LICENCED,  
October 26. 1666. Roger L'Estrange.   

Fortune's Uncertainty, OR YOUTH'S UNCONSTANCY.  
Wherein is contained A true and impartial Account of what happened in the space of few Years to the Author, whom you will know in this ensuing Discourse by the name of RODOLPHUS.  
LONDON, Printed for Thomas Dring at the George near Cliffords-Inn in Fleetstreet. 1667.   

TO THE Reader.  
Courteous Reader,  
IF those hours I have lately spent in this little Volume, may purchase thy contented perusal, I shall not term them, as I once intended, Idle. I know it is hard to please all, especially some Carping Critics, that delight in nothing but censorious disreputes; it is not to those that I dedicate this, for I owe them no such service; but to thee that wilt encourage the first blossoms of my labours with thy favourable construction, do I present this, with a promise that a second part may follow, if I have cause to write myself thy debtor.  
Rodolphus.   

Fortune's Uncertainty, OR Youth's unconstancy.  
IN the year 1652. by the peculiar and tender care of a most loving and indulgent Father, 'twas thought convenient (Rodolphus' years then making him capable of Scholastic impressions) to place him abroad, not under an illiteral and raw-pated fellow, (of which sort the world is too too full) but by a most prudential and paternal care, he was sent to a grave and reverend old Gentleman, a Doctor of Divinity, whose life and learning speaks him sufficiently eminent: of this old Gentleman, I may say as Alexander once spoke of his Tutor Aristotle, that he owed more to him than to his natural Father; the one giving him a life only, the other learning and reason how to govern and preserve that life: the time was more, than in such like cases is usual, that he spent under the grave tuition of this discreet Schoolmaster: and these advantages for a generous improvement, was likewise very great, and (especially in those depraved times) hardly to be paralleled; for than was the time when Rebellion and Treason were counted Piety and Loyalty; then was the time when the glory of these three Nations lay buried and trampled underfoot; when the Nobility and Gentry were hunted by so many Wolves, and enforced to fly to Rocks and Mountains, to unfrequented places and dark Cells, for their securities; I say, in the midst of these horrible transactions, Rodolphus sound a privileged place for an advantageous education; a place which by its then calmness, peaceable, and loving neighbourhood, seemed to represent a felicity far above earthly enjoyments; or a pleasant spring, where for its tranquillity the innocent birds fly as to their sanctuary: such was the harmonious government and conduct of this wise Captain, that the flourishing youth more delighted in a submissive obedience under his commands, than the rebellious rout did in all their tyrannising cruelties: here was the Loadstone that drew so many lesser Luminaries to be its diligent attendants; nay I may boldly say, that England in those times could scarcely afford such a cluster of young Gentry as then lay at Anchor in that calm and smooth Harbour: 'tis a sufficient proof that the Pilot was rarely skilful, otherwise the loss of so many innocent Passengers had been inevitable, being forced to sail through so perilous an Ocean: but thanks be to the Gods for the safe arrival of these Passengers into their desired Port, and for our dearest Guidesman's safe arrival into his everlasting Port; the former attaining to theirs by our ever happy Kings return; the other at his by that signeo canteo, or sweet resignation of his life to a better place. But to proceed, Rodolphus had not been happy in the great enjoyment of this good society above a year or two, but the youthful exorbitances of himself, and two or three more among them, invited them to such extravagancies, that had not the seasonable persuasions of some of their Relations interposed, they had been made uncapable of conserving themselves as members of that Society, by the just resentments of their incensed Master; for the daily complaints of the Country people, some lamenting the loss of their Geese, others of their Turkeys and Hens, some of their fat Pigs, but most, of their Orchards being robbed, did so perplex that good old Gentleman, that when he perceived private chastisements (which they seldom wanted) would not prevail, he took a course less painful, but far more disgraceful to them; for in his very Sermons he would take the opportunities of public checks; nay, their crimes (and partly his age) would so highly provoke him, that he would often particularise their names in the open Congregation; which was so insufferable, that two or three among them, most guilty, could not endure to be thus galled, but in revenge must needs be gone, every one to their particular friends, with protestations never to return, pretending some great injury received: They had no sooner taken this resolution, but they as soon put it in execution, and without giving the least notice either to Master or Schoolfellows, they stole away to their several homes; and every one found alike entertainment, for as if their Relations had foreknown of their arrivals, and within themselves concluded of their reception, though they lived many miles asunder; yet thus went the humour, that no sooner came they home, but as soon were they sent back again, with their Parents servants with them, and Letters to the old Fox, who smilingly congratulated their return; but the next morning he taught them the difference between words and blows, & made every one of them know, that stolen Geese must have whipping Sauce: thus are they returned and reinstated in so good a condition, that others more wise would think it a happiness not to be paralleled; but the School and the Rod were always enemies to liberty and ease, and so thought they; yet necessity has no Law, for to their studies they must, and indeed they might acknowledge a thanks, rather than discontent, for such supposed severities: for should not youth be bridled from those unsatiable and boundless extravagancies they are usually guilty of, they might (Phaëton-like) with their unadvised ambitions, hurl themselves, and perhaps their relations, into many inconveniences, sooner to be sorrowed than quitted. History and experience daily tells us of many woeful examples that giddy-headed young men run themselves into: had Icarus been advised by the discreet foresight of his wise Father Dedalus, (who too truly feared the success of his ingenious Arts) perhaps to to this day we might have wanted a name for the Icarian Seas, or at least have found one less ominous: but what need I dilate on that which a whole Cartload of Books are full of, my intent is otherwise; therefore add rem. By the stayed and awful authority of Rodolphus respected Tutor, he kept within bounds for two or three years after this first lashing out, and indeed was never guilty of any notorious noncompliance (unless his selling some Books now and then, and losing his clothes at gaming, or the like) till from that Nursery he found a removal into a more spacious Plantation, where he had a larger liberty to exercise his youthful inclinations than was heretofore allowed him; for no sooner was he thought fit (perhaps more by favour than learning) for Oxford, but immediately with all possible care had he a Chamber, Tutor, and Servitor provided for him in that ancient and famous College of Christ-Church; where he had not long continued, till he quickly found the want of that true and Orthodox Principle he was all along brought up in: A fine moderate methodical way of teaching was used by his Reverend Master, with such a stayed gravity and piety, that his influence was very great upon the most stubborn Lad among them; but now the case is altered, Quot capita tot sententiae, and as Ovid saith in relation to the first Chaos, 'twas a rudis indigestaque moles, and so certainly did it appear here; for every body would be something, and yet no body was any thing, especially his little Tutor, who like a second Protaeus could ingeniously disguise himself into the most safe shape; sometimes one of goodwin's Disciples, than a Presbyterian Zealist; sometimes a Yea and Nay must be the burden of the Song; then were they all Hobby-horses without a second Dip: thus ran he his divisions, now a lesson in Philosophy, then in Divinity; sometimes in Metaphysics, then in Mathematics; sure I am he had as many tricks as a dancing Bear, but they had quickly trick for trick with him: for whilst he was beating his addle brains about new innovations, they were still inventing new recreations; so that Billiards, Tennis, Bowls, Cards, Dice, each were as well acquainted with them as all Fantastic Principles with him. Time runs apace, which makes Rodolphus quickly pass the months of a Freshman, and soon understand that more honour lay under a ragged Gown than a new one; he quickly learned how to take things upon faith, and for half the worth to sell them for ready money; he thought it a very good shift, for I am sure among their rattle-headed pates, they rattled all away from poor young Gentlemen, who had nothing to help them but their money, and a very little of that too; for Rodolphus could never learn the art of turning his eyes topsy turvy, nor their long yauning, nor false spittings, with their counterfeited smiles nor Crocodile tears; he could never do any thing of it, therefore