THE LIFE AND DEATH OF MAJOR CLANCIE, The GRANDEST CHEAT OF THIS AGE.  
WHEREIN Is set forth many of his Villainous Projects (Real matter of Fact) both in England, Ireland, France, Spain and Italy; at last was Executed at Tyburn, the Reading of which will give the Reader great satisfaction.  
PUBLISHED by AUTHORITY.  
LONDON, Printed by D. Mallet, and are to be sold at his House in Half-Moon Court adjoining to Ludgate. 1680.   

MADAM,  
I Cannot but apprehend howgreat my Honour and Happiness would be, if by my Service I could incline your Ladyship to believe the real sense I have of the many favours you have so often, and so undeservedly placed upon me, nor have I other returns to make but my obedience. Truth is Madam, my obligations are such as cannot be concealed, which makes mechose rather to subject myself, to censure for impertinences than ingratitude, which I hope will induce your Ladyship to mitigate the rigour of what censure I may have justly deserved; and by your example stop the current of such tongues as might otherwise critically carpat every thing, they see though never so well intended. This is the sum of my Request, only that your Ladyship will assure yourself in the knowledge that I desire to be esteemed, Madam,  
Your Humble Servant. E. S.   

TO THE LADIES OF THE COURT.  
PArdon me Ladies that I did,  
Not right you as my Fancy bid;  
Nor in my well meant Lines infer  
Your Deuce in each particular.  
Wherein if I have erred by chance,  
Charge it upon my Ignorance:  
Whose harder Fate could never own,  
The Bliss of being better known.  
To your Perfections,  
So fall in Short  
Pray waste a Frown upon me for't.   

TO THE READER  
BEing ready to lay hold upon the first opportunity, I made use of this occasion, that by my Obedience I might Evidence some thing of Gratitude in my Nature to Her that so often and so largely contributed to my Preservation, when in my weakest and lowest condition of Health. 'Tis the Countess of Marlborough, who commanded me to undertake this Task, to whom it is Dedicated with all the Service I can be capable of; under whose Protection I hope it may find a kind Reseption, with some shelter from the Storm that may otherwise threaten it from the severe lash of the Censorious.  
You seldom meet with Books of any sort but some advantage may be had by reading them. Where you will find Virtue cherished, and Vice punished. I doubt you will find but little mention of the former in this discourse, his while Life being taken up in Studies to practise the contrary. Some have the art to put a good gloss upon an ill Cause. I am none of those, nor do I pretend to the Pen of a ready Writer, or any part of Eloquence, which you will find by the plainness of the Style; nor can I free it from a great many Errors that may justly deserve a Censure; which makes me entreat your favourable construction, both of it and me. That propose to myself no other advantage, but to obey my Lady: and present you this subject for divertion. If it please you I have my wish, if not, I can but be sorry; That what was so well intended, should have so ill success. It is impossible to please all: and therefore I content myself, if I am so Fortunate as to please any: whose favourable interpretation and good Opinion is desired by your Servant.  
E. S.   

THE LIFE and DEATH OF MAJOR CLANCIE.  

IN the time of the late disorders, by Commotions in Ireland, which some called Rebellion: when the Irish made choice of such of their Party to manage and Steer the Course of their affairs as they thought the fittest, and best amongst them for so great an undertaking; to whom they gave the Title of Supreme Council, whose Orders, Decrees, and Determinations were uncontrollably to be observed all Ireland over; under such Penalties, Forfeitures, and Punishments as they thought fit to inflict; according to the Nature of the offence or disobedience to such Laws, and orders as were Prescribed by this Supreme Council.  
Their Place of Residence was Kilkenney, where they were constantly visited, and Courted from abroad, particularly from Rome, by the Pope's Nuncio, from Spain by Don-Diego. D' L' Torris, and from France by Monsieur Monery; a Person so accomplished, and so obliging Civil that all men coveted his Company; insomuch that there seldom was a meeting or Design of Merriment intended, or Contrived by any Person of Quality there, but Mounsieur Monery must be one, who as often returned their kindness in their own way.  
It happened that to one of his Feasts or Grand Balls, there came a Gentleman out of the County of Clare, invited to that Feast, by the Master of i●; this Gentleman had amongst the rest of his Attendants, a very fine lively Boy, that waited on him as his Page, whose Carriage and great Diligence in his Office of Page-ship, Monsieur Monery took great notice of, and was very much taken with: which the Gentleman perceiving was very willing to Oblige; and the other conceiving it a greater preferment of the Boy, bestowed him as a great Present to the Monsieur, who received him so: and having with a great deal of Language, expressed his thanks, desired to know the Boys Name: he told him his Name was Dennis Clancie; the Monsieur immediately altered the Boys Habit, and gave him all the testimonies of a kind Reception; with which, the Boy was so transported, that he studied nothing more than to please his Master, by being ready at his Call or Beck: never out of the way to wait the Service or Command of his Master: and continued so (not only during his Master's stay in Ireland) but for some years after his coming into France, where the Boy had all convenient opportunities for his Education could be wished for, which he neglected not; but made so good use of his time, that he improved it to the full, by acquiring the French Tongue perfectly, and all that he could gather both from his Latin and Dancing Master, or what else the Academy could afford: which took so with the Monsieur, that he could not conceal from his Friends and acquaintance how precious a Jewel he had of his Boy Clancie; to whose Breast he durst commit the greatest Secret: Nor was he Master of that thing in the World, he could not trust his Servant Clancie with.  
As appeared upon an occasion the Monsieur had to Travil into some far remote part whither his occasions drew him, and required his attendance for some considerable Time; which he acquainted his trusty Servant with; and told him withal, how great his satisfaction was at Parting, to know he left behind him the trustiest, carefullest, and honestest Servant in the World; in whom he so much confided, that he would leave him in his House at Paris, to have a particular Care of his Trunks; wherein there lay some Papers of concern, his Apparel, and some Money. The Boy having with Tears expressed his great sorrow for being left behind his Dear Master; from whom he had never been separated since his coming into his Service till now; not knowing what it was to disobey, receives his Charge, takes leave of his Master and Fellow-Servants, and with a heavy heart prepares for Paris to his Master's house, where he was received by his Fellow-Servants there with much cheerfulness; and as soon as he had showed his Master's Orders, it was with a great deal of readiness immediately observed, and Clancie put into the possession of those Rooms wherein lay those Trunks formerly mentioned.  
Clancie very Diligently came every day to discharge his Trust, by Airing his Master's clothes, sorting his Papers, and some times Fingering his Money, only to please himself by the sight of such a sum in his own Custody, which he could hardly believe, although hourly at the sport of telling.  
One Day being invited to his Exercise of Brushing, by a Clear and bright Sunshine day (which he seldom neglected) comes into the Room, Locks the Door, lays apart each Suit of Clothes, with all that belonged to it:) (and looking about, seeing no body to interrupt him) had a great desire to see how that would become him, which he puts on, walks up and down, then to the Looking-Glass he goes; where he was so startled at first, that he stepped back; hardly knowing who it was in such a Habit. But finding at last, after part of his wonder was over, that it was himself; begins to propose to himself, how happy and how fortunate should he be, if he could order matters so, as to keep all this finery by which he was so altered, that he might but appear to all others, as to himself in the Glass.  
This Great and strange Alteration more and more increases, being by his Thoughts pursued upon every occasion when ever he changes out of one Suit into another. Till at last it is resolved that his Thoughts are restless, till this Design is effected: which he believes will be very easy, considering that all the People in the House will give him no opposition, being very well satisfied, he will do nothing without Commission from his Master: and therefore will rather assist than hinder him in whatever he attempts.  
Clancie tells the People, he will remove his Trunks to his Master's Countryhouse, where he is commanded to wait his coming. In order to which, there are Carts prepared, the Goods packed up, and Clancie upon his Road, accompanied by several of his Comrades that came in Compliement to see him part of his way. Who no sooner took their Leaves, but he steered his course another way, and Bends toward the Seaside, where meeting a Ship ready to set Sail for Wexford in Ireland, agrees with the Owner: puts his Goods aboard, of whom we hear no more till his arrival in Wexford.  
Where was received by the chief of that place as a person of that Quality (that he professed) ought to be. The show he made by his Equipage, and the number of his Attendance, with his bounty to the Captain of the Ship, and his Seamen who were not sparing to give a ve-very large Character of him: confirmed the Inhabitants of Wexford that he must be a great Man; and was so free of his Coin at all times, to those that did him any Service, by which he gave occasion to be made the only Table Talk, and chief Discourse of the Town: happy was he could have opportunity to Contract a Friendship with him, his Discourse was very taking, especially amongst the Ladies, and the better sort: spending his time in Feasting, and making entertainments at any Rate; and receiving Returns of like nature was so pleasing a Pastime to him, without regard to expense, that he intended to spend most of his time there, to the great satisfaction of them all.  
He had not been many Months there, when there chanced to arrive in the same Harbour a Nobleman of Scotland, coming out of Spain, by Name, the Earl of Crafford. The Townsmen Resolving to Receive, and Entertain him as became them, made Suit to their Friend Major Clancie to Countenance them in this interest: who was very glad of the occasion, to bring him into the Earl of Craffords Acquaintance; who did it so well, and so much to their satisfaction, that they look upon it as a great Addition to the many former favours he had conferred upon them; after the Ceremonial part was over at the water side, the chief Magistrate with all the Aldermen and most considerable of the Town, having finished Compliment, and  
Major Clancie his to some purpose, first in discharge of his Trust, and next in his ow● behalf, signifying how happy he accounted himself, to have so fit an Opportunity to give his Service to my Lord: for all which my Lord makes such a return of thanks, that all were extremely satisfied. The Major desired his Lordship to do him the honour to make use of his apartment till his own was in readiness, which my Lord willingly accepted of: where was prepared for his Reception, a very Handsome Treat; to which were invited (to keep my Lord Company) the Best of the Town; so soon as my Lords Quarters were ready, they all in their several stations waited upon his Lordship thither: and all took their Leave, only Major Clancie, with whose conversation my Lord was so pleased, that he was unwilling to part so soon, though sufficiently weary after so tedious a Voyage.  
The day following, his Lordship having refreshed himself, was very desirous to spend some time in Merriment, with those Gentlemen that had been so civil to him upon his Arrival, especially Major Clancie, to whom my Lord sent to invite the Rest to Dine, and bring such others with him as he thought fit. The Major to observe my Lords Command, having first invited those of the Town, and meeting accidentally with a Person of Quality, dwelling two or three Miles from Wexford, named Mr. Cheevers, who was very desirous to kiss my Lord of Craffords hand, the Major invites him to Dine with my Lord, my Lord welcomes him with all the Cheerfulness imaginable.  
Much time was spent in Feasting, each one striving to outdo the other, all intending the welcome of my Lord of Crafford. Major Clancie is counted the best Garnish to each Feast: Mr. Cheevers being at several of them, conceives himself obliged to take his turn in the List, which he speedily effects, being seldom unprepared for all such Encounters: some few days after, Mr. Cheevers having acquainted his Lady how he was invited by Major Clancie, and so extremely much made of by my Lord Crafford, commending to that height the Person and Parts of the Major, which put both Wife and Daughters into no small longing for the Sight and Conversation of the Person so much commended by Mr. Cheevers, that seldom was heard to commend any Man, that they all press for his coming to their House, which is agreed upon. An entertainment is prepared in Mr. Cheevers' House, to which is invited the Earl of Crafford, Major Clancie and some Neighbours.  
It would undoubtedly be too tedious in the recital, if I should particularise each Circumstance and Ceremony made use of, where so many Ladies are concerned, and so many great Persons entertained. Therefore let it suffice, that you know the Preparation is great, the Company very Gallant, and the Ladies very Fine; this Feast continues fourteen days, every Creature so satisfied, and Complaisant that cheerfulness might be read in every one's Countenance, especially the Major, who is so taken with his new Acquaintance Mrs. Katherine, eldest Daughter to Mr. Cheevers, to whom he bends all his Addresses, with so much earnestness, as if he had resolved to Dedicate his whole Life and Fortune to her Service (she finding so great a confirmation of those Truths, as she believed spoke by her Father in praise and Commendation of the Major) was willing enough, so far as her Modesty would give her leave, to receive and return in like manner, all those passionate Expressions of his unquenchable Flame; if not restrained by the strict Rules of his Duty, which she resolves never to swerve from. Her Father having some hints given him of the Business, took a seasonable opportunity (meeting his Daughter in the Garden very solitary) begins to examine her, with a strict Charge not to Conceal any part of the Truth, as she valued her only happiness, and the quiet and consolation of a fond Father (whom she knew loved her above the rest of his Children) To which she made this Answer, That she would sooner hazard her being for ever unhappy, than once displease him, and that she never intended to dispose of herself, without his Privity and consent: and that however her inclinations were bend, this was her resolution. My Child (says Mr. Cheevers) I am glad to hear you say so, and yet do find that you count yourself unhappy for ever, if you have not this Gentleman. But my Child, have a little patience till I make a farther inquiry into the matter; that in Case I find him to be the Son and Heir of Mr. Clancie of Enestmian (as he says) I may provide him such a Portion as his Estate deserves. Whereupon, she being willing to second her Inclinations, and having this little encouragement from her Father, continued her wont kindness to her Lover; which the Father perceiving, and being apprehensive that so much Familiarity might occasion worse effects, either to her Reputation, or the dissatisfaction of her Parents, would sometimes▪ give her Admonitions, some sharp Reprehensions; bidding her beware, lest she run headlong to her one destruction, by Marrying a Man (that for aught he knew) would prove a Counterfeit, she having contracted so great a Friendship with her Beloved, could conceal nothing from him not so much as her Father's Advice. Wherein the word Counterfeit was used, which by the Major was interpreted as the greatest term of Reflection in the world, and told her; that if it were not for her sake that was dearer to him than all other considerations; ●e would expect reparation: she percieving how great a Discomposure her indiscretion put him into, could not forbear to express with her Tears, the sorrow of heart; he persuaded her by all the endearing Language of a passionate Lover to forbear grieving, giving her all the assurance of his constansie, that her own heart could wish: by telling her that neither this, or any thing could happen: should ever have power to alter him, or lessen his affection in the Least: and that affection should never end but with his Life. With which she rested satisfied, being willing to give Credit to all he says; this past on till Dinner, to which the Major was called. The Company being set, all took Notice of the great change they observed in the Major's Countenance; my Lord asked him what the Matter was? Whether an Indisposition of the Body, or the Mind? He answered, That his Provocation was such, as might very well occasion both; when his Honour and Reputation were questioned, where he could hope for little or no redress. This put them all to Silence; every Body bethinking themselves wherein, or which way they or either of them had given the Major any manner of Offence. Mr. Cheevers, who was extremely troubled to see so great a Disappointment, both to him, and his Friend, that intended nothing but Mirth: broke the silence first by desiring the Major to assure himself in the knowledge that there was not one in this Company but loved and Honoured him, and would be most heartily sorry to give the least occasion for a thought of disservice to him, and therefore desired him to lay aside all such apprehension: and continue his wont custom of being the best company in the World; without which there was no living. My Lord and the rest said as much, or rather more to the same purpose; to which the Major listened with a great deal of attention, and after having given to each particular thanks for those kind expressions, turns to Mr. Cheevers, and tells him that he scarce knew how to reconcile those differences that occasioned all this dissorder. First, his obligation for all the Favours he had received in so plentiful an entertainment, and so large professions of kindness, and but the day before when he was advising his Daughter in Terms of so great reflection upon him, by calling him a Counterfeit: that he did not well know how to bear it, and told him with all, that it was an ill Garnish to so brave entertainment, to upbraid Gentlemen of Quality, whose Birth, and education rendered them capable of better Language: and that for his own part, his trouble was so great to occasion so much disquiet to this noble company, and so discomposed for his affront: that he could believe no better of himself than a Bedlam, nor could he propose better Medium at all, but to leave the place, and so depart, he desired my Lord of Crafford's countenance: who was so much a Servant to the Major; that he could deny him nothing; but being very desirous to reconcile those differences, used all the means he could think of, but all in vain.  
