are observed to do at the smell of Roses. For, if Your Majesty will be pleased only to prolong my imprisonment, and authorise by your approbation according to the advice I have sent you with this present) my Negociations and Proceed, I doubt not in short time to reduce unto such terms the affairs of this  War, that Your Majesty triumphing in the midst of your Enemies, shall see them beg mercy at your Feet; which I kiss with all humility in acknowledgement, and thanks for the care you take of my enlargement out of this servitude: Happy servitude! amiable Prison! since it is for the service of a King, whose Goodness exceeds his Greatness, and who deserve's that the Extremities of the Earth were the Limits of his Dominion; Yet would it be inferior to his Virtue. Agreeable Prison! wherein I manage the Liberty of my Country; which never can have place but in the Public Tranquillity. SIR, all the fruit of War is Peace: But He that can gather that sweet fruit, blessed by Heaven and desired on Earth, without watering his Palms with Blood, and his Olive-Branches with Tears, is he not much happier? Who doubts but the refreshing breath of gentle Zephyrus, is more agreeable than the blustering blasts of rigid Boreas, and that the ways of Mildness are the best and most advantageous to Monarches, who can show by nothing better than Clemency that they are the lively Images of the Deity? This makes me beseech Your Majesty to speak always like a King in your Letters, expressing your Courage and Indignation by threaten, but within your Heart to reserve inclinations to Mercy and Forgiveness: Considering that you Command Men, and Men that are freeborn, People of an haughty Spirit, and whose untractable dispositions naturally make them rather break then bend. It is fit that your Majesty imitating the Divinity, which you represent to us on Earth, should make the voice of your Thunder be heard over the rebel's heads, to the end the astonishment may keep them All in Fear, although the Blow hit very Few. And let not your Majesty stick to hazard my Life, or apprehend exposing it to the Mutiny of an enraged Rabble; For, as I shall not preserve it but only for your service, I cannot lose it better than for so glorious a cause. I would I had a thousand Lives, and that it were but my losing of them all to give you a full testimony that I am the most faithful, as the most obliged to Your Majesty of all your Subjects. I shall add this word for the consideration of Liante, who amazeth all Polonia, that being a natural Polonian, he should espouse the Lithuanian interest. Your Majesty may please to take notice that the Despair, whereunto the rigorous treatment of my Father, his Guardian, hath reduced him, compelled him to that extremity, rather than the desire of disserving Your Majesty, or favorising their Rebellion. When I shall inform Your Majesty one day, what drove him into that Desperate Course, you will acknowledge that it was rather a Necessity unavoidable, than any Design accompanied with Malicious ingratitude: Hereof I have daily experience by the assistance which I receive from him for the advancement of Your majesty's Service among these Mutineers. If by the confiscation of his Estate Your Majesty hath made him feel the severity of your Indignation, when you shall understand the truth, and that his Services shall have averred his innocence, and cleared his accusation, he hopes, with the rest, to taste the fruits of your Clemency, as I am loaden with those of your Liberality.  
Your majesty's most humble, most faithful and most obliged Subject, Servant and Creature, IPHIGENES.  
The King having received this Packet, seriously reflected upon the advice of his beloved Favourite, of whose wit and virtue he had always made no mean account, but nothing comparable to the esteem he conceived of him on this occasion, seeing with what Prudence and Conduct he changed his private Disaster into the Public good. And in effect he served the King in this occurrence as the Dolphin is said to serve Fishermen, who finding him in their Nets, after stroking and caressing him, cast him again into the Sea, because he leads into their hands the other Fishes, which in great trains attend him as their Prince. But alas! as in a calm season when the Dolphin's sport above the water, it is the infallible presage of a storm; So, while Iphigenes laboured, in playing, to procure a public tranquillity, a Tempest arose with such impetuosity, that he had almost perished; neither could it be appeased notwithstanding all his industry, but by wracking the secret which he had so many years concealed.  
Whilst the King was deliberating his affairs, having commanded the most trusty, and best experienced of his Council to advise concerning the means of quenching that fire which threatened both his States of Polonia and Lithuania with a vast ruin, Iphigenes by a sudden Gust saw all his hopes upon the very brink of Destruction. For, Olavius seeing the great ascendant Liante had over the Spirit of Iphigenes, and that He had no less over the King's; The Politic Lithuanian conceived that there was no better means to more his Vessel at Anchor, and secure himself from the Shipwreck that threatened his Fortune, than by marrying his Daughters. The aspiring to the alliance of Iphigenes, was what he desired more than he durst hope. Oh! if Amiclea's glances had penetrated as deep into that Favorite's breast, as they had done in Liante's, what great matters would he have promised to his Ambition! But (besides that he knew Iphigenes was Married to Modestina, and was not ignorant of the Designs of the Princess Respicia) seeing the great indifferency that beloved Captive showed for all Women, as he lost the Hope of achieving so high an advantage, he quitted the thought of desiring it. Which made him turn all his pretensions towards Liante, promising himself to obtain of the King by Iphigenes, what he should demand of Iphigenes by Liante.  
If this Palatine had an ambition to make Liante his Son-in-Law, Liante was no less desirous than He to contract that alliance: But he was not so simple as to take the Elder for the Younger, there was no darkness impenetrable to the sight of such a Lover.  
Since Oloria had turned her Eyes towards Iphigenes, being transported with the ravishing Garb of that beautiful Object, she slighted Liante's scorns; The same cause made Amiclea disdain the esteem which Liante made of her, and nothing was so irksome to her, as when he entertained her with the discourse of his Passion.  
Melindra, Daughter to the Palatine of Troc, being assaulted on one side by the Legitimate Affection and Fidelity, which she owed to her absent Husband, and on the other by the Charms which the presence of Iphigenes cast into her thoughts, felt Combats of Love and Honour in her Heart, whose convulsions approached the torments of a Woman in travel, who would but cannot be delivered. The Conflict or violent opposition that Heat and Cold make in the concavity of a Cloud, is some resemblance of the Contradictions in her Mind. And after many passionate Complaints continuing to aggravate her sore with a thousand various imaginations, she empoisoned the Humour more, and sometimes shunned the remedy, sometimes desired it with impatience. Nevertheless she remained so firm in the steps of Virtue, that although her languishing looks, broken sighs, and tears discovered plainly enough her distemper to Iphigenes, yet she observed a severe silence, never giving her Tongue the liberty to say any thing, but what was within the bounds of a modest Civility. Wherein she made appear as much virtue as the two old Palatinesses shown little; For, they were grown so jealous of their Daughters, having discovered their inclinations, that like Furies they were perpetually haunting them, and reprehending in them a fault, which they authorised in their own deportments. I will not slain their memory with the extraordinary means, which they used to inveigle this Fish into their Nets. Imagine you only what Women can do, or rather what they cannot do, when animated with a violent Passion, and in an Age whose weakness redouble's the other's force. At length Despair had made them commit a treachery, and change their inclination into vengeance, if the Public necessities had not retarded them in their Private animosities. So they borrowed of Time and Patience the succour of Hope, which is always ready to assist the most miserable.  
But Iphigenes, who had been beaten with fiercer, and more dangerous storms at Court, laughed at those Feminine divisions, and looked (as from an eminent place) upon those frail Vessels, agitated with that violent tempest, as a Shuttlecock in the Wind, and the subject of his Disdain. The assault which I am now going to relate was otherwise resented, for it came from the Place that was only capable of putting Iphigenes beyond his Temper and Art of Dissimulation.  
You may conceive already, that it proceeded from Liante, whose Spirits being settled, after the motion which Iphigenes transvestment had caused in his breast, relapsed into the vehemence of his Passions for Amiclea; whose Scorns befrosted his Pretensions, as much as her Graces inflamed his Inclinations. At length, the Eyes of those that love, being very quicksighted, he perceived it was only the presence of Iphigenes that ruined his Designs, and that his Idol was so possessed with the Idea of that beautiful Palatine, that no other could find admittance into her Soul.  
This presently bred Jealousy in Liante, and so much power hath the Tyranny of Love above the ties of Friendship, that he felt the later diminish, as fast as the other dilated itself in his thoughts. He wished he had some occasion not to love Iphigenes so well; but his endearing deportments, his virtue, and (above all) that incomparable Modesty, which accompanied all his Actions, wrested out of his Mind all thoughts of loving him less. Afterwards, considering to what danger that brave Palatine had exposed himself to save his Fortune, and the promises he made to raise him to the most eminent Dignities of Polonia, if he would follow his advice (which he had always found as advantageous as sincere) that expunged all manner of Gall out of his Heart, and restrained him from doing or saying any thing, that might be prejudicial to so pure and inviolable a Friendship. One of whose principal Effects being Confidence, he resolved to open his Heart to Iphigenes, and discover to him as well the extremity of his Passion for Amiclea, as the pricking torments of his Jealousy.  
But when he had displayed all his distempers, the End of his Discourse was the Beginning of Iphigenes pains; for fearing nothing so, much as the loss of that Heart, which he desired to keep entire to himself, it was an inconceivable torture to his Mind, to see him so violently bend upon another. Object Whereupon he thus spoke to Liante; I marvel not at your being in Love, for the Subject deserves it; But your Jealousy put's my senses beyond all temper; for (I pray) what occasion have I ever given you to doubt of my Fidelity? Observe Liante, how far my Friendship extends: if you had but said to me, Iphigenes, I would not have you look upon such a Lady, although her Image were ne'er so deeply engraven in my Soul, I would tear it away, or pluck the Eyes out of my head, if they were so rash as to cast but one glance upon her. I am sure if I had brought yours to this test, it would not have endured the touch, and you would defend your disobedience by the advantages that Love, who is but a Child, possesseth o'er those Spirits that are subjected to his Empire. See, Liante, how I surpass you in all things, and (which is as much to your shame as my honour) in the Prerogatives of Friendship; which is vainly reported to equalise Friends, since you are inferior to me by so many degrees, that you dare not think in my favour, what I would willingly execute for your Consideration. What imagination possesseth your mind? do you think to make Amiclea love you against her will? Certainly you understand very ill the motions of Love, which have no other foundation but the Liberty of choosing, and therefore it is called Dilection, as if one should say an inclination of Election. And you are very ignorant of the humour of Ladies, who (like shadows) do usually follow those that fly them, and shun those that follow them. You have reason to say that Amiclea love's me; he must be blind that perceive's it not; so do many others, whose Passions are very irksome to me: my Ears are daily stormed with her Complaints, and these importunities which are so unwelcome to me, would be such favours to you, as would elevate your thoughts to the Skies. But what should I do in this case? I can no more hinder her from loving me, than compel her to affect you. Affection is not so easily put off as a Garment, nothing is more difficult to be done by devoir than to Love. She knows that her desires are without hope for my particular, and yet I cannot disabuse her of her Error, nor dissuade her from amusing her Fancy after a Subject, which cannot lawfully be here's. I would, for your satisfaction, that it were in my power to transplant her Passion, and turn it from myself to you; if this were possible, you should find that among all the Friends in the World there never was any more faithful, nor more desirous of pleasing you than I am.  
At these words Jealousy resigned the possession of Liante's Heart; and he, acknowledging the engagements he had to the incomparable Friendship of Iphigenes, said to him: I think Heaven hath created you to serve as a Spectacle of admiration to all those that see you, but much more to those that frequent you. It is impossible to hate you, and know you; But what say I? I maintain one cannot know you without loving you, no more than see the Sun without light or heat. But what can be the reason, that (like that glorious Planet) you cause such ardours in these feeble Souls, without conceiving the least degree of heat in your own? For, never Man was so beloved of Women as you are, and (I think) never any cared less for them than you. What? Do you then love none so well, but that you could leave her if a faithful friend should entreat you to be unfaithful to her?  
Hereunto Iphigenes made answer, A perfect Friend will never desire any thing so dishonourable as infidelity; but if any Friend of mine should be much inflamed for some one of that Sex, (who to me are all indifferent) I should make no difficulty to resign an affection, wherein I were not otherwise engaged than by a  respect; especially if he had been the first pretender. For, I hold it the greatest injury that can be done to a Friend, to endeavour to spoil his market in matter of Marriage, and that there is nothing more capable of breaking all Friendship, than Jealousy proceeding from such a cause; in regard it is an offence beyond reparation. There is not he breathing among Mortals but knows that Love and Royalty admit of no Companions, and that they are two Torrents which overturn by the impetuosity of their Course all sort of Obstacles.  
Dear Iphigenes, replied Liante, I think thou hast undertaken to transport me quite beyond myself, making me see in thee, not the Image, but the Essence of the most perfect Friend under the Circumference of the Firmament. I deliver up my Arms, Dear Brother, and in all ways acknowledge myself conquered by thee; But since thou hast given me so many times my Life, now thou givest me the Courage to desire thee to preserve in me thy own handiwork, and release me from the trouble that torment's me. Know then, that without the possession of Amiclea I cannot live. And to embrace the Body of one, whose Heart is with another, is a thing I can as little endure, as to be tied to a breathless Carcase; It would be a punishment to me, not a pleasure. Therefore I beseech thee to further me in the Conquest of her Affection, and favorise this alliance with thy assistance. I am but too certain of her Parent's consent, and that they are no less willing to make me their Son-in-law, than I desire to have their Daughter to Wife.  
Then, after some other discourse, conceiving that nothing hindered him from being beloved by Amiclea, but the Passion which consumed her for Iphigenes, Liante continued his supplication to him to deprive her of all Hope of enjoying him, that she might likewise lose the desire, flattering his imagination that thereby her Love, having no more wings to raise itself, would doubtless fall to the ground; the only means of curing that Disease in her Fancy, and to pluck the Thorns out of her Heart, being to put the Rose out of her reach. Alleging that to persuade her to divert her thoughts another way, and fix them upon a subject to whom she might easily and justly pretend, he had a thousand reasons, and wanted no inventions to lend him merits that he possessed not, and convey them into the belief of that Lady. That if, by his mediation, he purchased her Affection, he would esteem that favour above the benefit of his Life (for which he remained his debtor) in regard Life would be loathsome to him, if he could procure no admittance into Amiclea's Heart.  
Imagine you into what extremities Iphigenes saw himself reduced, not being able handsomely to refuse serving Liante in an occasion that he dreaded the most, and which was most destructive to his own desires. Having remained long time in this perplexity, as motionless as if he had seen a Medusa, or been stunned with some violent blow, at length recollecting his Spirits, and like Anteus, receiving vigour from his fall, he gave his voice passage to pronounce these words.  
Liante, if you knew the harm and injury you do me, you would have some compassion of my suffering, and acknowledge that you condemn me to a punishment much less supportable than Death, by entreating me to serve you in this occurrence. I know you will say, that the trial of a Friend is in difficult matters, and time of need; But if we ought to love another, by the model of that Love which we own to ourselves, it follows necessarily that our own interest ought to have the precedence, according to the order of the most perfect Charity. It is not yet time for you to know the injury I receive thereby, nor the extreme damage and hindrance it will be to your Fortune, which I intended to raise above all other Grandeurs in Polonia, except the Royal Dignity. I see plainly that it is the lustre of some pleasures, and vain pretensions, that makes you precipitate yourself from this Pinnacle, and seek your fall, where you thought to raise yourself. Questionless I shall be a Cassandra to you, and tell you divers truths, but you will believe none. Well, Liante, perchance my Death will open your Eyes, and then (by a remorse too late and out of season) you will regret that you had caused it to one, who prepared for you the happiest Life that your imagination could fathom. Nevertheless I will drink this Cup of bitterness, which you present me, and although it be to me a poison beyond remedy, I will swallow it, to show the force of my Friendship to the prejudice of my Love, to a Man, who (I believed) could not be capable of ingatitude.  
Hereupon Liante thinking he had discovered all the secret, said; Brother, have I caught you? I knew this straining would so torture you, that in despite of your dissimulation, I should at length wring out of your own Mouth the verity, which you hide in the bottom of your Heart. You love Amiclea then, for whom you counterfeited so much coldness and indifference; and, thrusting Time back by the shoulders expecting the conclusion of the Peace, you would amuse me in the interim with promises of imaginary dignities, like those who give Children Cherries with certain magnifying Glasses, that make them show as big as Apples: To the end at the same time you may kill two Birds with one bolt, and by breaking your Faith to the Sister deprive the Brother of a Love, which he prefers before his Life.  
