DIOMEDES, The Dutch Rogue.   depiction of Diomedes de Lebechea   

The Dutch Rogue or, Gusman of Amsterdam Traced from the Cradle to the Gallows: Being, the Life, Rise, and Fall of D. de Lebechea a DECAYED MERCHANT.  
Containing many fraudulent Practices, notorious Villainies, and audacious Erterprises, with their various events.  
Illustrated with Copper-plates.  
Out of Nether-dutch.  
AUSONIUS' de variet. Fortunae.  
Is qui condiderat, postquam non repperit aurum, Aptavit collo quem repperit laqueum.  
LONDON, Printed by A. M. for Greg. Hill, 1683.   

To the READER.  
EVery day is a Mirror, and the World itself a Stage, whereon we see the Variety of Fortune lively displayed, the Vicissitudes of Dignities and Preferments, the Alienations of Thrones and Sceptres. The vast Globe of the Earth (according to the Hypothesis of Copernicus, upon which the Magnetic Philosophy is, or seems to be founded, is in perpetual motion, and consequently all visible Creatures which have their Oecema or habitacle here, seem also subject to the same Instability. This Opinion of his, although received by few, yet if taken in some sense is not so strange, to wit, That the Earth and Temporal Delights, in which some place their Summum bonum, or Chiefest Good, are subject to Change, rolling and turning upon slender Occasions and less powerful Causes, apt to rise, and not unapt to fall; so that all the Race of Mankind are as it were altered by a Secundary motion. Some times it is conspicuous in one and the same Man to be advanced from Poverty to Wealth, promoted from Shame to Honour and elevated from the Dungeon to a Throne, and on an instant depressed from Riches to Extreme Wants, abased from the highest pitch of Reputation to the sink of Dishonour and reduced from the Sceptre and Chair of State to the Oar and Galley. Remarkable was that Change of C. Marius, a Person of obscure Parentage, and beholden to his valour for his Advancement, who was for 6 years together Consul of Rome, and in the 7th went about to ask an Alms. No less worthy of observation is that of the famous Duc de Luna, who carried Inconstancy in his Name and Title, who was raised from a poor and mean Fortune to be a Favourite and Minion of the most puissant King of Spain, yet in a moment, when in the height of Grandour, was beheaded upon the Scaffold, and his body suffered to lie three days in the streets without Burial. Small was the interval of time between the Royal Favours of that great Persian Monarch in conferring such honours upon Haman, and the direful effects of his Displeasure, which hurled him out of the World, by a scandalous and ignominious Death: short, I say, was the time between the Queen's Banquet and the Gibbet. But what need we go so far as Rome, Madrid, or Shushan, or search old Annals and Registers for an Instance, when as every Man is either more or less to himself an Example of Change, a Mirror of Inconstancy and the Tennis-ball of Fortune, who wheeling about throws down with her left hand what she sets up with her right. But all the wiles and Projects that Ambition and Covetousness use for Implements in aspiring to those ends they aim at, were fit to write whole volumes of, than to go about to recount them in a Preface to a Schedule of such mean Importance as this little book is. Many times they miss of their aim who nevertheless seem to have laid a fair Foundation, and manage their Project well and prudently to the very Catastroph of all, and as often do they who are careless and remiss, in the midst of their Security and Supine negligence exchange Fortunes with the former, and therefore fitly said Ausonius,  
Thesauro invento qui limina mortis inibat,  
Liquit ovans laqueum, quo periturus erat  
At qui, quod terrae abdiderat, non repperit aurum,  
Quem laqueum invenit, nexuit, & periit.  
We have here a Precedent of one subject to many Changes, raised as it were from a Dunghill to the Spire of Fortune, on whom she has shown all the Effects of Chance and Change. The name under which he is shrouded may seem to diminish the Credit of the matter, yet we concluded it better to be a little injurious to ourselves in being liable to such a censure, than to give the very and true name of the Party himself, which might crack the Reputation of many honest Friends of his, who bear the same name, and their Posterity in after times, who might also receive some disadvantage and blemish by it: for the Rule of a Satirist is equally proper to us, Parcere Personis, loqui de vitiis; To spare the Persons & treat of the Vice.  
Others there were also, either embarked with, or interested in him, whose real names we have supplied either with Anagrams, or otherwise, for the like reasons; for it is not our Province to cauterize the whole Stock for the impiety of one Rotten Branch, for so we might blast the best of Mankind.  
The Scope, I believe, of the Dutch Writer was only to give a caution how to beware of such as under fair pretences of Religion, which some make a Cloak for Knavery, endeavour to defraud the World, as also that the Golden appearances and glittering shows by which many are deceived, may not prove a stumbling-block to such as are simple and of an upright dealing; whereas many fraudulent and obscure devices are laid open to the view of all.  
Nor need it be censured as any detriment to Merchants, for whom all the World hath a special veneration; since the best Society in the World had an impious Member, and if it be lawful to meddle with Holy Writ in a Profane Treatise, we may instance how that Judas was included in the number of the 12 Disciples, or if we may be so worthy as to record or turn to the serious Histories of the Public-weal of Rome, we find a Catiline, a Laelius, Yea, a Nero among the Emperors; was it then a shame for a Theodosius or a Constantine to have such a Predecessor? for Wisdom judges of them as Men, not as Emperors, and regards the Person, not the Condition of men. But what have we to do with Emperors?  
But we had almost forgot to say something by way of Apology as to the Protocol in the Title Page, for that some may take offence at the name of a Dutch Rogue; but since we meet with an English, a Spanish and a French Rogue written by the Natives of those three Countries which never, that we could ever hear, gave dislike to any particular Person, so we hope this will not be offensive to any of the Dutch Nation to whom we are too much obliged to cast any aspersion upon it. Farewell.  
S. P. Gravesend, May 18. 1863.   

THE Life, Rise, and Fall of the DECAYED MERCHANT.  
When Triumphant Holland like the victorious Tritonia was mounted on her pompous Chariot, moulded of Spanish Silver by the valorous Enterprises of her renowned Admiral Peter P. Heyn; and her fatal solitudes seemed to give way, and allow her access to the Temple of Joy: there dwelled in the famous City of Amsterdam one justinus, a youth, whose mind upon the report of this most gallant Exploit, and the noise of such an invaluable prize seemed to be bewitched out of the bounds of Continency; The universal display of an atchieument so noble, created in him another frame and temper of spirit, insomuch that it bereft him totally of the blessed fruition of Contentment in his proper vocation; adjudging it too mean a Medium to render him a participant of so big a Fortune; and an occupation not able to do him the lest service in the acquirement of his ambitious ends: so that contrary to the vulgarly known (yet solid) Document of Apelles, Let not the Shoemaker go beyond his Last, he arrives at this Conclusion, That some other course must be taken whereby he may attain to the scope he aimed at: yet all his Resolutions were as impracticable, as his End was vain and inaccessible; to carry it on in Honour and Valour, was a sphere too sublime and redious for him to move in, as Theft and Cheating was base and perilous; The former difficult, because he was not endowed with that acuteness of a Genius, which is requisite in endeavouring to gain the ascendant of those with whom he would willingly be had in repute; and the Party in perpetual danger of discovery, and the sequel. Thus the more he consulted with his Wits, the less satisfaction and product he reaped from a continual study and screwing of his Brain; so that sometimes to indulge his disquieted mind with ease and cessation of thoughts, he would betake himself to a Temple hallowed to the name of Bacchus, to whom he as often prostituted himself a Votary. In this Temple was a Priestess who had great interest and acquaintance with a certain Lady, who lived in the neighbourhood. These two frequently keeping together, gave justinus an Opportunity, now and then of seemg the latter, till at last he was caught in Cupid's net. As for her form, she (in his judgement) surpassed all that ever he had seen in his life time. To give you a relation of his deportment were a needless undertaking, since the World affoards us so many Copies, in those who are possessed with that bewitching Doemon, although every one have not the good Success our worthy Patient had, for greatly to his satisfaction he entered into Conjunctions with his imagined Deity, and had indeed a competent sum of money to boot, whereupon in an honest and temperate way he might have lived a contented-life.  
Thus having obtained the full enjoyment of his desires, was in some measure content with the Merchandise he had purchased with the surrender of his freedom; hoping that his gains in time would be a hopeful issue, as indeed it was, for shortly after she presented him with her portraiture, which he had moulded after the Original, and was so well imitated in lineaments and Symmetry, that had not the Dimensions had imparity, it had been hard to determine which was the Copied, which the Copy, as far as regards the Figure: an offspring which seemed by the kind Heavens to be endowed with Spirit and Livelyness. But that his Fortune should not be too redundant in the effects of liberality, so soon as his son was produced from behind the Curtains of Time, his worthy Consort, as having perfected her Duty to him, and paid her Debts to Nature, expired her last, and took her leave of the World; which now involved the sad Father into so much Grief and Sorrow, that he was very prompt to submit himself to the Tomb: but far mistaken, for Clotho had yet a little Flax to draw before his fate would allow A●ropos to break the thread.  
The Child being born, his Father thought it a duty incumbent on him to baptise him, which he also did, and under a name wholly conformable to his then afflictions, which we are desirous for this time to wave, the more because we are not willing to give any offence to his Friends and Alliance, many of whom are still living, much less, to be the occasion of any disadvantage, or be injurious to their Estate or Reputation: but (notwithstanding the just merits of his wicked practices might not deserve it) we will shroud him under the name of Diomedes de Lebechea: which we borrow from an Appellative that exactly suits his drift and humour; for the word Lebeche imports as much as the South-west Wind, to which he may be fitly compared, being vain and light in his thoughts and projects, and managing his affairs and actions without any Foundation; and as the Sun of Earthly Fortune sometimes shone with his acceptable rays upon his thoughts, being (as it were) Westerly, but wavering from the point again produced him (like a south wind) a shower of Tears, as is frequenty conspicuous with those who settle their Foundations in the wind, not tilling nor cultivating their mind, but willingly content themselves with those weeds, which are the proper products of nature.  
At first he grew up in Strength and health, being of a good and handsome form, both in body and visage, and in every thing else promising enough; from which his father received no small complacency, but after that depth of grief and sorrow which he had upon the decease of his endeared consort, he began to comfort himself with the life of her only son and offspring. After a few years he put put him out to School, where in a short time he had made himself master of Reading, Writing, Arithmetic and Merchants Accounts, partly by the Diligence of good Masters, and partly by the help of his own forwardness and wit. His Father, who hereat was well satisfied, determined after this his happy Progress, in that kind of Literature, to put him forth to some Trade or other, and in as much as he was in his Childhood very artificial at plating of hair, he judged it best to put him to a Perriwig-maker, as soon after he did to one at Brussels: Diomedes had no great Contentment in this trade, thinking himself never able to gain so much by it, as would answer his Pleasures, or to maintain him at such a rate as he desired to live in, at once to enjoy both plenty and ease.  
Scarcely was he arrived at the 14. Year of his age, before his Father got his Quietus est, and bad adieu to the World: and inasmuch as he lived a merry life, so it could not be supposed that he should leave much behind him, as he did not, save a Catalogue of Credit; which gave Diomedes little occasion of hopes to advance his future Fortune by his Patrimony: Yet still was he prompted with a groundless Opinion, as that something considerable might be reserved for him in the Cabinet of Chance, as usually is observable in many who are prone to judge according as they would willingly have it to fall out, and so was constant in considering with himself how he might quit that mean and irksome employment of his, and undertake some other course to bring him in a way to get riches, and live a splendid life. No measures he could imagine seemed better to like him than Merchandise, which he had often heard his Father speak of, who had consumed a considerable sum that way, by a negligent managament of his affairs therein: willing for that very reason to instruct his only son in some honest Mechanical Calling or other, as more stable and sure, though very much disagreeing with the inclination of the Youth.  
Amongst several Projects he devised, one he pitched upon, which without much loss of time he put in practice; For, upon a morning betimes he risen up, and going into the Shop he privately took six, or seven of the best Periwigs he could come at, which he put up. The evening before, he had expostulated very hard with his Master, to take one day's recreation or two, with some friends of his, who desired him to accompany them a little on their Journey, which after some earnest entreaties his Master atlast assented to, hoping according ●othe solemnity of his promise, he would return again in a day or two: But much on the contrary, for Diomedes took his last leave both of Master, Shop, Trade and Service, and came with all expedition to Amsterdam, with full intent to spend the remaining years of his youth there; And taking Antwerp in his way, he met with a good market for his goods, for he sold all his Periwigs there, save only one, which he kept for his own Noddle; and as soon as he came to Amsterdam, put himself into a suitable garb, purposing to apply himself to some Merchant or another, as by chance i● fell very opportunely out: For, after he had been there a few days, he accidentally fell into discourse with a Wine-Cowper which he met with in a Tavern: and after they had exchanged a few words he entered into an agreement with him for a certain sum of money, half of which he was to pay in hand, and that he should be instructed in that Mystery and Traffic, and during the time of his service to have his Diet and Lodging with his Master.  
This Merchant had an only daughter, called Aemilia, of a reasonable Stature, and a more than ordinary Beauty, which Diomedes took a great fancy for, though more for the circumstances of her purse than person; insomuch that he began to bend his study, how to please her; which (as he was himself sensible of) could not be with such ease accomplished, by one who had not an Estate to command, as some of his Corrivals had; however, hap hazard, he resolus to put the work in practice, and totally dedicated the sum of his inclinations to her, and under a colour of Virtue, Love and Fidelity he brought the business so far, that, he had fully insinuated himself into her favour, and began to assure himself that he would shortly become Master of her Estate. She manifested to him, by many mutual affirmations, a reciprocal kindness she had for him, and that nothing should obstruct the course of her affections, if he could but procure the Consent of her Father to the Making up of the Match, Diomedes, now reckoning the Town more than half Stormed, assumed the liberty shortly after to make the Overture and Proposals to her Father; though met with a Reply that put him into no small disorder, for she was absolutely denied him, and he threatened to boot that if ever he attempted the like afterward to be turned out into the wide world: Diomedes swore that this refusal should cost his Master dear, and that he would reward him with a recompense equivalent to this affront, cost what it would cost, as shortly after he was as good as his word: for,  
Among the fellowship our enraged Lover was wont to keep company with, was a young man, whose parents dealt much in Say't, whom Diomedes seeing, was thereupon put in mind of a notable revenge; and making use of his opportunity, he bartered with this youngman for two Barrels of Salt, giving him almost the value in wine, and the Overplus in money, The Salt thus bought, he had it privately conveyed into his master's Cellar, and poured into every Tun and Hogshead a competent quantity, so that the Wine seemed rather Brine than Juice of the Vine. No● long after the Merchant meeting with some customers, brought them home to give them a taste of some Wines he highly approved of; he whose turn it was to taste first took a swingeing draught, after which he was sensible that liquor was fit to provoke thirst than to quench it, cried out, what Devils drink have I got here in my mouth? surely this is fetched from Styx or Cocytus, or is it the piss of Cerberus, the dog of hell? Is this the wine you told of, Wine! Are these the Tears of Bacchus? sure his Godship has cried to think you have not given him his due, or lodged him here in the dark as not worthy of light; Nay Sir, keep this wine till Latter Lammas for me; believe me you may keep it yet a hundred; years before it will stink if you salted it at this rate. The Merchant himself was no less astonished, being almost besides himself, in meeting with so strange a Metamorphosis. The first thing he did was to examine his servant whence it came; but he, who was never at a stand for want of Impudence, gave him a resolute answer, That he knew not: Probably, added he, it may be a divine Blessing that is light upon you above all others that deal in Wine, when as they in these dead times are fain to keep their Wine so long till it gins to stink, but you are out of danger of yours, it being well tempered with Salt, which renders it a commodity not so easily damnified with keeping as theirs is. Hereat his Master was in such a fury, that if those honest Gentlemen, in whose presence it happened, had not stopped the course of his rage, he had sent him at one blow to Salute his Grandsire. The Master excusing himself in the best wise he could to his Customers, went to another Hogshead, which he found was no better than the first, and so on to every piece, one by one, but to his great astonishment found them all in the like pickle, being almost three Cellars full, and the best not worth a groat, where we will leave them to make their bargain.  
The same evening Diomedes went to three Labourers, who had helped him the day before to smuggle some Wines, gave'um four Ducatoons a man, and told them that his Master had ordered it for their former help and service, and that about a month after he would have the like occasion, and would give them the same wages, provided they would by writing acknowledge that that money was given them for their past service, and that they would serve him again for the like sum: Or if they were not contented so, only to give a discharge under their hands for the money received; which last was accepted: whereupon Diomedes returned to his Master, and boldly demanded his Daughter, the Master in a hot passion bade him be gone out of doors, or he would break his pate for him. Diomedes then to use the advantage he had against him, threatened to discover his Stealing of Custom, Excise, etc. if he would not give his assent to what he demanded; which the Master not much regarding but persisted still in his wont humour, at last got him worsted out of his house. Diomedes immediately went to an Officer of Justice (whose duty it is, here, to take notice of such Delinquents) and informed him about his Master's practice, signifying the like to the Farmers and Commissioners of the Impositions of wine, who ruminated his Cellars from end to end, and thoroughly examined the matter of the Labourers, that had been assisting in the running and conveyance of the Goods, adding well to the matter, by declaring upon what account they had received that money; which when they had thoroughly inspected found the Vintner tardy, as well from the clear Confession of those men who had received the Money as from the number of the Pieces of wine he had in his Cellar which he had never entered; insomuch that these Gravaminas requiring an Expiation too heavy for him to bear, was fain to retire, and leave his Counting house and Goods to the Mercy of the Officers and Farmers of the Impositions. Neither did he ommit to make Complaint against the wicked practice of Diomedes, in damnifying his wine with salt, demanding Justice against him, and satisfaction for the Injury received; whom when he began to look for, found that he had made his escape, and taken his dear daughter along with him, (being as it seems overswayed by the vigour of Love) and about five hundred Ducats of Gold, which he no sooner perceived but he fell into a strange Fit, in which he lay several hours before he came to himself. The loss not only of his Wine and Money, but also of his only Child and Reputation, brought him into a Consumption, which cast him just to deaths-door: Nevertheless, desiring before his death that his daughter should be enquired after: if possibly by the sight of her, and the restistitution of part of his Money, he might add a little to his Days; but finding no means to get her again, unless he would frankly forgive Diomedes, of those many crimes he was factious of, and so with his full consent ratify the Marriage between him and his daughter, he was forced to comply; and so accordingly they were called home, the Match in every point confirmed and the young Couple received into their Father's house and Favour; although the Father notwithstanding all that Physicians could prescribe or apply expired his utmost; and left Diomedes in full Possession of his Estate, which was no small cause of Joy to him. After the decease and Interment of the old man, Diomedes mourned Court fashion, not in a purple weed, but in making many Jovial hours, every day holiday and good cheer, leaving the direction and management of his Merchandise of wines (which he still continued) to the care of two servants of his, who served him as faithfully as ever he did his Master before him.  
Neither was it indeed possible for Diomedes to leave the tricks he had learned of his Master, or Father in law: Nay, he esteemed it a sin to pay full Excise for his Goods; being ever ready to accommodate and deal with those that had a mind to smuggle; and that not only with persons of the meanest rank, but also with the most eminent in the Town, some through an insatiable desire they had to wine, others who out of Generosity were so liberal to good fellowship and acquaintance, as that they were ashamed that it should be known at the Excise Office what wine they consumed. Diomedes considering this, played upon the other hand, and made a mixture of his Wines with water.  
The old woman had not sought her daughter in the Oven had she not been there herself; a proverb as true as ancient: Diomedes knowing himself never too guilty of Fidelity, must needs sometimes harbour and entertain some suspicion of the like deportment from his men, which even now have the same opportunities he had once himself; his Jealousy moved him to come upon them at unawars for several times one after another, but finding no ground for his Jealousy, he from thence forward reposed more confidence in them than before, thinking for a certainty they did not transgress their Duty.  
It happened on a time when he had occasion to deliver some Wines, which having brought into Lighters, before they came to the Boom (or Water-bar) it was locked, so that they could not get through to the stream, and were fain for that night to keep aboard the Lighters and watch the Wines. This opportunity fell out very well for the servants, who invited four or five of their fellows to bouse a glass with them, who made not many refusals; so to it they went and were all equally paid off before the Sun risen, and although the Tuns were without Cocks or Spiggots, yet to supply that defect they made use of their Crane or Pipe, wherewith they of that Mystery are wont to exhaust wine out of Casks, and made use of their hats till about midnight, when they found 2 or 3 foul glasses, which they rinsed and made use of: these were in a perpetual motion till the morning began to appear and commanded their dissolution, and each to do his duty, although they were fit to go to bed by far. When the Water-bar was open, they went forth in good order, but whither they knew not; till at last one of'em espied a ship riding off in the stream, ready to set sail, concluded absolutely that that was the ship ordained to take in the Wine; and so one of them called out, Oho, the Fly boat, Ehey they aboard the ship saluted them with the like voice, and asked what they would have; We have brought here the Wine (quoth one of them) that our Master, Mons. de Lebechea, was to send aboard you, pray let us be discharged with the first, for we must be back again with all expedition. The Master of the ship seeing the Gentlemen between Hawk and Bussard, and so much wine presented him without the freight, he pitied them and took in the Present, and presently after both wind and weather favouring he sit sail for the Texel, in Order to proceed on his voyage, and let the lighter and men find the way home. The men that were aboard the ship being all English, save the Master himself, thought that it was some Merchandise he had bought for himself, not well understanding the Netherdutch Language. But to return back again with the Lighter and guide them home; Diomedes seeing his men in such a pickle began to fear all was not well. He asked them on what ship they had delivered; they told him aboard the Engglish ship that lay (ready to set sail) off in the stream; being neither able to give any better description of the ship, or what she had in her stern. Hereat Diomedes was in such a passion that nothing could appease him, though all to no purpose; he went immediately to the New bridge with his men, and with a pair of Oars went to inquire of all the ships, that lay before the pales of Amsterdam, where he found nothing more than what he lest sought; continuing still railing against his men who were in a condition fit to take a nap, needing neither Diacodium nor Opium for a provocative. At last Diomedes seeing an English Catch, he made towards her and very bluntly asked them about the Wine they took in that Morning, and whether it belonged to them: The men swore they had not taken in any wine: Diomedes overswayed by his Fury jumped out of the boat and aboard he went, bidding the Master to show what goods he had aboard, or he would brand him for a Rogue, and show what he had to do with him. The Englishman not a whit behind him, began to threaten him as fast, and told him that for his uncivility he would not resolve him in his doubt, but as he had Stigmatised him under the mark of a Rogue he would breaks the pate of the Rogue that said it: To be sho● the words on both ●ides rose to that height, that they fell together by the Ears, and the Englishman with the help of his men gave Diomedes a gentle toss overboard to cool his Passion. the Ferryman seeing this, made all the hast he could to take Diomedes up, concluding then for a certainty that the Wine must be in that Vessel, & in that persuasion went in all haste to the Water-bailiff, to whom he made a large complaint, how the English man had taken in his wines, and abused him, etc. Whereupon the Gentleman went with Diomedes, who if he had given way to what Diomedes urged and averred, would have taken the English man into Custody. The Bailiff coming aboard the Vessel asked them if they had taken in any wine? requiring them to show what they had aboard: They made answer, That they were not obliged to show what they had aboard, adding that they were not under any duty or engagement to give them an account whether they had taken any wine aboard or no; that it concerned not them if they had, for what they had was paid for, &c, These words made Diomedes the more suspicious, absolutely thinking himself in the right, together with what his men did affirm, that it must needs be that, and no other vessel, hereupon the Officer took the Master into Custody, at the Charge of Diomedes, who took it upon him, and bringing him ashore committed him close prisoner. But shortly after the English Master brought in a clear Exhibition, when, where and of whom he had bought the Wine, and that it was paid for, with which the Court were fully satisfied, and so granting him Enlargement, he was at liberty again; condemned also Diomedes in 300 gilders damage, for hindering the ship on her Voyage, and for reparation of the credit of the Master whom he had so disgraced, by imprisoning him; which Fine was distributed in 3 parts, one part for the Aggrieved party, another for the Schout, or City Bailif, and a third to the use of the Poor: he was further ordered by the Court to pay all the Charges, which besides the great loss of wine that brought him to this inconveniency, he was perplexed now more than ever, threatening his men to lay all to their reckoning, and place it to their account; but finding they did not much value his threatening, and that he could not help himself much, he was fain to rest contented, and now and then wash away sorrow with a glass of wine.  
Emilia his wife coming to hear of the business, was greatly dissatisfied, and could no longer enjoy herself so long as this Course of life was held: she continually twitted him in the teeth with these things, ascribing the cause of all these misfortunes to his negligence and carelessness, many times repeating the great likelihood there was of their being brought to poverty and ruin, if he continued in Junketting and Company keeping; lamenting her direful fate, and the unhappy hour that she first saw him: assuring him for the future that in case he would not attend his business with more diligence, she would never own, or regard him as her husband: and follow what courts she liked best; but Diomedes, who was well acquainted with such Tempests, took not much to heart what she said, but on the contrary, from that time forward haunted Taverns and Gaming more than ever, where day and night he passed away his time, playing some times for 20 or 30 Ducats a throw, insomuch that he used to come home not only monyless but also without Cloak, Gloves or Cravat, to the unspeakable grief of his Wife, and detriment of his whole Family.  
Besides all this he had a custom to change his servants, whom now and then he would Chide and turn away for their negligence, takeing new in their place, amongst which he met with one Salvatius, to whom Aemilia took a great liking and fancy; and could have found in her heart to transgress with him; loving him better than her husband, and ever studious how to please him; which he presently began to smell out and perceive: so that in process of time he sought his Opportunity, and undauntedly made the attempt to bring her to his will, which she (without the least opposition) gave way to, rendering herself prostitute▪ and freely imparted what she had to him, No sooner was Diomedes abroad but they were at their sport, and never out of Town but they were a Junketting together, without having respect either to Money, Virtue, or Reputation.  
It chanced once that Diomedes had occasion to go for Rotterdam, to direct some business he had there then depending in dispute; hereupon Emilia (glad to see his backside) made a noble banquet to her men and their Companions: not sparing money or pains to prepare this Collation, which was made up of the best delicacies, as Pheasants, Partridges, Pullet's, Geese, Turkeys, Ha●es, Rabbits, and what not; each dressed after sundry manner: during the Banquet was good plenty of Sherry and Rhenish wines, or what sort the guests were pleased to call for: after all several dishes of Comfits and Sweetmeats: so that nothing was dreamed on, but Eat, drink and play and every opinion condemned save that of Epic●rus. When the meal was over, and they had recreated themselves with playing, dancing and kissing, they unanimously resolved to go all to bed, and take their ease a little etc. Hereupon the Blades began to mi 〈…〉 themselves with the Gentlewomen all in a body, and blowing out the candles, every one catches by guess whom he could meet with by the hand, went each into a chamber apart, and what they committed there (if Bacchus had not cheated Venus of her due) becomes us rather to leave it to your conjecture, than to pronounce it any plainer.  
Emilia with her Paramour, like another Venus with her Mars, feared that angry Vu 〈…〉 can was come indeed to catch her in her transgression. Her thoughts thus wand'ring and she almost bereft of sense, ra 〈…〉 with her bon Companions along the street, the most sensible of 'em all scar 〈…〉 knowing whither; every one naked to the shirt and smock. Here one complained how his thighs smarted with the stripes he got; there another complains he feels huge blisters begin to rise upon his back and shoulders; a third kept a clattering with his teeth by reason of his coming out of an imagined Hell, into the extreme cold air, being in the winter season; a fourth n 〈…〉 less tormented in his conscience than of body, fearing a perpetual scandal if they should be taken so, not knowing wha● excuse to make to palliate the verity of the matter: nor was it any time to stand there, for the day approached; nor had any 〈◊〉 them the courage to return into the house oh 〈…〉 Emilia; the Gentlewomen were married, and they durst not go home in that dress, and the young men either lodgers, or with their parents, so that they could not find it the best advice to go home; But wha● must they do? Every minute adds to time. It will not be long before it will be day, people will presently be going about their respective businesses, and the Cock gins to proclaim the morn to the world. Emilia was hereat in such a consternation, that if she had not been hindered by her company, would have thrown herself headlong into the Haven. At last one of them remembered that she had a Niece, or Cousin who lived alone with a maid, and that she had good hopes of coming in there, without much noise or discovery: And indeed this liked them all, so that they went all together to the said house, which was little less than half a mile, and so knocked at the door several times, before any answer was made: at last the maid comes to the door and demanded who was there; which when she perceived who it was, opened the door; The Gentlewoman, who was the only one that had acquaintance there, asked her, if her Mistress was within; She replied, Yes; desiring farther, that she would please to pay her visit the next day, withal telling her, that her Mistress was not very well disposed, and had been above 3. or 4. hours in bed: but all in vain for being excited with the cruel torments of the cold, and impatience to tarry there any longer, one of them pushed open the door in order to go in, and seconded by another, was followed by all the rest; the maid knowing then for a certain who it was, and that no better would be, went grumbling in, and told her Mistress that her cousin was there, with some other company, and urged mightily to speak with her. The Gentlewoman immediately slips on her nightgown, and bad the maid, to light a candle, and bring it to the door, for they were all this while in the dark: which she did; and was hardly got into the shop but seeing Ten or twelve women, and 3 or 4 men all in their shirts & smocks (as was said) she out of very fear lets the candle drop, and away out of door, half naked; thinking that it had been many, Ghosts so or that there was some Exorcism in the case.  
Mrs Magdalen (for that was the Gentlewoman's name) hearing this noise was astonished at it; yet although she was indeed by nature a little timorous, she resolves to go down and see what was the matter. And so taking a candle in her hand she makes toward the stairs which led down to the shop, and seeing there a whole Chorus of persons in their surplices, was worse affrighted, than the maid, and immediately fell down in a swound. The naked company seeing what had happened, made the work as short as they could, went in themselves to light a candle, and came back again to do what they could for the Patient, whom they found in a lamentable Fit, and besides her the Abortive fruits of a miscarriage, wholly dead. Immediately they went about, seeking in every corner and cupboard for Vinegar, by the use of which they brought her to herself again, and made a shift to lay her upon the bed which was yet warm, and covered her very well. The Gentlewoman who still in a weak condition, as one that is but newly brought a-bed, begun to get a little more heart; and requested of them, that they would be so free as to let her know the ground of the matter, and what was the cause, of this their being in such a posture and condition, which they to satisfy her curiosity begin to relate, in manner as we have already told you, without the least cohibition of any point, either out of fear or shame; which done they crept to bed again together, taking each of them what sheets, ruggs and blankets they could get, to keep'um warm: though not in manner as before: For the women looking upon this as a divine piece of Justice for their Gild, resolved not to engage any more with their Paramours, but made a separation, and so kept themselves at a distance, but could not close their eyes together all the night; here we shall leave them and return to the rest of their company.  
Those that were left behind, as we said before, were by the horrible sight of such monsters fallen aswound, upon the floor in Diomedes his house, and by this time (as awakened from a dream) were come to themselves, they rising up began to parley among themselves, what this might be; concluding they were in the suburbs of Hell, and so began to strengthen each other in that conceit, the more easily to be effected in regard of the apparition which was still very fresh in their thoughts. Each one began to confess their bad life, and condole the sad punishment that would follow, and the penalty they must undergo, and yet not sufficient for an expiation for their wickedness. At last one who seemed the greatest sag● among them argued on the contrary, and s● discussed the thing in suspense. For (said he▪ it is evident and agreed by all, that Hell is▪ place so hot, that none can endure the heat and here you see we tremble for cold, muc● less likely is it that we are dead: nor yet i● it probable that we are in heaven, for o 〈…〉 bodies and souls are united, have a co 〈…〉 junct power and faculty of motion, so th●● what has happened has been merely a dream or some Deceptio visûs. They with th●● toupe courage, & rising up began to h 〈…〉 up and down the house for Emilia, and the rest of the Company, but could not hear or see either young or old, whereupon they put on their  and went out into the streets to seek them, but not being able to find them, they concluded that it was some special Judgement indeed, that had befallen them; that the rest were hurried out of the World, and they only left for an example to the race of mankind. After a second and a third Consultation they returned to the place from whence they came (to wit) the house of Diomedes, big with expectation what the ●ssue of this calamity would be.  
The day drew on, when Diomedes before the time expected returned home; having casually met with the Gentleman, with whom he had to do, by the way, and so in a trice dispatched his affairs; he knocks at the door, and the Company within overjoyed, thinking it might be some of their Mates, opened the door; but quite Contrary, it proved Diomedes; who seeing a Stranger, or two come to the door, was greatly surprised not knowing what to say, or think, they were one whit behind him, possessed now with a second horror; He began to ask for his wife, but none had the courage to answer; but ran away like so many mice upon the sight of a Cat. Diomedes seeing this, caught one of the women about the middle, and threatened her so long, till she detected the whole passage, Which he hearing could hardly believe, being very confident in the honesty of his Consort, who feigned the greatest loyalty, that chastity could think on; evermore behaving herself as a modest Matron in his presence.  