So soon as dinner was done, my Lord gave orders to his People to make ready, so did the Major, it is impossible to tell you how this sudden change of the Scene turned and altered the Face of affairs in this place. Where hitherto there was nothing to be seen, or heard: but what gladly contributed to the unspeakable satisfaction and consolation of the whole Company. Now upon the sudden (as if the fates had conspired the ruin of all their happiness) turned quite another way: all so confounded and troubled for parting in this manner, that none knew well how to dispose of themselves, especially poor Mrs. Katherine: who looks upon herself as the most miserable, and most unfortunate Creature in the World, to be the only and absolute Author, and occasion of this so unhappy a separation: she is now like a Prisoner confined. After taking their leaves, and distributing to the Servants; the whole Company dispersed, my Lord and the Major go together to Wexford, where I must for sometime leave them to direct themselves as their several inclinations lead them.  
The Major taking hold of this occasion and fearing some other discoveries, resolves to remove from thence, acquainting his dear Friend my Lord with the intention at this time occasioned by Mr. Cheevers, and finding how apt the People were to censure him he would endeavour to prevent the like for the future, by making known that he was the Son of such a Father as he professes, and no Counterfeit, as Mr. Cehevers took the Liberty to term him. In this resolution he desired my Lord to do him the Favour to dine with him before his going away: to which request my Lord made answer, that he had too much friendship for him ever to deny him any thing though sorry to lose his company so soon, yet could not disapprove of his so well grounded reasons. The next day being appointed, my Lord came to the Major's House, so did a great many more of the chief of the Town, all seeming to be much troubled to think that the Major is upon leaving them, he receives them with a great deal of kindness, and promises, so soon as he settles his affairs to return to them again.  
Being at dinner, and in a pretty pitch of Jolitry the Major calls his trusty Servant privately, gives him orders to be gone to a Place called Ross: and thither to carry with him all his Trunks, and Cloakbags, with all the goods he had there, to take Lodgings and wait his coming, which was no sooner commanded, then with all the speed that could be observed. The Major had no more trouble about it who had nothing now to do, but entertain his Friends, in which he lost no time, when (believing his Servant to be a good distance from the Town) bethought him of his time to follow, then calls for the other Glass, and begins to my Lord a health, to that poor distressed for lost Prisoner his Mrs. which my Lord most readily pledged, and seemed much troubled he had not the Honour to begin it, while healths were going round, the Major calls for Boxes, and Dice, then for his Servant, to bring him Money, whom he knew to be some Miles from thence, which my Lord observing, bid his Purs-bearer to give the Major Forty Pound, or what sum he would have: which the Major made use of a while, then left one in his place, as if called upon in haste, took Horse and went away followed his Servant (without noise) to Ross. My Lord, and his Company at play wondered at the Major's stay, then calls for a Glass, and drank his health, giving him commendations by the Dozen, till at the last the company began to grow weary; called for their Servants to attend them to their several homes, some to lead, and some to carry, but before they part, the Master of the House appears with a long Bill of Fair in his Hand; which the soberer part of the Company (as my Lord, and some few others) seeing, asked what he meant by it, he told them he knew not who to call to for his Money; that the Major had been in his House a good while, and never gave him Penny yet: nor did he now know where he was, or what became of him; and that he hoped his Lordship, and these Gentlemen would not see him undone  
§ The Gentlemen looking one upon another, wondering, were all struck dumb! Come, come says my Lord, it is not not to be supposed much less believed, that a person of Honour and Quality would do an unhandsome thing; therefore let us suspend our opinions till we hear farther: for I dare say there is some extraordinary accident that occasioned this sudden departure or there never had been this cause of complaint; however he is my Friend, and shall suffer nothing in my presence, and for your Bill of Fair my Man shall pay you presently. The Man was called, Major Clancie's debt of two and Twenty Pounds paid, the Company parted, my Lord to his House: the Gentlemen to their homes, and the Major to Ross.  
§ I must now for some time leave this good Company, and return to the poor discontented Prisoner, whose unacquainted passions bred such a distemper in her, that she fell sick of a Fever: but by the Indulgent care of a fond Mother, soon recovered of that distemper. She studies nothing naw, but how she shall make some Reparation to her beloved, and conffirm him in an Opinion of her constancy; this she contrives to do by a Letter: sends it by her Foster Sister, (whose care is not questioned) she delivers the Letter to the Major at his House in Ross, who no sooner read it, but puts himself into a posture to comply with the Contents, which signified her sorrow, for the separation occasioned by herself, and that she knew not how to repair it otherwise, than by giving him this Testimony; that if he pleased to come to such a place, at such an hour, with half a Dozen Horses; she would not fail to meet him, resolving to be for ever after at his Dispose (I suppose I need not mention how he was Transported with joy when he received this comfortable Letter, or how plentifully he rewarded the messenger that brought it, and carried back his Answer) after dispatching the messenger, he immediately takes Horse, and goes unto Wexford, where the memory of this Prank was yet fresh.  
I know not whether I may call it confidence, or impudence; but into my Lord of Crafford's Chamber he goes, who welcomed him as Cheerfully as if his Lordship had received many obligations from him; the Major finding his reception to be such as he could not in reason have expected from any Body, began to make his Excuse, attributing the misfortune of so abrupt a departure to an accident that suddenly befell him, which my Lord would hear no more of: why then my Lord since you are still my best Friend, pray read this Letter, which he did, and and then asked him, what Service can you imagine me capable to do in this occasion. Only to lend me your best Horse. That I conceive will not be enough (says my Lord) for here she directs your coming not only well Horsed; but well accompanied with half a Dozen Horses; 'tis pity but she mould be observed: which (for her sake) I will adventure first to go. You shall have my Grey Horse for yourself, and I with my Five Servants will wait upon you, this being a business could admit of no long delay. My Lord order the matter so, that in a very little time they are all on Horse back, marching fairly to the place appointed by the Lady, who failed not to do her part in coming at the hour according to her promise. After she had saluted the kind lover, over joyed; my Lord told them this was no time or place for dalliance; so to Horse she went, they as before, and she behind her Servant. Where was interchanged some glances of Love-looks, while they had leisure; which was not very long, when Mr. Cheevers upon notice of the Design gathers all his forces together, pursues the party, for whom they were too hard; yet they disputed their interest like men of Honour. But Mr. Cheevers soon decided the quarrel, though not without blood, which (he might the better do) being ten times their number. In short, the Lady was rescued, the Major wounded, and my Lord taken Prisoner; the Major escaped by the goodness of his Horse, which in little time brought him to Ross: where he lies under the hands of his Chirurgeon, the Lady is made Prisonner the second time, with many threats of punishment for occasioning all this bustle: as also the breach of promise in the Garden; my Lord is led into the Common-dark-hall; where he walks up and down in Querpo (like a prisoner of War) without Hat, Cloak, or Sword; the place not affording so much light as to let them see who it was, till Mr. Cheevers coming in thither in state with Torches carried before him, who seeing my Lord of Crafford in this posture: asked him Pardon a Thousand times, and wondered extremely to see his Lordship there, blameing all his people for being so disrespective as not to distinguish between my Lord and others: my Lord (who knew very well what did belong to Fight, and how few Ceremonies of that Nature are then used) makes excuse for the People; who immediately brought him his Sword, and all that they had taken from him; and set his Servants at Liberty; Mr. Cheevers is now at quiet, believing the storm now over his Daughter is rescued, and secured from any farther Attempts of the Major, so as he only bends his endeavours wholly to entertain my Lord; who he hopes will appear no more in countenancing the Major, in a thing so prejudicial to that Family; this he expressed in his discourse to my Lord, who made Answer, that what he did in assisting his Friend, was not to prejudice him in the least, but that it was his constant Custom never to fail that Friend to whom he once professed Friendship. Supper being ended, they believing my Lord weary after the Counter-scuffle lighted him to his Chamber, and so left him to his rest. Who next Morning betimes takes his leave and goes to Wexford.  
All things in this place seem now to be at ease, save only the restless condition of the poor Prisoner, whose apprehensions torment her, not knowing if her sweet heart be Dead, or alive; then considering how instrumental she was in his misfortunes, these and many such distracting thoughts do so perplex her: that she is at her wit's end; (a thing easily believed, especially of all such as either are or have been Sick of her disease.) Sometimes she resolves to make her Escape, and come to him where ever he is: again that seems difficult, or rather impossible. Then is she as far to seek as ever; at last she resolves to Write, and commit it to the care of her Foster-Sister; this resolution takes place: she Writes to let him know how unquiet her Life is, and how little satisfaction she has in the World without him; not knowing what was become of him, she farther signifies, that if he please (seeing public meetings will not do) to try a private, to come to such a place, at such an Hour, such a day in the Evening, she would be ready to meet him.  
This Letter she delivered to the Foster-Sister, with promises of a large Reward for her Care. The Foster-Sister thinking to prevent more mischief, takes the Letter, and delivers it not where she was directed; but to Mr. Cheevers who read it over and over; and believing he could make some use of it, looks upon the superscription, as if he had read it in mistake, and tells her, this Letter is not for me, go and deliver it to him it is directed to, whereupon she goes to Ross, where she found the Mayor laid upon his bed, and gives it him, by which he received so great satisfaction, that he waited no longer for his Plasters; but Writes his Answer, and dispatches the messenger, then prepares for the day and Hour appointed Nor was he more diligent or careful in his preparation for that meeting, than Mr. Cheevers, so that when the Major was come to the place, expecting his Mistress there, instead of her whom he expected, he meets a company of Clubbatiers; that lay in ambush to wait his being on Foot. Who no soonner lighted, but they laid hold of him; and where he expected Embraces, and sweet Kisses, they paid him with Buffets, and Crabsticks into such a pickle, as never was any poor Man before in this posture. They carry him to Mr. Cheevers, who believed himself sure of this booty, and therefore prepared to receive him, not as heretofore, but with a pair of Stocks, which he had placed in his Common-hall, purposely to be in Sight of all, both Men and Women, in the House; with which Sight very few were pleased but himself: who resolved to eat in the same Room, purposely to affront the Major, who is now in the Stocks, with his Clothes torn, his Face buffeted, and his Head broken. A Sight so displeassing to the good Mistress. of the House, that she desired her Husband to mitigate part of this Rigour, or rather Tyranny; for her part she was not able to endure to see a Person of his Quality and parts thus used like a Beast in her House, and that he might find other means to Right himself, or prevent the harm he apprehended, without infringing the Laws, and Rules of hospitality thus. This speech did in some measure mollify the unreasonableness of Mr. Cheever's passion; so that he turned toward the Major, and told him how much it was against his inclination to use any Gentleman thus, and that if he would pass his Parole, never to proceed farther in this mattor, or give him any farther trouble in it: he was ready to restore him first his Liberty, and then all that had been taken from him, as his Horse, and Arms, and all that belonged to him.  
To this Speech, she Major makes this Answer, Mr. Cheevers, it should seem (although you are a very knowing Man) you never read of the Knight of the Sun, or of his Brother Ross Clear, or of Rogero, or any of the famous and brave Men at Arms! how much they suffered for their Mistresses: (if you had, undoubtedly) you would in some measure have considered me, who of myself can consider nothing in comparison to my Mistress for when I Remember, or call to mind, that what I suffer, or endure, is for her; it sweetens all my sufferings. I must confess Liberty is a great, and very pleasing thing (especially after such hardships as has been put upon me,) and a thing I should covet and court. Were it to be purchased either by Labour, Coin, or Blood I should not stick at it. But to Relinquish my Pretences to my Mistress as if I would prefer any worldly consideration before her, I will never do it, nor is it in the Power of the whole World to make me do it. Let them and you, whose Prisoner I now am, Inflict what Punishment you please, it shall never be of force sufficient to divorce me from her Service.  
This Answer wrought so upon the Mistress of the House, as also upon all that heard it, that it moved them all to Pity (I hope his own Mristress was not far off) She never left soliciting her Husband, till she obtained the Major's Liberty, than were all the Servants striving who should do him most Service. One brings Water, another the Towel, another his Hat: all waited upon him to Supper, and from thence to his Chamber. Next Morning, having his Horse and Arms delivered him in very good Order, he takes his Leave, particularly of the good Lady of the House, that procured him his Liberty.  
No sooner did he find himself without the Gate, mounted upon my Lords Grey Horse, and his Pistols fixed before him, but he turns towards the Door, and vows with a great imprecation, that no Body shall pass that way, but he will have his Life; unless they let him see his Mistress before he goes. This put Mr. Cheevers into such a Rage of Anger with his Wife; You see, says he, what you have done, by giving this Man his Liberty; which way will you contrive to pacify him now? Were it not better to have kept him where he was? Let me see which of all you that were so much his Friends, Dare go and reason the matter with him? Not I, says one; nor I, says another; I am not so much concerned in the Matter says a third; in Conclusion, none of them seemed willing to venture on so desperate a Man, whose Anger they were not willing to provoke. At last they fixed upon a Reverend Person that was Chaplain to Mr. Cheevers, who with a great deal of entreaty, took upon him to Argue the matter with the Major. The Major seeing him come in such fear, bid him not be afraid, and told him he should be heard without Danger; and likewise asked him what his Reverence had to say, and whether he spoke by Commission, or of his own accord. The Reverend Father told him, he came to advise him chiefly for his Soul's sake, and next desired him to desist this Suit; for he knew of his own knowledge, it was to no purpose to do otherwise. Pray Father, Replies the Major, do you know more of her Mind than I do? Hark you Sir, I know you are a Priest, and therefore Conjure you by all that is Dear to you, to bring me an Answer to the Message you are to carry, or else by the same Oath you are to take, I will, without regard to your Function, Pistol you before you leave this Place. This great Threat, put the poor Priest into such a Fright, that he knew not what to say, or do; only promise to deliver his Message, and bring an Answer: which was, to let him know, if he may see his Mistress before he go or not. The Priest undertakes it, to return upon the same Penalty, in case he procure not the Sight of his Mistress: in whose Retreat to Mr. Cheevers and the rest, you might see the Greatest Fright, the greatest Consternation that ever Man was in. His own Shadow was enough to startle him; several times thinking as he looked back, it was the Major in pursuit of him: He no sooner come into the Hall, where Mr. Cheevers with his Lady, and Company were, but he throws one way his Hat, another way his Books and Spectacles, like a mad Man, declaring his Misfortune in coming into that Service, hoping now for no other Reward, than to be killed by Major Clancie, still crying out, what had I to do with your Daughter, or yourself, or her sweetheart? What need I to involve myself in all this trouble? I must go back again to be Killed. Good Father says Master Cheevers. be quiet, and tell us what ails you, what ails me? cries he; The Devil ailed me, to concern myself in this affair, wherein I am sure to lose my Life, for if you do not consent that he may see your Daughter before he goes, (which I know you will not) I must go and tell him so, and am confident never to return with Life, for what cares that Man what Mischief he does me. Truly Father, I would do so much to save your Life: therefore let me entreat you to pacify yourself, and Believe I will free you from this Danger you so much apprehend, by letting him see my Daughter; but it shall be at such a distance, and in such a place as She shall receive no prejudice by it. So having given this hope of Relief, to the Reverend Father, with some Cordials to bring him to himself) They all walk up to the Castle where, in the middle of a large window, they held her to be seen by the Major to the Middle, at which Sight he rejoices more, than if thither came an Angel from Heaven. In this Posture, and the Hearing of all, they gave each other the comfortable assurance of Constancy, unalterably to be preserved by both, during the whole term of their Lives. The Major departs and Rides away.   

CHAP. II.  