At length after a tedious Conference to this effect, Liante being persuaded by the suggestions of Jealousy, that the fair Palatine was the only obstacle of his pretensions, in a discontented humour quitted the room, leaving Iphigenes with such a tempest in his thoughts, as you may fancy, Love, Despite, Shame, Choler, Despair, and Sorrow (which then tormented him all together) by their impetuous blasts were able to raise in a Lover's mind. Yet being resolved to suffer all extremities, rather than break absolutely with Liante, he searched among his thoughts for Excuses, and some Reasons to pardon his ingratitude. And after a thousand Muse, and as many extravagant Discourses, Alas! said he to himself; It is thou (I phigenes) who art cause of thy own mischief, yet thou accusest the innocent, thou hidest his Eyes and complainest if he hurt thee. Restore, restore his sight by discovering to him what thou art, and then thou wilt find that as the shadows of the Night fly from the Presence of the Sun, So all his Suspicions will vanish when thou shalt let him see the clear Day of Truth.  
Thus Iphigenes sometimes injuring Liante, sometimes crying him mercy, sometimes accusing, sometimes excusing him, digested that bitterness with such anguish, that (if a timely shower of tears had not wetted the Wings of his agitated Spirits, benumbed his Senses, and at last closed his Eyes) he was in danger of falling into a Frenzy.  
Mean time Liante neglected no endeavours to get Iphigenes out of the City, judging that in respect He had entered upon his Word, his Honour was engaged to remit him in the same condition as he took him: Besides, the interest of his Love instigated him shrewdly to expedite that enterprise, imagining, as a Loadstone loseth its faculty of attracting iron in the presence of a Diamond, that he should never be able to draw the Affections of Amielea to him, as long as her Eyes had that beautiful Palatine to contemplate. But as it is no less easy to be caught in a snare, than hard to get lose; So in the Wars a Man may be soon made prisoner, but not so suddenly enlarged. Liante to acquire the glory of that Prize, had conducted that intelligence without communicating it to the Palatines of Minsee and Troc: But to make Iphigenes escape without advertising them, had been to expose his Person to a shameful punishment, and declare himself an Enemy and a Traitor to the public good: So that he knew not what to resolve. On the other side, the Passion he suffered for Amiclea never gave his Mind any truce: yet to marry one that loved him not, in that great Aversion and Perplexity of Spirit, (th' Idea of another Object having wholly prepossessed her thoughts) he saw as little likelihood as contentment.  
In this anxiety he went to tell Iphigenes, that without his Counsel he could not find a thread to lead him out of the Labyrinth, wherein he had engaged himself by entering into Minsce. Iphigenes, who had no desire to go out, was glad to take this advantage of Liante, saying, That coming in upon his word, he thought the Gates should be open for him when he pleased. And, Liante having told him the difficulties and obstacles he found in procuring his enlargement, he continued; See what a great Name you have in appearance among the Rebels, and how little Power in effect. It is not so with me in the King's Party; For, I am so confident of His majesty's goodness, that he will receive you graciously, and when I shall have acquainted him with the motives of your. Despair, that he will re-establish you in despite of Mieslas in your Estate, and confer such Dignities upon you as you can never hope to gain by this Rebellion. And if you will decline those thoughts of Marriage with Amiclea (which are as ruinous to you as grievous to me, for Reasons which it is not yet time to tell you,) Let me alone with the conduct of your Fortune, and assure yourself, that I will not only repair the Breaches of it, but raise it to such an height, that your desires will scarce be able toto reach it.  
Passion is a deceiving Medium, through which we cannot rightly discern the sincerity of any thing. Liante being prepossessed with a false suspicion and prejudice against Iphigenes, thought all his Potestations and Promises but only inventions to deceive him; especially in regard they tended to make him break those Bonds, which he esteemed above all Honours or Liberty: And not conceiving wherefore he should have such repugnancy to his Marriage, he resolved to play the Adder, stopping his Ears to that wise Charmer, and press all he could his Alliance with Amiclea.  
Whereupon he answered, That he was not so little judicious, as to leave a certainty for an uncertainty, and a Prey which he had already in his Hands, to follow a new Sent; No, he was too well skilled in hunting to take the Change. That he preferred the conquest of his Mistress above the King's favour. That he hoped his particular Peace should be included in the public Articles. That he knew no better means to engage the Lithuanians to insert that Clause in their Capitulations, than by his Alliance with Olavius. That that was his last resolution, the Plank and Anchor of his Shipwracked Fortune; That all persuasions to the contrary should move his Heart no more than the Sea's insulting Billows displace the sturdy Rocks.  
This hurried the thoughts of Iphigenes beyond the bounds of Patience, seeing the obstinancy of that inflexible Courage: yet he moderated his passion a little, not without letting appear some sparkles of his inward fire by these words. You cannot restore me my Liberty, & you will marry Amiclea against my Will. Well, Liante, know that being more powerful than you in all respects, I can take again my Liberty when I please, and hinder you from having Amiclea to Wife. For, I know, unless I am so contented, that she will rather consent to Death, than your Marriage: As for my going out of this Castle, take notice that I have as many sally-ports as there are W. (he would have said Women, but not to discover himself too much, he said) Windows.  
This made Liante believe (see how one absurdity drawe's on another) that Iphigenes made use of some Magical charms to purchase himself the King's favour, rise to such high Dignities, acquire Honour in the War, gain the Affections not only of Ladies, but of all the World, and make his escape out of Prison, either by flying like Dedalus, or transforming himself into a Bird. In this Opinion he said, That cannot be done without sorcery.  
I will use no other Charms, than those which Nature hath placed in my Face (replied Iphigenes) nor any other Arms than those of my Tongue. Then (answered Liante in a fury) complain not against Me if you get not out of Prison; And do what you can, I defy all your enchantments, White or Black, Natural or Diabolical, for hindering Me from marrying my Mistress, since I have her Father's word, on which depends her Will by the Law of Filial Obedienoe and Paternal Authority. With that he fling away, as full of Anger as he left Iphigenes oppressed with Sadness.   

The Twelveth Book.  
ARGUMENT.  
Iphigenes to content Liante seems to solicit Amiclea in his behalf. His Speeches to Her, Liante standing behind the Hang in the same Chamber. Her sharp Replies. Liante's fury at Her slights. Iphigenes and Amiclea's endeavours to appease his Rage. Liante, transported with Love, contracts with Her Parents to marry Amiclea contrary to Her Will or Knowledge. Her Sister Oloria informs Her, and She acquaints Iphigenes with these Proceed. Iphigenes falls desperately Sick with Grief for Liante's unkindness to Him, and his obstinate Research of Amiclea. The Politic Boleslaus, under pretence of being an Apothecary, conveye's himself into the Castle with the King's Physicians that came to attend the Prisoner. Iphigenes after a passionate Declaration of his Distemper, 'swounds in Boleslaus Arms. His perplexity, and Invention to assuage the Palatine's sorrow. To disabuse Liante and withdraw his affection from Amiclea, He discovers the whole Mystery of Iphigenes Birth, Education and Passion for Him. Liante's astonishment at this Relation, with his Speeches to Boleslaus. The Amazement, and Joy of Iphigenes upon Boleslaus assurance of Liante's mutual flames. Boleslaus brings Liante to Iphigenes Chamber. Their Passionate Deportments at this interview. Their perfect Reconciliation. Their Plot to cheat the Eyes as well of Amiclea and Oloria as the rest. Olavius in hope to match his Daughter to Iphigenes, disposes the Lithuaninans to an accommodation. Iphigenes receives a Commission from the King to treat with them. Mieslas, during the Treaty, endeavours to intercept Liante at his return into the City. The Policy and Resolution of Iphigenes to defend Him. Next day He is stayed, and accused of Treason by his enraged Father. Mieslas to break off the Treaty, and entrap L'ante (if he sallied) gave out that He would execute Iphigenes with his own hand as a Traitor. Liante with a strong Party of Lithuanians rescues the supposed Iphigenes, takes Mieslas Prisoner. Amiclea to release or revenge her beloved Iphigenes, in a suit of Polemander's Armour sallies among the rest, is taken by the Royalists, and given by the General to Iphigenes. He returns with his Shee-Champion to Minsce; Excuses her disguisement to Olavius and her Mother. Receives a Plenipotentiary power from the King to agree with the Lithuanians: The Pastimes during the Treaty. Liante's Grace and re-establishment is included in the Articles. The Peace concluded, Iphigenes is sent for to the Court: Is magnificently received by the King. He obtains Liante's pardon, and re-instates him in the King's favour. The King offers his Sister Florimunda in Marriage to Iphigenes in satisfaction of his acceptable services. His modest refusal. The Queen's importunity to effect that Alliance. His seeming consent and resignation to their Majesty's Commands. Iphigenes discovers to the King in private the whole secret of his Birth, Education and Affection to Liante; Implores his assistance for the accomplishment of his desires. Their Plot to stop the Rumour of his Marriage to Florimunda, and suppress her Passion, by reporting that He was impotent. The Princess Respicia's distempers at this News, and Her endeavours to make good Her Dispensation. Modestina and Aretuza are sent for to the Court. The fears of the later, the Jealousy and passionate Expressions of the other against Respicia. The Palatine of Minsce brings his two Daughters to Court, challenging Iphigenes and Liante of their promise to marry them. The King opposes his authority to their pretensions, makes Mieslas condescend to give Liante one of his Daughters. He produces a concealed one named Virgenia or Iphigenia. The contestation of Modestina, Respicia and Amiclea for Iphigenes. The King appoints a day for hearing, and undertakes to content them all by his Award. His speech to the Queen and Assembly, while Virgenia (dressed like a Bride) is conveyed into a private Gallery, and Liante reassumes the form of Almeria. Boleslaus by the King's command brings forth Iphigenes sumptuously apparelled in Man's , Leading Liante in a Woman's. Their Deportments and Speeches to the Assembly. The several censures of the Spectators. The Archbishop declares Iphigenes Marriage to Modestina void: Affiance's him to Almeria. The destemper of Mieslas at this sight. They retire and change . The King's private Discourse with the three Pretendants in mean time. Liante by the King's command reenters the Stage in Man's apparel with the real Iphigenes attired like the supposed Iphigenia. They are publicly contracted. Mieslas is deceived in his own Daughter. The Queen's and Infanta's discourse concerning the betrothed Couples. His majesty's grave Speech to the Assembly, unfoulding the secret of Iphigenes Birth. The amazement of the Hearers. Miesias' fury against Liante is turned to Joy and Kindness. The King appoints a day to celebrate their Marriage with magnificent solemnities. Iphigenes, more in favour than ever, Marries and advances all his Friends and Attendants. Liante's Dignities increase proportionably to the favour his Wife procured him. Their life at the Court. The Moscovians invade Polonia. Mieslas, by his Daughter's means is made Lieutenant General. Ambition incites Liante to assist in that Expedition; Love and Honour forbidden Iphigenia's stay behind him. Their Gallantry in the Battle. Mieslas is slain; The General dies; That Charge is conferred upon the two Favourites. The Triumphs that were made them at their return to Court. Liante is re-instated in his Inheritance, & made Lord high Marshal of Polonia. Cassin, Pomeran and the rest are Honourably rewarded by His Majesty, for their valorous deportments in his Service.  
THis distance and discontentment having continued for some days, the enamoured Prisoner, desiring to leave nothing unattempted to Conquer Liante's Heart, sent to beg a visit of him. Courtesy, so natural to persons of Noble birth, permitted him not to refuse so small a favour to so great a friend; Besides, the hope he had that Iphigenes, repenting himself for having thwarted his design, might happily assist him in the purchase of Amiclea's Love, induced him to satisfy his desire.  
Being come into the presence of him, whom he had so dear loved, and so much disobliged, touched with a thousand remerses, he had not the confidence to invisage him. Iphigenes, perceiving the perplexity, and trouble in his thoughts, by the changing of colours in his Frace, after many passionate Reproaches and Complaints against his ingratitude, said; You foster an Opinion as I would have dissuaded you from the Alliance with Amiclea, that I do hinder her from consenting to the Marriage proposed betwixt her and you. If I make you see and hear the contrary of your Error, what can you allege for your excuse? But to speak verities to one that is incredulous, is to sow good Grain on an infertile Ground.  
I am not so wedded to incredulity (replied Liante) as not to believe what I see and hear; but you must pardon me if I have no Faith in your last words, since they are directly contrary to your former, from which (if you remember) I could gather no other sense, than that you would hinder Amiclea, to the utmost of your power, from giving her consent to make me her Husband.  
I is true (said Iphigenes) that if I did by the least compliance bewray an inclination to answer the Love, (which you cannot but perceive she beareth me) it would be a sufficient Remora to stay the Vessel of your Designs, were it going full-saile upon the Sea of the fairest hopes that could be imagined. But if I have never amused her in her pretensions; if I have been to her Ears a perpetual Advocate pleading the Cause of your Merits, before the tribunal of her Heart; if without cease she hath rejected my persuasions, not so much for the affection she bear's me as the aversion she hath to you; aversion which is changed into horror, since she hath understood that with her consent, or by force you have boasted to obtain the possession of her, and that it is impossible for her to avoid being married to you; if I have always endeavoured to rebate the edge of her indignation, and moderate her bitterness against your proceedings: In sum, if I have stripped myself of all the right I might pretend in her to invest you with Her affections, where will you find a Face to blush enough at the indignities, which you have not only made my Innocence suffer, but wherewith you requite the Services I have rendered you? Of all this it is easy for me to give an invincible proof, if you do but take order that Amiclea may come to see me, and if you have the patience to see and hear, what she will say, when she thinks you absent, and you stand hid behind the Tapestry: But I have something else to communicate to you more serious than these fopperies of Love, which ought at least to give some respite to Men's Spirits in such times of trouble.  
It is true the King wages War against you very gently, upon the hopes that I have given him of mediating, in time, a good agreement that may spare the Blood of his Subjects: you have indeed occasion and some reason to amuse your thoughts with that Passion, which is the employment of those that have nothing else to do (during this kind of cessation of Arms) but to busy their wits with the ordinary exercise of Gentlemen in times of Peace; which is, to make Love. Now, as I will not hinder you from this, so I entreat you by all that can oblige a generous Spirit, by the reverence which you own to your Sovereign, by the care of your particular Fortune, by the advancement of the public good, I would add by the Friendship which you have born me (if there remained any spark unquenched of that sacred fire) that you would not oppose any obstacle to the Treaty, which I pretend to make by the Commandment, and for the service of His Majesty with the Lithuanians. Let us, like those two great Captains of Greece, who being Enemies deposed their private grudges to secure their Country by a Friendly intelligence. And although, for my part, I protest, I have not any Gall against you; however your Heart is to me, you ought for your country's good to contribute your assistance, unless you will contract the stain of an impiety, that will render you odious to God and Man. If this difference be but reconciled, let your rigour execute upon me afterwards all that your umbragious or Choleric humour can suggest; I will have no better destiny, than what is spun by your hands, nor survive the loss of your affection.  
I Doubt not that your principal intent (said Liante) is to procure the agreement betwixt Lithuania and Polonia, (an enterprise which I exceedingly commend, so it be conducted with Sincerity and Judgement, and for which I would willingly employ my Blood and Life, it being (in my opinion) the richest Monument a Man can erect for himself, to die for the repose and safety of his Country:) But why cannot you perform that public Office, without traversing the particular inclinations I have for Amiclea, as if that alliance imported any thing to the service of His Majesty, or the Public? If it please you to assist me in the one, I promise you to contribute my best endeavours for the advancement of the other.  
Then Liante having put Iphigenes in mind of his promise to let him hear the persuasions wherewith he would mollify Amiclea's Heart, and induce her to embrace his Affection; Iphigenes renewed his engagement to him. Whereupon leave being obtained of Olavius for her to visit the Prisoner, Liante repaired joyfully to the place appointed, to see the Despair of his pretensions.  
This Sentinel was no sooner set, but Amiclea (who had already received intimation privately from Iphigenes of the Design) being come into the Chamber, after the ordinary Civilities, He entertained her with this discourse: Madam, all the ill treatment you see me suffer in this place proceedeth only from an opinion crept into Liante's fancy, that I hindered you from Marrying him; you know in what terms I have always represented to you the merits of that Gentleman, and that to divert you from the Passion which you are pleased to express towards me, I declared the impediments that debarred me from acknowledging so great a favour in such manner as my devoir and Courtesy would oblige me to, if I were free. Therefore I beseech you to quit the desire of a person, who cannot lawfully be yours, and apply your Heart to him, whom your Parents have designed you, and who so perfectly honour you, that I believe nothing can be added to the greatness of his affection. I am incited to make you this request, by the ancient Friendship, which from my infancy I have contracted with Liante, the selicity I wish you and (if I may dare to make this addition) the desire I have of moderating my restraint.  
