THE SERASQVIER BASSA: AN Historical NOVEL OF THE TIMES.  
Containing all that passed AT THE SIEGE of BUDA.  
Out of FRENCH.  
LONDON, Printed for Henry Rhodes, next Door to the Swan Tavern, near Brides-Lane in Fleetstreet.   

TO MADAM THE DAUPHINESS.  
MADAM,  
I Present you a Book, composed of a Mixture of real Facts and gallant Intrigues. It bears the Name of the Serasquier: In the mean time, this General is only the Hero of the Romance, My Lord Elector of Bavaria being the real Hero. The Glory he has acquired at the raising the Siege of Vienna, and the great Actions he did before Buda, in the frequent Sallies he opposed, and the several Combats, in which he repelled the Serasquier, show that he is animated with the Blood of the famous Emperor Rodulphus, one of your Ancestors, who so often made the Ottoman Empire tremble. I believed, Madam, you would be well pleased to read in repose the Particular of so worthy a Brother's glorious Actions, which have given you so many Alarms; and this only Reason obliged me to this Work, to assure you, that I am, with a most profound Respect,  
Madam, Your most Humble and most Obedient Servant.   

TO THE READER.  
HAVING given you The Grand Visier, and The Illustrious Genoveses, Two Novels, mixed with Incidents of the Times, which have been favourably received by every one, I present you with The Serasquier Bassa of the same Author, hoping you will be no less satisfied with it, than you were with his two first Works. This last contains nothing but what is grounded on faithful Memoirs, in respect of Zouglan's Fortune, and his Elevation to the Office of Serasquier. As to the Circumstances of the Siege of Buda, you will find them here such, as the exactest Relations have Published them.   

THE SERASQVIER BASSA: An Historical Novel OF THE TIMES.  
IT has ever been a Maxim with the Ottoman Emperors to Educate in the Seraglio a great Number of Young Persons, without any Distinction of Birth or Country. The Education, they receive, is so conformable to the Interests of the State; that all these Young Men, acknowledging no Kindred, propose to themselves no other aim, but the Empire's Grandeur, and the Sultan's Glory. At their going out of the Seraglio, they are usually put into the Troops with very small Pay, having neither Goods, Protection, nor any other Refuge, but the Hopes of Meriting Rewards by their Service. Those, that want Wit and Address to raise themselves, pass their Lives in a Condition, unhappy enough; whereas those, who have Merit, attain sometimes to the greatest Dignities of the State. It is certain, that the most considerable Officers of the Ottoman Empire, have had this Beginning; which is the Cause, that the Turks, who are in the first Stations, are ordinarily Men of Active Spirits, and full of Address, although for the most part of an insatiable Avarice, which obscures all their good Qualities.  
Zouglan, who is at this day so well known in Hungary by the Name of the Serasquier Bassa, was Educated in this Manner. He was Handsome, very Generous, and full of high Thoughts; but so Proud, that being yet in the Seraglio, he disdained the greatest part of his Comrades, which much contributed to the getting him Enemies. It very often happens, that these Young Men, uncertain of their future Lot, join themselves five or six together, making a kind of Union or Society, whereby they reciprocally engage themselves to a mutual Participation, of Estates and Fortunes, if they have one day the Happiness of being advanced: which promise is afterward performed with very much fidelity. Zouglan would never enter into any such Engagements with any one. Ibrahim was the only Person of his Comrades, whom he esteemed, and familiarly conversed with. He lived in so great a Confidence of his Fortune, that he many times promised Ibrahim to contribute to his Advancement, without troubling himself to require from him the same Condition. In fine Zouglan, at his going forth from the Seraglio, went to serve at Sea, where he gave Proofs of his Courage on many Occasions, meriting the Applause of his Generals; but foreseeing, he could at most arrive to be only Bey, or Captain of a Galley, because the great employs of the Sea were given only to very experienced Officers, so limited a Charge not being capable to satisfy his Ambition, he resolved to serve on Land, putting himself in the Army, the Grand Signior had on foot against Poland. He was not long there,  he acquired a great deal of Glory. His Name became Famous in the Ottoman Army, and they spoke of him in all the Frontier Places, as of an Adventurer, that knew no dangers.  
These happy Successes augmented his natural Haughtiness and also gave a jealousy to many Officers of the Army. Cabstan Bassa, who commanded the Cavalry, hindering one day his going forth of the Camp with an hundred Horse, he had chosen for a very bold Attempt; Zouglan shown himself not a little discontented at it, saying publicly, That he would complain to the Grand Visier of Cabstan Bassa's having made him lose a  Occasion to destroy the Enemies of the Port. Cabstan Bassa, informed of it, sent to seek him in his Tent, and after having spoken to him in very outrageous Terms, threatened to treat him very severely, if he ever happened to fail of the Respect he owed him. The fierce Zouglan, penetrated with Spite, and Choler, laid his Hand on his Sabre. The Bassa would have killed him on the Place, had he not been stayed by some other Officers, that were near him. Zouglan was Arrested, and the whole Army blamed his Action. The Bassa would not however have it brought before the Council of War, being contented with sending him Prisoner to the Castle of Temisoüar, of which Selim Aga was at that time Governor. He was a Man of Service, who had acquired a great Estate by the Favour of the Sultaness Valida, his Protectress. He had a great Authority in his Government, living more like a Bassa, than a particular Governor. He had only one fair Daughter, whom he loved with extreme Tenderness: She being born in Hungary, he bred her up after the manner of the Country, making her always eat with him, and not Subjecting her to the particular, and retired Life of the Turkish Women.  
Zouglan being arrived at the Castle of Temisoüar, Selim, who knew his Reputation, treated him with a great deal of Respect, and seeking to sweeten the Discontents, the loss of his Liberty might have caused in him, gave him a Chamber, commodious enough in the Castle, where he was so strictly Guarded, that none was permitted to see him. Selim trusted no body with him but himself, scarce suffering his Keaia or Intendent, tho' he were a Man, in whom he confided, to enter with him into his Prisoner's Chamber.  
Zaratima (this is the Name of Selim's Daughter) having often heard her Father speak of Zouglan's Courage, and the Gallant Actions he had done, was touched with his Disgrace, through a Sentiment, natural to Persons of her Sex, who always bemoan the Illustrious Unfortunate. His Prison not being far from her Apartment, this gave her an extreme Curiosity to see him: which the great Precautions, her Father used in Guarding him, hindered her many days from satisfying: But seeing in fine, that he remitted a little of this first Exactness, trusting his Keaia with the Care of his Prisoner, she Addressed herself to this Keaia, instantly desiring him to put her in some place, where she might see Zouglan without being seen by him. The Keaia, who had a great deal of Respect and Complacency for his Master's Daughter, and who foresaw not any Inconvenience in giving her this Satisfaction, promised her to do what she desired, and disposed a Corner in Zouglan's Antichamber, where he so placed Zaratima, that it was easy for her to see him, and attentively examine him, without the Prisoners having the lest Knowledge of it: She found him very Handsome, the Discontent, that appeared upon his Face, having been so far from any way diminishing his good Mien, that it gave him an Air of Fierceness, which was not displeasing to Zaratima. This view augmented the Compassion she already had for his Misfortune; and perhaps she was not far from passing to other Sentiments, when she reflected, That it was not fit for a Person of her Birth, whom her Father destined to so great Establishments, to concern herself so much with the Affairs of an Adventurer. She was ashamed of her Curiosity, and rejected even all her Compassion had hitherto inspired her with, in Favour of this unhapyy one,  
In the mean time Zouglan's Friends laboured soeffectually with Ca●st●●● Bassa, that he promised them in fine to show him Favour, on Condition he would ask him pardon in the Head of his Troops. Selim Aga took a pleasure in acquainting his Prisoner with this good News, exaggerating to him the Indulgence of Cabstan, who would not let this Affair come before the Council of War; but he was very much surprised at the haughty Answer of Zouglan, who declared to him, That he had rather die, than do so mean an Action in the presence of the Army. Selim represented to him, That he ought to take the Benefit of the Bassa's good Will, and submit to the Counsels of his Friends. His Remonstrances were to no purpose. Zouglan, persisting in his first Sentiments, answered, That he had not desired to live, but for the acquiring of Glory, and that he should think himself unworthy to bear the Name of a Soldier, should he ransom his Life, with the loss of his Honor. Assoon as Cabstan Bassa was informed of Zouglan's Resolution he made his Complaint to the Council of War, and soon after a Cadi was sent to Temisoüar, to interrogate the Prisoner; which made every one judge, he would be condemned to lose his Head. Selim spoke of it to his Officers with sorrow, not being able to forbear giving Encomiums to the Greatness of Zouglan's Soul.  
Zaratima hearing them daily Discourse of Zouglan's Affairs, that he could not escape losing his Life, had her first Sentiments awaked by this sorrowful News, and it was impossible for her, notwithstanding the Resolution she had made, to resist the Motions of Compassion, inspired to her by the sad Destiny of a Man, of whom there were such great Hopes, and who appeared worthy a better Fortune. At first she had a thought of giving him Means to escape by seizing with Address on the Keys of his Prison; but her natural Haughtiness, and the great distance, she faw between her Fortune, and the unhappy Condition of the Prisoner, made her reject this thought. She apprehended also, that Zouglan, who was already very presumptuous, might give another Interpretation to her Generosity, and dare to impute to more tender Sentiments, what was purely an Effect of her Compassion. These Reflections made her waver along time; but in fine vanquished by the recital, she heard of Zouglan's Noble Resolution, and touched with the Pleasure a Gallant Mind finds in doing a Generous Action, she determined to procure him his Liberty, and took such fit Measures, that she entered into his Chamber, without being perceived by any one, telling him, that, To save the Life of a Man of his Merit, she had been willing to do an Action, unsuitable to her Sex. Zouglan, who expected only an Executioner to Strangle him, was so agreeably surprised, both with the obliging Discourse, and charming Beauty of Zaratima, That he believed her at first to be one of those Angels, who watch over the Consecration of Men, and of whom Mahomet speaks in his Alcoran; but Zaratima pressing him to be gone, and not to lose his Time in useless Discourses, he told her, he would have an Eternal Acknowledgement of so particular a Favour, and that he would make Advantage of the Life, she gave him, only to employ it in her Service. Zaratima interrupted him, telling him, that she quitted him of his Acknowledgement, and giving him withal to understand, that she was Selim's Daughter, that she had no less Courage than he, and that she knew how to make use of it for supporting, as she ought, the Glory of her Birth, if she saw him pretend to any Advantage for the future, from what she had now done to save him: She would not so much as hear his Answer, but retired, after she had informed him, what he must necessarily do to secure himself.  