The  he took, and locked them safely up, and the remainder of the company he secured in a room, where he was confident they were fast enough, with all imaginable patience expecting the coming of his wife who was said to be ravished by Pluto, which he did not once relent, as Cynane of old did at the ravishing of Proserpina; Probably fearing with her to be changed into a fountain, where his second self might purify her of her filthy stains.  
Emilia and her company rising the next morning, witted not how they should deport themselves. The Abortive fruit of Mrs: Magdalen they committed secretly to the Earth, lest it might be the occasion of a rumour, not thinking that the wind was powerful enough to drive the Scandal through the World, or that their Neighbourhood by an inquisitive Curiosity sh●ould (like Midas in days of yore, with his Ass' ears) discover the truth, though never so artificially palliated. Whilst they were in a great quandary▪ not able to invent any mean how they might go to the house of Diomedes, whence they came, and where their  were: at last they resolved to stay there till it was night again, and so with Blankets, Rugs and Coverlets to go thither; which they did, and not without great terror, fearing again to meet with some horrible infernal Daemon, as indeed they met with that which was as good, namely, Diomedes with a pair of eyes as fierce as those of a lion, glowing with very fury in instead of an amorous complexion. Emilia thus meeting with another surprisal, had not a word to say: f●● where she was not a war of what would befall her, she had not the occasion to premeditate an Apology, but instead of welkoming him home from his 4 days Journey, she attempted to run out again; but he seeing that, shut the door, so that no way was left for her to escape thedireful effects of his fu●y: and partly out of shame she could no longer endure his presence, but made toward the parlour where the rest were, he willingly let her in and ●ockt the door, leaving them to their secret Consults. Diomedes in the mean while repairs to the husbands of the Women he had in his Parlour, and told'um respectively; he had a bargain of fair Beasts to sell, which were ready for slaughter, and stall-fed; adding that as he had got a good bargain by them, that he was willing to oblige a friend in a pennyworth again, presenting them for Twenty Florins a head, and pick and Choose, only one he had a mind to himself, assuring them that the remainder, should be better than so many of the best kine in Amsterdam. The Gentlemen were unanimously resolved to see the beasts, he presented to sale, willing to disburden him of such a bargain, went along with him home to see them. When the Chapman was about to open the door, he gave each man a truncheon, and told them they were something unruly, and that such an implement might stand'um in some stead, and shows them a whole set of Canonics in their Stoles. See Here, Gentlemen (quoth he These are the Beasts I told you of, and although they have no HORNS, yet are so practical that they can make invisible ones. The Merchants who little expected such a stage should be exhibited at the drawing of a scene, were horribly perplexed twixt Stupor and rage, some not knowing their wives, being not attired in their usual dress, and wonderfully disfigured, with weeping, want of sleep, and so many terrible rescontres they had met with. While they were abashd at the suddenness of the spectacle, Diomedes broke the silence, told the whole passage through, from the beginning to the end, and brought them out of the doubt they were in; so that it was not possible for the poor captives to deny any thing, the case and matter being so probable and palpably evident. One or two of them knowing (perhaps) the mild disposition of their husbands fell down upon their bare knees, earnestly and humbly begging that they would vouch▪ safe in clemency to pardon this great and heinous misdemeanour, but all to no purpose, for their fury was not so easily appeased. Each man in a great fume began to make use of his cudgel, and laid about till they were weary, their Wives still crying out Forgiveness! Forgiveness! Others not satisfied with that way, went to the Schout (or Minister of Justice) who alike committed them all to Prison; which was more acceptable to them, than to lie at the mercy of their merciless husbands. The Officer thus taking care for the Offending parties, the men went home with great contrition for what had passed, and never enjoyed their usual contentment till they had got themselves divorced from their wives, which after some solicitations they procured. Diomedes being sensible that if he parted with his wife, he must according to law, part with his whole Estate and Goods, choosed rather to accept of the promise of reformation she tendered him, and her engagement, to bequeath all she had in the World to him, at her death.  
Diomedes thus quit of his servants shortly supplied himself with others, whom he instructed in his Mystery, but principally to make Beverage, which he made to pass for Wine: and so docible they were, that they quickly had the knack of it, so that they begun to have as good a trade on't as, he himself; using the same way of dealing which he did, when he lived with his Father in Law, to sell it out by pottles and pints. Of which they made no small profit, ever supplying the defects with aqua coelestis.  
Every day Trading began to decay, and Gaming to Flourish; so that in short time after he found himself uncapable to continue the Trade any longer, or to satisfy all his Creditors, who daily pestered him. Willing enough he was to pay, but often, times he was out of Cash, and could not endure to be duned; which his wife observing how hard they were put to it, began to grow very pensive and melancholi●, perceiving that she had seen her best days already, and that there was no more hopes of ever coming to her pristine state. The Proverb is true, Poverty puts a man to his s●ifts; in him it is remarkably verified, for he began to make use of his wits to study how he might redress his decaying condition, by some means or other. His Cellars were as empty of Wine, as his Coffers were of Money, and he thought it was high time for him to seek remedy for his Credit which lay in its last pangs, at last he found out a project he thought might cast the balance. On a morning betimes he went to a Ship-carpenter, with whom he had some small acquaintance, and desired to view 3 new Ships he had built for sale. The Carpenter glad he had got a customer for his Ships, went with him, and showed him them all over, and after a few words struck a bargain with him for all three, for 70 thousand Gilders; and accordingly Writings were drawn, specifying the sum and manner of pay meant, which was to be upon 3 May days: The Builder who did not question his sufficiency, let him have the ships without the  scruple which he cheerfully took into possession.  
Having got these three ships into Possession, he, by the help of some Brokers sold two of them, and the third sold out to Partners reserving an eighth part to himself, so that he was speedily supplied with money, and in a capacity to bring up his Quota, in order to the fitting out that whereof he was in part Owner, as in the Spring following she undertook a Voyage to Spain.  
The next thing he took care for, was how he might employ this money to the best advantage; To buy wines and supply his decaying stock, he thought was not the best course; since he had got such a bad fame of compounding it with Water, a Temperament the buyers thought, was fittest for themselves to do at their own discretion, when occasion served; insomuch that he was glad to sell off the most part of his Wines, for a very mean price, to those who made Vinegar of it. Amongst 12 Hogsh eads of French wine, he had one of passing good Rhenish: these being kept till the last, it just happened that a Vintner living at Leyden came to buy some wines, and casually lighting upon him was content to taste of his Rhenish: he brought him into his Cellar which was very dark, and gave him a taste of that one Hog's head of Rhenish, pressing him to drink it off, after he had sipped a little; which done he drew another from the same pretending to have drawn it from the next Hogshead, and so a third glass; the Vintner (who had been all the day at this work) had a conceit that their might be some distinction in the  property of the wine, yet concluded them to be all equally good. Diomedes, seeing the Vintner between Hawk and Buzzard, pressed him to drink off his glass, which done, cries, Good Sir, let me give you of another, the Vintner, seeing a certain kind of Generosity in his Chapman, more than a Willingness to put off his wines, rescountred his courtesy with a declining of his kind offer, said, No, no, Sir, I am well satisfied, the wine is of a good body, and likes me well, & your person more, But now as to the price— Diomedes here interrupting him, to push home the matter, began to commend the wine, protesting he did not intent it should be sold to any that sold it again, when he bought it at Cologn, etc. But willing to do him a kindness, he was content to let him have it, hoping afterward to have the Honour and Fortune to receive some of his Money, for this or the like merchandise, This done, the Vintner makes agreement with him, sends his wine home by the Market boat, and (according to their agreement) paid him a third of the money in hand, and the residue he promised to pay at the expiration of 3 months: which made Diomedes smile in his sleeve, to think how he had g●ll'd the credulous Vintner.  
Not long after the Vintner, having dispatched his affairs abroad, returns home, and meeting by the way, near the Town, some of his customers, persuades, them to go home with him and taste ●ome of his wines he had bought; they were content; and the Vintner himself tasting first, met with four French wine more like Verjuice than wine, knew not what to think; recollecting his memory, woulds need persuade himself he dreamed, supposing of a certain it could not be the Wine he tasted and bought at Amsterdam; but afterwards coming to taste the rest, and finding one only good, began to smell the cheat, ran in all haste to Amsterdam, almost blind with Passion, and finding out the house of Diomedes, knocks at the door two or three times before the maid could come at it. Diomedes hearing so many thunderclaps one after another, feared at lest a shower would follow, he ordered the maid with a wink (as he was wont to do) to deny his being within, and so she did; but the Vintner having a strong opinion it was a little too early for him to be abroad, or thinking perhaps he was not willing to be disturbed of his sleep, said to the maid, Prithee sweetheart, tell him I must needs speak with him, my name is K●oonbergen (who was a great familiar of Diomedes) the silly wench, not knowing how to manage the business well, turned about and said, I shall Sir, coming again, he asked the maid, What her master said, Really sir, (quoth she) he says he's not within; which was enough to suspect his being within, and after a little urging to no purpose at all, he found that Diomedes had seen a Wolf through the Chinks; and was for that time notcomeatable, he posts away to some other places in the City, where he had business, which being dispatched, he comes timely to the Exchange, where with great patience he expected the coming of his Chapman, About 12. a clock (when the Gates are shut, and none suffered to enter till after one, without 6. d. to the poor) he spied Diomedes, thronging in, amongst a great crowd of Merchants, made forward to meet him, and lest he should lose him catches him fast by the middle & throngs up with him. Diomedes finding himself so kindly embraced, was in a deep study, how to rid him of his companion, and come off with credit: at last finding the man would not let him go, began to cry out, A thief, A thief, a Pickpocket; the man still holding by the coat, which Diomedes had cunningly twisted, and so fastened his hand that if he would, he could not have got clear; At this noise the Rabble, together with all the Boys, began to flock about the Vintner, who to his misery was thus entangled, some pelting him with rotten Oranges, others calling him Rogue, Rascal, Pickpocket, and made such a noise that it was impossible for the Captive to be heard in his own defence, seemingly taken in ip●o facto. Diomedes seeing himself now well, turned him over to the Mobile; some kicking him, others pelting him till he staggered again, continually crying, Thief, Thief: which at last the Schout (or Constable) having notice on, was put in mind of his Duty, together with his Assistants rushed in, and freed the poor caitiff from the rude rout, who thought then he had been at liberty again, but much mistaken, for the Schout commanded one of his Waiters, to tie him with the chain, which he did, and marched very orderly with him to prison, with a retinue of boys; nor would any Apology or vindication he could make for his innocency help or persuade the Schout, to consider the matter a little, but was committed to the dungeon, where he was almost out of his senses with Passion, swearing to be revenged on the knave Diomedes.  
Diomedes thus rid of his Customer was hearty glad, believing this good fortune to proceed from the influence of his kind Stars, and that the Heavens had blessed him above all others, with their continual Providence and Protection, so that he might rest secure under their Patronage, under which he was never likely to miscarry; through which persuasion he resolved to live in stately wise, to yield the reins to his affections, and never deny himself any thing that might add to his pleasure, and the free enjoyment of a voluptuous & libidinous life, and returning home, began to consider what course or practise he might next take in hand that might be proficient to his determined end.  
Shortly after it happened, that a certain Merchant came to give Diomedes a , for the payment of some money; which had been long due upon the delivery of some wines, having often urged the payment, but was still put off, began now to show great impatience vowing if he would not immediately tender the money he would send him a summons. Diomedes finding he could no longer defer the payment of this money, and weighing the matter with himself, did foresee that if this one Creditor should be as good as his word, it would be the laying of a bridge for the rest to pass over; which might be the ready path to bring him to ruin: Diomedes prayed him to come the next day at night, avouching his sincere intentions to pay him the whole sum. The Merchant, willing to make trial once more of the Fidelity of his promises, goes home and returns at the time appointed. Diomedes, who was evermore greedy of revenge, had in the mean while provided two Ruffian's, to whom he had given instructions, to dance attendance in a dark waist place near his house, till a certain Merchant (whom he described to them) should pass by, whom they might assail and take the mo●eys he was to have received. The Ru●●ians very glad of so fair an opportunity promised not only to, keep counsel, but forthwith to put themselves in good order, and the project in Practice, and accordingly they did at the hour appointed. The merchant, not willing to give Diomedes, the lest opportunity to excuse himself for any negligence on his part, comes at the time prefixed, receives the Money and taking his leave of Diomedes with a light heart and a heavy purse (the sum being about 2300. gilders) he departs homeward, but being passed about ten houses from that of Diomedes, he was assaulted by two persons, who violently grasping him by the collar, and clapping each man a naked Poniard to his breast, bade him deliver, swearing by Heaven, that if he made the least resistance, or offered to cry out, they'd push home. The Merchant thus surprised not daring so much as open his mouth to dispute the matter with them, was fain to deliver, and glad he had redeemed his life, that lay at stake, at so easy a rate. These villains having thus got their spoil, betrayed their trust in what they had under a solemn Oath promised to Diomedes, thinking it better to departed in peace, with the prey they had then in possession, than to present it to Diomedes, and stand to his Generosity for a reward of such a perilous enterprise, so that notwithstanding his expectation of them (who value no more the Violation of an oath than the perpretation of such a villainy) he was disappointed. The next day came the merchant to Diomedes, not only with a design to tell him the misfortune that befell him (his jealousy prompting him to fix a suspicion on Diomedes as the original cause thereof) but to make what observation he could in the face of Diomedes, when he related what had passed; but Diomedes who well provided with a premeditated manner of behaviour, and thorough paced in such things, acted Innocent better than Innocent himself could have done, and feigning himself greatly surprised and grieved to hear the thing rehearsed, sometimes pitying the Patient of so great a loss, other times railing against the Villains with many Exclamations. Miserable men (quoth he to the Merchant) that for the enjoyment of so mean a portion of earthy Mammon, will hazard the ruin of Body and Soul! who for the poor benefits of the pelf of this world will endanger, themselfves to dwell in everlasting Burn! Sad infidels! who without the least respect to Heaven, and the Future state of the Pious, will rather for a trifle accompany Devils in perpetual Darkness and Torments; But alas what shall we say! men will take no warning at the punishment they daily see with their outward and carnal eyes, how should they then take example at what is threatened, which they because of unbelief and hardness of heart can not spiritually behold? With these and the like Palliations, and Hypocritical ejaculations, he so blinded the Merchant, that he could not in the least imagine him either conscious or factious in the Robbery: But on the contrary with great satisfaction, as to the Innocency of Diomedes, he returned home to acquaint himself in the best wi●e he could with Patience.  
Emilia sometimes perceiving the falsdealing of her Husband, was greatly dejected and sorrowful, weighing the bad issue which usually follows, and attends such dishonest Practices, would of●en ferr and instance several examples hereof to him, comparing his course of life, to divers of late times, that meritoriously received a condign punishment for their unjust actions: Yet all this was but charming of the Adder! Diomedes knew his wife was but a Woman, a creature as timorous as he himself was temerous: he resolves still to persist in filthy lucre, and to accumulate moneys got per fas, aut nefas, by hook or crook, all equally just to him; ever delighting himself with an Epicurean life, and endeavouring to fulfil his sensual appetite, as to what might serve to recreation in that kind. The more Emilia seemed to reprove and admonish him, the worse he was, and frequented Taverns, Houses of Game and other consumptive places more than ever, usually twitting her in the teeth of her former misbehaviour, as a reward for her kind exhortations; insomuch that she seeing no hopes of ever redressing his life, or her estate, she took it so to heart that the very same malady, which seized and wasted the good Gentleman, her Father, took hold of her, as a just Judgement for her, that she who had (by her disobedience to him) brought him to such an end, should be afflicted and scourged with the like chastisement. The Marriage, which she in the time of her Father's great affliction, would force him to the consent of, and that too with the greatest Foe he had upon earth; now gnawed more upon her conscience, that ever it grieved the mind of her deceased Parent. During the time of her consumption Diomedes the better to delight himself with others, severed himself wholly from her, both at Bed and Boar. Which unkind do being now and then reprehended for, as a great note of his inhumanity, his reply would be That it was a Venereal distemper she was quelled with, as a Judgement upon her for her lose life; endeavouring to implant in them some apprehensions of Verity, by the rehearsal of that well known misbehaviour before related, thinking with such a palpable instance to add sufficiently to their faith, who notwithstanding all that, did not prove so credulous, very sensible of his bad and churlish demeanour towards her. This continually increasing the grief of Emilia so often as she heard it, at last brought her to her fatal Catastroph '; her lingering sickness finally arrived with her at the Banks of death, which happy arrival was no small cause of Joy to Lebechea, her unworthy husband. She was no sooner buried, but he caused all her  to be carried out and sold, thereby thinking to obliterate the very memory of her, lest at any time it should prove an obstruction to his mirth. He as was before mentioned, without any Coheir according to the virtue of an irrevocable Instrument of Conveyance, kept all her Estate in his hands, which rendered him the more capable to enter upon a second match.  
Upon a time Diomedes resolving to make a Journey from Amsterdam to the Hague, to see if he could meet with any lucky bargain, for which end he changed about 5000. gilders into Gold, for levity sake: pursuant to his intended Journey, goes into the boat; where he was no sooner sitten down, but he espied a Merchant coming in all haste towards the boat, with two Thief-catchers (so called from their Office) and being conscious of a prank he himself had played that Merchant, (which hereafter shall be mentioned) suspected that he was the man they aimed at, was at first at a stand how to avoid the danger that he was in, but looking about he sees a great many of the Rabble, made use of the present means he had, cried out, See Gentlemen, there comes a great Varlet, an Informer, a fellow that has nothing in the world to live on but what he gets from the Commissioners of the Excise by trepanning of honest men; A rascal that would swear his soul to the Devil for a dollar, 'tis a wonder such vagabonds are not torn in pieces by well meaning persons, or how dare such notorious villains appear in the presence of so many honest Gentlemen, as are here, about their respective businesses, to and again? These words which you may rest assured he did not smother, or whisper, were immediately taken notice of by the Rabble, (who are as implicitly incensed at the very name o● an Informer, as the Jews are at the commemoration of Haman) kept an eye o● him and seeing him make toward Diomedes, interposed themselves and would not suffer him, to lay hands on him; h● who knew he had Justice on his side 〈◊〉 began to push forward, but finding himself opposed, began to lay about, which the Rabble feeling the smart of, held it f●●● a lawful occasion to fall upon him, a●● they unanimously did, and pommel him at such a rate that he thought h● should there have expired his last, o● tearing his Plush cloak, another fast ni●● by his Point di Veneza band, a third ma●● sure his Periwig and Beaver: n●r we●● they satisfied with this, for after they hi● anointed him with kennel muck, they to●● him by head and heels, and threw him in●● the water, leaving him there to shift for hi● self, and crawl out as he could, every one that were factious and had a hand in the matter stealing away one by one, till none was left, but only a few spectators which were left to comfort him with many bitter revile and curses, he all this while not sensible of the reason of this inhuman usage; nor had the Thief-catchers been behind hand with him who suspecting he had a wrong sow by the tail, thought it not safe to stay there much longer, ran away and saved their Lamb-pie till another time. Diomedes who himself had been a Spectat or of this scene in part, sped him on his Journey, whom we will post after, and leave the Merchant in the Condition he's in.  
Diomedes that night arrived in the Hague, and was lodged in a Gentleman's house, whom for this time we will name Leopoldus; he being a person on whom Fortune ever smiled, and one who had married and met with a good match, which rendered him as to his private contentment, more happy than the greatest part of men. His principal Affairs were the Concerns of the East-India Company, and Actions; of which Diomedes was sensible, and consequently hatched a notable Project, to his own advantage, which was thus: Diomedes coming to this Gentleman, accosted him on this wise Sir, I have been informed that some few days since you had the misfortune to lose a bag of Gold, as I think it a duty incumbent upon me, so I assume the boldness and freedom to let you know, it was my hap to meet with it, which without either expectation of a reward, or diminishing of the smallest piece of coin, I humbly tender it to You, to whom it indisputably belongs. Leopoldus observing a true example of an upright heart, could not but return him a very courteous reply, said, Sir, I thank you for your kindness, but certainly I have not lost one farthing I know of. Diomedes who knew the Gentleman's integrity, that he was not so barkbound for money as to lay claim to any thing which was not his own by a just Title, began to showhimself highly concerned; wishing the Party to whom it belonged might have it restored him again, although it were Fifty-Crowns loss to him himself, declaring how loath he was to detain any man's right from him, or to keep what was not truly his own. This ended he brought in new discourse, amongst which he began to relate how that the day before, he had bought some Leases, to about the value of 30000 gilders, as willing to dispose of his money that way, not knowing how to employ it otherwise; with one showing some sealed Instruments of writing which seemed to be Leases, as also an Acquitrance, whereby was confessed the receipt of 30000 gl. by the supposed Transporter, or Seller, desiring Leopoldus he would vouchsafe to have the goodness to keep them till he came that way again, for that he judged it not safe for him to send them home to the Maid, with whom alone he kept house: nor yet to take them with him to Brussel, whither he was intended; considering the many perils and danger of Robberies he was liable to, on such a Journey; adding that he was in some haste, and could not have the leisure to go & visit a very intimate friend he had in the Hague, on whom he might otherwise impose that trouble; and that an Uncle of his lay on his death bed at Brussels, who intended to be queath the most part of his Estate to him, if he arrived there before his Decease. Leopoldus although credulous enough to believe what he said for a certain truth, yet he was very unwilling to admit of things of that nature into his custody, declined the matter with great earnestness, excusing his refusing to comply with such things, etc. till Diomedes promised to seal them up all together in a Box. The Gentleman upon that offered to give him a Writing or Obligation to redeliver such a Box. Diomedes thanked him, but would not accept of an Obligation, saying it was not necessary to bring that tronble upon him reposing great confidence and fidelity in Monsr: Leopoldus, not fearing to receive any disadvantage in the least by him, but deeming them as safe, as if they were in his own Chest under a hundred locks. The morning being come, and Diomedes making himself ready, sore against his will took his leave of Seigneur Leopoldo, feigning great haste, departs: but instead of going to Brussels, he went directly for Rotterdam, when there was a very pleasant Mansion house to be sold, situate near Haarlem, in which Diomedes had a great liking, and determines to purchase it, without counting the cost, or weighing the value of the money that so unnecessary a thing as a Country Summer-dwelling might come to stand him in.  
Arriving at Rotterdam he forthwith applies himself to the Sale, where hearing the Conditions read; he understood that it was to be paid at 3 several payments, each payment at the expiration of six months, one after another, which pleased him well, and the better to bring his purpose to effect, he took with him 2 or 3▪ Gentlemen, into whose acquaintance he had subtly insinuated himself, under the notion of one of the most eminent Merchants in Amsterdam, which they also believed by some circumstantial words he negligently seemed to let fall: these Gentlemen he entreated to assist him herein, being (as he made them believe (come thither to no other purpose than to purchase that Countryhouse, praying further the kindness of them that if they refused to pass it over to him without ready money, in default of knowledge, they would be so kind, as to be his Security, which they were free to do.  
When the Sale began, Diomedes watched his bacon, and bad at a round rate, being all the while the leading man; at last got the bargain, and a Good Luck to boot; promising to perform the first payment within 10 days, and giving good & sufficient Security for the rest, they were content, Which ended, Diomedes departed for Midleburg, to complete the time he promised to return in from Brussels.  
It happened that he met with a Jokky by the way, at an Jun, who had 4 neat Coach-horses to sell, which liked Diomedes extremely well, so that he resolved to buy them, and ask the price, the Jokkey offered them at twelve hundred gilders; he thinking that too much, bad ●im 800, at which the Jokky turned about, and would make him no answer, but Diomedes pursued his bargain so, that he got them for 1060 gilled, which he paid down in ready money he set forward toward the Hague where he bought a Coach, and hired a Coach and Footman, fully purposing thence forward to live like a Person of Quality.  
In this state he came to the house of Leopoldus, with Coach and Horses, himself and Retinue all in mourning, compliments Leopoldus in courteous manner, declaring the decease of his Uncle, which Mr. Leopoldus hearing, immediately rescontred him with a compliment of Condolency. After their compliments were ended and Diomedes introduced into the Parlour, he begun to relate how strangely he happened to hearken out the person, who had lost the money (mentioned pag. 50,) and that upon his giving the real tokens of the Sum. and Species; he restored it him again. Yet all this would not bring him home to his purpose, which he shortly after put in practice. He humbly prays the return of his Box of Writings which were brought forth, and he after the passing of many Compliments expressing his gratitude, took his leave, and posted for Amsterdam, where he set up his Horse in a Hackneystable, till he had hired one of his own, where he ordered his Coachman to attend. Now nothing remained save his house, which was not furnished with Movables suitable to the Grandour, he for the future purposed to live in. Hereupon he applies himself to a Painter, famous for Work, and Judgement, and one whose name I have seen set to many spurious pieces, that something resemble his way of working, to make them give a greater price: of this Painter he bought 14 choice pieces, bargaining for the whole for 3200 gilders, which he promised to send him, the Painter not in the least mistrusting, or doubting of his honesty was content to part with his pieces upon those terms, without further care.  
Having thus cullied the Painter with those Ornamentals, wherewith he garnished his house. In the next place he directs his course to a Woolen-Draper where he bought to the value of 800 gilders in Cloth, Bays and other Mourning stuffs, making the people believe he had an Uncle lately dead; at Brussels, who had left him a great Estate, which they believing gave him credit, greedy of his custom for the future.  
And although he had hitherto well effected his purpose, yet ●●s in some fear that at last all these debts would come home to him, and that some care must be taken to retrieve all again t these considerations were often opposed with an idle conceit he had of his being born a Child of Fortune, and that the Angel of Providence was always at his elbow, so that he needed not to take care, or further thought, than only to enjoy the blessings, that the mild Heavens were still to pour upon him; The worst was to incur new Debts to pay off the Old, since he was well in Credit, as yet hearing none breathe a word of Jealousy to the contrary.  
With these hopes he rested content, as do most men of desperate Fortunes aswell on the other hand. Shortly after he returns again to the Hague, designing to act his part with Leopoldus, to whom addressing, himself, accosted him on this wise: Good Sir, be pleased to forgive the freedom I come to request of you, wishing on the contrary, that it had been an opportunity of mine, wherein I might have been serviceable to you: But be assured, Sir, if I may any way retaliate so great a kindness, I will be at all times prepared to perform an office so acceptable. My request is that you would please to sell me about 10 or 12000 gild. in Actions, and I will remit you the Money so soon as I arrive at home. The reason why I h●●● it not with me is because that coming to Rotterdam, I met with a bargain of 300 Tun of Herring, which I finding to be for my turn, bought, & paid a third of the money down the whole amounting to 17000 gl. odd money, and the rest I am obliged to answer in Actions according to the Tenure of these Writings. With that he began to show Leepoldus false schedules and acquittances, he had made for the design; and presented him Obligations under his hand, and if he was not satisfied therewith, the Writings wherewith he was impowered to receive the Herring, without which none could receive them, for that the Merchants had thereby acknowledged themselves obliged to deliver the said Goods, before the receipt could be made void. Leopoldus was easily induced to believe what he said, especially remembering the marks of honesty, and the signal tokens of an upright mind in him, from the honest tender of the moneys he pretended to have sound, as also his being enriched upon the decease of his uncle at Brussels, which his returning in such a Grandour seemed to manifest as a certainty: thus blinded, he assented to his request, granting him 12000 Gilders in Actions; which he confirmed by the signing of Obligations, no further security being then demanded, as adjudging him sufficient for the payment of so inconsiderable a sum. Diomedes (it is to be observed) signed the Obligation with a counterfeit name writing himself Desire. This affair done, he took Coach, and that night left the Hague, not without returning Leopoldus a Million of thanks, for so great a favour: making the more haste, lest Leopoldus should haply after a more narrow scrutiny change his mind, and consequently revoke what he had done: Now Diomedes had so often as he had been with this Gentleman always a Jet-black Periwig, his Eiebrows and Mustachios artificially coloured, to the end he might not at another time be known.  
Shortly after he went for Rotterdam where (by the help of a Broker) he converted these Actions into money, and therewith paid his first payment for his Country house, and passing a compliment on the two Gentlemen who had been his Security for the whole, took his leave of them, and away for Amsterdam.  
According to our Calculation he had now about 10000 gilders, with which he resolved to fit out some Ships, and try his fortune that way; but contrary to his hopes he was obstructed in this design, for he was upon the undertaking of this purpose surprised with the Thunderbolt of Misfortune; The Merchant which he had caused to be misused, under the notion of an informer found him out, which gave him but small apparency of success, as we shall shortly relate; first, according to our promise (pag. 47.) we shall give you a reason of his being prosecuted by this person, and why he came with 2 Waiters to take him into Custody.  
The Merchant, with whom we have to do, was one who dealt chief in Wood, and for his own use had fi●●ed ou● Ships for Norway, and sometimes bought of others, according as he thought the Merchandise for his turn. Diomedes: who knew this very well, had a mind to show him a trick, for his own ends, applies himself to one Lammer, who dealing likewise in that way, & had a ship newly come in, loaden with such Wares, Lammer perceiving ●he had a mind to buy some of him, was willing to show him the Lading, Diomedes appointed him a time when he should come to him in order to see the Goods, having already understood where the ship lay: but instead of giving attendance for Lammer at the hour prefixed, he applies himself to Ʋander Burgh the Merchant before mentioned, telling him he had a ship lately come in from Norway, laden with Wood, which he was desirous to sell, telling him withal that he would afford him a reasonable good penny worth of it. Mr. Ʋander Burgh tickled to see it, thinking it might be an advantageous bargain to him, was in as much haste as Diomedes, who the better to effect the matter, had already been aboard to make the Master believe he had bought the whole Cargo. Diomedes borrowed a boat of an acquaintance of his, and rows aboard, warily shuning the S●ern, lest his Chapman by that means might come to suspect or descry the Villainy. After he had shown him all the Wood, and the other making good inspection into the Quantity and Quality of the same, they entered upon the bargain, which at last was brought to the point. The Chapman not once thinking but that Diomedes had both power and property to sell it; though shortly after he found himself in an error to his sorrow: for when Diomedes soon after struck a bargain with Ʋander Burgh for some other Wood, and had received it, deducting the price and payment of the first. Ʋander Burgh then thought that having now already bought the Goods and Ingrossed the Conveyance (which also was but a fraudulent practice of Diomedes) that he had already paid for those Goods, which Diomedes had after that manner sold him and not delivered, by deducting it in the price of those he himself had sold Diomedes, which Diomedes had likewise then received: but finding he was circumvented, & that Diomedes had no Title to the Goods, applies himself to the Law, which impowerd him to arrest him, though (as we have alby ready said) he could not effect the matter, for the trick Diomedes had played him, in making the Rabble believe he was an Informer.  
Ʋander Burgh was now herein greatly dissatisfied, and had made a vow with himself to be revenged on Diomedes, and in order to that applies himself to the City Bailif or, Chief Minister of Justice, to whom he related the Ca●e at large, and understanding that he had some knowledge of the matter, remains under hopes to see him punished according to his merits, pursuant to which he summons him before the Judge, where Diomedes in obedience to the Citation makes his appearance, was convicted of the crime, and found he had cheated no body worse than himself: for Sentence being given against him, he was ordered to redeliver the Wood and fined 2000 gl. beside, which was within 3 days to be paid to the Officer of Justice, or in default of that, to suffer Imprisonment, and a severer Sentence to be the second time pronounced against him, in which Diomedes was fain to rest contented for the time being.  
About four days after he takes a resolution to go to the Hague, and in order thereto betakes himself to the Boat, without either delivering of the Wood, or paying the fine, taking with him all he could on a sudden convert into Gold, which was about two thousand Crowns, but he was no ne'er come to the Boat but was ware of his friend Van der Burgh whom he had Stigmatised for an Informer, as was said before, with two Waiters of Justice after him: which leaving we will return to the pursuit of the matter, and manifest the Truth of the old Adage, or rather Proverb: Fraus fraud fraudulentoes afficit.  
Being now returned home, after he had gulled Mr. Leopoldus in the Hague, added to his Grandour, by Coach, Horses; Servants and Movables, with intent for the future to live in stately wise; Van der Burgh comes to have notice of his return, which he had long wished for, went to him and demanded either his Wares, or full payment: Diomedes finding himself obstructed in the carrying on of his Purpose, thought it his best way to redeliver the Wood, and intending to deal no more in Wines, he sold off what remained of his stock, which brought up a sum of 3000. gilders, two thousand whereof the Minister of Justice laid claim to, as accrueing him according to the sentence which was issued against him, and was compelled to pay the Charges and Fees; insomuch that his whole Estate was not now above 7000 gilders, which he conceiving a few pompous and Jovial days would consume, began anew to study how he might, furnish his Coffers again.  
His Custom was to frequent Coffeehouses, and places of like resort, where the more sober sort of People do usually meet. Here he found now and then an opportunity to meet with a Cully, whose humour he could suit, and inveigle with a seeming Probity. Understanding that one Ierome ● Merchant, had a great quantity of Grain, which he was willing to sell, he applies himself to him, and insinuating himself into his acquaintance, grew so familiar with him that he invited him to Supper, preparing all things before hand, in order to the better effecting of the Stratagem.  