Seigneur Palatine (answered Amiclea,) you are a better Friend than faithful Lover; I have told you so many times that it is as impossible for me to lodge Liante in my Heart, as displace you; you continue deaf to my Complaints, yet you would have me be exorable to his; you are too blame to condemn me for a fault which you authorise in yourself, and persuade me by your words what your Example disswade's. For, if you will not receive me into your Affection, for some weak reasons wherewith you oppose my importunities, why should not I defend myself from his alliance for many good and powerful ones, which I have so often inculcated to you? I know not with what Antipathy Nature hath imbued my Soul against him, but however I strive to compel my humonr, I can see nothing in him that pleases me. And what probability is there then, that I should render myself to the violence whereby he pretends to force me to a consentment? He deceive's himself if he think's to win me that way; For, in stead of attracting my affection he will incense my hatred; But in disobliging he hath obliged me, for by letting me understand his jealous disposition before I was any way engaged to him, he give's me timely warning not to contraot myself to a Man, from whom I can expect nothing but Tyranny. What? He styles me His Mistress, yet he would ah easy treat me like a slive, and impose upon me Laws not according to Reason, but his humour. If he desire's that I should participate of that ardour, which he says he indure's for me; Doth he not see by that foolish rule, that he will oblige me to cherish all those that shall but seem to Love me? He would have me Love him, but not you; indeed a pertinent injunction; if he conceit's that he deserve's Love more than you, why will he constrain my Liberty? Have not I more reason to desire him not to Love me, (in regard I have no inclination to him) and suffer me to Honour you since I Love not my own thoughts, but when they entertain Me with the agreeable Representation of your Merits? Doth he think thus to enthral the Liberties of Persons, who are nothing inferior to himself, and already take upon him the severe Authority of an imperious Husband, in stead of keeping himself in the respects of an observant Lover? I know not whence can proceed those thoughts; neither, if he should persuade himself that his services ought to oblige me to be his, do I know that he hath rendered me any so remarkable as deserve my Liberty for recompense. If his Sighs, his Tears and Complaints, which are as many importunities to me, are taken for current payment, it is not at the rate of such slight things (and which are but Water and Wind) that I will purchase to myself a slavery. He hath often told me that his Life depended so upon the possession of me, that without it he should die; but I do so abhor him since I have discovered his humour, that I will rather marry a Grave than engage my Faith to him.  
But said Iphigenes, since he love's you so excessively, you cannot without ingratitude do less than give him your Heart in exchange for his, which he hath remitted into your hands. I cannot give an Heart that is not mine, answered Amiclea, and (what Friendship soever there is betwixt you) take that from you which is yours by my Free-gift, to give it him; it is easier for me to return him his own, which I never entertained though he offered it often; or at least entreat him to take it again, and bestow it on some other Subject more fit than I am to support his Tyrannies. You know (replied Iphigenes) that the Law of Gentlemen permit's not any generous Spirits to play the supplanters to their Friends, and that Liante being the first pretender to your Service, I may not embrace that Design until he hath quitted it, or that you have quite broken with him.  
As for the first (said Amiclea,) it depends on him, and I know not (he is so obstinate in his own mischief) whether he will let go that which he holds but by imagination; The second is fully resolved on for my part: For, I have desired him so many times not to importune me any more with his Tears and Sighs, that I know not what pleasure he takes to Shipwreck his Vows so often against a Rock that laughs at his Disasters. In a word, whatsoever You can say or He do, I will never be his in Body nor Mind. I have not so little courage, but that I know the way to set a period to my Life, when I shall perceive it worse than a thousand Deaths.  
After divers other Speeches to the same effect, Iphigenes said, Madam, let me entreat you to quit that resolution so cruel to him, and so unpleasing to me; Unpleasing to me, out of the sorrow I conceive, because I cannot answer your Affection as I would: And cruel to him, because I know if this news comes to his Ears, it will be the message of Death.  
Imagine you with what perplexities the afflicted Liante heard from the Mouth of his Mortal Goddess the sentence of his condemnation: with what reproaches did he not charge her Severity in his Mind, yet he loved her ne'er the less; on the contrary her Cruelty and Ingratitude like two whetstones sharpened his Passion, and rendered it more fervent. At length being no longer able to sustain the violence of his distemper contrary to the promise he had made Iphigenes not to appear, he left his Post in fury, and (his Eyes overflowed with Tears, and his Heart swelled with Sobb's) he cast himself at Amiclea's feet, at the same instant as she had taken Iphigenes Hand and was raising it to to her Lips. This Action with the discourse he heard had almost transported him beyond the bounds of respect: At last having obtained some truce of his Passion, he disburdened his mind in these words.  
Since after so many fruitless Sighs for having been the faithfullest of Lovers, I am paid with ingratitude by one, whose Heart I never thought capable of such a Vice, and for having offended the Heavens by honouring too religiously a Creature, I feel the punishment of my Idolatry in her disowning me: Since the Respects and Services which I have rendered her are held Offences: Since I am betrayed by him in whom I reposed my greatest confidence, and despised by her whom I esteemed most, what do I more in this Life, unless it be to prolong the insolences of Fortune, who is never weary of persecuting me? Cruel AMICLEA, more hard than the Rocks, more deaf than the Sea, less exorable than Death, finish, finish thy work pierce with the point of this blade (offering her his Poniard) this wretched Body, which thou so hatest, and send away that Soul which is so importunate and irksome to thee. I shall esteem this last Office an Act of Pity, and to make appear that thy disdain is less supportable to me than Death, thou shalt see me honour the Effect of thy Cruelty to the last Moment of my Life.  
Amiclea (although she had been advertised of his being hid in the room,) was however so troubled at his presence, and so frighted to see him in that desperate posture, that her voice cleaving to the Palate of her Mouth, she was not able to frame an answer. Iphigenes fearing, lest she refusing to take that Weapon, Liante's fury might transport him to plunge it in his own bosom, presently seized upon his Arm, to wrest that murderous blade out of his hand. Liante seeing Iphigenes disarming him, If that Lady (said he, looking on Amiclea with an Eye full of Love and Anger) hath not the courage to advance the term of my miserable Life, cut thou (if thou hast ever loved me) the Thread of my Days; and since thou hast rob me of my Heart, where all my hopes were seated, make an End of thy Felony by Ending Me.  
Guess you if these furious words which the extremity of grief forced out of Liante's Mouth, were not sufficient to draw tears from the tender Iphigenes Eyes. Amiclea being recovered of her amazement, to appease the fury of that mad Lover, resolved to use him more gently, and, with a more pleasing tone, show him how much he was too blame in suffering himself to be so transported with Passion: But as Medicines are useless to those whose Diseases are incurable, or who are not disposed to receive them: So Despair had so stopped us all the advenues of Reason in Liante's Soul, that he thought there was no other way but through the Gate of Death, to get out of his inconsolable torment.  
I should be too tedious if I stood to relate the divers arguments, whereby Iphigenes and Amiclea endeavoured to appease the frantic transportments of his Mind. But sometimes vomiting Blasphemies against Heaven; Sometimes tearing the Earth with Execrations; Sometimes cursing himself; Sometimes quarrelling with Providence; Sometimes accusing Amiclea, and then craving her Pardon; Sometimes reviling Iphigenes, then condemning his own rash Judgement, He did and said such things as are more fit to be wrapped up in silence, than displayed upon this Paper; and which made evidently appear that if Anger be a short Fury, Love is a pure Folly. At length having received from Amiclea no word of consolation that might preserve his Hope in that tempest of Rage that assailed his thoughts, after no mean contention with Himself, he went out of the Chamber, in the same manner as an enraged Bull breaks through the Ranks of those that see him baited, invoking Heaven and Earth to assist him in a Revenge.  
Soon after Liante's departure Amiclea was called away by her Governess, who attended her in the next room; Iphigenes being left alone had his thoughts so divided betwixt the interests of Love and Honour, that his pains, exceeding the bounds of any expression, cast him into a languishing indisposition, which within few days rendered him so feeble, that he was enforced to confine his distressed body to his Bed: where he appeared with such advantage, that his sickness seemed to have cast him down, the more to raise the lustre of his Beauty; which being then betwixt Pity and Envy ravished those Souls that had not rendered themselves before to Passion. The Ladies (who were as if they had been chained to his Bedstead) strove to outvie each other in inventing remedies for his Body, and divertisements for his Mind: And the Palatines, both of Minsce and Troc, came frequently to visit him, promising to give him all the contentments he could desire of their Courtesy.  
Mean time Liante gaping still after his Prey, resolved to have Amiclea, though against her Will, not to give himself the Lie; founding his determination upon this belief, that Time would bring all things to perfection, and that which was forced in the beginning, might be made willing in the End. Her Father had already given him his word, and was much displeased that the obstinacy of his Daughter should oppose his Promise and Authority. By Polemander's means he gained likewise the Mother's consent, who thinking him an advantageous Match for her Daughter, made no account of her contradiction. The Contract was agreed on without Amiclea's knowledge, but being informed of all the passages by Oloria (whom Despair had almost distracted) she comforted her with this assurance, that she would never consent to marry Liante, nor any other until She were provided; which somewhat qualified her jealous Sister's pain.  
Amiclea was not long before she gave Iphigenes notice of those proceed, which gave so furious an assault to his debilitated Heart, that increasing the violence of his Fever, the Physicians began to distrust his Recovery. This news was presently noised in the Camp, and thence carried to the Court; and that which the Lithuanians most feared (which was a suspicion that he had been poisoned by them) was the first impression His majesty's mind received. Whereupon he sent them Letters, more bloody than Tamberlan's Crimson Flag; To which they returned their Excuses and Protestations of innocence; But Poison is not purged by Oaths, and those who are so abominable as to pracise such baseness, make no great scruple of being perjured.  
The King presently dispatched his own Physicians and Surgeons with command to attend the Person of Iphigenes. They were very civilly received by the besieged Party, as had already been those whom the General and Mieslas had sent from the Camp. Boleslaüs, who was touched with a more than Fatherly tenderness for his dear Foster-Child, found means to slip himself in amongst the Physicians, feigning that he was an Apothecary. The Physicians in their Consultations found that Iphigenes Body was not prisoned, but their Learning did not reach so far as to read the Disease of his Mind.  
They being retired, when Boleslaüs appeared before the Patient's Eyes, already clouded in the shade of Death, they received some vigour; and his Spirits as it were, wakening out of the slumber wherewith Passion and Melancholy had oppressed them, his Tongue loosened itself to utter with a faint and almost dying voice these words. Father, I bless the Heavens who have sent you hither (as a Tutelary Angel) to render me the last devoirs as of your officious Piety I have received the first; your Arms which have heretofore served me as a Cradle, must shortly do me the office of a Bier; for, I can no longer support the Sorrow that destroye's me. I have nothing else to recommend to you but the Care of my Honour, which I have always maintained inviolable in despite of those mischiefs that have persecuted me, Be sure that the Earth may cover my Secret with my Body, since I have chosen to die rather than disclose it. Since that I die before the time which your Prudence had determined to discover it, I applaud the Providence of him under whose will run all the Moment's of our Life. For, to survive the loss of Liante's Friendship, is a thing which I cannot do if I would, and which I will not do though I could.  
Here Tears, Weakness and Grief stopped the passage of his voice, and he fell into a Trance, out of which it cost some time to recover him. Imagine you how Boleslaüs was afflicted seeing him in so great Extremities, and knowing so little whence proceeded this indisposition. At length having settled his dear Nursling in a little better temper as well of Body as Mind, and desiring him to let him understand the ground of his Disease: Father (said Iphigenes) Let me die in silence, and do you only have a care of that Honour after my Death, whereof you have been so jealous during my Life.  
The discreet old Man knowing with whom he was to deal, and that Iphigenes loved not to be pressed, feigned to resolve to die with him, as not having the Heart to behold the Day after the loss of him, whose consideration made him love its light.  
Iphigenes, moved with Pity at the old Man's tenderness, to hinder him from dying, seemed to re-affect the desire of Living; and, to unload his Heart of that sad burden which oppress't it, he took the pains to relate him every particular that had passed since his imprisonment, and how he had voluntarily made himself be taken, as is already mentioned. By which Discourse Boleslaüs seeing clear to the bottom of his Soul, and reading there the Cause of his distemper: Take courage (said he) we shall not die of this sickness, if we will be ruled by good advice.  
Father (answered Iphigenes) when things are desperate, it is no time to consult but to suffer: It will be easier and better for me to die, since I am already so near it, than re-enter into a thousand Deaths by recovering my Health. Liante's Heart being dead to me, I have nothing more to do in this mortal Life. After Boleslaüs had used divers arguments to persuade Iphigenes to banish the ingrateful Liante out of his thoughts, as unworthy of the favour of his Affection, He answered, Father, do not increase my torment with vilifying him whom my Soul honoureth; For, notwithstanding all your allegations and his unkind usage, I cannot divert the inclinations of my Heart, nor change the resolution of Loving him, but by losing my Life. Therefore if you love me (as I have no reason to doubt) and if you will oblige me to love you yet more (if it be possible) I beseech you go without delay to him, and conjure him not to fly from Iphigenes, who would seek and run after him, if his Sickness did not fetter him. Tell him that if I had contracted with him but a common acquaintance, Civility would oblige him to visit me, much more since he is cause of this extremity, whereunto I am reduced. Tell him I quit him of the Promise he made me to restore me my Liberty, when I committed myself into his hands; That I will not constrein him to quit Amiclea; That I will rather take upon me the care of soliciting against myself his Marriage with her; And that he would vouchsafe only to see me, and close my Eyes, that, with the favour of Heaven, I may likewise die in his. Hereunto I pray, good Father, study no Excuses nor Replies, if you desire that I should Live.  
Boleslaüs, who knew the Palatine's humour, promised a punctual performance of his commands, adding for his comfort, that by the long experience he had of Liante's Disposition, he doubted not to render him more flexible and sensible of his torment. And then having dexterously taken his time, Dear Child (said he) since you have so changed into Nature this Love, that it is become an accident inseparable to your Being, by undertaking to preserve your Life, I will also aim at the preservation of your affection; and since I find you cannot live content without Liante, I must use some invention to reduce that Heart into your power.  
At these words you would have thought Iphigenes had been raised again out of the Grave; or at least that he resembled a dainty Flower too much beaten with the Sun's Rays, which re-take's new vigour by the coolness of the Dew. In a word, Iphigenes was a Woman, and among so many Heroic virtues which she possess't, the Natural inclination of that Sex to curiosity could not be extinguished in Her.  
The subtle Senior perceiving it, made himself be entreated a while; at length, after many circumstances, he said, Child, it is no time to spare when a Man is come to the last penny of his stock. The last thing we must do in this World is to die; to prevent that Check, and prolong that fatal hour, nothing ought to be left unattempted. When you would have discovered yourself to Liante in the Forest of Plocens, you were pressed only with a temptation; Now you are constrained by necessity. You will say that the remedy is not yet in season, and that it will be the ruin of your Fortunes: If you die, your Fortunes will be otherwise lost; after Death, Physic is of no use. You will allege this remedy is very hard to digest, and I will answer you that pain is cured by pain, there is no Medicine but is unpleasant; yet to avoid Death you must neither spare searing nor incisions. You will reply that the apple is now much less ripe than at that time, in regard Liante is filled with Gall, not inflamed with Love; then I must tell you, that to quench a Fire People carry Water, and Diseases are cured by their contraries. It is now time or never to open Liante's Eyes, and make him see how much he is to be blamed for entertaining any suspicious or jealous thought of you, Nature having opposed the obstacles you know of to the pretensions, which he believes you have for Amiclea. In sum, I will manage this discovery with such circumspection, that there can arrive no damage to you; For, in sparing you the shame of telling it (the only Subject of all your Sorrow) I will leave you in the power of denying that truth, and rendering ridiculous those that should offer to mention it. At first I will sound Liante by Enigmas, Circumlocutions and Figures; and according as I shall find him by't at that bait, I shall know how to draw him to the Bank; but before I unveil the whole Mystery to him, I will oblige him by such horrible Oaths to keep it secret, that if he should have a desire to reveal it, he cannot without fearing a punishment of Thunder from the Hand of the King of Heaven.  
All this Discourse was so many words of Life to the distressed Iphigenes; and, if an Angel had spoken to him, he could not have heard him with more joy and attention than he did Boleslaüs. Then (pricked with curiosity) saying, But how? The old Man stopped his Mouth with this answer: A Man must never say, I will do this, or I will say that, and in such a manner I will conduct my Design by reason of the incertainty of Events; and the obscurities wherein the Future is involved; But when things have had a good issue, one may say, I have done this, and my design succeeded thus. I will do nothing but what you shall know, yet give me a little liberty, and permit that in imitation of most discreet People, I may do somewhat before I speak. And be assured that this old Man (whom Experience hath no less improved than Age rendered hoary in your service) hath some Masterpieces of subtlety which he employe's not but upon great occasion; and that he who delivered you out of the Prison in the Forest, and freed you from the Claws of those Harpies, will also draw you out of this Mire, if you will follow his Advice with Patience, and resolve to further your own Recovery.  
