Peppa: OR, The REWARD OF CONSTANT LOVE.  
A NOVEL.  
Done out of French.  
With several SONGS set to MUSIC, for TWO VOICES.  
By a Young-Gentlewoman.  
Licenced, 1689.  
JAMES FRASER.  
LONDON, Printed for William Crook at the Green-Dragon without Temple-Bar. 1689.   

TO THE HONOURABLE THE LADY ISABELLA ROBERTS.  
MADAM,  
IT was a considerable Time before I could resolve upon a Dedication; but, knowing that few Books, (and especially Novels,) are wanting in this Point, I then presently fixed my Resolution; trod in the steps of those that went before; and submitted to the Tyrant Custom. I was not long in resolving to whom I ought to dedicate it: Your Honour became instantly the Object of a Thought lofty, and aspiring, which hurried me to this Boldness. Yes, Madam, you will think it is a new way of being grateful for past Favours, to ask new ones: And yet this very Absurdity do I now commit; but I am sensible of your generous Temper, and relying upon that alone, I beg this one Favour more, your Patronage, and Acceptance of this Virgin Essay, the Product of my leisure Hours.  
This piece in all its Designs, aims at what is great and generous, and is founded partly upon Truth; many of the material Circumstances having been really acted at Genoa but few years ago: It insists chief upon two Subjects; the effects of an unparallelled Friendship; and the Force, and Reward of Constant Love. It appeared first of all in French; and though now naturalised into our good-natured Climate, and become English, yet it has lost nothing of its French Vanity, and Presumption, but daringly hopes to crowed into your Honour's Closet, there expecting the happy Time when, Madam, you will be pleased to throw away some spare moments.  
Those Readers who have not yet been blessed with your Honour's Acquaintance, may perhaps say, This is not like a Dedication, and their Reason for it will be, because it is not stuffed with fulsome Flattery, and because I have not described to 'em either your Person, or Virtues; but I must tell them (whosoever they may be) that I am a very ill Encomiast, and a worse Flatterer: However, rather than Men should go away discontented, if in few words a plain undeniable Truth will satisfy 'em, they shall have it; that your Birth, Nature, and Education have conspired together to make you every way truly agreeable, which, though it has procured you the strongest Envy of our Sex, it has attracted no less the highest Admiration of theirs.  
One Favour more I importunely crave, that for some Reasons (which by you, Madam, shall be commanded from me at any time,) I may be permitted to refrain the publishing my Name in Print; though really nothing is so sensible a Grief to me, as that I am forced to stifle my greatest Ambition, which is, to declare to the World, the Name of her, who, among all the Crowd of your Admirers, is the most zealously,  
Madam, Your Honour's Most Humble, Most Faithful, And most devoted Servant, A. C.   

PEPPA: OR, THE REWARD OF CONSTANT LOVE.  
GEnoa is a City of Italy, not less famous for its Antiquity than for the flourishing Condition it is in at present, maintained chief by a Commerce, and good Correspondence with almost all the Nations of the Universe; and is now esteemed one of the richest Towns in Europe.  
As this City is very Ancient, so there is in it many Illustrious Families, and some that are allied to Sovereign Princes, amongst whom, the Prince Mark Antony Doria made no small Figure, being in as great esteem for his vast Riches and Possessions, as for the Nobility of his Ancestors; and having an earnest desire in these latter Times, to make the Glory of his Family shine out in his own Person, he applied his youthful Time and Courage, for some years, in the Service of the Spaniard; but not meeting with those Honourable Rewards which his Courage had merited, he discontentedly retired to Genoa; where, some little time after, he married the Sister of the Marquis Durazzo, a person of an exquisite Beauty. All People looked upon this Marriage as very happy, seeing the assiduous care the Prince Doria took to please his Wife, who in requital loved him with an extreme Passion. About a year after they were married, she was delivered of a Daughter; but her lying in was followed with a Consequence so fatal, that though all means were used, she relapsed into a great weakness of Body, and, after having languished five or six Months, died. The Prince was so sensibly touched with this loss, that he withdrew himself for a long time into a Monastery, without seeing any body, avoiding even those very persons who were only capable of giving him some Comfort. The little Princess, who was named Peppa, was brought up under the Tuition of her Aunt the Marchioness Durazzo, who had a Daughter of the same age. The Prince Doria led a life very retired for four years, not endering to hear of a second Marriage; nevertheless his Relations and Friends did urge him with such pressing Arguments, that having at length determined to give them satisfaction, he courted a Lady of the House of Spinola It was not long before he married her, but she had never the fortune to be with Child; so that Peppa, who in her tender Infancy had already the marks of a perfect Beauty, was looked upon as one of the greatest Fortunes of all Italy.  
The Princess Doria, now after a seven years' Marriage, despairing ever to give her Husband a Successor, found some Comfort in thinking, that she might one day unite the two Houses of Doria and Spinola, by the Marriage of the young Marquis Spinola her N●phew, with Peppa; and to the end that she might have the opportunity of preparing betimes the Mind of Peppa, she earnestly entreated her Husband to recall his Daughter into his own House, assuring him, that she had an extreme affection for her, and that she did now look upon Peppa as her own Child. The Prince Doria loved his Daughter most entirely, was in an ecstasy of joy to understand the desire of his Wife, and did not delay the satisfaction which she desired.  
Peppa was received into her Father's House with all the Testimonies of Love and Affection that she could expect from a Mother-in-law, who would be no longer such towards her, for she desired her Husband to let Peppa call her Mother; and she would give her the name of Daughter. Peppa, who was of a fine Wit, answered with an obliging readiness to all the kindnesses expressed to her by her Mother-in-law. The Princess on her side did whatever she thought would please her Daughter-in-law; and being informed that Peppa was much troubled to part with one of her Cousins which she loved entirely; ●he entreated the Marchioness Durazzo, to permit her Daughter Julia to be bred with Peppa in the Family of the Prince Doria. The Marchioness, who had many Children, and could not maintain them according to their Quality, had designed them Nuns. 'Twas for this reason, that with much difficulty she was brought to yield, that Julia should live with her Cousin. Nevertheless Peppa wished it with so much eagerness, and her Relations, who had a great deal of kindness for her, so earnestly desired this of the Marchioness, that she no longer opposed it. Peppa and Julia suffered not the displeasure of being parted, and the delights of living always together, contributed still further to the strengthening that perfect Union which was between them. The Princess Doria, who had her Interest in prospect, let slip no opportunity of entertaining Peppa with the Grandeur of the House of Spinola, the famous Captains that it hath produced for the Honour of Italy, and a great many advantages considerable that it had above the other Families of Genoa. She added, that she was much deceived if the young Marquis Spinola, who had already a delicate Mien, and a great deal of Wit, did not maintain with Splendour, the Glory of his Ancestors. Peppa listened to the discourse of the Princess, without making the least Reflection; but in the end perceiving that they made the Marquis of Spinola be more than ordinary assiduous, in rendering her his Devoirs, and that her Mother-in-law, cunningly engaged to make now and then Appointments of Diversions with the Marquis, she complained to Julia of this constraint of her Humour, finding herself only pleased when she was in her company; and all the means that the Princess Doria used made Peppa have the greater aversion for the Marquis.  
In the mean while, though Peppa was yet but fourteen years old, all that saw her, spoke of her Beauty with admiration; she was of a fine shape, the Features of her Face were very delicate, curious ●yes, a fine Skin, and she had something in her Face that was so taking, that it was impossible to look on her without having an infinite esteem for her person.  
Julia was not so perfect Beauty, but she had much Spriteliness, and not a little Sweetness appeared in the whole Cymetry of her Face. She would sometimes say to her Cousin, That she was of a different Humour from all other young Maids, who are always troubled that they are not handsome enough, whereas nothing discomposed her more than to hear the World say she had Beauty; for had she been deprived of it, she could have quitted the World without any Regret, and past the rest of her life in a Convent, as she was designed. Peppa endeavoured to comfort her, by letting her know, that she was not made for the Cloister, and that something might happen which would cause a change in the Will of her Parents.  
The fame of Peppa's Beauty was carried over all Italy, and that she was the only Heiress to the House of Doria. All these reasons obliged several Persons of eminent Quality to esteem the Possession of her to be a Fortune that would crown their utmost desire. There was one, even a Sovereign Prince, who desired her for his Son, but the Princess Doria raised secretly so many difficulties, that the business was at last broke off. The Marquis Spinola, who found Peppa very agreeable, and perceived the great advantages that would accrue to him by this Alliance, made it his whole study to please her; and now through his own Inclination he began really to love her, who till then had but seemingly done it, out of compliance to his Relations. He perceived that Peppa was not in the least touched with his Love, which made him resolve to try, whether he could not take the advantage of the Carnaval-time, for to give to his Mistress the most public marks of the Passion he had for her. This Carnaval is a time of Rejoicing, (or rather, mad Frolicks) in most Countries of Europe, (especially among the Romanists), and lasts from Christmas till Shrove-Tuesday at night, at which time their madness ends; for which, during the Lent, they seem to do Penance: This is something agreeable to an old English Proverb; Sweet Meats will have sour Sauce. But to return to our Marquis, he came to all the Balls with a magnificent Appearance. There he danced several times with Peppa; and when she retired, he took care that several Violins should always attend her Coach to the Door, and there stay the greatest part of the night. Nevertheless, as all things seem insipid to a person that has no Taste, Peppa made no returns to his pressing Solicitations, and acknowledged to Julia, in private, that she did not find herself at all disposed to receive Addresses from the Marquis, and that she well foresaw, she should be the most unhappy person in the World, if her Parents did oblige her to marry him.  
The Chevalier of— and another French Gentleman, by chance happened to be at Genoa during this Carnaval, and going to several Balls in Masquerade, as being the Custom of the Country; they, hearing that there was to be at the Palace of the Marquis Justiniano a great Feast, which was to be concluded with a Ball, were resolved to go thither, disguised in the form of Sea-Monsters. It being an unusual sort of Masquerade, every one was strangely surprised to see a spectacle so extraordinary, and which frightened some of the Ladies; the two Gentlemen perceiving it, they untied only a small string, by the help whereof they slipped out of their monstrous Habit, and appeared extremely gallant. The Chevalier of— was one of the handsomest Men in the World, and his shape was not less admirable, which attracted the Eyes of all that were present. They both danced with a very good Grace, and particularly the Chevalier, that the other Gentlemen durst scarce dance after him. All the Assembly remained not a little satisfied, crowning them with all the Applause imaginable. The Chevalier of— having observed that Peppa and Julia were in discourse with two other Ladies, went and placed himself by them. The Ladies gave him infinite praises, assuring him, that they never saw a Man so gently habited, nor that danced so finely. The Chevalier answered very modestly to all their Compliments, but with a great deal of Wit. The Ladies, who knew him not, and were ignorant even of what Nation he was, because he spoke very well their Language, were very curious of his Acquaintance. They had all no small respect for his Person, and the more he uttered any thing that charmed these Ladies, the more their Curiosity increased: At last it came to that, that they desired him to take off his Mask for a moment. The Chevalier, who was satisfied that they did not know him, had the Complaisance to do what they desired, and let them see a Face, which if disagreeing with the rest of his person, was only so by being too handsome. He put on his Mask again not long after, and remained some time conversing with them. He observed Peppa very attentively, and thought her the most beautiful Creature that he had ever seen. He began to take a great delight in being near her, and was just about examining all the Features of her Face, when the Marquis Spinola came to desire her to dance. Peppa, who was in discourse with the Chevalier, and not a little pleased with it, was so troubled at the Marquess' Compliment, that, though she risen to give him her Hand, she scarce knew what she did; and she had not danced long before she was seized with such a Faintness, that forced her to quit the Ball before it was ended. The Chevalier of— went out presently after, and the next morning went aboard his own Vessel to return to France, where he discoursed to all his Friends of the charming Creature that he had seen at Genoa; he himself wondering at the same time, how he could command himself so far as to leave her, and take a Resolution of departing. Notwithstanding, as he was no less skilful in Music and Poetry, than in the Dance, he had not the power to withstand some soft moments, wherein he composed several Sonnets in praise of the fair Peppa; among which here is one.  

WHen Phillis first I saw, that lovely Maid,  
how great was my surprise:  
She in a moment did my Heart invade,  
wi'th' Magic of her Eyes:  
She in a moment did my Heart invade,  
wi'th' Magic of her Eyes;  
wi'th' Magic of her Eyes.   

2.  
Approach I did, but with so great an Awe,  
I trembling speechless stood:  
Unusual heat did all my Veins o'erflow,  
Then chilled was all my Blood.  
Unusual, etc.   

3.  
Confusion did my Resolution bind,  
Scarce could I speak, or move:  
Despair had took possession of my Mind,  
And checked my hopes of Love.  
Despair, etc.   