When Jerome according to his promise was come and set at Table, Diomedes caused one of his trusty Brethren to withdraw himself into another room, & tell a heap of money, over and over, all the while the Merchant was there; which was accordingly done. The Merchant who all this while heard a great rattling of money, and that incessantly a telling, assumed the freedom to ask Diomedes if it was not in the next house. Diomedes replies, No, Sir, it is my Steward, who has received about Eighty Thousand Gilders this morning, for some Commodities I sold, with other money I have ordered him to tell out, intending rather than let it lie, to employ it i● some Merchandise or other: Jerome, who thinking he had now a fair opportunity offered him to make his market, asked him if he would buy a bargain of Grain telling him he had about 760 Tun of Rye, and some Wheat to dispose of, I am wel● satisfied, replied Diomedes, but I must first inquire of my Cashkeeper what Cash there will be over, having obliged myself already to pay 30000 gilders in ready money for a bargain I met with this after noon, but (added he) if you are content I'll pay you a Fourth ready money, and the rest at 3 months. jerom was well satisfied, not questioning the sufficiency of his new Customer: and so proceeding to the Bargain they agreed; the whole purchase amounting to 69160 gilders, the sale being drawn Diomedes signs it, having before hand provided Ink for the purpose, which was made of Salt-petre and other corrosive Ingredients, with this he subscribed his name, and delivered it to Jerome upon the receipt of the Grain.  
So soon as he had got the Grain into his possession he went and sold a certain quantity, amounting to the sum of 13000 gilders, and not long after met with a Chapman which bought of him about the value of 9060 Gild. and within a week after, another that took about 18080 Gild. off his hand, so that his estate was suddenly advanced from 7000 to 44000 Gild.  
Now that he might put off the remainder of his Grain, which he thought would be so damnified with keeping that it might return to his loss, he procured a person or two of his own rank to cast a report upon the Exchange, as if the Most Christian King were a levying of a great Army, and that he intended to Attack the Low-countrieses; and to add a better colour and apparency of Truth to the rumour; he hired an obscure fellow, whom he ordered to give himself out for one but newly come from the French Court: he had also the Day before dispersed a letter or two, dated the latest post day from Saint Germains; which proved so effectual that the face of affairs was quite transformed, the Merchants and Inhabitants generally in great fear and consternation, having always had apprehensions of a War. This sudden news so raised the Price of Corn that Diomedes wished he had reserved what he had already sold.  
Amongst a Considerable number of Trading men that were mis●ed upon this report, was one, whose too kind nature has sealed, my mouth, and put a stop to my pen, for sundry obligations, to record his name: yet the Letter, which Lebechea had caused to be shown him, we shall here insert, as it is thus paraphased from the French:  
Sir,  
Being incited by the perfect Friendship and the sundry Favour; you have ever manifested towards me, and that without the least deserts on my behalf, I held it a duty incumbent on me to give you advice, of the sudden design of his most Christian Majesty of France, which is with the return of the Spring to make a sudden Irruption upon the United Provinces; His Resolution being neither to spare the Land nor its Products, or what else may any way conduce to the enabling of the Inhabitants in opposition of his Arms: To which end he has levied a great Army, and as the Infancy of Affairs afford advice, will be drawn into several Battalions, for the better and more speedy expedition of the Enterprise. Besides this it a certain truth that a huge Fleet will be put in equippage, to cruise upon the Hollanders in the North and Mediterranean Seas: and necessarily I must confess, that so long as I have been honoured with the Dignity of a Counsellor of his Majesty, have never seen any thing so desired or pressed forward, as this very Intent to sub due the Spanish and United Provinces: a thing, Sir, I only impart to you for your own good, and the good of those that have any Alliance or Interest with you, hazarding thereupon the heavy consequences which might befall me for violating the trust reposed in me from so great a Monarch. Not else but that I am,  
Worthy Sir, Your Most obedient and most faithful Serut. Jean le Grand. Saint  etc.  
This Gentleman, who, as I told you, was injured by the Contents of this letter, thinking to take care betime, for the furnishing of his Garner with corn, met accidentally with Diomedes upon the Exchange, and after a few circumstantial reasonings tending to the cheapening of the Commodity, he struck a bargain with him for all the remainder of his Grain, which was agreed upon for the sum of 38000 Ca●oli Gilders, ready money: for Diomedes was ever fearful lest his Creditors should fall suddenly upon him, and render him uncapable of receiving any money that was due to him from others. The next day he delivered the Corn and received the money, with which he made mirth and good cheer: but it was not long before Jerome his Chapman came to spoil his sport; for looking by chance upon the Writing he found nothing but paper, and instead of letters, holes, as if it had been eaten with moths; was in a great amaze, and weighing the matter well with himself could not but conclude it as a cheat, whereat enraged he ran to Diomedes his house, and letting his Passion predominate over his Reason, withoutany further inquiry, charges the matter home upon him, and roundly began to demand his money, which Diomedes hearing swore he had paid him all he ought him: jerom then twice as passion●: as before could hardly for bear beating him, giving him whole volleys of Rogues and Cheats, Diomedes as well provided as he paid him in the same Mint, returning him as many Broadsides of Knaves and Rascals● as the other did him of Rogues and Cheats, telling him he was a fraudulent fellow for demanding his money twice. To be brief this Logic grew so bitter, that Diomedes bade him go out of his house, if he loved himself or else to take what would follow, which jerom observing and finding no good to be done this way, he goes away, threatening to prosecute him. This startled Diomedes not a little, who after he had screwed his brain a while, thought he must drive out one ●ail with another: He took Courage, & to reap the benefit of a harvest of his own making, finding Obligations to be considerably fallen, repairs to a Broker, of whom he informed himself of a Person that had some to dispose of, and there bought for the value of 20000 gilders, which he paid in ready money, and told the Gentleman he had a mind to 60 or 70 Thousand Gilders more, whereupon the Gentleman (whose name was Mordecai, a jew) promised him to come to him, with some others, as accordingly one evening appointed by Diomedes he did, to transform Money into paper.  
Mordecai who had now met with such a Haman was resolved not to let the matter rest so, but with all diligence endeavour to right himself, and purposes to bring the matter to be decided by Authority, incited by his Integrity and Uprightness, which as another Esther might be able to ensnare this unjust Haman in his own Net: but as Humane Purposes are fatally disposed, and frequently fail of a lucky Issue; so by an inopinate Chance he was for that time hindered in the pursuit of his Intentions, and Diomedes his Troubles procrastinated, which he was liable to for so notable a cheat, the Issue therefore of this we will ommit till hereafter, when we purpose to draw a scheme of his Perplexities all at once.  
There is not any Vice so pregnant of destructive Consequences as Covetousness: That alone is both the root of all evil, and the Cause of Death, the just punishment of the same: Nay it is conspicuously evident to those who have but the lest taste of reason, that there are but two paths to choose, which when that leading to a future Happiness cannot with ease be passed, in contraria current, they cannot avoid the other, which assuredly without any further promiseth better things than the former; and certainly this has been so prevalent with Diomedes, our present Subject, that Friends and Aliens have had an equal respect from him, when prompted through a zeal to Proserpina, of, as it is styled in sacred Writ, Mammon, a Deity to whom the World in this age seems to be totally devoted.  
Diomedes had an uncle by marriage whose name was Epacius, this lived in a Countryhouse near Hillegom, where he spent his days with all imaginable Quiet and Tranquillity, not troubled with those encumbrances which others who live in Towns, and under the Society of Men are subject to; contenting himself with the  and  products of his own lands. Diomedes envied this good old Gentleman, desirous to see him take a Journey to Limbo, he being his next heir apparent: yet finding that this Uncle of his was still fresh, and in all likelihood might survive him, he thought there was no way to become master of his Estate, but to circumvent him by fraud, and at last found out a subtle Invention which he put in practice.  
He applies himself to his said Uncle under colour of a visit, where he was caressed and received, with all signal tokens of respect and marks of Friendship, that could possibly be shown a near Relation: Nay in such sort that Diomedes (had not Satan blown up those infernal sparks which were bred in the bone) should not have found in his heart to play him the the prank intended; but where Covetousness acts for Empress, Virtue must a side; so far was it predominant in him that forgetting all humanity he continues in his resolution, and after some discourse counterchanged, which smelled of nothing else but Courtesy and Piety on his side, he fell to bargaining with him, and bought 20 Oxen, paying down 300 gilders, the value whereof he had in Gold about him, signing an Obligation for the rest, which he promised to pay within a month or two, and having taken leave of his Uncle, he hired one to drive the Oxen to Amsterdam.  
After 2 or 3 months was expired, the old Gentleman not hearing from Diomedes, turns him to his Writings, where he found the Nest, but the birds flown; for Diomedes had tempered the Ink with such gnawing Ingredients as eat through the paper, as was shown in Pag. 64, where he served the Corn-merchant after the same manner. This startled the Old man so, that he suddenly took pen in hand and writ the following lines.  
Cousin,  
Since Fate will have it so that I must style you thus, it makes my blood to boil, and renders me sensible, of an inward grief to think how I am locked in bonds of Affinity with one who is a Perpetrator of such hellish Practices, and damnable Inventions, as I, to my smarting, find you factious in, notwithstanding your many Hypocritical expressions when I saw you last; Do you think that God directs the World blindfold? or that your wicked Actions will go unrewarded? Leave of those unjust Courses (I advise you) and if you desire either Grace or Prosperity; and make expiation for your Past Trespasses by a sincere and unfeigned Contrition, rendering to every man his own, and to me that which you stand indebted; or otherwise rest confident that I will not only have it by due Course of Law, but also bereave you of your Honour and Reputation. This consider, and do as you tender your Welfare, I am  
Epacius  
Diomedes so soon as he had received this Letter, seemed to be greatly concerned at the matter, and the better to maintain his esteem with supporting apparencies, against any future suspicion, he Cries Whore first, and summoned his Uncle to appear in Court, having in the mean time suborned a false Wittness or two, to give Evidence to a forged paper he had written, wherein Epacius was found to confess himself indebted to justin the Father of Diomedes, in the sum of Six Thousand gilders, payable in case of the decease of justin to his son Diomedes whereto the usual hand and mark of Epacius was artificially counterfeited with a different Ink from the Body of the Obligation, both tempered with soot, to seem a writing of such standing as the date would require. Besides this he had also forged a certain Discharge, the Tenor whereof was thus.  
I the under witten do acknowledge and confess to have received from the hands of Epacius my Uncle, Twenty Oxen, valued according to bargain made between my said Uncle and myself, the sum of 1530 gl. which I receive in payment and abatement of the sum of 6000 gilders, due to me from the said Epacius by virtue of a Writing Obligatory, for Moneys lent and contracted by Merchandise. Which said sum of 1530 gilled. shall be accountable as part of payment and abatement of the said sum of 6000 gl. without Fraud or Coven. Signed at Hillegom etc.  
Diomedes de Lebechea.  
This Acquittance was cunningly sealed up and sent in a letter to a Countryman, that lived near Hillegom, whom he had also hired to be assistant in the matter, he according to the order of Diomedes delivered it to Epacius, in the presence of the Court. Diomedes so soon as he saw him begin to open it, prayed the Court to examine his Papers, which they did, and, found the Discharge, that made so much for Diomedes, that sentence was passed in his favour, and the Defendant constrained not only to renounce his pretence, but also condemned to pay the supposed Remainder of the sum that was mentioned in the Obligation, which (the price of the Oxen deducted) was 4470 gl.  
Some few days after it happened that Diomedes went to visit an acquaintance of his to divert himself for a few spare hours. They who were well acquainted with his Course of life, had a mind to see, if they could circumvent him as he had done others; in order to which, one Manvelius the most eminent among them invited him to a sumptuous Feast, inviting several others of his Acquaintance where, all Dainties were provided that were thought requisite to Entertain the Guests in splendid manner. When now at the day appointed they were met, there appeared among the rest one Mons. le Cocque kinsman to Mr. Manvel, newly come out of France, where his retirement was. One of them after he had passed the usual Compliment to the Reception and Welcoming of a Stranger, asked him, what news he brought out of France? I have little news (replies he) which imports any thing of joy, otherwise I should impart it to the Company: For that which tends (though never so little) to the augmenting of mirth would be both more acceptable and consentaneous to this present Occasion, which were not my Opinion such, I should not ommit to relate a passage lately happened. The Company hearing him say so, were yet more eager to know what it might be, and so pressed him that he to answer their desire began to relate (with as much elegancy as his Ability in the Language would dispense with) this following Preamble which sufsufficiently expressed the drift of the Story.  
'tis said (quoth he) that a Body when pampered and fed with the most delicious diet (whilst it lives) Stinks most when it is dead: Even so a man when fed with the food of choicest Benefits, afterwards dies in the common sin of Ingratitude, the worms of unfaithfulness render him more nauseous than otherwise, and the more Good has been heaped upon him the worse he stinks. So much that oftentimes the Benefactor proves his greatest fo●, and perhaps seeks to bury him in the Grave of Misery: The following Narrative will then afford a remarkable Example of the shameful and infidious deportment and ingrateful behaviour of one who had enjoyed many Favours, The Dissatisfaction of the Party abused, and the Revenge of of the Fact executed in most horrible manner.  
Hillary (a younger brother to Theobald, both sons to one Mons. Huber● a French Gentleman of Soissons) after the decease of his Mother had no mind to spend his days with his eldest brother; for knowing him to be naturally morose and arrogant could not expect but to be curbed and tyrannised over, resolved with himself wholly to retire, and betake himself to a married State and accordingly watches his opportunity to accomplish his prudent and laudable Design.  
Not long after it was his Fate to be smitten with a corruscant eye-dazling Dame, by name Angelica, whom he could never behold without being inwardly wounded and one in whom Nature might glory as a complete piece of Excellency, These external Ornaments besides the surpassing rare endowments of spirit and internal Faculties of the mind, had almost bereft young Hillary of Reason, and transformed him into a mute, not able to remedy himself by absence, nor any manner of Conceit, which he would willingly have imposed upon his Thoughts, to drive away the Remembrance of what he thought would be his destruction, if he did not hit the mark which he must aim at: and so far was he charmed that were he to endure 20 years' slavery, with no other Commons than Bread and Water, for the Enjoyment of a Creature so rare, he would have deemed himself more happy than the common sort of men. But it was not long before this Idea vanished, for shortly after he was informed that the Lady had already betrothed herself by an irrevocable Engagement, and that to his eldest Brother. Upon these unwelcome tidings he grew very pensive, and so far possessed with Melancholy. That the hopes of a Nuptial Bed were transformed into the dolorous suppositions of a Co●●in: His time he passed away insadness, complaining of his fatal hap, and the frowns of Fortune, which certainly afforded but slendor comfort or remedy to his desperate and calamitous estate, much less, means to an expetible issue of his desire.  
Theobald on the other hand, to whom the Heavens seemed to grant good success, spent his minutes in a perpetual joy, rarely absent from the incomparable Angelica, who caressed him with all the amorous Delights, that a Lover could either possibly wish or imagine. His love, as it was surpassing vigorous, seemed to Angelica in disputably immortal; and that no●e could be so entirely perfect in his Affections as this Gentleman; who above all his Corrivals and Competitors, had gained the Ascendant in her heart. Theobald now sensible of his Happiness, ommitted not to use the freedom she assented to, nor neglected any liberty that might add to his delight. Oftentimes he extolled her to the stars, and as often endeavoured to exalt himself to the apex of illicit Pleasure, but she, endowed with the laudable virtue of Modesty, and chaste Principles, would never yield to what might in the lest tend to the violation of her honour. Arrived thus to the very extreme end of his wishes, he understood that his brother Hilary, had made some manifestation of kindness to her, concluded with himself that it was purley out of envy, or at best an act of mockery, resented the matter so ill, that he determines a revenge, and to vent the effects of his fury upon him, as shortly after he did. For,  
Upon a day as Hilary went to divert himself with hunting, Theobald, accompanied with 3 or 4 fellows, sped himself toward the Chase, with an intent to dispatch him. When he supposed the feat to be effectually done, he returns home, but coming to Angelica, she informs him what was reported among the Neighbourhood, as that he had murdered his brother; and entreated him, as he tendered his safety to abscond, which he did.  
Hillary, notwithstanding he was mortally wounded, yet remained in a possibility of recovery, and it just happening that 2 Peasants came riding that way, espiedhim wallowing in blood, and perceiving him still alive took, him up into a cart and brought him to a Cottage, where by the help of an expert Chiturgeon, he was cured of his wounds, and restored to his former health, when he recovered his senses, and began to remember how barbarously his brother had attempted to murder him by so inhuman a way, he thought it not safe for him to stay there, till his brother might come to hear of his recovery; and so perhaps assail him a second time at unawares, and so give opportunity to the loss of both their lives; he took his journey towards Vienna, where he resided some time at the Imperial court, none of his acquaintanc knowing that he was alive, save a bosom-friend he had, who disbursed the money for his cure, making the Surgeons and the Peasants in that village believe he was an Italian, to prevent further inquiry into the matter.  
Angelica was all this time in great consternation about this facinorous act, which her lover had perpetrated in such a degenerate and ignoble manner, and yet could not sound the Occasion or ground of the matter. But what grieved her more, was his perpetual Absence, which could not be remedied without forfeiture of his head. At last she resolves to apply herself to some Eminent Minister of State to beg a Pardon for him, as suddenly she bethought her of a fair Opportunity, having a near Relation on the Mother's side, who was a special Favourite of the King, and a person of rare Conduct and great Gravity.  
So soon as she hadintimated the Case he went to give attendance at the door of the Audience Chamber, & was after a few minutes waiting admitted into presence, preferred an Exhibition of the Case of Theobald, with a Supplication for Pardon, to which his Majesty was pleased to give his Royal assent Returning thus to Madam Angelica, with a pardon in his hand, she dispatched letters to Theobald, who understanding himself a free Remmissionary, came boldly home, and applied himself to his Lady, to return her thanks for the grand respect and Affections she had manifested towards him: renewing his suit, and confirming his Fidelity and Constancy to her; which between them he ratified by deep protestations of his sincere meaning, binding himself with a grievous Curse never to recede from what he had already by Oath obliged his Conscience to. She on the other hand was not remiss to retaliate his Inclinations; and not only after the same manner vowed a stability of Promise and Purpose, but allowed and accepted of his Oaths and Protestations as satisfaction enough to expunge all jealousy ou● of her mind, declaring moreover that she could very well acquiesce in what he had already promised without any thing more to be said by way of Addition. Thus resting secure of each others Fidelity, they began to grow a little more familiar, than you'll say (perhaps) was seemly: so for that I would not willingly use the freedom to commemorate it at this time, lest I should be taxed with immodesty for my pains.  
When they had thus fruitfully spent their time for some few days together, and Theobald already cloyed in Pleasure, laughs to think how he had attained the scope of his Desires; he takes a resolution never to come into her Company again, and forgetting her great favours, and the signal marks of Love she had ever shown him, he began to contemn her. Her Love he rewards with hatred, her service with Contempt, her Fidelity with Falsehood, her Zeal to preserve his life, with cruel Revile and Taunt for what he was himself equally guilty of.  
Now when Angelica had with great Patience expected the coming of her Gallant, but neither seeing, not hearing of him, she was wholly altered, fearing that she had deceived herself in being too credulous. She sends her Page forthwith to his house, who desiring to speak with him, Theobald sent him word that he had nothing to do with him, nor any he was any ways concerned with, and that he would not have any Matchmakers or Wench-brokers to tread his threshold. The Page returns with this answer, which so surprised the Lady that she was almost distraught, blaming herself for being too apt to believe the many Protestations of her Lover, aswell as him for his Treachery: yet ever would comfort herself with these thoughts, That he might probably do it to try her, although found herself shortly after in a grievous error, when news was brought her that Hilary was still alive, and returned home from the Court Imperial, that Theobald upon his arrival was set forward upon a journey for Italy, having taken all his Patrimony with him. These unwelcome news brought her into despair of ever redressing her mischance, and withal into a distemper which kept her company so long as she lived.  
Theobald arrives first at Milan, where he purposed to spend a little time; but as Fate would have it, grows weary of the place, altars his Resolution and sets forward for Genua. Coming then to Genua found there an opportunity to transport himself for Venice, and in order to his Voyage imbarques himself aboard a small Pinnace bound for the Hadriatic Sea. So soon as they had reached the height of Gallipoli, were assailed by two Corsairs belonging to Algiers, which without much contest took them, carried up the Pinnace to Algiers, and brought Theobald, with the rest of the Captive Slaves to the market, where they were exposed to sale. Our Gentleman, being well limbed and of a robust body was not long there before he was sold to a Moor, who forthwith clapped a massy ponderous chain to his legs, and let him lie in a kennel, like a dog at his chamber door. I doubt not but by that time he was sensible of his misery, not only to be brought to the Condition of a Slave, from a State so Noble and happy, but at the same time to be deprived of all he could call his own in the World, and so rendered uncapable of his own Redemption and to acquire a livelihood for the future.  
While he thus had hardly time enough, to bewail the sad and deplorable effects of his temerous and insubid Actions, consulted now and then with his hard and uneasy pillow, how he might make his escape; but all to little or no purpose; for he had no less than three locks to break, besides his chain. He then resolved to write to the Lady: Angelica at Soissons, to try, if possibly he might prevail with her to procure his Redemption, and to pardon his unworthiness, with promise of submission to her wills: Angelica receives a letter of this tenor, and was well satisfied with the matter, hoping now by this Occasion to cover her scandalous miscarriage and to save the Oath which on her side so well as his was of such gravity, as a tender Conscience could not dispense with the breach of; But considering the Ransom was too high for her alone, she declares the matter to Hilary, entreating him to contribute the half, and promised to deposit the other half herself, moving him to show a fraternal love, and notwithstanding he owed him his life, yet that he would not deal with him according to his merits, but rather let it be known to the World how willing he was to remit, offences by passing by one of that moment, and recompensing it with good. By these and the like arguments she instanced, Hillary was drawn to compassion with his brother, and liberally paid down half the Ransom. Angelica having brought it to this pass, perpetually furthered the matter till she got her Vassal home. When he was arrived they begun afresh to evidence their inclinations, he promising to marry her before her nine months were about. The time was appointed, all things in preparation to this jovial day are taken care for. At the time appointed the friends on both sides repair to the wedding, and Angelica, tricked up in gorgeous attire, waits for the joyful coming of her Bridegroom; but he instead of coming to receive his Bride, and perform the Nuptial ceremonies according to his Oath and Duty; broke up a Money-chest of his brothers and ran away with a notorious strumpet, leaving Angelica to comfort herself with what he had left her in pawn.  
Not long after the Lady fell in labour, and was delivered of a brave son having the very features of his Father. The child she sent away clandestinely into the Country, yet not with such privacy, but that the matter was noised presently abroad, as usually happens in such cases, she kept her bed for several weeks together, summoning up her wits along, how she might order her affairs with her treacherous lover, who had thus unkindly dealt with her. By that time she had recovered her strength, Theobald comes home, and applies himself to his brother, who denied him reception, and threatened if he did not immediately departed to turn him over into the hands of Justice; he meeting with this disappointment, was urged, to return to Angelica, thinking to soothe her up and perform the marriage already ratified; but she considering his ingratitude and unfaithful deportment, on the one hand, and her miscarriage with him which rendered her liable to perpetual infamy on the other, rejects him with a positive refusal; however being compassionate over him through reason of his poverty gave him the value of 2000 gilders, or upwards, thinking so to be rid of him, Theobald takes the gift without the least manifestation of his gratitude, which when he had consumed on his lusts, returns again to her, still pressing and insisting upon her promise, and at last grew so importunate that he threatened to expose her to public shame, unless she would, agreeable to her promise, marry with him: but she perceiving the villainy of his purposes, to retaliate her late benefits in such manner, harboured such a hatred against him, that those very atoms and sparks of love which till now, lay buried in the ashes were totally extinguished, and took the freedom to turn him off; and told him she hoped that her just Plea would be vindicated and her cause revenged, either, by the Great Judge in Heaven, or the Temporal Justice on Earth.  
Theobald, whose Impiety was such that he neither valued this disdainful result of his new suit, nor dreaded the menacing Oaths she swore, departed, and related not only to her near Relations, but to whom soever he met with, that Angelica was a notorious Strumpet, that she had proffered her body both to him and his Brother Hilary, as a voluntary Prostitute, and the like. Thus was the Lady Angelica exposed for a public taunt to the World, hissed and hemmed after of the Rabble; which when she perceived, and the Cause thereof, she summons him up before the Criminal Bench, to make proof of what he had reported: but Theobald not able to make due proof thereof, suborns 2 or 3 Russians; who made oath of such detestable actions against her that the Bench without much examination so abbhorred the Cause, that their Modesty would not vouchsafed it a hearing, but bade her departed, and for the future be of better deportment or else expect the punishment due for such misbehaviour.  
Angelica finding herself thus abused in her Cause, and herself become a public Reproach, resolves to revenge her of this Wrong, and to reward her quondam Lover for his unjust do; in order to which she sends her Page to Theobald, with Instructions to invite him to Supper with her, and reconcile their Difference, with a Glass of Wine. It was a matter of doubt whether Theobald was more amazed or overjoyed at this unexpected Invitation; but holding it for the wisest Course to take her in the hamour, promised he would give attendance, and accordingly at the hour appointed where she (as far as her inward fury would dispense with) courteously received him, with all imaginable tokens of joy, and Carresses. So soon as the Table was set with Dishes, she sat down next Theobald (hardly able all the time, to contain her rage, or defer the execution of her passion one moment longer.) It seemed by some circumstances that she intended to make him drunk, but being too impatient, to dispatch him, by so redious a way, she took the opportunity (when he endeavoured to kiss her) to stab him with a Knife that lay by her plate on the Table, upon which he fell down to the Ground, not able to recover himself so far as to make the  resistance, thus finding that he was made incapable of defending himself, he begged mercy, and prayed her that she would not use such cruelty in revenging herself of his unworthy carriage; to which she answered that no torment could be thought too cruel for so base a wretch as he was, and that she would not grant him so great a favour to purchase a new discontentment: with that she slashed off his nose, and mangled his face in lamentable manner, picked out both his eyes, and then stabbed him 3 or 4 times in the belly, where still alive he lay wallowing in blood: and, so well as his decaying vitals would give him leave, prayed her to dispatch him outright, and rid him of that miserable pain, but she who was ready to do any thing more than what he desired, replied that a speedy death were too great a mercy, and to prevent his being importunate that way, with the help of her Knife tore his tongue, out, crying, This is that devilish Instrument which has so many times been the occasion of my woe, which has brought this villain and myself to this miserable State, May this be the reward of every false and treacherous Varle●; and with that, threw it away, and began to rip up his breast for his heart: but her servants who probably were ordered for that time, to kee● out of the Chamber, hearing this noise, and such unwonted expressions, rushed in, and seeing this doleful spectacle were in a great amazement, and did what they could to stop the Course o● her fury, but all too late; for although they could well see that he was then alive, yet is was not long before he was a Corpse. The Servants took the Knife from her, and used all the persuasions they could to reduce her to the knowledge of herself, and to be sensible of such an inhuman and insubid feat; and at last prevailed so far with her that she began to be deeply sorry for what was done, and to consider, that she was not likely to escape the hands of Justice for the same, which seriously weighing with herself, she grew desperate and attempted to stab herself, but was hindered by her servants, who advised her to make her escape, to which she seemingly assented, and in order thereto bid them saddle a couple of Geldings. Whilst the men were gone to fetch out the horses, she slipped out at a backdoor and threw herself headlong into a Well, that was in the middle of the yard, and so revenged Herself of Herself.  
The horses now being brought forth, and all things in a readiness, one of the servants steps in to tell her, but not finding her in the Dining Room, went through all the Rooms in the house, and at last into the Court to seek her, where at last he found her in the Well, with the feet just above water, upon which the Neighbours were called together, and after a thorough inquiry into this dismal feat, and the cause, unanimously concluded Theobald the Occasion of his own and her untimely end  
So soon as this story was ended, gave each man his Opinion about the same, which that we may not detain you with any previous discourse we shall ommit. Manvelius in the mean time gave his Guests great Contentment with a laudable entertainment, where plenty of every thing that might add delight to the Eye, or , was as it were poured out of a Cornucopia, Nor were the Guests tardy to acknowledge the same, expressing their great satisfaction by variety of Complimental Eulogies on this splendid Treat.  
Diomedes (who all this time seems to have lain dormient) was not remiss to afford what mirth he could to the Company, in telling of several pretty stories, of which he was well furnished.  
Among the Guests was a certain Gentlewoman called Christina; whose name, how well it agreed with her temper, you may judge by the sequel. This Gentlewoman suited the humour of Diomedes as well as she could, till at last Diomedes was so far taken with her that he coveted what was not consistent with Virtue; and at last they understood one another so well that she went into a Chamber alone, whither he followed, and was for some time held up with a few Ceremonies, not much pertinent to the matter he came about, till she made a shift to pillage him of a Gold watch of a very high value, which he not once perceived. This done they parted without any further mischief, and full satisfaction to Diomedes, who contrary to his purpose missed his Venereal Corrolary where with, he thought to complete his Epicurean Banquet. After the Guests had given the usual Compliment to Manvelius they departed each to his habitation; Diomedes, who all this while knew not of his loss, goes to bed, and in the morning when he awoke, began to look for his watch to see what a clock it was, but found it not.  
Yet was he not so much concerned at the loss, as that he knew not who should be the Thief, and was in default of proof constrained to hold his tongue and put up the matter in quiet.  
A few days after came Manvelius to give him a visit, accompanied with Monsr. le Cocq the Frenchman, and a third person, who in the project was to represent a strange Merchant. Manvel upon his first saluting him, began to beg excuse for his boldness, and so gradually proceeded on to the purpose. Sir said he, I am hearty sorry that I am necessitated to give you a trouble which I little dreamed on, this Gentleman having made a journey expressly to receive a sum I am owing him, and has happened to come just as I am out of Cash, having yesterday paid off 3 considerable Sums, and the day before cleared Accounts with some of my Correspondents, so that being out of moneys, I beseech you be so kind, as to supply me with a Thousand Ducatoons, for three Months, wherein you will highly oblige me to do the like or greater favour, when your Occasions and my Opportunity concur. Diomedes jointly considering Manvelius his Reputation and Civility, could not deny him, counts down the money. Manvelius hereupon shows him a Blank bond which he had made, wherein Diomedes was to confess himself to have a Diamond-Ring of Manvels for a Pledge, which he desired him to sign. To this Diomedes assents, on Condition Manvel was to sign another for the money. Now after a short previous Colloquy, Manvel desires Diomedes to sign, which he did, having in the mean time clandestinely taken away that Obligation, wherein the Pawn was specified, and laid down another in the lieu of it, whose Contents was, That Diomedes confessed himself Debtor to Manvel in the Sum of 25000 gl. which Diomedes, not sensible of the fraud, without any difficulty signs. This done, Manvel and his Company took their leave of Diomedes, well satisfied that the matter took so well.  
This Mischance was also seconded by another. For a certain Boor living near Amsterdam, who had in former time been deceived by Diomedes, took upon him to be revenged on him for it, which he thus put in practice.  
He had in his house a servant-maid to whom he imparted his aggrievance, and withal told her his purpose of retaliation. To this maid he gave Instructions, and delivered her 2 pair of Pendants, the one pair fine, the other false, but so like each other in fashion that an ordinary Judgement could not distinguish them. With these she posts away to Diomedes, where coming to speak with him, she proffered them to sale, telling him that she was of good parentage, notwithstanding her then being in the state of a Servant, in which state she had diligently served for several years together, and so saved a small sum of money, which she then intended to dispose of to an advantageous end, only wanted about an hundred gilders more, which she prayed him that he would do her the favour to lend her upon the Pendants.  
Diomedes who had a reasonable Judgement in Jewels could not value them less than 6 times the money, readily gave her the Sum she asked upon them, on Condition she should pay 15 saint. per month Interest, and signed a Writing whereby he confessed to have received such Jewels from her, which upon payment of the moneys lent he was obliged to make restitution of.  
Whilst he was busy in writing the said Note, the Wench clandestinely drew out the false Pendants, and Conveyed the true into her Handkerchief, which she lay on the table, as a necessary instrument for a Hocus pocus trick in time of need.  
For that time they took their leaves of each other, and the maid returns to her master, and told him what had passed, which pleased him extremely well.  
Some time after the Peasant came to Diomedes at Amsterdam, and presented him a bargain of Oxen, promising to afford him a good pennyworth, and a long day of Payment. This pleased Diomedes extremely well, having found so rare an occasion to chouse the Clown, so that he deemed it more than a venial sin, to neglect such a golden opportunity: he therefore returns the Peasant answer, that he would take a walk that way into the Country and, withone see his Oxen.  