Zouglan, being in Confusion at the Obligations, he had to Zaratima, and having his Imagination filled with her extraordinary Beauty, repaired to Constantinople, where he found his old Comarade, Ibrahim, in favour with the Sultan, and possessed of one of the chiefest Offices of the Court. Ibrahim, who had heard of Zouglan's Gallant Actions, expressed a great deal of Joy to see him, receiving him with all the Testimonies of a sincere Amity. Zouglan informed him of his Adventure, and the manner of his Deliverance. Ibrahim made him hope, he would employ the Credit of his Friends to stifle this Affair, procuring him in the mean time a considerable employ in an Army, which the Grand Signior sent against the Morlaques, who had refused to pay him the ordinary Tribute, and also made Inroads into the Lands of the Turks. Zouglan, finding no real Satisfaction; but in seeking how to testify his Acknowledgement to the fair Person, that had saved his Life, had at first, no small Repugnance to accept an employ, which removed him from Temisoüar: Nevertheless, since he could not return into Hungary, without exposing himself to the revenge of Cabstan Bassa, who was very powerful, he resolved to pass into Dalmatia, where he did such extraordinary Actions; that the Soldiers, wondering at the happy Success of his Valour, called him nothing but Cheitan, which signifies Devil. He, who commanded these Forces, being killed in an Ambush, which the Rebels laid for him. Zouglan Cheitan, by the Credit of his Friend, or favoured by his own Reputation, had order to command in Chief, and to finish this War withal the speed he could, because the Grand Signior had elsewhere occasion for his Troops. He accomplished this with so much Courage, and Conduct, that he re-established the revolted Province in its first Tranquillity, and brought to the Grand Signior, who was then at Adrianople, the Heads of those, who had occasioned all this Disorder.  
These happy Successes gained Zouglan a great Reputation, in which his Friend Ibrahim took as much Pleasure, as if himself had vanquished the Rebels. Zouglan alone was insensible of the Applause, that was given him on all sides, living perpetually in great Inquietude. He represented to himself every Moment his Obligation to Selim's Daughter, and the Remembrance of her Beauty augmented the Ardour and Impatience, he had to give her Marks of his Acknowledgement. He met about that time an Officer of the Army in Hungary, who told him, that Cabstan Bassa, unmeasurably incensed at his Escape, had turned all his Resentment against Selim Aga, whom he had got condemned to pay him a great Sum of Money, or to restore him his Prisoner; that he also had the Credit to dispossess him of his Government, till he had satisfied him. Zouglan was sensibly afflicted at the Infelicities, he had drawn upon Selim; which obliged him to inform himself more exactly of the particulars of this Affair. All, that the Officer had told him, was confirmed to him, and he learned farther, That Selim Aga had been a long time at the Port, soliciting his re-establishment, without being able to effect it; That he had brought his Daughter to the Sultaness Valida, at whose Feet he had cast himself, desiring her Protection; and that this Sultaness, charmed with the Beauty of Zaratima, would have her Father leave her with her, till his Affairs were finished. The Generous Zouglan, being inconsolable for his having made Selim lose the Government of Temisoüar, sought him hastily out, and delayed not to put himself again into his Hands, and make himself once more his Prisoner. Selim, tho' very much astonished at so extraordinary and bold an Action, failed not to make Advantage of it, and to demand Reparation for all the Calumnies, Cabstan had advanced against him. Zaratima, who, being with the Sultaness Valida, had confusedly learned, that Selim's Affairs were in the most  Disposition, he could desire, had at first an extreme Joy to know, that her Father was in Condition to justify his Innocency; but when she was informed of the Generous Proceeding of Zouglan, she had a secret Inquietude for him, blaming within her Soul his overgreat Generosity in an Occasion, where he hazarded no less than his Life. Ibrahim having acquainted the Grand Signior with this Affair, and with the great Actions, Zouglan had done against the Polanders, and the Rebellious Morlaques, the Sultan, who remembered to have heard him spoken of with Esteem, caused him to be set at Liberty, and having forbidden any farther mention of Cabstan's Affair, ordered Selim to be re-establishld in the Government of Temisoüar. But the Sultaness Valida, who was much pleased with Zaratima, seeing that her Father retired in the depth of Winter, would not consent, she should return into Hungary; but promised Selim to send her back to him in a Season, less incommodious for the making of long Voyages. Zouglan's Affair made a great deal of noise at the Port, which failed not to be very Glorious to him, as occasioning every one to learn the Particulars of his worthy Actions.  
The Sultaness Valida, who was full of Wit and Address, had still kept a great share in the Government. As her Authority was very great, so she wholly employed it in procuring all manner of Advantages to her second Son Soliman, for whom she had an incredible Tenderness. She had caused him to be educated with extraordinary Care, and had often stood in need of all her Skill, to avoid this Prince's giving Jealousy to the Emperor Mahomet, his Brother, who would on many Occasions have Sacrificed him to his own security, and particularly when Sultan Mustapha his Son was born; but the Sultaness Valida had always the Dexterity to hinder it, and knew so well to manage the Sultan's Spirit, that he determined in fine, through his Mother's Importunities, to settle a Revenue upon Soliman, and consented also, that he should retire to Bursa, which is a strong Place; that was given him with all its Dependences. The Sultaness Valida, having provided for the security of her Son Soliman, took every day new Precautions to preserve him from the Snares, that might be laid for him. She gave him for his Guard five Thousand of the bravest Janissaries of the Empire, and spared neither Care nor Cost, to fix in his Service a great number of Experienced, Valiant, and Courageous Officers. As she lost not any opportunity of giving this dear Son faithful Servants, the Merit of Zouglan, and what she daily learned to his Advantage, bred in her a desire of engaging him in the Service of Soliman.  
Tho it appears by all the Relations we have seen of the Seraglio, that the Sultaness' Apartment is inaccessible to Men, Valida, who being a Woman of great Abilities, had for a long time governed the Empire, during the Minority of her Son Mahomet, now reigning, had acquired an Authority, which no other Sultanesses had ever had; and whether she took no great Care to subject herself to the Custom, or that the Sultan, who is not over violently inclined to Ladies, was not so Jealous of his Seraglio, as his Predecessors had been, it is certain, that Valida admitted Men into her Apartment without any Obstacle. She sent also for Zouglan, to propose to him the taking Engagements with her, and fixing himself in the Service of her Son Soliman, whose Guard of Janissaries he should Command.  
This Princess spoke with so much Wit, and accompanied, whatever she said, with so agreeable an Air, that it was impossible to resist her when she attempted any thing. Zouglan, who knew, that Zaratima was with Valida, flattered himself, that the Relation, he should have to the Sultaness, might facilitate to him the means of seeing this fair Person, and perhaps of giving her some Mark of his Acknowledgement. At this view he promised Valida all she would require of him. The Sultaness assured him, that she would make him find so many Advantages, that he should never have Cause to repent the Attachment, he had for her; and as her Addresses were very great, and that she knew how to engage Men, by whatever might most sensibly touch them, she shown him a great number of fine Young Women, which were about her, giving him to understand, that she took a Pleasure in educating them to recompense those, who should serve her faithfully.  
All these Maids, who had heard Zouglan spoken of to Valida in very Advantageous Terms, testified a Joy in seeing a Man of so great a Reputation. Zaratima did not at first comprehend, that Zouglan Cheitan was the same Zouglan, whose life she had saved, and who had nevertheless so frankly put himself again into her Father's Hands. Judge the greatness of her Joy, when she came to know him. The Pleasure, she felt, was so much the more real, as that she imagined herself to have a great share in the glory he had gotten; she also from that very Moment took a particular Interest in his Person. Zouglan, who easily singled her out, had not the least Thought of casting his Eyes upon the Sultanesses other Maids, and letting Zaratima know by the Attention, with which he beheld her, that nothing could equal his Acknowledgement. He was about to unsay all he had promised Valida, and to tell her, that he could not enter into any manner of Engagement without the Participation of Zaratima, whose Right it was to dispose of a Life, he owed to her Generosity, but the Fear he had of displeasing this fair Person, hindered him, and he was obliged, by his Respect for Valida, to go forth at that very time, when his Eyes began to make Zaratima understand the Sentiments of his Heart.  
He failed not to inform Ibrahim, of the Conversation he had with the Sultaness; but durst not speak to him of Zaratima, nor of all the Secret Motions, he felt in favour of that charming Person. Ibrahim, who saw, that all the People, and even the Janissaries, bore a great Affection to Soliman, and who was very glad, if there should happen any Revolution, to have a powerful Protector with that Prince, was not sorry, that his Friend applied himself to his Service; but was so far from deturning him, that he gave him new Reasons to confirm him in his Resolution. Zouglan had nevertheless a great deal of difficulty to remove from Adrianople, because Zaratima dwelled there. In the mean time as he expected all things from Valida's Protection, he imagined, that Zaratima might be the Recompense of the Services he should do Soliman. This sole Thought so agreeably flattered his Love and his Hopes, that no longer delaying his Departure, he was in a short time after at Bursa.  
Bursa was heretofore the seat of the Bithynian Kings, and is at this day the Appennage of the Ottoman Princes, when they are so happy, as not to be Victims to the cruel Policy of the Turkish Emperors, who ordinarily cause their Brethren to be strangled, to take away from the People all Pretexts of Sedition and Revolt. Soliman, who had a great many Persons of Merit in his Service, led there a Life sufficiently pleasant. His Revenue, which was already very considerable, increased daily by the care Valida took to give him whatever she could handsomely lay up; and as his Place was one of the strongest in the Empire; he feared not being assaulted, since he was moreover assured both of the People's, and the Janissaries Affection. In the mean time, though he were in Condition to live at an height, suitable to his Quality, yet through the Counsel of his Mother, he was contented to live safe, and retired, not troubling himself with Pomp, but always avoiding, whatever might give a jealousy to his Brother, the Sultan. Soliman, who knew the Reputation of Zouglan, and was over and above particularly informed of his Merit by the Letters of Valida, received him with all the Testimonies of esteem he could expect from a great Prince. He also took a singular pleasure in hearing him discourse of Military matters, and several times obliged him to give him a particular Account of the Combats, in which he had been. Zouglan, loving only true Glory, and seeking to shun the Fault, into which false Bravoes ordinarily fall, spoke of all the Actions, he had seen, giving a thousand Commendations to those, that had accompanied him, and scarce ever saying any thing of himself; which if he were at any time constrained to do, he attributed to Fortune the happy Successes, that were due only to his Valour, and Courage. Soliman, who has a very delicate Wit, was so charmed with his Modesty, that it augmented the Esteem, and good Opinion, he already had of him, and engaged him to give him all the Satisfactions he could expect in a Court, so peaceable, and limited, as that.  