This said, Boleslaüs went to put in execution his Design, which succeeded to his wish; but not without much trouble, many subtle inventions, and at length a full relation from beginning to end of Iphigenes Birth and Education, as hath already been described; whereby he made Liante see as clear as the Day the reasons that had retarded Iphigenes in the discovery of that Miracle, his design to declare it first to the King, that His Majesty might see how false and impertinent had been the Calumny of his Enviers, and (being reestablished in his favour) the resolution he had to invest Liante in the possession of all his charges and estate, by giving himself to him according to the sacred order of Matrimony.  
This transported Liante with such astonishment for a while, that he knew not whether he was a sleep or waking; yet the serious deportments of the grave Boleslaüs, made him give credit to this Story, and this belief was perfectly confirmed, when he repassed through his Memory all the tokens of Love rather than Friendship, that he had remarked in Iphigenes, his carriage to him in his Infancy, his chaste deportments at the Court, his continual contempt of Women, his incomparable Beauty, his passionate expressions of affection to him in the Forest of Plocens, while the one acted Serife, the other Almeria; besides, divers other Caresses, Wishes, Sighs, Languors, and such like demeanours, the sparkles of that Fire which can as little be concealed as avoided.  
Oh Liante, what glory after so many pains! He that hath long been kept in darkness, coming on a sudden into the Sun is in a manner blind, the Light, which makes every one else see, depriving him of sight: So Liante, though he held as true as Oracles, all that Boleslaüs had told him, yet he remained as void of Speech and Motion as one that's incredulous or stupid. The entrance of his Heart was too narrow to let in at once the throng of affections, that thrust and crowded to be introduced; the multitude of thoughts quelled him; the Honours and greatness proposed to him by that Party were above his Ambition, and beyond his Hopes; his own Patrimony, usurped by Mieslas, seemed nothing to him; But above all, the so many attractive Charms, wherewith Nature had enriched Iphigenes Face, was the Primum Mobile that transported him. Adding thereunto so many rare virtues, so many singular qualities, such Courage, & Valour, which Dexterity in all generous exercises, and chief such exemplary Piety, as rendered him the delight of all those that accosted him, filled him with the Benedictions of Heaven and Earth, begat him an high renown, with the King's favour; which doubtless would be redoubled at the discovery of this marvel; Oh Liante, what transportments? Then reflecting his consideration upon himself, he could not imagine that he had merit enough to oblige Iphigenes to so constant a Friendship, as that, which he had always expressed towards him, loving him from the tenderest of his years with such sweetness and cordiality; after this, returned to his Memory how compassionately in all his troubles he bore a share of his sorrows; how he always maintained his cause against his own Father; conveyed him out of Prison; secured him from the dangers wherewith the Cruelty of Mieslas threatened him; so courteously entertained him in his Palatinate; had given him his Life in the Combat; voluntarily rendered himself a Prisoner to enjoy the contentment of his conversation; and besides all this, the extreme and admirable Modesty, that made him resolve to die rather than speak one word, which he thought too bold for a Soul to utter, that makes profession of Honour, with a numberless multitude of other Virtues, which glittered in that matchless personage like Stars in a serene Night.  
Whilst Liante's brain was agitated with a thousand such imaginations, Boleslaüs reading the convulsions of his Mind by the alterations in his Face, knew not however in what manner he resented what he had told him, and whether he conceived it right or wrong, (whereon depended his Life or Death, and, what was yet more dear, the contentment or ruin of Iphigenes) until Liante breaking the silence of his long amazement thus began; Friend, I am like a Glass or Bottle with a narrow mouth, which being too full of liquor cannot discharge itself. My Spirits are so ravished and over whelmed with the transportments of Joy and Wonder at the recital of so great a marvel, that although I see myself awake, and believe what you tell me, yet methinks I Dream, or am possessed with the fondest imagination that e'er disturbed a Brain. At length after condemning his own demerits, and comparing them with the excellencies of Iphigenes, he continued saying Dear Boleslaüs, I prithee mollify that Hbroick courage for me, which ought justly to be offended with my Levitieses, indiscretion and ingratitude, to the end, according to the Dispositions you shall find in that generous Soul, I may at least endeavour by my Death to express the remorse I now conceive for having so ill ordered my Life, and so unworthily abused his Friendship.  
If you stay till you are killed by one that love's you more than himself, you will live to a fair Age (said Boleslaus) his desire is to see you Live contented, not Die with displeasure; and assure yourself that as his Love was always greater than your Injuries, so your Transgressions are less than his Clemency.  
The variety of thoughts that mustered in Iphigenes mind, whilst Boleslaüs was carrying this Message (whose report was the sentence of his Life or Death) I must leave to your imaginations; Neither am I able to relate the Anxieties of Liante's mind, whilst that trusty Agent flew towards Iphigenes, to tell him in a jesting manner 〈…〉, that Liante took all his Discourse for Enchantments, that he rejected all He had told him of his Birth and Education as a thing no less incredible than improbable.  
At which Narration Iphigenes, ready to expire with grief, said; Father, I would to God my Death had preceded this news; Oh! why did not I descend alive into my Grave? Hereat Boleslaüs clearing the clouds of his Countenance, and bursting into a laughter, said, I told you thus only to try your constancy; take courage, the Victory is ours; I bring you Liante more gentle than a Lamb, he comes to present his throat to your hand that you may Sacrifice him to your Revenge. He believe's all that I have told; him only the despair of obtaining pardon for his ingratitude to you, hindering him from coming to demand it in person, he hath made me his Ambassador. Then having related every particular passage betwixt him and Liante, and disposed Iphigenes to receive him, He presently went to conduct him into the Prisoner's Chamber.  
Liante was so sensible of having disobliged so admirable a constancy as that of Iphigenes, that he approached his Bed with no less throbbing of Heart and confusion of thoughts, than if he had been going to receive the punishment of some heinous Crime: And shame raised tumults not much less disorderly in Iphigenes mind, seeing himself necessitated to acknowledge what he had so long kept from the World's notice.  
He that had beheld the penctentiall tears of the one, and the modest blushes of the other, would have thought he had seen red Roses impearled with the dew of Heaven. I had rather confess my ignorance than embark myself in the relation of Passions, which must be consigned to Silence, since he that would express their mutual satisfactions must be transformed into the Resentments of their Souls. Those two Hearts opened themselves so perfectly to each other in the presence of the Old Man, Depositary of all their thoughts, that there remained nothing that might oppose the perfection of their chaste Love. There full reparations were made by Liante, and his Excuses received by Iphigenes: There absolute Remissions cast all offences into Oblivion; There Iphigenes charging herself with one part of the fault for having concealed her Secret so long from her dear Liante, and Liante accusing himself to excuse Iphigenes, bred a sweet contention which pacified all other quarrels. There were made all the Promises, and plighted all the Faiths necessary to swear an inviolable Fidelity. There Suspicions, Diffidence, umbrages, Choler, and all other Failings were so buried, that the wounds left only scars in show that they had been.  
In conclusion, to hid the blazing of this mutual Fire from other's view, it was decreed in their secret Council (whereof Boleslaüs was the Precedent) that Liante feigning not to desire to force Amiclea's will, should seem to have cured himself of her Contempt by Despite, and turn his affection towards Oloria, in compassion of her Sufferings, and for consideration of her Constancy rather than her Beauty. As for Iphigenes (all Obstacles and Scruples being now taken away) It was judged convenient that he should make open profession of caressing and serving Amiclea, not without some handsomely contrived inventions for the deferring his re-search until the treaty of Peace was concluded. And to render their Design less perceptible, they added this industry, That Liante should continue in his dissatisfaction of Iphigenes, and (although absolutely free from Passion for Amiclea) should however still make a show of Jealousy, at least of Envy and Choler against him, as having rob him of that lady's Heart, which he pretended.  
As they resolved, so was it executed: Insomuch that Oloria became no less contented to see him (who had so much despised her) make his addresses to her, than Amiclea to see herself delivered of his importunities, just as she was upon the point of rendering herself to the imperious compulsion of her Parents. But when she knew it was to give Iphigenes the place, whose mutual Love was the height of her Desires, you may imagine, in that condition, if she could refrain from telling her Mother (Iphigenes having enjoined her to keep it secret, purposely that she should divulge it;) and her Mother, being a Woman, could not hold long from acquainting her Husband, which raised his thoughts to the Skies, being carried upon the Wings of the Hope he conceived to have the Favourite of Polonia for his Son-in-Law.  
This imagination contributed not a little to the advancement of the King's service, and the public Peace. For Olavius having great credit in the Lithuanian Party, induced them to submit to divers of the King's Demands, desiring to conclude the Peace, that those alliances might be brought to perfection.  
Whilst our Lovers swum in the contentment of their reciprocal affections, the World, which, like the Sea, hath nothing more constant than its inconstancy, and whose most fair days are the least certain, prepared them an horrible Tempest. The King, at the return of his Physicians, being informed of Iphigenes recovery, dispatched Deputies from his Council to the Camp, with a Commission to Iphigenes to treat with them and the principal Officers of his Army, concerning an agreement with the Lithuanians, and the general Peace. Hereupon there was a Cessation of Arms on both sides, seconded by a Truce for certain days; during which time those of the Besieger's Army went freely into Minsce, and the Besieged had liberty to go into the Camp, or where else they listed. Iphigenes, with the Commissioners of the Lithuanians, going daily into the Camp to treat with the King's Officers, had advanced their affairs to such a forwardness as promised an happy conclusion: But when they came to the Article, that concerned the re-establishment of Liante in his Estate, endeavouring to content the Palatine of Podolia (who could not be persuaded to that restitution) by means of an alliance betwixt that young Nobleman and one of his Daughters, the furious Sarmatian refusing to consent to either, re-entertained in his brutal Mind the desire of executing upon Liante that barbarous Design we have already mentioned, and which cannot be rehearsed without shame. For this effect he set his Engines on work, who were not so secret in the Conduct of their business, but Iphigenes had notice of their proceed; And being informed that contrary to the public Faith this enterprise was to be attempted at his retreat into Minsce, (where as being a Prisoner he was obliged to render himself every Night) he implored the General of the King's Army's succour to hinder that violence. Which was effected according to his desire, Liante being retired into the Castellain of Cracovia's Quarters, who in despite of Mieslas ambushes caused him to be safely convoyed into Minsce, Iphigenes still accompanying him, with a resolution to treat his own Father like an Enemy, if he had come to assault them. This so enraged Mieslas, that the next day he resolved to be revenged of his Son; therein not much unlike an irritated Mastif, who bite's the stone not being able to reach him that threw it. And in effect when he thought to return, after the Assembly, according to his Custom into the City, Mieslas seized on him, saying, that as a perfidious Traitor to the King and Public, he would sacrifice him to Example, and like a brutal and unnatural Brutus make him die by his own hands in the view of the whole Army. Iphigenes who knew that such an execution could not be done without the forms of Justice, and besides feeling himself innocent, submitted without resistance, desiring that they would execute upon his person all the cruelties they could imagine, if they found him guilty of any  Action towards his Prince or Country. This was only a pretence which Mieslas had framed to effect what you shall hear.  
The rumour of Iphigenes affections to Amiclea, and the report of their Marriage being noised through the City of Minsce, by the communication of the Besiegers with the Besieged during the Truce, the Royal Camp was filled with this news, and at last it came to the Palatine of Podolia's Ears. This incensed him with the greatest indignation against his Son, that he had ever yet conceived; nothing being more sensible to Parents, than when their Children marry against their Wills, and match themselves with persons whom they think not fit for them. Hereupon he took occasion to detain his Son, and accuse him of Treason against the Polonians, because he was about to contract an Alliance with the Lithuanians. Besides, being a Man of Blood and Slaughter, he produced divers Arguments against the Treaty of Peace, and hating mortally the Lithuanians, he could not endure that they should participate, as Compatriots, of the honours of the Crown of Polonia, which was the principal point of all the Treaty. Insomuch that desiring to hinder this agreement, he took this pretence of keeping his Son, knowing that those of Minsce would presently take Arms hereupon, and so the Truce should be broken.  
As he presupposed, it succeeded; For, immediately the Lithuanians shut their Gates, enclosing and keeping Prisoners no small number of the Royal Army, besides those that were delivered as hostages for the person of Iphigenes. This bred much confusion and tumults on both sides: Whereunto Mieslas added this stratagem.  
There were certain Soldiers, who for some crimes were condemned to Execution. One of these he caused to be clad with a Suit of the same colour of that Iphigenes then wore, and the next Morning, having commanded a Scaffold to be raised in sight of the whole Camp and City, he gave out that with his own hand he would cut off his Son's head, for being a Traitor to His Majesty. The fatal hour being come, he drew up all his own quarters in Battalia; then having ordered the Criminal to be set upon the Scaffold, and clothed the Executioner with an habit not unlike his own, by this spectacle he intended to take away from those of the City all hopes of re-possessing Iphigenes, by whom they expected much favour from the King in the conclusion of the Peace.  
Iphigenes being kept close Prisoner in a Chamber, knew nothing of all this; But what became Liante at this deplorable sight? What Amiclea? what Olavius? what the Palatine of Troc? What all the Ladies? What all the Inhabitants of Minsce? It was then no time to sit in consultation; all of what quality soever demanded a Sally, which could be no more refused by the Palatines that commanded, than a passage hindered to the fury of an impetuous Torrent.  
Liante like the Poet's desperate Coroebus, seeing his Cassandra dragging to the Block, placed himself at the head of this resolute Party; and flying out of the City-gates with no less fury than a fell Lioness hastes from her Den to rescue her stolen Whelps, filling the whole Forest with her horrid roaring, precipitated himself to seek Death in the thickest of the enemy's Squadrons, being resolved to die a thousand times or save Iphigenes Life.  
If all things else give place to Love, it was verified at that time; for, if the assault was violent on the Lithuanian's part, the resistance was but weak on the Polonians, in regard divers Soldiers (not well pleased to see their companion executed) made way forth Assailers, and gave them so clear passage by their flight, partly Voluntary, partly Forced, that Liante arrived at the Scaffold as sudden as a flash of Lightning; where terribly slashing th' Executioner (whom he took to be Mieslas) he thought at the same time to rid himself of a mortal Enemy and save the Life of a Person whom he esteemed the dearest in the World. But having found out the deceit, he ceased not to end the Hangman, and set the Criminal at Liberty, having cut the Cords that bond him, and given him an opportunity to escape in the Throng.  
Never were greater feats of Arms seen done by Man, than those which Despair, Love and Anger produced from Liante in this Action, thinking he had fought in the presence of the person beloved, whom he desired to give the strongest proof of affection that is betwixt Mortals (which is) to lay down his own Life to preserve another's.  
Mieslas, who suspected they would make a Sally, had prepared himself with a considerable Party of Horse to intercept them in their retreat, and enclose them between the Army and his Men. But having a bad Cause, and a cruel Resolution to cut them all off, especially Liante, if he fell into his hands, his Enterprise turned to his own confusion, and he found himself entrapped in his own snares. For, they, having released the Criminal, another strong Party was sent out of Minsce to secure the former, and facilitate their retreat. Insomuch that Mieslas and his Men being engaged betwixt both Parties, the Soldiers were almost all killed, his Horse was shot under him, and he being wounded in the Thigh, besides bruised with a fall, and loaden with Arms, was constrained, with an incredible Despair, to render himself Prisoner, and remit his Life to the mercy of Liante, who threatened him with the cruelest of Deaths, if it appeared that he had attempted any thing against Iphigenes.  
Mieslas to save his Life assured Liante, that Iphigenes had no other harm than to be locked up in a Chamber, and that he had devised that Plot to execute a Criminal in his place, thereby to spare his Ransom, and hinder the alliance he intended to make with the Lithuanians. Upon this assurance Liante having commanded him to be slung upon an Horse, led him with divers others in Triumph through the City. To express the shame and rage of that brutal Podolian would require terms that never yet were heard.  
As there were divers Polonians taken, so there were some Lithuanians that remained as pledges in the King's Camp, aswell of those that had engaged too far in the enemy's Quarters, as those that were shut out of the Gates of Minsce; lest among Friends they should likewise let in Enemies, as is often seen in like occurrences. Among the rest was found a Gentleman extremely young, and whose marvellous beauty attracted the Eyes of every one, exciting much more Envy than Pity, and much more Pity than Anger. He was led to the General, who wondered that he had taken Arms at such tender years. After some demands he desired they would give him leave to see Iphigenes, who (he believed) would know him, having seen him in Minsce. The General commanded his desire should be satisfied: Do you ask if the Palatine of Plocens was astonished to see that there was more than one Lady in the Army that bore Arms?  