THe Major at Ross, where since his first coming he daily continues his Hospitable course of Life, by which he had Purchased a general Good Opinion, with the Character of the bravest Man, and best Companion that ever came into that City: where most of their time was spent in Feasting by Turns, which Custom is now continued upon the Majors Return. The first Night he invites all his Companions, and fellow-Feasters, with their Wives, to Sup with him. All came overjoyed to see him safely returned; from whence they knew not; yet were very sensible of their own loss, by his Absence.  
They are all so desirous to be linked by some Title or Tie of Friendship to the Major, that one calls him Uncle, another his Brother, another calls him his Patron; by which all are entitled, not only to a greater Interest in him; but also to a large and fair pretence to good Drinking.  
The next time it came to his turn, observing some of his Companions absent, contrary to promise and agreement: he seemed to be something discomposed at it, which they interpreted to be a great Argument of his good Nature: he calls aside one of the Company, with whom he had contracted the Greatest Friendship of all, to whom at all times he imparted his greatest Secrets, or at least made him believe so; tells him of the great Trust, and ●on●idence he had always reposed in him, having so often experimented the reality of his proposed Friendship, which he is now necessitated to make a farther Trial. Thus,  
§. You have been no Stranger to my manner of Living, since my coming into this place, which I must con●ess is the same I have ever used in all my Travels, and is chiefly the occasion of this Trouble to you, which I hope will prove advantageous to you in the end. My constant Expense, has exhausted my Stock of Money, which you must supply with the sum of Fifty pounds, to carry me into Twomond, where my Estate lies. I am told that my Mother is married to my Lord of Insiqueen's Brother, Mr. Christopher Obrien, and what Provision is made for me, or how things may be embezzled I know not, by reason I was sent abroad very young, where I have continued till now, trusting to Providence for my subsistence; and for this great kindness, I will bestow a Farm of fifty pounds a Year upon you, Rentfree, during your Life: and for your better security for the present, I will leave in your Custody one of my Trunks, which I must entreat your care of, till I return you your money; which I intent to bring you within few Months.  
Mr. White was in no small trouble at this request, not knowing well how to deny, or grant it, being but newly Married, and that without the consent of either his Wives Parents, or his own; nor did he know what Money his Wife had, and therefore desired the Majors Excuse till he went home, and spoke with her; which he did immediately, and told her how great an Addition to his small Fortune he was like to have by the kindness of his new sound, and most dear Friend Major Clancie; who had given him a Farm of Fifty Pounds Per Annum. Rend free, dureing Life, and only desired a small Courtesy, the Loan of Fifty Pounds for some Months, and in the mean time would leave in his custody, one of his Trunks; a very sufficient Pledge for a greater Sum. The Wife made many Excuses; at last, being by her Husband importuned with so much earnestness consented; delivered Fifty Pieces in Gold to her Husband, who made all the haste he could, and carried it to the Major, who no sooner received it; but he order the Trunk to be delivered to his good Friend Mr. White, and he to his Wife, where it is very safely, and securely laid. By this time the whole Company were in such a height of Jollity, minding nothing else but drinking, that Major Clancies Servant had leisuer enough to observe the directions he had from his Master the day before, to Watch his opportunity to be gone, with all the remaining goods to Kilkenney, and there to stay, and wait the coming of his Master: this was very punctually observed▪ and performed, a fine thing! a diligent discreet Servant! of this we hear no more till we meet in Kilkenney. The Major seeing most of the Company elevated, begins a Rousing health, to put all a sloat: and before that health went round, took occasion to go down Stairs (leaving one of his trusties to see fair Play) he walks fairly on the Ferry, there being an Arm of the Sea to cross: takes boat, goes aboard a Ship that lay in the Harbour, being well acquainted with the Captain, who bid him very heartily welcome, repeating his obligations for several kindnesses received at his quarters in the City; the Major unwilling to make any long stay, told he only came to take his leave, being upon his Journey toward Killkenney; so having distributed to the Seamen, takes his Boat, the Captain with him, that resolved to compliment him to the shoar-side: and so return to his ship; where at his going, he ordered half a Dozen Guns to be given to the Major's farewell; which made such a noise, that the whole Town alarmed (especially) the company that were solaceing themselves by drinking the Major's health, to whom they were so much beholding; all started at this shooting of great Guns, not knowing where, or whence it came: till one coming up stairs, tells them it is a Shipboard; whereupon they all resolved to go aboard that Ship that shot, and know what the matter was, which they immediately very furiously did, in company with the Major of the Town, who was then with them, and was no sooner aboard, but fell so fiercely to examine the Captain; all talking together: being so confoundedly Drunk, some threatening to punish him, for putting the Town into such a fright, others seeming to excuse him, though they knew not yet for what, or which way; but all in such a disracted confusion, that the Captain thought Hell had been broken loose; they were so disorderly, that he knew not how to pacify them, at last turning to the Major and the rest, he tells them, gentlemans either be quiet, and hear reason, or go home and sleep: for I have done nothing but what is warrantable, and just; in giving a noble person a few Guns, being upon his Journey to Killkenney, that had been very civil and kind to me, and bountiful to my men. I have not been spareing of my Powder upon such an occasion as this, to persons of far meaner quality than Major Clancie; they no sooner heard the name of Clancie, but were all silenced, as if struck mute with admiration, and wonder at the Major's departure in that manner; thus are the People quieted, and the Captain at rest: each to their several homes, entertaining their Wives with stories of Major Clancie, now the only pastime of that Place. Whoever was pleased with this Subject for discourse (I do suppose) Mr. Deverox, the Master of the House, where Major Clancie lay, was not, who from the time of his coming to Ross, to that Hour never received promise of his Money, poor Man, not knowing which way to turn him, having several ways run himself in debt for the Supply of the Major, from time to time; whom if he should follow to Killkenney, he is certain to lose his Labour; if he shall stay in his House, he is afraid of his persecuting Creditors; who now begin to call for their Moneys, which the poor Man has not to give them, nor indeed does he know what course, or whose advice to take for his preservation: at last he bethinks him of a way that in appearance seems Feasible, and easy; which he first communicates to Mr. Maior (being related to him) that is to Petition the whole Town: most of them one time or other, having part of his spoil at those entertainments made for them by the Major, desiring them to consider him as a Native and long inhabitant of Ross: whose deportment none of them could be a stranger to, and that this sum of Thirty Pounds must unavoidably destroy him, and if that they pleased to contribute toward his preservation so far, as to divide this sum amongst them, which would make the burden light to them, the weight of which must break his back.  
§. The Major approves of it, the Aldermen and Citizens consented, so that the Creditors are satisfied, Mr. Deverox repaid his disbursments: who now thinks himself as Rich as an yof them; Mr. White who quietly hitherto listened to the several Complaints of those that exclaimed against the Major, he applauding his own happiness, in having that Interest in the Major, who had promised him so good a Farm, and left him so good a Pledge for his fifty pounds, that he laughed in his Sleeve, at all others.  
One Morning his Wife's Fingers Itched to be at the Major's Trunk, desired her Husbands leave to save her Longing; He tells her how unwilling he is to meddle, lest some of the Major's Goods might receive some Prejudice thereby; but she presses him so to open the Trunk, that there is no denial; only he must first acquaint the Mayor of the Town, and desire him to be present for prevention of mistakes; to the Mayor he goes, and tells him how he had lent money to Major Clancie, who left him a sufficient Pledge, and that his Wife being desirous to see the inside of it, pressed him to open the Trunk; to which he desired his Worship to come and be a Witness to what was in it; and that no injury should be offered to the Major's Goods. The Mayor promises to be with him at the hour of three in the Afternoon without fail.  
§. The Mayor comes at his hour, with several of the best in Town, to witness this great exploit; upon whose coming the Smith is sent for, with his Tools to break open the Trunk (which is not long a doing) no sooner the Lock is off, but the Wife runs in all haste to open it; the first thing the met with, was a piece of Satin, with which all the r●st was covered, which you may believe were better so than seen: for from that piece of Satin to the bottom of the Trunk, there was nothing but Brickbats, Clods of Earth, and such like; at which Sight the Mayor and all the rest, could hardly forbear Laughing.  
§. The Wise seeing herself cheated, without any manner of Hope ever to be relieved; falls a railing at her Husband, whose Patience is now sufficiently tried. From Railing she falls to Fight of him; so that the Mayor▪ and those others that came with another intention, had enough to do to part Man and Wife: whose best pastime is to scold, imputing the blame of all their misfortunes, to each other; a Fate that attends stolen matches so made without the Privity, or Consent of Parents.  
§. The Major by this time is arrived at Towmond, where his old acquaintance and Friends very much admire to see the greatness of his Change, both in Apparel and Education.  
The Gentlemen of that Country are extremely taken with his conversation, especially Mr. Macnemarroe of Ralahim, a place so often frequented by him, as if it had been his constant dwelling. The constant Resort of Strangers thither so common, and so well known, that I must suppose there needs no other mention of his Hospitality.  
One day as the Major was Travelling the Road near that place, he accidentally met a Gentleman newily coming into the Country from abroad, going homeward where he had not been in some years: longing much to pay his Duty to his Father, the Lord of Mountgarrot. The Major Accosts him with so many extraordinary signs of Joy, that Mr. Butler marvelled at the suddenness of this great Intimacy upon the first acquaintance; which the Major perceiving, told him, Sir pray wonder not at my Presumption, nor my Transport, till I have unfolded the Cause. First, I had the Honour to know you in such a place in France, where you were pleased to own me for your Servant. The next is, my great satisfaction to meet you here, from whence you shall not go (if I may prevail so much with you) till you thoroughly inform yourself what my Fortune is, that am nearly related to you, by my Marriage to your near Kinswoman, Daughter to Mr. Cheevers near Wexford, where I have been lashed with the censure of being a Counterfeit; which I hope you will soon be able to remove. My house is not far from hence, whither I must entreat your Company.  
§. Mr. Butler told him he had not time to spare at present, and that he would rather choose to come on purpose from his Father's House to wait upon him at his own house, than lose one hours' time now: and that he would go to his Cousin Cheevers purposely to remove that Doubt, and censure: and give such a Character of him, as should render him capable of a better Opinion both with Mrs. and Mr. Cheevers and all his Friends. For his own part he desired nothing more than an opportunity to renew this his Acquaintance, and return this Civility; and withal assured him, how glad he was of his Alliance. After the exchange of many expressions to this purpose, Mr. Butler absolutely refused to go to his new Acquaintance and Cousin's house, by whom he was very much importuned.  
The Major seeing he could not prevail, presses him with much earnestness, to take a Bait with him, at another house of his, lately let to an Uncle of his, a Gentleman of that Country, of a very good Family, and good Estate; one Mr. Maccnemarroe, being just in his Road to Limerick: whither Mr. Butler intended to go that Night, and Major Clancie resolves to wait upon him, and see his Cousin safe out of the Country of Twomond, at least so far as Limerick, in his way was extremely glad of the Occasion, which Mr. Butler did not much scruple then, being willing to observe his Cousin.  
§. To Maccnemaroes' house they are come, led ●hither by the Major, who has that observance and ready Attendance from the Servants in the Absence of their Master, that he believes them to be Uncle and Nephew in good earnest. The Design of calling Maccnemarroe his Uncle was, that Mr. Butler should see he had Relations of Quality, and likewise take some notice what care, and at what distance he was obeyed here; they are plentifully entertained, the place being always provided for such occasions▪ Healths go very quickly about to Mistresses and Friends so fast, that they scarce take notice how the time goes; notwithstanding Mr. Butler's haste. They had not been long at this sport, when one of the Servants came running to the Major, to tell him that his Master, Maccnemarroe was alighting at the Gate: the Major asks Pardon and Leave of Mr. Butler, to go and welcome his Uncle who is come to the Gate. Down he hastes, and after Salutation, tells Maccnemarroe what a Guest he had brought to the house, believing it to be a great disparagement to the whole Country, if such a person as my Lord of Mountgarrot's Son should pass thorough without Entertainment. Mr. Maccnemarroe Embraces him, and gives him many thanks for that great favour. The Major tells him farther, how he had made Mr. Butler believe, that Maccnemarroe and he were Uncle and Nephew, to the end he might not wonder at his Interest there, nor the power he had taken upon him, which Maccnemarroe desired him to continue, and lose no time from that good work of entertaining that Gentleman, in which he would give all the Assistance he could, by surrendering to the Major all the power he had in the house: which the Major very readily, and gravely took upon him: into the House they both go together, where the Major presents to his Cousin Butler, his Uncle Maccnemarroe; Cousin Butler pray take notice of my Uncle; likewise presents his Cousin to his Uncle: so that here is upon the sudden a Knot of Kindred my Cousin, my Uncle, and my Nephew.  
§. The Uncle Maccnemarroe did really believe that the Major had a Design upon some Lady of Fortune, in which Mr. Butler might be useful to him, which made him use all the means he could to promote that Interest, and settle such an intimacy as might be necessary upon such an occasion.  
Mr. Butler thinks it high time for him to be gone, who, notwithstanding all the Arguments that are used both by Uncle, Nephew, and Cousin, persuading him to stay for some time, at least this Night, resolves for Limerick with his Cousin Clancie: who upon this Resolution, borrows his Uncle's fine Horse; Mr. Maccnemarroe was in a manner ashamed to deny him in the hearing of Mr. Butler, before whom he had been so kind, and had confessed his Relation: so lent the Horse and his Groom to attend him, with money in his Purse, lest either might have occasion to use it.  
§. To Limerick, goes Mr. Butler, accompanied with his wellbeloved Cousin Clancie: who is now bravely mounted, and well attended by two Servants, his own, and his Uncles: his Interest in his Cousin Butler is grown so great, that he can persuade him to any thing (though never so contrary to his own Inclination) insomuch, that notwithstanding his haste to see his Father, the Major wrought with him to stay in Limcrick, eight or ten days: most of which time, if not all, was spent in good fellowship with some new Acquaintance. Clancie being by this time almost weary of this place, and Company, begins to think of a way to get handsomely from thence, in order to which he calls the Groom, who was commanded to obey him, and bids him go to the West-Gate, and stay there for him, and leave the Bay Horse in readiness for him. As soon as the Groom was gone, he calls his own man, and bids him go towards the East Gate of the Town, out of the Grooms way, and about an hour after to come to him with some Story orother, by which he might pretend Excuse to part this place and Compahis Man being very apt, and quick of apprehension, and well versed in his Master's ways, soon understood his meaning; so went his ways.  
§. The Major returns to his Cousin Butler, they had not been together above an hour after breaking their Fast, to which they had taken a large Mornings-Draught, when in comes the Major's Man, like one half out of his Wits, which he taking notice of, says to his Cousin Butler, I think my Man is Drunk; what is the matter with you Sirrah? You look as if you were either Mad or Drunk? Whence came you, that makes you seem thus distracted? The Man being Sober, and not Barren-witted, tells him, it were no marvel if I should have lost my Senses to see so many of my own Relations and Friends undone, and ruined upon your Account, by having so many of my Lord of Insiqueens Soldiers quartered upon them, who with a great many more of your Tenants, are flocking with their Complaints to you: and you spend your time here.  
The Major bids him go to them, and forbid them to enter the City: and to tell them he would immediately go to the Commissioners, and see them have Reparation; with this seeming Resolution, he rises from the Table, borrows his Cousin Butlers Scarlet Cloak, Guarded with Goldlace, his fine Embroidered-Belt and Guilt-Rapier, goes down Stairs, and with much Expedition takes his Uncles Maccnemaarro's Horse, Rides quite another way from where he appointed the Groom to wait for him: whose Heels may cool before he comes; so may his Cousin Butler too, who intended the next Morning to begin his Journey towards his Fathers. His Condition I can but pity, to meet with such an unfortunate Accident, by which he is so disappointed, disordered, and disarmed, not knowing which way to turn him, or what course to take: only expects the coming of his Cousin, who I suppose intended it not.  