Zouglan had now been near six Months at Bursa, and was already seeking some Pretence to make a Journey to Adrianople, in hopes to see there the fair Zaratima, when he received a Letter from Ibrahim, by which he acquainted him, that he was become passionately amorous of a very fair Person; that he had used all endeavours to gain his Satisfaction, without being able to effect it; that he had just learned, how this same Person was returning to her Parents, and that she would pass by Bursa, or thereabouts; which obliged him to desire Zouglan to keep his Janissaries in readiness, that he might seize on her, and afterward send her back to him, the most secretly he could, to Adrionaple, assuring him, that he could never do him a more agreeable Service. Those, that know, how Cavalier-like the Turks Act with Ladies, will not wonder at Ibrahim's Proceeding, which is not extraordinary for a Turk. Zouglan, who was very glad to have an Occasion of doing his Friend a Pleasure, sent Janissaries into all Places, through which he judged Ibrahim's Mistress might pass; and two days after he was advertized, that she had been stopped within three Leagues of Bursa. Whether it were, that he might take all Measures necessary for the conducting her secretly, and without noise; or whether he was very desirous to see that fair Person, which had wounded his Friend's Heart, he went to the Place, where she was; but before he saw her, he disposed all things for her immediate departure, and gave order, she should have notice to be in readiness, not being willing to delay the Satisfaction, his Friend might receive by the return of what he loved. He entered some time after into her Chamber, where he found a Person in despair, that melted into Tears between the Arms of two Women, which served her. The Disorder in which she was, hindered him from observing her Countenance; but the disconsolate Lady cried out so loud at the sight of him, that Zouglan was surprised at it, and approached to view her a little nearer. The Lady saved him from the Labour; for advancing towards him with Precipitation, she called him Coward, Traitor, and Monster of Ingratitude. Zouglan knew his fair Zaratima, and was so seized with Sorrow, Joy, and a thousand other confused Motions, that he continued a long time in a maze, not having the power to speak one word to her. In fine being inconsolable for having given so much discontent to a Person, to whom he was indebted for his Life, he cast himself at her Feet, acknowledging, that he should Merit all the Reproaches she heaped upon him, were he guilty of any thing, but having had too much Complacency for a Friend. He endeavoured consequently to let her know, that, if he had been advertised of her Journey, he would not have failed being on the way to serve her, and receive her Orders, adding, That he was not capable of ever being deficient in his respect to her; and to let her see, that she alone possessed all his thoughts, he told her farther, That he had so much indifference for all other Persons in the World, that he would not go one step to enjoy the fairest Princess on the Earth. He presented her his Friend's Letter, beseeching her to look into it, to the end it might the better serve to justify what he told her. Zaratima, judging by Zouglan's Submissions, and the good opinion she already had of him, that he spoke sincerely to her, found herself less unhappy, than she thought, for Zouglan was overjoyed to see her Choler dissipated, and went a little after forth of her Chamber, that being alone with her Women, she might more easily recover out of the disorder, in which he left her. As soon as he was alone, he made a thousand Reflections upon his adventure, which appeared to him very singular. The remembrance, of what he owed to Ibrahim, put him at first in a great perplexity. It was difficult for him to resolve to fail him. His particular Interest, and the Sentiments, he had for the fair Zaratima, appeared to him of too feeble importance, to hinder him from doing his Friend the Service, he expected from his cares. But when he represented to himself, what he owed to Zaratima, and made reflection, That he should never have known this Friend, had she not given him the means by delivering him out of the danger he had been in, he no longer questioned the putting himself on her side, believing, he embraced it only through a pure motive of acknowledgement. The Pleasure he took in deceiving himself, making him shut his Eyes against the different motives, that shared in his Resolution, he revoked all the Orders, he had already given, and willing to draw some advantage from his Error, he magnificently treated Zaratima, causing her to be served, with what ever could be found most rare in Bythinia. He afterward desired her to give him leave to wait upon her to Temisoüar with a Guard of five hundred Janissaries, to secure her from all Attempts, her extraordinary Beauty might inspire into those, that should see her. Zaratima was so satisfied to see, that Zouglan gave not himself the Lie by any of his Actions, and that she was not deceived in the Advantageous Judgements, she had made of him, that she let him in fine understand, she perceived his Care, and that he might assure himself, she should always be disposed to render Justice to his Merit. Zouglan, who had never dared speak to her of his Love, acquainted her, that he had very passionate Sentiments for her from the first Moment, he saw her, making use of the strongest Expressions Love could furnish him with, to demonstrate to her, That his Life would be insupportable to him without the hopes he had to employ it for her Service. Zaratima, persuaded of his Love, and mollified by these last words, spoke to him in very obliging Terms. In the mean time she forbade him going along with her, refusing also the Guard, he offered her; but Zouglan was too much interested in her safety, to let her go without being well attended. The Prohibition, she had made him, was to no purpose. He caused her to be followed by thirty Janissaries, of whose Fidelity, and Valour he was assured, ordering them not to leave her, till she was near Temisoüar. Zaratima departed, very well satisfied with her Lovers Conduct, and so far from being displeased with his not having obeyed her, that the Care he had of making her be guarded, though against her Will, finished the convincing her of his Passion, and confirmed her in the  Sentiments, she already had for him: So true it is, That there are Occurrences, in which Indiscretion passes with Ladies for Merit. Zouglan in the mean time was not a little disquieted. The Letter, he had received from his Friend, obliged him to give him an Account of what he had done, and at the same time to set himself right in his Opinion; but not being able to resolve on the making use of any Artifice, to disguise the Truth to him, he chose rather not to write. Ibrahim some time after sent him word that he believed he had not received his Letter, since he made him no Answer about a matter, for which he relied on him, being throughly persuaded, that he wanted not good Will to serve him, when Occasion offered. Zouglan, without descending any farther into particulars, answered him. That he did him Justice in holding himself assured of the Zeal, he had for his Interests.  
About this time died the Sultaness Valida, which wrought a great Change in the Affairs of the Port. The Ministers, who feared her, had very great Respects for her, not daring to decide any thing in important Matters, without demanding her Advice. Kislar Agasi governed within the Seraglio, and stood very fair in the Grand Seignior's Opinion. Cara Mustapha, the Grand Visier, regulated all State Affairs. Ibrahim Caimacan had the Direction of the Finances, subordinate to the Grand Visier; and Soliman Aga, Master of the Horse, was the Privado of the Sultan's Pleasures, and kept a perfect Intelligence, with the other Ministers. However, as they all knew the Address of Valida, and were sensible, how great an Ascendant she had over the Grand Seignior's Spirit, when she would give herself the Trouble to cultivate it, they lived with great Circumspection towards her, and testified to her abundance of Attachment and Respect, always fearing, she would cause some Revolution in favour of her second Son Soliman; but after the Death of that Sultaness, they no longer kept Measures with this Prince. His Party became in a little time very weak; and as he had not any Relation with the Ministers, to advance his Creatures, the most part abandoned him to follow the Grand Visier. There was soon after a Discourse of War; and Cara Mustapha, who, during the Life of Valida, durst not stir from the Port, declared, That at the beginning of the Spring he would go into the Campaign at the Head of a powerful Army.  
Zouglan, who was accustomed to the Fatigues of War, and to lead a Tumultuous Life, very opposite to the Tranquillity, in which he was with Soliman, without hope of seeing his Mistress, and far from Opportunities of acquiring Glory, fell into a Languishment, which daily decayed his Health. His Generosity, and the Remembrance, of what he had promised Valida, obliged him to force his Temper, and to suffer all the Incommodities, which the Violence, he did himself, rendered inevitable to him; but the Rumours of War, which were spread about on every side, awaked his first Ardour, and gave him new Inquietudes. He represented to himself, that being engaged in the Service of Soliman, he could not abandon that Prince, without offending his Honour, and particularly, since it was every where said, That the vast Designs of Valida would come to nothing, and that this Reason had already made Soliman lose many of his Creatures. Zouglan was continually tormented with these Reflections, not being able to resolve either upon living any longer without the sight of his Mistress, or upon quitting the Service of Soliman. He was ashamed of the Idleness, he lived in at a time, when the whole Ottoman Empire was preparing for War. Zaratima continually came into his Mind, his Love reproached him with his Laziness, and he seemed to himself unworthy to Love so fair a Person, since he was able to live so long away from her. The greatness of his Courage, and the Attachment, he had for Soliman, combated these Sentiments, and he would perhaps have died without taking any Resolution, and overwhelmed with his Perplexities, if the Prince himself had not observed his Melancholy, which the Change of his Countenance rendered but too visible. This obliged him to ask the Cause of it. Zouglan was uncapable to make use of any Artifice. He could not therefore conceal from the Prince, how he felt himself of too stirring a Temper to accommode himself to a quiet Life, and that the Rumours of War, which were dispersed about, had made so strong an Impression on his Mind, that he was necessitated to call his Duty to Succour, and to remember himself of the inviolable Attachment, he had sworn to his Service, to be able to resist it. Soliman, who was persuaded of Zouglan's sincerity, and who could not disapprove of such Noble Sentiments, testified, That it would be very displeasant to him to lose him, but yet that he had rather consent to his Departure, than deprive the Ottoman Empire of a Man of his Merit, who was in Condition to do the Sultan important Services. Zouglan, touched with the Prince's Goodness, defended himself a long time from accepting the Permission he gave him to departed; but Soliman having let him know, that he was so far from not being content with it, that he would absolutely have him make use of the Occasion, which presented itself, Zouglan kissed the Hem of his Garment, assuring him, that he would be no less his in the Army, than at Bursa, since he regarded the Empire, as a good, which might one day appertain to him, and that he should believe he still served him, whilst he was labouring to extend the Limits of that same Empire, in which he had so great a share. Soliman was the first to hasten his departure, that he might go solicit Employs at the Port, before the Grand Visier had disposed of them, and to show the Satisfaction, he had in his Services, he made him considerable Presents.  