must suffer for it: however in the midst of these extremities he had comfort in having some Companions in his miseries; for doubtless they had a knot that could be as merry as they, and perhaps as drunk too, but not altogether so private: they had not got the right way of the Presbyterian drinking, and I hope never will. Thus after this mazed rate rubbed he out, till the desires of some of his Relations incited him to manly improvements, which quickly took so good effect, that he soon became a good Proficient in the art of Fencing; which surly exercise inanimated him so much, that he began to think himself a man; and indeed his age being then between 15 and 16 enabled him to execute that which gained him some applause with his Military Master, and likewise so good a sort of acquaintance, that after a little time they dared so much confide in one another, that no secret or design whatever, but what was common among them. There were three besides Rodolphus, who were fully resolved to hazard their fortunes in a year or two's Travel, and notwithstanding two of them were elder Brothers, and now men of great Estates; yet their Credits were then so indifferent, that for the furtherance of this design they were not able to raise above thirty pounds, and that too by selling their Books, Bedding, and other Furniture of their Chambers. Rodolphu's own stock was but small, yet for the prosecution of such Heroic Intentions, his endeavours were very earnest; for what with his Bedding, Books, and Gown, and likewise his Credit, he made a shift to raise above twenty pounds: so that among them they had at least fifty pounds. This great sum, with the fear of a discovery made them almost mad; but to be quickly free from those doubts, they hired each of them a Hackney Horse, (but never intended the owners should see them again till their return:) being thus accoutred, and every thing secure, I know not what unhappy Planet discovered it, or what Argus' eyes discerned it; but certain I am, they were all discovered, and this hopeful design nipped in the very bud, and I fear me by the too too great industry of one of Rodolphus' Relations, who having no inconsiderable Authority in Oxford, and having had some hint in the business (would the tongue were out that told it) immediately took half a dozen of the Officers of the Town with him, and made a general search, but could hear nothing of them till eleven or twelve a clock at night, when they were all Booted and Spurred, just going to take Horse, the Officers met our young Scholars full butt in the Streets, who immediately bid them stand, and they as immediately bid them follow them, for they all took heels and run for't, their Consciences frighting them more than their Followers; but Boots and Spurs, and other lumber about them, prevented their desires, and slackened that expedition which they highly wanted in such a case; so that they became preys to their enemies, but on very honourable terms; for when our young Scholars saw themselves in the net, they were resolved to run out of it, or break it, which made them draw, with a resolution far exceeding their years, or cause, and commanded their pursuers at their perils to stand, which was obeyed, and a parley proposed; which being accepted, they made their conditions according to their desires, only were forced to lay down their Weapons & retake themselves again to their Gowns, but with a solemn engagement, that their Parents should not be acquainted with this extravagancy, but should return Statu quo prius. This being granted, they returned their moneys to redeem their Beds, and satisfy other Creditors, which grieved them most of all; for certainly so great a sum of Money was never seen among them: but according to promise all was hushed, and no notice taken of this frolic for a great while; but at last some malicious tongues began to whisper so loud, that all the Town rang of it, so that Prayers and thanks were offered up by many of their poor Creditors for this fair deliverance, and the owners of the Horses could not be backward in acknowledging their escape. Whether this were politicly divulged by any of their Relations, that others should not trust them any more, I will not now question; but this I am sure of, that their credits were grown so small upon it, that they could keep open Shop no longer, but were forced to part, some one way and some another, till a more favourable day might bring them together again; which came to pass according to their wishes, as in the process of this discourse you shall understand. In the midst of these transactions, and some other little frolicks which are too inconsiderable to particularise, the Saintlike Tutor of our young Rodolphus began to be troublesome, and thunder out his furious threats, which amounted to little less than excommunications; for he solemnly protested the very next extravagancy committed by our late criminal should be punished by no less a chastisement then an expelling; notwithstanding all this Rodolphus was not yet satisfied, nor dreaded these severe pronunciations so much, but that he must have another fling; and a little while after a convenient opportunity presented itself; for the great fame of the Funeral solemnisation of the late Usurper began to grow so eminent, that he was no Gentleman that would not see such a Ceremony: Our young Gallant was spurred on to this enterprise with earnestness, for he never saw the famous City of London till then; his desires therefore not to be satisfied, but by an accomplishment, made him the more diligent in the prosecution thereof: but what inconveniences and shifts must he still run into that has neither Money nor Credit to assist his designs? This certainly would discourage any but our Author, who was resolved by hook or by crook for London: There were in the College two or three of his associates well principled young men, who had the same desires; but that which was most to be lamented, the same purses and credits likewise as himself; but Labour omnia vincit improbus, for the perpetual industry of our young Gentlemen amounted to so good an effect, that against the time Rodolphus had gotten not only two good Hackney-Horses for himself and Servitor, but likewise a very rich embroiodred Coat, with Boots, Sword, and Belt, which the credulity of one of his Brother's Servants entrusted him with; his Companions were likewise successful in every thing but Monies, for there was not twenty shillings among four of them and their Servants, at their leaving of Oxford; but gone they are, Friends nor Tutors know not whither; they feared their flight to be beyond the Seas, and too late shut the Stable door; but they were all mistaken, for London was the farthest place for their designed Travels. They were forced to lie one night upon the Road, which made such a deep impression into their little stock, that after their Reckoning paid, they had but two shillings left to carry them to London, & in what part to go to in that huge place they could not imagine; for to be near the Temple they dared not, some of their Relations being there resident; to be near the Court they likewise were afraid, having several of their Kindred interessed too too much in that rebellious Compliance. This consideration put our young Travellers into a great nonplus; but after a serious consultation it was proposed by one of them, that Tuttle-street would be most convenient to receive them, by reason that his Tailor dwelled there, who would be very necessary among them, being all strangers in London: This proposition was generally liked of, which made them steer their course directly thither, where in few hours after they safely arrived, and at the two necked Swan took up their quarters, but could hear no news of the Tailor: they had no Money left, but spared not calling plentifully, their Horses being good pledges for an honest payment. Well you see we have brought these young Scholars to London, where for a while we will leave them, and look back a little from whence they came, and how all things go there: Our young gentlemen's Tutors quickly found that the Birds were flown, and as quickly gave the Alarm to Rodolphus' Relations, who lived not far from Oxford; they all proclaimed him the ringleader of these Contrivances, and made him the chiefest criminal, when indeed they were all equals: they were so surprised at the suddenness of their flight, that had not the Credit of Rodolphus his Relations prevented it, they had sent Hues and Cries after them and their Horses; but they looked before they leapt, and wisely considered that a better plaster could not be applied to this wound, than a discreet concealment; which being agreed amongst them, they patiently waited the event, and daily put up their Orisons for a speedy return of their supposed lost Pupils: but whilst the careful Tutors live in suspense at Oxford, their jolly Pupils merrily divert themselves at London; but their guilty fears often caused their jealous discontents, and put them into many dangerous frights; amongst the rest this is worthy the taking notice of: One day they must needs walk down to the Waterside, and being come near the Thames in Westminster-Yard, the Watermen (as they thought) came strangely up towards them, crying, Sculler or Oars, Sculler or Oars? which confused noise our young Gentlemen not being acquainted with, verily believed them to be men set there on purpose to