This was the pretty Amiclea, who upon the news of Iphigenes Execution had taken a sudden resolution to die, or revenge the Death of him whom she loved with so much Passion. And seeing that all sorts of People took Arms to follow Liante in that expedition; shall a Lover (said she to herself) be said to have less courage and fidelity than a Friend? No, no, I must, I will die gloriously; for, to survive such a loss is a thing impossible for Amiclea. In this Resolution she went to her Brother Polemander's Armoury, and having taken one of his Suits of apparel with an Armour, she mounted one of her Father's best Horses, the Servants thinking her to be Polemander; and in this equipage she ranked herself among those that sallied, and engaged so far among the Enemies, that she remained Prisoner.  
This was a singular testimony of Affection and Generosity; and Iphigenes feigning to requite this Obligation by consummating of her hopes, was grieved at the Soul that he could not recompense so great a Love as he could have desired. If there was much joy within Minsce for the taking of Mieslas, and a great deal of glory for the triumphing Liante, there was no less sorrow for the loss of Amiclea; no body could give an account what was become of her, neither should they ever have imagined she had done what she did; Some were of opinion that her Love for Iphigenes might perchance, through Despair, have made her make away herself in some secret Place, a violent remedy, yet frequently enough practised by weak Spirits.  
She was sought for in every corner, but found not where; every one lamented her loss, but the sad Parents above all, in respect that being assured of Iphigenes Life they lost by this means the hope of an alliance, which they held infallible by the imprisonment of Mieslas, and the promise of Iphigenes. Who being set at liberty by express command from the Castellain of Cracovia, General of the King's Army, took Amiclea with him to his Tent; where being presently admitted, He said, Seigneur Castellain, I beseech you do not refuse me one grace that I shall demand at your hands.  
Seigneur Palatine, answered the General, since the King denies you nothing, I should be very ill advised not to agree to any thing that you shall be pleased to desire within the compass of that Power which His Majesty hath committed to me, especially being enjoined by particular Letters from him to give full credence to your Counsels.  
My Request (replied Iphigenes) is only that you will give me this Prisoner, who is of such quality, that I hope to get my Father exchanged for him. Sir, (answered the General) you may dispose of him as you shall think fit, the Palatine, your Father, is the only cause of his Misfortune: For, against all the Laws of Arms, having violated the Truce, he is but justly fallen into the Ditch which he had digged for the Besieged.  
My Lord (said Iphigenes) his particular disaster will be a benefit to the Public; For, whilst he is in the Lithuanian's hands, we shall be better able to conclude the Treaty of Peace according to His majesty's command, and renew the Truce. Mean time you shall see that this pretty Prisoner's Eyes are more redoubtable than his Sword, and that naked he is more powerful than armed; with that lifting up Amiclea's Head-piece, a long Tress of golden hair fell about her shoulders: And judge you (continued he) if I could perish being defended by such fair hands, It is not needful to relate the astonishment of those that were present at this agreeable Spectacle, where Love and Loyalty appeared in a new equipage. If divers would have esteemed themselves happy to serve so exquisite a Beauty, how happy ought they to account Iphigenes, who was beloved and served by her with such proofs of Affection?  
The Palatine of Plocens word obliging him to render himself prisoner again to the Lithuanians, besides his own inclinations, and the desire he had to free his Hostages from further trouble (of whom Pisides was one) he returned with his pretty Champion; who not daring to appear before her Parents in that manner, desired Iphigenes to make her Peace, before she came in their sight. His excuses for Amiclea's disguisement were so well received, that Olavius and his Wife commended her for that adventure as an Heroic Act, and which would afterwards make her be reckoned among the Amazons.  
Mieslas being shut up, like a mad wild Beast, in a Tower (where for his Son's sake he was treated according to his Quality) the Treaty of Peace went forwards. The Truce was reestablished more free than before: the King disowned Mieslas for having acted against the Law of Arms, and sent a Plenipotentiary power to Iphigenes to agree with the Lithuanians.  
During this Conference there was nothing but Sports, Tournaments, Dance, Comedies, Banquets, and all sorts of rejoicing of both Parties, infallible presages of an happy Peace. Among other Plays represented at the Castle of Minsce, for the recreation of the Besieged, and those of the Camp that came to visit them, Liante commanded the Players to act the Tragedy of Iphigenia, Agamemnon's Daughter, as being a lively Image of that which had passed in the deliverance of the Criminal, who should have been executed in the place of Iphigenes: Wherein there was not any of the Spectators so dull, but easily comprehended that the Hind placed in Iphigeniae's stead, represented the poor Soldier whom Mieslas made pass for Iphigenes; that the Anger of the Goddess offended for her Stag, expressed the indignation of the King for the imprisoning of his Favourite; every one interpreted this Emblem according to his own fancy; But no body could conceive that the Marriage of Pylades with Iphigenia, had any relation to our Lovers, and that Orestes being cured of the Furies, signified the appeasing of Mieslas Fury: Yet He began to be more tame, seeing himself a Prisoner. And as there is no man so covetous, who will not be prodigal of his Estate to save his Life, the Proposition of restoring to Liante what he had so long detained from him, and giving him one of his Daughters in Marriage, seemed no more so strange to him.  
There is no Creature so daunted as a Wolf, when he is catcht in a snare; nothing so tractable as a cruel Man, when he is in his enemy's power. This fierce Palatine condescended to whatsoever they would, esteeming it a favour if Liante (quitting the pretensions he had to Clemencia, whom he had promised to the Prince Cassin) would take any of his other Daughters, leaving him the benefit of his Estate during his Life. But Liante seemed to slight his Offers, not to give any occasion of distaste to the Palatine of Minsce, who was desirous to make him his Son-in-law.  
Mean time the Article for the restitution of Liante's Estate passed among the Commissioners of the Treaty of Peace, which at length was concluded by the diligence and dexterity of Iphigenes, who had all the glory of that good Office. This Treaty being ratified by the King, the Peace was proclaimed with incomparable rejoicings on both sides. That done, the Siege was forthwith raised, the Soldiers disbanded, Arms laid down, the Prisoners released, and Mieslas got off better cheap than he expected.  
Iphigenes was immediately repealed to the Court; where both their Majesties burned with impatience to see him crowned with Olive-branches interwoven with Laurels and Palms. There he promised Olavius to use his endeavours to procure the King's consent to his marriage with Amiclea, and Liante's to Oloria; which the Palatine of Minsce held for a singular obligation, and the two Sisters were infinitely pleased. The joys of Cracovia at the beautiful Palatine's return, may be guessed by the regrets of the inhabitants of Minsce, who by his absence thought they endured a perpetual Eclipse, and could almost have wished that the War had still continued, to have enjoyed the happiness of possessing him longer.  
To relate the Pomp and Magnisicence of Iphigene's reception, were to undertake the description of a great King's entrance into some Metropolitan City. For, as the King, to show that the sending him into his Palatinate, was a reason of State rather than a disgrace, would have his Courtiers accompany him when he left the Court; At his return he commanded all those that desired to please him, should go to meet him, that the World might see he reentered more in his favour, than he was before; and that if formerly he had loved him by inclination, than he cherished him for Reason, and (if a Subject can oblige his Sovereign) by obligation. So, all those of the Court went to receive him at a good distance from the City; even his Enemies, who saw themselves his Footstool, rendered him that Devoir; and although they had done him all the ill Offices they could devise, they prudently covered under Dissimulation the Despite which gnawed their Hearts.  
Mieslas besides his re-purchased Liberty was ravished to see so many Laurels shadowing his Son's Temples, and so many Praises and Benedictions showering down upon his head; conceiving that he had a share in those applauses, in regard a virtuous Son is a Crown to his Father. His Sister Clemencia, who for his sake was much cherished by the Queen, could not contain her joy to see her Brother appear like the Sun crowned with Rays.  
As there was no interest that touched Iphigenes heart so near as that of Liante, his re-establishment was one of the first things he moved to the King; and having made His Majesty see into his intentions, and consider the Despair which had enforced him to cast himself among the Lithuanians, with an advantageous representation of what he had contributed, for His majesty's service, to the Treaty of Peace, the King (who was a very gracious Prince) received him into Grace, and promised Iphigenes not only to revoak the confiscation of his Estate, but to re-establish him therein, and contribute to the augmenting of his Fortune according as occasions should be presented. This was a good beginning for Liante, who participated more than any other of the influences of his beautiful Star.  
But shall we say nothing of the contentment of the Princess Respicia, who was now arrived at the top of her Desires? For, she had received from Rome the dispensation that was required to make the Marriage of Iphigenes with Modestina be declared void; Insomuch that relying upon her beloved Palatine's promise she held the consummation of here's unquestionable.  
It is not my design to describe here the manner of the King's and Queen's entertainments and reception of Iphigenes, the pleasure of the Ladies, and the joy of the whole Court at the appearance of that welcome Sun upon the Horizon of Cracovia. I shall only say that their Majesties, being cured of the suspicions which the Malice of his Enviers had cast into their Souls, conspired who should give the greatest testimonies of Benevolence to him, whom the voice of the People (which is commonly that of God) styled the PEACE MAKER of POLONIA, the RECONCILER of the POLONIANS and LITHUANIANS, the ANGEL of PEACE, the GLORY of his Country, the HONOUR of his Family, and the JOY of all his Compatriots.  
They often consulted together with what worthy recompense they should requite the Services and Merits of such a subject: At length not being able to offer him any part of that Kingdom (whereof they had only the use, not the propriety) they believed that nothing could oblige his Noble spirit so much as some eminent Alliance, that might approach him to their Parentage and the Honour of their Blood. So, whether it was their own motion, or whether the Princess Florimunda, the King's Sister, had spoken any thing to the Queen, having taken her part of the Court-vertigo by the infection of Iphigenes eyes, yet had through Modesty concealed her affection; Which way soever it happened, they determined to give him the Infanta in marriage with a dowry suitable to her quality.  
In the presence of this great Star neither Modestina, Respicia, Amiclea, nor any of the rest whose pretensions being hidden, their flames were the more violent, appeared with any lustre; there was nothing but Despair in their Hearts, Sobs in their breasts, Sighs in their Mouths, and Tears in their Eyes. But how, think you, was Iphigenes surprised, when the King, in presence of the Queen, told him in his closet the honour he intended to do him, making him his Brother-in-Law by giving him his own Sister to Wife?  
At which words he fell upon his knees before their Majesties, and represented to them all the arguments he could devise to divert them from that Design, which he assured them would be as ruinons to him as honourable; For, That lifting him aloft as the Eagle doth the Tortoize, threatened him with a fatal fall; That being raised from a Molehill to a Mountain, that Eminency would expose him to the outrageous Tempests, and Thunderclaps of Envy and Detraction; that thereby he should become the Blank and Butt of all the wounding Tongues of those, who having seen him their equal would cast despiteful glances upon the elevation of his Fortune. That he knew not how the Lady Infanta herself stood inclined, who perchance would be unwilling to abase herself so low as to marry a private Gentleman, who was nothing in the World but what it pleased His Majesty to make him. That competent Fortunes, as the most certain, were the most desirable. That he beseeched His Majesty to consider, his Enemies would attribute to his Ambition, what proceeded from his Royal Benevolence. That he was too conscious of his own mean condition to entertain a thought of lifting his Eyes towards a Subject of so high a Dignity, whose too great lustre would dazzle him in stead of giving him light. Therefore he conjured His Majesty to preserve in him the work of his own hands, and not render him unhappy by too much happiness. That as Lamps (if over-filled with Oil) go out, So Fortunes that are too vast commonly come to nothing. That queasy stomaches ought not to be overcharged with Meat, nor weak-braines with much Wine: That the Fabric ought to be proportionable to the Foundation, lest it should fall to the ground by its own weight. That this were to set a Statue of Gold and Silver upon a Pedestal of Clay, and expose him to the fury of all the Grandees jealousies, in stead of sheltering him from their rages. And for his last Reason he reserved his Marriage with Modestina, after which (he having concluded with the humblest supplications, and the most endearing Conjurations he could invent to turn away that tempest from him:) The King answered gravely in these words.  
That all his Reasons were full of Humility, Modesty, Fidelity, and Prudence, but yet they ought to submit to his Command. That such was his Will, which he could not resist without Crime. That it was the Propriety of Kings, and the greatest point of their resemblance to God, to raise the poor out of the Mud, and place them among the Princes and most considerable Persons of their Kingdoms: Otherwise the Little ones would never become Great, and the wheel of Fortune would remain without motion. That Virtues were more desirable and estimable than Birth, and since they made the first Nobility, and that by them in the beginning of Monarchies were seated upon Thrones those that had most merit, it was but reasonable to prefer them before Sceptres and Diadems. That his Sister's mind was but too well known to him, who (besides that she was ready to submit in all things to his Will) had a particular inclination to him, which made her desire that Marriage. That in stead of being abased, she would esteem herself exalted, and in stead of losing her glory by that alliance, she would communicate her splendour to him. That had it been in his Power to have given him a part of his Kingdom, he would have done it as a testimony of his affection and gratitude: But, having no Crown more illustrious than that of his Blood, he had determined to give him the Infanta Florimunda with means sufficient to maintain so honourable a Consanguinity. That this Match in stead of exposing to, would exempt him from the Malice of his Enviers, by the same reason as the Stars are exempted from Eclipses by their elevation and distance from the Earth. That during his Reign he ought not to fear any retrogradation or Declining of Fortune, in regard He was a Prince that did not take pleasure in destroying his own Creatures; besides the assurance his opinion gave him that Iphigenes, by the Prudence of his conduct, would give his Sovereign no such occasion. That He would so establish him, that after his decease, no power of Polonia should be able to diminish his Grandeurs. As for his Marriage with Modestina, he replied, that it was declared void by a Breviat sent from Rome to the Arch bishop of Gnesna to be notified in public; which having been procured by the Princess Respicia, should serve for the Infanta Florimunda. The King ended his Speech with Such is our absolute WILL and PROPER MOTION, which are terms so sovereign and sacred, that the Oath of the fabulous Deities by the River Styx was not more inviolable.  
The Queen added hereunto her persuasions mingled with entreaties, & such certain testimonies of the Infanta's affection to Iphigenes, that it plainly appeared to proceed as much from the Princess' own soliciting, as their Majesty's deliberation. Insomuch that the fair Palatine was enforced to yield to so many sweetly imperious violences, and receive with acknowledgements full of modest bashfulness, what he could not refuse without highly offending their Majesties, and irritating the Infanta beyond hope of Pardon. Neither had he been so indiscreet, if Nature had not opposed to that eminent Fortune the obstacles you already know: Which he was even ready to declare to the King and Queen; But considering that she (how great soever in Dignity) was yet of that Sex, to which Prudence forbids the revealing of any secret without deliberation, he forbore, reserving that manifestation to the King only, whose authority and advise he intended to implore for the effecting of his intentions.  
The Queen was no sooner gone forth, but she met the Infanta, who was as impatient to know the result of their Mediation, as the other was to tell her it; whereof Florimunda conceived such joy as cannot be comprehended but by a full-ripe Virgin, who receive's an assurance of marrying him whom she love's with passion. After the Queen's departure, lest the rumour of his marriage with the Infanta should be noised about the Court, Iphigenes judged it requisite to squeeze the Scorpion upon the wound, and apply speedily the remedy to that growing mischief.  
So, having beseeched the King to give him a private Audience, wherein he promised to discover the most marvellous History he ever yet had heard, He related him that of his Birth, Sex, Education, Elevation, Progress, Fortune, and unparalleled affection to Liante; in sum, he concealed nothing from his Master, of all the remarkable passages expressed in this Narration; and at the close of his recital, casting himself at his feet, embracing and kissing them, and washing them with his tears, he humbly besought His Majesty to look on him as his poor and unworthy Creature, and dispose of his Fortune according to his good pleasure.  
The King's astonishment at this strange Story can less be described, than a flash of Lightning, or the Sun shine be represented in painting. His admiration was such, that he remained a long while without being able to speak but with his Eyes, which were fixed with much amiableness upon Iphigenes. This first assault wanted not much of converting his Amitre into Amorousness and making his Favourite become not his Master, but his Mistress. Yet His Majestic's old Age which invited him to Temperance, his singular affection to the Queen, (who reigned over his Heart by her Virtues, as much as he ov●● 〈◊〉 Subjects by his authority) the Fear he had of resuscitating her Jealousy, and making her believe as truths her former suspicions, together with the long practice and deep rooting his Soul had taken in Piety and Moderation, suppressed the impetuosity of his desires. But nothing bridled him more powerfully than the extraordinary Modesty he had always observed in Iphigenes, knowing that to be a Rock against which all unjust pretensions would suffer Shipwreck; Besides, reading at that same instant in that lovely Face such chaste Characters, and so severe a sweetness as stifled in their Birth all licentious imaginations.  