Zouglan, being arrived at Adrianople, gave an account to Ibrahim Caimacam, his Protector and Friend, of all, that had passed between him and Soliman, and in what manner he retired from that Prince; but always avoided speaking to him of Zaratima. He desired him afterwards to employ his Credit with the Grand Visier, to get him employed in the War, he designed against the Germans. This Minister, who already bragged of exterminating all the Christians, would himself alone have the whole Glory of that War, and therefore knowing Zouglan's Reputation, apprehended, that, if he should make use of his Service, the Public would attribute to him the good Success of the War. This Reason obliged him to reject the Caimacan's Proposition; but Ibrahim, who had abundance of Wit, penetrating the Cause of this Refusal, proposed a new to the Grand Visier, the employing of Zouglan upon the Frontiers of Persia. The Visier promised to satisfy him; but withal told him, That he could not send any Troops towards Asia, till he had first seen, whether those, he designed for Europe, were complete. The Caimacan was contented with this Answer, of which he advertized his Friend, who was mean while in great Impatience to see his Mistress. Judging therefore, that the Troops, which were levying in so great number through the whole extent of the Ottoman Empire, could not be ready of a long time, he resolved to take advantage of this Interval for the making a Journey to the place of Zaratima's abode. Having told the Caimacan, that he was going to divert himself in the Country, he repaired with great diligence to Temisoüar, to endeavour there the seeing of this fair Person. Tho' the Turks never quit the Turban, Love, which works many other Miracles, and the Difficulties Zouglan foresaw, he might meet with in seeing his Mistress, made him resolve to disguise himself like a Christian, and to put on a Peruke, and an Hat; and since it very often happens, that Christian Cavaliers, travelling into the Lands under the Grand Seignior's Obedience, carry, without being Merchants, many Curiosities, with which they furnish themselves in Europe, to make use of an Occasion, Zouglan made Provision of these sorts of Curiosities at Belgrade, particularly of Stones, set in work with singular Perfection. He gave so liberally to all those, who could facilitate the success of his Design, that he was without any difficulty introduced to Zaratima, under pretence of showing her his choicest Rareties. He took Care to disguise his Voice, feigning, That with much difficulty he understood the Turkish Language. All these Precautions so well deceived his fair Mistress, that she did not know him. She admired the Jewels, and thought only of choosing such, as she most fancied. Having set aside many pieces, that pleased her, she asked their price: The Stranger answered her, That he was not skilled in the Merchant's Trade. This Answer troubled Zaratima, who already feared his taking back the Jewels, she had chosen; but the counterfeit Christian told her, she might keep them, and that he would take others in Exchange, or whatever she pleased to give him. Zaratima, who had many old Pieces, of which she made no use, was glad to find a man of so Commodious a Commerce; but what more surprised her, was the Stranger's Easiness, who contented himself with an old Ruby, and some other Trifles, for many Jewels, she had taken, which were exactly fair. He offered also, if she thought good, to bring her on the morrow some other very curious things. Zaratima gave him leave to come again, telling him, he would oblige her in letting her see, whatever he had, that was curious. He retired, having had the Satisfaction to be some time with this amiable Person, and to get her to accept of some Presents, which her Scrupulosity would have caused her to refuse, had they been made her in any other way. Zaratima, though very well skilled in Jewels, disinherited nevertheless her own Judgement in this rencontre, wherefore she sent for a Jewess, that was versed in this sort of Traffic. The little, which the pretended Merchant had taken in Exchange, for what he left her, made her fear, he had cheated her, and that the Stones she had of him were false; but the Jewess assured her, they were right, and even of greater Value, than she thought for. All these Circumstances redoubled her amazement, and she was impatient to see this Man again, who set so little by things, that appeared to her of so great Price. Zouglan had too much love, to forget, what he had promised her. He came again on the morrow, and presented her with new Jewels. Zaratima, after she had for a Moment considered them, fixed her Eye with an entire Attention upon him, that brought them. She examined his Features, and his Voice, which he endeavoured to disguise, hindered her not from finding under an Habit, so little suitable to a Turk, what the day before she had been so far from seeking. It was difficult for her to resist the first Transports of Joy, which this agreeable surprise caused in her; but fearing, lest some Motion of Tenderness might escape from her in presence of her Women, she dexterously rid herself of those, that were about her, and then manifested to Zouglan the sensible Pleasure, she received from the obliging manner, he had found out of testifying to her his Love. They gave one another, a mutual Account of their Affairs, and Zouglan told Zaratima, he could not resolve on his departure to go and command the Troops on the side of Asia, without first taking leave of her Zaratima was greatly afflicted, that they were to be so remote one from the other, but he assured her, that after the Success of this Compaign, of which the Grand Visier, promised himself so great Advantages, he would demand some employ in Europe, protesting to her, that in what State soever his Fortune should be, he would seek only to merit her Esteem, and to do some Action, which might render him worthy of her. Zaratima conjured him, no more to expose himself to so many hazards, since he had already given Proofs enough of his Valour. Their Conversation was very tender: Zouglan gave her his Word to return to her, assoon as ever his Honour could permit it; and Zaratima, after she had assured him of making Vows incessantly for his speedy return, promised him, on her side, that nothing should be capable to diminish the Sentiments of Tenderness, of which she would have him rest secure. One of her Women coming back, hindered their proceeding, and they no longer spoke of any thing, but the Stones. Zaratima, who would not propose the giving him back the Present, he had made her with so much Address, presented him with a Bracelet of her Hair. He received it with a great deal of Pleasure, pretending in presence of his Mistress' Women, that such Works were very rare in his Country. Tho the time pressed him, he having none to lose, that he might arrive at Adrianople before the departure of the Troops; yet was it impossible for him to resolve upon removing from Zaratima, without making her a third Visit. They gave one another reciprocal Assurances of ever continuing in a mutual Love, affirming, they should never have happy Moment's, whilst distance of places deprived them of the Joy of seeing each other; but Zaratima who was very tender, foreseeing, that her Tears might betray her in the presence of her Women, left Zouglan, without having the Power to bid him adieu, and being privately withdrawn, she caused him a moment after to be advertized, that he should take back his Jewels. He departed on the morrow, hasting with extreme diligence to Adrianople, where he found Ibrahim in very great pain for him; because the Grand Visier, who had already made his Army March, would have him Assemble all the Militia, he could raise, and form a Camp of them, to Guard the Frontiers of the Empire, lying toward, Persia. Zouglan, after he had made his Acknowledgement to the Caimacan, put himself in Condition to execute the Grand Visier's Orders, and having assembled the Militia, which he found in very great disorder, he joined them to a small Body of regulated Troops, that his Friend Ibrahim had caused to be given him. 'Twas time he should be on his March, since the Persians began to appear, persuaded, they might without fear ravage the Provinces of this Neighbourhood. He not only drove them from the Frontiers of the Empire, but entered also into their Country, hindered them from keeping the Field, and made himself Master of the Province of Serüan, which he abandoned, after he had taken Measures to render it tributary to the Sultan.  
Whilst Zouglan made War with so advantageous a Success, the Grand Visier, who was at the head of two hundred Thousand Men, threatened all Christendom, and had also besieged Vienna, which is the Metropolis of Austria, and the seat of the Germane Emperors. But as the having of numerous Troops is not enough to make one Succeed in his Enterprises, there being required also an Head, who has experience, Valour, and Conduct, the Grand Visier took his Measures so ill, or perhaps, to speak more justly, the Besieged defended themselves with so much Resolution, that they gave the Christian Army, though very weak, time to come to their Assistance, and to appear upon the Hills about Vienna. This so astonished the Grand Visier, that consulting only his own Fear, he shamefully raised the Siege. All the World knows, that, to retreat with the less danger, he abandoned his heaviest Baggage, and Sacrificed to the Christians Resentment five hundred Janissaries, that guarded the Trenches; which hindered not his being pursued by the Germans and Polonians, who pillaged, what Baggage was left him, defeated his Rear, and carried off a very great Number of Prisoners. Amidst the Vexation of so much ill Success the Visier forgot nothing, that might preserve him the good Will of the Sultan, his Master, with which he held himself assured to repair all he had left. In this Design he gave him account of all things with great Exactness, but in so dexterous a Manner, that he cast all the Infellicities of this Compaign upon the Bassa of Buda, and Count Tekely, whom he endeavoured to render suspected to the Grand Signior, by accusing him of Intelligence with the Christians. His Artifice succeeded to his Expectation. The Grand Signior testified, that he was very well satisfied with his Grand Visier's Conduct, and sent him also a great Standard with all the Marks of Esteem, and Acknowledgement, this Minister could have hoped for, had he taken Vienna. In the mean time the Christians gaining daily new Advantages over the Turks, and the Grand Visier not making any Motion to repel them, they began secretly to murmur against him at Adrianople: And Count Tekely, who was wont to receive great Subsidies from the Port, having about the Sultan Spies, which gave him notice of all, that passed, knowing, that he had been rendered suspicious to the Grand Signior, and that they spoke no more of sending him the usual Aids, forgot not to justify himself by Letters; but it was in Vain. His Letters did not undeceive the Ministers of the Port, who remained persuaded, that he held Correspondence with the Germans. Tekely, seeing no Medium between being ruined, or justified, took a Resolution extremely dangerous. He went himself incognito to the Port, and having found Means, by the Credit of the Kislar Agasi, who was his particular Friend, to have an Audience of the Grand Signior, before whom he prostrated himself with his Face to the Ground, he told him, that he brought him his Head, choosing rather to lose it, than to be exposed to the Calumnies of his Enemies, and the disfavor of his Lord and Protector. Tekely's Boldness was happily successful to him. The Sultan heard his Reasons, and judged by the Recital, he made him, that all the Misfortunes, arrived during the siege, aught to be imputed to the Grand Visier's ill Conduct. He permitted Tekely to return, assuring him of the Protection, he demanded, and engaging to send him such powerful Assistance, that he should soon be in Condition to repair with advantage all the losses, he had suffered. They began afresh to make Complaints against the Visier. Every one blamed him, and no body was any longer afraid to decry his Conduct, against which they murmured publicly. Kislar Agasi, who had a long time expected an opportunity to do the Grand Visier ill Offices, finding the Sultan favourably disposed to hear all, that was said against him, informed him of the Complaints, that were made openly, and having acquainted him with the particulars of the Advantages, the Christians had newly gained over the Ottoman Troops through the Visier's Sole negligence, he let him understand, it was to be feared, that the hatred, which not only the People, but the Janissaries also, bore this Minister, might give Occasion to a general revolt. The Sultan, who since his Conversation with Tekely, was already much prepossessed against Cara Mustapha, determined, though with difficulty enough, to sacrifice him to the public Vengeance, and dispatched two Agaes, who went to Belgrade, where he was, and cut off his Head.  
The Visier's Death gave a new Face to the Affairs of the Empire. The Grand Signior, who got sixteen Millions by it, refused to give consent, they should be employed in paying the Troops, and re-establishing the Affairs of Hungary, although the whole Divan was of that Opinion. He also obstinately persisted in not permitting his Treasure, which is the great Spring of the Ottoman Emperors, to be opened, answering those, who represented him the Necessity, there was of opening it, to remedy the Disorder, there was in Affairs, that they must make use of the ordinary Revenues; and if they were not sufficient to resettle all things, it was for his Council to find other Funds, to supply the defect. The Sultan's Humour, and the difficulty, they foresaw, there would be in bringing the Affairs of the Empire again into a good State, abated the Eagerness of those, that had Right of pretending to the Office of Grand Visier. The Kislar Agasi, who had always a great deal of Credit, and who imagined, though without any Ground; that the Grand Signior thought of putting him into this Post, declared before hand, that he would not accept this great Charge, well knowing, he had not Capacity enough to support the Burden, of it. Soliman Aga, Master of the Horse, who was the Grand Senior's true Favourite, judging, he should always be powerful enough, as long as he had his Master's Favour, told the Sultan, who offered to make him Grand Visier, that all his Ambition was to please him, and that he much more desired to be solely attached to his Person, than to share his Cares between the Prince, and the State, as he should be obliged to do, if he accepted the Charge, with which he would honour him. So obliging a Refusal augmented the Esteem, and Affection, the Grand Signior had for him, and determined him to name for Grand Visier, Ibrahim Aga, who before was Caimacan.  
In the mean time there came Advice, that the Christians, who daily made new Progresses in Hungary, had besieged Vicegrade. The decay of Affairs obliged the Grand Vister often to affemble the Divan, to resolve on the means of breaking the Effect of this Enterprise. Many Expedients were proposed; but the new Grand Visier was of Opinion to abandon the Frontiers of Hungary, and asserting, that his Predecessor Mustapha had unjustly declared War against the Germans, he concluded it much more reasonable to turn their Arms against the Polonians, who had without any Reason broken the Truce, which the redoubtable Port had granted them. The Sultan, who had promised Tekely, he would never abandon him, was of a contrary Sentiment to the Grand Visier; which hindered not this Minister from bringing other Reasons for to support his first Opinion. This was to resist the Sultan's Pleasure, which made him enter into so great a Fury against him, that he risen up with a Design to punish him. He pardoned him nevertheless at the Petition of his Favourite Soliman, and this Affair, gave Occasion to the report, which at that time ran through all Europe, that the new Grand Visier was strangled.  
There arrived at that time a Courier at Adrianople, by whom they understood, That the Germans had taken Vicegradt; that Cabstan Bassa, who advanced to relieve that Place, had been beaten by Prince Charles of Lorraine, and that in this dispute the Turks had lost eight hundred Janissaries, several Colours, and the greatest part of their Canon. They learned almost at the same time that the Prince of Lorraine, taking advantage of the Disorder, the Turks were in, had attacked Weitzen, a Place situated upon one of the Arms of the Danow, which form the Isle of St. Andrew, and that the Garrison, terrified by the Report of the Turks defeat, has made but a very weak Resistance, yielding upon Discretion, though it was composed of five hundred Janissaries, commanded by an Aga, who were all made Prisoners of War, and sent to Gran. This ill News augmented the Confusion of Affairs at the Port. But the Grand Signior, who continually looked with contempt on all, he learned of the Progress, the Christians made in Hungary, troubled himself neither at the loss of Weitzen, nor the defeat of his Troops; but went a Hunting on the side of the black Forest, with so much earnestness, that he passed several days without unclothing himself. The Grand Visier, who saw himself alone charged with the Conduct of the State, forbore not labouring with a great deal of Application, to prevent the Ruin, which seemed to threaten the Ottoman Empire. War, being the most important Affair of his Ministry, he who had no Design of removing from the Port, to put himself at the head of an Army, resolved to give this employ to Zouglan, whom he regarded as his other self, and whom he had already sent for to be near him; but well knowing, that the Generals of Armies often lose good Occasions, because they dare not hazard the Events of Affairs without particular Orders from the Prince, he desired, Zouglan, whose Fidelity and Valour were known to him, should have a general Power, which might set him above Governors, Bassa's, and Berglerbegs themselves. Now since among the Turks, the Grand Viziers alone are in Possession of this Despotic Authority, he expected the Grand Seignior's return, to get his consent to a Project, he was meditating in favour of his Friend.  