apprehend them, and really thought they had cried Scholars and Rogues, Scholars and Rogues! which made them all return, but faster than they came thither, never looking back till they had got to their quarters, and verily believed their escape proceeded from the swiftness of their flight: they no sooner came in but immediately they consulted their securities; and after a long and serious debate, 'twas resolved among them, that their best way would be to avoid this verily believed search by changing their Lodgings; they could not effect their desires by reason of a Reckoning not satisfied in their Inn, which put them almost to their wit's end, and made Rodolphus try once more how to get their necks out of this confinement: he had a Sister lived at Hammersmith, which put him in hopes that if he should go to see her, his credit, or her love would contribute to a supply suitable to their deliverance; he went accordingly and found her at home, but withal he likewise found at her house his Brother and other Relations, which for the reason aforesaid, being clad and furnished with his Brother's finery, he had as leave seen old Nick as his face at that present: he no sooner understood of his Brothers being there, but as soon he made his escape, and returned as empty as he went thither of money, though fuller of fear; his necessities notwithstanding daily increasing, and his credit decreasing at his Quarters, he was enforced to send his Servitor within two or three days after, with a Letter to his Sister, full of earnestness for the lending of money; when he came to her she made him alight (though contrary to the commands his Master gave him) and after she had got him into her house, she brought him to the Brother then so much feared by our young Rodolphus, who immediately took this puisne Servitor to task, and after some great words made him confess where his Master lay; this being understood, th●● immediately caused his Coach to be made ready, and with himself, Wife, and two or three of Rodolphus' Sisters, put themselves aboard this Leather Bark, and by the assistance of the silly Guidesman, steared their course directly to his Master's Harbour, and arrived within a very little time there, at the very instant when Rodolphus was selling one of his hired Horses; but their coming changed the Scene, and as Fortune would have it, much for the better; for the great complasance of Rodolphus' Brother plainly testified his contentment rather than resentments of his youthful frolicks. And after some little repast given by Rodolphus to these new come Guests, he calls for a Bill or Reckoning, which his Brother liberally paid, and redeemed these young Pawns from their unthrifty engagements; and gave order, that (the next da● being the great show of the ambitious formality of oliver's Funeral) Rodolpbus should wait on his Sister-in-Law, to see what he so far came for; which he did accordingly, and had a conveniency far exceeding his expectations, and among persons of so good a repute, and such brave young Ladies, that our young Gentleman quite forgot his late extremities, and by this sudden alteration did begin to believe that he was born to live a Courtier; but the very next day by the order of his grave and careful Father, who was then at the Temple, and had heard of his Sons lashing out, he sent one of his men with a command to see him safe home at his College again, otherwise he should certainly incur his Father's displeasure: these summons at first surprised Rodolphus, being just warm in the enjoyment of gallant company, and brave entertainments; but the sensibility of his late crimes made him wisely consider, that it would not be safe to incense an already provoked Father too much; but since he he had so fair an opportunity, and on such good terms to return, he presently obeyed, and gave a farewell (though unwillingly) to his late acquaintance; and with his Servitor, and Father's Man took Horse that very afternoon, having lest his Fellow-Scholars two or three days before, and tends his course for Oxford, where the next day he arrived, without any considerable adventure on the Road; and coming to his Chamber, he accidentally met with his Tutor in the Quadrangle, and after some compliments passed, this little puppet must needs begin to charm his harsh Pipe, and take the liberty to check his Pupil for his late extravagancy; but the London Air had so much altered our young Gentleman, that no such Oxford breath was pleasing to him, which made him roughly quit his Tutor's Company, and tell him, that if he found no better welcomes from others then from him, he would return from whence he came, where (as he said) he should be free from such taunts. This is the second time of Rodolphus' resetlement in his Colledge-life, after two considerable flyings out, and had not the musical temptations of the warlike Instruments invited him abroad, perhaps at this day we might have found him in Christ-Church; but what certainty can be expected from Women and young Men, the one representing the Wind, the other the Wether, for their unconstancy? One day Rodolphus with two or three of his accustomed companions, being drinking a glass of Wine together at the Mermaid-Tavern in Oxford, accidentally saw marching up the high Street, a gallant Party of Horse, bravely accoutred, and well mounted, advancing with their Officers at the head of them, and their naked Swords in their hands in so noble a posture, that it hugely delighted our young Gentlemen, but especially Rodolphus; who being ravished with a martial resolution, immediately began to incite and encourage the minds of his Associates, with a desire of completing that gallant company with their own persons and endeavours; he need not strike fire twice, the tinder receiving the first spark without denial; for no sooner had they contrived a conveniency, but as soon they executed it, and without further delay immediately pawned their Gowns in the Tavern, and merrily drank the Health of their new Admirers, as far as the worth of their Gowns would permit them; and afterwards solemnly protested, that in exchange of such a Monkish Habit, they would put on the Buffcoat, with the iron Hat and Doublet, and never wear Gown more in Oxford. This resolution, by most of them was quickly put in execution, but particularly by our Rodolphus, who by the interest of some acquaintance in those Troops (when persuasions of Friends could not prevent it) got himself mustered among them; and his delight in that military employment gave him no cause to repent of his change of life; for favour libertized him so much, that he was seldom sensible of any hardship or Duty; but riding about and exercising among them when he pleased was grown a custom to him, till one of his Relations (a Colonel of that Army) resolving to make him a Soldier, began to have a strict eye over him, and kept him at last so close to his Duty, that as often as it came to his turn, he was forced to watch with his Comrades; which then made him perceive the difference between a hard Board-Bed at Paul's, and a soft Featherbed at Christ-Church. Notwithstanding this rough usage, our young Soldiers resolutions were too great to admit of the least discouragements in his Martial Proceedings; for so much was his delight in this new kind of life, that he neglected not only fair opportunities of more considerable advantages than he at that time enjoyed, but likewise by no persuasions whatever could he be invited from that rambling and loose kind of life, to a noble and gentile education at the Temple, which his Friends would then most willingly have bestowed on him. This intended perseverance continued not so long, but perhaps the too too severe checks and Commands of a Brother, which was then his Colonel, urgeth a Vale from such infranchisements by our young Soldier: A disobedience to his Superior Officer he well knew was not to be tolerated, nor proper for a Soldier to be guilty of; but a neglect of a Brother's commands he thought pardonable, or at least would make it so; there being ever a natural antipathy, in such cases; for equals in birth and nature could never yet subject themselves to a willing compliance of each others humours: this being then the case of Rodolphus, he fully determined to venture his fortunes in one year or two's Travel, rather than submit himself to a Brother's Commands, having at that time a most convenient encouragement to execute his intended designs; for two of of those young Scholars which, as you have heretofore heard, parted with him at Christ-Church, came and found out their old Associate, which they so long wanted, and after a mutual congratulation given and received among them, they soon resolved what was to be done, and being pretty well provided for their Voyage, they all parted from Tanton-Dean (where Rodolphus then quartered) and with what privacy possible got to Plymouth, where they intended to take shipping: and being there safely arrived, their first business was to inquire what Vessels were bound outward, and whither; which being asked, 'twas known that two were then ready for France, and stayed for nothing but the advantage of a fair wind: which news was not a little welcome to these young Gentlemen, France being the stage coveted by them all to act their first parts in. They quartered at the Three Cranes, where they began to discover that a person of more than ordinary quality lay there wind-bound, and