As soon as Peppa was alone with her Cousin, she unbosomed her thoughts to her, and declared, That she would never pardon the Marquis Spinola the sensible displeasure he had done her, by his interrupting the Conversation which they had with the Stranger, whom they found so obliging. Have you ever seen, continued Peppa, a Man so handsome, that had so fine a Wit, and so agreeable, and that danced with such a Majestic Air? If we had discoursed longer with him, interrupted Julia, we might perhaps have discovered who he was. I must needs own, cried Peppa, blushing, the sight of him has made no small impression in my Thoughts, and not to make any further secret of it between us, I can't but acknowledge, that ever since that time I have felt such emotions, whereof till then I was wholly ignorant. In the mean time I don't know him, neither can I tell the Country he is of, and perhaps we shall never see him more. These last words were ended with a sigh, which discovered, that this Stranger was not indifferent to her, and although her Cousin gave her some hopes that she might meet him at another Ball, yet this hope was too weak to bring her much Comfort. These two Ladies met at almost all the diverting Pastimes that were performed at Genoa, during the time of the Carnaval. Peppa, who found not what she looked for, was always in a Melancholy Humour, and complained still to her Cousin of her bad Fortune. She sometimes obliged her to keep her company the greatest part of the day at the Window, where they could see all that past by, without being seen by any, flattering herself, that she might at last see him, who was now become the sole object of her Thoughts. But notwithstanding all this trouble for a whole month, it was to very little purpose, since that the Chevalier of— was now in France, where all his Estate and Fortune lay.  
The Count Centurion of Genoa, who had been acquainted with him in Italy, happening to be at Paris, after his return from a Voyage in Germany, was overjoyed to find the Chevalier there. He went to see him, and was received with a great deal of kindness. It was not above two days after that the Count was in a troublesome Affair with an English Gentleman. They fought, and the English Gentleman was much wounded; but the greatest danger was, that they were both seized, and as none doubted but that it was a Duel, (which Crime in France finds no Favour) their Trial came on. The Chevalier, who was advertised of it, by a Note from Centurion, took this Affair in hand, but foreseeing that they could not escape being convicted, and that his Friend thereby would run the hazard of losing his Head, he thought it not convenient to endeavour any thing from the Judges, who, he knew, lay under indispensable obligations of proceeding to give Sentence according to Evidence; but having understood, that they who saw the Action were People of a mean Quality, he privately searched them out, and by great Rewards obliged them to steal out of Paris, so that there might be none to witness against his Friend. This took the desired effect, for the Judges finding no proof against him that was valid, were forced to acquit him. Centurion out of acknowledgement for this generous proceeding of his Friend, would have made him a considerable Present; but the Chevalier refused it, assuring him, that he was fully recompensed for that care he took to bring his Affair to a happy end, by the Pleasure he received in being serviceable to a person of his worth. The Count Centurion returned back into his own Country full of grateful Acknowledgements for the generous Action of his Deliverer, having always before his Eyes the obligations that lay on him for so signal a piece of Service.  
In the mean while, the great Discourse at Genoa, was of the Marriage of the Marquis Spinola with Peppa, it being looked upon as a thing agreed on between the two Families. The Princess Doria, who most passionately desired it, pressed several times her Brother, and her Husband, to procure a meeting of their Relations, to make an end of regulating all matters: But Peppa, who was always full of the Idea of her Stranger, and who, not seeing which way to evade this Marriage, which she now was afraid would be too certain, fell into a languishing illness, which equally put a stop to the Design of both Houses; so that they deferred their meeting to seal the Articles to a longer time. The Physicians, though they were ignorant of Peppa's Distemper, prescribed her several things, and through their Advice, she was carried to a Countryhouse, which the Prince Doria had at Sancto P. di Arena, for a change of Air. Julia, who alone could administer any Comfort to her, because she knew her Secrets, did in vain represent, that she filled her Thoughts with the Idea of a Man, whom probably she should never see again, and blamed her infinitely for resisting her Father's Will, who would make sure to her his whole Estate, upon her Marriage with the Marquis Spinola. Peppa rested satisfied with the Reasons alleged by her Cousin; but at the same time affirmed, That 'twas impossible to alter her Mind, and to drive from her Thoughts the Image of her dear Stranger.  
The illness of Peppa caused so much trouble in the Mind of the Marquis Spinola, who now really loved her, that his Relations thought it sit to dissipate his too great care for his Mistress, that he should go and see most of the chief Towns that were in Italy. Of this Peppa was soon informed: And as it would prolong the Marriage, it became a matter of great Consolation, and from that moment she grew better, and began to shake off her Distemper: Julia forgot nothing that might divert her, and perceiving that she did not speak so often to her of her Stranger, there having been almost two years gone without hearing any news of him, she instantly begged, that now she would banish from her Mind, that fatal Idea, and consider, that the happiness of her Person, and of two Illustrious Houses depended solely upon her own Will, since it was in her power to be the happiest person in Italy, and to taste the greatest Delights that any rational Creature can here either expect or hope for. Peppa answered not a word to this Discourse, which Julia took as a good Omen; judging by her silence, that by little and little she would yield to Reason: Her Health, which daily augmented, fortified her Opinion, that the Stranger did not now so much disquiet her.  
The Marquis Spinola was at Rome when he heard that his Mistress was perfectly recovered of her Indisposition. So good News exciting his Passion, through the Impatience it caused in him of seeing this charming Person, he thought of nothing but to dispatch his Voyage to Genoa: And having heard that at Civita Vecchia, there was 〈◊〉 Squadron of French Ships ready to Sa●● which were to put in at Genoa, he presently left Rome, in company of two other Gentlemen of Genoa, who were glad to take the same opportunity, for to return to their own Country. They arrived at Civita Vecchia the same day that the French Ships were to departed. The Chevalier of— that commanded the whole Squadron, received them with a great deal of Civility, taking them aboard his own Ship. As he had not been ignorant of the Name, and Quality of the Marquis Spinola, he treated him with a singular Respect. His Table, though served with all sorts of delicates, was the least of the Entertainment. They often drank the health of Ladies, which obliged the Gentlemen of Genoa to tell the Chevalier, that the Marquis had a Mistress, who was certainly the finest person in Italy. The Chevalier infinitely commended the Beauty of the Ladies in their Country, and confessed, That being at Genoa in the time of the Carnaval, he went in Masquerade to a Ball, whereof he related to them the particulars; but that he never was in his life in so great danger of taking leave of his Liberty, and 〈◊〉 he was forced to summon all his ●●●son, to resist a secret inclination for ●●ery amiable person that he had seen at a Ball, whose Name he nevertheless had not enquired after. He now thought certainly, that he should never be in love, since that he had escaped so great a danger. After this Discourse the Chevalier drank the Health of the Marquess' Mistress, and to do him the greatest Honour that could be done at Sea, he fired all the Guns of his Ship. The Marquis, overjoyed, told him, Tha● his Mistress was not unworthy of this Honour, and promised him, that he should see her as soon as they came to Genoa, where they arrived soon after.  
Peppa was overperswaded by Julia to receive favourably the Marquis, although she designed to defer her Marriage as long as she could. As soon as the Marquis was arrived, he went to wait on the Princess Doria his Aunt, who was not a little glad of his return. She carried him into the Apartment of Peppa, who answered him with expressions more of Compliment than Love, to all the obliging things he said to her. After several Civilities passed, the Marquis let them know the great obligations he had received from the Chevalier of— when he was aboard his Ship, with all the marks of Respects that he could wish, so far as to fire every Gun of his Vessel at the drinking the Health of the fair Peppa. He then gave them a very advantageous description of his Person and his good Qualities; and seeing that this recital displeased not the Ladies, he informed them of the Adventure that happened to the Chevalier in his Masquerade, and how far he forced his Inclination to defend himself from being in Love with a lovely Person, that he had seen at a Ball. Peppa, who at first found that the Description of the Chevalier was very like that of her Stranger, remained much disturbed all the time that the Marquis was speaking of what had passed at the Ball, and of all the other Circumstances which so exactly resembled her Adventure, that the Company might easily have perceived the disorder that she was in, if at the same time, the Marquis had not turned about to speak to his Aunt in private, for to entreat her to find some means to make good his Promise which he had made to show the Chevalier his Mistress The Princess, who had a great deal of kindness for her Nephew, took it upon herself to obtain her Husband's Consent; and to accomplish the better her design, she told the Marquis, that she would have on the morrow, at her House, a Consort of Music with a Collation, to which she would invite the Ladies of the Neighbourhood, and that he might bring with him his Friend. The Marquis retired well satisfied with the Expedient that his Aunt had found out, and did not in the least perceive the perplexity wherewith the Mind of his Mistress was agitated. As soon as he was gone, Peppa gave an account to her Cousin of all that she had learned; and as her Father had an esteem always for the Spaniards, and therefore she being educated all along with Sentiments of Aversifor the French, she showed no little trouble that this Gentleman, whom she had found so agreeable, was a Frenchman. Julia acquiesced in her Opinion, and added several strong Arguments to persuade her from thinking any more of him. Peppa promised to follow her Counsel; but she conjured her once more to lend her Assistance to find some way whereby she might see again that dangerous Gentleman, assuring her, that she had no other design, but that of discovering, whether this was the Stranger that caused all her disquiet. Julia full of tenderness for Peppa, and altogether as curious, promised to contribute her utmost to satisfy her in this point. They were both busying themselves to find out some means to see this Chevalier, without being seen by him, when the Princess Doria entering the Chamber where they were, told them, That the next day she would give them a Consort of Music with a Collation, and that she would invite some Ladies, whom she named to them. She advised them to dress themselves with all the advantage they could, For may be, (said she) the Marquis Spinola will bring some French Gentlemen, that came from Rome with him. Peppa, o'erjoyed that Fortune offered so happy an opportunity, whereby she might satisfy her Curiosity, spent all the night with much impatience. She therefore retired betimes to her Chamber, and went to bed sooner than her usual hour, as if that would hasten forward the night, and occasion a quicker return of the morning. Nevertheless she found the time very long, and was not a little uneasy in her thoughts. One while she pleased herself to think, that she should contemplate, at leisure, that dear Object, which before she had seen but a moment, and which had made so great an impression in her Mind: Then again, she was afraid to see him, and represented to herself, a train of inevitable Misfortunes, that would be the Consequence of her resisting the Will of her Parents. In spite of all these Reflections, the fear of being deceived in her hopes, caused her greatest trouble; for when she began to think that the Chevalier of— might not be the Stranger that she looked for, and that all her assurance for it, was but the Report that she had received of the Adventure of the Chevalier, which seemed to be like that of her Stranger; she therefore would willingly see him without running any hazard. In this incertitude, she took a great deal of care the next day to dress herself with all the advantage she could, and she did not fail in her design; for the Princess Doria and Julia agreed, that they never saw her in a Dress so magnificent as she was then. The Princess being persuaded, that she did it to please the Marquis, appeared extremely satisfied. It is certain, that the richness of her Dress gave so much Lustre to her natural Beauty, that all those who saw her, could not forbear crying out, That they had never seen so fair a Creature.  
The Marquis and the Chevalier, accompanied with several of their Friends, came to the Consort. As soon as they were entered into the Lady's Apartments, Peppa, who easily singled out the Chevalier from the rest, was in a great Confusion. She found, however, such infinite satisfaction in seeing him again, that she forgot those Reflections which she lately made. The Marquis presented his Friend to the Princess Doria, who received him with much Civility. They then offered their Respects to Peppa, who had scarce the Courage to look up. The Marquis transported with Joy, seeing the great splendour of her Beauty, could not hold from saying to the Chevalier, That now he might judge, whether she did not merit the Honour he did her, when he drank her Health at the report of all the Guns of his Ship. The Chevalier, who immediately knew her to be the same person that appeared so beautiful at the Ball two years before, was in so great a surprise, and beheld her so attentively, that he gave no Answer to what the Marquis said to him. This Affection which cost him a great deal of trouble to overcome the first time that he had seen Peppa, was now renewed; and he found by some private motions of his Heart, that it would be impossible for him to resist. Peppa, who sat next to Julia, had always her Eyes fixed on the Chevalier: She found him so much to her liking, that far from repenting of those amorous Sentiments she had for him whilst he was yet unknown to her; she reproached her Cousin for her having so often blamed this Amour; and she endeavoured to make her observe in his person, the new Agreement that she each moment discovered. The Marquis, who was wholly taken up with the Music, listened to it with so much attention, that he did not perceive the Confusion the Chevalier was in, and he flattered himself with the imagination, that his own presence might in some measure be the cause of the Joy which added so great a Lustre to Peppa's Beauty. As the Chevalier spoke nothing to him in praise of the Music; he asked him if he did not like it? The Chevalier answered him freely, That although he was always a great admirer of Music, yet he had not any relish for it now, when he had before his Eyes the most beautiful person of the World. The Marquis perceiving well that Peppa had the greatest share in his Answer, assured his Friend, That the Custom of Italy could permit of a familiar Conversation, he would also be satisfied, that her Wit was no ways inferior to her Beauty. The Collation being served up, the Marquis prayed the Princess Doria to place the Chevalier next to Peppa, to which the Princess easily condescended, to please her Nephew. Although Peppa and the Chevalier had a sensible delight to see themselves so near together, yet they were uneasy in being deprived of the pleasure of beholding one another; but the Chevalier not being willing to lose so happy an opportunity, found means to speak to Peppa, without being overheard by any of the Company, That he saw it was impossible for a person to withstand his Destiny; and as for him, he never would complain of his, for he was sensible, that he was born to adore her all his life. The Modesty of Peppa would not allow her to give him an Answer to these Expressions, nevertheless something in her Actions let him know, that she was not displeased with what he had said. The Chevalier satisfied with the progress he had made in his Amour, entered into Conversation with the other Ladies, and took care to say nothing afterwards but what every one might hear. The Banquet was concluded with much Magnificence; although the Chevalier did not believe it had lasted long enough, yet before he retired, he had the pleasure to meet the kind looks of his Mistress, and by this mute Language of their Eyes, they fully discovered the Sentiments they had for each other.  