Whilst Zouglan, who was extremely impatient to pass again into Hungary, that he might see his Mistress, expected the Effect of the Grand Visier's good Will, Zaratima was in continual Alarms, and hastened by her Desires the happy time of his Return. Cabstan Bassa, who after the Death of Cara Mustapha had the General Command in Hungary, being informed of Selim's great Wealth, and of the Design, he had to give it his Daughter at her Marriage, resolved not to lose so  an opportunity of securing it to himself, with the Possession of a very fair Lady. In prospect of this he sought a Re-accommodation with Selim, after which he showed him all the signs of Consideration and Esteem he could desire, not taking any Resolution in matters of War, without demanding his Advice. Selim sensible of this General's kind Usage, and persuaded he would continue to Command in Hungary, offered, as a mark of his Acknowledgement, to give him his Daughter with all his Estate. Cabstan, glad of his having been prevented by Selim's Offers, embraced him with the Testimonies of a very strict Amity. From that time he always called him his Father, and they remained of accord, that the Bassa should espouse Zaratima, as soon as the Christians Army, which gave him a great deal of Disquiet, should have manifested their Design, either by their Retreat, or by their Sitting down before some one of the Places which were menaced. Selim informed his Daughter of the Honour the Bassa would do her, and of the Measures they had already taken together upon this Alliance. Zaratima, surprised and troubled at so precipitate an Engagement, conjured her Father not to press her Marriage; but to be pleased, she might continue some time longer with him. But Selim, attributing to his Daughter's Modesty, all the Reasons she gave him to oblige him to grant her the Delays, she desired, told her, without being touched with her Tears, That as soon as the Christians were retired, he would put her into the Bassa's Hands. This cruel Resolution sensibly afflicted Zaratima, who, though she were determined to expel all sorts of Extremities, even Death itself, if it were Necessary, rather than prove false to Zouglan, yet failed not to send him a Person in whom she confided, with order to put into his hands the following Billet.  
HAsten your Departure, if you still love me: my Father is resolved to deliver me to Cabstan Bassa, and though I can answer you for my Heart, I fear all from so Potent a Man, supported by the Authority of a Father: for, methinks, the Death, I should without delay give myself, to prevent his Violence, would be but a sad Comfort to you.  
The Grand Signior, who was on his return to Adrianople, learned at his arrival there, that the Germans daily made new Conquests upon him, and that there was so general a Dread amongst the Ottoman Troops, that upon the Report, which was spread abroad, of Prince Charles of Lorrain's having a Design to Besiege Pest, the Garrison had abandoned that Place, after they had set it on Fire, and were retired with diligence to to Buda.  
The Grand Visier, taking advantage of the Disorder of Affairs in Hungary for the advancement of his Friend, procured of the Grand Signior, in favour of Zouglan, the reviving the Office of Serasquier, which had been several years suppressed, being much like that of Constable in France. Zouglan was preparing to pass into Hungary, to Command there with so resplendent a Dignity, when he received Zaratima's Billet. He was ready to die with Grief, understanding, that his most cruel Enemy was going to deprive him of his Mistress at the time, when he found himself in Condition to demand her of her Father, without danger of being refused. Had he followed the Motions of his Love and of his Courage, he would have parted immediately to go to his dear Zaratima; but his new Dignity obliged him to manage himself, and to take other Measures before his Departure. Nevertheless, since he was not sensible of the Greatness of his Fortune, but through Relation to his Love, preferring his fair Mistress before all the Goods of the Earth, he resolved to put his Mind in repose, and obtained upon other Pretences, an Order from the Grand Visier for Arresting Cabstan Bassa, and causing him to be conducted to the Castle of Zighet. He afterwards finished the Regulation of his Affairs with all the speed he could, and parted soon after from Adrianople to repair to Belgrads.  
Whilst he was in his March, Prince Charles of Lorraine, who had a Design to Besiege Buda, caused a Bridge of Boats to be built over the Danow, in the place where that River is separated into two Arms, which form the Isle of St. Andrew. The Bridge being finished the Tenth of July, 1684. the Imperial Troops passed thither the same day in very good Order. The Turks, who had not been able to imagine, that the Christians durst attack Buda, charged very vigorously the Vanguard of the Imperial Army, persuaded, that it was only a Detachment; but they soon knew, they had to do with the whole Army; which obliged them to retire in disorder, and with the Loss of a great number of their Men, which were slain by the Imperialists Artillery. In the mean time the Count de Staremberg, Marshal General of the Camp, approached Buda, setting men to work on the Preparatives, necessary for the Siege. The Imperialists at first possessed themselves of the Fauxbourgs, maugre the great Fire, those of the Place made to hinder them. Three days after the Turks set the Lower Town on Fire, retiring themselves into the Upper, which is defended by a well-fortifyed Castle. The same day the Imperialists began to play their Canon, and made themselves Masters of the first Ditch, and of Mount St. Gerard, which commands the Town. On the Twenty second the Turks made a vigorous Sally, in which they lost a great many Men, and killed Four hundred of the Imperialists. Prince Charles of Lorraine, having learned at that time that the Turks were assembling the Body of an Army about Hanschabec, leaving Count Staremberg Foot and Horse, necessary to continue the Siege, marched all the Night with the rest of the Horse, and a thousand Foot. He came by break of day within half a League of the Turks Camp, in a place, whence he might plainly discover them. He judged them to be about Twenty thousand Men, and saw them make Motions, which caused him to believe they had advice of his March. They would have fallen on the Imperialists Flank, but they found every where a great Resistance, and Prince Charles of Lorraine charged them so home, and with so much Success, that the Turks were obliged to make a furious Retreat. The Imperialists killed them above Four thousand Men upon the place, wounded a great number, and took many Prisoners. The Turks lost also all their Baggage, and their Canon. Prince Charles of Lorraine returned again before Buda, and having acquainted the Besieged with the Advantages he had gained over the Turks, summoned them to yield; but they testified by their Answer, That they were resolved to defend themselves to the utmost extremity.  
Zouglan, who already knew of the Siege of Buda, was at his arrival at Belgrade informed of the Turks Defeat, and of the great Consternation all their Troops were in. He applied himself with extraordinary care to give order for all things; and the sole Hope of speedily seeing his Mistress, comforted him for the ill Condition, in which he found all the Affairs of Hungary. He was already preparing himself to go to her, whilst the Troops, he destined for the Relief of Buda, were drawing together, when he learned, that Cara Mahomet, Bassa of Mesopotamia, who commanded in Buda, being sick at the time, he was advertized that the Christians thought to attack him, had sent order to Selim, Disdar or Governor of Temisovar, of whose Valour and Experience he was satisfied, to come and assist him with his Counsels, and Command in the Place, if his Sickness continued; and that the Disdar, to answer the Bassa's Confidence, and show him that he feared not the Christians was gone to join him, having taken with him whatever he had most precious, and also his Daughter Zaratima, judging, she would be in greater Security with him, than any where else. This News was not a little displeasing to the Serasquier, who saw his Hopes frustrated by it, and his Mistress exposed to all the Perils and Incommodities, that are suffered in a Besieged Town. This Reason augmented the Hatred, he already had for the Christians, and made him redouble his Cares speedily to relieve the Place. He wrote 〈…〉 Grand Visier, to acquaint 〈…〉 the State of Affairs, and to 〈…〉 him new Succours. He sent Couriers on all sides, to press the March of the Troops, he would assemble. He visited all the Places, to the end he might see, whether he could not draw out a Party from the Garrisons, without exposing them to be assaulted, and distributed also store of Money, to make Recruits. His great Reputation, his Liberalities, and the Confidence, that appeared in all his Actions, greatly contributed to raise the fallen Courage of the Ottoman Troops. In the mean time, though he were a Man of very great Merit, the Newness of his Office of Serasquier, failed not to impose upon the People, who were so prepossessed in his favour, that they spoke of him as the Restorer of the Empire's Affairs, even before he had attempted any thing. Being arrived at Zighet, he went to visit Cabstan Bassa in his Prison, and having asked him, whether he knew him, the Bassa, who was already informed of his Advancement, and persuaded he would cause him to be Strangled, answered him fiercely, That he must not expect to see him guilty of so much Mean-spiritedness, as to ask him a Life, he well knew, he had resolved to deprive him of, as himself would not have failed to treat him in the same manner, had he not escaped from him at Temisovar; but that Fortune having disposed it otherwise, it was reasonable he should be punished, since he was the most unfortunate. The Serasquier, surprised at so haughty an Answer, and so beseeming a Man of War, gave him his hand, and told him, That the only Revenge he would take of him, was to desire his Amity, and to give him the Command of an Army, for to put a great Convoy into Caminiec, and to oppose the Attempts the Polonians might make upon that Place. He would not so much as require of him any Condition, as to oblige him to think no more of Zaratima, being throughly persuaded, that his Love and his Fortune would cause him to be preferred before his Rivals. Cabstan, confounded at the Serasquier's Generosity, kissed the Hem of his Garment, assuring him; he should have an eternal Acknowledgement of the Favour he did him.  
The Serasquier, being departed from Zighet to go to Alba Regalis, learned by the way that he must no longer expect to receive any Succour from the Bassa of Possega: because Count Lesly at the Head of an Army, he had raised in Croatia, had besieged the Fortress of Wierovitza, the taking of which facilitated that of the Bridge of Esseck: which had obliged the Bassa of Possega, who knew of what Importance the conservation of that Fortress was to them, to draw together all the Troops that were in the neighbouring Places, and to endeavour the Relief of Wierevitza; but that the Imperialists had repelled him, and constrained him to retire, after he had lost the greatest part of his Troops: which had so much intimidated the Garrison of Wierovitza, that they had Surrendered on the single Summons of the Christian General. The Serasquier was sensibly afflicted at this ill News. He learned others at his arrival at Alba Regalis, which comforted him for the loss of Wierovitza: for he had advice, That Cara Mahomet Bassa, who commanded in Buda, was perfectly recovered, since the Christians had besieged his Place; That he wanted neither Victuals, nor Ammunitions; That he had Seven thousand Men of the old Troops, not counting the Inhabitants and Jews, who did almost as much Service as the Soldiers; and in fine, that he made vigorous Sallies, which much incommoded the Besiegers. These Advices made the Serasquier judge, he should have time to get together Troops, sufficient to relieve the Place; but when he made reflection on the Inquietudes of his Mistress, who was in a besieged Town, and had not of a very long time heard from him, he was ashamed, he had so long delayed to let her know his Arrival, and determined immediately to write her the following Billet.  