afterwards understood his embarking to be in the same Vessel which they intended to venture in: this person of quality took great delight in our young Travellers, and gave them such large and generous proffers of his civilities, that this unexpected good fortune hugely animated Rodolphus and his companions, who began to think themselves the happiest young men living; they wanted nothing but a wind to waft them over that uncertain Element, nor desired nothing more; they lived gently where they lodged, and made but few meals, which was not in the company of the supposed Nobleman: but who must I complain of; or what Destiny directs things so severely, that our poor Rodolphus can never rightly accomplish his generous inclinations? we see him here safe at Plymouth, and in a company which his very soul delighted in; yet we must sound a a retreat, and resign a contented enjoyment for an uncertain disappointment: but we hourly see the fairest day has some showers, and the most serene sky in the morning, often clouded with dark vapours by noon; thus we find Rodolphus his unparallelled contentment soon eclipsed by the too curious search of his brother's Soldiers, who no sooner found him wanting, but he sent a Party after him with a full Commission to bring him back again: this design of his brothers was discovered to Rodolphus by one of his Sisters, before 'twas altogether put in execution, which enforced him to sell his Horse, which he intended to transport, but worst of all, to leave that dear company he so entirely loved; and that very night the Soldiers came into Plymouth in search of him, he privately took Post-Horses, and by the next morning got to Exeter, where he met with very kind Letters from his brother, with notice that he had got him a Commission for Cornet of Horse: this news at first startled Rodolphus, but at last he considered that this might be only a trap to ensnare him in, and a decoy to invite him to his own Net, which made him take no notice of these Letters, but made what haste he could to England's Metropolis, where he assured himself of a privacy suitable to his necessitated security; he took fresh Post-Horses at Exon, and rid with all Expedition till he came to Salisbury; but there he met with so infallible assurances of his brother's reality, and likewise some seasonable advice and persuasions to return and comply with his brother's humours, that from Salisbury he went directly to his brothers, who lay but eight miles from thence, and found a very civil reception from him, with a Cornets Commission in his brother's Pocket, according as his Letters signified: but these fair Proposals could not invite our Rodolphus to put his neck again under the disaffected yoke of his brother's Privileges, which as his superior Officer, he had over him; but instead of his Commission he desired to ride in General Monks Lifeguard (who was then lately come out of Scotland:) his brother seeing him thus averse in a second re-engagement, and perceiving his neglect of such fair proffers, gave way to his own inclinations, and with Letters of recommendation to Sir Philip Howard sent him going, who being glad of such an Errand, with Horse and Arms, and other accommodations suitable for such employments, he gets to London, where he soon found out Sir Philip, and received the satisfaction of a very civil reception from that ever Honourable person, with a promise of an admittance into the Guard the very next Muster; which afterwards was accordingly performed, with a civility and respect far exceeding his expectations: but Rodolphus being yet very young, not exceeding 18. or 19 at most, began to lash out there more than ever; for he soon perceived that his years had not yet made him capable of such experimented Companions as Lifeguard Men; his money whilst it lasted fled merrily about, and in les● then a twelvemonth his Horse's head was swollen so big, that he could not get him out of the Stable door; a disease very incident and almost infectious among those gentlemen's Horses. This accident happening in a very bad time, made Rodolphus almost mad, and put him to his wits end for new shifts how to rub out; which he endeavoured so long, that he rubbed every thing bore he had to do withal, and at last rubbed himself out of the Guard: Rub, rub, and a good cast, the Proverb goes; I am sure here were rubs enough, and yet the cast bad. This one years' extravagancy did not only cost his Relations several sums of Money, besides his pay, but likewise contracted debts, not inconsiderable to him: notwithstanding which, upon a serious promise of reformation, our Rodolphus was again received into his Father's affection, who paid all his debts, and placed him in the Temple, with so great a care and conveniency, that he lived amongst, and conversed with the best of that Honourable Society: but having not yet sowed his wild Oats, and finding the Law-French, very crabid in comparison of the smooth stile of Pembrokes Arcadia, or a Scudamores Cassandra, he was not able to endure such harsh Lectures, despairing of ever attaining to that knowledge of the Law, which some of his Predecessors has been very eminent in; which consideration made him once more design to see some other than the English world; which his Relations perceiving, and seeing that nothing would tame this unbridled youth but champing on the bit, they freely gave way to his desisired Travels; but withal cunningly contrived his transportation to a place far different to his expectations, and in a condition befitting the worst of Criminals; for instead of a plausible voyage to see the world, and benefit an accomplishment by it, he was fairly shipped for Virginia, and as fairly sold as any Slave that ever went thither. Now Rodolphus has brought his Hogs to a fair Market, and has solitary Woods enough in that unfrequented place, to moan his unexpected and intolerable misery: I verily believe the worst of his lives in England would then have been as welcome to him, as liberty is to those whose strict confinement forbids their seeing the Sun for some years; but 'tis too late to repent, too late to wish, or almost hope, he sees himself bought and sold like a Nag in Smithfield, and he that gave most for him had him: Is this the success Rodolphus of all thy erterprises, and are thy generous undertake but a breeding qualm of this prodigious birth? is this the prize of thy always large endeavours? surely, surely, thy designs were never so mechanic to purchase such mean successes; but thou art not the first thus horribly plunged, for at this day the Turkish Galleys afford too many precedents of like, or worse effects to noble and generous souls. Had our Rodolphus enjoyed but a companion in these extremities, I have often heard him say, that his burden would then have been but light; for his charity was then so little, that he did not only bemoan his Associates felicities in their French Travels, but with reality wished them at his dirty employments: The Mattock and the Axe must be the only company for Rodolphus diversions, which at first seemed most severe, the beginning of erterprises being usually more hard than the effecting them; but use makes perfectness; so that our young Virginian passeth his slavery with a better performance, and far better content than at his first arrival; he daily improves himself in those strange exercises, and quickly learned to be so good a Cooper, that he may never despair of an ordinary livelihood from his late got skill: His usual exercise was felling down Trees, hooping of Hogsheads; and his task would be often so severe, that grim despair would sometimes present himself in those Woods, which are fitting for nothing more than such hellish Executioners; but providence protected him with patience, and at last gave him an opportunity of a fair deliverance: for by the sudden fancy and opinion of a generous soul (for whose sake Rodolphus continues a Vassal to her Sex) he found his liberty from his tyrannising Master, and a fair privilege for his safe return: he meets with this Charitable Woman by accident, who came into a Barn where he was working, and being very inquisitive about several particulars, she immediately grew so concerned for him, that she told him he was his own man; for she had already bought him as her own Slave, therefore he was at her dispose, and might go or come when and where he pleased: This unheard of generosity surprised our young Captive so much, that had he found the least correspondency either in Birth, Parts, or person with himself, or indeed had he found either Youth or Beauty in her, I am persuaded his soul was then so full of gratitude, that he would have thought of no other requital than himself to give her; but where all such invitations are wanting, and only the relics of a rough Planter to be courted, he thought the return of her immense kindnesses could not be better acknowledged then by present thanks, and future profit, as he plentifully promised; for indeed had there been all that belongs to the accomplishment of a woman in this Virginian Widow, his youthful Inclinations were already prepossessed, and the entire affections which he then owed to a young Lady in England, made him altogether incapable of a second passion: seeing therefore he could not possibly satisfy the expectation of his Benefactress (who certainly had more than an ordinary respect for him) he began wisely to consider the promising danger