The Chevalier spent the night without sleeping; the lovely Peppa appearing always in his Thoughts, and he thought himself the most happy Man in the World, when that he repassed over in his Mind, that she had heard him without being displeased at it, that even her Eyes had let him understand, that she had not an indifferent Affection for him; but presently making Reflections upon the state of his own Preferment, foresaw, that being advanced in the Service of his King, he could not receive into his Breast so great a Passion, and particularly at Genoa, without great hazard of ruining his Fortune. In spite of all these Reflections, his Amour got the Victory of all these Commotions, and he could not tell which way to take a Resolution of parting from his Mistress. An Order that he received upon his Arrival at Genoa to departed immediately for France, put him into the greatest disorder imaginable; but knowing how nice the King was in all that related to his Service, he resolved not to admit of the thoughts of deferring his Voyage one moment, although he probably believed, that he should never get such another occasion, or to agree with her what Methods and Measures to observe for the time to come. In this extremity he resolved to write to her, for to let her understand, the real motions of his Heart: He deferred it not till it was day; for having called his Servants, he asked for a light, and writ this following Letter.  
I Once had the thoughts that I should never be in Love, since I had the power to resist its force, when I saw you two years ago. I was confirmed in this Opinion by infinite Arguments; but I had no sooner seen you a second time, when that all these Arguments, which before had appeared to me invincible, became weak; and now far from endeavouring to preserve my Liberty, I repent of my former Resistance, and I esteem the time past as lost, not being able to comprehend, that there can be a Felicity in this World, equal to that of loving you. A Duty most cruel, but yet not to be dispensed with, obliges me to return suddenly into France. I should have met with a far greater resistance, in resolving this absence, had I not believed, that that Man must be unworthy of you, who can fail in his Duty to his King. This reason alone makes me go without hesitating, but with a resolution to make a speedy return, to find you out in what place soever you are; to adore you continually; and to sacrifice my Life to a Love that is perfect, and constant.  
He found this Letter exactly conformable to his Mind; but he was in a great perplexity, how to give it to the charming Peppa, for he very well knew, that the greatest part of the Nobility of Genoa live extremely retired, and that it would be very difficult to have access into their Houses, and particularly, near their Wives or Daughters. He feared, that if he should commit this Secret to Mercenary Persons, they would act but faintly in his Affair; and especially in his absence. He was thus disquieting himself, when that the Count Centurion entered his Chamber; he began to chide him for his unkindness, that he came not to lodge in his Palace. The Chevalier excused himself upon his short stay, having an Order to make Sail from Genoa with all expedition. The Count perceiving him to be very uneasy, conjured him to let him know, whether he could contribute any thing to his satisfaction; assuring him, that he would expose both his Life and Fortune in his Service. The Chevalier, sighing, confessed, That he had plunged himself in the most cruel Affair that he ever met with in all his Life: This obliged the Count to renew the offer which he had made him before, adding all that he could think of, to persuade him, that he should esteem himself the most happy man in the World, if he could find an occasion to testify to him his Acknowledgement. The Chevalier without any further difficulty, made him a Confident in his Secret. Having in short acquainted him with the beginning of his Adventure, he confessed, that he was in Love; and that notwithstanding he could not prevent his departing, and absenting himself from the only person he could love. The Count represented to him, the almost invincible difficulties that he would meet with in his Enterprise; but however he offered him all the Assistance in the World; and assured him, that he would stick at nothing where his Service was in Question. The Chevalier showed him then the Letter which he had writ, and told him, That he should departed with less trouble, if he would take the charge upon him, to convey it to Peppa. The Count engaged himself with a great deal of Joy, and promised to take such exact Measures, that he might rely upon the safe conveyance of his Letter to his Mistress. They had some other Conversation together before the Chevalier embarked, to whom it was a matter of great Consolation to find a Friend so truly grateful.  
Peppa past the night with as little rest as the Chevalier: She would sometimes start as she began to close her Eyes, and then would imagine, that all which had passed the day before, was but a Dream; but when she recollected herself, how that she had seen distinctly the Chevalier, and that he had also spoke to her in such tender Expressions; she found no little delight in repassing in her Mind, those very words he had used; and banished all Reflections that might diminish her Joy. As soon as it was day she went into Julia's Chamber, whom she awaked, to talk of her Lover. She made her take notice how much Wit was in all his Discourse, and even applauded his Discretion, for his having spoke so little to her in private. Julia, either to do Justice to the Chevalier, or out of Complaisance for her Cousin, owned, that if a weakness of this nature might be pardonable in a young Maid, she was far less criminal than another, since the Chevalier in all his Actions appeared so graceful. After a long Discourse, Peppa, who flattered herself, that Love might still procure some new means for her to see him again, took no little care in adorning herself. She was all the day long mightily discomposed, and, under some pretext or other, visited the Balconies, and all the Windows of the Palace Doria. She was in this diligent search, when she heard the sound of several great Guns, which moved her Curiosity to inquire into the Reasons: And being told, that the Galleys of the Republic saluted the French Ships which were under Sail. This news much surprised her, because she could not have imagined, that the Chevalier, after the declaring himself to her as he had done, was capable of departing, without letting her hear from him. She was sensibly touched with this appearance of Contempt, and called to her Remembrance all that she had heard reported to the disadvantage of the French Nation, who had this general Character in their Neighbouring Countries, that they could easily engage themselves in any Amour, and as easily quit it again, without the least concern in the World. She bemoaned her misfortune to Julia, and in the angry humour she was in, endeavouring to lessen all that was charming in the Chevalier, she promised her never to think more of this Ingrate.  
We must now leave the Chevalier pursuing his Voyage to France in a stormy season of the year, and upon an unruly Sea; but whether that or his Passion was his greatest care, this Song, the product of his solitary Thoughts, will best testify. He sent it with the first Ship, for his Friend Centurion at Genoa, who till a long time after, could not meet with an opportunity of putting it into the Hands of the fair Peppa.  

OH my Zelinda! could you see  
the fury of each foaming Wave,  
you'd think, that the tempestuous Sea  
would ev'ry moment be our Grave:  
But, oh Zelinda! could you view  
the greater Tempest in my Heart,  
you'd know that it was raised for you;  
So sad, so sad 'tis to departed;  
so sad, so sad 'tis to departed.   

2.  
Come to my aid some gentle Wind,  
And thus my Amorous Message bear;  
Tell all the troubles of my Mind,  
And whisper how I love my Fair:  
Tell her my Fancy all the day  
Doth still enjoy her glorious sight;  
But tell her too, that absence may  
Involve me in eternal Night.  
Involve me, etc.   
The Assembly of the Relations of both Families, which should have met long before, upon the treaty of Marriage between the Marquis Spinola and Peppa, but which was then deferred by reason of Peppa's illness, met two days after the Chevalier set Sail. They regulated the Affairs on each side, and resolved to have them married immediately. Peppa, who could not forget the Chevalier, in spite of all his Ingratitude, being informed of this Resolution, went presently into the Chamber of her Cousin, where she gave herself wholly up to her Grief and Tears, without having the power to utter one word. Julia did what she could to comfort her, and advised her to obey willingly her Parents, and not to hazard the Content of her whole life, by a vexatious opposition. She added, That it was part of her good Fortune to be undeceived of the Chevalier, since she had now found by her own Experience, that he never had a true kindness for her. I believe all that you say, interrupted Peppa, but yet you must acknowledge, that I am the most unhappy person that breathes, seeing that I am going to be sacrificed to a Man that I can never love, when he alone, whom I thought worthy of my Love, shuns me. The many sighs and tears, which stifled her Voice, hindered her from proceeding any further in her Complaints.  
In the mean while that Julia, who shared in her Cousin's sorrow, lamented with her, the Count Centurion, who was to convey to Peppa the Letter given by the Chevalier, tried all manner of ways to gain one of the Women that waited on her. After several Intrigues, finding that his endeavours to win her to him proved fruitless, he told her at last, as a secret, that she might deliver it without the least apprehensions, since that this Letter came from the Marquis Spinola, who did only design to surprise his Mistress, and to see if she could guests whence it came. The Servant being overperswaded by this false appearance, took charge of the Letter, and presented it to her Lady. Peppa something amazed at this novelty, demanded from whom she received it. The Servant answered her, That she was forbid to tell, but that she would soon know in reading it. Peppa, who at first consulted only her Honour, refused to receive it, but as soon as she was alone, she repent that she had let it go, imagining, that it might have come from the Chevalier. A hundred times was she going to have asked her Servant for it, and as many times her Modesty and her Fear, that it was the Marquis Spinola who had sent it, hindered her. In fine, after several Irresolutions, her Curiosity, or rather, her Love, got the victory. She sent after the Servant, and threatened to turn her away, unless she would declare from whence the Letter came. The Servant, still reserving that as a Mystery, delivered it without making her any Answer. Peppa, for all her Modesty, had not the power to resist her Curiosity to know what was in it; she read the Letter, and immediately retired in private, to abandon herself without any constraint, to all the transport of Joy that this pleasant perusal had caused in her. She read it a thousand times, and a thousand times she repent of the disadvantageous Opinion that she had had of her Lover. Her Marriage, which was brought now to a conclusion, was a trouble to her not to be imagined. Her Love, notwithstanding, gave her still some hopes to find out a Pretext to defer this Marriage: She resolved, eve● at last, to feign herself sick, and t● make use of all her Address, to preven● this Affair from being concluded. I● the mean time she busied her Thoughts for an Answer to the Chevalier; which near upon was expressed in these words.  
THE Rules of Modesty would fierce permit me to answer a Letter that was so full of Gallantries as yours, but the same Destiny which has engaged you in an esteem for me, does likewise compel me to do that for you alone, which I thought never to have done for any. I would therefore have you believe, That your Cares for me will not be unwelcome, and that I shall receive no small delight when I may see you again.  