I Was come to be near you, with a Design of never parting from you. I learned at my arrival, you were at Buda with your Father, and that the Christians had besieged that Place. I will never pardon them the sensible discontent, they have given me, in depriving me of the Pleasure to see you, to speak to you of my Love, and to give you account of all, I have suffered, being away from you. I hope to punish these Infidels, and to make them experiment, what a man can do, who at the same time serves his Prince, and defends what he loves. I also flatter myself, that your Father will put some difference between Cabstan and me, and that he will not find me altogether unworthy of you.  
He would not send her word of his new Dignity of Serasquier, either through Modesty, or perhaps to surprise her more agreeably, when he should see her. He forbade also a dextrous Renegado, who was got out of Buda, and who undertook to return thither, to tell Zaratima that it was the Serasquier, who gave him that Billet. His Love hindered him not from making use of this Occasion to exhort Cara Mahomet to a sedulous Performance of his Devoir, telling him, that he had already given an account to the Grand Visier of the Resolution, he testified to make a good Defence of his Place; that he could assure him, he should soon be relieved; but that he prayed him to remember, that, if the Christians should succeed in their pernicious Enterprises, the Mosques of the great Alas most intimate Friend would be profaned by his most inveterate Enemies, and that the important Place of Buda, where the Ottoman Emperors had formerly made their Residence, would no longer be inhabited but by Infidels. He added farther, That well knowing, he writ to a Man, who to a great Valour joined no less Wit and Penetration, he forbore to mention many other Reasons, which should oblige him rather to Die, than Surrender the Place: since it was to be feared, the Grand Signior, being inconsolable for such a Loss, would Sacrifice to his just Resentment him, that should prefer an infamous Life to the Glory he might acquire by finishing his Days in the Bed of Honor. These two Letters, which were punctually delivered, had all the Effect, the Serasquier could desire. Zaratima, who was in cruel Inquietudes for having no News of Zouglan, and equally feared the good or bad Success of the Siege, persuaded, that her Father would deliver her to Cabstan Bassa, as soon as the Christians were retired, or the Place should have capitulated, received with all the Joy imaginable her Lover's Letter. She bid the Renegado, who brought it her, give her notice, when he should return to the Musulmens' Camp, and comforted herself for all the Discontents, the Absence of Zouglan had caused her, by the Pleasure, she had, in reading over his Letter a thousand times.  
Tho Cara Mahomet was resolved to defend his Place to the utmost Extremity, the Serasquier's Letter made so much Impression on his Mind, that Prince Charles of Lorraine sending him the next day an Officer to Summon him to yield, and to inform him of the Turks Defeat, and the taking of Wierovitza by Count Lesly, he answered fiercely, That he pretended to revenge upon the Christians, that were before Buda, the Losses, those of his Party had received at Vicegrade, Pest, and other Places, of which the Christians had lately seized. He declared at the same time, That he would not accept any Quarter for himself, or his Garrison, being resolved not to give any to the Christians which should fall into his hands: and to the end he might persuade him by Effects of the Truth, of what he said, he caused Forty Germane Prisoners to be brought upon the Ramparts, and their Heads to be cut off in presence of the Officer, telling him, he wished it were in his power to do as much to all the Christian Army. The same day, after the Officer was gone back, the Besieged made a vigorous Sally, and would have cleansed the Trenches, and filled up the Works, had not Prince Charles of Lorraine run thither himself, accompanied with several Volunteers, and obliged them to retreat, after a very obstinate Fight, and very Bloody for both Parties. The Count d' Harrach, the Count de Nassaw, the Count de Furstemberg, and many other Volunteers were Killed upon this occasion. The Turks lost there above Three hundred Men: which hindered them not from continuing to make such frequent Sallies, that the Imperialists were obliged to have always a double Guard in the Trenches, to repel them. They had advice about this time, that Cara Mahomet Bassa was Killed by a Canon Shot; but Selim Aga, Father to Zaratima, who succeed him, testified no less Resolution of holding out, than his Predecessor had done. He assured the Garrison, That the Serasquier was taking care to relieve them; and to show that he did not fear the Germans, nor would keep any Measure with them, he cut off the Heads of all the Prisoners, which had the unhappiness to fall into his Hands.  
In the mean time the Serasquier received Letters from the Grand Visier, who fent him word, he could not possibly give him the Succour he demanded, because he had been obliged to send all the good Troops he had left to the Dardanelles, to Tenedos, and the Isle of Chio, to hinder the Descent of the Venetian Forces, which had already taken St. Maure. He conjured him in suit to supply all things by his Vigilance, and Industry, and to hazard all, rather than let Buda be lost. The Serasquier assembled his Troops about Alba Regalis, and prepared to put Relief into the Place, persuaded, that the Christian Army, which was very much weakened by the length of the Siege, and the frequent Sallies of the Besieged, would not be in condition to hinder him; but the Elector of Bavaria's Arrival at the Christian Camp raised the Courage and Hopes of the Imperialists. This Prince, having Landed his Forces, caused them to march in Battalia on a Line, which made a great Front that they might appear more numerous to the Besieged. He visited afterwards all the Works, and chose the Place, that appeared to him most proper for the making an Attack, which he began the same day by his Troops. They carried it on so far by the Care and Example of this young Prince, that they were obliged to stay, till that of the Imperialists was sufficiently advanced, to the end they might make Lines of Communication between the two Attacks. But during all this Interval, their Courage remained not unexercised: for the Tricks, wondering to see an Attack so forward, made such vigorous Sallies upon them, that they would infallibly have been driven from their Post, had not the Prince supported them by his firmness, and his Orders for the advancing of other Troops, which were in better condition to fight. Selim, perceiving that the Elector of Bavaria's Arrival, and the Vigour his Forces showed in their Attack, had disquieted the Garrison, and that the Janissaries began to draw together, and speak of Surrendering the Place, had the Address to persuade them, That he had new Assurances, they should be relieved within three Days; and to the end he might take out of their Minds those flattering Hopes of Capitulation, which the Soldiers promised themselves after a long Siege, he bethought himself of telling them, he knew from good hands, That the Christians in prejudice of the Articles they had granted the Garrison of Wierovitza, had pillaged all their Baggage, and afterwards put them all to the Sword; that the same Lot attended them, since they had to do with the same Enemies; and that it was for them to choose, whether they would live by giving the Serasquier time to relieve them, or perish by delivering themselves to the Perfidious Christians. This Artifice, though it had no other Ground, but the Falsehood of five or six Croats, who pillaged and ill entreated some Turks, that were strayed in a Wood, failed not to prove advantageous to Selim. All the Garrison engaged by new Oaths to defend themselves to the utmost Extremity, and consented, That the first, who should speak of Capitulating, should be immediately Strangled.  
Prince Charles of Lorraine, having notice that the Serasquier was drawing together an Army of Fifty thousand Men for the Relief of Buda, caused Retrenchments to be made along the Lines, to the end he might hinder them from being assaulted by the Turks, and gave all the Orders necessary for their good Reception, if they presented themselves.  
Whilst the Serasquier was making an end to assemble his Troops, he understood, That Selim, who commanded in Buda, was slain; and that the Eldest Aga had taken the Command in his place. This News much discontented him, foreseeing that his Mistress would be afflicted at it, and fearing besides, lest the Loss of a Man of his Merit might diminish the Ardour of the Besieged. Scarce had he received this Advice, when the Renegado, who had already formerly brought him News from Buda, presented himself before him, and after he had confirmed the Death of Selim, gave him a Billet from Zaratima, which was written in these terms:  
MY Father's Death has sensibly afflicted me. I Fear also, lest Cabstan Bassa pretend to take advantage of the Consent, he had given him to Marry me. I find no Consolation, but in thinking, your Love will furnish you with Means to preserve me from his Violence. In the mean time I counsel you to secure yourself of the famous Serasquier 's Protection: for if he has all the good Qualities they tell us of here, he will not suffer Cabstan to hinder me disposing of an Heart my Love has destined you.  
The Serasquier, having read this Billet with all imaginable Joy, made her the following Answer:  
SElim 's Death much troubled me, because of the Grief, I know, it has been to you. Quiet your Mind, and fear nothing from Cabstan Bassa. Assured of your Heart, all the Powers of the Earth cannot hinder my being happy. I am well enough with the Serasquier, to be able to answer you before hand, that he will with pleasure employ all the Authority his Office gives him, and his Life itself, if it be necessary, to execute all your Desires. He is resolved to use extraordinary Endeavours, to force the Christians Lines, relieve the Place, and raise the Siege. His Design cannot fail of Success: for methinks, it will be impossible to resist us, when we shall act to vanquish the Difficulties, that separate me from you.  
The Serasquier gave the Renegado Marks of Liberality, and promised him great Recompenses; if he could deliver this last Letter with the same Felicity he had done the precedent. He ordered him also to assure the Commander of Buda, he was upon his March, to approach the Place, and that he might reckon, he should be succoured on the Morrow, during all the Day. In Effect, his Impatience to see his Mistress, and his Fear, lest this new Governor might not defend himself with the same Resolution, his Predecessors had done, obliged him to make his Army march the same day. He had already sent many Parties to tyre the Besiegers, and to endeavour the cutting off their Foragers. In fine, on the Twenty second of September he drew near the Christians Camp about Break of day, and perceiving it was fortified with good Retrenchments, and that all the Army appeared in a Disposition to fight well, he detached several Squadrons, which advanced as far as the Circumvallation on the side of Count Maximilian de Staremberg. The Imperialists, who were in Battalia received them with much vigour; but they had only Skirmishes, which lasted long enough, and the Turks, who were advanced too forward, lost a great many more Men, than the Imperialists. In the mean time the Serasquier, who had viewed the Camp, whether he found new Difficulties in relieving the Place, or that he expected his Foot, which were not yet come up, thought fit to retreat, and took no Benefit of three Sallies of above Fifteen hundred Men, which the Besieged made on the side of the Imperialists Attack at the time he approached the Camp. They had at first some Advantage, advancing as far as one of the Batteries, which they overthrew in a little time; but the Elector of Bavaria, who lost no opportunity to give Marks of his Courage, running thither at the Head of several Volunteers, and three Squadrons of his Troops, repelled them with so much Valour, that they were obliged to Retreat, abandoning two Pieces of Canon, they had began to bring thither. The Turks lost above Three hundred Men on this occasion. The Germans loss would not have been so considerable, had not Count de Tilly, and other Persons of Quality been then slain. On the Twenty third the Serasquier attacked again the Christians Camp, at the Head of all his Horse, but was beaten back with much vigour, losing also two Standards. The Troops of Bavaria, who had supported the Turks Efforts for many hours, were scarce entered into their Lines, when they were charged by the Garrison, which made upon them a great Sally of Horse and Foot; but the Bavarians, animated by the Example of their brave Prince, who gave them his Orders himself with a Resolution above his Age, defended themselves a long time, and the Imperialists coming to their Assistance, the Turks were in fine beaten back. On the Twenty fifth the Serasquier presented himself again before the Lines, and disposed his Troops in Battalia, making a show, as if he would fight. Whilst the Imperialists were preparing to resist him, he detached Four thousand Horse, which he made march along an Hill, to gain a Passage, which was not guarded, because the Imperialists judged it inaccessible. They with much difficulty possessed themselves of it, and fell afterward upon a Quarter of the Imperialists, which was guarded only by two Regiments of Horse, and two battalions of Foot. They charged them, before they had time to look about them. During this Disorder, the Serasquier, who aimed only to deceive the Imperialists Vigilancy, that he might get Relief into Buda, detached about Twelve hundred Foot, which, slipping along the Hill, got into the Place by favour of a Sally, the Besieged made at the same time. In the mean time Major General Dunewald ran to assist the Regiments, that were enveloped by the Turks. He hindered their being quite routed, and charged the Infidels so home, that he defeated them five Squadrons, Killing above Three hundred Men. The Serasquier, satisfied with having relieved the Place, would no longer expose his Troops, but retreated in very good order. On the Morrow the Elector of Bavaria and Prince Charles of Lorraine, who expected the Serasquier would not retire without Fight, marched forth to go attack him in his Camp; but the Serasquier, having advice of it, decamped about Midnight, and went to encamp so advantageously between Alba Regalis, and a great Marsh, that the Christians, judging it impossible to force him in so advantageous a Post, were obliged to return to their Camp. Tho the Besieged wanted many Necessaries, and particularly Forage, it is manifest, the Succour they received, failed not to comfort them, and to give them great Hopes, they being persuaded, That, since the Serasquier had put Troops into the Place, he would find a Means to get in abundantly all things, of which they might have need. They also flattered themselves, that the Christians would raise the Siege, without expecting the Serasquier should force them to it by giving them Battle.  