he was liable unto in a long stay there; for as women are the best things living, if pleased, so once being incensed, are they the worst things breathing. History is so full of diabolical designs, and executions of these sort of Furies, that he fully resolved to shun the event, and not allow opportunity a conveniency to make him the subject of such transactions: but since fortune had been so favourable to open the Prison Door, and unlocked his Fetters, he thought it high time to rouse himself, and not to abuse that unconstant Deities civility, fearing her frowns, as well as rejoicing at her smiles: he therefore with all privacy and expedition prepares for a farewell from those wild Barbarians, who had so often made his heart to bleed by their Turkish usages; and after some little time spent in the observance of that pleasantly made Country, he left those parts with as much joy, as with grief he came to them. I have often heard him speak with so great a delight, and so much favour of the Country itself; that the pleasantness thereof was the only cause of his patient sufferings; for in the midst of his slavery he would divert himself with the several objects of wild beasts, and the natural order of a pleasant Wilderness; he observed it to be situated in a moderate Clime, and a commonly serene sky; he found the whole Country a Grove full of Oaks, Pines, Cedars, Cypress, Laurel, Sassafras, Mulberries, Plum-trees, Peaches, and Vines, all of so delectable an aspect, that the melancholiest eye in the world could not look upon it without contentment, nor content himself without admiration: there are no shrubs or underwoods' to choke up the passage; and in its season your foot can hardly direct itself, where it will not be died in the blood of large and delicious Strawberries; the plenty of Fish, Fowl, and Beasts, fitting for the sustenance of man, are innumerable: And indeed there is nothing wanting in this fruitful and plentiful Country, that can be desired for the satisfaction of the most voluptuous wishes. But 'tis time to follow our Rodolphus, who is now tumbling over mountains of Seas, and in so rough a season, that the memory of man never afforded such a stormy passage; 'twas the great Hurricane, that blew so many Trees from their mother Earth, which by providence brought home our young Traveller, though hundred others steeped their bodies in Neptune's brine; no Sun appeared in many weeks to direct the Seaman's observation; nothing but showers and blustering storms; the Porpoises skipping and swarming about the Ships, plainly told them of their present dangers; and the hourly spectacles of most sad and lamentable Shipwrecks portended their own destructions, without an Almighty Providence: in this horrible condition sailed they through the turbulent Element, and at last upon the English Coast, in Bristol Channel they were cast away, and amongst 36 Passengers and Seamen, five only escaped this furious violence, among which Rodolphus was one, who could not swim, nor assist himself in any thing more than desiring the help of the Almighty Assistor, who miraculously preserved his life, and pulled him out of Neptune's jaws, whilst others were swallowed up by that greedy Devourer: but after a tedious and insensible tumbling in the Seas, their cruelty at last ceased, being appeased with the Victim of 30 of them at least; the rest being cast on the neighbouring Rocks, where they made a shift to scramble from that unkind entertainment they lately received; and after the warm Sun and fixed foundation had a little comforted them, they began to revive like those which newly came forth of a deadly Trance; and when their frozen tongues began to melt, they first expressed their joy for the great mercy of this admirable deliverance, and with the same tongues lamented the loss of all their poor acquaintances, with so great a sorrow, that the very Rocks they then sat on seemed to accompany their complaints; they saw the Bodies, Goods, and Vessel of their loving friends tossed on the Seas, with so angry a motion, as if they resolved to revenge poor Rodolphus' escape on those already inanimates; they were not able to endure this pitiful spectacle, but with what hast their feeble limbs would permit, they got away, hunger and cold forcing a march; the best furnished among them was so poorly clad, that Rodolphus was best provided, having only a Shirt, Waistcoat, and Linings; but his charity would not permit him to wear them, for the Captain of the Vessel, who was likewise saved from this miserable shipwreck, had not so much as a Shirt to his back, which forced Rodolphus to lend him his, leaving himself only Linings and Waistcoat. In this poor habit march they along, being near twenty miles from Bristol, and being forced to live on the charitable contribution of the better sort of Householders till they got thither, Rodolphus was the Speaker wherever they came, and played the part of a Beggar so well, that had they been for a considerable time to endure this kind of life, they perceived this begging Oratory would keep them from a hungry belly, or at least a starving; but they were not the right sort of Ramblers, who destiny their lives to such thievish and lazy exercises; for their bare feet, and almost bare backs, gave them many bitter remembrances, and sharply advised their speedy deliverance out of those necessities: they often found taunts and threats, as well as compassion and relief; which made them of an opinion, that none has those privileges in the discovery of men's affections and conditions, as these State Caterpillars: They went still to the better sort of Houses, and if any of them proved to be Gentlemen, they could give so civil a satisfaction of any demand proposed, that most were apt to believe they were not born wanderers. One day they all addressed themselves towards a house, which by its largeness and situation, promised the owner to be a man of repute, and to them a plentiful relief; being come thither they received but a surly answer from a kind of Porter, who was at the Gate; but poverty enforcing patience, made them bear his uncivil language without retort, and continue for some while in an open Hovel, to repose their weary limbs, and refresh their coming stomaches with those Provisions the charity of some had bestowed on them; it chanced whilst they were thus employed, that a maid-servant belonging to this Gentleman's house, accidentally came to the Hovel, and finding these poor Travellers sitting on pieces of old Carts and other lumber, and in such a strange guise, her tender heart began to take compassion at this unexpected sight, which made her courteously ask what they were, and whether they expected relief from that House? this emboldened the heartbroken Paupers, to let her know their conditions, and desire her if she were a Christian, and had any consideration of goodness (which was not possible, as Rodolphus told her, that one of her aspect could want) that she would do them the kindness to let the Master of the house know that some poor shipwrackt Travellers were without, and to desire him to consider their condition: this well-disposed Maid was so glad of the Errand, as if she believed the execution thereof to be meritorious, and delivered her message with so good a success, that orders were presently given to these newly-begun Beggars to come to the Hall door, where (out of curiosity) stood the Mistress of the House, with several other Gentlewomen, expecting their coming; they had not waited long ere they saw our Travellers, whose extremities put wings to their feet, and made them advance with a motion well testifying their wants: the Ladies first demands were, from whence they came, and what they were, with many other questions; which being answered by Rodolphus, they began more curiously to observe these Wanderers, and finding something in them more than in the common sort of such Vagabonds, the young Ladies than began to be more inquisitive in knowing their names, birth, and Country; all which Rodolphus gave them so plentiful an account of, and so true a one, their names only excepted, (for 'twas pre-agreed among them, to go under the notion and assume other names, by reason of their poverty) that they were not only highly satisfied in the reality of that free declare, but the Lady of the House with a strong passion flies out in the admiration of providence, who she verily believed had brought to her a near and dear Relation in the person of Rodolphus; she runs to him with open arms, and embraceth him with such earnestness, that it hugely surprised the standers by: by this we may see, that if the supposed belief of consanguinity has power to create so great a kindness, what then must be the force of blood not mistaken; if Rodolphus found himself from a beggar wrapped in the sweet embraces of a worthy Lady, by an abused opinion, what had been his reception or rather his happiness, if truth would have allowed a sympathy in these affections? but as his case then stood, he thought it not convenient to undeceive this wellminded Lady, but let her run on in this kind error, till by her assistance he might do himself and Companions some service in their necessities; he therefore returns her chaste caresses, with an expression as zealous as her own, and admired his better Fortune in guiding him to so dear a Kinswoman, as he called her. The name he took on him chanced to be her maiden