Peppa, supposing that the Chevalier had found the safest way to hear from her, was content to take no further care, but only to remit this Answer into the Hands of the Servant who gave her the Letter, not doubting but that she would be faithful in the delivery; her Modesty not permitting her to inquire into the measures that were to be taken. This Maid being prepossessed, that the Count Centurion was of the Plot with ●he Marques Spinola, and that the Answer which her Mistress gave her was ●eally for the Marquis, met him by chance a moment after: She was so pleased with her Negotiation, that it was impossible for her to hid her Joy. You save me the trouble to go any further, said she to him, in giving him the Letter from Peppa. She withdrew without staying for his Answer, for fear that she should be seen to talk with him. The Marquis, who knew the Hand of his Mistress, tasted beforehand all the Pleasure that a passionate Lover can conceive in having a Letter delivered to him from a person whom he entirely loves; but after that he had perceived in reading it, that it was designed for another, and not for him, he was seized with Horror and Amazement, never having had the least thoughts that Peppa was capable of a Love Entreague: His Indignation and Anger gave him not leisure to make any further Reflections; he entered the Chamber of the Princess Doria full of grief, and giving her the Letter, uttered a thousand Reproaches, that she would have had him married a person who was so false to him. The Princess surprised at this fury of he● Nephew, and the Expressions so littl● respectful which he used, read the Letter which he gave her. She asked the● the Marquis, to whom this Letter wa● directed, and by what adventure it fe●● into his Hands. I cannot satisfy you i● that, answered the Marquis, I know very well that Peppa preserves all her Love for another, whilst that I am going to marry her. It was one of her Women that gave me this Letter; you see hereby that she was mistaken, and it must be without doubt that she was not well instructed. The Princess made the Woman be called, whom the Marquis had named, and after having told her, that she should undergo the severest effects of her Anger, if she did not declare the truth; she aksed her the meaning of this Letter. The Woman confessed, That the Count Centurion had given her one to deliver to Peppa, that she had acquitted herself of the charge laid upon her, and had got an Answer, which she put into the Hands of the Marquis Spinola, believing, as the Count Centurion had assured her, That they were both of Council together, and that it was all one to deliver the Letter to either of them, since that the Count ●●d no other design, but what was only ●or the Interest of the Marquis. This answer made them believe, that the Woman had been deceived. The Princess conjured her Nephew to have a ●ittle Patience, and to let her have ●ime to search into the bottom of this intrigue, assuring him, that she would be the first that would break off his Marriage, if she found that Peppa held the least Correspondance with the Count Centurion. The Marquis dissembled, as well as he could, his Despair, promising, that he would patiently expect the event, and so retired. The Princess without losing one moment of time, secured first the Servant, shutting her up in a Chamber, whereof she herself kept the Key. She passed from thence into the Apartment of her Daughter-in-law, and told her as soon as she came in, That she would acquaint her with such News which would surprise her. Peppa was impatient till she knew it. We have discovered, continued the Princess, that the Marquis Spinola is so strictly engaged with a Lady of Rome, that it is not in his power to marry any other, which makes your Father resolve to hearken to the Count Centurion, who earnestly demands you in Marriage: He gave me a charge that I shou●● make you acquainted with his design, a●● to prepare you to receive kindly this n●● Lover, whom he himself will offer to yo● to morrow. Peppa was wholly surprised at this Discourse which she so littl● expected. She conjured her Mother-in-law, with tears in her Eyes, to hinder the effects of so sudden a Resolution, telling her, That she could not take up a Resolution of marrying a Man whom she had never seen, and hardly knew his Name. However, answered the Princess, your Father did not determine this Affair, but upon the consideration that he was assured you have a great kindness for this Count Peppa protested to her over again, That she did not know him, and declared, that she had rather live all her days in a Nunnery, than to consent to such a Marriage. I have never heard, answered the Princess, in a serious tone, that when one writes kind Letters to any person, they do not at the same time know who they are. Peppa touched with these last words, answered her coldly, That she knew not what she meant; and that without doubt some person, envious of her happiness, ●ade use of this Contrivance to ruin ●er in the Opinion of all her Friends. The Princess said, She was sorry that ●he must be forced to convince her; ●nd to let her see that she had invented ●othing of her own Head, told her, That she need only follow her; she brought her to the Chamber wherein ●he had shut the Maid, whom she called by her Name, as soon as she had opened the Door; but was mightily surprised to find no body. This Maid frightened by the threaten of the Princess, had found means to escape out by a private Door that was behind the Hang, and she left Genoa with so much Diligence and Caution, that it was impossible for the Princess to discover, whither she was gone. Peppa, who was really innocent of any Intrigue with the Count, but yet had feared the discovery of her Affair with the Chevalier, from the mouth of this Servant, became now more bold, by the absence of the only person that could confront her, and reproached the Princess for her Injustice, in suspecting her so lightly. The Princess touched with the Reproaches of her Daughter-in-law, hoped still to convince her by the Letter that was in the Hands of the Marquis, to whom she writ, for to pra● him to send it her; but it was in vai● for the Marquis, not being capable 〈◊〉 receiving Comfort for the Infidelity o● his Mistress, nor of pardoning th● Count Centurion the Artifice that h● used to make the Servant take charge o● his Letter, resolved to fight him; and having met him by chance the same day, he made him draw, after having torn in his presence, Peppa's Letter, although the Count declared, that he was not his Rival, and that this Letter was not directed to him. They fought some time with an almost equal advantage; but in fine, Fortune declared for Centurion, and Spinola was worsted. This Affair made great noise at Genoa; there was scarce a person but what talked of it, and strove to search into the Subject of their Quarrel. These two Gentlemen, had nevertheless so much Discretion, that no body could discover, that the Daughter of the Prince Doria had any share in the Action. The Princess informed of the Misfortune of her Nephew, and of the Declaration which Centurion had made to him before he would draw his Sword, began to believe that there was some Mystery hid in this Affair, and that may be some person, who envied the Grandeur of the two Families, had used this perfidious stratagem to breed a Disturbance, when they obliged the Servant to deliver the Marquis this Letter of Peppa's, whose Hand without doubt they had counterfeited. All the circumstances of this Intrigue, and particularly, the flight of this Servant, confirmed her in these thoughts; and as one is apt to believe those things which one wishes, she rested satisfied, that Peppa had been betrayed, and was reconciled to her. The Princess was then willing to undeceive the Marquis; but whether that he was not so easy to be persuaded as his Aunt, or that he was ashamed of the advantage that Centurion had had over him, he went from Genoa without taking leave of any one, and passed into the Emperor's Army, which was then in its March to raise the Siege of Vienna.  
The sudden absence of the Marquis Spinola surprised every body, and much troubled the Princess Doria, who hereby saw all her hopes frustrated, and the Union of the two Families as far off a● ever. Her Husband himself was muc● offended at so extravagant a way o● acting, and began to hearken favourably to the Proposals that one of hi● Friends made to him, which was to give his Daughter to the Marquis of Vill● Mediana Celi, first Minister of Spain, and who served at Milan, at the Head of a Regiment of Foot. He gave him for example, the Marquis of Los Balbazes, who went for one of the most cunning Politicians that had been in Genoa of a long time, who was more assured of the Protection of Spain, by marrying his Children to the Spaniards, than by his long Services. The Prince Doria was moved by these reasons, and promised his Friend to consider seriously of it. The Marquis of Villa Mediana having had notice of the favourable Inclination that the Prince Doria had for him, and finding that Peppa was one of the richest Heiresses of Italy, came to Genoa in all diligence. The Prince Doria received him very civilly; which engaged him to make use of all the Gallantries which were practised in Spain. He walked the greatest part of the night under Peppa's Window, and in the day never failed to be at all the Churches that she usually went to; but Peppa, who still flattered herself with the thoughts of seeing quickly again the Chevalier, had the malice never to regard this diligence of the Spaniard, who nevertheless did not despair, but hoped that in the end his Constancy would prevail. In all his Serenades, Songs were not wanting, that declared the strength of a Passion; like this that follows.  

LOvely Celia, let your Ear  
listen to my humble Prayer;  
let it hear your dying Lover;  
let it hear, and then discover  
how innocent, and free  
I am from flattery.  
How little all! How little all the World I prise,  
to one kind glance from Coelia's Eyes!  
To one kind glance from Coelia's Eyes.   

2.  
Welcome Shores to those that are  
Shipwrecked, and of Life despair,  
Or t'Offenders Pardon given.  
Or to th' Holy Man his Heaven,  
Not greater Pleasures be,  
Than Celia kind to me.  
So little all the World I prise,  
To one kind glance from Coelia's Eyes.   
In the mean while that he forgot nothing that would produce success, the Marchioness Durazzo took her Daughter home, for to put her afterwards into the Nunnery, whereto she was designed. Peppa, who had never hid any thing from her Cousin, and who found a great deal of Comfort in disclosing her Thoughts to her without any constraint, was so afflicted at this parting, that she begged her Parents to let her be entered some time into the Nunnery where Julia went to take the Veil; but her Father would never consent to it, which obliged her to lead a life very retired, scarce going out of her Chamber, and without any other Pleasure but what the hopes gave her of the return of her Lover. The Count Centurion had not failed to write to France, and to inform him of the Destiny of his Letter, and of all that had passed at Genoa, since he was gone; and even gave him hopes, that if he would send another Letter, he would leave nothing untried that might procure him an Answer. The Chevalier sent him a second Letter, full of passionate expressions, which set his Thoughts on work, how to deliver it. The Zeal that he had ●or the Service of his Friend, engaged ●im to write with the most certain promises, that he would procure him greater success in the delivery of this second Letter, than there was in that of the first. However, as he knew no body that had access near Peppa, and she leading a life very retired, since her Cousin was not with her, it was impossible for Centurion to convey his Friend's Letter to her. He informed himself of all those who had acquaintance in the Palace Doria, if Peppa had not some particular Friends, whom she loved to converse with; he understood that she loved Julia very well, and that she would admit of no Comfort for her Absence. The Count despairing of doing any thing for his Friend, reproached himself every moment with his want of Industry, was afraid, that the Chevalier, who had trusted him with an Affair so delicate, might either have some belief that he kept Intelligence with his Rival; or, that he acted but weakly for his Interest, since that he acquitted himself no better in the charge he had undertaken, after he having engaged himself in the attempt, and promised even a fortunate success. The remembrance of the great Obligation that he hath received from the Chevalier, and the generous means that he used in his Affair; this put him quite into despair. But when that he considered, that the Chevalier might with the soon opportunity arrive at Genoa, and come secretly to his House in hopes to hear some good news, and yet he had nothing to tell him: Thi● last thought put him into so great a● confusion, that he could with Pleasure have quitted the best part of his Estate, to find an occasion of being serviceable to his Friend, and to give him a testimony of his Acknowledgement. In this extremity, he took so extraordinary a Resolution, that no example of Friendship can parallel. He had a particular acquaintance with the Marquis Durazzo, who was one of the chief Senators of Genoa. He one day made him a Visit, and after having declared to him in obliging expressions, the esteem that he had for his person, he told him, That he should be very glad to enter into the Alliance of a Man of his worth, and to become his Son-in-law. The Marquis, who knew very well the great Estate of Centurion, answered him, smiling, That his Daughters were not Fortunes for him, nor had that vanity to think of such a Person as he was, who could make Pretensions to any of the richest Fortunes of the City. Centurion replied, That he was not of the humour of the other Genoeses, who in settling themselves, minded less the satisfaction of their Minds, than procuring vast Estates; but that for him, he should think himself extremely happy in marrying one his Daughters; assuring him, that no manner of Articles between them should break off the Match. The Marquis charmed with this noble Action of Centurion, told him, That two of his Daughter were already Nuns, that he had two others remaining at home, one whereof was brought up with the Daughter of the Prince Doria, and just upon taking the Veil; That if he persisted in the same Sentiments he already had declared, he might consult with his Friends about it, and returning to him again, should then be able to give him 〈…〉 positive Answer. The Count retired very well satisfied; and as he was long before capable of governing himself and his Estate, it was not difficult for him to obtain the consent of his Relations. The Marquis on his side, consulted his Friends: His Wife, who perceived that Julia had no great Inclination for the Cloister, was overjoyed at the Proposition of Count Centurion: She was very scrupulous of putting her Daughter into a Nunnery against her Will, which made her persuade her Husband to let her want no advantage, rather than lose a Match so important. The Count Centurion, who in marrying Julia, was sure of easily seeing Peppa, and of advancing towards this fair person, the Pretensions of his Friend, returned to the House of the Marquis Durazzo, and was received very favourably both by the Husband and Wife. The Affair being concluded the same day, the Marquis presented Centurion to his Daughter, and exhorted her in his presence, to acknowledge all her life time, how much she was obliged to the Count, who preferred her with a small Fortune, before divers Matches that would have been to him very advantageous. Julia, to whom such a happiness came unexpected, especially in a Country where the Estate regulates the Marriages, received the Count with all the Marks of Esteem, and acknowledgement that he could wish, and they were married a little while after with an equal satisfaction on both sides. Peppa was at all the Ceremonies, and was so joyful for her Cousin's good Fortune, that she gave infinite Praises to the Count, for the Generosity that he showed. The Princess Doria who then thought she saw further into this Business than the others, rested satisfied that the Count had been of a long time in Love with Julia, and that the Letter which had caused so much Trouble to her Nephew, was the hand of this Kinswoman, who writ much like Peppa, because they had learned of the same Master.  
The Count who saw Peppa every day, finding himself capable of serving his Friend, prepared a great Feast in his Palace, and did resolve to take hold of this Opportunity for to speak to this lovely Person in behalf of the Chevalier, delivering into her hands the Letter whereof he had took Charge. And as he was infinitely contented with his Wife, and not enduring to hid any thing from her, he confessed to her one day, after having assured her of his constant Love, that he esteemed himself the happiest Man alive, in having married her; but that nevertheless he was beholden to one of his Friends for this great happiness, who had rendered him the highest Obligation that ever Man received. He then told her, that this Friend was in Love with Peppa, and that he had engaged himself to speak to her in his behalf; but that he resolved not to attempt it without ask her Advice. Julia surprised at her Husband's Discourse, counselled him forthwith, to undeceive his Friend, and told as a secret, that her Cousin was already so taken with a stranger, that tho' she had made use of all her Interest to exclude his Memory from her Thoughts, she found it was but to little purpose, and that her Cousin was resolved never to forget him. You did then oppose the Interest of my Friend, interrupted the Count? I doubt very much, replied Julia, whether you know him that I mean. The Count was going to give her an Answer, when he was informed that two strangers very earnestly enquired for him. He went out to know what they desired of him, and was sometime without knowing who they were. He perceived at last, that he whom he spoke to was the Chevalier— who was come to Genoa privately in a Disguise, and accompanied only with one Servant. The Count was overjoyed to see him, and carried him into a stately Apartment, that he had already prepared for him, and where the Chevalier changed his Habit for that which was more suitable to his Quality. They had together a long Dîscourse. Centurion gave him an Account of all that had passed at Genoa since his Absence, and particularly of the Motifs of his Marriage. The Chevalier confounded with these extraordinary Obligations which he had received from his Friend, could not find words capable of expressing how sensible he was of so true a Friendship. The Count told him that this very day there was to be in his Palace a great Feast, the Order whereof the Princess Doria had taken upon herself to regulate, and gave him also to understand, that perhaps he might procure him the Conversation of his Mistress; but because he had need of his Wife's help to succeed, he resolved to introduce the Chevalier into her Presence first, and thereupon he entered his Wife's Chamber, to prepare her for this Visit. He informed her of the Arrival of his Friend; and after having exaggerated to her the important service that this Friend had rendered him, he prayed her to receive him with all imaginable kindness for his sake. Julia who desired nothing so much as to please her Husband, promised him to follow his Orders, but ●he assured him again, that the greatest piece of Service, and of most Advantage for his Friend, would be to counsel him to think no more of her Cousin. Let not that trouble you, answered the Count, may be that Peppa is not of your Mind. He went out without staying for her Answer, returned a moment after, accompanied with the Chevalier. Julia, who knew him at first sight, to be her Cousin's Lover, was in so great a surprise, that she could scarce return the Civilities of the Chevalier, and complaining to her Husband, that he did not reveal to her his Friend's Name. Judge you, answered the Count, whether I had best counsel him to think no more of your Cousin? A Colour that overspread Julia's Face, hindered her from replying. The rest of their Discourse was of the Feast; They found it necessary that the Chevalier should not appear; but that he should remain hid in the Count's Apartment.  