Zaratima, who had received her Lover's Billet, took a great share in the public Joy. Yet neither Zouglan's Letter, nor all, she heard in commendation of the Serasquier, who had the Reputation not to suffer any Injustice, could re-assure her. She thought her Lover flattered himself, and that his Passion gave him this great Confidence, she remarked in his Letters. Cabstan perpetually troubled her, and she feared the last day of the Siege would be the Beginning of her Misfortunes, prepossessed, that this Bassa would seize of all her Father's Estate, and of herself too, without her being able to hinder it, since her Father died in that Will. Zouglan appeared to her a weak Protector against a Bassa, so authorised. Her Love and her Fear made her see a thousand Dangers in the Assistance she might expect from her Lover: for she doubted not, but he had Resolution enough to kill Cabstan; but she foresaw, he would be immediately punished for it, and that she should still equally lose him. All these Reflections cruelly perplexed her, and she saw some Moment's, when she knew not, whether she ought to desire the raising of the Siege. In fine, after having a long time tormented herself, she found some Consolation in thinking, she might avoid Cabstan, by casting herself at the feet of the generous Serasquier, ask him his Protection, and informing him of the particular Reasons she had to prefer Zouglan before this Bassa. Animated with this Hope, she failed not to wish, the Siege were ended, and was already meditating upon all she should say to the Serasquier, that she might incline him to her Interest, when one of her Slaves acquainted her, That her House was guarded by Fifty Janissaries, and that the Aga, who commanded them, desired to speak with her. Her Fear, or rather her Love alarmed, made her presently judge, they were Cabstan Bassa's Emissaries, who would secure themselves of her Father's Succession, and perhaps of her Person; but the Aga, presenting himself before her, told her, He was of the number of those, that entered into the Place the day before, and that he had Orders from the Serasquier Bassa to continue near her Person with Fifty Janissaries, and to obey, whatever she would command him; and if through Misfortune the Place should be assaulted by the Christians, which was not probable, not to abandon her, but rather to be all cut in pieces, than to let her fall into their hands. Zaratima was extremely surprised at the Aga's Discourse, not being able to comprehend, through what Motive the Serasquier should so much concern himself for a Person, he had never seen. Having reasoned long within herself, to divine the cause of it, she imagined the Serasquier had perhaps heard something to her Advantage, and that he was without doubt of the same Humour with the greatest part of the Turks, who always begin to satisfy their Love, before they declare their Passion to the Person, that causes it. This Thought gave her a thousand Horrors, and engaged her to make Reflections on the unhappy Condition of the Turkish Women, who are rather their Husband's Slaves, than Companions. She was troubled at the Education her Father had taken so much Care to give her: since it served only to make her more severely feel the Infelicity of her State. She thought nevertheless, she should be the most happy Person of her Sex, if she might pass her Life with her Lover; and maugre all the Reasonings, she had made, she found a sensible Pleasure in reading over again Zouglan's Letter, judging also, that, if it were true, the Serasquier had a Merit proportioned to his Reputation, it was not impossible, he might be her Lover's particular Friend, and might seek to give him an essential Proof of it, by the Care he took of a Person, which was not indifferent to him.  
Whilst Zaratima was busied with such like Thoughts, the Elector of Bavaria, who was vexed that he could not fight the Serasquier, visited the Attack of his Troops, and finding it very much advanced, made them mount to the Assault. The Breach, which was not sufficient, obliged them to retreat, and expect, till a Mine, that was to be sprung, had made a greater. Tho the Christians Army began to want Victuals and Ammunition, and was extremely diminished by the frequent Combats, they had with the Turks, by the ordinary Fatigues of so long a Siege, and by the continual Sallies, they were forced to oppose; yet were they not rebutted. The Duke of Bavaria also declared, That he would not raise the Siege till the last Extremity, sending to his States for other Troops, for Munitions of War, and Mouth, and for , to keep the Soldiers from the Cold, which began to incommode them. A French Engenier, who had served in the King's Armies, being at that time arrived in the Imperialists Camp, gave them new Hopes, they being persuaded, that a Man, which had made War under a Monarch, who never undertook Siege without Success, might facilitate their taking of the Place. The Count Bielk, whom we have seen Ambassador from Swedeland in France, and who was a Volunteer in the Imperial Army, presented this Engenier to the Elector of Bavaria. This Prince, who neglected nothing, that might contribute to the taking of Buda, gave him Employ the same Day. He wrought to make a great Mine, of which the Effect would have been infallible, had it not been overflown by the running in of Water from the Town. The Turks, who from the Beginning of the Siege foresaw, that the Christians might take from them the Water of the Danow, digged a prodigious number of Pits, which were afterwards very serviceable to them: for the Elector of Bavaria, persuaded of his engineers Capacity, had already disposed his Troops, to go up to the Assault, assoon as this great Mine should be Sprung; but at the time, when they no longer doubted of Success, word was brought them, that many of these Pits were broken into the Miners Work, and had quite drowned it. This hindered not the Elector of Bavaria, whom all these Difficulties could not rebut, to give immediately new Orders for beginning a Mine on another side.  
In the mean time the Serasquier, having received a Reinforcement of Troops, and seeing, that the Besiegers Army daily decreased, appeared before the Christians Camp at the Head of a great Body of Horse. The Besieged made at the same time a vigorous Sally. Whilst a Part of the Imperial Army was busied in repelling it, and the Serasquier amused the Horse by Skirmishes, eight great Boats, laden with Men and Provisions, sent by the Bassa of Agria, passed the Danow above Pest. A Detachment of these Turks, having charged a a small number of Imperialists, who guarded the Redoubts, drove them away without much difficulty, because all the Troops were employed another way; which was the Cause, this Relief got easily into the Place. Nevertheless this hindered not the Imperialists, who expected great Effects from their Mines, to dispose all things for the giving a general Assault; but a Deserter of the Imperial Troops, being at that time got into Buda, discovered to the Besieged the Place where the Mines were, telling them also, That, if they had their Effect, it was impossible to avoid the Places being taken. This Advice gave no little Disquiet to the Turks, and obliged them to work with an extreme Diligence, to discover the Mines by opening the Earth in many different places, to meet with the Besiegers Works. Tho they had laboured a whole day to no purpose, yet did not this ill Success discourage them, They resolved on the contrary to hazard all, that they might hinder the Effect of these Mines, and having made a Sally with all the Troops they had left in a Condition to fight, they drove the Imperialists as far as the Batteries, after having Killed them above Two hundred Men. A great Number of Laborers, who were come out of the Place, got in the mean time to the Mouth of the Mines, and drew out the Powder. All the Imperial Army took Arms, to repel this great Sally. The Elector of Bavaria ran thither in Person, and animated all things by his Example. Many Squadrons were made to March. The Turks, who would give their Laborers time to draw out the Powder, made many Discharges, before they retreated. They lost a great many Men upon this occasion; but they reentered not into the Place, till after the Mines were emptied, and the Imperialists Works entirely ruined.  
Prince Charles of Lorraine; seeing, that the Army was very much weakened, that the Soldiers were discouraged by so long a Siege, that the Serasquier continued to tyre them out by such frequent Alarms, and that the Cold and continual Rains would quite destroy the Troops, called a Council of War, to deliberate upon the Resolutions, they ought to take in so contrary Conjunctures. Some of the General Officers were for a continuation of the Siege, as expecting yet a good Effect from a new Mine, the Troops of Bavaria had made; but the most part were of Opinion, That they ought to retreat in the best order they possibly could, to save the Remainder of the Army. The Elector of Bavaria, who harkened only to his Glory, made a great Difficulty of consenting to it. General Serini, who commanded this Prince's Troops, seeing, that the Imperialists were determined to retreat, represented to him, that he was not responsible for the the Success of the Siege of Buda, since it was not he that undertook it, who only went to assist the Imperial Troops, moved by the Zeal, he had for Religion; That he ought to be very well contented with the Actions, he had done in the frequent Sallies, his Troops had born, and in the several Combats, in which they had beaten back the Serasquier; That he might also assure himself, the whole World would do him Justice, not having had less Ardour to take Buda, than he had shown the year before to drive the Infidels from the Gates of Vienna; That, if the Success had not been equal, his Glory was not therefore less, since it is certain, That if the other Princes of Germany had imitated his Example, they might not only have taken Buda, and chased the Turks out of all the Places they held in Hungary, but have driven them also as far as Constantinople, and made the whole Ottoman Empire tremble; That after all, great Princes are often exposed to lose Forces, but that the Glory they have acquired, is immortal, and continues always with them, and that they find Means to raise other Armies in their States; That in fine, an Assault was no longer to be thought of, since they could not give it without exposing themselves to be all lost, nor avoid fight between two Fires, the Garrison, which had made good Retrenchments, being yet very strong, and the Serasquier always ready to charge the Christians, as soon as they should make any Motion to give a general Assault.  
The young Prince, maugre the Heat of his Courage, let himself be persuaded by such good Reasons. Orders were given for Transporting, by the means of a Bridge of Boats, Eight thousand Sick and Wounded, with the Artillery, and heavy Baggage into the Isle of St. Andrew. All the Army, about Thirty thousand strong, Decampt afterwards, and having passed the Danow, took their March by old Buda, for to go to Gran.  