In the mean while Diomedes calls to mind, how he had been cheated by a Servant wench (not knowing that it was a Contrivance of the Peasant) set up his wind-pipes and told the Story; sharply reprehending the vices and ungodly Practices of this Iron-age; and glossed the whole matter, with so much Candour and Integrity, that the Peasant, if his Conscience had not been asleep, must needs have repent his designed Revenge. Never were two better met, the one acting Idiot, and the other Puritan; the Peasant under a colour of Simplicity, and downrightness, a●●ented to every reason of Diomedes, without any deeper Sentence, than, Good-lack-a-day; What will this World come to a● last? well is it possible? What a sinful Age, is this we live in? and the like. After this manner they spent the tediousness of the way, which indeed, was too long for them both.  
Assoon as they were arrived at the house of the Boor, and Diomedes set down, in comes the maid, whom Diomedes so soon as he saw knew to be the same that had put a trick upon him. He was no longer able to withhold his fury, but immediately taxes her with the cheat, and gave her a whole Tear of Mab's and Jades. But the wench, who had no small measure of Impudence, first made as if she were amazed, and afterward, began to act her part, and with one told him that he was himself a cheat, and that he should not put her off so, in telling her that the Pendants were courterfeit, which she had brought him; for she could bring manifest proof to the contrary. Upon that she ran out in all haste, and called an Officer, who arrested him there in the Room. Diomedes thus surprised, addresses himself to the Boor, and makes his complaint, what ha●d measure he had. But the Boor instead of comforting him, threatened to fall upon his Bones. You r asca●, quoth he, think you that I will justify your villainy, or that this hypocritical Expressions have wrought so far upon me, as to have such a mean conceit of this good Gentlewoman, who is as well famed for her Virtue, as thou a●t infamous for thy Villainy. These Jewels to my knowledge are not false, but it is thy naughtiness would persuade me to it, for they have been twice sold for more than 3000 gl. and if thou wilt not return them; we'll convert thy bones into Dice.  
By that time Diomedes was got home, and hardly got a good night's rest, came Manvelius to salute his Knaveship; praying him with one to pay the 20000 gilled. The twenty thousand gilders (quoth Diomedes) prithee what dost mean man? explain thyself: Manvelius hereat counterfeited as much amazement, as he, and urged him to pay it without many words, or controversy; and not to pretend ignorance, or make the thing strange. To be brief they grew so hot that Diomedes held up his fist to give him a Sarabrand; whereupon, Manvel, who was no great affecter of such sport-●an out immediately to the Citymessenger (or Bailif) to summon him up to the Townhouse, where after the matter was debated, Diomedes, lost the trial: upon which he appeals to a higher Court, where at that time he had another Trial, which was but of small moment, and that he won, but this which was of greater importance, was given against him; and he condemned to pay the money, which he did without showing himself much concerned for the matter: though resolved to be revenged by some stratagem or other; which also succeeded well. For,  
Having now designed his Machine, he bribed 4 or 5 Persons to be assistant to him in this affair; who glad of the opportunity promised to behave themselves according to his Direction. One of them was to be Don Philippo, forsooth, dressed and attired in a gentile habit, to suit an Ealdor Baron. Two other of his Comrades he put in Livery, like Pages, who were to follow Don Philippo. After instructions given, Don Philippo marches up and down; and passed several times by the door of Mr. Manv●●, whom at length he found standing before his house. Don Philippo, steps up gingerly to him, salutes him, with all imaginable courtesy, and told him, he thought himself the happiest man alive, to meet with so good a friend, ask him about his health and how affairs stood; Manvel, who was not one of the stiffest, received him with such courtesy as he thought might suit a person of his Calibre, and really thought with himself that he had seen him some where before, but durst not make so bold as to ask him at first, Who he was? Don Philippo pursues his compliment, and finally breaks off with the recommendation of Monsr. Le Cocque, whom he said he had seen (for Diomedes had made him acquainted with all necessary circumstances about him) he being but lately set forward for France. Manvel hearing that prays him to step in, which Don Philippo excused, thinking it time enough to accept it at the second entreaty; but Manvel thought perhaps the Gentleman might probably be in haste, and therefore would not be too importunate, insomuch that Sr. Philip, for that time missing of his expectation, took his leave of him, and went into an Inn, in the next street, where he took up his Lodging for that night. The next morning having consulted with his Confoederate Diomedes, he sent him this following Letter.  
Monsr. Manvel, SALUT.  
The Inclination which I have to towards your person, for many considerable causes and reasons, moves me to let you understand of a rich Opportunity I have in serving you in a bargain of such Commodities as I am sensible you deal in, which may tend to your advantage, if you will please to come over, and honour me with your presence. I make no doubt but you will think your Journey worth the while, and consequently make an advantageous bargain, which is the only desire and hope of.  
SIR, Your faithful Servant Anth. van Breuckel, Broker. Rotterdam, etc.  
Manvel, upon the reading of this Letter, determines to set forward to Rotterdam, and make use of such an opportunity, especially because the same Broker from whom this Letter was supposed to come, had formerly sent him advice about some particular affairs which fell out very luckily: and according to this Resolution sets forward that night.  
In the mean time Sir Philip, the Mock-Baron, sends to know whether Manvel, was gone or not; and being informed he was, goes with his Pages pro tempore, to Manvels ' wife, to act the Part intended. Diomedes had in the mean time assured him that she was a brisk, open hearted Dame, and therefore gave him encouragement to use the more freedom with her. When he had got access and found her in every thing congruous with the Character Diomedes had given him, he began first to entertain her with soft and fair discourse, and so gradually to take a larger liberty, till he had got the scope he aimed at, and won her consent to go to bed with him. This the Pages marking they acted their parts with the Maids below, who spared not for wine all the time, till the Maids were both so drunk that, they were not sensible what they did, and at last fell both asleep, the one under the Kitchen Table, and the other in the Cellar before the tap, with a great Stone-bottle in her arms. When the Pages saw that the ●oast was clear, the Mistress above with their Master, the Maids-fa●● asleep, and the Doors at the Order of Mrs. Manvel, securely bolted, began to hunt up and down the house for Keys: which after a little seeking they found, and went to a Money-chest where the● met with 16000 Ducats. Having got the Money, they ran out leaving the door open and knocked at some of the Neighbours doors, praying them to have the goodness to come to the passing of Mrs. Manvel, who lay desperately sick. This done they betook them to their heels. The Neighbours who held it their duty to visit Mrs. Manvel in such a time, especially, as some of them knew that her husband was gone from home, went in, and coming into the chamber where she was wont to lie, stood a little at the door, whispering together, and at last opened the door very softly, to go in. Don Philip hearing the door open, drew back the Curtain and sees 3 or 4 women marching softly toward the Bedside; upon which to avoid further trouble he jumps out of bed in his Waistcoat and Drawers, and with his Upper-garment upon his arms made all the ha●● he could toget, out before any more of that kind of people came: leaving his Breeches behind him, in which was a Copy of that Letter that he had sent Mr. Manvel, dated from Rotterdam.  
Diomedes who tickled mightily to see the issue of the Project, was not far from them, but looking out, saw a heap of Seamens wives at Manvels ' door, ran forthwith to see what was the matter and after a little inquiry learned how the matter was. Well (quoth he) such People ought to be punished without mercy who violate their Husband's beds. It were a sin in the highest nature to conceal it; and those who would keep such things from the knowledge of Justice deserve as much themselves. But little needed he to urge the matter much, for that were but to teach his Grandam to eat eggs. Within an hour or two comes an Officer, whom Mrs. Manvel was fain to fee with a pledge of Jewels.  
Within 2 days after arrived Manvel from Rotterdam, and hearing what had happened was very ill at ease, wishing that h● had not taken that ●ourney, being now ashamed to show his head abroad, and restless with his wife at home. However● he resolves to ease himself of the latter, and in order thereto goes about to get a Divorce, which was granted him: Upon which he returns his wife her Dowry reserving but a very mean Portion for himself.  
Diomedes, although in some regard sufficiently revenged, yet was not satisfied with this but soon after put another thing in practice.  
He had acquaintance with one Luke a Wine-couper, who had been privy to the most part of his Roguery when he sold wine himself: to him he imparted his design, and promised to hold him harmless and run the Risque himself, if he would but undertake the Act. Luke was herewith content; and according to the Instructions of Diomedes went to Manvel, proffering him a bargain of Rhenish wine; which he told him he would afford him cheaper than the common Price, because he had occasion for ready money. Manvel then seeing the man in a straight; thought to make a prize of him, went with him to his Cellar, where he tasted of several Hogsheads and before he came away struck a bargain with him for three thousand Gilders, to be delivered and paid that night. Manvel then goes to make room for the Wine in his Cellar, and Luke in the mean time removes those Hogsheads which Manvel had bought, out of their place, and put others in their room, which were filled with sour wine, and in every tun was a pipe made of Latin, cunningly fastened in the inside. These were filled with Gunpowder, and match fastened to the Ends thereof, being of a considerable length from the powder, that it could not burn so as to give fire for some considerable time. By that time the Wine-couper had laid his Machine, Manvel comes in with the money, which was paid and received according to the purport of the Bargain. When he had got the Wine home, and set in order in the Cellar, he went to Supper, where he had scarcely sitten a quarter of an hour, but he heard a fearful cracking, and the house fell a shaking. Upon this he was not a little altered; yet thinking, because it was hot weather, that it might be thunder, he sent one of his men to see if his Warehouse windows were to; for that side next the street was stowed with Flax. But by that time his Servant was got to the innerdoor, the greatest pipe took fire which made all fly about; the hoops were broken to shivers, and the floor of the Parlour where they sat at Table, broke through, being directly over the Cellar where the Tuns were; and at once broke all his Porceleyn, and a costly Looking-glass.  
Diomedes longing to hear of the issue and effect of the machine, goes to a public house hard by, where he had not been above half an hour before he heard it crack and thunder, and suddenly saw the whole street in an alarm, none knowing what was the matter. Diomedes together with those that were in the house ran whither they judged the report came from, and found the Warehouse door of Manvel open, with a multitude of people at a distance not da●ing to come anigh it, much less so courageous as to enter in, till such times as they saw Manvel with two of his men come trembling down stairs, with a candle in the one hand and a Crucifix, or an Agnus Dei in the other. But before Manvelius was come to the middle of the stairs he fell down through the steps (the staircase being all shattered lose with the force of the Powder) where he was up almost to the middle, in leckage of the wine, crying out, help! help! I drown, I sink, I drown, I sink, upon which one of his men which thought to pull him out came also tumbling down upon him, the candle falling out of his hand. Manvelius hereat surprised witted not what to think, but supposing it had been the Devil began to lay about, which the man took so well out that he paid him again in the same coin, in short, they banged it about with such courage that had not the other man come hastily with another candle lighted, they had both smothered in Wine. Diomedes, who to his heart's contentment, was all this while a spectator of the scene, had almost lost his breath with laughing, and to give Manvel a hint, cried out, If a man were indeed so zealous to fight the Devil, he would scorn his help in cheating of honest men. Manvelius not able to creep through the way he came, (the dimension of his Gut-case being with the thickest) was fain to go out at the street door, partly because of his being tipsy with tumbling in Old Rhenish, hardly able to steer his Cou●se, and partly because of the Rabble that crowded about the door. He was no sooner come out, but the people being inquisitive how it came, and what was the matter: when he to satisfy their curiosity told all he knew of the thing. Diomedes among the rest hearing all, it so tickled his fancy, that he could hardly contain himself of laughter, which he endeavoured to bridle so well as he could, to prevent suspicion.  
Manvelius upon this gets an Ague which kept him in his bed: finding out in the mean time the trick which was put upon him by the bursten pipes, match and smell of powder; and for the same summons the wine merchant to appear before the Magistrate, who could not deny the fact, but refers himself to Diomedes, who being likewise sent for, denied to know any thing of the matter, but wholly pretending ignorance, the Wine-merchant received Sentence of Banishment and a Fine, by which means he was utterly ruined.  
Diomedes had a Cousin married to one Ambrose with whom he held a long correspondence, and had a great kindness for. About these happened an odd passage, which I hold not impertinent to insert here, being both comical and ridiculous. This Ambrose her husband was one, who had but little value or esteem for the world, unless for its Mousture, being deeply in Love with l'eau de vie, or Brandy. Mrs. Anthonette, that was the Gentlewom●ns name, was reasonably fair, and might pass for a beauty, but never could get the ascendant of her husband, who was more inclined to Bacchus than Venus. This beastly life of his made her almost weary of Life. Never came he in without a Guide, and whether she Carded or Spun at home, he was sure to Reel abroad: and when he was come home must be lifted into bed. Anthonette would often admonish him to leave off these tiresome and dishonourable Courses, where by he did not only lose his reputation amongst men, and make her a Mockingstock to her Neighbours, but ran headlong into ruin, and would at last reduce himself and her into such a condition, as would render their Lives uncomfortable. But this rather provoked his Wrath than Amendment: insomuch that he told her that if she did not desist and let him alone he would in place of spending a penny spend a pound, and for the future take a greater liberty than he had hitherto done. Mrs. Anthonette seeing that he was already without the bounds of reason, imparted her grievance to Diomedes praying him, if he knew any Council for her, or a mean to draw him from this lose course of Life. Diomedes was (as appears by our foregoing discourse) subtle enough in invention, and resolute in putting a thing into practice, promised to do his best and assist her when he met with an opportunity, which would be best, when he came home drunk again.  
It was not needful that he should wait long for that Occasion, for it was almost a miracle to find him sober at night. She therefore prays Diomedes, to do it so soon as he could: and accordingly he promised that night he would. Anthonette stood at her door in the Evening waiting for her husband, whom at length she saw at a distance; surveying the breadth of the streets, with a train of boys after him, who convoyed him to his door: where being come he compliments his wife after his old mood, with his hat to the ground, and a hundred base los manos, till at last stumbling upon a great stone, he lay as flat as a Flounder. Anthonette seeing him lie so, prayed her Neighbours to help him in a doors, where they tugged and wrestled, till they got him into the Parlour. This done she sends her maid to Diomedes, who without delay came and found friend Ambrose in the condition we left him in. Diomedes gave order to unharness him which was accordingly done. When he was stripped, he wrapped him up in a Winding Sheet, and lay him handsomely in an old sugar Chest and carried him down into the Cellar, where they stopped all the windows close that he could see no light; and tied an English Water-dog to his feet. That done they went up. Anthonette put herself into deep mourning, which she had upon the Death of her Father. Diomedes took a Goats hid which he fastened about his body, that was so neatly contrived, that one would have taken him for a Devil, or at best a Monster. Two persons more were hired, to complete the Stage, whereof one of them was put into another che●t, like a Coffin, at a small distance from Ambrose: the other was like Diomedes shrouded in a Goats-skin. When they were in their Acting ga●b, they went down into the Cellar, and lay some lose grains of powder about the Chest in which the merry Ambrose lay, and ever now and then tilted up the Coffin at both ends, letting it fall down again with a great force: the other that was to represent a Corpse, all the time upon a heap of wood in the Corner. Anthonette caused her maid to dress herself in an ugly Robe, made of old rags of divers colours, with a black long snouted visage. And artificial breasts made of two bags of sand, which hung down to her middle. When all this was done they began to dance round about the Chest, roared and yelled so long till he awoke, which when they perceived, the two mock-devils ran and embraced him, rubbing their snaky wiggs against his cheeks, which put him into such a Sweat that all he had about him was as wet as if it had lay in water, fain would he look up but durst not move or stir, for Diomedes looked at him so grim, as the Devil over Lincoln, and he with his eyes fixed upon Diomedes durst not look another way, for fear the Devil should take him for a living soul. While they stood gazing at one another, the other Devil in forma came, and threw half a dozen live-eels into the Coffin which began to creep up and down over his whole body and face; yet durst he not cry out or stir, for Diomedes had him so fast in his eye that he held him strictly in awe. When this was done, they put fire to the lose grains of Powder, which flew all into a flame round about him. This caused some alteration & made him cry out, Ick bid u doch, Here Duyvel, so ghy de Man 〈◊〉 diemen so veel lof van sprec●t, seght mijn daar ick ben, en ho dat ick hire ●ome te gera●en. Derschoont my doch that ick die urppostighept gebruycke am U. E. aen te spreken, want ick ben een uroome Hollander, en betale daar ick schuldigh ben; selves mijn Waardinne in't Schilt van Vranckrijck, die de meeste had te pretendeeren, heb ick tot den vytersten duyt betaalt. That is, Good Mr. Devil, if you be the Gentleman I have heard so much talk of, do me the favour to tell me where I am, or how I came hither, and please to pardon the liberty I take to ask you, for I am an honest Hollander, and pay my debts. My very Landlady at the French Arms, I have paid to a farthing which was the greatest sum I owed. In this dreadful Pickle he lay panting, but could not screw an answer from his Devilship. At last he prayed they would let him go away. You fool (said the other that lay in the Corner) do you think that we shall ever come out of Hell? no, no. Remember how often you have called out, Den Duyvel haalt my, The Devil fetch me, and now you see what a sad condition you are in, and how he has once got you in his clutches. You have wholly dedicated your precious time to drinking, and shall ere long, see the reward of such impious courses as you have made choice of, and have leisure to wish you might live the time again, when all will be to no purpose. I am in the same condition you are in, and would (were it in my power) give ten thousand Worlds to live my time again: but to little purpose is my wish; my opportunity I have lost, which can never be recalled, and the golden minutes I was so prodigal of, are a greater Hell to me, than Hell itself as thou poor caitif, ere long, shalt be made sensible of, on thy behalf. Ambrose hearing that really believed that he was dead and already before the Postern of Hell. After he had lay in this condition an hour or more; the two Devils took him up, the one by the head, and the other by the heels, made him fast with ropes, and so dragged him to a Post, where they bond him so, that he could neither move hand nor foot: which done they took each a whip, that was made for the purpose, and one of them with a hoarse voice bade him confess his Offences. He seeing them in good earnest, began to mutter it out by degrees. The first was his Drunkenness, as that he now and then took a cup of the Creature, more than did him good, That he had abused the good counsel of his wife, who had many times forewarned him of Perils continually attending both body and soul. That drinking sometimes with a Goodfellow, or two, when they went aside, he would clandestinly drink off a glass, wripe his mouth, and fill it again. That he had several times and in several places lay with such and such Gentlewomen. This Anthonette overhearing had hardly the Patience to hold her tongue, being now ascertained of what she was theretofere never jealous of. When they had wrought with him so long as they could, and that he could confess no more; They let him done gently, and brought a bottle of Brandy, which they tempered with Opium, and Diacodium; adding a little spirit of Hartshorn and Assa foetida; the first to make him sleep, and the latter, by way of circumstance to suit the Place, and Condition of the Patient. This Potion they forced him to drink, which at first he was unwilling to do, yet when they threatened to commit him to the Flames he quaffed it off, hoping by his obedience, now, to be excused another time. This having done he was again drunk, and by the vigour and virtue of the sleeping Ingredients, fell into a deep slumber. Which being effected they brought him up into his own bed, and drew off their Infernal Robes, and put on Terrestrial Garbs. Anthonette remained still in her mourning Weed, and one of her Assistants put on a moodish suit, suitable to a Gentleman of Quality, who was to represent a Bridegroom and the other who was to be his Friend. Diomedes was also in sleight mourning, being cousin to Anthonette as was said before, and Appolonia served at Table. When they were all set, they began to dance and make a great noise, which at length, though hardly, awakened Ambrose, who was in a thousand troubles when he thought upon what had happened, sometimes would endeavour to persuade himself that it was only a dream or whimsy, and would vanish in time; yet again that it must assuredly be real, by the Wounds and boils he had about his body; and seeing the face of things quite altered, it confirmed his belief the more. At last seeing Glasses go round briskly, and his Anthonette, drinking to every one respectively began to cry out, Oh Good friends have a care what you do, and listen a little to what has happened to me. Hardly had he opened his mouth, but all rose from the Table, and began to shriek out, as if they had been indeed amazed, one running this way, and another that way, and finally every one out of the Chamber Anthonette only excepted, who fell down upon the floor, as if she had sounded away. This Ambrose marking durst not rise up to help her, fearing to make her worse but begins to call out to the maid, Appolonia, Appolonia, no maid makes answer, Anthonette lies still, and Ambrose lay still in his bed, musing on what was past, being all in a sweat; till at last by the virtue of the Potion he fell into a slumber again, and consequently into a deep sleep. This Anthonette observing, she ran out softly and thanked the respective persons for their service and caused the maid to uncover the Table in the dark, without making the lest noise, and so pulling off her Mourning Weed, went to bed, to her husband, sleeping by him a good part of the next day.  
When Ambrose awaked, saw it was day, and found his wife by his side, was in a hundred quandaries, not knowing what to say, or think. At last he began to push his wife till she awaked, and asked her, how she came there; and, If she was not afraid to have a Ghost to her bedfellow. Anthonette hearing him speak with such an absolute zeal, could hardly contain herself of laughter. Prithee my Dear, (quoth she) what dost mean? Do you go about to make me laugh, or to put me in a fright. I beseech you explain yourself, and I shall perhaps answer your expectation and design, Upon this he asked her, If he was not lately dead and she about to marry with another? This coming so seriously from him made her laugh whether she would or no: yet made as if she looked upon this as mere dotage, and the effects of wine. Ambrose still held on in this discourse, and did all he could to asseverate the passages which he imagined to have truly happened, from whence Anthonette concluded, that the Stratagem had had a good success. Pursuing his discourse after some few ejaculations, he began to express sincere intentions of repentance, and to become a new man, saying, Oh, that the Heavens would but grant this one thing, That I might always persevere and remain in this good purpose of Life, I should never so far forget myself as to do those things, which I am now sensible tend to eternal destruction. But, alas! what remedy? or, what helps my bare and simple wish, my time is past, and I am now bound to go on a long journey, for which to my grief I am unprepared. More he endeavoured to speak but could not for weeping. Which, with these expressions pleased her to the heart, hoping for the future, to enjoy a peaceable life, with our new Convert: and seeing him in such a perplexity began to drive the thing out of his head, and assured him that he was still alive, and that he had perhaps been in a Trance, which might probably have been for a happy warning, and to make him sensible of his condition and of the state he was in, by suffering himself to be so drawn aside with ill company, and letting lose the reins of his lust and libidinous propensity, which every man is inclined to by nature, and the like. But say what she could, he could hardly believe but that the thing was real, and that he had verily been tormented, for it was already high light day, and he in his perfect senses, yet had still the wounds about him; and to be short he became for the time a pure Convertit, and fully resolved with himself, to be more circumspect in his actions, and never again to bathe in the Sea of Bacchus, lest he should chance to drown in the Abyss of Pluto: and so effectual was this mean hat● although his own wife (who before had work enough to restrain him) had offered him Wine, he would not so much as once taste it; nay, so abominable was it to him that he could neither endure to see or smell it: his Tossing off whole Bowls, was now turned to a nauseous Vomiting, and the charming Delights of good liquor changed into a detestable and loathsome Abhorrency.  
Five full years continued this passage in great privacy, before Ambrose discovered the Trick, for it was done with the knowledge of too many persons to be always concealed, or held under the Rose: at what time (by I know not what pickthank) he was informed how his wife with the help of some others, had deluded him; which nevertheless his fury was in some manner too strong for him to bridle, yet being sensible of what he had confessed at the whipping post, he held fast the Rains of his wrath, lest he should be twitted of his belluin actions: and had by that time so learned to lord over his passions, that he rather thought it his duty to content himself with the effects of that machine, how unkindly soever he might take it from their hands who had been the cause of this his odd Conversion.  
This Amsterdamnable Gusman having once in his life done evil that good came of it, met once suddenly again with another opportunity to do himself good, which was on this wise:  
Not long after this Masquerade he applies himself to an eminent Merchant of Amsterdam, whose chief Traffic was in the Straits and at Greenland, whither he sent every year several Ships: of this same Merchant he bought, to the value of 3600. gilders in Train and Whale-bone, besides 800. gilders in Rice, which he promised to pay upon delivery, for which purpose he repairs to the House of Mr. vander Ha'— the said Merchant, with a bag of money, where the Goods were delivered. Diomedes tendered him the money, amounting to 4400. gilders, for which the Merchant signs an acquittance. Now Diomedes in the mean time had a Comrade of his by him all the time, whom he had instructed in what he was to do. Seeing now his opportunity, he calls the Merchant aside, as if he had an earnest to impart to him, where he held him up with an invented story, while the other clandestinly takes up the bags and acquittance, and steals away.  
When Diomedes saw all effected he walks demutely back again with the Merchant into the Counting house, where the Merchant coming sees the Money and Paper gone, began to rage and stamp like mad, not knowing what to do in the case, but at last calling to mind, such another prank Diomedes had played, of which some had given him an inkling, immediately without more ado charges the matter home upon him, and taxed him for the Thief. Diomedes highly incensed at the affront began to give him scurvy language, which was again retaliated; in short to high words they came, and finally Diomedes gave him a challenge, which Mr. vander Ha'— refused not to answer, so to't they went, where Diomedes, being an experter swordman, gave him a prick under the left pap, which he judging to be mortal, took him to his heels, and away for Paris, to avoid the danger that was incumbent on him.  
Mr. vander Ha'— in the mean while lies wallowing in his blood, is found by some who knew him and brought home, three Surgeons are immediately sent for, who having made inspection into the wound, concluded the good Gentleman past recovery; however use their utmost diligence to cure him, and at last by their joint care and skill, brought him so far up, that he was judged past all danger.  
Diomedes who knew no better but that his Antagonist was dead, kept himself very privately at Paris, till all his money was spent for by reason of his sudden departure, he could not take more with him than a little gold he had in his pocket. Seeing now that all his money was gone, he resolves to list himself among a company of Padders, having already got into acquaintance with a Captain of the Gang, who upon his intimation gave him free admission, with this proviso, That he should first show his proof by way of Trial, or examen, wh●ch he essayed and with good success, as you shall presently understand.  
Now by reason of the unhappy circumstances he had involved himself into, he went under the name of Monsr. de Villeneuf, which name we purpose to make use of to denote his Worship in the sequel.  
Monsr. de Villeneuf went into a noted Ordinary, where several of the young Nobility did customarily meet once a week, where being come, and looking like a Person of no indifferent quality, sat himself down among those Gentlemen, and being in the crowd, when they first began to take their places, none took occasion to question how he came there; for besides their civility for the better convenience of the House, strangers are admitted at the Request of the Landlord, every one thought he might probably be an acquaintance of some one in the company, and therefore unwilling to put any affront upon him, not knowing whose displeasure that they might incur by so doing. To come more to the matter, Monsr. de Villeneuf, observes, when (as the manner of that Ordinary is) the Guests gave money into a silver Charger for the use of the Poor, which went round the Table; that a Gentleman who sat at his right hand had a velvet Purse well charged with Pistols: This Purse made his Teeth to water, and like a Loadstone had such an attractive virtue that it turned his eye what wa● soever it turned its self.  
When the Meal was over the Gentleman risen from Table, and took his leave of the company. Monsr. de Villeneuf seeing him go, posts away after him, to see if he could bring his purpose about, and accordingly closes up with him, saying; Sir, I perceive by your discourse at Table, that you have a desire to buy two Coach-horses, There is an acquaintance of mine, who has a brace of Flanders-Mares, which if you have a mind to see I will give him notice of it, that he may wait upon you, at what time and place you are pleased to appoint. Monsr. de Molineaux (for that was the Gentleman's name) hearing him say so, made answer? Sir, 'tis true, I have 4, or 5 days inquired but cannot hear of any according to my mind, and if you can bring me to sight of those two Mares, you will infinitely oblige me, yet believe me, Sir, I should be loath to put you to so great a trouble; but wherein I may serve you, vouchsafe but to command and your injunction shall be obeyed. Villeneuf replies that it was no more than his duty to serve him, the more because his supposed acquaintance had desired him to recommend his bargain: and so prayed him to go along with him to a Cabaret hard by, promising to send for his friend thither. To this Molineaux assents; where being come Villeneuf writes to his Comrades, under notion of writing about what he had intimated to Molineaux. After he had done he stepped aside to give it a Boy who was to carry it, according to his directions. The sense of the Letter was thus:  
I have met with a Cully, do you therefore come as Officers and arrest him as a Malefactor, 'tis a fat bird and for our turn, further directions I need not give, Sat sapientibus dictum puto, but what other instructions shall be necessary, I judge it time enough when you make your appearance. The World is turned over the moon.  
The note was larger but abstruse: however so perspicuous to them as they understood his meaning, and accordingly came; one representing an Officer of Justice, the rest his Dogs, or Followers. So soon as they came in, they siezed the person of Molineaux, in presence of Villeneuf who made as if he had been mightily astonished at the matter, and showed himself greatly concerned for him, desiring them not to be so uncivil as to drag a Gentleman out of the house at that rate. Monsr. Molineaux prays them to tell him what was the matter, and upon what account they arrested him, with all desiring them to advise the matter better together, and bethink themselves, whether he was the person, or no, that they came to look for. The Officer with a dreadful look tells him, that he, and none else, was the Person they looked for, Come, come, added he, you would pretend ignorance, would you? are not you acquainted with such and such men [naming some of an infamous gang, and himself for one] and are you ignorant of such and such a cheat? Monsr. Molineaux swore and protested he never was acquainted with that gang of Rogues, neither did he know any thing of those cheats. However notwithstanding all those asseverations, the Officer commanded the men to tie him fast, as they would have done, only Villeneuf prays them that he might have the liberty to speak a word with him apart, to which the Officer gave his consent. Villeneuf therefore calls him aside and discourses him after this manner; Sir, I cannot enough condole your present trouble into which you are fallen, but if I can be Bail for you, I will, rather than that you should be carried through the streets, which may tend to your dishonour, well knowing (although my acquaintance with you has not been long) that you are a Person of such worth, as that you cannot but be universally known, only I desire to have some security for myself, which if I should demand upon such an account I hope you will not take ill out, since you have that by you, which will do it. Monsr. Molineaux thanks him for his great civility, withal telling him that he was content, and prayed him to accept of the Purse of Gold if that would satisfy him. Well (replies Villeneuf,) I hope that the matter will not prove so difficult after they find it a mistake, and I question not on the other hand (since the Officer knows me) but that he will accept of my Bail; and with that steps toward him, and offered his Bail. At first he seems to scruple, saying, that he knew not whether he might do it or not with safety; But, added he, for the honour of you Monsr. Villeneuf, I am content to hazard the matter, being you seem to have knowledge of him. Villeneuf having promised upon his parole to make him forthcoming, the mock-Constable took his leave of him and went out, leaving them two together.  
When they were gone Villeneuf began to ask him, what was the matter? to whom the Gentleman replies, that he knew no more what it was than of his Deaths-day, but that he was sure it was a mistake. If I might be sure of that, (quoth he) I would go myself and discourse the Officer about it, for albeit I am satisfied as to your being wronged, yet people you know are always apt to sustain and harbour a bad opinion of any man, than a good, and the whitest walls we see are the soon stained. To be brief, he desired him to stay a little and he would go and speak with him, and if he did not return within an hour, that he should go to such a Cabaret in St. Honory street, and there inquire for him, which Monsr. Molineaux promised to do. Villeneuf in the mean time, goes to his Comrades and tells them that at such a time, he was to bring him a sum of money for his security, naming when and where, which was the same time and place he thought they would find the Gentleman, praying them to meet him at that time there. This done Villain-enough trips off and went for Rovan, where he imbarques himself for Middleburg, having got 800. and odd Pistols to bear his charges thither.  
Monsr. Molineaux whom he had left behind beginning too late to distrust the Cheat, resolves with himself to go out and see if he could hear of Villeneuf, but the Landlord, seeing him offer to go forth, takes him by the shoulder and bade him pay before he went, which he was fain to do. Coming to the House where Villeneuf had appointed him, he inquired for him: but not hearing of him, and he now waited a good while for him, began to distrust the matter, and at last makes his mind known to the Landlady of the House; who imparted the matter to her Husband, her Husband to other Friends then in the House, who all concluded it to be a Cheat. Whilst they were busy in talking, comes the Fellow who had played the Officer, and five or six of the gang with him, and asked for Villeneuf. The Landlady knew that was the name of the Bail, and prayed them to go up to him above stairs, which they did, but entering the Room they found that they had got a wrong Sow by the tail, and would have run out again, but the Man of the House shut to the street door, and would not suffer them; till having sent for an Officer, they were apprehended, and committed to Prison, where they remained till they received their Trial in the criminal Chamber. The Ringleader himself had both his ears cut off, and burned in the shoulder with a Flower de Luce. The rest only scourged a little, except two which had been before convicted of enormous crimes in Picardy, were sent to Marseilles to tug at the Oars.  
Diomedes now arrived at Middleburg durst not go for Amsterdam before he had heard how squares went there, and whether Mr. vander Ha'— was recovered: He therefore sent to a trusty Friend of his to inquire for him: who sent him word that the wound, though at first judged mortal, was well cured, and that there was no danger of recidivation; Upon this his Rogueship returns for Amsterdam, without fear of such courses as his Creditors which he had so balked would take, so soon as they had notice of his arrival, which indeed would have fallen out sour enough if it had not just happened to be in the Vacation time; However when the Vacation was done they began to ba●● him like a Bear at the stake, till he was fain to make his escape, as shall be hereafter said.  