The Princess Doria and Peppa arrived some time after at the Count Centurione's Palace. The Feast was carried on with a great deal of Magnificence; and the Marquis of Villa Mediana, who would not lose any Opportunity to be at all the Places where he might see Peppa, appeared in a Mask followed by several Slaves, wearing about their Necks Collars, with a Motto in Spanish, which signifies in our Language, Our Master has no more Liberty than we; but he was so little disguised, that every one knew who he was. Peppa, who could no longer suffer the tiresome Gallantries of this Marquis, drew near to her Cousin, and told her, that she had resolved to come no more to these kind of Feasts, that she might be delivered from the Importunities of this Spaniard, who endeavoured to infuse Love into her Breast at a Time when she had so much Reason to be afflicted, being separated from her Lover, and still in an uncertainty of seeing him again. Julia promised her with an Accent which showed the Astonishment she was in at a Passion so constant, that if the Picture of the Chevalier could give her any Consolation, she would show her one in her Husband's Closet, which represented him so lively, that she would be surprised at it. Peppa, whose Curiosity was very great in any Thing that related to her Amour, conjured her Cousin not to defer the giving her this Satisfaction, and of conducting her to this Closet. They wanted not a pretence to get out from the Company, and went directly to the Count's Closet, where he was alone with the Chevalier. Never was any Surprise more pleasing than Peppa's, when she beheld her Lover. The Chevalier cast himself at her Feet, and assured her, that he would now forget his past Misfortune, since he enjoyed the pleasure of seeing the Person that in the World was most dear to him. Peppa, who was unprepared for a happiness so extraordinary, was at first in some Confusion that her Lover should express himself so passionately in the Presence of Centurion; and seeking to save her Honour, which she imagined this Interview might blemish, she complained to her Cousin of the Cheat she had imposed on her. Julia presently guessing the Cause of her Confusion, told her that her Husband was infinitely obliged to the Chevalier, that they hide nothing from one another, and that she might declare her privatest Thoughts before him without any Reserve. Peppa taking Courage at this Discourse of her Cousin, did no longer dissemble the Joy that she had of seeing the Chevalier. They discovered to each other all that had passed, and gave an interchangeable Account of all the disturbances they had undergone since they had seen one another. Their Conversation had lasted much longer, if Julia, who fearing that the Princess Doria would be in search for her Daughter, had not advised her to make haste to return, for fear that she deferred it too long, she might be sent for, whereby that which they designed to keep secret, would be discovered. Peppa being afraid lest her Mother should find her in this place, prepared to follow her Cousin's Advice, but she made so little haste, that Julia was forced to take her by the hand, and carry her away almost by force. The Count seeing that the Chevalier, being deprived of what he loved, was in a condition which caused Pity, engaged his Wife to make an Invitation for the next day, and directed her chief to get a Promise from the Princess Doria, that she would bring Peppa with her again. The hopes of seeing one another the next day, diminished the Sore that the two Lovers had to be separated; and Julia accquitted herself so well of the Commission that her Husband gave her, that the Princess promised to leave her Daughter with her on the morrow all the day long. Peppa appeared to be in a very good Humour during the Remainder of the Feast. The Marquis of Villa Mediana, who expounded every thing to his Advantage, flattered himself that his Cares did not displease her; and as he had never seen her so Handsome as she was that day, he all along beheld her with a particular Attention. Peppa laughed to herself at the vain Cares of the Marquis, and was sometimes so malicious as to cast a Look towards him, but after such a manner as should not give him cause to have the least Hope; however a Spaniard flatters himself much more than another Man, and particularly in Love. The Marquis of Villa Mediana imagined that he was no longer indifferent to Peppa. Upon this ground he writ to the Spanish Court, and let his Relations understand that he had the esteem of Peppa, and that if the King of Spain would take notice of it to the Prince Doria, his Marriage would infallibly be accomplished.  
In the mean while the Countess Centurion failed not to go the next day to the Palace Doria, for to desire the Princess to keep the Promise which she had made her. The Princess who was now very well satisfied with her Daughter's Conduct, and who endeavoured to put out of her mind by all sorts of Complaisance, the injustice that she believed to have done her in suspecting her of a Love-Intrigue, consented without any difficulty, that the two Cousins should go out together, and promised within a little while to come to them. The Chevalier who expected his Mistress with the highest impatience, was in extraordinary transports of Joy at her coming; and whether the care she had taken in her Dress, or t●● Pleasure in beholding whom she lov'● gave a new Lustre to her Beauty, 〈◊〉 fancied, that he had never seen her 〈◊〉 handsome before.  
Although their Discourse was hel● in the Presence of the Count Centurion and his Wife, it was notwithstanding entirely moving and passionate; and as the Business of the State did touch both their particular Interest, they also spoke of that. Peppa acknowledged to the Chevalier, that it was a trouble to her, to behold the Conduct of those that governed the Republic, who took no care to put a stop to the Complaints that the King of France had made against them, whereof she feared the Consequence for the Interest of her Family, and for the further Obstacle that it might occasion to her own happiness. The Chavalier assured her, that whilst he was assured of her Love, the differences between the King and the Republic should never give him any Trouble, since that there was not any probability that so many great Men, which, as he had heard, did compose the Senate of Genoa, could think to resist a Monarch who had compelled some of the greatest Powers of Eu●●pe to accept the Conditions of Peace ●hat he had offered them. Peppa, and centurion approved of those Reasons, ●nd the Chevalier added, that after all ●hese beginnings of disorder were over, ●e flattered himself with the hopes that His Majesty would give him leave to ●eturn to Genoa, and to demand Peppa publicly of her Relations. This lovely Person sighed at his Proposal, and as she knew that the Chevalier exposed himself to all sorts of dangers, she conjured him to spare himself a little for her sake, and to think how that she should never be comforted for his Loss, and that therefore he ought to endeavour something in the Favour of a Person whose Life was wound up in his Destiny. So much goodness piercing the very Soul of the Chevalier, made him vow to her, that he was in despair to think of parting; but nevertheless his Honour, his Duty, and the attendance that he owed to the King his Master, obliged him to departed instantly for Toulon, there to receive the necessary Orders from Court. Peppa did not disapprove of his Reasons; she prayed him only that he would take all Opportunities to write to her, and bid him remember that this would be the only Pleasure she should receive in his Absence. She could not utter these last words without melting into Tears, which so sensibly touched the Chevalier, that he was ready to die with Grief at the feet of his Charming Mistress. The Count and his Wife took care to separate them before the Princess came, and were forced to deceive them both, for to prevent their Sorrow in taking leave of one another. They told the Chevalier that his Mistress was returned to her Father's, and assured Peppa that her Lover went away, that he might not be the cause of her relapsing into the like passionate Tenderness. And indeed he departed with his Friend, and returned with the greatest speed possible into France.  
Peppa remained so full of Grief for the departure of her Lover, that without listening to the Reasons that her Cousin alleged, to oblige her to overcome the disorder she was in, for fear lest the Princess Doria should surprise her in this Condition, she abandoned he self to her Grief, and was in Tears at the very moment that the Princess came. The Countess at first was in great confusion, both for her Cousin and herself; but she supplied by the ●eadiness of her Wit, the Indiscretion of Peppa, for it coming into her mind ●o hid a little Dog, that her Cousin ●ov'd very well, she went to receive ●he Princess in an Antichamber, and ●old her that he came in a good time ●o comfort Peppa, who was in the utmost affliction, because she had lost her Dog. The Princess finding her Daughter in Tears, told her that her Age did not admit of so much grief for the loss of a Dog, and that it would not be difficult to procure another as handsome as that which occasioned those Tears. The Countess assured her, that she would engage for the finding him again, but Peppa appeared not the less afflicted, and went away a little while after with the Princess Doria. However foreseeing that her Cousin might perhaps send her Dog the next day, she privately prayed her before she went out, to keep him at least a Week, that the pretence of her Sorrow might remain, lest otherwise the Truth might be suspected.  
The Princess Doria, who had sent a Man that she could trust into Germany, for to inform her Nephew of the Coun● Centurione's Marriage, and for to clear all the doubts which might have still remained in his Mind, received, about the same time, a very obliging Letter from the Marquis, which returned thanks for her kindness, and expressed to her the great sorrow that afflicted him for having displeased Peppa; he entreated further his Aunt to speak in his Favour, and that he would expect an Answer at Venice, assuring her, that he would not go from thence till his Mistress had pardoned him. The Princess, who cunningly managed this Affair, waited for a favourable opportunity to show her Daughter-in-law her Nephew's Letter. In the mean time Don Carlos Bacan, Envoy from Spain to the Republic of Genoa, went to the Prince Doria, as from the King his Master, to intimate to him, that this Monarch declared himself for the Interest of the Marquis of Villa Mediana; and that he could not by a more sensible mark, demonstrate his good Affection towards the Court of Spain, than by receiving this Gentleman for his Son-in-law; assuring him, that in favour of this Marriage, he would give him, when Opportunities did occur, all the marks of Esteem that he could desire. The Prince Doria received, with a profound Respect, the Honour that the King of Spain did him, and assured Don Carlos Baçan, that he would immediately advise with his Family about it; and that he would ever observe that Submission which was due to the Command of so great a Monarch. The Princess Doria was very much alarmed at this Negotiation; notwithstanding she managed her Husband's Mind with so much Address, and gave him such good Reasons, to let him see that the Marriage with the Marquis Spinola was a thousand times more fit, and more advantageous for Peppa, than with a Spaniard, of whom they had no knowledge, either of his Estate or Family, that at last the Prince Doria remained satisfied, and promised his Wife never to consent that his Daughter should marry the Marquis of Villa Mediana. In the mean while, the Princess Doria was resolved not to defer any longer the speaking to Peppa in behalf of her Nephew, and showed her the Letter she had received from him. Peppa, hiding part of her Resentment, answered her coldly, That her Honour had been too sensibly touched to hearken to a Man that had once no● esteemed her worthy of him. Th● Princess judging it not convenient t● press her any further, imagining that sh● should find some means in length of tim● to vanquish this nice Punctilio.  
As the Marquis of Villa Mediana ha● writ to Spain, that Peppa would not b● sorry to have him, and had the vanity to add several things to his advantage the Prince Doria near that time had 〈◊〉 Letter from a Genoese that was hi● Friend, who resided at Madrid. H● gave him an account, that he had heard talk of the offer that was made him to marry his Daughter to the Marquis of Villa Mediana, and how he also knew that the King of Spain used his Interest in the case; that thereupon he could not forbear counselling him as a Friend, that if he aimed at the Quiet and Satisfaction of his Family, he ought not to oppose this Marriage, being informed from good Hands, that the Marquis had before hand possessed himself of the good liking of his Daughter, and that therefore he ought, as a wise man, to consent handsomely to a thing that he could not easily hinder.  