In this occurrence it would be an injustice to conceal the due praises of that Prince, who made a Buckler of virtue against the weapons which Love, hidden within Iphigenes Eyes, treacherously darted against his Heart. But to deny that the affection, which rendered Iphigenes his Favourite, was much increased, by the discovery of his condition, cannot be, without taking from so virtuous a Prince the quality (which is common to all great Persons) of being extremely courteous to Ladies.  
I will not extend myself in relating the Protestations the King made to preserve him in his Favour and Friendship, notwithstanding this Change; nor the praises of his Beauty which were as extraordinary as the subject was beyond Nature's ordinary compositions. At last after divers Caresses and Compliments, accompanied with thanks and resentments of obligation to the deserving Iphigenes, His Majesty conjured him to declare freely and fully his desires, promising by the Faith of a Prince to endeavour the effecting of them to the utmost of his Royal power.  
Hereupon Iphigenes illuminating his Beauty with a lively and graceful vermilion, which or'e-spread his cheeks; confessed to His Majesty That after the glory of his Benevolence, the height of his desires was the legitimate possession of his beloved Liante. How chaste & warrantable soever are the flames of honourable Virgins, it is impossible for them to acknowledge their Loves without painting their Faces with those Colours which render the Aurora so agreeable; as if it were as great an imperfection in them to love, as it is a perfection to be lovely. The King perceived by that livery of virtue the chastity of that generous spirit, which increased his esteem of Iphigenes. And being informed how that Passion had taken its birth in a manner from their Cradles, that a mutual inclination had given it Being, Nourished, Entertained, and Elevated it to its perfect state, he thought it a renouncing of all Humanity to disapprove so legitimate an Affection.  
Then, having demanded of Iphigenes in what manner he should manage the discovery of that secret, which would astonish not only all Polonia, but the whole Universe; our Amazon, who had principally premeditated that part, gave His Majesty the Overtures; which he approved in all their circumstances, according as shall be declared in the Sequel of this Declaration. Only to hinder the design the King had for his Sister from being divulged, it was thought expedient to apply a speedy remedy, and raze the Passion out of that Princess' heart, by making her believe that Iphigenes was incapable of performing the Rites of Marriage: (an Opinion able to befrost the most ardent flames.)  
This invention the King found very pertinent, and to execute it subtilely he went to the Queen, who had already made the ordinary congratulations of joyful news to the Infanta (but with the seal wherewith Ladies are accustomed to close their secrets, that is, a prayer to say nothing, as if a third Person were obliged to conceal that which they cannot keep in their own breasts:) And Florimunda had so well and discreetly kept this agreeable tidings, that she had already communicated it to all her Gentlewomen, but with the same caution as the Queen had told it her; and they all promised her to be silent, but with this reservation, when they had no body to speak unto. Presently among themselves there was no other discourse than of their Mistress' sudden marriage, and the more their Tongues itched to be tattling, the stricter their Command was not to mention it.  
The King not knowing that the Queen had been so forward, told her that Iphigenes had acquainted him with other matters than what was spoken in her presence; and he was now fully satisfied, that those many Excuses and Conjurations, which he had made to them not to press him to marry the Infanta, proceeded not from any want of Desire, (he not being so blind as not to see the advantages he should receive by so glorious an alliance) but from a natural disability to answer the expectations of a Bride. For proof whereof he alleged to her the non-consummation of his Marriage with Modestina, besides that extraordinary Continence which he had always showed at the Court, opposing such cold reservedness to the flames of so many Ladies, that burned so inexpressibly for his Beauty.  
The Queen amazed at this news, was sorry she had so soon given her Sister-in-law joy of a Contentment, that was vanished  possess't, like Lightning which dies assoon as it is born. After some ingenious (but not offensive) reproaches to the King for his former jealousies of her, and having condoled that defect of Nature in so beautiful a person, Her Majesty continued; But that which troubles me most is the consideration of your Sister, who will find no small pain to cure herself of her Passion, and must sigh in vain for an imperfection beyond remedy. It is easy (replied the King) to pluck up a Plant but newly set, and dispossess her heart of a Passion, which hath yet searce taken Root.  
● perceive (answered the Queen) that you are a stranger to your Sister's thoughts; she confessed to me when I pressed her to discover her resentments, that long before the fair Palatine left the Court, she had great inclinations to affect him. But the respect she bore you, with that which she owed to her own quality, hindered her from disclosing her mind; the greatness of her courage, proceeding from her Birth and Virtue, vanquished her Desires; and although the violence of her Passion was extreme, she would rather have buried its impetuosity under the Ashes of Death, than have rendered it visible to the prejudice of her Modesty. But assoon as she understood that your intentions concurred with what she desired more than she hoped for, she declared herself, the readiness of her obedience proceeding as much from her own interest as her respect to you. I have already wished her happiness in the accomplishment of her desires by the Consent of Iphigenes, so that now I know not how to carry her the sad news of the Death of her Hopes, and the Funeral of her Contentments. But this I must enjoin you (answered the King) For, since you have committed the fault by your precipitation, it concerns you to repair it.  
How the Princess Flormunda was afflicted when the Queen made her this recantation, I must leave to your Conjectures. But as the Passions which terminate in the Sense, lose their Effect and force in the privation of the Cause which gave them Being (like Bees that leave their lives with their stings) It was no very difficult matter for the Infanta to cure herself of a Disease, which brought its remedy in the acknowledgement of his infirmity. (The ardours of those who are inflamed for the Beauty of an agreeable Face, are quenched assoon as any Sickness hath withered the flowers of that Complexion, or any Accident rendered the shape deformed: And those who covet Marriage for the enjoyment of Pleasures, which of unlawful are thereby rendered honourable, easily quit their weaned from the Hope of possessing what they desire.)  
Florimunda nevertheless prudently dissembled her regret, and having in effect nothing that troubled her so much as that she had discovered her Passion too openly, she laboured all she could to beget a belief in those to whom she had communicated it, that it had been more to comply with the King, than for any inclination of her own, that she had entertained the thought of Marrying Iphigenes; And that His Majesty, (like a kind Brother, being unwilling to press her to a thing which she had given him to understand was as little agreeable as advantageous to her,) had desisted importuning or therein, expecting some more eminent Alliance.  
All this could not be carried so secretly, but that the Wind whispered it in the Ears of the Princess Respicia, who (upon intelligence of the King's Design of Marrying his Sister with Iphigenes, besides the rumour of his impotency) took the alarm so hot, that her Mind, tormented with several resentments, endured no less agitation than a Ship tossed in the contention betwixt the Winds and tide. At length she did like those that the Tempest drives against the Rocks, who save their Lives in seeing their Vessel split. She fancied to herself that the Palatine, being more jealous of maintaning the promise he had made her, than ambitious of the Honour that was proposed him by Marrying Florimunda, had invented that Plot to dispense himself hand somely of that alliance, which would have exposed him to the Envy of all the Grandees. And, as Desire is a grand Master of Persuasion, she easily believed what she desired. Reasons were not wanting to confirm this Belief. For, she had never observed any thing in Iphigenes, but what was Generous. The proofs of his valour were not unknown to any but strangers; All Polonia had seen him perform Exploits of War, which Fame had not Tongues enough to celebrate. If he was so able for Mars, could he be inept for Her whom Vulcan surprised with that God? This is a Charity which his Enemies do him (said She not without Sighs) because he hath the Face of an Angel, they say he is no Man; and his Enviers call him Effeminate; suppose he be so, is he the less fir for Women? That he hath not accosted Modestina, was because Mieslas always hindered him. It is upon the delicacy of his Complexion that they have built this Lye.  
Thus did the abused Princess flatter herself in her own misfortune, being resolved to see the effect of the Dispensation, which she had procured from Rome with so much trouble. Having conjured Iphigenes herself, and solicited him by Mieslas to make good his word to her; his answer still was, that his first Marriage being declared void, he would marry her if she were so contented: Hereupon She importuned daily the Archbishop to produce her Dispensation, which was in his hands. But nothing in this case could be done in the absence of Modestina, whom (notwithstanding all the oppositions Mieslas could make) the King (incited thereto by Iphigenes) commanded to be sent for to the Court. With her came Aretuza, Mother to Iphigenes, who though faithfully advertised of all these passages by Iphigenes and Boleslaüs, was ready to die with Fear, distrusting the success of that strange Discovery.  
To repeat the reproaches Modestina made to her fair Husband, the injurious terms she gave Respicia, and the reolution she took to oppose herself till Death against the dissolution of her Marriage, I esteem needless. He that can imagine the resentments of a Wife affronted in that manner, may guests how far her Choler transported Her.  
On the other side Olavius having intelligence of the Princess Respicia's pretensions, of the arrival of the Dispensation, and of Modestina's and Aretuza's coming to Court, conceived (for the interest of his Daughter) that he was obliged to carry her thither. So, with his Wife, Polemander, his two Daughters Oloria and Amiclea, he took his way to Cracovia, to see if he could accomplish the two alliances which he had projected with Liante and Iphigenes.  
The Prince Cassin resolved to keep himself reserved in the research of Clemencia, until he saw the success of his Mother's pretensions. Simphorosa, his Sister, grew every day in Bigness and Beauty, but she was yet so tender, that although she was capable of breeding desires in others, she was not of entertaining any in herself; And by reason of her youth and attractive sweetness, she was called in the Court the Fair INNOCENT.  
There was no body but the King, Iphigenes, Aretuza, Liante and Boleslaüs that knew the Stratagem, which was then to be put in execution in the face of all the Court.  
Liante being importuned by Oloria, gave her not much satisfaction, but remitting himself to the King's will, and deferring her until he were reestablished in the Estate, which the Palatine of Podolia detained from him, he amused her expectation. The King to prepare all things for his design, made Mieslas condescend to give Liante of all his Daughters (except Clemencia) her whom he should fancy most, promising to give her a portion himself, and leave him the use of Liante's Estate during Life. It was not hard to persuade the Sarmatian to embrace this offer, whereby (besides the great advantages that accrued to him) he saw all sorts of Enmity, Hatred, and Contention cease. As for those that were immured in the Cloister, their Veils (besides their natural deformities) were as a Buckler against all Worldly pretensions. So that there was no remedy but to produce Virgenia (who for her resemblance of Face and Fashion to Iphigenes was commonly called Iphigenia, yet the World knew her not till then to be Mieslas Daughter.)  
Against all the oppositions Oloria could make to hinder this alliance, the King's authority served for a defence and excuse for Liante; and although the Palatine of Minsce murmured against this proceeding, he was enforced to give over his suit, the supreme Law being the Prince's Will.  
That being thus determined, the next question was to which of these three Graces Iphigenes should appertain; to Modestina, Respicia, or Amiclea. The beautiful Palatine, who knew he could be enjoyed by none of them, gave himself to them all with so cheerful and free a behaviour, that each of them, thinking she had the pre-eminence in his affection, raised the Trophy of her Hopes to the Glory of possessing him. Each one presumed on her prerogatives, and put her pretensions in the first place.  
MODESTINA alleged that in all Justice IPHIGENES belonged to her; For, she was married to him, he was her Husband. RESPICIA founded her plea upon her high Birth and Riches. AMICLEA drew her pre-eminence from her Beauty. All three made their Buckler of the Word and Promise of the Palatine.  
For, he had said to his dear Modestina (whose disaster he did really lament) that he would never leave her as long as she would have him for her Husband: Whereupon she being resolved never to say otherwise, held her victory infallible. Respicia, (supported by the Paternal authority of Mieslas and the acknowledgement Iphigenes had made that he never gave his consent to the Marriage of Modestina) esteemed her Conquest no less certain. And Amiclea recollecting in her Memory the many Caresses, enamoured expressions, and several demonstrations of affection, wherewith Iphigenes had fed her Fancy in Minsce, (besides the immortal obligations she had acquired upon that generous Spirit, by her sallying out of the City in her Brother's  and Armour to secure him; And then consulting often with her Looking glass to remark the great advantages Nature had given her over her two Rivals) could not persuade herself if the fair Palatine had any Love, that it could be for any but her.  
Imagine you if the Queen and the Infanta laughed not at these vanities; and if they had not occasion to say that there was a great Process for a barren ground. All stood in expectation of the voice of the Oracle, which was the sentence of the Archbishop, who being informed by the King of the reality of the Story, and rendered participant of the Stratagem, after some usual formalities, pronounced the Marriage betwixt Modestina and Iphigenes void, by default of Consentment given in an age incapable of determining Wills.  
It would be hard to represent the resentments of the poor Modestina, when she heard this Sentence, which seemed no less cruel to her than if it had condemned her to Death; Nevertheless she held yet by one thread of Hope, the word of Iphigenes. In this World the one's loss is another's gain. This Decree opened the Heavens to Respicia, and made her sing the Triumph before a perfect Victory. For this Marriage being dissolved, she believed there would be no further obstacle to her pretensions; when Amiclea opposing herself to Her Designs, summoned Iphigenes to perform his promise to Her.  
It were impossible to relate the Discourses that Jealousy (which is an enraged Fury) put into the mouths of these Rivals, Which had made divers Quarrels and Combats, but that the King by his Prudence knew how to calm those storms. Modestina endeavoured to excite her Brother to fight with Iphigenes: (Consider you to whom she addressed herself, and what pleasure the King took to hear her persuasions, which Liante repeated to him.) Respicia pressed her Son, the Prince Cassin, to challenge Olavius or Polemander, to revenge her of Amiclea. Oloria conjured Polemander to engage in single Combat with Liante. And Amiclea was so transported with rage, that she was almost resolved to re-arm herself to take Prince Cassin's Life in revenge of Respicia's opposing her desires. At last being not able to engage any others in their quarrels, Passion so bemadded them, that (had they not been hindered) they would have ended their differences with Poniard and Pistol (wherewith they had each armed themselves) unfit instruments for the use of such delicate Hands.  
In what contentment did His majesty's fancy swim, seeing the Cards thus shuffled to his own desire? At length being willing to terminate all these differences (whereof he reserved the knowledge to himself) in as gracious as marvellous a manner, he promised to content them all by his Judgement without commanding (like the Hebrew King) that Iphigenes, should be divided. Hereupon He prefixed a certain day to pronounce the decision of this controversy, which (according to the opinion of the Pretendants) for one Happy was to make two Miserable.  
The whole Design being conducted with an admirable secrecy, the Queen and the Infanta Florimunda accompanied with only four, or five of the principal Ladies of the Court, seated themselves in the King's Chamber by his command. Then were called in the most part of those, whom we have named in this History, and those who had most frequently been in Iphigenes company, (for he suggested to the King the contrivance of all this Design) Especially the three Rivals, Modestina, Respicia and Amiclea; the Palatine's three Principal friends, Pomeran, Pifides and Argal; The Palatines of Minsce and Troc with their Wives; Oloria followed her Mother, and Melindra here's; Polemander accompanied his Sisters; Perpetua was introduced as Governess to Modestina; Aretuza entered with Mieslas, as those who next to their Son and Ward had the principal interest in this business. Of Boleslaüs being there, you need not doubt; the Prince Cassin accompanied his Mother, and Clemencia attended on the Queen.  
The Archbishop being instructed what he was to do, was admitted, as he that should give a blessing to the Feast, with other Prelates and ecclesiastics of note, who knew nothing of the Design. Mean time the King had commanded that Virgenia, (natural Daughter to Mieslas) should be conducted into his Closet, dresst like a Bride, and as if she had been then to be contracted to Liante, who with Iphigenes, sumptuously apparelled, was brought into the same closet; where, in Coffers (whereof Iphigenes had the Keys) were Garments necessary for the representation of the Comical Action we are now relating.  