After he had been a day or two in Amste●dam, he went to visit an old friend he had at Haarlem, and with one to give him a Dun. But hardly was he got out of the Gates, before he was espied by a Mercer, who had about three years before sold him to the value of 800. gilled. in Silks and Tissue, which money he could never get. This Gentleman seeing Diomedes posted after him as fast as he could, taking two friends along with him who were well mounted, and just then upon a journey for Flanders, for which reason the Mercer was to convoy them a part of the way. So soon as Diomedes with the passage Boat arrives at Haarlem, the Mercer follows him to see where he would go in, and there arrested him. He now under arrest, knew not any evasion, but was fain to pay down the money which was almost the last of his Gold, which he brought with him from Paris. This done he was set free again, and the Mercer glad to get his money went with his company to Leyden, where he took his leave of them.  
Diomedes in the mean while, goes to his Debtor, whom he found not at home, and was fain for that time to be content. But bethinking himself of a sum he had owing him at Amersfoort, he betakes himself thither.  
Coming into a certain Village near the City he takes up his lodging there, for he having once played a foul Trick at Amersfoort, durst not venture himself in the Town, but sent a note to the Person who ought him the money, praying to speak with him. The man received his Letter, sent him answer that he would come, as the day following he did, being come Diomedes prays him that he would please to pay the money: But the man who was not in a capacity to pay it, prayed him, to have patience 14 days and he would pay him the most part of the sum. Diomedes seemed very unwilling, but knowing that he durst not sue him, because of the bad circumstances he was under, which, if he had made the lest stir or appearance would have turned to mischief; and on the other hand, was sensible how cases stood at home, resolves to content himself with his promise, and spend that time in the Village. He called briskly for wine and was attended after the best manner, till his money was up. When the 14 days were expired, he sends to his Debtor at Amersfoort who prayed him to stay a week longer for his money, and he would faithfully pay him all, giving him some likely and probable reasons, whence he might gather that there was some apparency of reality in the man. Diomedes, though sore against his will, was fain to take all in good part, for the aforesaid reasons, and when the time came about, he sends again but word was brought him that his Debtor was marched of and had taken all his moveables with him, which so vexed Diomedes, that he was ready to hang himself, that he should be so chouced with the man, and besides his tedious journey; to run himself into debt at his Lodging. Every time Diomedes risen from Table, his Landlady looked for her money; who seeing nothing come but a few airy Castles, at last assumed the boldness to ask him when he thought to pay her, Diomedes told her that the next day he would receive some money for a bargain of Wine he had sold to a Vintner, and upon the receipt of that money he would pay her. She distrusting, the rather because he sent and received several Letters, to & from Amersfoort, contented herself with that answer. The next day, the Landlady perceiving him to deal in Wine, prayed him to show her the way to purify Claret; Diomedes gives her some instructions in writing, which he protested cost himself a great deal of money in France. He told her besides that he had a way of making one Pipe or Vessel yield two sorts of Wine; as by example, If it be a Hogshead of white Wine that it would run both white and claret from the same Vessel, at two several Cocks, as distinct and different both in taste and colour, as if it were two sorts of Wine. The Landlady prays him to teach her that art, saying that she was a poor woman, and burdened with a charge of children, and by her late Husband's negligence brought into so much debt, as she was never able to pay. Diomedes, at first seemed to scruple, saying, it was a mystery that only another besides himself in all the 17. Provinces knew: However, said he, I shall tell you on condition that you will swear upon your honesty never to reveal it. This she promised to do, and told him that she would reckon him the Centre of her happiness ever after Well, quoth Diomedes, Then at night we will try it, at what time you shall send your Maid of an errand, and we in the mean while will get all things in a readiness. The evening being come, The Landlady sends out the Maid on a sleeuless errand, which she thought would cost her an hour or two at ; Diomedes provides himself with an auger to pierce the Cask, and a paper or two of Powders, which must be the Ingredients, and so calling his Landlady into the Cellar falls a boring: when he had bored one hole, he prayed the Woman to set her thumb to it till he had bored another, which when he had done, cries out, Good lack a day, what have I forgot? the main Ingredient I have left some where in my Chamber, which is the first that I must use, and so prayed the Landlady to stop the other hole so long with her other thumb which she did. Diomedes seeing her so hard engaged at stopping, marches softly up stairs into his Chamber, takes his Portmantle, and ruminating the House finds a Bag of money which was left to the care of the Landlady by a Butcher who was come to buy  at the Beast-market, and so trips off. The Landlady being thus employed waited a while with patience till she grew weary, gins to cry out, Where are you, Sir, if you stay much longer, the Maid will come. But no answer was made, she than calls out again, a second and a third time, still receiving no answer; whereupon she began to smell a Cheat, and fain would she go to see for him but could not leave the Cask: and in this posture she was fain to stay till her Maid comes home, who wondered to see her Mistress fast to the Cask, asked her, what was the matter? Prithee Nan says the old Woman, set your thumbs to these two holes, till I go above; The Maid relieves the Mistress, and the Mistress runs in all haste up stairs, to see for her Guest, but entering his room, finds him not, and going into another, sees her Linen and other Goods all on a heap together, cries out with a lamentable voice, Thiefs, Thiefs, I am undone, I am rob, I am undone, all I have in the world is stole. The Maid hearing her say so, forgets herself and in all haste runs up also, to see, if her new Petticoat and Linen were not stole likewise. The Woman runs up and down the House like one distracted, the more when she missed the Butcher's money, and the Maid, out in all haste to call in the Neighbours, who understanding the business got an able fellow or two to run after Diomedes, who by that time was far enough out of their reach.  
About three days after Diomedes arrives it Utrecht, it being then Horse-Fair, takes up his Lodging at an eminent Inn, not far from the Cathedral Church, and met accidentally with a young Gentleman who was a Canonic, or Dom Heer of that Place, and come thither to receive his annual Prebend. When they sat together at supper Diomedes insinuated himself into his acquaintance, and at last came to sound his concerns. The next day the Gentleman prays Diomedes to accompany him to the Fair, and (since two heads are always better than one) desired his help and judgement about a Horse. Diomedes to show that he was a man of breeding, could not be so uncivil as to deny him and so accordingly they went together. After they had viewed the Fair well, the Dom-Heer, spies one to which he took a singular liking, being both of a neat shape before and behind, and likewise an excellent ambler. The Horse he bought paying to the value of 45. pound sterl. for him, and ordered him to be brought to the Inn, where he lay, and returns with Diomedes home, where by that time he came, the Horse was brought, and set up in the stable. The next day the Gentleman asks Diomedes if he would break his fast with him, to which he easily assented; and when they had done, called for a reckoning, the Dom-Heer saddles his Gelding and makes himself ready for a journey. Diomedes seeing him lay on a heavy Portmantle behind him, thought it more than a venial offence to lose such a considerable booty, told him he would bear him company part of the way, if he would please to have the patience so long till he had hired a Horse, willing rather to ride, having such a civil Gentleman for his Fellow-traveller, than to sit in the Passage-boat such fair weather among a company of old wives. The Canonic was glad to have his fellowship, I told him he would stay for him, Diomedes immediately goes to a Hackney stable; where he, with the recommendation of the Landlord, hires an old Jade that could hardly trail her legs after her. This done they both mount, and so soon as they were got out of the Town, the Dom-Heer new phangled of his purchase, rides out to try his Gelding, which done, he prays Diomedes to dismount, and try him, which he also did, and let the Dom-Heer ride so long on his old Hackney. Diomedes now mounted on the Gelding rides a good way forward, and honestly returns again, and so a second time a little further, returning likewise. The Gentleman taking more delight to see another ride his Horse than himself, prays him to ride off again, which he did, and that so far that he never saw him since.  
Diomedes after he had left his Companion and provided himself, of a good horse and money enough was resolved to take a turn up towards Aix la Chapel and Cologn, and accordingly went through Brabant, where he played some notable Pranks, one whereof was thus.  
Coming into Louvain, he took up his lodging at the, King of Spain (one of the best Inns in the Town) where being alighted they brought his Gelding into the stable. There happening to be at that time a Colonel who had long served under the famous Mont●cu●ul●: This Colonel viewing well the horse of Diomedes, and taking a singular fancy for him; asked him if he was willing to sell him. Diomedes seemed to be unwilling, saying, that the Rijngraaf by recommendation of a Gentleman had a great mind to see him, and herefore was not willing to part with him, unless upon very good Conditions, seeing he was sure to have his Price for him. These words made the Colonel the more eager to buy him, praying Diomedes to set a Price and see if they could agree. Diomedes asks, 350 Pata●oons. The Colonel told him that was a price he thought much too high, and willed him therefore to be more reasonable. He prays the Colonel if he had a mind to try him, he should not think that too dear, wherefore he prays the Ostler to ride him out, which he did. Now said Diomedes, do you think the Price too high, believe me I am sorry that I propounded not a higher: I make no question but I shall make more money of him when I come at the Campagne, Sir (replies the Colonel) I am satisfied as to the Horse, but as touching the Price, I think much to give so great a Sum and therefore if you are not willing to give him for less I presume it will be no bargain with us. Well Sir (said Diomedes) There● no great harm done, you have your Money, and I have my Horse; and with that bids the Ostler set him up, and rub him well, etc. which he did, Diomedes returns with the Colonel to their Inn, where after supper they agreed for the Horse, the Colonel pays him 300 Rixdollars in Gold for him, and was well satisfied with his purchase. The next morning, so soon as the Gates were open, Diomedes goes out to the Stable without once reckoning with his hostess and demands his Horse of the Ostler which he had sold and already received Money for. The Ostler neither knowing nor mistrusting any thing to the contrary, but that it was his own Horse, delivers him without any scruple. Lebechea being now furnished with Money as well as with a Horse, thought it his best way to return towards Holland, and accordingly taking Machlin by the way, posts for An●wer●, where coming to the Goos Inn upon the Market, he meets with the Marquis of P— to whom he sold his Horse for the same price, and embarked himself aboard the Schuyt for Dort, and so forward to Amsterdam, leaving the Marquis and Colonel who were near kinsmen to divide the Horse or dispute their Right.  
Being now returned for Amsterdam he remained some time there unknown to his Creditors who lo●ged greedily to hear of his Arrival, and for many days together ●anging by night thro' the Town with his Cloak muffled about his ears, he was at last discerned by a neighbour of his, whom he had formerly served a dirty trick. This Person being a Broker and thence very popular, and a man of universal acquaintance, went and signified his arrival to every one he knew to be any way interested in him, upon which notice they came every day clustering delivering him Reckon; as also in the street, for so soon as he thought that most, or all of his Creditors had heard of his arrival he choosed rather to hazard his Person abroad than to lose his accustomed Recreations and Divertisements. Every day that the kind Heavens bestowed upon the World, was our Merchant pestered with Duns. Now comes the Mercer, Draper, Taylor, Embroiderer, Haberdasher, then comes the Mason, Carpenter, Smith, Painter, Carver, and Glazier, another, or perhaps the same day comes the Butcher, Poulterer, Fishmonger and Baker with Bills as Woodcocks. Nay the vast expenses which he had vainly thrown away in repairing his Country house, after his own particular fancy, did far surmount the money he purchased it for, and than it was really worth. Besides this came every day those persons which he had cheated, Leopoldus from the Hague, the Vintner of Leyden, the Ry-merchant, the Ship-Carpenter of Amsterdam, Mordechai the jew, and the Woodmonger, these coming-constantly to give attendance and wait upon his Knaveship, fell now and then into discourse together, and so summed up his Roguery, and some of those so concerned at his unjust deal that they reviled him in the open street which caused a great concourse of people and sometimes the Mobile before his doors: others who were quite worn out of patience, resolved to take a speedy course, least dallying too long they might come to late, since he had so many of those Serviteurs every morning at his door.  
It happened that some of his Creditors meeting together upon the Exchange, where they came to speak with him, agreed upon a time when they should come all together to give him a visit, amongst which was the Painter of whom he had bought 3200 gl. in Pictures, 3 Tailors, a Mercer, an Upholsterer, an Embroiderer, and others that wanted their Rent for Cellarage; these coming one day desired to speak with him; but he, as his custom was, let'em know he was not within, insomuch that they were fain to be content without effecting any thing at that time: however seeing that they could never find him at home they swore they would come every day till they received satisfaction, as accordingly they did, thronging so before the door and in the passage of his house that he could not go out, and at last forced the Fox out of his hole, where they delivered each man his account, and prayed him to peruse'em.  
On a certain morning came in so many of his Creditors that the entry of his house was full, which he understanding called in some of the Principle of them into a Room apart where he opened a Chest of Drawers and showed them several Bags of Money and asked what for coin they would be paid in; they made answer, so as he pleased. Well, said he, Gentlemen be content for this time to go away, and come tomorrow and I shall in the mean time take it into consideration. With this answer they were fain to departed; but coming the next day found him still in the same Story: For he ever let them see the Land of Promise, but would never suffer them to enter into it. These being mostly Persons of mechanical Professions could not endure any longer to be balked, but resolved to proceed against him at law, and see if that would be more effectual than Threats and Flatteries.  
Soon after comes Leopoldus from the Hague who had sold him 12000. gl. in Actions, and the Ship-Carpenter who had pretence of 4666 gl. upon him, the Corn-Merchant Jerome to whom he was owing 69160 gl, and Mordecai the jew, who came in for 82000 gl. more; these all unanimously went and made their Address to the Upper-Judge, who hearing these various complaints, could not but add credit to their Demonstrations, they being Persons of that worth, and Gentlemen of honest Fame; insomuch that these Enormities made Diomedes so black, that the Officer of Justice could not but take notice of him as a great Criminal as well for Cheating, Forging of Writings, etc. as for Fight and Bloodshed, with many such like abuses: Insomuch that he watched his opportunity to apprehend him and commit him to custody having already an old claim against him for a delinquency already mentioned. Diomedes beginning to smell a Rat, thought good to pack up his Auls and be gone, taking with him 10000 gilled. in Gold and about 36000 gilled. in Jewels, which he had to that end bought to supply himself in time of need: besides 18000 gild. in Money and Jewels which he hide some where about Haarlem, thinking that if he should prove infortunate, that might be his Friend in Extremity. This done lie posts away through Rotterdam and so on for Middleburg, where he took up his lodging in an Inn, thinking there to rest a little after a wearisome Journey.  
He had with him only one Person to wait upon him, who spoke very good English, judging him as serviceable upon his intended Journey, which was for England. His whole purpose he imparts to Harry (for that was his man's name) and what his resolution was: Harry in the mean time (having acquaintance with Leopold's Page) writes to him and detects the whole concern; the Page thought it his duty to intimate the matter to his master, shows him the Letter. Leopold upon this notice went with all possible speed for Middleburg, where Diomedes lay wind-bound, and charges the Praetor or Baliff of the Town with him, who went instantly with the Dienaers and siezed him, being so drunk that he was not able to stand; insomuch that they were fain to arrest a Fellow with a wheel-barrow to carry him along, which after they had first made him fast, they did, being guarded by hundreds of the Rabble, and an infinite Train of Boys, who were very inquisitive what the matter was that such a Gallant should be so meanly coached.  
Diomedes all this while was not sensible whither they brought him, being so drunk that he had not the use of his senses. Thus hurried away, he was put into a Dungeon where having got a little Sleep he awaked; and not knowing any thing of the matter could not devise where he was got, for all was dark. In this amazement he began to grope here and there, where still he could feel nothing but the bare Walls, and looking about him could not see any thing, which made him doubt whether he were blind, or that it came by the vigorous effects of the Wine. At last he began to cry out▪ but the more he cried the worse perplexed he was, for no answer was made. Thus remaining in a quandary a thousand doubts and Imaginations possessed his mind, till at length he falls asleep again and so remained till it was day, at what time he discovered by the light of a little hole that he was for that time enjoined to take Chamber-air. But all this time he could hardly persuade himself that the thing was real, but would fain impose upon his thoughts that he only dreamed, and that it was a mere Fantasy occasioned from the Threats, of those he had gulled at Amsterdam. This continued for some time till at last he saw clearly there was no deception in the case, but that he was surely fast. His negligence he relented now more than his Actions, which were the occasion of this his misery, and the loss of his money vexed him more than that of his Reputation: but seeing that Repentance was now an hour too late, and all his complaints to no purpose, he gins to hunt out for a place to make his escape by. After much▪ ●eeking he espied a hole which was very high, and thwarted with massy grates, so that it was impossible for him to come out that way: he therefore began to examine his Pockets to see if he had money enough to bribe the Jailor or Turn-key, and so that way to give them the slip, but he found they had taken away almost all the money he had about him, only the Jewels they had left him which were stitchd up in his Drawers. These he offered the Jailor's man that brought him meat; but he considering that his place was of more consideration than the Jewels (according to all the judgement he had) and the Penalty greater than both, he durst not hearken to him lest he should be tempted, insomuch that Diomedes grew desperate of ever coming out that way, and was fain to comfort himself on the best wise he could and with hopes of Mercy.  
After a few days he came to Trial, and found that his Creditors were all acquainted with his Condition, and had made instance to have him brought to Amsterdam, amongst whom the Head-Officer of that City principally appeared, that there he might receive his condign punishment according to the enormous feats he had committed there, and therefore most fitting there to be a public Example. Diomedes seeing no sufficient evidence, in Court, denies all, and was thereupon remanded back to prison till further and clearer proof could be made, by Witness of Affidavits from Amsterdam. Being now secured the second time, his greatest fear was that those of Amsterdam would prevail in their Demands, and get him thither, where he being palpably guilty of so many enormities would hardly come off with his life, or that perhaps coming to have a second hearing, cases would appear so dirty that he might for better security be clapped into shakles, and have a pair of Iron garters bestowed upon him; resolved therefore to lose no time or opportunity, nor spare for pains to get out of his cage: and in order thereto sounds the Privy, which he found to his purpose, and in the dead time of the night, began to dive where he was almost smothered in Filth, and having traveled so far till he met with the common shore could not see which way to go, nor meet with any soul to show him the way. Many Cross-pipes and conveyances he found, but either he could not find an Entry, or else the mussin too narrow to receive his body: however, the hardest Invention is acquirable, and nothing so difficult, but may be accomplished by Time, Patience and Industry. He hearing a great noise, which he perceived might be about 20 steps behind him, and making towards the place it was warm water which he presumed some had thrown down the house of Office, to purge it, and finding the pipe of a sufficient wideness, endeavoured to force himself through. After a long pinching and squeesing of his body, in he goes, and found it ever wider and wider till he got up so high that he could teach the seat, where groping to find the hole, feeled a pair of warm Buttocks, which happened to be a Gentlewoman, who was newly set. The Gentlewoman feeling, some body finger her Flesh behind, and not dreaming of our subterranean Passenger, shrieks out and ran away in all haste, hardly daring to look behind her.  
Our Pioneer seeing the Lady in such a fright, cried out; Madam, please to excuse me that in stead of handling your Breaosts I have through a mistake seized upon your Buttocks: Neither think that I come to do you any harm, for I am an honest man, and under hopes of Privacy and Concealment am come to seek protection under your Roof, which I hope after a full hearing of my deplorable state your Ladyship will vouchsafe to grant me.  
He began first to relate a mixed story of Truth and Lies, as my Grandmother used to give me a medicine against worms, which of its self, was bitter, she was wont to sweeten the Cup about the edges with honey, or temper it with sugar to make it more palatable. First he tells her how that of his kind nature he had been surety for some of his Relations, and upon their Failing he was fain to pay their Debts; and at such and such times he had losses by sea, & bad Debtors, insomuch that he had been frequently in Extremities, which had compelled him to do some things which his good Conscience would not dispense with, and in sum he had paid 15. times his real Estate upon such unfortunate Occasions, and was at that instant Debtor in 260000 gilled. and had on the contrary Credit 220000 gilled. which he did not doubt but one Adventure or two would make good, and assopiate the differences which lay between him & injured Persons.  
This can did Confession did not in the lest startle the constant Olympia, who had rather disburse a greater sum, than to break squares with him, who had already insinuated himself so ●ar into her Breast that for better or worse she was resolved to embark herself with him into what Ease or Trouble the Fates should involve him in, and promised him to make good his Accounts, in case he would deliver the remnant of his Capital into her hand. To this Diomedes freely assents, and so the Troth was mutually sealed and confirmed on both sides with many Expressions and Protestations of stabilily.  
The day approaching, our Terrae filius, having regard to his security consulted with his new Mistress, what course was to be taken for the point of Safety: and in sum it was thought advisable to be jogging before break of day to a place, which she had appointed him, and to commit his affairs into the hand of some trusty Solicitor, or other, who might make the streets passable for his Worship.  
The next morning being come, the Jailor opens the Prison door misses Diomedes, which startled him so that he was ready to kill himself, or the first person that came nigh him; yet bethinking that it was a vanity to lay violent hands upon himself, he imparted the matter to his wife, who presses upon him to acquaint the Officers of Justice with the whole Affair, and at last persuaded him to do it, upon which a scrutiny was made, and Messengers sent abroad with a Pouvoir to apprehend him, if within the Jurisdiction of the Province of Zeeland; But when he could not be heard of, the Committée for criminal affairs had a debate among themselves the Result whereof was, That the Jailor himself should be shut up and secured, in his place, suspecting that he had been bribed or corrupted by money, or fair Promises, since it could not be made appear that he had broke any way out, the Walls, Doors, Windows, Roof and Floor being all firm, without any breach: and on this wise continued the innocent Jailor, till a Person nominated by Diomedes, appeared and offered full payment to all his Creditors, who rested satisfied; only the Schout of Amsterdam, who made a large Demand, upon the criminal score; however was in process of time satisfied with a handsome sum of money, and gave Diomedes liberty to appear abroad, and negotiate his affairs wheresoever his concerns then lay.  
After they had been a while married Diomedes began to press hard upon her to get her to remove for Amsterdam, which she for her own part was very inclinable to, but as Old women are no more willing to leave the Place they have lived in all their life time, than they are willing to leave the World; so her mother Livia was as far from consenting to leave Middleburg, as she was free to their wedding. But however she was forced to yield to their humour, and assent to their marriage though sore against her Will, since the greatest part of Olympia's Estate came to her by a former husband, who bequeathed her 80000 gild. by Testament, dying but 10 days after the Marriage and about 6 months before she married with our Merchant. Thus breaking up at Middleburg she removes shop, Goods, and all to Amsterdam. Her mother also followed, and hired a house not far from her son in Law, thinking to comfort herself the remainder of her Life with the Company of her only Daughter.  
That which is bred in the bone will never out of the Flesh, a Tree that grows crooked when young cannot be bend when it grows old and sturdy. Diomedes who was so addicted to bas● and indirect deal and an irregular course of Trade from the very Cradle could not forget his old Customs and inclinations, no more than Aesop's Cat, which was by Venus transformed into a beautiful Lady, but being married and on her Nuptial Bed with her Bridegroom about a delightsome Exercise, accidentally spies a Mouse run over the Floor, immediately jumps out of the Bed, and after the mouse; at which Venus was so enraged that she transformed her into her former shape again, The sequel of my story may supply the place of a Moral. Diomedes not content with such a fair Condition, and a well settled state having at once cleared himself almost of all claims against him, got a good Estate and Married with a fair and virtuous Gentlewoman: but finding him in a new way of Trade gins to try practices that way, and makes false measures, a true and a false yard, the true to show upon examination, and the false for daily use in the shop. This way dured not very long, for his new Customers soon found one his base do and consequently went else where to market, which he perceiving took the matter into consideration, and resolved to try some other way before it was too late, and in order thereto, insinuates himself into the ●avour of the Factors of the East and West India Companies, and that so fa● that he had their Custom for goods, and the opportunity to deliver a considerable quantity of Linen, and withal received a round sum of money from both the Companies.  
Not long after came those two Gentlemen that had been security at Rotterdam for his Country house, desiring either that he would pay the remainder, or quit them of their Engagement. Olympia who knew nothing to the contrary but that all was paid, and now hearing those un welcome Tidings was mainly altered, having already paid so much money for him, upon so many occasions. Diomedes, not willing to suffer any affront or shame for so small a sum, promised to follow them in a day or two, and so to pay them in full, with which they being satisfied for that time, took their leaves of him. Within 3 days Diomedes sets forward on his Journey, and in the Passage-boat between Amsterdam and Haarlem meets with a young Gentlewoman with whom he made Acquaintance, and after a little discourse began to be very free with her, and inquisitive about her dwelling and Condition, and whether she was Maid, Wife, or Widow, to which she answered that she was unmarried and never had a husband, and that her Residence was at Haarlem, although shortly after she casually dropped out that her husband had lay 3 years sick of a Quartan Ague: From which Contradiction Diomedes observed that she was a Gamester, and consequently offered his service, which without many Ceremonies she accepted. When they were come to Haarlem, she brought him into a noted Inn in that Town, whence he concluded that she had no fast dwelling there. This being before noon Diomedes bespeaks a dinner where he treated his Miss very splendidly, having before hand concluded to pass for man and wife. After dinner they took a walk into the Woods, where they spent the Afternoon, and in the Evening return to Haarlem. After supper he asked the Landlord if their Bed was ready; answer was made, Yes, first ask them if they were man and wife, or that they must have two several Chambers, they both answered that they needed but one. The fore part of the night they spent in amorous delights, but towards the morning Diomedes falls fast asleep, which she observing, rose up very softly, and cuts off the Plate buttons of his coat, goes softly down stairs, and prays the Landlord to show her an Apothecary, pretending her husband was very sick and had not slept all the night: Madam, said the Landlord, If you have any occasion at the Pothecaries I shall send my Maid, The Gentlewoman made answer that she only wanted a lit●e Diacodium or Opium to provoke sleep: and withal told the Landlord that her husband was sometimes troubled with a Frenzy or a lightness in the head, and was used at such times to talk idly, and she was afraid that he would have one of his fits if he should not get a little rest.  
The Landlord sends the Maid with these directions who quickly returns. The Gentlewoman upon that goes softly up stairs, as if she would give it him in, and finding him still fast asleep, did not tarry any longer above than to take away suspicion of the matter. Coming down stairs prays the Landlord that if they had any business above stairs in any other Room, to make as little noise as they could, and with one desires him to deliver her the money her husband had given him to lock up, for that she must go and pay it that morning according to promise. The Landlord not in the least suspecting any thing, freely gave it her. She now having got so rich a Booty marches off, and was never heard of since.  
About TWO a clock Diomedes awakes and missing his Darling was afraid of what he afterwards to his sorrow found true. So soon as the Landlord hears him awake, he goes up and opens the door very softly, and sees Diomedes in a raging fit, looking upon his Coat, which was bereft of Buttons. The Landlord asks him, how he did? and how he had rested that night? Never the better for you, you Rascal. (replies he) What is the meaning of this? See here: and with that shows him the Coat. The Landlady hearing him stamp and make a noise, ran up stairs, asks her husband, what was the matter? Why Poor man! said he, he has been a pulling off the Buttons from his Coat you may see what a sad thing it is for a man to be deprived of his senses. You D●g, replies Diomedes, D'ye take me for a Mad man? O pray Sir, says the host, have Patience, and take a little rest, I hope it will shortly go over. What a pox d'ye mean? says Diomedes, what do you take me for drunk or mad Now, now, quoth the Landlord, 'Tis the Physic, Sir, that works in your head ' 'twill quickly go over. Work me no Working says he, you rogue, who has stole my Buttons? and with that reaches for his sword, which the Landlord seeing ran out of the Room as fast as he could drive, slaps to the door after him, and down stairs after his wife but she not so quick as her husband, down she tumbles and he upon her, and with the fall put her Arm out of joint. The Landlord thus perplexed was almost besides himself, and the Woman not a whit better. After he had gathered his senses together again, he bethought himself to send for a Bonesetter for his wife, in the first place, fearing her arm was really broke, and in the next place to send for 2 or 3 stouthearted men to enter the Room where Diomedes lay all the while a thundering and pelting the stools about the Chamber. When the Champions were come together the Landlord up and told them all the story; How that a Gentleman and his Lady was come there the night before, and that the Gentlewoman herself was gone out to pay some moneys in the Town, and had left him there, being possessed with a Frenzy which he was troubled with at certain times of Moon, etc. and that he had therefore sent to desire their help and advice. After the Consult was ended they went up with joint courage to visit this Bedlamite, where opening the Door found him not, for he had jumped out at a Window; which they seeing open, gathered thence that he was gone out at a back-street, so that they made no great search for him, but coming down stairs, they meet Diomedes coming in with the Substitute Schout, [or Constable] who immediately taxed the Landlord with very grievous Crimes, which being debated pro & contra they began to understand each other better than they did before. Diomedes impatient of this tedious dispute, demands the money he have him to lay up; Why, replies the Landlord▪ Your Wife has taken it with her and is gone to pay it. hay day! cries Diomedes, what, ever worse and worse, The Woman I never see with my eyes before, 〈◊〉 is none of my wife. That is no fault of mine, quoth the Landlord, you did not only tell me she was your Wife, but lay with her, and upon that score I must justify myself, she has the Money. This enraged Diomedes worse than before: but the Officer hea●ing of their lying together, would have seized his person suspecting that he was a married man (which Justice takes more notice of than otherwise) and Diomedes fearing that if he dallied there long, that he might be secured till he should evidence the Contrary, which he could not do, and so bring himself into public shame, besides a round some of money at best, to satisfy Justice, which would but be Loss upon Loss; he therefore to prove the worst steals softly out, under colour as if he would go se●k for his Darling. And betakes himself in all haste for Amsterdam, thinking one time or another to revenge this injury.  
Olympia seeing her blessed Jewel come in such a fashion home, without ever a button on his coat, or his sword, which he was fain to pawn by the way to bear his expenses, was not a little altered: but he to palliate the truth of the matter (as his old custom was) told her that missing the Boat between Haarlem and Leyden, he was fain to go a foo●, where coming at the Downs he was assailed by 3 or 4 Russians all masked, who immediately clapped a pistol to his breast and bade him deliver, which he to save his life was fain to do, nor yet were they contented so, but must disarm him, and cut the buttons off his Coat. Olympia was not easily induced to believe this his story, but after a little chiding with him was forced to put all up in good part.  
Diomedes was not willing to leave the matter, so but urges her anew, to give him 6000 gilled. more, which she would in no wi●e consent to, till by his continual Importunateness he had almost harassed her out of her life, that she was fain to give it him, upon promise of being a better husband.  
Having got the money he departs for Rotterdam, & there arriving he paid the sum. and returns back again for Amsterdam, where he was as welcome as Quarter-day to a Tenant that has no money to pay his Landlord: For so soon as he arrived he found Olympia very pensiv and melancholic, that she would not give him a word; which he observing thought some way or other, to remedy the matter, by making of one good bargain or other.  
But amids all these hopes he received Letters from Spain that the Ship which he had sent out upon a hopeful voyage was cast away on the height of Cabo Verdo, which news reduced him to despair, insomuch that he continually ran from one Tavern to another, and misspent his time, that with an incessant consumption of money made his wife in a worse humour than before.  
It happened not long after that he met with an expert Gamester at Backgammon who alured him to play a Game with him to pass away the time. Diomedes who in his days had now and then shaken his arm, was easily moved to it; so to't they went; where from Shillings they proceeded to Ducatoons, and from Ducatoons to Ducats, Diomedes in the mean time holding the board even with his Antagonist, which was done by subtlety to make Diomedes the more easily induced to venture upon greater sums. At last it came up to 25 gilled. (or 50 sh.) a throw, so that Diomedes came off at night with 1300 gild. loss. And being willing to go home, his Party takes him by the shoulder and would not let him stir out of the place till he had given him a Bond under his hand, whereby he acknowled himself to be indebted so much money to his Party, and thereby firmly binding himself to pay it upon demand. Diomedes was at first very loath to set his hand to paper, but seeing no remedy he was forced to it.  
The next morning betimes came the Gentleman and demanded his Money of Diomedes, before his wife was stirring; upon which Diomedes went privately and stole away the Keys, Olympia not once perceiving, for she was fast asleep, not having slept the whole night by reason of her husbands staying late out; for whom she was in continual fear, knowing him to be of a rash and resolute temper when he had drunk a little more than ordinary. Having now got the Keys he took out a bag of moneys very clandestinely, pays his Creditor and lays the Keys where he took them.  
Whem Olympia had occasion for some moneys went up into her Chest and found a great hole in the Cash, falls aboard her husband and called him a thousand Rogues, which he by all the means he could endeavoured to extenuate, but all to no purpose for he had not the art to tame a Shrew. All the ways he could possibly think upon he made use of to pacify, and flattered her with promises of Amendment, and I know not what. Still Olympia rails and curses the day that ever she saw him, wishing she had been in her Coffin when she sat upon the house of Office, or that Death had seized upon her Heart, when he seized upon her Breach, etc. Thus she continued for many days together in this fume, and would not go to bed with him, no, nor eat in his presence. Long dured this feud between them although he for his part did all he could to compose the Difference, which in process of time he accomplished.  