§. The Major designing to shun such places as he supposed the likeliest to meet any of those he so lately played his pranks with, takes the Road to galway: who should he meet, within a place not possible for him to avoid, but his very good friend Mr. Maccnema●●● whose occasions had at that time dra● 〈◊〉 that way? and seeing Major Clancie 〈◊〉 mounted upon his own Horse, so far from home with Mr. Butler's Cloak, and Belt, begun to suspect there was some Roguery in the matter, which in Examination he found it to be so: he first asked the Reason of this coming that way? and not sending home his Horse, which he only borrowed to Limerick? Then next he asked him how he came by that Cloak and Sword and Belt, which he knew belonged to Mr. Butler? He Answered, that he borrowed all with intent to restore them at his Return, within two or three days; which did not at all satisfy Mr. Maccnemarroe, who was very much concerned for Mr. Butler, which makes him resolve to take all from the Major, and go purposely to Limerick hopes to find Mr. Butler there, that he might restore him his things, so unhandsomely taken from him, which in conclusion he did; by which means Major Clancie is left naked, without Horse, Cloak or Sword.  
§. Mr. Butler hearing much of Major Clancie heartily wished it had been sooner, or that he had never known him. He is in such disorder, and so perplexed for this disappointment, that he does not well know what to do: he is very unwilling to send to his Father, by which he 〈◊〉 Discover how he was Cheated, under 〈…〉 and pretence of Friendship, whi●●● he had rather conceal by much; at last he resolves to go to the Commissioners, and inquire if Major Clancie had been with them? (as he pretended at parting) and what was become of him? Mr. Fanning the Chief Commissioner, understanding who Mr. Butler was, and what had befallen him, having ever deservedly had a great Regard for his Family; received him with abundance of kindness, and respect, and told him how sorry he was to hear him fall into the acquaintance of Major Clancie, of whom he never heard Good; and told him, if he wanted money to carry him home, he should command it, or any other Service within the reach or power of the Commissioners: who kept little or no Correspondence with Major Clancie, so as they could give no Account of him. This occasioned a long discourse between Mr. Butler, and the Commissioners: who were very desirous to hear how he came to have any intimacy with Clancie, he concealed nothing; but told them of the meeting upon the Highway, with all his Invitations, and how he carried him to his Uncle's House Mr. Macnemarroe, and so to Limerick, where he played him this last Prank: at which the Commissioners laughed heartily, knowing very well that Mr. Maccnemarroe had no Relation in the World to Clancie. One of the Commissioners standing in the Window, observes to come over the Bridge the very person Mr. Butler is discoursing of, Mr. Maccnemarroe, he turns about, and tells them, there comes the Gentleman you spoke of: he is no sooner got to his Lodging; but the Commissioners sent for him, to give them a further account of this matter: upon entrance into their Room, after a cold salute from all: one of the Commissioners asked him (by appointment) what was become of his Nephew Clancie? And before he could answer, told him how sorry they were that a Person of his Esteem, and great Reputation in his Country, a Man of that known Honour and Worth, that all his Life-time was looked upon as a principal preserver of the Credit of Twomond; at last to join with a Cheat, and could find no fitter a Subject for this Contrivance, but my Lord of Mountgarro●'s Son; and further, to the great discredit of the whole Country, to put a gloss upon the ill cause, and palliate the Design, there must be nothing but Uncle and Nephew, than a Pedigree must be found for a Relation to my Cousin Butler. I am so much ashamed to think you should have a hand in the like, that I can, say no more; but leave to the Commissioners to speak their own Senses. The Gentleman Mr. Maccnemarroe, extremely troubled to hear himself thus scandalously reproached; had scarce the patience to forbear interrupting the Commissioners: at last makes Answer: that he conceived he had very hard measure to be thus censured before he was heard; and that he scorned to have a hand in Cheating, as much as any of them that charged, or any other person in the World: as for joining with Major Clancie, he was so far from giving any Countenance upon any Design; that meeting him but lately upon the Road, he took from him Mr. Butler's Cloak, with the Sword and Belt, which he brought thither of purpose to restore them to Mr. Butler; who being present at this Account, much joyed to have his Goods restored, which was done immediately, gives them all his most hearty thanks, goes forthwith to his Lodging, discharges all them, so goes on his Journey. Mr. Maccnemarrhe could not hold to express his resentment in such Terms, as gave so much offence to the Commissioners; that they thought fit to Commit him; but before he was carried away, they asked him why he did not bring the Major, as well as the Goods; to which he only replied, he had no Commission.  
§. The Commissioners knowing very well Mr. Maccnemarroe's Life and Conversation, to be very far from the giving occasion for any the least suspicion, intending not to keep him under a Restraint any longer, sent for him, and assured him it was for no ill opinion they had of him, or ill Intention toward him, made them continue him: only for the jest sake, and desired him to take it so; with which he rested satisfied, only desired from them an authority to apprehend and bring before them that Villain that occasioned him all this trouble, and bitter reproaches. That they readily granted, with direction to the Sheriff of the County, to be aiding and assisting upon occasion. Mr. Maccnemarroe takes his leave, begins his way toward Galleway: Imagining that to be the likeliest place, supposing the Major could make no very long Marches, being a Foot: he is wholly bend for Revenge, and makes it his absolute and only Business to find out his Haunts; in which he spent much time, and labour before he could give himself any Information: But at last having placed his Spies, and Watches of all sides; he finds the Major in a very good amiable poisture, courting one of his new found Misses, from which divertion he carries him away to Limerick to the Commisioners, who commit him to the Almighty in Prison, where the Jailor is ordered to keep him close.  
§ The rumour of the Imprisonment and restraint of Major Clancie, with its cause, is spread all the Country over, so far as the County of Newford: where it is brought to the hearing of Mr. Cheevers, who is not at all troubled at it, although his family be, especially his Daughter. By the way Mr. White in Ross being told of this, obtains a Warrant from some person in Authority, that Major Clancie shall be sent from Constable to Constable till he be brought to Ross, to be gazed by all that have seen him in his Bravery. There revenge is sweet, though without hope of ever seeing his fifty pounds again, about the time that the Major was brought as far as Cashel in his way.  
§ The Earl of Insiquin in pursuit of the Ulster Army under the Command of General Owen Only, chances to quarter at a place called Farmbridg, near Cashel, where the night seeming very tedious to him, he desired a Gentleman then in his Company, somewhat acquainted with the Courses of Major Clancies Life, to entertain them with some passages to divert them; which the Gentleman did, and continued his narration so long, that after many fits of Laughter they found they were all asleep; and he talking to the walls, than thought it time for him to sleep too, they all slept heartily till morning, though upon bare Board's.  
§ Next morning betimes there comes a fellow to the Door, the Centrey challenged him, and bid him stand; asked him what he would have? whither he would go? he answered he would fain speak with a Gentleman that was with my Lord: the Centrey told him he should not, that it was an ill time now; for they were all asleep. The fellow pressed very hard for an admittance, or at least to have his message carried up to the Gentleman: whereupon the Soldier asked what his name was; he told, that his name was Clancie, at that the Gentleman with whom he would fain speak known him very well: they both spoke so loud that my Lord and the Company heard them, and did verily believe this to be that Person so much talked of, the night before. Whereupon the Gentleman so inquired after, goes down to see who it was; and seeing a man almost stark naked, without Hat or Cap, without Cloak or Coat, without Doublet, Shoe, or Stocking, or any other thing in the World; only a pair of Breeches with many Patches, and a Shirt suitable and fit to be worn with such a pair of Breeches: so dirty as if it had been dipped in a Kennel, in so much that the Gentleman knew him not, Major Clancie perceiving that his disguise had altered him from the Gentleman's knowledge, discovers himself to the Gentleman; who immediately carries him up to my Lord in that very posture: the memorey of the last night's Stories, with the sight of him in this Habit, put Lord and Gentleman into such a sit of merriment and Laughter that some were forced to leave the Room.  
§ The Major gives his Friend a Petition to present to my Lord, which the Gentleman took, but before I delivered this Petition if you would have this Gentleman to mediate for you, pray oblige them with the relation of some Passages of your Life, especially such and such; being the Stories he had told the night before; which the Gentleman would have needs confirmed by the Major himself: who did it so exactly well, and with such additions, as made them all so taken with him, that they joined in the request of his Petition, wherein was set forth how that the Major and his Predecessors having had there an ancient relation, out of mind of dependency upon his Lordship's House, and Family, and that he hearing of his Lordships being in the Field in pursuit of Owen Only: came to wait upon his Lordship; being some days before well prepared for such an occasion, being very well Mounted, and well Armed. But meeting with a number of disorderly Highwaymen, as he took them to be, was robbed of all he had, and left in the posture you now see him in: the sum of his request therefore is, that his Lordship will be pleased to give him a Pass to go through the Country to Limerick, where he means to recruit himself, and return to wait upon his Lordship in this expedition: which my Lord at the Entreaty of all that were present granted; Clancie takes his leave of all the Company, particularly his old Friend: and finding a Horse of very little valive (or a Garran more properly speaking) which he thought fit for his Turn, provides him a bundle of straw for a Saddle, a rope of Hay for his Bridle, and thus he rides in State into the County of Limerick: where he was so well known, that the people believed he had broke Goal, and by that means had made his escape: some run to apprehend him anew, who upon sight of his Pass from the Lord Insiquin were glad to let him alone. To his Lodging he rides without interruption: sends for his Barbers, prepares to be Bathed, and Trimed, and being provided of clothes was soon in condition to be admitted into Company.  
This only shows what Fortunes Change can do  
Makes Beggars brave Men in an hour or two.   

CHAP. III.  
THe Major is now returned unto Limerick, free from his fears of more restraint, the only Gallant of all the Town, the most pleasing, and best welcome Company that can be: no Company pleased without him, he seemingly resolves a new course of Life, clearly to reclaim himself from his long continued Vicious and most dishonest Practices: declaring in all Companies how apprehensive he is of his former carriages, and how justly punished for them, by which he is made so feelingly sensible, that there can be nothing, though of never so great value, of power sufficient to make him attempt to the prejudice of any man for the future. To second this resolution, and make the World believe what an uncounterfeited Penitent he is, he seldom misses being at Church, at those hours of Devotion appointed for the Godly: this was so generally observed, to the unspeakable Wonder of all that saw it, as hardly believed when reported to those that saw it not, and were no Strangers to his former Life: that it occasioned a resort of some that had a desire to satisfy their curiosity, by the sight of this unexpected reformation, especially the Commissioners of the Revenue, who had not long since committed him, and are in some doubt whether they shall believe their own Eyes or no: the chief of these Commissioners meeting Major Clancie at his constant, and never failling place, and hour of Devotion; invites him to his House, where his welcome was evidenced by the cheerfulness in each one's countenance, both of Men, and Women; the Major's carriage more and more confirming all men in an opinion of his constant resolution, never to swerve from his pious Intentions: having no other reparation to make for his many and great Transgressions, than for ever to shun all occasions of temptation, left his frailty might be wrought upon. These and many such like expressions of his, at all times, and in all Companies, had so firmly fixed the opinion of his Hearers, in an assurance of his reality; that there needeth no further testimony; or trial.  
§ This Commissioner (Mr. Fanning) was so taken with the Company and conversation of Major Clancie, that he could not be one meal without him, and in a token of his extraordinary satisfaction, desired him to command his Trunks to be brought thither▪ and that he himself would remove his quarter; to that House where he should have the absolute Command of all. The Major returned him hearty thanks, accepted his very kind Offer; and immediately came with his retinue to Mr. Fannings House; where he has so insinuated himself, as well with Master, Mistress, and Servants, that there is no man commands more. In so much that what ever he will have done by the Servants is obeyed, and approved of by the Master.  
§ This Gentleman Mr. Fanning being upon a Purchase of a parcel of Land, from one Mr. Obryen in the County of Clare; had appointed a meeting at Mr. Obreyens' House, upon such a day, to conclude the Bargain by paying one hundred pounds, as an earnest penny, there to sign, and seal according to agreement: in order to which they prepare of all sides; Mr. Fanning for his Journey thither, and Mr. Obrien for his reception. Mr. Fanning in his way, after having ordered his servant to follow him with the hundred Pound to Mr. Obryen's House it is still to be observed, that the great intimacy, or rather the great fondness that Mr. Fanning has of Major Clancie, must needs engage him to make one at this meeting, without whose presence there can be no satisfaction to Mr. Fanning) As they ride along, each one entertained with their several distinct thoughts, Major Clancie observing the man that had orders to follow with the hundred Pounds was not come up to the Company; slackens his pace, and waits for him, being prepared with a coulorable, plausible Story: with which he acosts the Servant, telling him how angry and impatient Mr. Fanning was for his long stay: whereupon he sent me back with orders for your return to Limerick, with all the speed you can make (though you were forced to take a fresh Hore) there you are to go into his Closet, where you shall find behind the right hand leaf of the Window, in a piece of paper rolled up twenty Pounds in Gold: which he intended to bring in his own Pocket to give to Mr. Obryen: you are likewise to deliver me the hundred Pounds to lighten your Carriage, that you may come the sooner to Mr. Obryens' House, where your Master, and we all expect you; this requires haste, which your Master commands you by me.  
§. The Servant not questioning the matter farther, being very well satisfied that all is real, and true that comes from the Major, whose interest in Mr. Fanning was well known to all the Servants; particularly this very Person; delivers him the hundred Pounds, rides back to Limerick as hard as he could drive, gets one of his Fellow-Servants to make ready another Horse; while he goes up stairs to finish what he comes about. But when he came to the Closet and found the Door shut, and Locked, he was at his Wit's end; not knowing what to do, whether to break open the Closet-door, or go back without the money: at last after many Changes in his resolutions, and apprehending that the want of this money (for aught he knew, might break off the Bargain with Mr. Obryen which he so often heard his Master commend, resolves to break open the Door, which he could not easily do without some help; goes to the Window, searches every paper, and every corner ten times over: but could find no Gold, which put the poor innocent Fellow into such a consternation, that he falls a cursing of both Master and Major, so vehemently that he was troublesome to all the House: till in the end his Mistress was forced to use her power to quiet him, who was not a little troubled to see her man in this disorder, her Husband's Closet-door broken, all his Papers tossed most confoundedly. Then to think of her Husband's disappointment put her into some disorders too.  
§. The Fellow runs down stairs like a Bedlam, rides whip and spur into Twomond, to Mr. Obryens' House; where he finds his Master full of strange apprehensions for his long Stay, sometimes pacified by Mr. Obryen, telling him that his nonpaiment of the hundred Pounds should be of no prejudice to him in his Bargain; but when the poor distracted Fellow, almost weary of his Life, appeared, and his Master asked him what the Devil ailed him to stay thus long: put the Fellow into such a rage, that he hardly gave his master leave to speak, but very snappishly answers him thus: Sir you may very well ask me what the Devil ailed me, for sure enough it is the Devil, or I had never been tormented thus, upon so little ground, or reprehended thus only for obeying: having done nothing but by your own orders, brought me upon the high way by Major Clancie: commanding me to make all possible haste back again to Limerick, there to go into the Closet: where I should find behind the Right-hand leaf of the Window, in a piece of Paper, twenty pieces of old Gold, which you intended to bring in your Pocket to give Mr. Obryen; which I did accordingly, and when I came thither, found the Closet Door locked, which I was forced to break open, and after long painful Search, not only in the window, but in every corner, where I saw but a piece of Paper; thinking it might be that I came for, till wearied off my Legs, I quitted the Search, and followed you hither; to give you this Account; at which Mr. Fanning was astonished, believing his Man to be Drunk, or out of his Senses; having in all the Discourse made no mention of the hundred pound; whereupon, he asked him if he were not Drunk, or Mad and possessed with the Devil in good earnest? Or what else made him talk of a Closet, and a Window, and of twenty pounds of Old Gold; of Mr. Obryen and Major Clancie? Sure thou art Raving? But where is my hundred pounds, which should have been now given to Mr. Obryen, and was this Morning delivered you to be brought hither for that purpose? Truly Sir, said he, I gave it Major Clancie according to the Orders he then brought me. But says Mr. Fanning, where is the Major with the money? How can I tell Sir, that never saw him since? but sure I am my Heart is broke. Thy Heart broke, you Villain, where is my money? To which he could have no other Answer, but that the Major had it; who it seems is gone about his own Affairs.  