The King having left them in his closet, returned into his Chamber, where during that grand Assembly, having briefly, but with much gravity represented, That God having created Man free, there was nothing that he abhorred more than to see Wills constrained; That being by the Providence of Heaven elevated to the Throne, to represent on Earth the Image of God in Heaven, he would never endure that the person whom he honoured with his Favour should be forced in his inclinations, especially in that which of all things in the World ought to be most free, that is, Marriage. That he had underhand intimated to the three Contendants a secret Cause which ought without further dispute make them quit their pretensions; But that their Passion being stronger than their Reason, they flattered themselves with a Belief, that his Information was, only an artificial Pretence to make them desist from an Enterprise, wherein they could reap nothing but Shame. That by the mouth of the Church, Iphigenes having been declared free from his first Bonds, his Will was that he should not be fettered a second time contrary to his own desire. That it was sufficient, that against the Motions of his own Mind he had already once testified his Obedience to his Parents by tying himself to Modestina, without submitting again his Will to theirs for an Alliance disproportionable; That the Age of the Princess Respicia did oblige him rather to reverence her as a Mother, than cherish and research her as a Wife; That her Daughter Simphoroza was yet too young for an Husband; That Amiclea might be dispensed from Marriage for the same Reason, besides that the promise of a Prisoner is never held to proceed from any other motion than Compulsion. And in sum, as well against that, as the paternal authority of Mieslas, he opposed his Royal and Sovereign Power, to remit purely and freely Iphigenes in the Liberty of his own Choice. That he had sounded his Intentions, and being fully informed thereof by his ingenious Confession, he had besides alleged very pertinent Reasons, that hindered him from Marrying any of those three that desired him. Which made him engage his thoughts elsewhere, and contract a Marriage in private (which was then to be made evident and confirmed by the Church) with a simple Shepherdess named Almeria, whom he found according to his own Heart, and who possessed as much ingenuity, Virtues and Graces as she had little Beauty. That he had made him see so clear into the Purity, Innocency and Sincerity of that Affection, that in stead of blaming him for having abased his Spirit to a Subject so inferior to his Birth and Condition, he esteemed him the more, judging how faithful would he be to his King who had so religiously preserved his Faith to so mean a Creature. That for these considerations imposing Silence to his Father and Mother, and rejecting the Pretensions of the three Rivals, his Will and Pleasure was, by virtue of his full and absolute Power, and of his Royal Authority, that that Marriage should be celebrated by the Archbishop, who had disannulled the former, and that immediately in the presence of all that Company, the Rustic Almeria having been brought secretly into the Palace for that purpose by his Command.  
These last words pronounced with a serious and Majestic accent, stopped the mouth (not without an extreme impatience) of the irritated Mieslas, who intended to do no less than kill Almeria with his own hands, or make her be poisoned within few days after her Marriage. What discourses in the Thoughts, what Thoughts ran through the Minds of the three Rivals, what pain had they to hold their peaces in so fair and so pressing an occasion to speak! One only thing gave them the respite that Heart-breaking Grief denied them, which was, that this ceremony was only to contract Iphigenes to Almeria, the Marriage being remitted to a more pompous solemnity; insomuch that they promised themselves, during that interval, to use new endeavours to break that alliance, and procure the accomplishment of their own pretensions; For, if betwixt the Mouth, and the Glass arrive divers accidents, several means might be found in that interim to divert that blow which was so fatal to their Hopes: Besides, not daring to oppose the King's Will in his own presence, every one remained in silence, when the King turning himself towards the Archbishop, asked him if he was not ready to receive the Promises of the future Marriage of the Palatine of Plocens with the Shepherdess Almeria?  
Whereunto the Prelate made answer, that he saw nothing to hinder him from obeying so Just a Command, in regard Kings may dispossess their Subject's Parents of the Power which they have in such cases over their Children, and dispense these of the Obedience which they own to them; the Regal Authority, as a grand Sphere, embracing the Paternal under it; For, Kings are above the Laws; and Favourites sometimes above the Kings. This Conceit made the King laugh.  
Then the betrothed Pair being demanded, the Commission of bringing them in was given to Boleslaüs, who being the main Engine in this stratagem, whilst the King was making his Speech, had made Virgenia retire herself into a Gallery near the Closet, whilst he dressed Liante in a Woman's Habit, plain and modest, but decent and honourable enough; then having ordered his Hair, and rendered his Complexion more tawny by the application of some of that liquor mentioned in our Rural recreations, no body could discern him to be other in that equipage than the same Almeria, whom Pisides, Argal and Pomeran had seen in the enchanted Forest of Plocens.  
The hour was purposely appointed in the Evening, and the King's chamber disposed in such sort that all the light that appeared, was directly in the Eyes of the Assembly; those that were to, be contracted remaining on the darker side. When they saw Iphigenes come in, embellished with all the advantages of rich Ornaments, leading the comely Almeria by the hand, the difference of their Complexions made every one compare them in his imagination to a black Pigeon paired with a white. What other thoughts passed through the several fancies of the Spectators, your Conceptions must supply the defect of my Expressions.  
The Queen and the Infanta Florimunda cherished an Opinion, that he had purposely made choice of that Creature to cover his imperfection, having to that end implored the assistance and goodness of His Majesty. The three Rivals, who knew themselves Greater and more Beautiful many degrees, believed that their Splendour would easily dissipate the Clowdiness of that obscure and homely Mistress. Mieslas was enraged that he durst not speak. Aretuza was ready to die with apprehension, seeing the moment approach that would discover her deceit. Only the Archbishop saw clear through all these shades, the rest (ravished with astonishment) held all their Thoughts suspended, and their Eyes fixed, sometimes upon the incomparable Beauties of Iphigenes, sometimes contemplating the Countenance of Almeria; in whose Gesture and Grace they could read nothing of Rustic.  
Being placed at the best advantage for their Design, Iphigenes having premeditated his Speech, said; That preferring his Faith above all the Honours and Wealth in the World, he was come thither (under His majesty's Favour) to testify, in the Face of the whole Court, that which he had given to the virtuous Almeria in the obscurity of the Plocensian woods; and show her, as she had been his only consolation during his disgrace, that he would make her partaker of the Favours, wherewith His Majesty was pleased to honour him. That he was not ignorant of the several censures the World would make upon his Choice, saying that for a Man whom Fortune, by the Favour of a great Monarch, had raised to such eminent Dignities, he was unworthy of that happiness, suffering his thoughts to crawl after a subject so disproportionable to his quality. But he was able to justify his action by examples, as well sacred as profane, of the greatest Kings and Princes of the Earth, who had not disdained to make slaves their Wives; he was not however so much invited by their imitation as his own inclination; Affection proceeding from Election, not those other considerations which Humane Prudence dictate's to those who prefer its Maxims above their own contentment. That the Repose of the Mind (wherein consisted the greatest felicity on Earth) was not an Effect of the multitude of Riches or Honours, (since to the contrary they begat Inquietudes and Trouble) but of the satisfaction which every one draw's from himself by setting limits to his Desires and Fortunes. That the King, his Master, had already made him too great, since he was elevated by his Favour to Dignities beyond the aim of his most aspiring wishes; That (being supported by so high a protection) he might have pretended to a more advantageous Party, but seeing himself raised to an eminent Condition, which permitted him not to content himself with an ordinary Match, He had made choice of a Wife, whose quality was extraordinary mean, according to the Judgement of Men, but whose Virtues and rare Perfections had won his Heart, and rendered him entirely here's. That in time he would make appear that Almeria's extraction was not inferior to Modestina's, to whom he did no injury, since the Justice and Judgement of the Church had declared their Marriage void. That he had divers other Reasons to oppose against the Pretensions of Respicia and Amiclea, but for Modestie's sake he should forbear to publish them, being contented to submit himself to his majesty's Will, under whose favour he humbly beseeched the Lord Arch bishop to receive the Faith which he would plight to Almeria Who taking her turn and counterfeiting her Gesture and Voice, lest she should be known to be Liante, said in few words; That her ambition had never aspired to so much Glory as to appertain to Iphigenes; but the Providence of Heaven having looked upon her Humility, she gently condescended to its Ordinance; And, besides the servitude and subjection which were due to His majesty's commands, that the Charity she owed to herself Commanded her not to reject so good a Fortune, whereof however she esteemed herself unworthy.  
Then the King calling Pisides, Argal and Pomeran (being already informed of their disguisements in the Forest) asked them if they knew not that Shpepherdess to be the same Almeria, in whom they had remarked so many Virtues, and such Dexterity in the exercises of hunting and Arms in the Forest of Plocens; which verity they unanimously confirmed; For, they really believed it to be so, in regard they having discovered only the deceit of Serife (as hath been already said) the condition of Almeria was yet unknown to them.  
Upon this acknowledgement the King uttered many favourable expressions in praise of that Gentile Amazon giving covertly to understand That Modestina was neither richer nor of a better Family than She, and that Time (which brings the secretest things to light) having made her known to the World, divers astonishments would be either redoubled, or cease. That they would be redoubled by seeing the proofs of her extraordinary valour, or would cease when they should find that Iphigenes could not make a better choice, what merits soever those other pretenders conceived they possessed more than Almeria. These words were Riddles to the Hearers but you shall shortly understand the explication of these Oracles.  
The King having left speaking, every one remained without replying any thing; and in this silence the words usual at the solemnities of Contracts being interchanged by the Parties, the Archbishop con●●●ned them by his Benediction. That done, Iphigenes prostrating himself before the King, said, That among so many favours wherewith His Majesty had gratified him, he accounted that in the first rank, in regard without it all the rest would have been less sensible to him there being nothing in the World that satisfie's a Lover so much as to see himself in the possession of that which he loveth.  
Almeria kneeling afterwards, and kissing the King's hand, said three or four words of like Compliment, with such a grace, that the Queen was constrained to say, that Shepherdess had been bred in some other place than the Woods, and that she saw nothing of Rustic in Her.  
Thereupon they retired themselves, and the King having commanded that Liante and Iphigenia should be brought forth to be contracted likewise, Mieslas starting up said to the King; SIR, I hope I shall have more contentment by this second alliance than the former: to whom the King suddenly replied, when you shall know what I have to tell you, I am confident the one will be as agreeable to you as the other.  
Heavens grant it, answered Mieslas, but my advancing was to advertise your Majesty that the Daughter which I give Liante is named Virgenia, and not Iphigenia, only by abuse some call her so, because of her resemblance to her Brother.  
We will call her then Virgenia, (replied the King) because she is a Virgin, and Iphigenia also, because she is more like her Brother than two drops of water are like each other.  
The King said this to amuse them, and give Iphigenes time to put on his Woman's habit, and Liante to re-take his own  with his former complexion. Mean time he gave order to Boleslaüs that they should not come forth of his Closet, until he gave the command to call them: Then having taken aside the Queen, the Infanta, and the three disgraced Graces, he began to tell them, as a secret, of the impotency of Iphigenes, who had not taken that Nymph, but to cover his imperfection from the Eyes of the World. Thereupon having given them leave to reply, the Queen and the Infanta, being forbidden by Modesty to speak in a business wherein they had so little interest, confined their thoughts to silence, leaving the field open to the three passionate Pretenders.  
MODESTINA, who was the most interessed, as having her Husband torn out of her embraces, replied, That to give her the liberty of Speech after so solemn a Contracting, was to bring a Physician after Death; besides that the absolute Will of His Majesty was an inviolable Law to her, which must be obeyed without murmuring; Yet if she might be lest to her own free disposition, she would content herself to spin out the rest of her days with Iphigtnes without experimenting him for an Husband any otherwise than she had thitherto; accusing him of little Friendship in that he had not discovered that defect to her, which she should have hidden as well as that Country-wench: So Jealousy made her term Almeria.  
The Princess RESPICIA, who persuaded herself it was a false report, protested that it was the Virtues of Iphigenes which made her desire him, not his Beauties, nor the consideration of pleasure; (judge you how her Tongue corresponded with her Heart) and that notwithstanding his Infirmity, she would have Married him, having already Children enough to preserve her Name and Memory.  
AMICLEA, who had abated somewhat of her ardour, would not however seem less affectionate than the rest, and following their tract, her Ditty was to the same Tune. The King hereupon told them that Marriages contracted with such persons were invalide. Then, replied MODESTINA, that which is now in agitation will be of no force. There are some private Reasons (answered the King) which will make it authentic. Kings, said RESPICIA, have always some reasons of State which pass all Ordinary Rules; they can do, undo, do again; they play with their Subjects as if they were Tennis-balls.  
The King smiling at this freedom of here's, replied; Princess, when the Scales are fallen from your Eyes, adn the Veil of Passion taken from before your Reason, I assure myself that you will rather pity than envy Iphigenes. Your favours, answered the Princess, will render him always more worthy of Envy than Pity. Upon these words Boleslaüs returning into the King's Chamber gave him notice by a private sign, that all was ready.  
Whereupon he presently commanded him to call Liante and IPHIGENIA to be contracted by the Arch bishop: The Ceremony being passed without any contradiction, the two Lovers standing hand in hand, Liante accompanied his costly apparel with so gallant a Garb, that he seemed quite another Creature than Almeria; and those precious Raiments wherewith Iphigenia had splendidly adorned herself, added such juster to her natural Beauty (augmented by the vermilion of shame which overspread her Cheeks) and her attire had such conformity with that which Virgenia wore, when she was brought into the Palace, together with the favour of the Time, Place, and Shadiness of the Chamber, that no body could know her on the sudden for Iphigenes; there was not one but had his Eyes dazzled at the splendour of so rare a Beauty, and not one Soul in the whole Company so Envious, as not to confess, seeing those two Lovers that they were, as the happiest, so the handsomest Couple in the World.  
Mieslas was the first cozened; Insomuch that he cried out aloud, he did not think he had been Father of so beautiful a Daughter. What think you, Madam, said the King turning to the Queen, were it not an impiety for a Father to disown so admirable a Daughter? She seems to me an Angel rather (answered the Queen) and that she hath more reason to acknowledge the Heaven for her Father than Mieslas. Indeed, said Florimunda, it were great Pity that such a Jewel should be hidden; hence-forwards this Lady will be one of the richest Ornaments of the Court. That's evident (replied the King) and Liante shall do well to be careful of her, for if so many Ladies were enamoured of her Brother, her penetrating glances will engender no less flames in divers Courtier's Hearts.  
The Royal Chamber seemed at that time like a Serene Heaven, wherein their Majesties were the greater Lights; the others the meaner Planets, as the Infanta Florimunda, Modestina, the Princess Respicia, Amiclea, Melindra, and poor Oloria quite Eclipsed. But what Rank can we give to the fair IPHIGENIA, unless it be that of the Planet that bear's the Name of the Goddess which causeth Love?  
When Oloria saw that glorious Star, she would have hidden herself from her own Eyes. The changing of her Colour shown sufficiently the distemper of her thoughts, but all the Assembly was so attentive in contemplating the incomparable IPHIGENIA, that no body took notice of her alterations. She confessed herself vanquished by that eminent Beauty; therein she read the cause of Liante's scorns, whom in her Heart she called Traitor, for having spoken of Affection to her being prepossessed with that Object; She had nothing left to support her senses in that Despair, but this sorry consolation, that her Sister Was as much excalled in Beauty, as She surpassed her in handsomeness. At length she excused her unfaithful Lover, as having made a choice so worthy of his Judgement, that she herself was constained to approve it.  
The Queen having for some time held her Eyes attentively fixed on IPHIGENIA'S Face, turned to Florimunda, saying, Sister, by the Life of the King, my Lord, I do not think it is possible to find through the whole World two Faces more like than those of the Brother and the Sister; There is but one Letter's difference in their Names, but in their Faces I find not the least tittle of exception; and if Iphigenes were in Woman's , I believe we should hardly be able to distinguish them.  
Iphigenes hearing this Discourse, notwithstanding the gravity and modest bashfulness, wherewith he had studiously composed his Countenance, could not refrain smiling, but with so pleasing a grace, as obliged the Infanta to reply; Madam, There is no difference but in their action; For Iphigenes hath I know not what of Marshal in his Face, but this Lady hath a certain sofclier look so full of attraction, that her sweetness charms me.  
What Philosophical severity would not have changed countenance at these Speeches? The King had all the pain imaginable to contain himself, seeing so universal an Error. Then, the Infanta speaking again to the Queen, said, Madam, does not your Majesty perceive that this Nymph Almeris, whom Iphigenes hath chosen for his Wife, excepting her complexion (which is somewhat tawny by being much exposed to the Sun) hath some resemblance to Liante? I did think so (replied the Queen) but not to interrupt the King who was speaking, I forbore declaring of my sense.  
The King who made a show of not hearing this Discourse, knew that artificial things (like Paint) are but of little durance; and if he should differ the discovery of that Secret much longer, he should lose the pleasure of his Stratagem. For, he overheard already the Palatine's three friends, Pomeran, Pisides and Argal saying to each other, Would not you say that were Serife? I must confess I never saw any Sister so perfectly a Brother.  
Clemencia hearing the high praises every Spectator gave to the perfections of her Natural Sister, would willingly have quitted the quality of Legitimate to have possessed so eminent a Beauty: and a secret worm of Envy gnawing her Heart, made her conceit that the extolling of Iphigenia's graces was the eclypsing of here's. The Prince Cassin, who could have wished to himself as many Eyes, as the Poets gave Argus, the better to contemplate IPHIGENIA, could not forbear, saying, that Liante was the happiest of Men. As many Heads as many Opinions, as many Mouths as many Censures. Only poor Aretuza dreading the success of this adventure, was like one that holds the Porringer whilst the Surgeon is opening his Vein; the Cruelty of Mieslas swum in her Fancy, his inhuman humour dazzled her Eyes with terror; and although she was in the King's Court (a sacred and inviolable Sanctuary) and under his protection; yet she trembled like a Pigeon that see's a Gerfaulcon near him.  