The money being now brought to the utmost he began to solicit for more, which he would raise by exposing some Linen to public sale, which converted into money, he told her he had a conceit in his head to put them well in stock again; Olympia was not so rash of belief as he had hopes she would be, before he made the over tu●e and moved the matter; well knowing it was by no laudable, but some dishonourable practice.  
Day by day he wrought upon her, till he made her weary almost of life, and, was at last forced to give her Consent: which having obtained, he went to the Public Saleman [or Out-crier] and delivers him the Goods.  
As soon as he had got the moneys, he went to a Merchant who dealt in Linens by Wholesale, and told him, that whereas he had bought several Pieces of him, and not paid for the same, he was come to pay off the Account, according to his Duty, Sir, replies the Merchant, I know nothing of the matter, pray what is your name? I shall see in my Journal. My name, said he, is D. de Lebec●ea, you will find it about 16 or 18 months agone, for to the best of my remembrance it must be then about. The Merchant turns over his Books but finds no such name and told him he believed it must be a mistake. Diomedes assures him that it was no mistake, for he could be positive as to the Goods received, and the sum, but not to the time, for he had only noted it negligently in his pocket book without any certain date. Still the merchant declines it, and declared how unwilling he was to receive moneys which he doubted whether it belonged to him or no, and that it might probably be some other person, and that the mistake mightly there. Diomedes assures him on the contrary, saying that certainly he was the man. Many Arguments were used on both sides, and at last it was brought to this conclusion, that they should cast a lot, and so end the Difference that way; which they did, and it fell upon Diomedes to pay the money, upon which he told him 160 gilled. Which he said was the sum, this being done, the Old Merchant invites Diomedes to a glass of Wine. When they were grown a little merry, they struck a bargain for 6090 gilled. in Linen, whereof he was to tender 1000 gilled. in ready money, and the remainder in 3 months, with which the old Gentleman was well satisfied, not in the least distrusting any guile in his new Customer, for that he had already shown himself a well meaning just man. Diomedes having got the Linen, brought it home and furnished his shop in better manner than it ever had been before.  
Olympia seeing all these Goods brought home was more possessed with fear than joy suspecting it was brought about by some unjust mean or other, and would at last prove a bitter bargain. Often times she endeavoured to understand from him whence it came and upon what conditions he had bought it, which nevertheless he would not let her know. However she never desisted to admonish him of leaving off his unjust courses, withal telling him what would be the end of it: but all to little purpose, for he was deaf on that ear: and as Guilford and sinister deal seldom ever make a man really happy, so it rendered him very unfortunate, as will appear in these following Relations.  
It happened not long after that Diomedes met with a person that every way suited his drift and humour who was likewise a Blade of Fortune. This Gentleman desirous to show Diomedes a trick went into North-Holland, where he hired a Lighter, to go for Amsterdam, and arriving there he applies himself to Diomedes desiring to buy some Linen, and pretended he came expressly upon that account from Hoorn, and in case he would use him kindly in what he had occasion for, he would be a constant Customer to him. Diomedes thereupon promises he would deal fairly with him, and afford him as good or better Pennyworths than any Linen-draper in the City, upon which he showed him several sorts of Linen and rich Silks. In sum he made a bargain with him for several pieces, which he prayed him that he would help him to Ship, which Diomedes did, Herman (for that was the Customers name) having given him a Glass of Wine, or two, at last prevails with him to go down with him to Hoorn where he would pay him the Money, and crave his Assistance in disposing and ordering of the Shop. Diomedes not willing to disoblige such a hopeful Customer, went with him, not distrusting his honesty in the least.  
So soon as they were arrived at Hoorn, Diomedes steps with him out of the Lighter supposing he would bring him to his house and with one pay him his Money. After they had gone through several streets Harman brings him into an empty house which he had taken for a year only to that end and purpose. The house was without any furniture than only a stool or two, an old Table and a few planks. Entering the house they were welcomed by a Person who was privy to the matter, whom Diomedes supposed to be his Brother. Diomedes is desired to sit down and a Glass of Wine is brought fo●th, which after they had drunk twice or thrice round to the success of the business, the new customer and his supposed brother dropped out one after another and leaving Diomedes to keep himself company, mad, all the hast they could to get the Lighter which having got, they set sail, & with a stiff gale presently got out of sight.  
Diomedes all this time waits for his Customers, but having sitten above half an hour, and finding they did not come he began to mistrust some Knavery, and on a sudden runs up stairs and into every Room in the house, where he saw no body. After he had ruminated the whole house through, he went in all haste to the Haven where the Lighter came on, which by reason of the many cross streets and by-lanes they led him thro', he had much ado to find: but coming at the very Place he found the Lighter was gone; upon which in all hast he returns back again to the house and inquires of the Neighbours whose it was, and what his name was that had taken it, the fi●st they told him, but for the last they could not inform him, for that it was a stranger. At this Diomedes was startled, and in all haste runs to the Landlord, and asks him, Where the Person lived that had taken his house. The Landlord replied that he knew him not, for he had never seen him before, whence Diomedes gathered that he was deceived.  
He gave order to apprehend such a Person, if he should be seen or appear there any more, and that notice should be sent him, and upon that returns for Amsterdam.  
Assoon as he was arrived at home and told his Wife the horrible Cheat that was put upon him she flew into a hot Passion, and complemented him on this wi●e. Thou Monster of mankind, lying and abominable Varlet, whose drift and sole delight is pure Villainy, Cheating and Lies. Unreasonable Man! Abominable Rascal and Plague of Women! How sad and fatal was the hour wherein I first saw thee, and the day unlucky which joined us so near together. Had the unkind stars which influenced me to this, hurried me a thousand miles into the Earth, or by Lightning consumed me to Ashes, than had I been at rest and free from those horrid and plaguy Vexations which thou dost every day afresh inflict upon me by thy wilful, rash and cursed Actions. Inhuman wretch thou art, how can Heaven suffer thy accursed self to breath and live thus Vengeance free. All I have reserved to support me in approaching age (if not prevented with grief) thou throwest away upon thy lusts, and yet criest thou, Have patience, be Content? These and many other raving expressions she sent out, which Diomedes (although sensible that she had reason enough) could not brook: but opposed her, and told her that it was not a Shame as she took it to be, but if she would either go, or write to Hoorn, she would be satisfied about it. But all he could persuade or do, would not move her so much as to take any notice of his words: insomuch that he was fain to be patiented against his will to hear those Thunderclaps; which continued so long that he resolved to take some enterprise or other in hand to put himself yet once more into stock.  
He sends an old Woman of his acquaintance to a Salesman to buy up a Quakers Suit, with a plain hat, having 〈◊〉 small silk Line about it; etc. provides himself also with a little Collar-band, with Gloves, Shoes, Stockings and all things else suitable. In this Garb he dresses himself, when Olympia coming into the Chamber and sees him in such a habit was ready to cry out, Thiefs!  
At night he went down to the Passage-boat for Rotterdam, where he met with good company, all looking upon him as a Quaker, or an Anabaptist, and according to his demeanour simple and upright, he knowing so well how to manage the matter that he was universally taken for what he counterfeited. He was very observant in his reasoning to use no barbarous nor superfluous words, but on the contrary reproved those that did. In the next place he plays the Satirist against modish Habits, being not only Pride but Idolatry, whereby every one endeavours to outvie another, and that only for honours-sake bringing in many instances of Holy Writ for the same; as particularly that of Herod, who gloried so much in the Pomp and stateliness of his Throne in the Eloquence of his Harangue, that he refused not Divine honour, etc.  
After he had done with the Vanity of Ornaments and the Mode-sick Rout, he began to reprehend the Covetous Generation, laying out the sad and lamentable effects of Avarice, and the many temptations that they were under who were addicted to tha● sin, as Deceit, Hatred, Strife, Envy, Theft, War and Murder, from this he proceeds to Humility and Contentment the two contrary Virtues which he painted in their own Colours; and in sum pursued the matter so fairly, thate very one looked upon him as very strict in his way and Profession, especially a company of old Wives, who flocked about him as Wasps about a honey-pot. Thus rambling from Virtues to Vice, and from Vice to Virtues, he purchased to himself a good esteem of all the Company: and now understanding that they were not far from Rotterdam he proceeded to the praise and dispraise of several Callings and Functions according as they were laudable or discommendable in themselves, & at last began to treat about Merchandise, which he preferred above all other Vocations which the Sons of Men use, provided it be carried on and managed with upright and square dealing: and by some bywords signified as much as that it was his proper calling.  
A Merchant then in the Boat that sat directly over against him, asked him, In what Commodity he chief dealt in, he made answer, In Linen and in Grain. The Gentleman upon that recommended him to a Friend of his at Rotterdam, who had a good quantity of Grain which by reason it was, as times stood then, very doubtful which way the market would turn, whether rise or fall he might probably meet with a good Bargain. This proposal suited well with Diomedes, and being arrived at Rotterdam went with him to the other Merchant's house, who had about 80 Last (or 160 Tun) in his Garners, which he set at 170 gilled the Last, amounting to about 136000 gilled. in all, which Diomedes objected against, saying it was too high, and prayed him to set a lower price with one word, retaining to himself a competent Gain. The Merchant swore he could ●ot let it go for less. Sus! Sus! (quoth Diomedes) swear not, I will believe you the rather by Yea and Nay, than by an Oath: but, added he, since you have declared by Oath that you cannot do it for less, I will rather take it, than that you should violate your Asseverations. In short Diomedes bought the Bargain and went to his Lodging where having stayed 2 or 3 hours he returns back again to the Merchant's house, with I know not what excuse, prays him that he would be so kind as to let his Cashier go along with him to Sardam, to receive the Money pretending to live there. The Merchant gives his consent and making himself ready by that time the Grain was shipped, and the Vessel ready to set ●ail, he received a letter from a Comrade of Diomedes, who was made privy to the matter, and therefore came a day before Diomedes to Rotterdam. The Contents thereof was after this manner.  
SIR,  
UNderstanding you have met with a good Customer for your Grain, being a Person with whose Father I have formerly dealt; I presume to request the favour of you that you would please to take the pains and come to the Sea-horse, that I may show him some I have, which to do you will oblige him, who is,  
SIR, Your Obedient Serut. Albert van Aken.  
There Merchant having received this Letter shows it to Diomedes who seemed as if he were glad at the news and therefore prayed Arond (for that was the Merchant's name) to go with him a little. Arond, replies that he knew not the Person: How, quoth Diomedes, do you not know him, and he knows you so well? Come, I shall find him very well. Upon this Arond goes with him, both following the Messenger that brought the Letter, where instead of going to the Garner, he led them out of the Town to a Tavern, notedly infamous; for that the Man himself was a notorious Rogue, the Wife a Whore, and the Daughter one that had been several times publicly whipped upon the Scaffold. The Master of the house was before hand bribed to be assistant under some golden promises, and immediately called out, A Rogue, A Rogue, and with that bolts the Door fast. Immediately upon this sudden outcry, Diomedes rushes in, who had all this time held himself so sincere and Pious, taking a rope, ties him hand and foot, and put a Gag between his teeth, which done they drew the door to, and left him upon the floor neither able to cry out nor move. Diomedes in the mean while whispers the Messenger in the Ear, that he should acquaint the Shipmaster how that they intended to go through Land to Sardam, and that he should not neglect to fall down with the Tide, having a very fair wind and good weather, The man runs away and dispatches his errand; Diomedes also follows him accompanied with the Maid or Daughter, who had order from her Father to go down with Diomedes (for they had promised that the host should have a share in the Purchase) Diomedes seeing himself accompanied with the Wench had no great liking to it; and thereupon pretends to have forgot something in the Town, desires the Maid go on softly and he would overtake her, going in the mean time through another street and was brought aboard the Vessel which had just set sail, and told the Master that he had altered his resolution and left his Affairs to Monsr. Arond to direct in his absence, and that Arond would come over Land. Thus having a brisk Gale they fell down with the Tide and came in a short time to Sardam, where he took out the Grain into Lighters, and so away for Freezland where he reshipt it again for Amsterdam, and there by the help of a Broker met with a speedy market; and received 11293 gulled. for the whole purchase, the Goods being very much damnified by Leckage, etc. and the Price mightily fallen.  
Olympia seeing Diomedes bring home so much money was in a great perplexity, for she doubted that he had not got it by fair means the more because that when he went from home he had disguised himself, however thinking that he had employed her Money which she had given him at several times in some secret Merchandise, she took courage, receives the Money into her Custody, and after disposes of a great part of it in Linen, Silks etc. wherewith she furnishes her Shop.  
Shortly after this enterprise Olympia fell very sick and died, leaving Diomedes sole heir of all she had in the World. Livia the Mother observing that Diomedes, since the death of his wife took no more notice of her, notwithstanding the great Friendship he seemed to manifest towards her, during the life of her Daughter, which now she found to be no more than a parasitical trick to cully his wife, and to trust the more to his benignity, if she bequeathed all to him upon her death. She resolves therefore upon a project to make her have more respect from him than with plain dealing she was likely to acquire, well knowing his ingratitude was like that of an Ass' foal, when it has sucked so long till it be full, turns about and kicks the Dam.  
Every day she caressed Diomedes till she saw him well inclined to continue friendship and for a mean sum makes an agreement with him for her boarding in his house, which being mutually agreed upon on both sides she brought in a great Iron money chest filled with stones and other ponderous materials, which he supposed to be Money, and knowing her to be old and decrepit, that she was not likely to live long, and that by making much of her he might be once Master of that Treasure.  
So soon as she perceived that Diomedes was blinded with hopes of Inheritance, she made a motion, as if she would leave him and go elsewhere to be boarded, unless Diomedes would renew the Covenant, which should be thus, That he during the time of her life should give her free Lodging, Diet and other necessaries so long as she lived, and after the expiration of her Life to inherit her Estate and Moneys. Diomedes, not willing to let her go now in her old days, thinking that the Term of her Life according to the course of Nature could not be, very long; consents to what she proposed, and accordingly a Will was drawn, the Tenure whereof was, That Diomedes should solely inherit all her goods whether movable, or unmoveable, Gold, Silver, in Coin or Plate, Jewels, Movables and Utensils, and in short all that upon her Deathbed she could properly vindicate or claim as her own. To which was annexed the before mentioned Conditions as that she should during the Term of her Life have all necessaries provided her requisite to the sustenance of human bodies, or upon default of that, or full performance, that then the said Will should be void and of no effect. This Contract being signed Diomedes on his part neglected not to caress her with what he could possibly imagine would please her, yet l 〈…〉 not his old course of Life, to wit, Drinking, Whoring, Gaming and Cheating; which now he could do with more freedom than when the good Olympia was alive.  
By some acquaintance or other, he had understood that there was a Convent of French Dames, who had prostituted themselves for Money, where being once introduced by his said acquaintance, he took the occasion afterwards to go all alone, and having pitched upon 2 which he took most fancy for, he got them into a Room apart, where he treated them with whatsoever they had a mind to.  
Within an hour after comes in one Monsr. Melletier a Germane by birth, and sometime under a Public Character at the Court of Sweden, from a potent Prince of the Empire, till by a negligent management of his Master's affairs he was called home, disgraced and detruded out of service. This Gentleman having two Ladies with him, desired of Diomedes, that he might sit in his Company, to which Diomedes very easily assented. Being thus admitted, they were very merry till night, which when come they concluded to go to bed, 3 and 3 in a Room as they came in together. When Diomedes was got above he presented his service to his Mistresses to undress them, but they absolutely refused to do it, saying they could do the turn themselves very well.  
When they were all unharnassed and in bed together Diomedes presently found himself in a mistake, for instead of having entertained two Ladies, all the day at Table, he found he had treated a couple of beardless Youngmen, upon which he was so surprised that he jumped out of Bed, but one of them held him fast and prayed him not to be dismayed since there was no great harm done save that he had misied of his expectation, which he might suppose to be only a dream. In short they fell into Dialogues with him, and expressed themselves so plain, that he presently understood of what gang they were, and at last concluded together to cousin or rob an eminent Mercer, and to consult a mean by the next morning how to circumvent the Party pitched upon, and upon that resolution they left off discourse, leaving each other to their repose. M●lletier who was in another chamber had a different chance from Diomedes, for both those with whom he bedded were females, who showed him pastime enough till at last falling asleep, two or three lusty fellows came up stairs and immediately clapped a great ball into his mouth, tied him hand and foot very fast and put him in a great Basket, which they made fast with a Padlock, being naked and so hard packed up and bound that he could not move or stir, and his mouth so close, that he could not cry out, or hardly draw his breath, but hearing that he breathed too strong through the nostrils they unlocked the Basket and stitched 'em up, which being done and the Basket made fast again, they took his , Money, Watch, Rapier, etc. and went their way.  
The next morning Lebechea awakens and calls to the two Mock-Ladies telling them a project he had in his head which he thought might be well effected, which was; That they thould first lay out some moneys in Silks at the Mercer's shop, and afterwards bring in a chest in which should be a man, who by an artificial lock could open it on the inside, and yet that it should be firm without, and all under a pretence of some Goods. This liked them very well they therefore resolved to do with him as the Tyrant Phalaris did with Perillus, put him in and make him the proof of his own stratagem. Diomedes was very unwilling and loath to take it upon him but was at last persuaded to ride the Trojan Horse, and accordingly was laid upon Cushions for softness sake, that his long lying there might not prove uneasy.  
Ʋander Dussen and Berné, (for so were the names of the masked parties; went directly to the Mercers, where they looked out several Pieces of Silk, and pretended that they lived at Haarlem. In short they bought to the value of about 730 Gild. in Silks, which they immediately tendered; and packed up the Goods in a chest, just such another as they had put Diomedes in, and against the evening got a Porter to carry it away to their Lodging on a Wheel-barrow, where coming they took out the Goods and sent Diomedes away in the Chest with another Porter, who knew nothing of the former. Ʋander Dussen goes before and prays the Mercer that he would please to have the Goodness for to set up the Chest in his house, till the next morning, they having come too late to the Boat. The Mercer suspecting no ill, gave them houseroom for the said Chest, not willing to deny them so poor a Courtesy, for the money they had already bestowed in his shop, and in hopes of future Custom. The Mercer bids his servant to help the Porter in with the Chest and set it behind the Door, which was done, and Ʋander Dussen takes his leave of the Mercer and went to his companion Berne, who came with him about 10 a clock at night, at what time Diomedes had promised to come out of the Chest and unbolt the doors, as he did precisely at that hour, they coming also to assist him took all the richest Goods out of the Shop and carried them-away to 2. Boats they had hired; which done they drew to the Door softly and packed up the Goods in one of the Boats which was so full that they could hardly sit all three, and because Ʋander Dussen and Berné were not well skilled at rowing, they let Diomedes row the Boat, which was laden, and themselves sat in that which was empty. By that time they had got to the Newbridge the Sluices and Waterbarrs were open, so that they got easily out to the stream, this being just by break of Day, and few or none appearing upon the Y, but growing more clear they espied a Boat at a pretty distance which seemed to make towards them, which Diomedes would persuade them was the Schout, and therefore prayed them to change Oars with him seeing his were not so good as theirs, and his Boat very deep loaden. They reached him theirs but in stead of delivering his, he thrust them into the Goods, and rowed away, leaving them to the favour of the wind and Tide, to drive which way they would; in sum Diomedes got quickly out of sight, and so away for North-Holland where he got a Lighter and out them aboard bringing them up to Amsterdam again, where he soon got a private Customer that took them off his hands: and as for Ʋander Dussen and Berne he was sure they would not detect him being equally liable to punishment with him, and under the same circumstances.  
On the same day that this work was first put in practice was Meletier, that was packed up in a Basket against his will, sent to Utrecht with the Ordinary Market-boat; superscribed, To be delivered to Madam Catharina d● Bois living at Utrecht, etc.  
A few weeks after this it happened that Livia, Mother in Law to Diomedes, began to grow sick, which was to him the occasion of some joy, hoping in short to live in greater Gr●ndour than before, for he never in the le●t suspected but that she had abundance of Gold and Jewels. Every day the old Gentle woman grew worse and worse and her vitals spent to the very last: often would she have had a Doctor to come, but he ever with one excuse or another shifflled it off; allowing here no hearty Di●t but such as when she had her perfect health she could not eat, insomuch that she ended her days in misery, no sooner was she departed but Diomedes strips her and lays her out; sent also to some of his Creditors, who had threatened to be too hasty with him, letting them know that within 3 or 4 days he would pay them their Money in full, and desires them but to have the Patience, till the Corpse was buried. He provided also his house of more servants, and considered with himself where he might have a Coach and Horses, as also a Yacht: in short the calculation he made of his Patrimony was very large, and never to be consumed. Impossible it was for him to wait for his Mother's interment before he must be peeping into the Chest, but could not find the Keys; for those she well secured in her life time, lest at any time her stratagem should prove ineffectual and fail her: however in turning up the Bedstraw they found them between two planks, but so rusty that they were hardly sufficient for the use they were made for.  
Lebechea having now got the Keys he made a shift to get the chest open, which he found stowed with stones and Cannon-bullets (for her deceased Husband was the Gunner of a Castle in Flanders) and about 23 Ducatoons in Money with a Paper, the Tenor whereof was thus,  
Son and Heir.  
THink not with thyself that I have any more Treasure left, than what thou seest here before thy eyes, with which thou mayst satisfy thyself; since thou hast been so prodigal of what came by me, or mine. A fit Inheritance I could not leave thee than these Stones; reward enough for all the Good I could ever enjoy from thy stony heart. Nor is it to be thought unreasonable, That thou, whose Hope only made thee show what another would do in Duty, and reciprocal Love, should be frustrate of thy hopes: but as every Dog gnaws the Bone for the sake of the Flesh that once grew on it, so I give thee Leave and Time enough, to vent thy Malice and gnaw these Stones, as the Relics of what thou hast vainly consumed, which might have given me the same Comforts in my old Age, which sore against thy will I have enjoyed.  
Farewell.  
But how our heir startled at this Last Will & Testament I leave to the Reader to judge; sure I am his passion Lorded it so far, that he ran down in all haste ●o the Corpse, threw it out of the Coffin, began to punch it up and down the Floor, and trampled the insensible carcase under his feet, wishing now more that she were alive again, than when alive that she were dead, that she might but for one hour feel the effects of his Rage. He cursed her with more Anathems, than the Mass-priest with Bell, Book and Candle light, After he had so misused the Body he made his Maid drag it out into the street, where hundreds came clustering about it, being an unusual Spectacle, & few knowing what was the meaning of it, till at last the Magistrates came to have notice of it, who immediately sent a messenger for him to appear at the Stadt-house, where making his appearance, they demanded the reason of his Inhumanity; he on the contrary began to relate what a trick she had served him, and how she had been for so many years together maintained by him upon promise of making him heir to a considerable Estate. etc. The Magistrates not willing to hear any more of his Reasons commanded him forthwith to take her in, and inter the Corpse after a decent manner, besides, to go the usual time in mourning, upon peril of the effects of their Displeasure. They also gave him a hint of some abuses he had put upon the East-and West India Companies, which they threatened to take into examination if he did not rest pacified with their merciful Injunction. Diomedes dared not make many words, but was fain to smother his Anger and departed in obedience to their Commands. So soon as he came at home he took in the Corpse and after two days he buries it decently enough but with no great show, himself following the Bier.  
When the Funeral was past, he cashiered his new-taken-on servants, and razed all the Castles he had built in the Air. But above all it troubled him most, that he should be so forward as to promise his Creditors such speedy Payment, and that with such freedom; he was sensible that it would be badly taken out if they found themselves so mocked, and so consequently all fall upon him at once. He resolves therefore to pack up his Auls and get out of the way, since his last cast was played, and the only hope he had of raising his State and Fortune proved no better than a mere Bubble, and to stay there much longer was the nearest way to Prison.  
Pursuant to this design he transports all his Effects into the hands of one Van Galen, a person whom he knew to be really true and honest, and therefore reposed in him the more confidence. To another he committed his affairs by way of Procuration, and recommended to him the sole care of his business with Instructions to Compound with his Creditors, though after a shameful rate.  
After he was gone the Creditors came in expectation of receiving full payment, but could neither meet with Man nor Money, save only Odiard, to whom he had given Procuration, who gave them but little hopes of getting their Money upon any likely conditions, especially when besides many other apologies on behalf Diomedes, he told them outright that the name of his inheriting a good Estate upon the Decease of his Mother in Law, was but a mere shame of the Old Woman, declaring the whole story at large. When they heard of that, some of them were so impatient that they threatened speedy execution: but Odiard let them know, that they would get nothing by foul means, and with one showed them that he had no Effects, and therefore willed them to agree and compound with him whilst it was proffered them.  
Some of the Creditors were content to make a composition, but others were as unwilling: however at last they became of one mind, and desired the Party impowered to nominate a Place, which he did, appointing them a Tavern, thinking that so when they had got a glass of wine, they would be more flexible and easier to treat withal, than otherwise.  
When they were all come together being 83 persons in all Odiard out of the name of Diomedes bad them 5 per cent. At which most of them flew out in a Passion and swore they would rather spend that money to be revenged on him than to receive it for full Payment; so that Odiard had a hard task to pacify them, and make them have patience to listen to what he would propose more. At last he came to 8, and 10 per cent with which the greater part being pretty warm with wine were content, but the rest not, thinking to press yet more out of him, which they seeing that they could not do, assented with the rest, and so came to an agreement, Van Galen being security for the money, upon which they parted, and Diomedes was sent for home, who was constrained immediately to sell his House, his Summer-Dwelling, Shop and Movables, and all little enough to make even with his Creditors at Ten in the Hundred. However he pay of the sum for which he had compounded and hires a house anew, thinking with the remainder of his Moneys to set up a Shop, which was not above 4000 gild. but just in the nick of time comes those that had been security for his Countryhouse to urge the third and last payment insomuch that he was fain to part with that Money wherewith he thought to advance his Fortune and rear his State. Having now nothing left but only a parcel of stolen silks which he had reserved unsold as was mentioned pag. 192. which he durst not expose to open Sale because the Robbery was talked of all over the Town. he resolves upon a new Practice to put himself in stock again, which was after this manner.  
Having 8 costly Diamond Rings which belonged to his wife Olympia, he procures 8 more, every way like those both in bigness weight and fashion, only these he caused to be made, were of Brass, and false stones, these he put in two several Boxes, the true and false each in a Box apart. He also put himself into an unwonted habit, colouring his Eyebrows and beard artificially and put on a long black Periwig.  
Thus attired like a jew he directs his Course for Utrecht, taking the said Boxes 〈…〉ng with him. When he was arrived he went forthwith to a Jeweller, where he proffered the Rings to sale. The Jeweller having thoroughly viewed them he prays Diomedes to set a Price which he thinking too high bade him set a Lower and so on till, they made a bargain which was for 4600 gilled. When they were come to an agreement the Jeweller paid him the Money which he told himself before, and prays Diomedes ●o tell the heaps after him, which he did, letting in the mean while some pieces fall that the Jeweller out of Courtesy took up, and Diomedes having the Box of false Rings in his handkerchief clandestinly by virtue of Hocus Pocus took up the true and lay the false in the place, which the Jeweller could not so much as once mark.  
Having received the Money, he returns immediately for Amsterdam, taking a Wagon by the way, for fear the Jeweller should open the box before he locked it up; where arriving he immediately put on his usual habit, thinking to sell those Jewels at Amsterdam although he came to miscarry in his design, for intending to go to a Jeweller's house he met with one Muller, a Germane, and a famous Rook at Tables, who in his time had played many a Game with Diomedes. These two meeting together upon the Dam-rak faluted each other, and began to enter into Dialogues about the old concern, that finally they both resolved to have a touch at Back-gammon together and going into a noted Tavern in the Calver-street, to't they fell, where for 5 or 6 Games at a Ducat each, Diomedes won, but Muller seeing Diomedes very eager would not play for less that 25 gild. which the other, by the encouragement he had already, did not once decline, which at last brought our Diomedes so low that he was fain to depose his Jewels, that he in a trice lost, and was fain to leave his Coat for the Shot; which the next morning he redeemed.  
Our Gentleman now quite destitute of money studies what practise he should follow to get more, and attempting many ways that miscarried, he at last meets with one that was effectual, which was thus.  
Walking along the streets he saw a billet newly pasted up upon a Corner-house, which many Gentlemen were a reading, it being for the Public Sale of a Garden about half an hours walking without Amsterdam, and belonged to one Mr. de Bo— an eminent Merchant, the summer before dwelling at Amsterdam, but then removed to Haarlem, partly for that he dreaded a War and consequently all the perils that Trading persons are in jeopardy of in such cases (he being sufficiently able to live on his yearly Revenues) and partly by reason that his Lady was for 3 years or more very subject to diseases, and advised to leave the Town, and receive the benefits of a more salubrious Air. This Diomedes seeing, he applies himself to the Gentleman disguised with a black Periwig, Artificial Must a chios and Eye brows; besides a Cloak with the cape richly embroidered, pretending to be a French Baron, and desired to treat with him about his Garden. After many words used on both sides it was resolved that they should go and view it, which they did. But Diomedes told the Gentleman he was not willing to venture upon the purchase of it, till his Wife arrived who he said was upon the way, and he hoped would be in Town within 2 days, and desired him not to sell it till he had given him first notice of it (directing the Gentleman to the house of one of his Accomplices, where he should inquire of him by the name of Monsr. de Rocheville) the Gentleman was content to do so, and after a few compliments took their leaves of each other for that time, the Gentleman going to the City Dool and Diomedes through the Town to see if he could meet with a Cully.  
The next morning about 8 a Clock he sees a Gentleman with his Lady reading the Billet, and closing himself up with them, could hear by their discourse that the Place and Conditions liked them very well. They asked a boy where such a street was (being the place where the Owner lived, as it was specified in the Bill) Diomedes (anticipating the boys answer) asks them if they had a mind to see the Garden; Yes, very gladly, replies the Gentlewoman, if we could find the owner's house. Madam, said Diomedes, I shall show you my Garden: The Key is at my Brother's house, here hard by. The Gentleman and his Lady follow Diomedes to the owner's house, where coming he enters in before them, and asks the Maid for her Master, who made answer that he was not a stirring, Prithee Sweetheart (quoth he) desire your Master to lend me the Key of his Garden, and tell him I shall return it towards night, and come and discourse him about the Bargain, so soon as my wife has seen it. This he said whispering, so that the Gentleman and his Consort could not hear. The Maid goes up to her Master and tells him that the Gentleman who was there the other day was come with his Lady to see the Garden, and desired to have the Key. Mr. de Bo— bids her give it him, and with one beg his excuse that he could not wait upon them thither, he being at that time not very well disposed, and desired a little rest.  
With that Diomedes goes out, taking the Gentleman and his Lady with him, and brought them to the Garden, which they having thoroughly viewed, and examined all the Con-and In-conveniences about the Premises, fell to bargaining.  
Diomedes considering that it was not safe for him to fallen it as the usual manner was, to be paid in 2 or 3 Terms, but rather to see if he could make it to be paid in ready money, and accordingly makes his Conditions, That if they would pay in ready money he would allow them 5 per cent. If in 3 months, 2 and a half per cent etc. The Gentleman calls his wife aside, and debates the matter with her, who counselled him rather to pay the Money down immediately, since that was a considerable profit. In sum they agreed for 3440 gilled. for the Garden Orchard, House, Ponds and all other Appurtenances, and the next day Writings were drawn, and the Money tendered: with which Diomedes trudges away, promising he would go and fetch them the Key, which according to his word he had carried home before promising to wait upon the Owner the next day in the Afternoon. Long waited the Buyer for his Chapman with the Key, who came not: ever now and then he peeped out to see if he could see him, but all in vain for no Chapman comes. About 2 in the afternoon when they had dined, the Gentlewoman councils her husband to take a walk & see if they could find the house, which by the help of the printed bill they did. When they were come at th● house, they pulled the Bell and demande● if they had not the Key of the Garden▪ The Owner overhearing, steps out to th● Door, and prays them to come in, telling them that he would wait upon them thither himself. So soon as he was dressed he come● down stairs, and away they went together. By the way the Owner asks the Gentlewoman if her husband did not go with them, Yes Sir, quoth she, this is my husband. Nay, said he, but I mean the Gentleman that was with you yesterday, with the Cloak embroidered on the Cape and a black Periwig. Why, replies the Lady, I know not that you have seen me in company with any such Gentleman since I came to Town, unless it be your Brother, of whom we bought the Garden. My Brother! replies the Owner I have neither Brother nor Sister in the whole World, as for the Garden it belongs solely to me. Upon these words the Gentleman and his Wife were so surprised that they had not the power to move one step forward, but standing still they looked one another in the face as pale as Death. suspecting indeed that there might be some Roguery in the case, the rather when they bethought themselves that Diomedes did not appear, since he had received the Money. At last the Gentlewoman who could not any longer contain herself burst forth into these words. Certainly he told us that the Garden ●as his, and that you were his Brother, we therefore really believing (as we still believe) ●e had power to make conveyance of it, have purchased it for the sum of 3440 gilled ready money, which we have deposited already and received the Writing▪ s Madam, replies the Owner, I will assure you he has no claim to it for I never saw him before, neither can I tell you who he is, any more than that he came to me about 2 or 3 days ago▪ and desired me to show him the Garden, he promising me to treat about the Bargain, so soon as his Lady came to town, etc. Hereupon they began to stare one another in the Face, and so astonished that they knew not whether they dreamt or were awake. In sum after a long dispute and in the heat of Fury they fell to loud, but not angry words, and observing the People to begin to cluster they returned to the Gentleman's Lodgings, where they heard one another at large and brought the Evidence with the Notary that signed the Instrument, although it did not signify much since it was conspicuously evident that the Garden belonged to Mr. de Bo— and that none else had any Title to it, as also that he had no such Brother in the World. Their extreme shift was to send all over the Town to inquire for the Party, that had sold the Premises, but none such could be found or heard of, for he had quite altered his, habit, and put on a flaxen wig; and the Gentleman fain to be content with the Cheat he had put upon him, and comfort himself with the wit he had bought at so dear a rate.  