name, and his pretended Father her own Uncle; he did it not unadvisedly, for he picked out a Family which was gentle and ancient; and such a Family, that if by accident he should meet with any that knew them, he could give as good an account of them as of his own; 'tis not convenient to give the name he then owned, let it therefore suffice, that by it he got this good Kinswoman, who spent no longer time in an airy congratulation; for being sensible of their wants, she presently commands a good Fire to be made in the Hall, and what dry clothes the house afforded, to shift their wet and thin Garments; the assisting hands of every one of those pretty Ladies to this charitable work made all things insensibly ready; and when they saw the scarcity of men's apparel, Smocks and Petticoats were immediately brought in, and so comfortably aired and warmed, that our drooping and benumbed Travellers found a sweet refreshment and alteration by this seasonable relief: The next conveniency provided, was good Liquor and Meat to nourish and cherish them within; and that nothing might be wanting to the completing of these unparallelled kindnesses, the Ladies (as soon as they were shifted) came in to them, and by their presence made them far more happy then by all their other bountiful provisions. Rodolphus was quite at a stand for words suitable for a grateful return; yet he expressed himself so conveniently, that they were all assured their kindnesses were not bestowed on those that wanted thankful souls. Now begins the Lady once more to be earnest with her new found Kinsman, to give her a true and impartial account of all his Travels and successes, and likewise of his Relations, she being almost a stranger among them, by the great distance of place Marriage had confined her unto. Rodolphus was as free in obeying as she in desiring; so that she soon understood what she requested, and not with so small a satisfaction, but that the best things in this good Gentlewoman's house were all too bad for the accommodation of her shipwrackt Cousin. Rodolphus' companions were no losers by his good success, for whatever he enjoyed was freely distributed among them; he would not accept of the least particular assistance, which might any ways capacitate his condition better than theirs. Time runs and it grows late, which made them think of a farewell that night; so that they all parted to their several lodgings, where (especially our weary Travellers) did sound repose their weary Limbs: they arose the next morning with an intent to go on in their pilgrimage; they waited some hours to see the Ladies, and to give them an adieu: at last they left their night Quarters, and came among their Guests, with a new addition of their yesterday gallantry; and indeed in so noble a garb were the young Ladies, and in so advantageous a dress, as if they designed to make a conquest of Love as well as Courtesy to their already Prisoners. Rodolphus and the Captain of the lost Vessel, though in their ordinary Habit, yet were very pleasant and merry among them, and without offence took a freedom befitting such company. The Lady of the house would needs have obliged Rodolphus in the acceptance of a very noble suit of clothes, which were lately made for her Husband, but never on his back, he being at London when they came home; he could not out of civility but put them on, the importunities of the Lady commanding it; but proving much too big for him, he gladly returned them with thanks, for he had a real desire to see his own Relations in the condition he was then in, believing to move some of them to a sorrow, especially those whom he thought the cause of this mechanic Voyage. In this time Dinner was providing, which being brought in, they broke up other discourses, and exercised themselves one hour at least, at that which no less than their lives were concerned in. Rodolphus took this opportunity, being altogether, to declare his own and Companions thanks for all their generous obligations, and then in his own behalf more particularly he made his application to his Kinswoman, concluding with an earnest request that he might without disobedience leave her; for notwithstanding no persons or company whatever could be more satisfactory or dear to him than herself and the other Ladies, yet the necessity of his parting was so extreme, that no persuasion whatever could invite his l●nger stay; which the Ladies perceiving, they would not longer load him with importunities, but after mutual and loving Embraces they parted, our Travellers towards Bristol, and I verily believe the Gentlewoman to her Closet, where with freedom she might vent her charitable sorrows for thus parting with her poor Kinsman; but she was something satisfied with the Captain's assurance that he gave her at parting, which was, that he doubted not of supplies sufficient to accommodate all their necessities when they arrived at Bristol; for notwithstanding he was a stranger in that City, yet he believed to meet with a Confident, who would answer his expectations, were it for hundreds: this belief purchased the discontented Ladies satisfaction, thinking her Cousin would find a better accommodation by the Captain's assistance, than by her neglected proffers; yet this mirror of goodness could not be at quiet after Rodolphus was gone, but she must needs send a trusty Messenger after them to observe those inconveniencies she was jealous they would engage in; and likewise gave orders, that if her Servant perceived they were disappointed in their Bristol expectations, he should immediately proffer to furnish Rodolphus with forty pounds to be at his dispose: thus marched our Travellers being fourteen miles from Bristol, with the Lady's Servant following them unperceived, and by their willingness they got to their journey's end that night; they took up their quarters at a mean Alehouse, places of greater repute refusing the entertainment of such naked Guests; the honest Servant comes to the same house, took a room next to theirs, and diligently observed and listened to their discourse, which he perceived full of admration and thanks for his Mistress' civilities, and likewise full of sorrow and complaint for their present miseries, being frustrated of all hopes of supplies in that unacquainted City, by the late death of the Captain's friend: this being understood by the faithful Messenger, the next morning for our sorrowful Traveller's Breakfasts he gave them the comfortable news of his Mistress' commands, and told Rodolphus, that if he refused her desired courtesy, she should then have great cause of unkindness for him: this unheard of generosity strangely obliged Rodolphus, and put him almost to his wit's end, whether 'twere best or not to receive this sum, doubting his disability of a punctual payment, and so made guilty of the horriblest unhandsomness in the world, by abusing the best of women; but now being absent from her, and necessity speaking aloud for an acceptance, he thanked the Messenger, and told him, since his Cousin's commands were so, he dared not disobey her, especially being utterly unprovided for any thing necessary towards his long Travels: this made the Servant go with expedition where he was ordered to receive the money; he no sooner demanded it but had it, and no sooner received it, but paid it to Rodolphus, who liberally rewarded his honesty, and with a Letter full of acknowledgements sent him back to his Mistress; and out of hand provided himself of a very handsome suit of Clothes, and some good Linen, and furnished the Captain with twenty pound, who accommodated the wants of his Seamen, and so they parted, Rodolphus to his Fathers in Oxfordshire, the Seamen to their homes at London. What a redemption providence has bestowed on our lately miserable wanderers, let the reader judge; and if he thinks on't, and not admire it, I am deceived; for from a wretched and distressed Beggar, in a place as uncapable and destitute of acquaintance as Virginia itself; from a poor and miserable slave in the Indies, to be thus restored, not only to his former liberty and native Country, but likewise delivered from such a horrid and dangerous shipwreck, and from a naked and despicable poverty to a gallant and gentile equipage: I say this is not only unparallelled but miraculous. Rodolphus is on his march for Oxfordshire, where he soon arrived; but 'twas in vain to aver his sufferings, nor yet his losses; none admitting a belief by reason of his then gallantry, for he made himself as fine as possible, and took Sir Walter Raleighs advice as authentic, that all young men should rather endeavour an equipage above then below their qualities; he needed not such a spur to prompt him to that which his own inclinations always invited him unto, but more particularly at this time; for extremes being commonly the Scenes and Parts of such Actors, he thought he could not better quit the opinion of his late poverty, then by a glorious and splendid show of gallantry, let the world see, that he could become such a garb as well as his late rags: His Relations were full of hopes and expectations of some considerable return from his long voyage: but they soon understood his chiefest Riches and Merchandise to be on his back. About this time our Queen Katherine arrived at Portsmoutb, and an Army was designed for Portugal, the Lord Inchequeen being their General. This design was cried up to the Skies, and extolled