The Prince Doria received this Letter with all the Regret and Despair of a Father, who has but one only Daughter, in whose Education he has taken great care, and who nevertheless disposes of herself without his share in the Approbation. Not knowing where to lay the blame, he complained of his Misfortune to his Wife, and reproached her, in showing her this Letter, with the Liberty that she had given to his Daughter. The Princess had no longer occasion of surprise at the Answer that Peppa made her, when she spoke to her of her Nephew. She advised her Husband to dissemble his Anger, and cunningly to endeavour to procure from Peppa a Confession of the Truth. Doria went directly into his Daughter's Chamber, and after he had exaggerated the Kindness that he had for her, the Care he had observed in her Education, and the Pains that he had taken, not only to conserve the Inheritance of his Fathers, but even to augment it; he told her that notwithstanding such manifest Obligations, he was informed from sure hands, that she had suffered herself to be led away by the subtlety of a Stranger. Peppa answering not a word to this discourse, her Father continued to exhort her to conceal nothing from him and promised her, that if she did dea● ingenuously, he would pass by all occasions of complaint against her, and would let her see, that he was very indulgent. Peppa, softened by these words and prepossessed that her Father mean● all this while the Chevalier, he being the sole person that she esteemed worthy of her Love, thought that now she would make good use of the favourable Disposition wherein she saw him, and casting herself at his Feet, her Eyes bathed in Tears, she confessed, that it was true, she did love. Her Father interrupted her, without giving her the time to explain herself any further, and after having reproved her with the highest Injuries and Reproaches, he returned into his Wife's Chamber, for fear that in his Anger, he might be moved to any violent action against his Daughter. He was so transported with his Passion, and at the same time so penetrated with grief, that he fell dangerously ill. All means were used for his Recovery, which being applied in time, did in a little while regain him his former health. His Wife, who every day saw him extremely animated against his Daughter, promised him, that ●f he would let her manage Peppa by a Contrivance to marry the Marquis Spinola, that she would take such exact measures, that none should know of it till 'twas done. Doria, not enduring the thoughts that a Spaniard should force himself into his Alliance, and become Master of all his Fortune, in spite of his endeavours to the contrary, declared, that he would take no farther care what Son-in-law he had, provided that Villa Mediana was not the Man. Soon after the Prince Doria being perfectly recovered, his Wife, with his private consent, feigned that she had made a Vow to our Lady of Loretto for the recovery of her Husband, and declared that she would go for to acquit herself of it. Peppa, who was very glad of this Occasion, to show that she was no less forward than the Princess in the care of her Father's Health, declared, that it would be a great satisfaction to her to accompany her in this Journey; and they set out so secretly, that only the Countess Centurion was advertised of their departure.  
The Princess Doria assured of her Husband's consent, and prepossessed that Peppa had not any natural Aversion against the Marquis Spinola, although she had still observed some trouble in her Carriage, resolved to finish cunningly the work that she had begun so many years ago, and having sent a Man in whom she could confide, to her Nephew, who was then at Venice, she sent him word, that it was time to conclude an Affair that the two Families equally desired; that therefore, as Peppa was one of the richest Heiresses of Italy, and that new obstacles might probably ●rise to prevent his Marriage, she had determined, thereby to avoid all Inconveniencies, to bring Peppa with her to Loretto, to the end, that he might seize upon her at their return along the Adriatick-shore, where they must of necessity pass. She added, that it being usual to see Pirate-ships send their Pinnaces ashore, and take away by force whatsoever they meet with, she judged it fit that he should arm a little Frigate, and that he might not render himself odious to his Mistress by this Violence, if he appeared in it, he should send a Pinnace ashore with eight or ten of his Men clothed like Turks, who might ●eset a little before day, a loan House, where she would lodge purposely; and ●hat these Men, after having carried ●hem away, and led them into their Pinnace, should take care to terrify them by all the appearances of a cruel Slavery, and that the next morning betimes the Marquis should pursue the Pinnace with his little Frigate, and after a short engagement should take it, and deliver them: That if he executed all this with Judgement, Peppa, that was of the Humour of the greatest part of young Ladies, who are always overjoyed to have those that court them, do something for them that is extraordinary, would be sensible of the Bravery that he might show in relieving her, and would think herself very happy to fall into his Hands, after having escaped from those of the Turks; that thereupon he should conduct her to Venice, where she would take care to have a Priest ready to marry them, whilst the Impression of the great Service he had done in delivering her remained yet strong in her Fancy.  
The Marquis received this Project with all the Joy imaginable, and as Time and the Advices which the Princess had frequently given him, served but to make him the more amorous, he prepared all things on his side to put in execution. The Princess always lodged at her return in small straggling Inns, to bring her Project about. 'Twas in one of these Houses, between Rimini and Ancona, that the counterfeit Turks, sent by the Marquis Spinola, put themselves in a posture to seize upon the Princess and Peppa, and to carry them off. They soon rendered themselves Masters of the great Gate of the Inn, and having terrified the Servants by some violent Actions at their first entrance, they run up into the Princess' Chamber, who had her Daughter in the same Room with her, and rudely forced them to dress themselves with speed. The Princess, who saw Peppa very much alarmed, began to counterfeit a Greatness of Mind, and exhorted her to submit to her Destiny without murmuring, assuring her, (by a kind of a Prophetic Spirit) that Heaven would not abandon her.  
The Chevalier of— who was just upon going to take a great Voyage at Sea, was desirous to take leave of his Mistress before he embarked. He went Post to Genoa, accompanied with one of his Friends; having understood, when they arrived, that Peppa was gone to Loretto, he continued on his Journey, with design to meet his Mistress, since his time would not permit him to stay for her at Genoa. He happened to arrive very late at the Inn where Peppa lodged that same night that the Counterfeit Turks were executing the design of carrying her away. As this Project could not be put in execution without some noise, the Chevalier, and he that accompanied him, being awaked out of their Sleep, started up, and quickly dressing themselves, followed them so close, that they came up with the Men just as they were preparing to carry off the Ladies on board of their Pinnace. They charged them with that Courage, that these supposed Pirates, who did not expect to find so fierce a Prevention, left the Princess and her Women, and retired in disorder. However, notwithstanding the Confusion they were in, three of the strongest, who probably knew their Master's Secret, seized Peppa, and fled in all haste towards their Pinnace. The Chevalier having overheard her Voice, pursued them so hard, and with so much Courage, that he presently disabled two of them, and went to run his Sword through the other, when that this wretch fell down, and begged him to spare his Life, assuring him, that he was no Turk, but that he and his Companions were employed by the Marquis Spinola, who had agreed with the Princess Doria to steal away this fair person that he had now delivered. Peppa was so troubled, both with her Adventure, and with what she heard this fellow relate, that she scarce yet knew to whom she was obliged for her Liberty. She just began to thank her Deliverer in terms full of Esteem and Acknowledgement, when she discerned by the dawning of the ●ay, that she spoke to the Chevalier of—. Never in so small a time was any one removed from a great Terror into a perfect Joy. A moment before she thought herself a Slave, and whilst her Mind was still possessed with frightful Ideas, she found herself in the Arms of a Lover beloved. So agreeable a change is far more easy to imagine than to express. The Chevalier related to Peppa, that he came to Genoa with a design to see her, and that not having time to expect her return from Loretto, he had determined to meet her on the Road; that he arrived last night late in this Inn, where his good Fortune had conducted him so opportunely; thereupon he offered to carry her into France, to secure her from the Violence of her Relations. Peppa imagining at first, that the Chevalier spoke this only to prepare he● for a design of forcing her out of the Hands of her Father and Mother, let him understand, that her Father had some knowledge of his Passion, and told him, that she did not despair of gaining at last his Consent for their mutual happiness; therefore she conjured him not to destroy the Merit of the Service that he had now done her. The Chevalier, who of all Lovers was the most respectful, threw himself at her Feet, and complained of the mean Opinion she had of him, assuring h●r, that he would rather die a thousand times, than to have the least thought of displeasing her. They continued, saying a thousand kind and passionate things to one another, and gave new Assurances, that their Love should last with their Lives. The Chevalier, who would not be known by the Princess; and who after he had broke her Measures, would not have been very well received by her, desired his Mistress to permit him not to appear, and that after having conducted her safe to the House where she had lodged, he might remain undiscovered, and following her at some distance, might be her Guard till she came to Genoa. Peppa acquiesced in his Sentiments, and in parting, when she perceived she was just arrived at the Inn, she prayed him to remember, that working her safety, was employing himself for that person in the World who desired most to complete his happiness. The Chevalier had no sooner left his Mistress, but he met immediately the Gentleman who had seconded him in attacking the Counterfeit Turks. This Gentleman, who had been troubled all this while for his absence, told him, that he had been careful to attend the Princess Doria, and to prevent any ill usuage that might have been offered her during this Confusion, but she showed so little Acknowledgement, that far from thanking him, her discourse appeared full of Discontent, letting him know that she was not at all obliged to him for his having exposed his Life for her. This was no matter of surprise to the Chevalier, who presently imparted to his Friend what he had discovered concerning the private Intelligence that was between the Princess and the Ravisners; and the Promise that he had made to this lovely Creature, to be always near, during the rest of the way to Genoa, that he might be able to assist her, if there should be made any further Attempt.  
In the mean while the Princess Doria, whom the Chevalier's Friend carried back to the Inn, and who feigned in the presence of her Women to be much troubled, was comforted in her mind for the Misfortune which had happened to her Nephew's Men, being prepossessed, as several Persons had assured her, that they had carried Peppa off. She began already to think of going immediately to Venice, to authorize the Marriage of her Daughter-in-Law, by her Presence, and by the Consent of her Father, which she had under his Hand, when that Peppa entered the Room. At first she appeared in a very great astonishment; but as Ladies, and particularly those in Italy, without any Difficulty at all can dissemble their real Sentiments, the Princess threw herself about her Daughter's Neck, and outwardly showed an extreme Joy to see her escaped from so great a danger. Peppa, who concealed also what she had heard, and who was still sensibly touched with what her Lover had just related, about his being forced to return immediately into France, embraced her Mother-in-Law, the Tears flowing from her Eyes. They presently parted from hence, followed at some distance by the Chevalier and his Friend. While they were on their Journey to Genoa, the Marquis of Villa Mediana made use of all his industry to gain the Prince Doria over to his side. He engaged his greatest Friend to speak to him in behalf of his Love, and made him see so many advantages for his Family, and chief for his own Person; that Doria was vexed that he had given his consent to his Wife, to marry his Daughter to the Marquis Spinola; but when that he understood by a Letter from the Princess, the unfortunate success of this Project, he thought that Heaven would not permit this marriage, since it raised so many Difficulties, and now no longer scrupled to give Peppa to the Marquis of Villa Mediana, especially when he reflected upon the agreeable surprise this would be to his Daughter, by declaring to her such News, as he did really believe would be pleasing.  
As soon as the Princess and Peppa were returned to Genoa, the Chevalier being obliged to be at Toulon before the departure of the Fleet, quitted this beloved Place, without having so much time as to contrive an Interview with his fair Mistress. In the mean while the Marquis of Villa Mediana, who was satisfied of the good Intentions that the Prince Doria had for him, appeared with a most magnificent Livery, and frequented all the Streets, and all Places where he believed he should see Peppa. As she was thus importuned with his Services, she took hold of all Opportunities to treat him ill, and was so malicious as to place herself in the Church so, that the Spaniard could never see her Face. The Princess Doria being informed by her Husband, of the Design that he had to marry Peppa to this Gentleman, observed several times, that her Daughter-in-Law was always careful to avoid him, and that she appeared to have an extreme Aversion against him. She had much ado to comfort herself for not having succeeded in concluding the Marriage of her Nephew, and this Design running in her Head, the least matter raised her hopes. Therefore she gave an Account to her Husband, that Peppa seemed very far from having any Inclinations for the Marquis of Villa Mediana. The Prince Doria, prepossessed (as he thought) with the contrary by the confession of his Daughter, judged, as all Fathers are easily induced to flatter themselves, that Peppa used this constraint because she would not displease him. This supposed constraint so worked upon him, that going thereupon to Peppa's Chamber, he declared to her, that forgetting his own peculiar Interest, and not weighing what would be most advantageous for his Family, he had considered only of making her happy, and had determined in favour of the goo● will that she had for the Marquis 〈◊〉 Villa Mediana, to marry her to this Spaniard. Peppa remained so amazed at a Discourse she so little expected, that it was impossible for her to answer one Word. A Moment after she fell in a swoon upon her Bed. The Prince Do●ia, surprised and troubled at the swooning of his Daughter, called for help; ●eppa's Women ran in to her Assistance, ●nd the Princess came soon after. When ●●e saw that she was recovered, she endeavoured to console her by all the ●ays of flattering and caressing, and at length demanded of her from whence ●his Fainting did proceed. Peppa owned ●hat she never had a strong Aversion, ●ut against one only person, and that nevertheless she was so unhappy, that ●er Father had made choice of this ●ery same Person to make his Son-in-Law. The Princess, after having assured her that the Prince Doria would not use such Violence to her Affections, went towards her Husband, and blamed him very much for having driven his Daughter into Despair, since that he might have remembered, how she had already perceived that Peppa had no inclinations for Villa Mediana. Doria, ●●o comprehended nothing of all this ●hat he heard, believed that his Wife, who as she was ingenious and contriving, had turned the Mind of his Daughter, and had engaged her to prefer the Marquis Spinola before the Spaniard, which confirmed him in the Opinion that he had already of the Inconstancy of the greatest part of Women; but he was nevertheless in a great Perplexity and Doubt what measures to take.  