Diomedes having got such a noble purchase he resolves to set up shop again, and try what he could do that way once more; and in order thereto buys a good quantity of Silks, paying some part in ready moneys, and the rest he took upon Trust, amongst which Goods he also stowed those which he had Stole (mentioned pag 190) he hired also a maid to keep the shop, to dispatch errands, and the like.  
It happened that 2 famous Pickpockets came out of North-Holland to practise in Amsterdam, both Women, These two being above the degree of your ordinary Filchers, made up a project between them which was thus. They went to a Chirurgeon of known fame for his great ability and skill, whom they accosted after this manner, Sir, we have been happily informed of your great experience in the Mysteries of Chirurgery, after which we have been in some measure restless, till we have been so fortunate as to speak with you about a Sister of ours, which is at certain times of the Moon troubled with a Lunacy, and by reason it was advised by some of great Judgements to let her blood, we therefore come to give you the trouble of your helpful hand and advice in the matter, her head is sometimes so perplexed with worldly affairs, she being indeed by nature, much addicted to avarice; and when she suffers under those sad passions talks of nothing else than Money and Goods. The Chirurgeon told them he was well assured that he could do it if it were practicable by human skill and told them that if they pleased to bring her, he would give them his advice. The one of them makes answer, that all the cunning must be in bringing her thither, and when brought for them to get out of her sight, for so long as they were present she was ten times worse than otherwise: To which the Surgeon replies he had a very convenient backdoor by which if they thought good they might slip out, having first led her into the Parlour. This advice was very acceptable, and they accordingly went out to market, where the first shop they found most likely for their turn was that of Diomedes, where they bought to the value of 460 gilled. in flowered Silks which done they prayed Diomedes to send his Maid along with them to receive the Money to which he assented, so away they go together, till coming at the Surgeons, they went directly into the Parlour, the Maid following, one of the Women carrying the Silks: but when the Maid would have gone quite thro', the Chirurgeon pushed to the Door and would not let her go any further; the Women in the mean time running out at the Backdoor, and the Surgeon with the help of his Man took the Maid and made her fast to the stool with a Towel, making also her hands and feet fast, upon which she roars out, crying, What d'ye mean, Sir? pray what do you intent to do? The Chirurgeon takes no notice of her words, but goes on with his work, taketh her Arm and binds it fast with a clout, she all the time crying out, I come not here to be let blood, I come for my Money, and Money I will have before I go out, What do you intent to murder me? You rogue! You villain let me go, and give me my money, or else my goods again. Still the Surgeon proceeds on with his work, taking his lance lets her blood in spite of all she could say or do, till at last he perceived her swound away, and then stopped the Vein, binds it carefully up, and takes spirit of Hartshorn and other foetid Quintessences which he held under her nose, sprinkling a little Vinegar upon her face, till she recovered. So soon as she came a little to herself again, she began with fair means to inquire after the Women that had brought her thither, as also what was become of the Silks. The Surgeon hearing her name the Goods so specially, began then to mistrust something of reality might be in the case, and after hearing the thing more amply, and finding that she had her perfect understanding, began to repent his rashness, begging a hundred times pardon of the Maid. and telling her how that he was deceived, etc. Upon which he untied the Bands and set her at liberty. The Maid goes out sadly dismayed and ran all about to inquire after the Women, but to no purpose, so that she was ●ain to return home without either money or Goods. Her master seeing her so pale, which was occasioned partly by the loss of her blood, and partly at the loss of the Goods, he asked her, what she ailed; and what had befallen her? She made answer, that she was cheated by the two Women, and told him all the whole passage that had happened to her since she went out. He understanding the matter at large for a while raged and stormed at the Women who had played him that dirty trick.  
After he had kept Shop about a month or two, and spent the Stock as well as the Profit, so that the shelves began to grow thin, he went about to see if he could meet with a Wholesale Cully of whom he might receive Goods upon Credit; but to his sorrow could not meet with one but what would have money upon Delivery.  
In the mean time it happened that the two Gentlemen who had been security for him at Rotterdam for his Country house, came to urge the last Payment, which was only 20●0 gilled he having paid at one time 1000 gilled. and at another time 6000. These seeing that Diomedes had made agreement with others and that they were paid agreeable to the Composition, they resolved to ensnare him since they could find no other way to get their Money: and in order thereto made one privy to the Concern, whom they sent now and then to Diomedes with Buttons, Silk, Ribbons and other peddling trifles which he gave him upon Credit. After he had been there several times with Diomedes, he told him that a certain Merchant in Rotterdam had desired of him to inquire if he could hear of a good Customer for him, who could help him off with some silks, who if he be an honest man, he desired no money before he shut his books; and with all told Diomede● if he could serve him with his Recommendation be would be glad to do him any Courtesy that lay in his power. Diomedes was well pleased with this Offer, resolved to make use of it, and thanks the man for his Civility who took his leave of him, promising within a day or two to send him a letter about the business they now discoursed upon, as shortly after he did, the tenure whereof was thus.  
SIR,  
ACcording to my promise I have spoke to Monsr. de la Rue, who is willing to dispose of his Goods upon the Terms I told your of; so that it is only needful that you should come yourself and see what is necessary, or for your turn, as I doubt not but you will find all according to your mind. In expectation of your presence I shall remain,  
SIR, Your obedient and most faithful servant, Henry Mormerent.  
So soon as he had read this Letter he resolves forthwith to set forward on his Journey, designing also to go on to Antwerp; to see if he could meet with another Enterprise for his turn there. Arriving at Rotterdam he went directly to the house where Mormerent told him that he lived, where coming he received him with all imaginable Courtesy, that he should not distrust any thing Presently Mormerent takes him along wit● him to a house where de la Ruë must be supposed to live, but coming there answer wa● made that he was not within, upon whic● Mormerent whispers the servant in the Ear● who ran immeditaly to Mr. Cornhert and hi● Brother in Law, who were the Gentlemen that had been security for Diomedes, to le● them know that he was there. Diomedes supposing that he was gone to call his Maste● waits there very diligently till Corn●ert an● his Brother came with the Schout, who apprehended out poor Merchant and carried him to a place where they kept him i● custody.  
Cornhert having his Party secure, demands his Money, and threatens him unless h● would pay him immediately, that he would send him away to Prison, where at last h● should be constrained to pay it, besides th● Expenses, Charges and other inconvenien●ces. To this Diomedes replies, that he had n● money nor Credit at Rotterdam, and pray● them to quit him and he would pay them upon his arrival at home. But the security would give no ear to any such Proposal bu● told him that if he would he might easily help that defect another way by sending th● Keys 〈◊〉 Amsterdam, and give order to some 〈…〉 sty Person to send the money, for upon no ●her Condition he should come out of their ●atches. A long time he argued the case ●ith them, and protested that he meant sin●rely and that it was more than 3 times the ●●ue of the Debt that they injured him etc. 〈…〉 t all he could say or infer was but lost 〈…〉 bour, so that after he had stayed there 48 〈…〉 ours he was fain to send the Keys to his ●aid.  
During the time of his being under arrest 〈◊〉 was noised thro' the Town how that one 〈◊〉 Lebechea of Amsterdam was arrested, ●ho was one of the most notorious Cheats 〈◊〉 the 17 Provinces; with an Addition of many enormous and fraudulent practices he ●ad been guilty of, but chief in Merchandise, having dealt in most things, and especially in Wines, Grain, Woods, Lin●●en, Silks, etc. all which coming to the 〈…〉 r of Mr. Arond, whose loss was so great that he could not be forgetful of it, Diome●●es having cheated him of 13600 gilled. as was mentioned in pag. 183 he therefore be 〈…〉 es himself speedily to the Golden Lion where the other was held in custody, to view 〈◊〉 it were not the same person; where co●ing he discovered in him the very features ●f him that had deceived him, the same ●ody and proportion, but in the habit quite different as also in voice, for before he counterfeited a Pharifaical voice, the better to delude his Merchant. At first Arond was in a doubt what to do, whether that he should tax him with it or no, but when he considered what a report went abroad of him, as that he had played many absurd cheats, and that in Grain too, he took courage and expressed himself after this manner. Are not you the very Gentleman who about 3 years ago bought so much Grain to send for North-Holland? naming some particulars more. Diomedes stairs him full in the face and with a dejected countenance had already confessed it, but considering the consequence of the matter if he should own it; stoutly denies that ever he bought any such bargain at Rotterdam, insomuch that Arond began to fear that he had been too temerous, and wished he had not moved the matter, w●ll knowing, that if he had not sufficient proof thereof, the business might have an  Issue.  
The next morning Diomedes receives the 2000 gilled. wherewith he paid Cornert, thinking thereupon to be at liberty but much mistaken, for he had no sooner paid it but in comes Mormerent bringing him a bill of 160 gilled▪ or there abouts, for Buttons, Ribbons and other such inconsiderable wares he had sold him. When Diomedes saw that, he was almost out of his senses, swearing that he neither would nor could pay it, and began ●o rail against his Creditor, to which Mormerent replies, Sir, I pray you do not take it so ill out that I come to demand my own. I 〈◊〉 sorry ('tis true) to find you in this condition, and cannot devise in all the World how your Party should so come to meet you here: However I must needs tell you that I expect my Money before you depart hence, and therefore to that ●nd I continue the Arrest.  
With that Diomedes flew into a great Pas●on and told him that he scorned to stand disputing with such a Pick-thak or Trepan, and that he might do his worst. To be brief they fell to high words and Mormerent charges the Officer with him, which Diomedes ●eeing was fain to content himself, and send down the Keys again to the Maids, for another sum, both to pay off Morme●ent, and defray his Charges, which upon such accounts are generally considerable.  
Opportunity often times makes a Thief is the language of a true Proverb. The Maids were upon his first sending the Key under a most heavy Temptation, but now much more when seeing his delay they could no more moderate their Affections to so pleasant a Bait, and to be plain they sent him what money he ordered, converted part of ●e rest to their own use, and so long as ●e was absent, treated their Minions, with all that they could desire or think of, no● sparing to take of the best Silks they could meet with to put them into a Garb, suitable to such a manner of house-keeping as they then held: So that what he had unjustly got● vanished in as easy and unjust a manner  
Diomedes so soon as he had Moneys, cleared his Accounts with Mormerent, and speeds him on his Journey towards Antwer● thinking there to do some feat that might countervail the hard measure he had at Rotterdam. Arriving at Antwerp he met with a Youth, in drift and humour one of the very same stamp he was of himself, to whom he imparts his mind, and made an Overture to him, how that if he would join with him in some certain enterprises he had in hand, that he would afford him a competent allowance whereon he should live a very splendid Life, discovering to him the whole scope of the project.  
The Proposal, liked Zenodor very well (for so he was called) who promised him upon the word of an honest Gasconier, that he would act his part so gently, that Diomedes should be well served in his project.  
Hereupon Diomedes went to a Mercer's shop where he bought several pieces of Silk and as much Plush as would make a Coat, which they got a Tailor to make and furnish with trimming suitable. Which done ●●ey left Antwerp and came to Rotterdam. where they bought 6 Money Chests well ●ound with Irons, and having filled them with bags of Sand and Flint, they went for●ard for Amsterdam, where Diomedes hired a very stately House and furnished it with Movables and Utensils, so that none ever had been in the house but they looked upon Zenodor to be a very rich Gentleman, being ●here a stranger and unknown. Which universal Opinion was confirmed by many notable stratagems, as we shall impart to the Reader in their course.  
Zenodor new newly settled in his State, nothing ailed him but want of money to maintain that Grandour. All the Actions he had learned by heart, and was as practical as his Master, hypocrisy and the art of ●eigning he had at his finger's ends, all the Tokens of Generosity he could counterfeit, and make show of a magnanimous spirit: the greater sort he knew how to make flexible by Flattery and parasitical expressions, and as for the Vulgar he could cut their throats with a feather. In short he was every way accomplished for a Son of Fortune, which Diomedes observing, fully resolved to make him fit for his turn and not to spare for Money, nor to lose a Lamb, for a farthings worth of Tarr. He goes to his Money chest to take out some Money he had occasion for, and finding his bags much lower than he expected he began to make a calculation, and found that there was 800 gild. or upwards taken out upon which he called the Maid to whom he had sent the Key, and taxes her with the Theft, which she nevertheless resolutely denied, saying that it was done in presence of the other Maid, who was also called in, that they might confront each other. The first denies that she had it, and the other that she took it; yet both spoke the truth, for she that took it gave it over to the other to keep. In short they denied it so stoutly that Diomedes began half to be persuaded that it was his own error, and that he must be mistaken in his calculation, and was fain to put up the matter so, without much controversy, lest the Maids should detect some Villainies he was factious in, and they made privy to.  
Thus it was low tied with his Cash, and he forced to make use of his Wits to get so much as might serve his occasions and supply Zenodor to maintain his Grandour, lest he for want of reparation (like an old house that goes to decay) might prove a lost purchase, and all the expenses in Money, he had already bestowed on the Tool, might be but thrown away. Yet no stratagem he could think upon or undertake that would prove effectual for a speedy Levy, he therefore carried a parcel of Silks to the Vendu-●aster, or Outcrier, to convert into Money, which having done he furnishes Zenodor with 1800 gild. who takes two Maids ●●to his service, and a Footman; the Maids ●o keep his house, and the Footman to ●●ppear abroad with him.  
Besides these Diomedes furnishes him with a thorough-paced villain (who had many time assisted him in this kind of Rascality) to be ●n the house with him, and baptised him ●y the name of a Steward.  
These two being excellently well versed in the Trade, made the World have a honourable esteem for the Lord of the Stage, by many external appearances, as when they bought a considerable quantity of sheet Lead, about the solidity of Ducatoons, which they cut out as an Apothecary, or Confectioner does his Lozenges, into round pieces, and put them into Baggs: which done Zenodor made great acquaintance with some eminent Merchants; these he frequently invites to Supper, during which time his Steward continually passes by the door, with bags under his Arm, and makes an ●ncessant rattling of Money; sometimes coming down to desire his Master to take some other course, or else that Telling of Money would continue all night, whereupon he would make answer, that if time failed them that they should dispatch it with the Balance. And thus by degrees it passed from hand to hand, that Zenodor was a Gentleman of a vast Estate. Besides that one stratagem he was wont to have Letters sen● him upon sleeveless affairs, although the Tenure thereof importing some great money business, which he would here & there negligently let fall for others to take up, or perhaps having any in presence when he received them, read aloud that they might hear him. Ever now and then he would be bringing of Money-chests upon sledges, which were only filled with bags of Lead, made as we have said before in the form of Ducatoons; these he would take out in presence of the Neighbours and give his Cashier and Page order to bring them into such and such a Chest above stairs, and so speedily got the name of a Rich Gentleman, for, Mundus vult decipi, the World will be deceived.  
When Zenodor was now fully known abroad for 〈◊〉 man of great worth in regard of his vast Estate, Diomedes thought it high time to make use of his Implement, and to receive fruit of a Tree of his own planting, seeing his Condition grew meaner and meaner; he therefore went to divers Merchants to buy up Goods, who refused to credit him; he therefore asked them if they were content that he gave them Zenodor's security, ●one ever refused him, on condition he ●ould make him his security, but rather ●●ged him to receive more Goods upon that account, by which Diomedes got a great ●●itare, to the value of 140000 gilled. in wares, which as fast as he could, he converted into moneys.  
The Maid that kept his shop seeing now so many rich opportunities, could no longer contain herself within the limits of honesty, but ever now and then would take an odd piece of Money, whether by bargaining too hard with a Customer, beyond the price imposed, or clandestinly converting that to her own use, which she thought her Master would never come to know of; this Diomedes did really believe, for that he had often miss odd pieces of Silks, and as an evil Doer is an evil Dreamer, so Diomedes measured her Corn by his Bushel. Now it happened upon a time that 3 Men were carried by to Prison, which the Maid running out hastily to look after forgot the Key of her Trunk upon the Compter, which he seeing, went to meet her at the door, and sent her of an errand, which she, not once thinking of her Keys, went to do: in the mean time Diomedes goes up stairs and unlocks her Trunk where he found Seven Hundred Rixdollars, upon which he called in two Neighbours, and in their presence took them out with some pieces of Silk which he also found there, locks the Trunk and lays the Key in the same posture and place he found it in.  
About 2 or 3 days after the Maid having occasion to go abroad resolved to take some Money with her, to buy one knick-knack or other, and finding the nest but the birds flown, comes running down stairs, crying out, she was robbed, and her Trunk had been broke open. Upon which Diomedes made answer that she was not robbed, but his Shop and Money-box, with one telling her what he had done, and in what manner, to wit, in presence of 2 Neighbours, and threatened her besides that if she would not make a candid confession of all, he would deliver her over into the Hands of Justice. The Maid swore and cursed herself with many imprecations that she was wronged, and that the money was honestly come by: in short they fell out so desperately, and words on both sides grew so loud that People began to throng about the Door, and Diomedes thought it his best course to give over, lest she should bolt out some of his Roguery, which she was well acquainted with. For in the middle of their Controversy she gave him now and then a backblow or hint of Rope-merits. So that for that time they left off, but falling into a more serious discourse at night she entered into a new Covenant with him, that for the future he should not tax her with such enormous Crimes as she protested she was never factious of, and with one told him how that every one knew that the Mercer was rob, and that ●he knew him for the Party that was guilty of the Fact, etc. These and other reasons compelled Diomedes to take all in good part, and put up the matter. Whence we may observe that the wicked practices of some men prove a bridle to hold them in, and arm them with Patience, so that they are fain to smother such abuses as inwardly torment them, and are oftentimes forced to comply with that which they have all their Life time to repent.  
Fernelia (for that was the Maid's name) was none of the meanest Beauties, but very ill bred, and with all inclinable to strife, whose litigious spirit none ever could endure, till she came into his service, which for the aforesaid reasons, sore against his will he was fain to bear. Many times he attempted to violate her chastity, but could never obtain his will, for which he took a special liking to her, and at long last fell a courting her in a seeming way, but because she was of very mean Parentage he had no great stomach to adventure himself with her. However she held herself very coy. He therefore to show her more kindness and the respect he had for her gave her a larger liberty, and hired another Maid to be under her, and by the means of Zenodor furnished himself so with Goods that he left of the Retail-trade, and fell to Wholesale, shutting up the Windows and Doors. Fernelia seeing the great respect he had for her, and that the other Maid as well as the Man began to stand in awe of her, she began privately to act her part to inveigle him so much as was possible at an under: and to that end went oftentimes to a Popish Chapel, under a great show of Devotion and Piety, knowing him to be that way inclinable, being the Religion he was educated in. Every night at going to Bed she would mutter over a bushel of Ave Maria's, interluding always a Pater noster, and that so as he could very well hear her. One of her Pharisaical prayers which was afterwards found in writing was after this manner:  

O Holy Mother Virgin, I thank thee, That out of thy bountiful Goodness, thou wast pleased to work upon me this Conversion, which to me is more dear than Gold or precious Stones; That thou hast granted me the Power of renouncing all Earthy and corruptible ways, and to come to thee with an unfeigned Heart, as becomes me. Hitherto have I erred from thy ways in heresy, and have been wholly bend to what was evil, although now I am reduced to what is just in thy eyes, and wholly inclined to worship and serve thee, all the days of my Pilgrimage in this vain and transuory World. Hitherto was I in love with vanity and things that mount no higher than Earth, and last no longer than till my change shall come, which is but an atom to that vast infinite and incomprehensible Entity of Divine Majesty, and the time of their Enjoyment no more than a Minute to Eternity, and yet have I coveted and thirsted after this perishable Mammon, as a Thief unjustly endeavours to make himself Master of what properly belongs to another, whose end is misery and everlasting Grief and Torment. But now O Holy Virgin my soul is totally bend towards thee, and my zeal wholly inclined to purchase that unperishable Good, like the virtuous, whose reward is everlasting joy Oh! how happy? how happy and joyful am I? that I am not like others, Oh? how ought I to praise thee? and how shall I be able to manifest my gratitude to thee, who hast wrought upon me this happy Conversion, and reduced me out of the way of Error and blindness? Henceforward I will do my utmost endeavour to serve my Master faithfully, and do my duty in that State of Life and Vocation whereto thou hast called me. My Master to whom I am in duty obliged to serve, I will serve faithfully, and do what is upright and just that so my future course of life may be an expiation to purge me of my former Errors, which now with tears I hearty relent, that so I may in this world rest secure in thy holy Protection and dwell with thee eternally: Amen.  
Ave Maria etc. Ave Regina Coeli, etc.   
Diomedes hearing her incessantly at Prayers by night, would sometimes set his Ear to the Keyhole [or perhaps sometime his eye] and hearing her often repeat this and other Prayers, wherein she made great manifestation of honesty and Integrity of Life, he could not but look upon her as a sincere and pious Convertit, since he could never really tax her with any unjust Fact, but as he might sometimes suspect her, which suspicion was now clearly removed by this subtle and Hypocritical conduct, and further more that he had made proof of her Chastity. With these thoughts he arrives at this conclusion that he would absolutely make her his Wife: and in order there to fell upon a fresh Suit and renewed his Courtship, to which she would not seem to hear, saying she was too young (and I know not what excuses) but was ever careful to hold him within reach, still showing him a very friendly countenance, that he might not draw away his affections and fix'em upon another. Her attire she made after the newest mode, and her head she tricked up with Points and Laces, leaving her Breasts not plainly open, but just so as his eye might have the benefit of an acceptable Object, thereby to allure and make him more eager in the pursuit of his scope. Every morning as soon as she risen up, she went and paid her duty to the Looking glass, and set her Locks in order, as the Mercer does his Silks in the shop-windows, washing her Virgin's face with perfumed Waters, then setting of all her accoutrements, which during commonly a third part of the day, Diomedes blindly supposed it to be spent in Devotion. Every day he invented new Delights to caress her with, as inviting her to go abroad in a Cheese volante, or else to divert themselves by water in a Yacht and all to purchase her good will. Long dured this Courtship between them, and many Jealousies there were on both sides. Never could she go out, but he dogged her, and every one that passed by the Door if they did but cast an eye upon her, he concluded it was some Corrival, and every young spark that pulled of his hat, he took for a Competitor, that oftentimes he could not refrain from ask her, who it was, which she for her own advantage would tell him it was t'one or totherother, though she had never seen them in her Life before, only to increase his Jealousy; for she observed, how she had the ascendant of his heart: and to add to the matter she contrived several Letters, as if she had a World of Suitors; one whereof was after this manner, as near as I can remember, for I have lost the copy.  
DEAR MADAM.  
MY last may save me the labour to express the Joy, or Sadness I am liable to upon your Smiles, or Frowns. The Heavens are my wittness that my Integrity, Zeal and Fidelity do deserve the one, although some would endeavour to make me fear the other. But I am better assured of your Constancy, than that my Enemies should deter me from the hopes I repose in your worthy SELF by such weak Stratagems. Madam, I am sorry that your affairs at home are so urgent that they prove a let to the Blisses I might enjoy by those whisper which we must be content to exchange at stolen opportunities: but since those seasons fall out so rarely I humbly beg of your goodness, to let us remedy that defect by frequent writing, in hopes whereof, Iremain  
MADAM Your most humble, and most obedient Servitor A. D. H.  
This Letter with another she cunningly laid in a French Dictionary, which she had some time before borrowed of her Master, the Letter being written in that Language which she spoke expertly well, and occasionally upon her going out a Doors upon a certain Message, she asked Diomedes about some words in French, that she was sure he did not know, but must have recourse to that very place in the Dictionary to resolve her in, and seeing him step into the Parlour, (as she was sure) to fetch the Dictionary, she stepped out.  
Diomedes turns over the leaves, and finds the Letter, for there the Book opened of itself, and at the first glance saw the words DEAR MADAM, was so surprised, that taking out the Letters, he closed to the Book, and quite forgot the words she asked him about: when he perceived that she was gone he read the Letter, which struck him into a deep Melancholy, wherein he continued till she came home, expecting his last doom with the turning of her eye, she when returned knew the occasion of his sadness and finding the stratagem take well, tormented him so much the more, by coy answers, and averse looks. Long lasted this misunderstanding between them, and yet he never met with a positiv denial, for so doing she feared he might quite renounce her and implant his affections on another, so as that all her subtlety could not revoke them. Seldom ever went she to Church but he out of Jealousy would follow her and take his place at a convenient distance, where he might see her. One time it happened that in Lent she went to Vespers, being pretty late in the Evening when the Church went out, and coming out of Doors he espied a young Gentlewoman both of Habit, Body, Gesture and all things else like her, whom he followed and endeavoured to close up with her. It happened that Fernelia came out just after him and seeing him go jig by jowl with another, suspected it was some new Darling or other, which because of her own obstinacy he courted, thought it high time to accept of his proffer, and to dally no longer with him, and according to that resolution, arising from a casual passage gave her assent to what he proposed and within a few days after ratified the matter.  
Our Bridegroom invites all his Creditors to a splendid Feast setting Zenodor in the highest place at Table, thinking now for the last time to treat them at their own Charges, they being upwards of 170 persons (as the Party employed to invite them confessed) none knowing that he was Debtor to them all.  
Diomedes had for this end prepared a great Table which was made on purpose, for the entertainment of so many Guests, placing (as was said) Zenodor at the upper end and his principal Creditor at his Right hand, and next to him one to whom he was indebted a little less, and so gradually all his Creditors according to the greatness of their claims. The table was set with all sorts of delicacies that was acceptable for the . After the meal was over they fell to play and pastim, as is there usual upon such occasions, which continued till about 12 a clock at night: when the Bridegroom took his Bride and conducted her to Bed, which was very gorgeously set out.  
But before he enjoyed the delights of a nuptial bed fell out a dismal chance; for Cecil the other Maid envying the good Fortune of Fernelia studied how she might deprive her of the Caresses she trusted to receive from her hasty Bridegoom: and well knowing that the Bride was ever more fearful of Rats, she went to a Maulsters house that was not very far from thence, and prayed the Servant that when he took a live Rat in the Trap that he should keep them for her; and the night before this jovial day he chanced to take a couple which he delivered to Cecil. The Rats she took and having bruised the feet of the one between two Stones, she put them both under an Earthen Pot in the Bed and covered over with the Bed-cloaths that it could not be discerned, and the Ear of the Pot so fastened with the sheet that by turning up the  the Pot must also turn up. The Bridegroom and his Bride being both undressed he turns up the Coverlet and sheet, upon which one of the Rats ran out and the other lay wallowing upon the Bed. The Bride seeing this, shrieked out, immediately swooned away, and fell upon the Floor, as insensible as the feigned Nio●● that was transformed into a stone. No less amazed was he to see his Jewel in such a Condition, he not knowing in the World what to do, for endeavouring to raise her up and if possible to draw on her Morning Gown, found her as heavy as lead, and cold, her Countenance was as pale as a dead Corpse. Long struggled he to get her up but all to little purpose insomuch that he was fain to cry out.  
Three days after this Fernelia lay sick, and bedded not with her Bridegroom till the fourth night.  
When all those things were passed, and the jovial days ended, Diomedes began to make speculation upon his Darling, who for the first 2 Months gave him all imaginable contentment, insomuch that all what ever she desired or demanded was granted: so that nothing was seen between them but the real Tokens of Love, and with great assuredness he imparted all to her that he had in his Heart, little distrusting that it would prove so great a trouble to him in after times; for this morning had a foul evening, and this Beggar he had set a Horseback was quickly upon the Gallop.  
When the subtle Fernelia was made privy to his Heart, and was sensible of his Imperfections, began to act for Empress; and bridled him so in, that he had not the  word to say for himself, but, like a Bear with a ring in his snout, must go where his Owner leads him, to clear himself it was in vain, for so he might prove himself a Liar, and to Hector it out was unsafe, for he knew the perils he was under if she out of a rash and insubid humour should, publish his Knavery abroad; thus he still continued in torments and subject to the greatest and worst of Plagues, which is a Woman's Tongue. Her Paternosters were now Metamorphosed into Oaths and curses, her Ave Maria's into Nicknames and Rehearsals of his Failings, her Hypocritical Prayers were transformed into a perpetual scolding and despightful language, all which he was forced to take in good part. Emilia 'tis true could use her clapper with great Dexterity, but he had the same advantages against her, which this had against him; Olimpia's Tongue was also well hung but she ever had reason on her side, which he with reason could never either blame or oppose, and by both these came his Fortune: but from this it was far more intolerable being by him advanced from the Dunghill, to the spire of Fortune: her tongue was void of all reason and Moderation, nay the very Quintessence of all the Shrews tongues in Europe. For knowing well that although before she was the Maid, and he Lord and Master, yet by her hypocrisy and show of Probity she was mounted as high as he; where he way Cajus she was Caja, was he Leo? she was Leaena: nay although she would allow him to be the Head, she would be sure to be the Cap: In short their Harmony was such that he could not endure an Equal, nor she a Superior.  
The shop was solely managed after her pleasure, and servants taken in, and cashiered as it best liked her. She hired many young men to keep her shop but either finding, them byassed on her Husband's side or too dull, ever turned them away, till at last she met with two for her turn, both of a stamp: these she frequently admitted where it was illicit for any save her husband. Never went he abroad but they were a junketting together; and seldom stayed he at Home, for Home was his Hell: this gave them occasion frequently to carouse together, with a crew of infamous Whores and Rogues, and all at the Cost of the Good man of the house, whose ill-got wealth, was spent upon a way as dishonourable and light.  
Such were now the animosities between them that they seldom lay together, a thing purposely created by herself, the better to entertain her Paramours, who took their Turns; Nor did she spare the shop to serve them in what they desired or demanded. Money they had always at command, and liberty was at any time granted them to go abroad which besides neglecting their business, was a good occasion to spend money in.  
In ommitting many Instances of her disloyal behaviour and light deportment towards her husband one I cannot pass by, which fell out upon his going out of town, upon which Journey the whole Gang had notice and an Invitation to a merry Banquet; and not only those of her own crew, but also all the Rascality in Amsterdam they were acquainted with, were summoned to the Rendezvous, and accordingly at the time appointed made their Appearance, where they were all splendidly treated with a sumptuous Table, furnished with all kinds of Delicacies, as are customary upon such solemn Occasions. When supper was ended, they fell to Singing, Dancing and Playing upon different Instruments; others fell to Gaming and play; and others recreated themselves with other Divertisements. In sum they spent the fore part of the night in variety of Pastime; till the most part grew a little lightheaded, upon which nothing would serve them, but that each should go to bed with his Darling, others there were so sensual and shameless among them, that they ran up and down the house naked to the shift: and threw their  all on a heap together. This Frolic lasted till about 3 in the Morning, at what time Diomedes comes unexpectedly home, and knocking at the Door was unadvisedly let in by a Youngman and a stranger in the house took it to be some of the Company that were newly gone out. Diomedes seeing a strange face witted not what to say, and the Youth much less: but hearing a great noise and rattling above, he steals softly up stairs into another Room, where he waited to see what all this would turn to at last. Now was he in a thousand doubts what to do, not daring to go in for fear they seeing no other shift to escape might fall upon his bones, or otherwise that his Wife, who when enraged would out run the compass of reason, and so teach him to climb the Ladder, for with one word speaking he was a man of Death. But seeing all the Candles put out he went foftly into the Room where their  lay on a heap, and took away their Breeches, Shoes and Perry wigs which he locked up in a Room apart and went out, walking the streets till he saw light in a Tavern whither he went and calling for a Manchet and a Pint of Sack, he looked over all the Papers that he had found in their Pockets, having also plundered them of their Watches, Gold and what else he could come by. Amongst those Papers he found divers Bills of Exchange and Letters of Importance which gave him light enough to know that several Merchant's Servants were in the Rout: and having informed himself who they were and where their Masters lived, as also others among them who were married men, he dispatched Letters to such Merchants as he understood those young men served, including the Bills and Letters which he found in their Pockets, these he sent away with a Porter, who he thought did not know him. He sent also letters to those honest gentlemen's Wives, who had their Rendezvous at his house, and told them where they should find their husbands.  