§. The whole Company are now put to Silence at the suddenness and strangeness of this Accident. Mr. Fanning not believing there could be so much Ingratitude in Nature, to requite all his Kindnesses thus: the rest endeavouring to pacify him, particularly Mr. Obryen; by telling him, this should in no wise hinder him of his Bargain; and that any other time should serve for the Payment of the money as well. Mr. Fanning is absolutely bend for Revenge, vowing the Punishment of the Major to the full: the rest of the Company disperse, some laughing heartily at the seeming Artifices used by the Major, with the strangeness of his Success in all his Attempts: others more concerned for Mr. Fanning, pitied him. This was not so privately carried, but it is suddenly brought to Limerick, and many other places, where all People, from the highest to the lowest, make it the Subject of their Discourse and Pastime. Mr. Fanning, seeing there is no remedy for the present, must Arm himself with Patience, and study how he may have his Revenge, and Recover his money: sometimes he advises and consults his fellow-Commissioners, what Course is best to take, and how far the Law will warrant his proceeding in this Case. One is of Opinion, that he will but lose his time and labour in Prosecution of such a Person, that has not wherewithal to make him satisfaction. Others are of Opinion it is fit to make search, and find out the Offender, both for Example to others, and in some measure the satisfaction of Mr. Fanning; for probably though the Law will not bear the hanging of him for this Fact, yet there are punishments sufficient and warrantable. To this Opinion all agree; whereupon Mr. Fanning issues forth his Warrants into all parts for the apprehending of Major Clancie, in search of whom there is much time spent, and labour, at least half a year to little purpose; so that all begin to give over the search and Thought of him. One day it fortuned, Mr. Fanning having occasion to Travel toward the County of Cork; that a Gentleman in his Company Riding a good distance before him, observed Major Clancie coming along the Road, without Horse or Cloak, being lately come from Galloway, where he had lost at Play all he had in the World. The Gentleman Rides back to Mr. Fanning and tells him, Major Clancie is now at his Dispose, walking up that Hill. Mr. Fanning makes haste to meet him, and at first Sight, was so enraged, that he had scarce power to tell his Resentments: Yet told him sufficiently of his base, unworthy, ungrateful Carriage to one that had been so kind to him, and used him more like an only Child, than a Stranger. But now that I have you, I will make you know your Villainy. Clancie, who never wanted Impudence to make his Defence, (though in never so unjust a Cause) would needs excuse himself: but Mr. Fanning would not hear him speak, has him put on Horseback behind one of his Servants, Pinioned so fast, that he left him no hopes of Escape: and to be sure of his long looked for Prisoner, he defers his Journey to Cork, and returns to Limerick to see the Major in safety in the Dungeon, with Orders to the Jailers to use him Rigorously, where he is kept so close with such a weight of Irons, and so slender Fare, and continued in that manner so long, that he absolutely despairs ever to escape that imprisonment, till he is carried to his Grave. No Mediation or Intercession now prevails; no hopes of Comfort left; only the expectation of his Torments will soon end, with his most miserable Life, which he hourly wishes for, all that he can study or Aim at, or that his Torments will give him leave to think of is, to prepare himself for another World, where he must account for what he has done. In this now appears plainly to him the transitoryness of things, how little Comfort or conversation can be hoped for here, where there is nothing permanent; but all sublunary.  
The Jailor being the only person privy to his most secret thoughts: drawn to some pity and commiseration by the long continued Sighs and Groans of the poor and akeing-hearted Prisoner: gives him privately some Ease, by taking part of his tormenting Irons off; other times relieving him with some small Crumbs of comfortable Bits of Meat; and such like Acts of Charity: really believing his stay could not be long in his Custody: but that Death must soon ease him of his Burden. One day the Jailor coming to visit his Prisoner, asked him if there was any thing he would have done, or any Message he would have delivered to any Friend, or Relation of his, or if he had a Will to make, either by Word or Writing: if so, he was very ready and willing to do him all the Service he could. To which the Prisoner made Answer; no, only gave him thanks for that Offer of his, and his many other Kindnesses, which he doubted not, but God would reward him for; one Request I have to make, and to none but you, that is, to consider me as a Dying Man, who now wholly and solely bend my thoughts and works to make my Peace with God, in order to which, that you will not deny me your Assistance, chiefly in bringing me the Superior of the Franciscans, Father Delahyde, that I may make my Confession before my hour come; which cannot be long now, that he may be assistful to me in this great Work.  
§ The Jailor made all the hast he could, lest the Prisoner should die before he returned. Father Delahide having heard much of Major Clancie, wondered at such a Character as the jailer gave of him, pressing with so much earnestness the Reverend Father to come away in haste; who is no sooner entered the Prison, But is struck with wonder at the sight of the Major, whose durance, hardship, and Pain, reduced him to the most lamentable Spectacle in the World: nothing but Skin and Bones; his Eyes sunk, his Lips dried up, his Jawbone ready to pierce the Sin; a direct Anatomy, or perfect Ghost; with so little Breath, as he was believed would only serve for this short time of Confession: which the Major begins, having examined the whole course of his Life, from the beginning to that hour, with some uncounterfeited Zeal, so much seeming Sanctity, so strong Resolution of amendment; in case of Life (contrary to expectation) with so hearty Repentance that the Reverend Father admired him as the truest Penitent he ever met with, and having pronounced Absolution, sent presently to his Convent for a Cordial, to prolong the Major's Life if it could be, and where the Major begged his Reverence to come once a day to see him, the Father seldom stayed one hour in a day from him, for the oftener he came the better he liked the Conversation, or rather Recantation of the Major, never mentioning holy things, in which he took so much satisfaction that he believed it an acceptable and meritorious work to preserve him, and believed himself obliged to endeavour it.  
One day Father Guardian went to see Mr. Fanning and the rest of the Commissioners, who all received him with a great deal of Respect and kindness, and asked him if his Reverence had any Service to command them. He said his chief business was to see them; and withal told them where he had been, to see one of the Wonders of the World; one he believed had not his fellow in the World sor true Penitency and perfect Devotion. One of the Commissioners asked who it was, he told him it was the very Picture of sorrow and Repentance, Major Clancie. Mr. Fanning starts up, and wonders that any Man would mention him for any Good; but he had so generally abused mankind, nay those that had befriended him most, he betrayed soon.  
To which the Friar replies, how merciful God is, and how Men ought to imitate and follow his Example!  
This Subject occasioned a long Discourse, that at last wrought upon Mr. Fanning so far, as to grant Father Dallahide his Request; which was, that Major Clancie should be brought before the Commissioners, and there be heard speak for himself: Orders were sent to the Jailor to bring him. The Jailor makes Answer he may as well bring the Prison upon his Back as the Prisoner in his Bolts, that is hardly able to walk without a supporter; if he had all other freedom: whereupon he is commanded to take his Irons off, and bring him with some Soldiers to attend him. The Crowd in the Streets was so great, that the Soldiers had something to do to clear the way for this walking Ghost; who with much ado is brought before the Commissioners, who were moved to some compassion at the appearance of this lamentable Spectacle: Father Dellahide break the silence first, and turning to the Major, tells him, my Child, I have persuaded these Gentlemen to hear you; therefore what ever you have to say, speak it freely. I humbly thank your Reverence, and these worthy Gentlemen; I have not much to say, but only this, that I cannot but apprehend how I must inavoidably subject myself to the Lash of Censorious persons, who will undoubtedly reproach me with the scandalous Terms of Flattery, in repeating what I have just reason to believe, that God is well pleased with all these Gentlemen that have so justly punished and imprisoned me, whereby I come to know myself; and call to mind my many former Errors, and Transgressions so often committed, with which I might have hazarded, if not absolutely purchased, perpetual Damnation; from which, I hope that God will now defend me. Nor do I petition Life or Liberty, lest I might never be so prepared for my End: only desire so much Ease from those Tortures, that I might spend the few hours I have to live, in the Exercise of those Admonitions I have from my Ghostly Father. If I cannot obtain this, I submit with satisfaction, that some will take Example by my deserved Punishments, and amend their Lives, which I heartily wish all good Christians may do. With these and many such Expressions the Major wrought so upon all the Crowd of Hearers, that some wept for Pity, others wished it in their powers to release him; more especially Mr. Fanning, who now begins to listen to the Intercessions of Father Dallahide, and the rest of the Commissioners. In Conclusion, Mr. Fanning turns to the Friar, and tells him, Father you have wrought a great Miracle, for my own part I am glad if I have contributed any thing to it; as for those injuries I received by the Prisoner, I very freely forgive; upon the assurance that he will prove a new Man, as we have all Reason to be confident he will: I therefore bestow him upon you. Whereupon is expressed a great deal of gladness through the whole Town. The Jailor is discharged, Major Clancie is led along in Company of Father Guardian. to the Monastery, where he is received after the wont Ceremony of the place, and Orders.  
§ It is a constant custom, and an observed Rule, that no body must take upon him the Habit of St. Francis, till he first serve out a year os probation, or Novelship, which Major Clancie with all humbleness did, and is granted his Petitions; sor where he is employed, behaves himself with so much humility, that there can be no Employment, or Office so mean or servile, but he most readily undertakes: as for those Exercises of Devotion, no Man can be more punctual. Father Dallahide is so very fond of Brother Clancie, that he appoints him to lie at his Bed's feet, lest he might by Overworking after his late Imprisonment, bring himself into any Fit of sickness, that his Cordials might be in readiness at his Call. Brother Clancie is now in his Novelship, a professed Friar in the Order and Habit of St. Francis, and Chamber-Fellow to Father Guardian, who is sometimes disappointed of his Rest by that continual Exercise of Mortification practised by Brother Clancie, who every Night to torment and cool that wanton Body of his, pulls off his Habit, and rolls himself upon the cold Ground, and when ever he hears the Cock to Crow, falls a whipping his naked Body, till commanded by Father Dallahide to forbear thus rigorously to torment himself; assuring him that to preserve himself, were it but for example would do much more acceptable service to God, than to make himself away, and desired him withal, to remember how lately he came out of Prison, and how severely dealt with there, and how it brought him so low, that he could hardly crawl, and therefore would have him Cherish, and Nurse himself till he recovered his former strength. In this manner stood Affairs for some time. Brother Clancies Diligence more and more engages the Affections of all his Brother-Friers, especially Father Guardian, who seldom or never goes any where without him, chiefly when he goes to preach to his Congregation, to whom he often Declares as undeniable Truth, what had been told us by our Predecessors, in order to the Amendment of our Lives, and preservation of our Souls. Yet knowing how incident and natural 'tis to all Men, to be more taken, and give more Credit to what they see, than what they hear, I must here take leave to point out to all your Views, the wonderful and almost miraculous work of the Almighty, in the clear and perfect Reformation of one of the losest livers in the world. I hope, for your examples, as his own preservation, who had heretofore so plentifully tasted the pleasures of the World in every form Man's wishes could propose: nor did his want of Youth deprive him of hopes to continue so; yet being touched with a timely Remorse, by which the vanity of the World was made appear to him, quits all hopes of the pleasures of this World; for the poor begging habit of St. Francis; wherein he now sits at the foot of the Pulpit, at which all the People look, knocking of their hands and breasts for admiration, still listening to the Preacher; who pursues his Story, by telling them how strangely studious poor Brother Clancie is, to find out unheard of punishment; in hope thereby to make some reparation, to purchase the Pardon, and expiation of his Crime, for the transgression of his Youth. I myself that am a Friar, and a Preacher these two and thirty years, am now glad to learn new ways or Mortification of my poor Brother Clancie. Thus did this good and reverend Father continue of giving attributes of Praise to Brother Clancie, who by this time is very well versed in the several ways of both Clergy, and Laity; one thing he observed to the rule in the Monastery: not to reserve for the next Meal, (yet being dispensed with because of the War) they of that Monastery had got a little flock of money together, from their charitable Neighbours, which Brother Clancie knew of; who finding an opportunity by the absence of Father Guardian, goes to brother Spencer, who was then their Cashkeeper, and told him that Father Delahyde being with the Commissioners, they had promised to do them a very kind piece of Service, which was, to employ their own Servants to the Fair of Mollengare to buy lean Cattle for the winter Provision, and would give them Grass till they were fit to be eaten, to which end Father Delahyde sent me for that little money, to deliver to the Commissioners for that Use, Father Spencer believing all this to be true, delivers him the money, being threescore Pounds; he no sooner had it but he carries it to a private Lodging, where he puts off St. Francis' habit, puts on his other clothes, and bids adieu to his benefactor Father Delahyde, and all the rest of his dearly beloved Brother-Friers; as soon as the Guardian came in, his first enquiry was for brother Clancie, being always very tender of him, asked him how he did, and where he was?  
§ Truly says Father Spencer he eat his Dinner heartily; for my part I have not seen him since he brought me a message from you. From me a message? what do you mean by a message? for I have not seen him this day, are you sure you do not mistake? I am sure Sir he brought me your Order to deliver him over our little Stock of Money to be carried to the Commissioners, who promised to send their own Servants to the Fair of Mollengare: and there to buy lean Cattle, and that they would bestow Grass to seed them, till they were fit for us to eat. God bless us says Father Delahyde, I am afraid you are Drunk, or have lost your Senses. Should I be Drunk, that have not tasted any manner of Liquor this day? what then? what makes you talk at random thus of the Commissioners. of Mollengare-Fair, of Servants, of Lean cattle and God knows what? Sir I know no more, I do but repeat his own words, he may give you a better Account which I suppose he will do when he comes in. But have you given the money in earnest? yes truly have I. And do you not know where he is? no in good faith not I. Why▪ then I am afraid we are all undone.  
§ This last Act of the Major's to the great disappointment of the reverend Father, and the rest of his Friars, and Fellow-Sufferers, soon spread up and down the Town, that it came to the Hearing of the Commissioners, who next day came to see his Reverence, and condole his great Loss. Mr. Flanning begins to inquire for Brother Clancie, that Example of Humility, that Pattern of Penitence: enlarging so upon that Subject till Father Delahyde much out of countenance, begged him not to torment Him with those reproachful Sentences, and Repetitions of his irrecoverable Loss; and believe this was sent for their Punishment, and Trial of Patience, who have no remedy, but Leave it to God. Father Spencer standing by, and hearing him say he would leave it to God; being troubled, replies there should be no search for Clancie, leave it to God, and if this wicked Fellow comes with one tear of Repentance, God will forgive him. But what shall we do in the mean time for Meat? at this the People fell all a Laughing, till the Company parted, each one to his Home entertaining their Selves, and Friends with those Passages formerly repeated.   

CHAP. IU.  
MR. Clancie concieus it not safe for him to make any stay in them Parts, where he had so lately played so many Pranks, and had incensed so many Persons of Quality; who would undoubtedly have apprehended him, were it but only in revenge of poor Father Delahyde, injured so: believing Limerick too hot a place for him, to take his Journey toward the County of Keary a place he never had been in before, there makes his inquiry as well of Names of Places, as the Inhabitants, and having thoroughly informed Himself in every particular, he likewise inquires who those People were that lived in the Wood, and upon the Mountains, and what shift they could make for their Livelihood, and Subsistance?  