In the mean time, as the Senate did not proceed to any Resolution to satisfy the King of France, upon those occasions of Complaint that he had caused to be declared to the Republic, the French Envoy retired from Genoa; which raised cruel Apprehensions in the Minds of the greatest part of the Senators, especially since they came to know that there was fitting out at Toulon a great Fleet, and that all the Ships were loaded with a prodigious quantity of Bombs, Granades, and Mortar-pieces. The Commonalty maintained that all these great Preparations were made against the Algereens, whom the French designed to exterminate. The greatest part of the Genoeses believed all this to be very probable; besides they were so possessed, that it was a difficult matter for any State to injure them, that they would never believe that these forces were preparing against Genoa; but the wiser sort who know that Kings do seldom ●et Affronts go unpunished, lived in great fears, and were of Opinion that ●hey ought to accommodate the matter with that King upon any Terms. The public Affairs employed every Body ●o hard, and private persons were so assiduous at Council, and at the different Assemblies that were thereupon summoned, that none had leisure to think of their domestic Affairs. The Prince Doria, who was without contradiction one of the most considerable of the City, was called every moment to the Consultation of the Senate, and the little Time that he had to himself, obliged him to defer his private Affairs. He determined therefore, by the Counsel of his Wife, not to fix upon any Resolution about the Marriage of his Daughter, while this Business which concerned the public was not fully decided.  
While the Affairs of Genoa were in this Condition, Peppa lived in continual fears, encompassed with her Enemies, under the Authority of a Father, who would sacrifice her to a Spaniard, and under a Mother-in-Law, who meditated new Projects to betray her to the Marquis Spinola. Every thing wa● suspected by her, and at last the public Calamity became her private consolation; for the formidable Fleet tha● the French fitted out, and the just occasions of Complaint that the King had against the Genoeses, though a matter of disquiet to all, was the only Subject of her joy, and the only thing that nourished her Hopes, because that if the French King became Master of Genoa, she should then have the Pleasure, by loving the Chevalier of— to be assured beforehand of a Powerful Protector for her Family. As she could not find one Person but what spoke against the French, she avoided all Conversation: Her Cousin to whom she disclosed her most secret thoughts, was the only Person that she thought endued with Reason, since she condemned not the French.  
Much about that time they heard that the Divan of Algiers, more cunning than the Senate of Genoa, had made his Peace with the King, without staying for new Marks of his Anger, and that he had already sent away Ambassadors, to ask this Monarch Pardon for what was passed. This news put the Genoeses quite into Despair, no longer doubting but that the Storm which was gathered about Toulon, would fall upon their City. The Senate assembled at all Hours in the Day; at every turn they were making new Propositions, but never came to any Conclusion. The Wisest were of Opinion that it was best to send away Post an Ambassador to make their Submission to the King; others judged that it was too late. The Envoy of Spain hereupon arrived, promised them that they should not want a Fleet bravely manned, nor a Warlike Army: And he would send for all the Gold of Peru for their Service. Although their Counsels were very different, they received however a Spanish Regiment into the City, which the Governor of Milan sent thither. They also recalled all the Bandits, and as much as the Confusion (wherein they were) would permit them, they distributed through all Parts such Orders as were necessary to put them in a Condition of making a vigorous Resistance. In the mean time the most considerable Persons of the City, sent their Wives and Children to Milan, and to the other neighbouring Villages. The Prince Doria, after having most tenderly embraced his Wife and his Daughter, would also have them take their Leave of Genoa, and gave them an Equipage more numerous than magnificent. He advised the Princess his Wife to retire either to Milan, or to Turin, which she thought most convenient; and above all things recommended his Daughter to her Care. The Princess Doria, who had still a design for her Nephew, and who feared the Authority of the Marquis of Villa Mediana, would not therefore go to Milan, lest she should deliver herself up into the Hands of the Spaniards. She retired to Turin, where she had some Relations, believing as she had Reason, that she should there have her Liberty more than at Milan. Soon after her Arrival, she writ to the Marquis Spinola, who was still at Venice, sending him Word that she impatiently expected him.  
The Court of Savoy, which is without contradiction one of the most polite in all Europe, has been an inviolable Sanctuary for the Illustrious Unfortunate. It would be even a difficult matter to find a Stranger that was ever discontented with his Reception at Turin. The Officers of the Portuguese Fleet can testify, whether Victor Amadeus the Second, who now Reigns in- Savoy and P●●●mont, has degenerated from the Magnificency of his Ancestors; and of la●e, the Officers of the King of France's Household, retired from Ch●●●b●ay, loaden with Presents, and so extremely satisfied with their acting after an obliging manner, which doubled their value, that at their return, there was not one but what spoke the Eulogies of the Duke of Savoy. This Prince had just espoused Mademoiselle, the Offspring of many Kings, and to speak in a word, Daughter to Monsieur of France. Upon the Princess Doria's arriving at Turin, the Duke, who knew her Merit and Quality, received her with all the marks of Esteem that she could wish or expect, and offered her very obligingly, all that was in his Power. Peppa, who did not want the Assistance of her Birth, to gain the Respects of all wheresoever she appeared, was regarded by all the Nobility with Admiration. The Ladies perhaps could not see her without some Jealousy, whereof there was no great cause of wonder. Nevertheless she was not at any of the Diversions that the Duke of Savoy had prepared at the arrival of the Duchess, because the Princess Doria pretended to a Pre-eminence which could not be granted her, without Injustice to several Ladies of extraordinary Quality, who were at the Court of Savoy. The Nobility, who would have been very glad to have seen Peppa at all the Entertainments, proposed several Expedients, to satisfy the Princess Doria; but as it is much more easy to regulate the Interests of Princes, than the Ranks of Ladies, they found it impossible to bring it to a Conclusion. The disorder of the Affairs at Genoa served well enough for a Pretence to excuse her absence from the Diversions of the Court; for there came news, that the French Fleet was before Genoa, that several Volunteers had landed, and that after having made themselves Masters of the Fort of St. Peter di Arena, they had burnt those fine Country-Houses which were the Delight of the Genoeses; that the Frigates warping close to the City, had cast into it such a prodigious quantity of Bombs and Granado's, that it appeared rather a Mount-Etna covered with Flames, than that Genoa which was named Genoa la superba; and in fine, that the Consternation was so great, that several Families retired to the Mountains, and abandoned both their Goods and their Houses; esteeming themselves happy if they could secure their persons safe, as well from the Fire, as from the Banditti, who began to pillage the City. There was added to all these Circumstances, that the French had lost several Volunteers at their landing before the Fort of St. Peter di Arena, and that also a Chevalier of a very great worth, who was one of the most considerable Officers of the Fleet had been killed upon the place; and that he was generally lamented by all the Army. All this news was a sensible affliction to the Princess Doria; but when that Peppa was informed of the loss that the French had received, and of the death of a Chevalier, who was a person very deserving; her Love, which at this Report was alarmed, made her tremble for the Life of her Lover, and all the Circumstances that she had heard of the Merit of this Chevalier, and of the sorrow that every body showed for his loss, increased her Terror. She privately retired, and beforehand gave herself wholly up to all the Emotions of Grief, which a person that loves tenderly can be capable of at such a time. She passed over two whole days without mitigating in the least her trouble: Her Grief oppressed her in a very high degree, and although she had still a small spark of hopes left her, believing that there must be several Officers of Merit in so great a Fleet as this of the King's, she durst not however inquire of the Particulars of the News, fancying that whatsoever she should hear spoke of the Chevalier that was dead could be applied to none but her Lover. The Princess Doria, who would not be comforted for the Misfortunes wherewith her Country was oppressed, had not observed the great Disturbance that Peppa lay under. But seeing that she came not out to receive the Ladies that visited them, she sent to her to come into her Chamber for to hear the reading of a long News-Letter in the presence of several persons, giving an account of all that had passed at Genoa. Although Peppa had resolved to prefer the cruelest troubles wherein she was, before the clearing her Doubts, which might prove either very Tragical, or else very pleasing, yet she could not resist her timorous and pressing Curiosity to be informed of the destiny of her Lover. She entered her Mothers-in-law Chamber, where she found several Ladies who impatiently expected her, but rather for to know the particulars of the Affairs of Genoa. The Princess Doria read her Letter, which confirmed all that she had heard before at Turin. They sent her word, after the several Circumstances of the French landing, that they had lost upon the spot, several Officers, and that above all, they were extremely afflicted for the loss of the Chevalier de Lhery, who was a Gentleman much esteemed, and who upon all occasions had given proof of his Valour and Conduct. This name which sounded like that of the Chevalier of—, whether or no it was ill spelt in the Letter, or that the Princess pronounced it not well in Italian, cast Peppa into such an excess of Grief, that it deprived her of her Senses. She understood it to be the Chevalier of—, and at the same moment she fainted away upon a Couch where she sat. The Ladies ran to her assistance, but had no suspicion that the loss of the French was the cause of her fainting, being persuaded that Peppa, touched with the Relation of so many Misfortunes, whereof the French Fleet had been the occasion at Genoa, was thereupon seized with this weakness. They had much ado to recover her, and were forced at last to call her Women to her, who having quickly undressed her, put her to Bed. She was pierced to the Heart with this cruel News, and fell into so violent a disorder, that she spent several days with a careless Indifference for every thing, and almost without any visible Sense; and if there was sometimes a small interval from her excess of Grief, 'twas only to make her the more tormentingly sensible of her loss. She reproved herself, for her (as she thought) Indifference, for having still had the Courage to live, since she could no longer doubt the death of her Lover; she continued many days in these cruel agonies, but at last, the force of her Youth surmounted so far that of her Grief, as to permit her, when she had no Company in her Chamber, to pass some melancholy moments in breathing forth this Song.  

COme, come gentle Death, and close these Eyes;  
come stop the Current of my Grief;  
on you my Rest relies,  
be quick with your Relief:   

For by the chance of War my Damon's laid,  
mangled, and bloody in his Grave:  
Oh God Oh God of Battle! No distinction made  
between the Coward, and the Brave!   

Zelinda weep, Zelinda weep, until thy Tears  
drown both thyself, and all thy Cares;  
but hasten sooner, (oh ye Gods!) my Doom,  
that I may fly, that I may fly to Damon in his Tomb,  
to Da╌mon in his Tomb.   
The Princess Doria, who daily expected her Nephew, whom she knew was gone from Venice, left nothing untried to manage the Inclinations of Peppa, and although she could not comprehend the Reason of the Despair wherewith she saw her oppressed, she notwithstanding acted with all imaginable Complaisance. The Marquis Spinola, being arrived at Turin about this Time, went immediately to find his Aunt, who received him with inexpressible Joy; but she durst not present him to her Daughter-in-Law, in the Disorder wherein she then was. However the next day after his Arrival, she would carry him to see Peppa, but bethinking herself of the Anguish that afflicted her, she desired the Marquis to stay in the Antichamber, whilst she would go and prepare her to receive him obligingly. She thereupon went into Peppa's Chamber, and after having ordered the Women to withdraw that served her, she told her that the Marquis Spinola was just arrived, that he had passed through Genoa, and that he could give a more particular account of every Accident that had happened there. Peppa, who presently perceived that the Princess aimed at some new Design in favour of her Nephew, gave her not time to proceed, but interrupting her with Tears in her Eyes, told her that she would now no longer make a Secret of her Inclinations which she had hid till then, since also she had now nothing more to trust to, being resolved to deprive herself of Worldly Converse, which was become insupportable to her. She then declared that she had all along had some Inclination for the Chevalier of— since they saw one another at the Ball, that was given at the Palace of the Marquis Justiniani; that Sympathy had worked the same Effect upon the mind of the Chevalier who retired into France, for to avoid the Consequence of this Inclination, which forced him to love in spite of all his Resolution; that they had run over two years without either seeing or knowing one another till the time that the Marquis Spinola being by chance returned from Rome with the Chevalier of— had conducted him to their House, and so had unknowingly given them the Opportunity to revive their first Sentiments, to declare anew their Affections, and to love with a Passion most violent and lasting; that in the end, their Love had taught them an Expedient both to see, and to Writ to one another, as well as to exchange on both sides an Assurance to continue firm in their Sentiments. 'Twas he, added Peppa, that arrived so opportunely in the way to Loretto, as to deliver me from the Turks, who were not what they appeared, for one of them confessed to us, that they were employed by your Nephew, who had privately agreed with you, to carry me off by force. I never yet spoke to you of it, because being assured of the Constancy of my Lover, all other things gave me not the least trouble. I still flattered myself with the Hopes that the Senate would make their Peace with the King of France, and that that might facilitate our Marriage; but all these flattering hopes are vanished, and I now propose to myself no other Consolation but that of lamenting the Loss of my Lover, all the rest of my Life. She poured forth a Flood of Tears, in uttering these last words. Nevertheless she continued her Discourse, and told the Princess that she was resolved to go throw herself at the feet of the Duchess, to entreat her Protection, and to beg that she might be received into the Society of the Nuns of the Annunciation. However, if after the Confession that she had made, there remained yet in her Breast some Sentiments of Compassion for her, she might if she pleased easily save her the Confusion that would seize her when she went to inform so great a Princess of her weakness, and prevent her becoming the talk of all the Court; wherefore she expected this promise from her that she might be conducted to this Convent wherein she desired to enter without staying for her Father's Orders. The Princess melted into Tears at her Relation, and had scarce the Force either to blame her weakness, or to make her sensible that she shared in her Grief. She at last assured her, that she would contribute to her satisfaction as far as possible she could, and went out to entertain the Marquis Spinola, who had overheard all their Conversation, and who was so sensibly afflicted with Grief at the Recital Peppa had made, that 'twas not difficult to be discerned when the Princess came to him. He was infinitely concerned to have been thus long a Pretext to his Aunt for opposing a Passion both so real and so tender. He was then of the mind that if he had but known how conformable were the Sentiments of Peppa and the Chevalier, he would have taken no small delight in serving them and favouring their design. The Princess was extremely surprised to find her Nephew in this condition, but she was much more so, when he told her that he heard all that Peppa had said to her, and that he was sensibly grieved, as well for the Sorrow she endured, as for the Death of the Chevalier. He mentioned him with the greatest marks of Esteem, and complained to his Aunt of the trouble that she had given the two Lovers. The Princess assured him that she never had any Knowledge of their Passion, and told him ●urther, that in the condition wherein Affairs were then, she would have advised her Husband not to refuse the Chevalier his Daughter, since that he loved her so entirely, because it might very probably come to pass that if the Senate did not find some Means to appease the King, this Monarch would reduce the whole State of Genoa under his Subjection.  