The next morning when they all awaked some so besotted with Liquor that they hardly witted where they were, but had quite forgot the mad Frolicks they had acted the night before, others who had sitten up late at play could hardly be awakened by their Companions: in sum it was high light day before any of them stirred; but hearing some people at the Door, who had knocked 3 or 4 times before they within knew. Fernelia hearing that some body knocked at Door and saw it light day, was in a lamentable consternation, not knowing what to do: fearing first that it was her husband who might be returned sooner than was expected; and secondly how to get the Company out without being taken notice of. Still they continued knocking at the Door, and thundered as if they would knock the house down: Fernelia, calls her man Tom, who lay behind her, for he was her chief Minion, & the only person for whose sake the had made this splendid Treat: Tom gins to rub his eyes, and gruntles, loath to rise, still she thumps him and told him there was some body at Door, by degrees, though with much ado she gets Tom to creep out of his nest, they all the while knocking at Door. But now comes the mischief! Tom hears'em knock and would slip on his  to let'em in, but could find no Breeches; long hunted he up and down the Room, but all labour in vain, no Breeches were to be found. Fernelia seeing him so slow to go to the Door bawls out, You Lubber what d'ye intent to do? will you open the Door, or not? Tom replies he could not find his Breeches, and without his Breeches he would not go: while Tom and his Mistress stood jarring together the rest awakened, and seeing it was day began to look for their , but none could make a complete suit, some wanted a stocking, another wanted a shoe, a third wants his Periwig and Coat, in short they were all in a great trouble, not knowing in the World what to do; the People at Door still continuing knocking so that abundance were gathered together before the house, one not knowing another's business. At last Fernelia prevailed with her Paramour Tom to go down breechless, and return one answer or other. Who so soon as he enquired who there was, heard a diversity of voices and that of Women as well as Men, was at a stand whether he should open the Door or no; for not withstanding his excuses, as that his Mistress was not a stirring and the like, they still insisted to come in. They above hearing who were at Door, by their Voices which they knew, strictly forbidden Tom to open the Door, and held a Consultation among themselves what was best to be done in this case. Some were for running out at the Backdoor, but it being high light day, and people all abroad it was not held for good, for that the Men wanted their Breeches, & the Women either their Gowns or Petticoats. At length it was concluded by mature deliberation that Fernelia should go to the Window and demand what they would have. But looking out she espied the Schout coming with half a dozen Women, who were the Wives of those Men that were within; upon which she ran up and gave them warning, and prayed them as they tendered their wellfar, to run out at the Backdoor, with such  as they had; upon which some ran out as they were, others supplied themselves with Diomedes his , in short they ran all out like so many mice at the appearance of a Cat, leaving Fernelia alone with her two Men and Maids. By that time they were all got out came the Officer to the Door, who upon his knocking was let in with an infinite train of People, as well those that were concerned, as others, who in spite of all they could do rushed in. The Schout seeing the Backdoor open, ran out that way, where he was informed by the Neighbourhood what way his Game lay, which he pursued, taking only a Merchant's Book-keeper 2 Vintners and a Shoemakers Wife, who, to make their escape went aboard a small vessel, but the Master not daring to conceal them when he saw, the Schout come to demand'em, surrenders them all into his hand; upon which they were carried half naked thro' the streets to the great amazement of all the Town, and so committed to safe Custody, where after 16 days they had a Hearing where the Schout made a heavy demand, either a corporal Penalty and Banishment, or an Equivalent sum of Money, and such as neither of the Vintners was able to pay without Ruin of their Families: so that their Wives who were the Parties aggrieved wrought all they could that they might be banished; which sentence was passed upon them. The Book-keeper was for this and other Crimes, which he was found guilty of, condemned to be publicly whipped upon the Scaffold, and set in the Rasphouse for 13 years; and as for the Shoemakers Wife she saved them that labour having that Morning her Sentence was read strangled herself in the Dungeon with her Garters.  
The rest who escaped the hands of Justice for that time, either fled, or reconciled themselves at Home, the Servants to their Masters, and the Men to their Wives, who knew well that what the Schout demanded would tend to their own Ruin, whether Money or Banishment, for which reason they rather choosed to brook such enormities, than seek revenge which would cost themselves so dear.  
Diomedes either out of Fear or Shame absented himself so long, till Fernelia had made sale of all they had in the House and Shop, which she converted into Gold, intending to run away with her Paramour (as not long after she did) But Diomedes coming home prevented her Journey for that time. So soon as he entered in he saw all the Goods taken down and the shelves empty, as also all the Furniture that was in the whole house, at first concluded, that he had made a Cudgel for his own pate, and that the Schout had made a seizin of all they had for this Delinquency, for as yet he had no certain information how things went, and she for her part palliated the business so long as she could. All the Arguments he used were but lost labour; for she scolded as hard as ever, and threatened to publish his Roguery to the World, which he knew was the High way to be hanged. He therefore resolves with himself not to make any stir till he had got as much as he could by Zenodor, his Implement of Credit, and afterwards revenge himself of her and leave the Town.  
With this Resolution he went to an English Merchant with whom he made a bargain for some Kerseys and Lead, amounting to 4300 gilled. but treating upon the Conditions of Payment, Diomedes would have him to deliver the Goods upon Credit, which the Merchant would in no wise yield to; Diomedes therefore offers him the security of Zenodor: the Merchant replies that he knew him not, but within a day or 2 he would give him an Answer upon the Exchange. Diomedes for that time goes his way, and the Merchant subtly went to inquire after Zenodor, sending first one to offer him a Purchase for a small sum pretending that he was a little necessitated for Money at that time, which was the only reason of his so doing, and that he should not suppose that it was a defective or endamaged Commodity but worth a 3d more if sold upon Credit. Zenodor makes his excuse and said he was out of Cash. Besides this he sent another Emissary or Explorator, who asked him if he would sell him either Rend briefs, Lands, or Houses, saying that he was to take a Journey for Italy where he was to stay some years, and was willing therefore to see his Money well bestowed before he took his Journey thither, adding thereby, that he would not stick out for a small matter if he saw any Purchase that liked him well. This Zenodor also waved, saying he had none of all these to convey at that time. When the Merchant understood this, he gathered that Zenodor having neither Money to lay out upon an advantageous bargain, professing Merchandise; nor yet any Estate to alienate, that he was no sufficient Person. Diomedes, not daring to appear upon the Exchange, went the day appointed very early to the Merchant's house, and desires to know if he was satisfied with his Man. The Merchant would not make him any direct reply as to the person, but desired him to excuse him, for that he was not minded to part with his Goods but for ready Money, with which Answer Diomedes was fain to march, sadly troubled that his Machine failed him, in a time so constringent and urging.  
When he saw that the angry Stars, had made this Enterprise unlucky, and that his attempt had such a poor Event, as in comparing it with the success of his former undertake he reckoned this. He fell upon another Project which was the last and worst he ever met with, if all circumstances be considered.  
He applieth himself to a Merchant who had a Bargain of Elephants Teeth, Indigo and Rice. Of these three Commodities he bought to the value of 7500 gilled. but, a Child once burned dreads the Fire. Or as the Latin Adage, Ictus piscator sapit, So the Merchant who had but newly had a mistake in giving Credit so lightly, would not part with his Goods without either ready Money or very good security. Diomedes not able to make up such a sum complete, promised him that he would give him the security of Zenodor. But this Merchant as well as the former refused to deliver any parcel of the Wares till he had spoke with Zenodor: but told him because he would not detain him in suspense, that he would go with him after Exchange time and see if he liked him, seeing Zenodor was a Gentleman he had no knowledge of, neither personally, nor by fame. Upon this they took their leaves of each other. Diomedes immediately repairs to his Tool Zenodor and tells him of the business, praying him to humour the matter well, which Zenodor promised to do; and in order thereto sends his Cashier and Footman out with Bags of Counters and Leaden Plates, instructing them how they should demean themselves, and be ready at such an Hour. Diomedes at the time appointed went to dance attendance, and brings his Merchant with him: where coming Zenodor sat at Table, but ordered them to step into the Parlour, promising to wait upon them immediately. The Merchant seeing that Zenodor had a great house and rich furniture (at lest in the Room where he than sat) seemed to be well satisfied with the Party, but the more when he saw so many bags brought in one after another: but by that time Zenodor was come down to know their pleasure one of the men infortunately let one of the Bags fall, which being very ponderous burst up the seem, and thereupon let all the leaden pieces tumble about the Floor, which the Merchant seeing, began to smell a Cheat and distrust his Party. Diomedes and Zenodor were so suddenly surprised, that they could not invent any speedy excuse to palliate the Roguery. The Merchant seeing them so look one upon another and both blush, concluded that it was a stratagem and consequently without any open offence let them know that if Diomedes would have the Goods and pay down ready Money, he would not dispose of them within a certain of Days, or otherwise he desired to be rid of his bargain: so that Diomedes found there was no hopes of taking the Cully that bout. When the Merchant was gone they began to chide the man who let it fall, although durst not much provoke him, well knowing in what posture affairs stood with them.  
Monsr. de Kleyn (for that was the Merchant's name) was well satisfied with the accident, being delivered (as he had reason to believe) from the snare, yet could not but tell it abroad how narrowly he had scaped a scouring; which was presently noised through the Town, & brought so long from hand to hand, that the Creditors of Diomedes came to have notice of it: Of which Diomedes himself being sensible foresaw into what state he was like to fall, especially when all had him in the eye for a Cheat.  
And besides all this the continual storming of Fernelia, who was now grown past shame, and so impudent that she began to be a Town-talk was the occasion of some fear on the other hand, for he was sure that in case Justice should demand him, Fernelia would be the first that should betray him, as indeed hearing of this mischance she endeavoured to do, having sent Letters abroad to several places where she knew he had offended, as also to every one of his Creditors respectively, though with that secrecy that none knew from whence, enclosing in each of them a Pasquil in Rhyme which she caused also to be printed, and cried about streets by the Hawkers, to the great detriment of our decayed Merchant.  
The same night that she had dispersed those in famous Libels against her husband, she held a consult with her Paramour to run away and having changed all she had into Gold and Jewels, the next morning betimes she set forth, leaving her husband, house and the remainder of the Goods.  
Diomedes and Zenodor also having a hint of what was noised abroad, were sensible that an incumbent danger threatened them, they gathered together as much Moneys as they could on a sudden and set forward for Paris.  
Brutus the Mercer whose Shop Diomedes had pillaged, and the injured Parties at Rotterdam coming now by these Libels to hear who it was that had been the Agressor, went privately to the Schout with Intention to apprehend him: but coming to his house found nothing but a Child of 3 years old crying in bed, and a few pieces of Silk, which it seems Fernelia thought not vendible. They therefore dispatched Letters abroad describing Zenodor and Diomedes, that they might be apprehended.  
The Debtors also came and seized upon what was left, and by an Order from Court exposed all to public sale, of which when they had made a Dividend could not make One per cent. The Child was immediately sent away to the Hospital to be educated, among the Orphans.  
When Diomedes and Zenodor were arrived at Paris, and Zenodor no more able to be any way instrumental to his Patron, Diomedes demands the Goods which the other had in possession. And advised him to seek for a new Employment; but Zenodor foreseeing approaching poverty and himself destitute of further means to live with that splendour which he had of late done, would in no wise yield to the delivery of what he had, alleging that he ought to have an equal share in them, since his help was the greatest Instrument in the acquisition of all Diomedes of late enjoyed. In brief the dispute continued so long between them, that they drew upon the Place and pushed several times at each other. Till Diomedes receiving a stab under the right Pap fell down to the Earth. Zenodor seeing him so disabled had notwithstanding his Fury compassion of his Antagonist, and instead of dispatching him holp him up upon his Feet, brought him to a Chirurgeon and used all possible means he could, to bring him to a recovery: begging forgiveness a hundred times, and prayed him notwithstanding this fatal difference to continue friendship, with many solemn promises never to forsake him. Diomedes knowing what occasion he had for his help, did freely pardon him, although, ment mansit alta repôstum. he in wardly continued the old Grudge, and fully resolved to revenge himself upon him.  
When our Patient was restored to his former health, he prayed Zenodor to take a Journey with him to Rotterdam where he would fetch 8000 gild. in Gold that he had hid in the Ground.  
Zenodor not in the lest distrusting any thing showed himself very free and willing to go with him, and the next day they both left Paris: but after 2 days Journey Diomedes feigned himself very sick and prayed Zenodor that he would be so kind as to fetch a Doctor, which he did.  
The Doctor came and feeling his Pulse could not find any great matter of alteration; yet unwilling to declare that his opinion was so, lest he should miss of such a benefit, he order him some gentle Medicines with a cordial Julep, and for that time leaves him to the care of Zenodor, withal telling him he must keep warm and use all means he could to get a little sweat.  
The next day Diomedes, appears still worse than before, and therefore willed Zenodor to take the Journey himself, describing him to a hair the place where he should delve for the Treasure, which Zenodor taking for a great mark of Friendship and Fidelity made himself ready for the Journey. On the fourth day that they had stayed there, Zenodor sets forward betimes in the morning, with Instructions from Diomedes that if he could not find the place that he should give him further directions afterwards by writing, and therefore appointed him a place where he should take up his lodgings when there. So soon as he was set out, Diomedes dispatches several Letters by Post to his Creditors at Amsterdam, to whom Zenodor was engaged for him in great Sums, as also to some others whom Zenodor had helped him to rob, informing them that at such a time and place they should find Zenodor, who had by him a considerable Sum of Money.  
So soon as those of Amsterdam received those Letters, they strove who should be there first, without giving notice to one another, for that they supposed he had so much Money about him: and coming there nearly about one time they apprehended and transported him to Amsterdam, where he was very fairly committed to Prison, there to abide and expect his Trial. Zenodor was hereat mainly surprised, but more vexed at the treacherous deal of Diomedes, for the Letters he had written were shown him.  
After 21 days was a Goal-delivery, and Zenodors Case laid open before the Schepens, where not only a long Indictment was brought against him, of many enormous Cheats, but also house-breaking and Delinquencies of a higher nature, which being so clear and heinous were adjudged worthy of Death: whereof he received Sentence and was executed upon the Scaffold, where the Executioner lay his head before his Feet.  
However we must mind you that before the Sentence was pronounced they urged him to a candid Confession of all he had done, and willed him to detect his Accomplices: which he (in hopes that the Bench would show him some mercy) did: and amongst the rest de la Grange, who during his noble house-keeping acted for Steward. The same de la Grange, as he told them was frequently at the House of one joffr. P— a notable Bawd near the Lutheran Church, upon the Cingle, which was a Rendezvous for a Gang of Rascality; that lived merely upon Cheating, Theft and other Villainy. Upon these directions the Substitute Schout was sent the next morning by 3 of the Clock, where he by an order from the full Bench broke open the Doors and found de la Grange and 5 jews, each in bed with a Whore. The jews who are in such cases according to a special Ordinance, to that end provided are carried to Goal and left to the Rigour of the Law. The Mock Steward was also served the like, and about 2 Months after received his Sentence, which was to be whipped upon the Scaffold, cauterised with a hot Iron in the shoulder and put into the Rasphouse, there to remain 8 years, although not long after he broke out, but for a Murder committed upon a Hamburger, was brought to Goal and shortly after beheaded with the Sword.  
Diomedes who stayed no longer at that place than that night he sent away the Letters for Holland, ran away under a colour of going to take the air, without paying his Host; betaking himself directly for Paris.  
Being arrived here he was at a great strait, what course to take in hand to supply himself with money, seeing himself now for want of that brought to the extreme point. All that ever he could invent or think upon was to little purpose, for he could not see any mean honest, or dishonest, to redress his decaying state. He ruminated all his Pockets to see if there were any of those Golden Relics left, may the very lining of his Breeches. In this desolate Condition he wandered up and down the streets ready to starve for want of relief, that finally he was fain to sell his  and purchase an old patched Suit, in which he could with more confidence ask an Alms.  
It happened upon a time that coming to a House where they sold very rich Point-work and seeing none in the shop, made bold to enter in, thinking that if any chanced in the mean while to come forth to beg relief, but when he saw that none came down, he assumed the freedom to lift a very rich Cravat, of Point di Veneza which he cunningly drew up his sleeve and so marched off with his purchase that he had bought without bargaining, and paid for without Money: which he soon found a Chapman for, selling it for 90. Livers, which was not half the value.  
Having received the Money he went to a Salesman to buy him a new Suit, and by the way met with a great crowd of People, who were looking upon a Fist-duel between two fellows in Peasants habit, which when over, he speeds him away to Market where coming, to a shop he looked him out a Suit amounting to the value of 60 gl. which having drawn on, and found it fitted him to a hair he began to look for Money in his old Breeches; but much mistaken for some of the Horn-thumb Gang had done that Office for him. Our decayed Merchant feeling no bottom in his Pocket was in a main consternation, and turning to the Salesman told him how his Money was gone; at which the Man in a fit of Anger unharnesses his Worship, where in hopes of handsel, gets a handsome breed of Lice. Diomedes on the Contrary in hopes of new Rigging, was fain to draw on his old Robes again and departed, and glad that he made his escape so.  
With a sorrowful and desperate heart he betook himself without the Town, where sitting down humbly upon the Grass, by the way side he fell to his old Trade again.  
After he had fitten here 2 or 3 days, came a poor Woman, who seeing a Personage of her Calibre, stepped towards him, entering into discourse together, she desired him to inform her of the Guise of begging about Paris. Diomedes thus unexpectedly meeting with a Female of his own trade, with a raiment of divers colours, stockings turned over the shoes, hair lose about her head, her face scorched with the sun, never a shift to her back, and in short all foul and nasty, yet well proportioned of Body, he stood staring, thinking he had else where seen her, for both by her Voice and Countenance, aswell as her Language, being something guilty of the Nether dutch Idiom and Prosody, he was certain that she was an Amsterdammer, and after a serious view descried the very features of his dear Fernelia; on whom not withstanding, her unworthiness in times past, he had hearty Compassion, seeing her in such a low condition. Longer could he not conceal himself, but as a fire that burns inwardly seeks a Vent and to burst out, so the eager affections of that close, though unhappy union, would not endure to be smothered. However he kept himself some what strange, altered his voice, and made her such wary answers as she could not perceive who he was, till such times as himself listed to detect it. He inquired further after her Life, Parentage, State and Fortune, which she punctually replied to, yet with that obscurity and mental reservation that had he not known the matter before hand, should have gathered very little from the rehearsal she made of her Course of Life: but in the mids of this Discourse, she observed tears run down his cheeks and his ejes full, called to mind his Physiognomy and upon her challenging him he altered his voice again being no longer able to restrain himself, which confirmed the matter.  
Upon this they embraced each other, and she acknowledged him for her husband: as he also owned her for his wife, resolving for the future to be partakers of one Fortune and be sharers in what Providence should allot them. Diomedes began to inquire of her, how she came into that calamitous condition, which we shall impart to the Reader in a few words, and show how that Virtue promotes a Save to the Dignity of a Lord, when on the contrary Vice reduces those that are advanced to the high est pitch of Fortune to the lowest degree, and vilest condition fatal to Men.  
After I had been, quoth she, raised to such a Condition and to that Estate by your means I verily believed it impossible for me ever to fall to the State wherein I now am; and as those who by Money could command all that their Heart lusted, so I who was not bark-bound for that, was loath to deny myself of any thing that might indulge my senses, and not only contented herewith I sought further to pamper myself with what was not lawful, and by consequence violated my marriagebed (as is not unknwn to you) but seeing how that it was not safe for me to make any delay at Amsterdam, for fear of being taken notice of by Justice, and how that I was manifestly going to decay, I resolved to make Sale of all I could in your absence and run away with my Paramour. But being come into Flanders some words happened to rise between, us which (as I believed) were by him created on purpose, for being upon the way & far from any Village he tied me to a tree, stripped me naked and took the remainder of the Gold I had with him, & leaving me there to shift for myself since which time I could never hear of him. After I had lay here more than 50 hours not knowing whether Hunger or Cold should be the greatest cause to bring me to my end, I happened to hear some people in the Woods by night, and calling out they came and released me, but not without forcing me to their wills. Being thus set at Liberty I wandered many days through the deserts not daring by reason of my nakedness appear at any house, or speak to any body that I saw: my Lodging was among  upon the cold ground, and my Diet what I could find upon Trees, but being now in despair of ever coming to my former health, or recovering my strength again, I lay down with an intent to die and to endeavour no longer to keep my soul and body together. Lying in this condition more likely to feed Wolves than Worms, came a brace of Hounds in pursuit of a Hare, which having lost and finding me they began to howl out, and would not leave me till the Huntsman himself came, who seeing a naked Woman was strangely altered at the matter, and having compassion on me began to inquire how I came there in that deplorable condition, but through faintness I could hardly make him any answer, only I desired him to trouble me no more, but suffer me to take my leave of the World which had ever been a burden to me: but he not willing to see me perish went to some Cottage not far from thence where he fetched me a few old  which he threw about my body, but when he would have raised me, found I could not stand upright upon my legs, but was fain to set me upon his horse and hold me up, bringing me in that manner to his own house, where he set me by the Fire, and gave me warm Diet till I began to recover my strength. Nor did the kindness of that true Christian stop here and appear only in that, but being himself a man of mean condition and slender Fortune, he went to his Lord and other Gentlemen round about in the Country, who sent me both Money and Habit, besides many daily Visits that they made and comforted me. When I was well recovered and a little hearty, I took my leave of them all respectively, going to their houses and thanking them for their great Bounty and Charity, but more especially the Honest Huntsman. One of the Gentlewomen who had been the most liberal of the rest at my departure gave me 2 Pieces of Gold with a Letter to a Person of Quality at Paris, desiring them to admit of me into their household: but such was my unhappiness that going over a Bridge I was met with a small company of Soldiery, which I took for Deserters, these after they had miserably plundered ravished me by turns. The greatest favour they were pleased to show me was restoring me the Letter which I was to bring to Paris, for that they knew it was not serviceable to them: although when I was arrived at Paris that for the honour of the Lady in the Country I durst not deliver it, since I was so meanly apparelled, so that in conclusion I was forced to take this trade of begging upon me, in which condition I have continued ever since, but find, alas! Charity is faint and cool, and envy as vigorous and hot among those of our Fortunes and profession,  
More she would have said, but sorrow pressing too hard upon her heart put a stop to her proceeding in that Narrativ: and Diomedes on the contrary desiring her to relate no more, for that it wounded him to the Heart. The Tears that ran trickling down her Cheeks he wiped with a lap of his shattered weed, and asked her if she would be partaker of what he had to eat, which was a crust of mouldy Bread and a cruse of Spring-Water, that she thankfully accepted, and sat down by him.  
So soon as Table was over, they fell into a Study what practise to follow to get into a fashionable way of living again; not forgetting to rip up their former splendour, which was a greater grief to think upon, than their present calamity and despair. In short they did not approv of this course of Life, for calling to mind their former success and Fortune, they resolved to attempt higher things, and since Paris was a City well peopled, and consequently the best place for their turn, they betook themselves thither, where being arrived watched for their prey like the greedy Vultures, but finding nothing that they could lift in 3 or 4 days time, Diomedes bethinks himself of a new Machine, and calling Fernelia asks her if she had not the Letter which was given her by the Lady in the Country with her; she answered, Yea. Diomedes therefore willed her to dress herself in the best wise she could and apply herself thither not knowing what Providence may allot them, since they were now put to their last shift. Fernelia was very unwilling to do it, since she was in such mean apparel, and might rather be looked upon as a Cheat, especially the Letter being of an old date, and if it were either transcribed or altered that the matter would smell the worse, the more if the Lady who delivered her the Letter should since have been at Paris. As to the first thing (replies Diomedes) you scruple at, there will be no great difficulty in it, the rather for that you have a just excuse consistent with Truth, which will rather be an advantage than a let to your purpose: but if in case the Lady has been in Town since the date of this Letter, without Doubt, she will have discoursed the matter, and, as it were, broke the Ice before you, and given her an account of your former misfortune, which will the more induce them to believe what has since verily befallen you.  
These reasons moved her to hazard the matter and dressing herself in the best wise she could, waits her opportunity to deliver the Letters but was not suffered Admittance till she told one of the Pages that she had a Letter for his Lady, which she desired him to deliver. The Page receives the Letter and forthwith reached it over to a Gentleman-Usher who gave it the Lady. So soon as Madame de Oquendo had read the Letter (for so was her name) she sent for Fernelia and for an hour or two discoursed and examined her about circumstances, fearing whether that it was the real hand-writing of the Lady, her Cousin. In short she ordered her to come after 8 days and she would herself in the mean time consider how to dispose of her, and with that left her and went into the Hall.  
Fernelia finding here such good encouragement watched her opportunity, and after 8 days went to wait upon the Lady, who by that time had received a Letter from the Country, which happily confirmed the other Fernelia delivered. Madame d'Oquendo, whose husband was a Spaniard, and she now and then a little possessed with Jealousy, was hardly willing to take her into the house, for that, as we have already mentioned, Fernelia was a Woman of a singular form. She nevertheless ordered her to stay there so long till she should hear of some other place.  
Fernelia thus admitted into the household, got into good apparel and fed at a plentiful Table, began to look as lofty as ever, often wishing that she might but be rid of her Husband who came now and then to speak with her.  
About 14 days after came another Letter from the Lady in the Country, which further confirmed that there was such a Letter sent by an indigent Person, and in all things agreeable to what the other specified, so that the Parisian Lady being now out of suspense as to the verity of the matter, used Fernelia very civilly and promoted her from the common rank of Servants, to the Quality of a Waiting Gentlewoman, and at last committed to her care all the House and Family.  
Being thus on a sudden advanced, and of such repute in the sight of all the whole house, the Lady seldom ever troubled herself with the disposal of any thing, but left the management of the Market to Fernelia, who ever now and then imbezled something for her Darling, which she privately sent him with a charge never to come anigh the house, for fear of suspicion.  
Diomedes willingly absents himself, having all his heart desired, but very impatient to play so long at small Games urges her often times by writing to make a shorter dispatch, which she nevertheless would in no case assent to, till forced to it by his frequent importunity, and personal visits which at last he presumed to make, which hatched a terrible mischief, and, that Pitcher that had gone so often to the Well, came home broke at last.  
It was about the preparation against Lent, at what time some Noblemen of the Romish Faith, among other superstitious Rites, do usually hang their Private Chapels and Altars with Purple, covering all the Crucifixes and Images with the same, so that Fernelia professing skill in those things, was ordered to buy so much as they should have occasion for in the Chapel.  
Which when done, all was hung and disposed of, save only two Windows; but coming too short, the Lady was not willing to buy any more, but taxed the Man that hung the Altar for being too profuse, and not observing that what they had bought should serve their turn. The man when thus chidden made answer that he had but made use of so many els, and would have meted it in her presence: so that he clearly manifested that the fault lay not in him, upon which the Lady in person went to the Mercer to inquire whether they had any more of the same: The Mercer replied, that they had no more, nor that none in Paris had any such in 10 years: In short the Lady came to understand that Fernelia had bought so many els more than the man had used, so that the fault must needs lie in one of them three; either Fernelia, the Mercer, or the Upholsterer. However the Lady put all up in quietness and made no more talk of it, till Diomedes came according to his usual custom to pay his dear Fernelia a visit, having a new suit with a Vest and Lining of the very same Purple, whence she began to suspect that Fernelia had embezzled the Goods, and therefore imparted the matter to her sister at that time in the house with her. Fernelia hearing them often whisper, and by some other circumstances gathered that they had her in suspicion, resolved before 2 days were at an end to march off, and therefore gave Diomedes notice of it, who the next evening came to give attendance.  
Fernelia packs up as much Plate and Jewels as she could very well come at, although the latter she could not so easily come by, it being Lent, and a time when the Parisians appear with less splendour abroad than at other times. With this she steals clandestinly out at a backdoor where she meets with Diomedes, who eased her of her burden, both marching on a good pace till they thought that they were out of harms way.  
A great Ingratitude! but afterwards as well rewarded by the severity of Justice, as you shall shortly hear.  
The Plate they converted into Money as soon as they could, till fearing that the Goldsmiths might have Tickets to apprehend them: so that what remained Diomedes melted, intending to sell it afterward when they had occasion for Money.  
So long as this Money lasted they made good cheer, not sparing for any thing that might add to their delight but drawing towards the last mite, they bethought themselves of some other course to take in hand, whilst they had some Moneys at command.  
It happened that pretty early in the morning he came to a Watchmaker, not far from the Lovure, who was very busy in hanging out his watches, having lay them in confused order. He prays that Watchmaker to read him a Letter, pretending that he could not make any sense of it, which the Watchmaker did not once refuse, but read and expounded it to him on the best wise he could. Fernelia in the mean while drew back her Arm and took up two Gold Watches ●very clandestinly, Diomedes also seeing one very richly enameled made a shift to lift it without being taken notice of by the Watchmaker. But it seemed that a youth who sat behind at work seeing that, so soon as they were gone told his Master of it. The Watchmaker in all haste follows and seizes them, Diomedes would have stoutly denied the matter, but Fernelia was so altered that he confessed the crime, restored him the Watches and begged forgiveness of him. It is true, the Watchmaker would have done it, but having made a great concurrency of People together, he feared to be called in question for it, said, he could not answer it if he did. While they disputed the case came an Officer of Justice who after a little enquiry what there was to do, took Diomedes and Fernelia, and hurried them both to prison, where they were to remain till the next Goal-Delivery.  
The Remainder of their Money was now speedily brought to a Catastroph, and being unacquainted with the Laws of the Country, they were in great distress, fearing that they should at that time take their leave of the World, but,  
The Day for the Sessions appointed being come they were brought to Trial and since there was no evident token that they had before been convict of any other crime, the Bench was not so rigorous. The Sentence was to be whipped and seared in the shoulder with a hot Iron, and afterward Banished.  
In this condition they were ledout at the Gates of Paris, and set their course to wards Biscay, where finding charity very cold by the way they resolved to hazard another risk. For passing by a fair house in the Country, they applied themselves to the Master, desiring to have a night's Lodging in the Barn or Stable, which was granted them. About midnight, they risen up when they supposed all to be secure and asleep, and lighting a Candle which they had in a dark Lanthom, took out the Casement and so got into the house, where they found a Cabinet in which was six Silver plates, and 3 dozen of Spoons, besides a Saltseller and 2 Porringers, all of the same metal, which they took away and marched out softly, tending towards Bilboa.  
So soon as they were arrived there, they converted all into Money, thinking to embark themselves for England, and there to spend the rest of their Days, but as the Proverb saith, When Knaves fall out, Honest men get their own. Diomedes and Fernelia, fell into a hot contest, about I know not what trifile, so that words between them grew exceeding high, and Fernelia was so vexed that she resolved to send him to the Gallows, and make herself mistress of the Money; pursuant to which intent she went to one whom she entreated to assist her under the promise of a great reward. The Ruffian, who was a Person ever ready to do such a Turn, promised her that he would not fail to do his endeavour.  
That night they consulted to leave Diomedes asleep, and having first taken all the Money, they paid the Hostess, and sent a Letter privately to the Praetor of theCity who immediately went to apprehend him.  
When Diomedes found how cases stood, that Fernelia had betrayed him, and was marched off with the Money, he gave notice of it to the Praetor, who thereupon dispatched some Persons with a Pouvoir to take her and bring her back to Bilbao. The Ships were also visited, and the high ways traced; till at last she was found in the house of a poor Peasant, not far from the City, where she had stayed 2 nights, was brought to Bilbao, and there committed to safe Custody.  
During the time of his Imprisonment came Mordechai the Jew to Bilbao, whom he had cheated of a considerable Sum of Money, as was mentioned pag. 72. who hearing that a Hollander was committed to prison, out of pure compassion went to visit him; but seeing that it was Diomedes instead of giving him comfort, aggravated the matter, and threatened to bring in his Action against him.  
Lebechea seeing the Jew in earnest, acquainted his keeper, when he was gone, that such an one, and a Jew was there in the City, requiring him to acquaint the Gentlemen of the Inquisition with it, which the Keeper not daring to conceal, immediately went and detected him, upon which he was apprehended, examined, convicted of Judaisme, and burned at the stake.  
When Diomedes had been about 5 week's n● Prison he came to a Trial, and the Peasant was sent for where he had stole the Plate, in order to prosEcute him.  
Diomedes and Fernelia were brought before the Seat of Justice, where the Judge first with an austere countenance threatened to put them to the Rack, but afterwards with more blandiloquence willed them to make a hearty Confession, which without many Arguments they did, and so received Sentence, Diomedes to be hanged and Fernelia whipped. At the day appointed Diomedes was brought forth, and made a signal appearance of Repentance, although not doubting of a Pardon till the last hour but much mistaken, for the Executioner without any delay performed his charge and duty. Fernelia although by reason she was of the weaker sex, was more gently dealt with, yet what by the stripes she received, and what thro' an inward smart and horror of Conscience she fell sick and died in the field. So, Courteous Reader, you have seen the Condign Punishment and Requital of an impious Life, and the Reward of Villainy in him who had so unjustly rewarded others, whose wicked Projects had never respect to the best of Friends, nor ever spared his nearest Allies so long as his Will was seconded with his Power, and till FUNIS became his  
FINIS.