§ Answer was made him that most of them were Gentlemen of good Rank, Men of great Courage, and Resolution, put now to so much Hardship, that unavoidably they must be very Burdensome to the Country, troublesome enough to the Neighbouring Garrisons, having no Pay or other ways to live but what they must take by force from their Enemies, their Friends not daring to relieve them. He farther inquires which was the next Garrison, and who commanded there? it was told him that Cork was the next; the Governors own Name he knew not. Pray do you know any of the gentlemen's Names that live near Cork? can I have admittance into the City? yes Sir, I know Mr. Ocallechan, and several others that pay Contribution. After this Information the Major goes toward Cork, to a Gentleman's House with whom he had some small acquaintance; who bids him very welcome, and gave him good entertainment, which the Major makes this Use of, and tells him that the occasion of his coming thither was to make Use of his kindness, in a Business he was very confident would be very acceptable to all Men, and injurious to none: whereupon the Gentleman of the House promises to do him all Service. Why then Sir my request is, That you will do me the favour as go to the Governor of Cork, and tell him that I am a Person that have a small Command amongst those Gentlemen that cannot but be troublesome to him, and his Quarters; and if he will give me good conditions, in order to my Transport, and those under my Command, I will wait upon him, provided he first send me a safe Conduct by you. The Gentleman of the house was very glad of the occasion; believing it a very welcome Message, goes next morning to the Governor: who kindly thanked him, and immediately gives him a safe Conduct for Captain Clancie, and desires him to bring the Captain to his House, and to assure him he should have good conditions, and shall be very punctually performed. The Gentleman returns to the Captain with this account, who without delay comes to the Governors' House in Cork: where he is most nobly feasted, his company very pleasing to all: no sooner Dinner was done, but Captain Clancie desired a private conference with the Governor, where he reasoned the matter, so signifying how resolute all his party were, and absolutely resolved to revenge their selves, in case of no relief: such of them as had not the intention with Captain Clancie, who likewise told him how necessary he would be in this case; whereupon the Governor desired him to know what conditions would satisfy him? Sir I would not willingly be counted unreasonable to a Person so obligingly civil as yourself. I would have a safe and free Quarter for my Men and Horses during our stay here, a good Ship well Manned, and Victualled, to transport us to our Harbour beyond Sea, with some money in our Purses to serve us upon our arrival, which I will leave to your discretion.  
§ Truly Captain I can but commend your care of your men; nor do I find so much of unreasonableness in your Demand, and to dispute any farther, but grant all you desire; all which was presently reduced into Writing, signed by the Governor, and delivered the Major, who no sooner finished his compliment to the Ladies, but he takes his leave of the Governor, and those Officers with him, goes along with his Friend in whose House he had lain some nights before, and from thence to the Mountains: where he was very well known to a great many there, begins to wonder at their manner of living, without Meat, without Drink, without Lodging. Some answered though their Fare was bad, yet their Cause was good, and others answer, would God for all the goodness of our Cause, we knew where to eat and drink one hearty good Meal; to which Clancie makes answer thus: Gentlemen I must confess I pity you. Pity us? a plague take your pity, could you help us to some Meat. I do assure you Gentlemen if you would be but ruled by me, I would soon help you to Meat, and Drink enough. They all that were there present resolved, and vowed to observe him, and his orders in what ever he would command them, (provided they law a provision made for them with any manner of safety) ho told them that if they would but own him for their Captain, he would warrant with his life to provide for them as he promised, to which another makes Answer He liked the motion well enough, if he knew how to believe Clancie: with whom he had been well acquainted before; whereupon Clancie, to remove that Doubt, produces the Articles he had made with the Governor of Cork. Upon sight of which to the number of threescore and ten of them, call him Captain, and march along with him through the Country very safely, being every where much made of, a far pleasanter, and sweeter way of living than on the Mountains. Thus they march to the gates of Cork, where they are received, and provided for by the Governor: who presently upon their Arrival appoints each one his Quarter, where they are to stay till the Wind serve: there being no other Let, the ship being in readiness, and the money that was articled for, paid to the Captain.  
§ Soon after this the wind served fair for their Voyage, the Governor sees all clear, and aboard, waits upon Captain Clancie, wishing him a good Passage. The Captain having civility returned his thanks, set Sail, of whom we hear no more, till his Coming with his Troop into Flanders. Where some of them asked him for the share of their Money given him by the Governor of Cork for theirs Use? He told them that what money was given him was for his own Use, and not theirs. But they not satisfied with this Answer, resolved to have it out of his bones, and threatened him, so that he was glad to get from them by stealth, and leave his Troop to shift for their Living, who not knowing where to follow, dispersed several ways to seek their Fortunes apart.   

CHAP. V.  
THe Major is by this time got into a remotest part of the Country, where he had intelligence of a very Fair, and Rich Widow, to whom he resolves to make his address: having for Excuse (of his presumption of coming with such an intention to a person of that Quality, in so mean an equipage, and so slenderly attened) the distress of his Country, well known to most Nations; which he begs her Ladyship to consider, and not to look upon him as mean, though peradventure his Habit, and retinue might speak him so, which she should find upon enquiry.  
§ The Lady with a great deal of modesty gave him thanks for his large expressions, and told him withal, it was not her business to inquire after any man's Fortune, especially having neither intention or inclination to change her condition, which she desired might serve for an answer: not that she misbelieved what he had said, or ever intended to question though matter, only that she knew not how to be rude to any Man; and that at present she had some occasions called her away. This he took for an Encouragement to come again, which he often did without Invitation. One day meeting with some of his Acquaintance of the Gentry of Ireland; he imparts this Secret, by which he questions not, but to be shortly enabled to relieve them from their necessitous condition, and put himself into a very splended posture. This relished so well, that these Gentlemen asked if they or any of them by their attendance upon his Person, or any other way could be serviceable to him in this affair? he told that was not it, but the only thing he wanted to carry on this design, was so much money as would furnish him with some Apparel; that he might not always appear in one Dress.  
§ Truly say they our stock you know can not be great, yet howsoever we will divide with you upon such an occasion as this, that cannot be every where had. He engages that they shall never have cause to repent this kindness. They encourage him to proceed, having already made so fair a progress, they make up forty pound between them; which they very cheerfully gave him. He no sooner had it, but he forthwith quits his Matter, leaves his Lodging undischarged, and his Friends strangely disappointed of this great Expectation; crosses the Country, and comes into England: so to London. Where at a place called Nells Ordinary, to which there was great resort to, which there came two Strangers that discoursing of their Travels, one of them asked his Friend, if he knew of any that he could confide in, now I am going into France; and have some money which I would willingly put into the hands of a Friend, that would be just to, and save me the Trouble of Exchange; his Comrade told him he would inquire, and was sure he could not miss of many that would be glad of the occasion.  
§ Major Clancie having heard the discourse as soon as Dinner was done, and Reckoning paid, called for some Wine to entertain his Friends: to which he invites these two Strangers, to whom he had made himself so known: that before they parted he contracted such a Friendship, as if they had been of long acquaintance: insomuch that they were sworn Brothers. They had not spent many hours in this new purchassed Brotherhood, when he told him, Brother, if I am not mistaken I heard you wish for a Friend that would be true to you, and could help you to your money upon your Arrival in Paris. If that be a Service to you, I am sure I can help you; for there is a noble Person there, that has a considerable sum of money in his hands, that shall pay you upon sight of my Bill.  
This the Earl of Insiquin, a Man very well known to be Responsable and just, and if you please to make a farther enquiry as 'tis sit you should, you will find this true. The Gentleman hearing the name of Insiquin believing the thing without any more ado, and told the Major he had two hundred Pounds, one he would carry about him, the other he should have: whereupon the Major draws his bill with a very careful earnest Letter of credence, with which the Gentleman was very well satisfied, and delivered the money, when the Reckoning was paid: The Company parted; The Major about his affairs, the Gentleman to prepare for his Journey.  
§ How that he is gladly eased of the burden of his money, into so good a Hand, who no sooner Arrives at Paris, but comes to my Lord of Insiquin, delivers his Bill, and Letter. My Lord seeing the name of Clancie: could hardly contain himself from laughing. So that he was forced to make an Apology, by telling the Gentleman that the many former stories that he had heard, and known of Major Clancie: being brought fresh by this Bill, and Letter into his memory, was the cause he could not forbear laughing; and withal told the Gentleman how sorry he was that any Gentleman should fall into the Hands of such a known Cheat, and for his part he never had money of Clancies in his Life, and that withal his heart he pitied the Gentleman: not knowing how to advise him for the recovery of his money, other then to make what haste he could back again to London. where probably he might find Major Clancie before all the money were spent. This was such a sudden surprise to the Gentleman, so contrary to his expectation, that he neither knew what to say or do: stood stock still like an Image, or Statue without Lfe, or Motion. But upon second thoughts, and serious consideration, he resolves to take my Lord's advice; this being a Business could admit of no long deliberation.  
§ And after a very little rest and some small repast, he takes post, and rides back to London, where he finds the Major that dreamed not of his return in the least, and rising suddenly from the Company to welcome his Brother, meets half a dozen Baliffs, that handled him very roughly. The Gentleman hearing him call Brother, answers him with a curse, a plague take all such Kindred: in brief, the Major is carried to Prison, without making restitution of any money, having little or no●e about him; Where he had not been above ten days, but he makes love to the Marshals only Daughter, with some success: so much as gave him admittance, and opportunity to make his pitied Passion known; he had a familiar acquaintance with the Daughter of the Great Earl of Twomond. To whom he takes the liberty to signify by Letter the State of his condition as a Prisoner, without hopes of redemption: desiring her Ladyship with much earnestness to continue still his Friend; to whom he had a very humble request. Which was, that She would command her Chaplain to come to the Prison, and hear his Confession▪ this request He hoped She would not deny him, it being the great concern of his Soul; The Lady did so. The Chaplain puts on his Disguise, and came to the Prison, where he was carried to a private Room. The doo● being shut close, he begins to tell the Major by whose command he came, and desired him to consider how he, and all those of his Function were persecuted; and that he could not stay long, and doubted not but he was prepared:  
§ Sir (says the Major) I know it very well, and shall not keep you long, my Confession is but short: I know what you have said to be very true that you are a Priest, my Confession is that I want money, which you can and must supply before you leave this pIace; or I will Inform against you. The Chaplain was so startled at this Confession, knew not what defence ●o make, finding all his arguments fruitless: at last was forced to give the Major all the money he had; being twenty Broad Pieces, and his Bond for thirty more to be paid at the day agreed upon. The Chaplain goes home to his Lady, like a distracted man, to whom he tells what befell him, Imputeing the blame of his misfortune to her Ladyship, at whose Entreaty and Command he undertook that unfortunate Journey.  
§ The Lady very much troubled conceiving herself the absolute occasion of this Disaster; knew no way to repair this injury but by paying the Twenty Pounds, and ingageing for the Thirty, which She immediately did.  
During the time of the Major's Imprisonment, there chanced to come into England, one Sutton commonly called Duke of Northumberland, the pretended Heir of the Lord Dudley of Dudley-Castle; who then had a Relation in Town, who he often visited at his house, where he was sometimes entertained with Stories of Major Clancie, with which the Duke was so taken, that he acquainted the French Ambassador with, whereupon, this Gentleman and Friend to the Duke, was invited by the Ambassador to Dinner, where he was desired to satisfy that Company with some account of Major Clancies Life, of whom the Ambassador had heard so much, which the Gentleman did, with so much satisfaction seemingly to all the Company, more especially the Ambassador's Secretary, who longed for nothing so much as the sight of this Major that was the Author of all this Discourse, so that when Dinner was done, the Secretary takes one of his Matters Coaches, and some Footmen along, and having found after some inquiry, where the Major's Habitation was, makes him a Visit to the Marshal's House, where he was Prisoner: The Major receives him with all the kindnesses that could be, and entertained him so plentifully, that the Secretary could not choose but wonder to see with what Decent order he was served, upon the sudden: as if he had expected him; and a preparation made purposely for his Reception. Yet there could nothing be so satisfactory as the freedom of Discourse with which the Secretary was so taken, that he resolved to come often to see him, with intention to do him Service. Thus they entertained each other for that Afternoon, and at parting, used so much Courtship and Ceremonies, as made the Marshal believe there must be a great deal of Intimacy and Friendship between them.  
§ The Secretary is no sooner gone, but the Major, who seldom, or never wanted wherewithal, to put a good Gloss upon an ill Cause, and resolving to make some Use of this Visit, puts himself into the Posture of the most unfortunate Creature in the World; and Acted that part so well, that all the People there present, were very much concerned; though they knew nothing of the Cause: chiefly the Master of the House, who with a great deal of Earnestness pressed to know the occasion of this so great and sudden a Change? To which the Major makes Answer thus, I know you cannot but wonder at me, that am indeed the wonder of the World for misfortune: so misfortunate that if you knew my Condition, I doubt you would not Relieve me, though your Charity might point you to things of greater difficulty. Yet for your satisfaction, I will not conceal from your Knowledge, the true State of my Case. When I was in France last, I did Article with the King, that I would bring hIm out of Ireland, a Regiment consisting of two thousand Men. On this depended my Fortune, now crossed by this cursed Imprisonment. The French Ambassador not knowing any thing of my Restraint, and much wondering why I did not go with my Capitulation, sends his chief Secretary to know the Reason why I came not at him, that he might move all Objections, either with the Protector or elsewhere; that gave intterruption to this Design. Now you know the cause of my Distraction and Trouble, then judge if I have not reason to be so, to see the neck of my hopes broke by this restraint; where I cannot promise myself so much Liberty, as would give me time to finish my Business with the French Ambassador.  
§. All that heard him, could not choose but be concerned for him, especially his Mistress, the Jailers only Daughter; who now made Use of her Interest with her Father: alleging such Reasons and Arguments of pity, in behalf of the Major, whole future Happiness depended wholly upon this so considerable Employment, as the Command of so many Men, by which it was not unlikely, but he might in little time be enabled to procure his Liberty, and make large Returns for the Favour should be conferred upon him; and what pity it was that a Person of that Honour and Quality, should be thus restrained now in his Distress: The Father considering with great Attention the words of his dear Child, with how much reason spoke, and she was concerned; tells her how sorry he was that it lay not in his power to redeem and free him from all his trouble, being a person for whom he ever had a very great Respect: and whose generous and free good Nature, was well known to him, seeing the Ambassadors Secretary come to him in such an Equipage, made him believe all to be very true; whereupon he calls the Major to him to acquaint him with what the Daughter had said; and how heartily she pleaded for him, which indeed had wrought so much upon the good Man, he desired the Major to be very free with him; and let him know wherein or which way he could serve him, and he should find him a real true Friend. The Major returns him most hearty Thanks, with an assurance of that his Gratitude should speak itself; so as what ever kindness was done him now in his greatest necessity, should not be counted lost. Telling wit● all, how that the French Ambassadors Secretary told him how requisite his presence would be to go along with the Ambassador to the Protector, in Order to settle a course for the Raising of his Regiment in Ireland; and when that was done, he was to receive a very considerable sum of money, out of which he would not fail to pay that sum for which he lay in Prison, and plentifully reward the many kindnesses he had received there; and in Order to the effecting of all this, he desired no more, but that the Marshal would be so kind as to let him go to the Ambassador once a day, and take his own Parole for his Return at Night. The Marshal told him it was not usually practised to set a Prisoner at Liberty without Bail.  