The Serasquier, who held it for a Maxim, That one must make a Bridge of Gold for his Enemy, when they will retire, and who had an extreme Impatience to see his dear Zaratima, made not any Motion to charge the Imperialists in their Retreat, but entered into Buda, as soon as the Christians had passed the Dahow. He was received with Acclamations and Shouts of Joy, which for a very long time hindered him from being able to make himself heard. He gave a thousand Commendations to the Garrison and Inhabitants, and forgot nothing to persuade the Aga, who commanded, that he might expect all manner of Recompense for the great Service he had done the whole Ottoman Empire. He found every where good Retrenchments, which made him judge, that the Germans had ruined their Army, if they had given a general Assault, as they would have done. He got rid with all the speed, he possibly could, of the Aga, and other Officers, and feigning, he would honour the Memory of Selim, who had so well defended the Place, caused himself to be conducted to his Daughter Zaratima, who was preparing to go forth of her House, to cast herself at the Serasquier's Feet, and desire his Protection against Cabstan Bassa; but as soon as she faw Zouglan appear, the Presence of this dear Lover reassured her. She thought no longer of visiting the Serasquier; she had even a great deal of Difficulty to conceal the Transports of Joy she felt, and to keep up in presence of the Officers, that environed this General, the Personage, she represented, of a Daughter, afflicted for the Death of her Father. She was so busied with her Love, and found so much Pleasure in seeing her Lover after so many Alarms, and so long an Absence, that she perceived not the Respects, every one gave Zouglan, who having an Infinity of Orders to give, was obliged to quit his Mistress, and to delay till another time the giving her account of his Elevation to the Office of Serasquier, and of all other things, that had befallen him, since he saw her. Zaratima let him go out, persuaded she should soon see him again. She began to relish without constraint the Joy, this agreeable Interview had caused in her, when a Letter was brought her from Cabstan Bassa, who writ to her, That not doubting, but she was in the Resolution to execute Selim's last Will, he sent her a Man, in whom he confided, who should take care of all her Affairs, and should Conduct her to Temisovar, where he promised to meet her, as soon as the Campaign was over. Zaratima, who always foresaw, that Cabstan Bassa would give her some Trouble, would not see the Man, he sent her, determining to follow her first Thought, and secure herself of the Serasquier's Protection, to deliver herself by this General's Authority from the Bassa's Pursuits. In the mean time it being already late, and all being yet in Confusion in the Town, she delayed her Visit till the Morning, pleasing herself beforehand with imagining, she should by this Step show her Lover the strong Passion she had for him. Tho she reckoned much on the Serasquier's Generosity, she ceased not to take care of her Adornment, persuaded that fair Persons have great Advantages to obtain what they desire. There was already a great number of Officers and considerable Persons with the Serasquier, when Zaratima arrived there, attended by many of her Slaves. The Serasquier, advertized, that Selim's Daughter desired to speak with him, found himself at first very much embarrassed. He went forth nevertheless to receive her, accompanied by a Crowd of Officers, who gave him great Respects. Zaratima, seeing Zouglan come to meet her, was no less perplexed than he, foreseeing, her Modesty would have much to suffer, if she must speak to the Serasquier in presence of her Lover. She told him, she had newly received a Letter from Cabstan Bassa, which extremely troubled her, and that to shelter herself from his Violence, she was determined to desire the Protection of the generous Serasquier. Zouglan answered her, smiling, that she might be assured, the Serasquier would give her a  Audience. Zaratima, observing, that the Guards were at their Arms, and that every one was in a profound respect, looked about for the Serasquier, and saw only her Lover, who acted as Master, and desired her to go into another Chamber, where he told her, she might see the Serasquier. Zaratima being entered, every one retired, except one of her Slaves, who continued with her. Then Zouglan, penetrated with Love and Joy, asked Pardon of his Mistress, that he had no sooner informed her of his Exaltation, telling her, That himself was the Serasquier, and that he was obliged to her alone for this great Fortune, since he had always believed himself unworthy of her, whilst he should have only ordinary Employs, which are daily given to other Bassa's, and that the Violence of his Passion had made him attempt all, that he might come to be Serasquier, and merit by it her Esteem and Love. Zaratima, astonished, and ravished at such furprizing News, wept for joy, assuring him nevertheless, that, Tho he should be Master of all the Crowns in the Universe, it could add nothing to the Tenderness she had for Zouglan. The Serasquier, touched with so obliging an Answer, promised her, Time should never change the respectuous Sentiments he had for her, and that he would regard her all his life, as his Divinity, and Liberatress. They said a thousand tender and passionate things to each other. Afterwards the Serasquier proposed to her the going out of Buda, where she saw only funest Objects, and offered to accompany her to Alba Regalis, where they might celebrate the Ceremony of their Marriage with all sort of Magnificence. Zaratima consented to it with Joy, and retired to dispose herself for her Departure the day following.  
The Serasquier, having given the necessary Orders for re-establishing the Fortifications of Buda, accompanied Zaratima to Alba Regalis, declaring publicly, That he prepared to Marry her. Cabstan Bassa, who loved Zaratima, only in consideration of her Father's great Wealth, thought no more of her, as soon as he understood he had so redoubtable a Rival; but the Serasquier, who had always before his Eyes the great Obligations he had to the Grand Visier Ibrahim, remembering, that this Visier, loved Zaratima, and that he had heretofore written to him to Bursa, to make him the Confident of his Passion, and desire him to seize this fair Person, made a scruple of Marrying her, believing he could not do it without betraying his Friend, and rendering himself unworthy his Amity. This cruel Reflection cast him into Irresolutions, which gave him great Inquietudes. His Love pressed him to satisfy himself, and to hearken to nothing, since it was in his own power to be happy, and to give Marks of his Tenderness and Acknowledgement to the fair Zaratima, who had saved his Life, and loved him with so much Passion; but when he represented to himself, that the Grand Visier might think, his Letter had given him occasion to see Zaratima, to become amorous of her, and consequently to Marry her, without remembering his Friend's Interest, and that he might perhaps one day reproach him with his Perfidiousness, the sole thought of this imaginary Reproach struck an horror in him; and maugre the violence of his Passion, he determined, before he Married Zaratima, to write to the Grand Visier, to acquaint him with the Obligations he had to Selim's Daughter, and to give him an exact account of his Love, and of all the Progress he had made in his Mistress' Mind, assuring him, That he loved her above his Life; and that he believed, he could not give a more essential Proof of the Attachment, he had for him, than the having delayed his Marriage, till he was assured, he might do it without fear of exposing himself to sose the Esteem of so perfect a Friend. He sent a Courier to the Port with this Letter, promising to reward him liberally, if he returned within a very short time he set him. Tho Zaratima was very well satisfied with the Cares of her Lover, and with the Honours every one paid her, since he had declared his Design to Marry her; she could not comprehend why he delayed the Ceremony, and what Reason he had to speak no more to her of it. Her Modesty made her support her Discontent, during five or six Days, without showing any thing of it; but seeing, that the Serasquier still testified to her abundance of Love and Respect, and that nevertheless he spoke no more of Marriage, she entered into so great a Despair, that it was impossible for her to conceal it. The Serasquier, who in the Transports of his Love often repent the necessity he had imposed upon himself, to expect his Friend's Answer before he espoused Zaratima, avoided entering into any discourse with her about it, not daring to tell her the Reasons, which obliged him to delay his Marriage. There was stopped at this time upon the Danow an Austrian Lady, who was a very handsome Person, and of very great Quality, as she was going to see her Husband at Pest, where he lay Sick. She was conducted to Alba Regalis. The Serasquier, who has much Respect for Ladies, visited her, and gave her all the Marks of Consideration, she could desire in the State, in which she was. Zaratima, who perpetually tormented herself to penetrate the Reasons of her Lovers pretended Indifference, believed, that he loved her not, and imagined, he had perhaps some particular Attachment for the Germane Lady, who had the Reputation to be a very fine Woman. Zaratima was in these Perplexities, when the Serasquier, who found no true Pleasure, but in seeing his dear Mistress, came to her, and told her, That he had been so touched with the strong Passion, the Captive Lady testified for her Husband, that he had not been able to resolve any longer to deprive her of the Pleasure to see him, but had caused her to be conducted to Pest, without expecting her Ransom, which he was obliged to Pay for her to the Soldiers, that had stayed her. Zaratima, judging by this Discourse, that her Suspicions were unjust, had a fecret Shame of the disadvatageous Judgements, she had made of her Lover, and not being able to support any longer the thought of his Infidelity, acknowledged to him with blushing, That the small Earnestness, he had shown since their Arrival at Alba Regalis to finish their Marriage, had a little troubled her. The Serasquier, who never made use of any Artifice to disguise his veritable Sentiments, entirely imparted to her the Letter he had written to the Grand Visier, and the Reasons, he had to show this Deference to so faithful a Friend. You love me but with a very faint Passion, replied Zaratima in choler, since you could resolve to expect from the Grand Visier 's Generosity an Happiness, which depends only on yourself. Tears and Sighs hindered her going on. She retired into her Chamber, refusing to hear what her Lover said to appease her. As soon as she was alone, her Imagination, ingenious to torment her, represented to her the Serasquier, as an Ambitious Spirit, who sacrificed his Love to his Fortune, and who troubled not himself at displeasing his Mistress, for to have occasion to make his Court to the Grand Visier. She passed all the Night in cruel Inquietudes, and though there were Moment's, in which her Lover appeared to her less culpable, her Love could not relish any Reasons, which might serve to justify him, and she remained still very much offended at her Lover's Proceeding. The Serasquier, who was in no more Repose, than his Mistress, had an Answer from the Grand Visier much sooner, than he expected. This first Minister, who had just learned with all imaginable Joy, that the Imperialists had raised the Siege of Buda, sent the Serasquier word, he was much troubled, that he had for his Sake delayed his Felicity, and that in the Consideration he had of his Services, he not only consented he should Marry Zaratima, but offered also to send him the fairest Persons of his Seraglio, if he desired it. The Serasquier, who was extremely impatient to make his Peace with his dear Zaratima, went to her, as soon as he had received this Answer, and told her, wholly transported with Joy, That he was in fine at the height of his Wishes, since he saw no longer any thing that could hinder his Happiness. He presented her at the same time the Grand Visier's Letter, but she refused to see it, telling him, She had seriously reflected, on what she ought to her Father's Memory, and that she saw, according to all the Precepts of the Alcoran, she could not dispense with herself from executing his Last Will, and Marrying Cabstan Bassa. The Serasquier, surprised at so little expected an Answer, flattered himself nevertheless, that his Mistress acted only through a Motion of Choler, and that she spoke against her own Sentiments. He conjured her to Pardon him, and no more to remember any thing, but their Love. I am but too much possessed with it, replied Zaratima; since I am resolved, before I take any Party, to make a Journey to Mecha, to the end I may consult the Great Cheq, to know, whether I can with a safe Conscience Marry you. The Serasquier, frighted at a Resolution, so contrary to his Love, made use in vain of all his Eloquence, to deturn her from this Voyage, and was obliged through respect to retire, without being able to obtain any thing. He was ready to die for Grief, when he reflected, That he had lost all the Merit of a long and tender Passion through a Nicety, ill enough grounded; and without examining any farther, whether he had reason to write to the Grand Visier, he believed himself very culpable, because he had the Unhappiness to displease his dear Zaratima, to whom he had so great Obligations. He reproached himself a thousand times with his Ingratitude, and not seeing any Torment more cruel for him, than to live, without being loved by his Mistress, he returned to her with a Design to Punish himself, and die at her Feet, if she persisted in her first Resolution. Zaratima, observing the Discontent which appeared in her Lover's Face, repent, she had put him in despair. The Serasquier told her, He pretended no more to oppose her Will, since he well saw, that he merited the Infelicities, which oppressed him: he assured her also, that his Return to her was only to put himself to death before her eyes, and to sacrifice to her a Life, she had heretofore preserved. Zaratima, mollified by her Lover's Discourse, and by the Despair, which appeared in all his Actions, had not the power to see him any longer in so sorrowful a Condition, but let him understand, she was touched with his Repentance. The amorous Serasquier embraced her Knees with all the Transports of Joy imaginable, and conjured her with so much instance, no longer to delay his Happiness, that Zaratima permitted him in fine to dispose all things for their Marriage, which was celebrated a short time after with as much Magnificence, as if the Serasquier had espoused a Princess of the Ottoman Blood.  
FINIS.