In the mean time the Chevalier of— being informed that his Mistress was at Turin, immediately took post thither: As soon as he was landed, he happened by chance to stop at the same house where the Marquis Spinola lodged. Our Marquis presently knew him, and was so surprised to see a man whom he was informed was dead, that he looked at him several times without saluting him, imagining that he was mistaken by the Resemblance of some Features. The Chevalier, who judged by the surprise of the Marquis that he had knowledge of his Passion, did not forbear coming up to him, and saluting him very civilly. He then told him, that he was persuaded that the same Affair was the cause of both their Journeys to Turin. The Marquis ●●●lling himself out of the Surprise he was in, returned the Compliment to the Chevalier, and declared to him that (waving whether or no they came both upon the same Errand,) he knew, that for his part, he esteemed no Business more important, than the care he always took to contribute to his happiness. He gave him an Account of the Report that was spread abroad of his Death, by what means he had heard the particulars of his Love towards his own Mistress, of the despair Peppa was in, and of the extraordinary Resolution that she had taken, to leave the World, and to shut herself up for ever in a Convent. The Chevalier harkened with infinite satisfaction to Peppa's Resolution, which sufficientciently justified the Strength of her Passion; but having heard that she was sick, and that no body was permitted to enter into her Chamber, he believed it a very difficult thing for him to see her, especially having the Princess Doria against him, who had in Prospect what was wholly opposite to his Love. The Marquis left him still in his Error, and without letting him know that the Princess would be more favourable to him than he could imagine, he only promised him that he would find out some means to introduce him secretly to Peppa. This Promise put the Chevalier into a great Ecstasy. He embraced the Marquis, who left him to go speak to the Princess. She appeared to him much concerned that Peppa still persisted in her first Resolution, and was continually pressing her to be carried to the Nunnery of the Annunciation. The Marquis told her that he was just come from a Gentleman whom he had known at Rome, and whose fame was very great for his Ability in curing any Distemper of the Mind, and that if she pleased, he would bring him that he might give his Opinion of the despair and trouble which Peppa laboured under; and he would assure her before hand, that this Gentleman would diminish much of her trouble assoon as ever he had but spoke to her. The Princess who was still far from suspecting the Mystery that the Marquis hid from her, conjured him to bring this Gentleman the very same day. She added so many things concerning the Joy she should receive, if she could but give Peppa as great an occasion now to commend her, as formerly she had reason to be displeased, that the Marquis Spinola thought he might no longer dissemble the happy Rencounter that he had made. He was resolved however to know, before he told her that the Chevalier was living, if she would really favour his Passion, as she declared how much she wished to have been made sensible of it before. He turned the Discourse to the Affairs of Genoa; and after he had exaggerated the Importance thereof, he told her that he had heard from very good hands, that a general Peace was agreed on, none having had so much care for the Interest of the Republic, as to see that Genoa should be included, the French King having reserved to himself what punishment he had designed them, that this caused in him a great deal of Fear for his Country, and she might hereby see that the Marriage of Peppa with the Chevalier of— would have been very advantageous to her Family. The Princess who admitted all these Reasons of her Nephew to be very substantial, assured him that she should not have opposed it, if the Correspondence that the Chevalier had with Peppa, had but been known to her. Since that you are in this mind, replied the Marquis, it depends now upon you to oblige the Republic with a Protector, who has no small Power in the French Court, and engage Peppa to you by an everlasting Acknowledgement, and to do an Action which will Crown you with Glory. The Chevalier of— is not dead; and to conceal nothing from you, 'tis he that I intent to bring to Peppa, under the name of the Gentleman of Rome, who is Master of such great Secrets in Physic. The Interest of our Republic, as well as the Esteem that I have for him, persuades me to propose to him that he should marry Peppa privately; and methinks by all the Reasons which I have urged, you must needs receive a great satisfaction in being favourable to the Passion of two Persons who have loved so long and so tenderly. Although the Princess Doria was convinced with these Reasons of her Nephew, she was notwithstanding in a great Perplexity. She feared to take upon her an Affair so nice; but the Marquis still alleged so many Reasons, and so earnestly begged her to grant him the Favour which he asked, that she promised at last to consent to the Union of these two Lovers. She would however let Peppa take the Pleasure of the surprise, and told the Marquis that without letting her re●eive the least notice of the Truth, she would propose to her only to see a Man who would engage for her Recovery. The Marquis returned to find out the Chevalier, who upon the hopes of the Assistance promised, did now suffer a most tormenting Impatience for the sight of him. He assured him, that he should quickly see Peppa; and the Thanks that ●he received for it, convinced him so much of the true Passion he had for her, that he believed he might now be plain with him. He therefore counselled him, since that he was so much in Love, to think of contriving a secret Marriage, and not to expose any longer a Passion so true, so reciprocal, and so tender, to the uncertain Events of Fortune, which might still produce new Obstacles. He promised him further, that he would make all the Interest he could with the Princess Doria, in his Favour. The Chevalier, who durst not have extended his Hopes so far, was charmed with this Promise; and embracing the Marquis, told him, That this was giving him more than a Life, to obtain of the Princess, that she would let him marry Peppa. They continued a long Conversation together, and the Chevalier showed so fervent a Passion, that the Marquis had much  to forbear disclosing what Sentiments the Princess had for him. Judge to what great excess was his Joy, when that the Marquis having gone out the next morning, returned a little while after, he told him, That he had discoursed with his Aunt, and that having let her know that he was still not only alive, but that it was his highest Ambition to make Peppa sensible of his Love, by any Obligation whatsoever that might be proposed to him, he had found her disposed to agree to all that he could expect. His Happiness appeared so little credible, that he was long in doubt, whether or no his Sense of Hearing was as good as it used to be. He made the Marquis repeat over again several times the Assurance he had given him of the Consent he had obtained of the Princess. The Service that he had done for him, exciting his Acknowledgements, made him that he did not know how to leave off returning Thanks, which he expressed with a Zeal that sufficiently testified the strength of his Passion. It was indeed too violent, to let him defer any longer the seeing of the Princess Doria. He conjured the Marquis to carry him to her, and he had all the reason in the World to be satisfied with his Reception. She assured him very obligingly, That she would not have persuaded her Daughter-in-law to marry her Nephew, but that she was ignorant that she was preengaged; and that when she had heard of the secret Intelligence that had passed between them, she lamented his death, which put it out of her Power to make amends for the Disquiets whereof she had been the cause. She added, smiling, That she much feared that Peppa was not in a Humour to receive his Visit; because she had mentioned him as a Man admirable in curing such Distempers that all other Physicians had not the least Knowledge of; to which all the Answer she received, was, That far from admitting of a Cure, she should die with Grief, if she did believe herself capable of receiving any Comfort. I believe, continued the Princess, speaking to the Chevalier, that she remains still in the same Resolution of not seeing you. I'll once more try if I can't succeed this time, than you shall use the Power you have over her. In speaking these words she conducted the Chevalier to her Daughter's Apartment; and leaving him in the Antichamber with the Marquis, she went in to Peppa, who had kept her Bed two days. She in vain endeavoured to make her consent to the Visit they came to make her. Peppa remained all along obstinate in refusing. It is not just, said the Princess to her, to have that Complaisance for you, as to let you die without help. At these words she ordered one of her Women, who waited, to introduce the Gentleman that was in the Antichamber, and who had boasted to have a sure Remedy for her Distemper. Peppa, whom her Sorrow made always wish to be alone, and who could not comprehend, that there could be any Remedy for a troubled Mind, where the Body suffered not, complained of the Violence that she imposed upon her; and perceiving a Gentleman enter her Chamber, she turned to the other side, without so much as looking on him, being resolved to make no Answer to any of the Questions that he might ask her about her Illness. The Princess convinced more and more of her real Grief, pleased herself with the thoughts of the sudden change that she would find in her condition; and stepping towards the Chevalier, I'll leave you all alone with the sick person, said she to him, The restless condition wherein her Disease has cast her, having made her averse to all manner of Physic, I perceive she designs not to hearken to you; but I hope, that since you are master of such an infallible Secret, as I have heard reported, you have also Skill enough to persuade her to make use of it. She went out in saying that, to her Nephew, who attended in the Antichamber, till 'twas time for him to come in. In the mean while the Chevalier approached to the Bed, where his Mistress lay, and for to oblige her to turn towards him; What, said he to her, can't all my earnest desires of offering you my Service, merit so much as one look? Have you such great reason to hate your life, that nothing in the World can oblige you to preserve it?  
These words letting her hear a Voice like that of her Lover, cast her into a Disorder which is impossible to describe, she thrust forth a sigh at the remembrance of his loss; and not daring to believe that the news of the Chevalier's death was false, she remained still in the same condition, without looking towards him that spoke to her. In the name of Goodness, continued the Chevalier, disdain not my Care. What fatal Resolution soever you have taken, perhaps you may change it, if you will but admit of my Assistance. He pronounced these words with an Accent so tender, that Peppa trembling, and in disorder, turned at last towards him, and raising her Eyes up to his Face, she knew again all those Features, of which her Heart was but too full. You live then, said she to him, with a feeble and unassured Voice, may I believe my Eyes, and am I not in a Dream? I do live, answered the Chevalier, and while you see that all my Endeavours are to be with you, you would be unjust, if you did not believe, that I live only for you.  
We must no longer believe it possible to die with Joy, since Peppa could suffer the Emotions which a sight so dear, and so agreeable caused in her. The Chevalier transported with Love, told her in the most obliging and softest terms, That he was not in a condition to demonstrate openly the greatness of his Passion, but he would sacrifice to her his All, and never part from her more. The Liberty that now was permitted them to speak without Constraint, gave them the opportunity of declaring what they had suffered for one another, they made a thousand Protestations of an everlasting Constancy; and their Conversation had not been so soon finished upon a Subject so inexhaustible, if the Princess, who was impatient to participate in their Satisfaction, had not entered with her Nephew. Peppa at that moment began to reflect upon what her Grief had often made her speak in her hearing; the Remembrance hereof put her into a Confusion that would scarce let her look up. The Princess Doria dissipated this trouble, in declaring to her that she might follow the Dictates of her Heart, and that far from opposing the happy success of a Passion that she saw so well established, she brought her Nephew to her, who renouncing in favour of the Chevalier all the Pretensions that he had made formerly, came now to assure her that he aspired but to this only Advantage of being received as a Friend to them both. The Marquis Spinola confirmed this Assurance by all that the most real and sincere Friendship can inspire in a generous Heart; and Peppa full of acknowledgement for so great an Instance, answered him with all the esteem that he could expect. The Chevalier who was owing to his Assistance for the  Sentiments of the Princess, expressed himself again to him in all the obliging things that could be said to a Friend to whom one is infinitely bound; And as his Passion made him protest that he would never more leave his lovely Mistress, the Princess Doria interrupted him, by letting him know, that for both their Interests his return to France was indispensable. She added, that, not to let him have any just occasion of being any longer disquieted, she would have him marry her Daughter-in-law before his departure, not doubting but that after the manner she designed to write to her Husband, she should easily gain his Consent, which was necessary thereto; but that for several Reasons which respected the one and the other, she judged it most proper, that this Marriage should be kept secret, and that they should not declare it till after that the Affairs of the Republic were come to some Conclusion with the King. It is very needless to say any thing of the Joy that the two Lovers received from a Proposition which would raise them to such a State that was the final Object of all their Wishes. The imagination of those who never had their hearts touched with Love, can't possibly penetrate far enough to conceive the extent of such a joy. The Princess Doria wrote to her Husband, and the Chevalier took upon him the care of dispatching a Courier to Genoa. His quick return showed that 'twas Love gave the Orders which were executed with so much diligence. He brought the Consent which they expected, and the two Lovers enjoyed the Pleasure of being at last united, after so many Obstacles with which their Passions had been crossed.  
FINIS.   

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