Yet that the consideration of so pressing and weighty an Occasion, with the mediation of his Child to whom he could deny nothing, had persuaded so far with him, that he should have his Request, not doubting but the Major would be so just to him as not to fail that expectation of coming in every Night till his Capitulations was finished: by which he hoped to see him free from that and all his other troubles, which the Major moved to do, by all that was dear to him in this and the World to come. He now at Liberty to go every day about his own affairs, and follow his own Inventions; comes in every Night very punctually, nor can he all this time omit the least opportunity of making his address to his Mistress the Marshals Daughter: who by this time is so wrought upon by those his many Passionate expressions, that she resolves to grant him all his desires, provided he first give her as an assurance of his constancy: that irremoveable Pledge, and engagement of marriage, which the Major did not often deny any for, whereupon they both consent for many reasons to have it done with as much Privacy as could be, sirst, because it suited not so well as affairs stood with him, to have the Marriage, which the Major did Publicly; and next by reason She never consulted Father, Mother, or Friend; so that it is agreed they both must meet in a secret remote part of the Town; with very few Witnesses, the Thursday following, where all things were solemnised, to the unspeakable satisfaction of both; after which home they come; each their several way without the least suspicion, where they have leisure, sufficient conveniency to meet, and advise as oft as they please, one day the Major being in Company with some of his own Crew, notice was given him how that his Creditor was informed of his liberty, and that it was intended the Marshal should be called to an account for it, and that a course would soon be taken to restrain him, is not very speedily prevented: he no sooner comes to his hour of Loanliness and privacy with his Wife: but he acquaints her with the design, telling her with all what his apprehensions were, and that he knew no way so safe for the preservation of his liberty from the Malice and Prosecution of his Prosecuting Creditors, as for them both to be gone into some place of safety out of the reach of his enemies. Though he scarce knew how to effect this without her help, by reason of the scarcity of Money, occasioned by those several misfortunes that lately befell him, especially his last Imprisonment. To which She makes answer that She had so absolutely settled her heart and affections upon him, that She will never decline or forsake him: But will with cheerfulness go with him into any part of the World he pleases, so She may enjoy him, and bear a snare as well in his Sufferings as his Plenty: and as for his present supply, She knew of some Gold her Mother had in a drawer, in the bottom of a Trunk of Linen, to which She had admittance at her Pleasure; and it should go very hard but She would bring him this Gold to any place, and at what time he should appoint with this he was overjoyed, signifying by all he could say or do, the great sense he had in his own Happiness in Her, which he would not change for the Empire of the whole World. This mutual satisfaction was sealed with a kiss, the hour of meeting at Gravesend apdointed; he goes abroad about his Affairs, and She about her Design, which She affected that very Afternoon.  
§ Her Father and Mother being gone as far as Hamstead, and leaving Her as their chief Trustee to oversee, and have care of all their concerns at Home, which She was not unmindful of; for assoon as their backs were turned, She went to the Trunk having the key in Her own custody, so as She could meet with no Difficulty till She came to the Drawer; with which She was forced to spend some time; and use some Art before She could break it open, which She at last overcame, with as little noise as She could. Where She found two small purses with a Hundred broad pieces of Gold in each, and having put the Gold into her pocket, closes up every thing in as good order as She could, or her haste would suffer her, and so takes her leave of London for some time: away She marches to Gravesend; where She met her most dearly beloved Joy, to whom She delivered this most welcome present, She thought it not convenient to make any long stay there; for fear of some pursuit, and therefore made all possible haste into the low Countries, where they spent their time merrily as long as their stock lasted. He finding the Purses were grown very light, and his expense very great, resolves to put her to the Trial of Wits, if not out of her Wits, by sending her back to her fond Father and Mother, presuming her presence might reconcile them to their Darling in order to the separation, he makes her believe his resolution is to go into Flanders; where he has great hopes of such a Fortune as would make them live happily together for ever after▪ She not being in condition to Travel being with Child, to this part of his will She knew not well what answer to make, being overcome with grief, to think of leaving him, a thing so contrary to his promise, and so averse to her Nature; that she would undoubtedly rather choose to leave the World, than him: but since it was his pleasure to have have it so, and that there was no remedy She would obey him in this, as in all things else: away She came into England, so to London; where I must leave Her to make use of what Interest She has in Friends to procure her Pardon, and persuade a reconciliation in which they meet with much difficulty.  
§ Till at last her Father being moved with several considerations of her being deluded by that false Villain Clancie, whose insinuating Snares the Father himself could not escape: then She ever having been the fondest and most dutiful Child in the World; upon whom he had placed all his Comfort and Consolation; now returned home in her rags like a Beggar; and which was worse, great with Child, and very near her time: he takes Her in his Arms, washed her cheeks with his Tears; gives her the same command She had before her misfortune; at which the Mother was overjoyed.   

CHAP. VI  
Mayor Clancie having turned off his Wife, is now at liberty, free from any apprehension of Danger or Imprisonment, travels into Italy, Arrives at a place called VIENA. where he is put to his Wit's end for money, he privately calls his Servants to him, giveth them Orders that when he called any of them by their Christianed names, they should be sure to answer him my Lord, as if he had been one in disguise, and would not have it known that he was so. They being very well versed in his ways knowing he was designing some tricks to get money; withal observed him very punctually, and seemingly in so much that the Master of the House taking great notice of this, invites the Major's Servants to an evening repast, with intention to inform himself of the quality, and true Title of his new Guest: to this purpose he Feasts them, and at the Feast drinks himself and them into such a pitch, as that neither of them could say much; however he made a shift to let them know the desire he had to be informed of them the true Title of their Master's quality, having often overheard them call him Lord, & he being apprehensive that through his Ignorance he might abridge his Honour, made it his request to them to inform him. One of them told him that he had been so obliegingly civil to them, he for his own part knew not how to deny him any thing: provided he would be secret in a thing that would do them much prejudice to discourse it, being contrary to the command of their Master, and him no good; they knew not why, and that although his quality was far above what he now seemed to be, yet he for some reasons best known to himself, not fit for them to pry into; commanded their Secrecy, which they would never have violated without the same promise of Secrecy from him, and withal desired that this might serve to satisfy his curiosity, and ask no more questions of particular relating to that: and for fear of any discovery, to be sure to use the same freedom as hitherto. All which the Master of the House promised he would be very careful to observe in every respect.  
§ One day as the Major and his Landlord sat at dinner, there chanced to pass by the Door a great many Horsemen attending upon some great Gentleman, they knew not who till one of the Horsemen, having formerly lodged in that house, steps to the Door to inquire how his Friends there did, the Master of the House very heartily welcomed him, the Gentleman made no stay: the Master returns to his Dinner, and the Major being one of the inquisitive asks who that was, that was so kind as upon his first coming to visit your House, to which the Master made answer, that this Gentleman Signior Gerardo had been a long time lodged in his House, and that all his Life-time he never lodged a Worthier Person, or a Braver Man; nor did he ever know any Man more generally beloved, and now coming to Town with the Prince of Tuskaine, to whom he was a Servant, would not defer that visit. Truly says the Major I cannot but commend Him for it, and could wish for an opportunity to be known to a Person of so much Worth as you describe, and as he seems to be, and should take it for a great kindness, if you would let him know so much. I may do it with ease replies the Master; for I am to see him this night by appointment, where I shall not fail to observe your command.  
§ The hour being come the Master went to see his Friend Gerardo, who received him with all the kindness that could be, and after having exchanged their ceremonies of Joy to see each other: the Master tells him of a request he had, that could admit of no denial; and in the end he should find it no disservice to himself. Mr. Gerardo desires to know what request this was that should need so great a preamble; you knowing very well you may command me. Why then says the Master, there is a Gentleman that now lodges in my House, who upon some discourse of you, desired me to bring you acquainted; let me assure you, you will not think your time ill bestowed in his Company; he is a Stranger in these Parts, and I believe of far greater quality then either his Equipage, or Attendance speaks him: but is of a very Noble, and generous Spirit, a free hearted Man and of Good, and very pleasing conversation as ever you knew: this acquaintance (replies Segnier Gerardo) must needs be of greater advantage to me then to t●e Gentleman; and should sooner sue for it: but since it happens thus, I will with much willingness give him my attendance to morrow about Midday: for we must part by reason of some business that calls upon me, being but newly come, and not knowing what our stay may be. The Master comes home to his House, gives this account to the Major his Dear Guest; who gives him many thanks, and desires him to prepare for Signior Garardo again that time of the day, which was done accordingly.  
§ Next day these met in the Major's Chamber, where they were very plentifully entertained, when the Major and his new acquaintance grew to such an intimacy, as no Brothers could be dearer. After dinner the Major takes Gerardo into his Closet, and there discourses with him of the times, and asked him if he had lately heard any thing of the King of England, or if he knew any one of that Court, to which Gerardo makes answer how impossible it was to conceal from the World the usage of the King of England, and for his part he had no knowledge of particulars, or any acquaintance with any of that Court: but had heard very much of the constancy, Loyalty, and fidelity of the Lord of Ormond in all places, and in all Companies: but more especially from his own Master, who often gives that noble Person such Characters as were not to be paralleled. The Major, as if struck dumb at the very mentioning of that Name, was silenced for so long time; which Gerardo perceiving the suddainness of his change, and seeing him more concerned than ordinary; took the liberty to ask him if he were not of some near Relation to that Noble Man: to which the Major males this reply, Sir the description given by my Landlord of your worth, and the great confirmation I find in yourself, denies me the power to conceal from your knowledge my Relation, with what else I have to impart. I must first entreat your secrecy, and then the constancy of that Friendship you were pleased to profess to me, with this assurance that I shall ever make it my study to requite kindnesses of this Nature. I must confess myself, that Person, though probably not deserving the Characters that had been given: and now returning to my Master, am a little pinched, and therefore must entreat you to acquaint the Prince, that I beg it as a favour he will not give Himsef the trouble to see me, nor so much as take notice of my being here; or take it ill that I cannot wait upon him, other then by you that are his Servant, and my best Friend. I shall not name what sum to carry me home, other than what can be spared with conveniency. This I must earnestly entreat you to keep to yourself from all Men, but the Prince; not doubting but I may be in condition to requite your kind care, as becomes me. I must further desire that you make no discovery by any chance, or distance while we are together; but believe me to be your real Friend; or I should not have used this freedom.  
§ Gerardo being strangely surprised, begged his Lordship's pardon for these errors his ignorance had led him into, which he would endeavour to repair by this faithfulness in what Service his Lordship had now commanded him, in which he knew he should be very successful, knowing the temper of his Master, and particular respect he had for his Lordship; of all which he should suddenly have an account. Whereupon Gerardo takes his leave, goes to the Prince, and engages him to secrecy: before he would discover, or let him know any thing. The Prince wondering what should be the cause of all this Pother, and being very desirous to know what the matter was, and knowing very well that Gerardo was a stayed sober Man; must needs have some strange thing to acquaint him with, which makes the Prince promise him as much of privacy as he can desire. Whereupon Gerardo told him all, how that my Lord of Ormond was in Town in Disguise, and how he came to know it, and what discourse passed between my Lord of Ormond and him, and what my Lord had given him in command to acquaint his Highness with, in order to a supply of some money for this occasion; and that his Highness would much oblige him in not taking any notice of his being in the Country, and that as soon as his Lordship came to the King, his Highness should be sure to hear from him with all acknowledgements imaginable.  
§ The Prince was so surprised at this relation that he started at it, and asked Gerardo if my Lord would not give him leave to wait upon him privately, as for any thing else he desired, he should most willingly command it: in order thereunto he commands Gerardo to go back to my Lord and carry him three hundred Pounds, and bid him tell my Lord he shall have as much more as he pleases, and that there was not that thing in the World within the compass or reach of the Prince but he should command; and that, the only trouble the Prince had at this time is, that his Lordship forbids him to see him: there being nothing he coveted or longed more for then the opportunity to contract a real Friendship with his Lordship. But since it appears to be his pleasure not to be seen he will obey, only attend his Lordship in his wishes.  
§ Gerardo returns to the supposed Lord of Ormond, who receives him with a great deal of cheerfulness, and large promises of reward; engaging him by all the indearing terms that can be, to express to the Prince how feelingly sensible he is of this great favour thus seasonably placed upon him: which Gerardo promises to perform very effectually, Gerardo takes his leave; the Master of the House appears with a sad countenance to think of parting with the best Guest that ever he had; the Major having paid all his scores, and with an open hand distributed to the people, presents the Master and Mistress of the House very largely, designing thereby to raise the report and continue the belief of his greatness. At his going to Horse he threw money to the standers by, being his custom so to do when his purse was full; which by some was construed to be more for ostentation, than devotion.  
§ He now abounds in plenty, so that he resolves to deny himself nothing his fancy can propose, sometimes his inclination leads him to the Wars, where he behaves Himself like a Person of a clear courage; and an undaunted resolution: in places of greatest danger he is sure to be one of the first, either in charging the Enemy, or making an Attack, of which there is so much notice taken; as also of his free, and unlimited way of expense, that in little time he acquires a great Reputation, and a general good opinion of all his acquaintance: at another season of the year he retires, and makes his abode in some City, where he courts all occasions to show his generous disposition: so that his company is coveted by all. Thus he spends some years abroad till he understood by his correspondent in London, how that his last Wife, being received into her Father and Mother's bosom, died in Childbirth; which was some encouragement for his coming thither, if there was no other rub in his way.   

CHAP. VI  
THe Major by this time is thoroughly assured, that the King will soon come into England, to the unspeakable satisfaction of his people, of which number he accounts himself one, and therefore resolves for London, to join in that great Congratulation where he soon arrives in a very splended and flourishing condition; richly aparreled, and very well attended: he comes one day to a Merchant's House, as if it were by chance (though indeed it was a contrivance) to carry on another Design, with intention to take some Lodgings; which the Merchant seemed willing to accommodate: shows him the prime part, and best furnished Rooms in his House which the Major could not mislike; but was so well pleased with the several conveniences, that he refers to his new Landlord, what Rent he should pay for so many Rooms, as he shall have occasion for by the year; pretending that all his servants were not yet come from beyond the Seas, and having made an Agreement, inquires if the Master of the house be Widower or Bachelor, to which the Merchant Answers, Sir my wife will wait upon you presently. The Mrs. appears, having been all this while making herself as fine as she could, and preparing a Banquet to entertain her new Guest. Her husband Ushers her into the Room where the Major was, who is hugely pleased that fortune is so good, to light upon such a place, and in the dispose of so worthy a couple; during their Discourse the Banquet was brought up, and set on the Table where there was nothing wanting that could be thought requisite for such an entertainment.  
The Major asked the Merchant if he knew Sir William Rider? the Merchant told him that he knew Sir William Rider to be a very worthy honest Man; and very Rich. The Major likewise asked him if he knew Sir William's Factor, in such a Country? The Merchant told him he did. The Major again asked him if he knew the Factor's hand-writing? To which the Merchant replied very well: and that he had been long acquainted with it, having many time's occasion of Correspondency: whereupon the Major draws out of his Pocket a Bill of Exchange upon Sir William Rider, from his ●actor, with a Letter of credence, for five hundred pounds; which the Merchant no sooner saw, but he assured him it was as good money as any he had about him, and that it would be paid as soon as called for: why then says the Major, pray keep the Bill of Exchange, and the Letter, and let me have a hundred pieces for my pocket money, till there is occasion for the rest; which the Merchant immediately brought him; and told him he should command more at his Pleasure. The Major was very well pleased to see himself have this success in all his undertake; as also with his Entertainment, his Lodgings, his Landlord, and every thing else, as if conspiring to his satisfaction: but much more Mistress of the House, whole Conversation was very delightful to him, and the meekness of her Disposition so taking, being as well stored with the Beauty of the Mind as the Face, and the Comeliness of her Body, that he makes it his whole Business and Study to Court her to a good Opinion of him: which in the end came to be more than ordinary, in so much that before the expiration of many Months, the Husband began to take notice of their too much familiarity, and their too often meeting, which he could not well digest; although he could find no room for a thought, that could warrant the least suspicion of ill in 〈◊〉 whose Virtue he believed to be proof enough against all Temptations; yet being a little dissatisfied, he begins to make some inquiry into the life of Major Clancie: which by the relation of those more conversant with the Major) he finds him to be the most vicious dishonest villainous Cheat in the World: which incenses the Merchant, and kindles such a Flame of jealousy in him, that he is at his Wit's end: and in such disorder that he knows not what he had best to do.  