with such high Encomiums, that he had not the spirit of a Gentleman, who would not testify his Loyalty by this foreign service. Rodolphus had scarce rested his tossed and wearied Body at his Father's house, but he must once more expose himself to the mercy of that rugged Ocean which lately had been so discourteous to him; and having a Relation that went a Commander in this expedition, he got the consent (by perpetual importunities) of his Parents, and listed himself in a Western Gentleman's Troop, which then lay at Plymouth ready to take Shipping; and by the favour of his new Captain, mustered a man: Being thus provided with a couple of able Geldings, and good Clothes, and Money, he took Shipping with the rest of the Soldiers: and by the favour of a fresh and moderate Gale they soon arrived at Lisbon, where they found a plausible reception at their first landing, with Bonfires and ringing of Bells, and many other tokens of outward Joy: some of the Officers and a few young Gentlemen, at their first arrival landed at Lisbon, the residue of the Army being transported farther in the Country. Among those that stayed behind to have the advantage of seeing that famous City, was Rodolphus, whose curiosity made him earnest for that liberty which easily was granted by his Superiors; they dressed themselves at their first entrance into the City, with all the advantages imaginable, and had the honour of kissing King Alphonso's hand; who seeing such a gallant Company, he pleasantly told them, that his desires to his Brother, were (meaning the King of England) to accommodate him with Soldiers to fight with the Spaniard, but he believed he had sent him his Courtiers to kiss his Country-women. I verily believe, there was never a more gallant party went out of England upon any design whatever, than were that Regiment of Horse which Inchequeen commanded; of six hundred, there were at least four hundred of them gentlemen's Sons; they came into the Country full of money and gallantry, and those which survived left it as full of poverty and necessity: But they startled the Portuguees, and made that proud people confess, that few Princes in Christendom, but must veil their Bonnet to Britain's King. I shall not insist upon any thing which is not directly to Rodolphus' concerns; I shall wave therefore the giving any account of that Brigado, or of their several marches and separations, with many eminent adventures and transactions which happened among them, and prosecute our mark with a diligent endeavour, not leaving him an hour without a strict observance of his actions in this relation. Rodolphus was highly taken with Lisbon, he admired the situation of it, with the noble Harbour and gallant appearance of shipping, which was constantly riding under their very windows; he liked extremely the several orders of the Religioses, both men and women, and was not dissatisfied with their contraries the Temporals, whose Fashions and Customs, with their plausible civilities, made them much esteemed by our young Traveller: his chiefest exercise (whilst he continued at Lisbon) was the hunting of the wild Boar; which heroic sport was much advanced by the King's presence, who seldom missed on Mondays and Thursdays those pleasant diversions: his stay was not long there, because of that obligation all Soldiers are bound unto by an unavoided residence; he therefore with two or three more of his Comrades, makes what haste he can after the already marched Soldiers, but withal took the advantage of seeing those Cities and other places of greatest repute, which lay in or near their way: this caused their journey to be hugely pleasant, never wanting variety of delightful objects to satisfy their greediest curiosities; sometimes the religious Hermit, in his dark and unfrequented Cell, would invite their going astray a mile or two, the tops of Mountains or desolate Wildernesses being their usual places of abode; their severe and rigid life, with a strange sequestration from the worlds concerns, was not a little to be admired; their Diet and Lodging was as strange, feeding on nothing but wild Fruits, and drinking nothing but spring-water, wearing nothing but a hairy Gown (and that next to their skins) nor lying on any thing but green Turfs and withered leaves: thus the Hermit: Then their riding through large and spacious Vineyards, thronged with stately Figtrees and Mulberries, with several other delicious Fruits, made them wish themselves perpetual Pilgrims in these Elysian Fields. Sometimes would they go through brave and sumptuous Groves of Olive-Trees, so close and shady for many miles together, that they proved great friends in so near a neighbourhood, by keeping off the scorching Sun from the melting Passenger: Then would they be extremely delighted in the Orange and Lemon Groves, which pretty fruit seemed to outvie one another in their amity, by nodding & bowing their yellow and sappy heads to the gentle Traveller to pull and eat his fill; next would present to their views the Citron and Pomegranate, who with a more surly and swarthy countenance would tell them, that notwithstanding their sullen looks, yet their inside exceeded the rest of their neighbouring Kinsfolk both in taste and colour; and those that would not believe might try: Then the prickle Pares humility was worth the taking notice of, spreading itself on the the ground, and subject to the trample of every Ass; yet his goodness perhaps not inferior to those who grow more proudly and loftier: what should I say, but in few words let you know that our mother Earth seems to be delighted in nothing more than a plentiful production of every thing which may contribute to the benefit and satisfaction of her commonly ingrate children? the very mountains, the most desolate and barbarous places of that Land, this generous mother clads them in a noble Mantle, and attires them in no worse an equipage than the best of our English Gardens; for there is no riding over any of those places, but of necessity their Horse's Feet must tread on, and bruise the tender Herbs and choice Flowers, which grow so abundantly, that 'twould puzzle the best Herbalist or Flowerist to give their names, and ●●aze them in their variety: The plenty likewise of Herds of Goats, and other Cattle was considerable, the Shepherd of every Flock being their proper owners, and attending them in such a careful, but musical manner, that none could see them without a particular observation; they all played on the Guittar and Cittern, and the irrational Animals prettily kept time to their musical Notes: There was no Passenger, but with civility might be welcome to a draught of Milk, which the Shepherd liberally bestowed on any that desired it, having a little Cork Bucket fitting for such a purpose. Through these delightful Objects pass our amazed Travellers, till they came to the Frontiers of Portugal; which proved much more barren to that already known Country which their late Travels had acquainted them with. The continual Wars between them and the Spaniard is the only cause of a scarcity in those parts, the Soil and Clime being as good as in any other place of the Kingdom; but who knows not what an enemy War is to Plenty? After Rodolphus' first arrival at a considerable Frontier-Town called Estr●moss, he took up his Quarters, the residue of that Troop he belonged to being there disposed of. As he went up the Streets, it chanced that a Portuguez Nobleman took notice of him, and immediately fancied him to resemble a Brother of his which died not long before his coming thither; this Brother being very much beloved by Don Juan de Silua, who is this Nobleman, caused him to give Rodolphus an invitation to his House, and courteously told him, that if he pleased to accept the accommodation he there found, the best which his house afforded, should freely be at his service: this proved a civility very rare among those Country Gentlemen, whose privileges exempt them from quartering Soldiers, and whose jealousy seldom admits of hardly their relational Acquaintances to come to their houses. Rodolphus therefore finding such an earnest Invitation, embraced it with thanks, and with his Servant and Portmanteau, went to Don Juan's; where they first found good Stabling for their Horses, and afterwards as good Provision for themselves: He found many conveniencies (by Don Juan's continued kindnesses) which the best of his Countrymen wanted; for there his Diet was incomparably dressed, and always seasonable hours observed, and a Table so plentifully spread, that Inchequeen himself would have envied the entertainment of our young Traveller, could he have imagined his varieties to exceed so much his own: but Rodolphus could not be satisfied with the uncivil custom which they use to their Wives and Sisters, nay to their Mothers themselves; for they never admit them to sit down at Table with them, nor never so much as drink with them; they keep them at so strange a distance, that their Wives must not lie with them but when they send for them, and then not above an hour or two; a stranger must not look on them, nor speak to them: which made Rodolphus at first commit many errors, being ignorant of their mode: he was often in Don Juan's House so mistaken with talking and drinking, and other familiarities among the Gentlewomen, that had it not been Rodolphus, he had found a chastisement far exceeding his crimes, yet answerable to the Portuguees