LIANTE and IPHIGENIA being contracted, the King promised Mieslas to pay his Daughter's Dowry, and gratify Liante with such pensions and Honours, as he should not grudge to leave him the use of his Estate during Life, ordaining that the first Male-Child that should proceed of that Marriage should bear the Name and Arms of the house of Mieslas, and the rest Liante's.  
All the Ceremony being passed, the Queen and Florimunda, according to the ordinary curiosity of great Ladies, would have had Iphigenia come near them, that they might examine her Beauties, and make trial of her Wit. But the King who knew that Gold would not endure the Touch, commanded Boleslaüs to re-conduct the new Contracted Couple into his Closet, until he should give order for their coming forth together with the former, like the four wheels of a Triumphant Chariot.  
Which done, beating the Iron while it was hot, and not to give leisure to the assistants of discoursing and communicating their Opinions, having prepared their attentions by promising to tell them one of the strangest Evenements any Age had produced upon the Theatre of the World, he related summarily the History of the Birth, Education and Fortune of Iphigenes, with the principal Passages already declared in this Narration. And then turning to Mieslas, Behold (said he) Seigneur Palatine the memorable marvel your Rigour hath produced; are not you happy to have brought into the World a Daughter that surpasseth so many Men in Valour and Generosity, and so many Women in Beauty? And let me tell you, if for preserving this Miracle of Nature, you should conceive any displeasure against your Wife, who hath showed herself so discreet and virtuous, and endured your insupportable humours with such patience, you would be the most unworthy Father and Husband that ever the Sun beheld; Neither must you think ever to appear in my presence, or stay within my Dominion, if you should dare to attempt any thing against the Mother or Daughter, whom I take into my safeguard and especial Protection. See how the Heavens overcoming your Malice by singular Mercies, have rendered you more happy than you, imagined; upon whose gracious Obligations prepare henceforwards a due Repentance and Acknowledgement of their Goodness. And you, discreet Aretuza (who have had this laudable industry to elevate your Child with so much Virtue and Prudence, by the care of this aged Man, whom you made her Governor) rest contented and without Fear: For, besides the security you may expect from me for your own Person, know that I will raise your Son-in-law LIANTE and your Daughter IPHIGENIA to such a degree of Fortune, as many Mothers would desire none but Daughters upon the same condition. Neither shall this Happiness terminate in them alone; our Intention and Will is, that all those who have contributed any thing to her preservation, shall be participant of her preferment. And you, Fair Ladies (said he to the three Pretendants) who have so honourably loved the beautiful Palatine, change your fruitless Love into a just Friendship, which will be more advantageous; cease to afflict your Souls with sighing after a vain and sterile Passion, and reserve yourselves for the joyful solemnity of Her Nuptials, who honours you as she ought. These two alliances which you have seen contracted are but one; only the habits being changed made LIANTE Almeria, and an IPHIGENIA of Iphigenes. Whereof you may be more fully satisfied, if you take the pains to go into my Closet, or desire to see them again here. I prepared all things in this manner purposely to increase your astonishments, and make you know that the Heavens work miracles on Earth, and before our Eyes.  
This Discourse of His Majesty bred such an amazement in the Spirits of all the assistants, that Admiration transported them beyond themselves. But the most transported of all was Mieslas, not with Choler but Joy, and his Heart (before more rigid than the senseless Rocks) being mollified with these words, discharged its Rancour in a shower of Tears: He cast himself at his majesty's knees, and embracing them could not thank sufficiently the goodness of that great Prince: He did not pardon his Wife, but asked her pardon. It was a pleasure to see that Father and Mother weep for Joy, and all the rest with Tenderness, Astonishment and Pity.  
He that could relate the divers Resentments of so many persons as had part in that Commune rejoicing, were no bad Orator; yet it is better concealing than expressing them, since Silence is an effect of Admiration.  
The Queen's and Infanta's impatience made them advance into the Closet, where they found IPHIGENIA in the disposition of a Criminal, that expects when the Judge will pronounce the sentence of his Condemnation. Liante possessed with a joy beyond belief, felt his Heart dance with excess of Contentment. Poor Virgenia (who had waited in the Gallery all ready, like one that were to be Married) was found with her Governess ignorant of all this, and with a conceit that the Company was then coming to assist at the Ceremony. In sum, the Truth was discovered, the Mask laid aside, and every one spoke according to his own Sense. Only the three Rivals (happy, in their unhappiness, by their own Cures) became the Subject of Laughter and Divertisement to the Gallants of the Court.  
The King, to enrich this Evenement, and render it yet more illustrious, gave order to honour the Marriage (which was solemnly to be celebrated) with such Pomp, Tilt, Masks, Banquets, and other Magnificences, that he seemed (like another Assuerus) to desire to show upon this occasion the greatness of his Glory, and the splendour of his Royal Liberty.  
The beautiful Iphigenes who had been the Subject of Sighs to so many Ladies, became the Object of Admiration to the Men, when he was become Iphigenia; and although Liante alone had the privilege of possessing her, she could not hinder others from Loving and Honouring. Whilst these splendide preparatives were making for the Wedding, Iphigenia (who was more in credit than ever with the King) contrived divers other Alliances. That of the Prince Cassin with her Sister Clemencia was concluded. Pisides, whilst he was an Hostage for Iphigenes in the Castle of Minsce, became a Prisoner to Amiclea, but durst not disclose his Passion, for fear of being accused of Presumption, and paid with a shameful Repulse; Besides incurring the displeasure of Iphigenes; But the shades being dissipated, he declared himself to Iphigenia, who procured him Amiclea to Wife. Argal was contented with Oloria; and Pomeran, whom Iphigenia cherished particularly, received Modestina for his M●stress. Polemander chose Eleonora, Iphigenia's Ward and Daughter to Stanislas. Only Respicia remained in her Widowhood, and her Daughter Simforoza in the expectation of some great match, when her Age should render her Marriageable.  
All Parties were content. Oh Hymen! what Cures after so many wounds, what Joy to all these persons tossed with so many Storms, to see themselves so suddenly arrived at the Port, and set on shore with as much Happiness as safety. Virgenia likewise was not ill provided; For, by Iphigenia's means, (to whom every one was desirous to be allied, being the chief person in His Majesty's Favour) Her Husband was a Castellain of Lithuania, near Kinsman to the Palatine of Troc, named Aradius, who was one of the gentilest and most accomplished Gentlemen about the Court. These were the fruits of the Peace and Reconciliation of POLONIA and LITHUANIA.  
The Solemnity of this Marriage being passed, Iphigenia desired His Majesty to honour the rest likewise with his presence. Which shortly after were solemnised accordingly, with such a train of Feasts and public Expressions of Joy, that Cracovia seemed to be the only Theatre of Pleasure. Peace having thus restored to Polonia that abundance and felicity which commonly doth attend it, you would have said that the Golden Age had been come to sojourn with that of Iron.  
Our incomparable Amazon guiding the Bark of her Fortune in this full Sea of Favour with such Dexterity, that she seemed to have Married Good-luck with Desert, never ceased until she had placed her Dear Liante in the same Degree of Favour with the King as she possessed; and the King discerning so many Dispositions in that Gentleman worthy of his Benevolence, loved him first for Iphigenia's sake, but afterwards for his own Merits. It is no small advantage for a diseased Person to have some one to help him into the Bath. Divers very deserving Men remain in Obscurity for want of some to expose them to the Light, and make them known to those, who like Gods on Earth do spin the Thread of meaner mole's Destinies.  
Liante's access being thus facilitated, he was forthwith installed Palatine of Plocent; not long after he became Lord Chamberlain, than Lord High-Steward of the King's Family, and so increased daily in Dignities proportionably as he advanced in Favour.  
Iphigenia being contented to see him well anchored about the King, studied nothing so much as to ingratiate herself with the Queen, which Design (by a great Assiduity about Her majesty's Person, and with Submissions and Respects, that would have enchanted Marble) she suddenly accomplished. For, the Queen who was no ill-willer of here's, whilst she thought her a Man, finding her of her own Sex redoubled her Affection; and the Infanta Florimunda did no less: Insomuch that those two Princesses in their Concord had only this Debate, and in their Discord they accorded in this point; Which should love her most.  
Florimunda who had every day full liberty to review that same Face, which she had so much esteemed in Iphigenes, and being ravished besides, with the sweetness of her Conversation, could not choose but love her with a Friendship beyond ordinary; And the other Ladies, who have been ashamed to discover their Passions whilst they esteemed her as she seemed, made no difficulty of declaring the violentest motions of their Hearts, when they saw her to be one of them.  
But whilst I stand to represent the happy Estate and Deportments of our Lovers, I forget to tell you how they acknowledged the Friendship of those, who attended them in their meaner Fortunes. Our Favourites (who advanced their Grandeurs by way far different from that of others, who scrape all they can to themselves) had nothing in greater re-commendation than to establish their own Fortunes by doing or procuring good to others; like the Sun, who casts his Rays outwards, and shine's not but by the comunication of his Light. No body could approach them without resenting the effects of their perfect Courtesy, no more than stand near a Fire without participating of its heat.  
As occasions served they failed not to represent unto His Mejesty the merits of their Friends: Mieslas was made Lord Chamberlain when Liante was raised to the charge of Lord High Steward, and that without Envy: For, being fully reconciled, and esteeming him as his Son by his Marriage with Iphigenia (after the manner of most Parents) he desired his advancement rather than his own.  
The Prince Cassin, who ambitioned a Government with impatience, obtained (at their request) of the King a promise of the first Palatinate that fell. All the rest were either made Lords Castellains in several places, or had considerable Offices given them about the King or Queen. Only Boleslaüs, in whom Ambition was quite extinct, desired to end his days with his dear Foster Child, who esteemed and honoured him as her Father.  
The POLONIANS have two powerful and very bad Neighbours, the MOSCOVIANS towards the Septentrion, and the Turk in the Oriental part: Against the inundations of these two Torrents they are forced to raise and repair their banks continually. The grand KNETZ, or Duke of Moscovia, hath always an Heart burning to see the Kings of Polonia extend their Dominions beyond the Boristhenes, having one foot in Russia: This displeasure incites him oftentimes (either out of Ambition, or to exercise his Soldiery) to make Incursions with his Army into that part called the POLONIAN RUSSIA.  
News being brought to the Court at Cracovia, that this Enemy was raising very considerable Forces to invade Polonia, it was resolved to prevent his Design, and oppose his fury by incountering him upon the Frontiers of his own Territories. The Lord High Marshal of Polonia was appointed General of the Army; and because he was very aged and sickly, the Lieutenant Generalship was given to Mieslas, with a promise of the first Office of Marshal that should be vacant. which his Daughter, to content his Ambition, procured him. The occasion seemed so fair that all the grand Gallants of the Court resolved to bear Arms in that Expedition.  
Liante, who burned with desire to show that by his Services he would endeavour to deserve those favours he daily received from His Majesty, would be of the number; and notwithstanding all the instances the King could make to retain him in Cracovia, he would not be induced to submit to that Obedience, which 〈◊〉 termed shameful and unworthy of a Man of Honour.  
Iphigenia (who during the Peace could not forget the exercises of Chivalry, and who had been one of the chief in all their Tilt) determined to accompany her Husband to the field, and bear Arms. Whatsoever the Queen, the Infanta and all the other Ladies could allege, it was impossible for them to extinguish in her that Martial humour, which she had so long practised. She was never so much esteemed as in this occurrence; Envy itself, which carry's the venom of Asps under its Tongue, could not forbear commending her; All said that with that living PALLADIUM they were assured of the Victory, and that no less than the Fortune of Cesar attended that invincible Amazon.  
The King himself could not sufficiently admire and applaud the Greatness and Gallantry of her Spirit, and had the infirmities of his Age per●●●●● him, he would gladly have been a Spectator of her br●●● Exploits. Lopez the famous Comical Poet of Spain, handsomely infers, that those who are descended of generous Parents cannot but be inclined to Heroic Actions; And in regard his Language is graver and more graceful than I am able to render it, for the satisfaction of the Lorers of that Tongue, I have here placed a Copy of his own Verses,  

Ni por el you'll el Elephante grave,  
Ni ●●as por el Agua el Foenix nuevo,  
Ni entierra el Pez ni por la mar el Ave,  
Ni menes en el air el Topociego,  
Ni en tierra seca el Ruysenor suave,  
Ni el Platano en la Arena, el Cisne en fuego,  
Ni el Hombre que es de Padres principales,  
Sin las hazanas a su nombre yguales.   

In Icy Climbs no Elephants do live,  
Nor Water a new Life to th' Phoenix give;  
Fish cannot dwell on th' Earth, nor Birds i'th' Deep,  
Much less the Mole in th' Airy Region creep;  
The barren Heaths sweet Nightingales disclaim,  
Plane-trees love not the Sands, nor Swans the Flame:  
Neither can Persons borne of Noble Sires  
Be void of Noble Hearts, and high Desires.   
To ask whether Liante and the rest of the Gentlemen, mentioned in this History, had honourable Commands in this Army, were a frivolous question: It is but considering what favour can do in like occasions. Polonia never saw a more complete Army, nor Gallanter men; They repulsed the Enemy (who exceeded them in number) so far into their own Country, that those that came to assault, were hardly able to defend themselves. Having taken and sicked divers places in Russia, and discomfited the Grand Knez Forces, they returned loaden with Laurels and rich Boety, with a General applanse and magnificent Triumph. But Fortune, who is never fully indulgent, mingled, according to her custom, some Gall amongst this Honey, which was by the death of Mieslas; who in routing the Enemies, engaged himself so far in the pursuit of the fugitives (whereof he had made an horrible slaughter) that at length Despair having rallied them, they gave him a fresh charge; and being but weakly attended, he was forced to resign his Life, and fall a Sacrifice to the irritated fury of the reassembled Enemy.  
Thus he buried himself in the Tomb of Honour, which he had always so much desired, like Samson who died in the midst of his Enemies, or him that was squeezed to Death under the Elephant which he had killed. If he had been less courageous, he had enjoyed more fruits of his Victory, and seen himself Lord High Marshal of Polonia; For, he who had commanded the Army in that expedition, ended there his days, not by the hand of his Enemies, but Sickness and Old Age. So that all the charge fell upon our two Favourites, who like CASTOR and POLLUX shared the honour with such equality, that both refusing it, both increased their praises.  
I am not able to make a relation suitable to the memorable testimonies of Valour, that day, rendered by our generous Amazon, and Liante fight before her; who vexing that a Woman should lead him the way to honourable Dangers, and teach him his Lesson in Marse's School, striving to surpass himself he shown by his blows (which never fell in vain) that be was Master of as an uncommon a Puissance, as incomparable Dexterity. Cassin, P●●●ander, Pisides, sides, Argal, Pomeran, and Aradius, signalised themselves by Acts of marvellous Prowess; and Boleslaüs, as old as he was, gave proofs of no less Courage in this warlike exploit, than Prudence in the more Peaceable transactions.  
Majestic were the Triumphs which the King made for his Favourites at their return to Cracovia, making them be proclaimed, the Preservers of their Country; and to crown this Victory with a worthy acknowledgement, every one that had rendered himself remarkable in that Action received a particular recompense from His Majesty. The Prince CASSIN was rewarded with the Palatinate of PLOCENS, Liante reserving to himself that of PODOLIA, where all his own Estate lay, and the memory of his own Father and Father-in-law were yet recent. The Office of Lord CHAMBERLAIN was conferred upon POMERAN, as well in consideration of his own virtue, as for MODESTINA'S sake whom he had Married. All the rest likewise tasted of his majesty's Favours, according to their Merits and Qualities: And Liante was confirmed in the Office of Lord High Marshal of POLONIA, to the Shame and Heart-breaking of his Enviers, the Joy of his Friends, the singular Contentment of IPHIGENIA, the Glory of the KING, and full Satisfaction of his own Desires. In honour of whose triumphant Memory and completed Happiness, a Poet of the times affixed these  

WISHES.  

IN Fine thus Fortune ceased to frown,  
And Passion's storms were overblown;  
Our matchless Lovers thus (made free  
From the foul breath of Calumny)  
Raised to the Top of their Desires,  
Quenched and revived each others Fires.   

Let then no Torments of the Mind  
Disturb their Calm; Let no unkind  
Aspect, with Grief or dismal War,  
Their fortunate Conjuncture mar;  
Supernal Powers, bless their repose,  
And ne'er let Thistles choke this Rose.   

Fly from their thoughts Chimeras vain  
Of Hatred and Umbragious pain,  
That their linked Souls may fully prove  
The sweets of Pleasure, Peace and Love;  
And after all their Tempests may  
Ride safe at Anchor in the Bay.   

These Surges being past and Minds appeased,  
I hope, like them, my Readers will be pleased.     
FINIS.