jealousies; but the great love his noble Patron had for him, made him take no notice of his actions, or at least past them by with a prudent carelessness; yet not so unconcerned, but that Rodolphus soon found his mistake, and by degrees weaned himself so much from his English Fashions, that he became almost a Portuguez; which made him enjoy with the greater freedom the advantages that his noble quarters afforded him: he never had a Napkin twice, nor a Towel two days together; he never lay in Sheets above a week, nor never wanted the best conveniencies that the curiosity of the better sort of that Country enjoyed: he continued six months at least at Don Juans House, and lived in so great a plenty and gallantry, that the best of the English Brigade came far short in their accommodations, although they paid dear for it. But the time of action draws on, and a summons given for a speedy preparation to a Campaigne life: the Spaniard is already in the field, and doing considerable mischiefs, which makes the greater haste for a general Muster; Rodolphus takes leave of his beloved Landlord, and tenders with earnestness a retaliation of his kindness; he would willingly have satisfied Don Juan for the great charge himself, Servant, and Horses had put him unto; but he could fix nothing on him with all his Rhetoric, but found a free-Quarters for that long residence; and at his farewell this noble person bestowed several conveniencies and provisions on Rodolphus, suitable for a Campaignes' want; he accepted only of an English Rapier, and that by perpetual importunities. But time calls away, which enforceth Rodolphus' march, for by this time the Spaniard had possessed himself of one of the most considerable Cities in Portugal, called by the name of Ebora; whether the success of that bold achievement was by the Spanish valour or Portuguez treachery, I will not now question; but certain I am, that the loss of this City did not only surprise, but likewise startle and discourage the whole Army at the news of it: but Don Zancho a Portugal, and Conde Chombergh a Frenchman, being both wise and resolute men, and Generalissimos of the Portugal Forces, did by their discreet conduct quickly regain their lost City, and in a great and bloody fight overthrew the Spanish Army with such a general rout, that the whole plunder of the field, with all their bag and baggage, and thousands of their lives paid for their late bold attempt: the resolutions and valour of the English Brigade, was not a little instrumental in this great Victory, although the ingrate Portugal would not acknowledge it. I shall however wave their continued and treacherous baseness which they always showed to the English Army, which deservedly merited their best esteem; and only let you know, that in the fight there were lost no less than four hundred of the English Cavalry, the whole number being but six hundred; which miserable rack caused the poor Englishmen to return with hoarse Trumpets & dead-beating Drums, notwithstanding a certain and absolute Victory: Rodolphus at that time was Cornet of Horse, but after the fight there were left more Officers than private Soldiers, the number of that gallant Regiment being reduced to one small Troop: this caused a general endeavour by those that survived, to bestow themselves in other capacities, ●nd list among the English Infantry; some got commands by vacancies which the engagement caused; among which by the favour of Colonel James Apsly, Rodolphus got a Commission for Captain of Foot, in which he continued for some months, till the fortune of War made him Prisoner to the Spaniard; whose noble and heroic civilities obliged Rodolphus so much, that he fully determined at his releasement to quit his command, and never engage himself more against a Nation which proved so far exceeding in all worth and honour, to those he before hazarded his life for: he with three or four more Englishmen were taken by a party of Spanish Horse, when they least thought on't, and in the midst of their recreations, being merrily flinging Oranges at one another in a pleasant Grove near Estremos, a Frontier Town in Portugal: Whilst they were thus diverting themselves, the Spaniards came rattling in amongst them, and immediately disarm them, and carry them all away to a City called Batajos in Castille, where as Enemies they were honourably entertained; and during their confinement, they found all the courtesies and respect that could be imagined from their greatest friends; they had their liberty to walk where they pleased on their paroll, only a Keeper with them; and after six week's imprisonment, by way of Exchange they were restored to their former liberty; and after their arrival among their former Associates, Rodolphus immediately resigned his command, and took shipping at Lisbon, with a fair and prosperous Gale, which soon brought them to Dover, where he took Post-Horses for London; but at his arrival there, he found all his Relations gone, which made him make what haste possible to his Fathers in Oxfordshire, his stock being then but very small. His Friends were a little surprised at his first coming home, his return being so sudden, and his equipage so mean; but they soon considered his former adventures to be much after the same manner, and where ever he went (though never so well provided) yet the best account of his profit was always mean and poor: they all very well knew, that when he left England, his accoutrements for Habit, and Horses, with money in his pocket, stood his Father in little less than 200 l. yet they soon perceived all the clothes on his back not to be worth two pence, and all the money in his pocket not amounting to 6 pence; but in health and in wealth, in poverty and in sickness, Rodolphus still found a most loving and indulgent Father: he now returns like the true Prodigal, especially in one sense, having eat and fed on Acorns in his Portuguez hardships. After some month's residence among his Friends, he begins once more to work at the rough and hard Anvil of the Law, he keeps the Terms, is called to the Bar, and for a time goes on with delight; but he now meets with a rub, which usually overturns more serious and fixed intents then his own; he is by Friends advised to a Mistress, and his own inclinations invite him to another; here is a Scilly and Carybdis, which certainly Rodolphus can never escape without a miserable shipwreck: This takes him off from all his new begun studies; now he begins once more to lash out, and designs his courtship braveries so high, that he quickly found the inconveniency of such excesses; he cares not for the party whom his Friends recommend him unto, nor she which his own fancy leads him to, cares not for him. Thus we see poor Rodolphus miserably tossed in Love's Blanket: he knows not how to fly or get out of this new confinment, but by travelling once more; he tries that way, and takes the opportunity of seeing Ireland, where yet he had never been; he traverses all parts of that Country, and hoped his absence would have defaced or at least diminished the intent of Relations or his own Affections; he returns after a twelvemonth's travel in that naked, yet plentiful Country; but finds his Mistress still continues in his esteem, and his friends still in their resolves: He flies obedience to pursue love, but begins to wish he had fled love to pursue obedience; he lives in a timorous suspense for some months, till a continued disregard from his Admiress, began first to cool his amorous flame, and at last clearly quenched it. Being free from the very worst of captivities, he once more resolves to follow his Studies, and in obedience to his Father's commands, he repairs to London; where at his Chamber in the Inner-Temple he continued with an unconcerned industry, till going to see a relation of his at Hammersmith, he there finds another Devota; his fancy began to work Chimeras, and in the midst of his most serious thoughts, such idle Ideas would present themselves before him, that it hugely disquieted his then contentment: he knew the danger of that malady he so lately to his hurt underwent, and he was very sensible that a relapse was more dangerous than the first infection; he therefore endeavours to disengage himself from that growing inconveniency, and in time to nip that inevitable evil in the bud; his desires were not in vain executed; for he lived with a very great indifferency, and his actions and demeanours clearly testified his disesteem of any thing but his Book: he could see his quondam Mistress without concern, and could be in her company without the least appearance of Love's discovery: this made Rodolphus live hugely contented at his Sister's House in Hammersmith; till a Gentlewoman, which the Heavens had decreed to be his, came thither; the first sight of her assured him she was born to be his, and his real affections to her confirmed him in the belief of it: he misseth no time in prosecuting his suit, nor from the beginning will never admit of a denial; his endeavours are with success, for in less than two months he proved to be her Admirer, her Servant, and her Husband. Now 'tis time to sing a Requiem, not only to Rodolphus' Travels and uncertain ramblings, but to this Discourse, which notwithstanding it be illiterate and imperfect, yet the Truth and Reality of it I hope will find an acceptance from those who bestow the perusal on Youth's unconstancy.  
FINIS.