§ To pocket up his apprehended injury he is not able, to revenge it he knows not which way; but still enquiring in all Companies, as well in Coffe-houses as Taverns, after the Major, where he never meets any that affords him a good word; but the former Character confirmed by all men. The Merchant has only his own thoughts to consult in this great affair, which indeed takes him wholly off from the consideration of all other concerns, he is by chance informed of a private Lodging the Major frequents when he separates himself from company; where he and Mr. Berningham a Comrade of his lie together; the Merchant at his hours of loneliness, contriving some way to repair part of his losses by the Major: first for the use of his house since the Majors coming thither, then for the several sums of money from time to time, with which he supplied him: but chiefly for that irreparable injury which he dares scarce trust his own most secret thoughts with: but something he must do or not live. At last he takes a resolution to revenge himself upon the Major, which he conceives he may do with the more ease; having found out his private Lodging, where he intends to lay hold of him by the rough hands of six Baliffs appointed and hired for that purpose. But first he will ●ound how his Wife is inclined, and how she will relish this design of his, which he does without delay, finding her in her Chamber alone at her needlework, tells her what had been told him by many, of the wickedness of Major Clancie: who he fears will make them smart if some timely course be not taken to prevent it, he reckons up what money he had of them, what di●t, and lodging, besides the money lent him upon Sr. William Riders accounted, upon a Bill of Exchange: which he really believes to be counterfeited, so that money must be lost; if not▪ all the rest.  
§ To all which she makes answer that it is no small cause of wonder to her that any man could be so great a Counterfeit; and that if all this was true, she hoped her Husband had more discretion then to suffer himself to be so abused; by a Person he had so much obliged, and was so base to requite men's kindnesses: by Cheating, she uttered those words with such a Passion, and seemed really so angry at the Major's ingratitude, and the fear of her own loss: that she pressed her Husband with all the eagerness that could be to Revenge himself upon that unworthy Fellow. The Merchant hearing all this, and believing his Wife had spoke nothing but what she cordially wished, was extremely satisfied to see, and hear her so heartily take his part, and seem so little concerned. for the Major: whereupon he tells her how he intends to revenge himself, and prevent his harm for the future; and that he had his Writ and his Baliffs ready to apprehend the Major: in his private Lodging which he that day found out, and would that night visit him, she seemed to be very well pleased with the design, and desired her Husband to lose no time: but to prosecute that base ungrateful Fellow. The Husband goes his way extremely well satisfied, blaming himself for having so ill thoughts, and mean apprehensions of so honest and so Virtuous a Wife: his back is no sooner turned, but she immediately sends for Major Clancie; and makes him a challenge of unkindness for his company keeping in his Private Lodging, and never acquainting her: who could not conceal from him any tiling either of affection, or fortune, he easily made his peace with her, who continues so firmly her Friendship for him; thoroughly acquaints him with her Husband's intention, to visit him at his private Lodging, with six Baliffs that night.  
§ The Major having expressed his thankfulness after his wont manner, tells her he knows not where to be in safety from that storm that threatened him, but in her Arms: to his unspeakable joy, and consolation: thus they interchange glances of Love-looks, while 〈◊〉 Merchant is preparing for his intend●● visit. About eight of the clock at night he comes to the private Lodging, gives orders to the Baliffs to handle the Major very Roughly; to beat him sound, and spare nothing about him but his Life: and in case they found his chamber door not open, to break it open, and he would save them harmless. Up stairs they go, and finding the Chamber-door shut, they opened it as they were commanded, and into the Room they crowd, and finding a Man in Bed, cried out loudly here he is, we have him. The Merchant bids them pay him sound, spare him not, which order they readily obeyed, they fall most terribly a beating of him, so fast that they scarce gave him time to ask what the matter was, or what they meant, or did intend to murder him: they cried still with every stroke thou Rogue, thou Rascal, we'll pay thee for all thy Villainies. When they had done buffiting of his Head, and Face, with the pomels and hilts of their Swords, till they had disfigured him, he crying aloud Murder, Murder, with which he alarmed the People of the House, so that they all came up to his rescue, and amongst them the Merchant, who upon sight of Mr. Berningham, who was the Man abused; claps his Hands, falls upon his knees, begs Mr. Berningham pardon a thousand times over, and over to little purpose; for Mr. Berningham told him in plain, Sir though you seem not to have known me, and that this abuse is in mistake; assure yourself that I know you very well, and am glad you are of ability to repair me for this abuse, the like I believe was never heard: break my Head and Face, to tear my Hair and clothes, to thrust my Bed-cloaths through with naked Swords, and piercing my Skin, and all this for nothing, but under colour of mistake! Assure yourself while there is Law in the Land, I shall find means to right myself, the Merchant knew not what excuse to make the Baliffs having proved him to be the cause; and that it was his private Orders, and public Commands to use him whom they found in Bed thus rigorously: to which the Merchant makes no reply; but invites the Master of that House, and Mr. Berningham: who by his Landlord was persuaded, to the Tavern, where a Chirurgeon was sent for to dress those hurts Berningham had received in the Counter-scuffle. The Merchant makes use of his interest in all the Company to mediate with Mr. Berningham for a reconciliation: to which he was not willing to listen, till at last with much ado being obliged to his Landlord, he consented to an accommodation, which was, that the Merchant should immediately pay him Fifty Pounds before they parted, which he did, and was glad to come off so.  
§ The Merchant discontented, goes strait home to his House. 'twas late at night, and finding the door open, as he directed, goes up to his Chamber, bemoaning his misfortunes to his Wife, and she in bed: who joined with him in railing against Major Clancie the Author of these disasters, who was at that hour in bed with her; and while the Merchant was venting of his Passion, and she seemingly much troubled for all those Losses he had mentioned; she directed her Friend Clancie where to convey himself, before Candles were brought in: which he had the good Fortune seasonably to do, in a little private Closet of hers, where he remained till morning, when the Merchant's occasions timely called him. So that the Major had opportunity to make his escape without discovery. What hours of Pleasure they two stole for the future is not mentioned. But 'tis to be supposed he seldom made any public visit. Mr. Berningham and Clancie at their meeting made themselves merry, with repeating those passages formerly mentioned. The Merchant rests contented with the absence of Clancie, for all the losses he sustained by him; notwithstanding he despaired of ever being repaid his money, or having any other reparation.   

CHAP. VIII.  
AS the Major was one day a courting of a Mistress he had in St. Martains-lane, and looking out of the Street-window, he observed a Fellow upon the stall of a Cutlers-shop, and knowing him to be a Baliff, suspected his being there to wait for him, he calls his Servant, bids him go over the way, and bring him the Boy of that Shop that he saw knocking of some nails: the Servant went, and brought the Boy. Boy says the Major privately, I will give you a Crown if you will do me a small piece of Service in point of merriment, which he undertook to do if he could: he takes the Boy to the window and shows him the Fellow that sat upon the stall; do you see (says he) yonder Fellow with a great leather Belt how it ●angs a cross the stall, as soon as you go to your work, and as you are knocking ●he nails, do but fasten that part of his Belt to the stall, and be sure to nail it so as ●e may not readily free himself. The Boy undertook it, and was very glad of the occasion, as of the reward: goes over to his Shop, falls a knocking of some nails as before, of which the Fellow took no notice, he nails the Belt, and piece of his coat to the stall, as the Major directed him, who was all the time looking out of the window, till he saw the Fellow fast. Then comes down to take Coach, the Fellow seeing him come out, leaps off the stall in great haste, and gives it such a pull that down comes the stall, and all that was upon it: tumbles the Fellow to the ground, with the stall at his heels, and all the Hammers, Nails, and Boxes, which at the fall made such a clutter that the Fellow was frighted out of his wits: thinking the Devil had been at his back: out came the Neighbours to see what the matter was▪ they disentangle the Fellow, carry him into a house till he recovered his wits again▪ The Master of the Shop asked him if ever he would sit upon a stall again.  
§ The Major by his contrivance escaped the Baliffs, and passing by Temple-bar, unexpectedly meets one of his old Creditors, a Citizen of whom he had borrowed fifty pounds some months before: the Citizen asked him if it were not high time for him to have his money promised him long since to which the Major could make no other answer then the scarcity of money, which he hoped would soon be over; and that then he would not sail to pay him; and requite his long forbearance as became an honest man, that he could not choose but be sensible, of such a courtesy, and desired the Citizen to go with him into the Globe Tavern hard by, and take a glass of Wine. The Citizen accepted his Invitation, and after a glass or too desired him to six upon some certain time to pay this money, though it were six months more: he did not much scruple that so he might be sure to receive it at his day: to which the Major makes answer he should not be so long without it: but that so soon as his Uncle came to Town he doubted not of such a supply as would enable him to discharge that debt. Being an absolute stranger to the Major's Relations, the Citizen asked him who his Uncle was, from whom he expected that supply from, he told him a man very well known, the Bishop of London. A very worthy reverend good Man says the Citizen, upon whose Note or Word you shall command what sum you please or have occasion to use: thus they entertained each other for some time, till the Citizen having some occasion to rise from the Table, and walking toward the window; observes the Bishop of London's Coach, where upon he calls to the Major immediately telling him his Uncle was coming up the Street. The Major, as if very glad of it, hastening down the stairs, takes the Citizen along, bids him keep a little distance, within hearing, which the Citizen observes while the Major goes to the Coach, and bids the Coachman hold. The Bishop not knowing the Major, asked what Service he would command, or what his business was; whereupon the Major with a great deal of humility, told him after he had begged his Lordship's pardon for this unseasonable trouble, occasioned by a discourse that happened between him and his Friend in the Tavern about Religion, and cares of Conscience by which he plainly discovered several doubts, and scruples that bred many disorders in this Friend; and were part of his learning or skill to remove, which indeed (my Lord) made me engage to find him one, whose Ability, and willingness was sufficiently known to be ready upon all such occasions (meaning your Lordship) the Bishop tells him it was well done, and I thank you for your good opinion, and shall be ready to do my part when ever your Friend appea●s. (My Lord) I humbly thank your Lordship, and look upon the work as half done, now you have undertaken it, and here is the Gentleman, calling the Citizen to the boot of the Coach, to whom the Bishop gives this orders, and assurance in these words, Sir if you please to come to my house about ten of the clock to morrow morning, I will satisfy you: the Citizen is beyond measure pleased to have so much certainty of that money, he despaired ever to see, the Major and the Citizen returned to the Tavern, where after a glass or two, he asked the Citizen how he was pleased with his Uncle's answer? so well plea●ed that if you have occasion for more money, I am ready to furnish you upon that security. For I know my Lord to be a very just man, the Major replies you may be well assured I want money or you had not been so long without yours, whereupon the Citizen lends him fifty broad pieces of Gold, in hopes to have it repaid by the Bishop the next day, with the other fifty at the hour appointed.  
§ The Citizen rises betimes joyfully, goes to the Bishop's house about the hour of ten, as he was directed, and meeting one of the Bishop's Servants, desires him to acquaint my Lord there was a man to speak with his Lordship by his own appointment, the Servant went and told my Lord as much, my Lord having it seems forgot; asked what manner of man it was, till by mentioning the appointment, and recollecting upou the discourse he had with a Gentleman he knew who was in the Street the day before: calls to mind the promise he had made to satisfy the Gentleman in his doubtful scruples of Conscience, and believing that to be the Gentleman, bids his Servant take him into the dining-room, and there to entertain him with a glass of Sack, while he stayed in his Closet to look over some few cases and prepare himself for the discourse he expected, his stay was not long, when coming into the Dining-room he desires the Gentleman to sit down by him, a●d very freely to speak his mind and conceal nothing that troubled him, which the Citizen did after doing his Duty, and giving his thanks to the Bishop, then falls a telling a long story how that he had lent his Nephew fifty pounds some months since, and Yesterday fifty pounds more in Gold, upon his Lords promise to satisfy that debt by the hour of ten of the clock, which he comes now to receive, the Bishop looked upon him very strangely, admiring what he meant by talking to him of a Nephew, and fifty pound long since, and fifty more Yesterday, and gave him the hearing with the more patience, thinking it to be the effects of a light Head, that having wanted sleep occasioned by what had been told him. The Citizen wondered what the matter was that the Bishop was so slow in paying the money he thought himself so sure of, presses more earnestly for it; so that the Bishop found the man was really in earnest; and therefore makes him this answer. Sir I am a stranger to you, as also to all you have said. I know nothing of the matter of money, or Nephew you speak of, for I have none, nor do I well understand you, as for the promise I made Yesterday, for which you now challenge me, 'twas net for payment of any money, but to endeavour your satisfaction another way, by removing those doubts of Conscience in points of Religion, with which you had been so tormented, that was my promise, and my meaning, and that I am still ready to perform, and nothing else. The Citizen hearing this Resolution, grew so stark mad to think how he was deluded: and how unfortunatly he contributed to his own undoing, by parting with his last fifty pounds; could not contain himself from telling the Bishop his resentments; to which the Bishop makes this reply that he believed his discourse to be a contrivance between the other man and him to cheat him of his money, but they should find their mistake. Pardon me for that, (says the Citizen) being very much troubled, and in great rage; for my Lord it looks more like such a design between your Nephew, and you, then for me to cheat myself: this made the Bishop so angry that he bid the Fellow go about his business, so left the Room. the Citizen is ready to hang himself, knows not in the World what course to take, till upon some Advice he sets forth the whole case by way of Petition to the King, to whom it was presented by the hands of Sir Edward nicols then Secretary.  
§ The King having read the Petition, and finding it to have so great a resemblance to the many such like effects oft times told of Major Clancie: says, if Major Clancie were alive, I should think this to be one of his Pranks, a Gentleman of the Court standing by, says Sir I am sure he is alive, for I saw him in the Gallery as I came hither now, the King bid him call in Clancie, which the Gentleman did, as soon as he appeared, the King bid him look upon that Petition, and tell if it were not like one of his roguish Tricks: to which Clancie impudently answered (may it please your Majesty) I know this story well, for 'twas I that did it: so runs hastily out of the Room, the King not being willing to have the rest buried, commands the Secretary to write a Reference, upon the Citizens Petition to my Lord of Ormond, to examine and report, if not determine the matter: as soon as the Petition and reference was brought to my Lord: he appoints a day of hearing, in order to which he sent for the Bishop, likewise to the Citizen, who failed not of coming at the hour to the place appointed for the hearing. Thither came a crowd of people to hear the matter debated, first the Citizen was called to make good the Allegations of the Petition, which he did, with much ease, there being none to contradict.  
§ Then the Bishop was desired to make his defence, who confessed these words in the Petition to be true, that is that he would satisfy the Petitioner next day in his doubts, and scruples of Conscience, but not to pay any money, for there was not a word of any such like thing spoken of by any of them, which was all he had to say. My Lord of Ormond asked if there were any Witness, or other proof to be heard on either side? to which he answered no.  
Why then says my Lord I do find upon the whole matter, that the Petitioner is out of purse two several fifty pounds, one was lent long before your Lordship was any way concerned, so as I must needs free you from any part of that sum, as for the last fifty which was absolutely lent upon your Lordship's promise of satisfaction by such an hour. I do not clearly find how to ease you of that; but advise you to compound with the Petitioner, several arguments were used by the Bishop to strengthen what had been Pleaded in his behalf, and formerly repeated in this discourse: but all to little purpose.   

CHAP. IX.  
AT the King's Restauration, The Prince of Tuscany and his Servant Gerardo being together, having some occasions offered to talk of the Restauration of the King of England, at which they were very much rejoiced, Gerardo began to talk of my Lord Ormond, wondering they never heard from him since his leaving that Country; the Prince said it was something strange, yet believed the reason was because they had not been settled in their Possession and Laws, so soon after so many Changes and Revolutions. Gerardo asked his Master if he would give him leave to go into England to see the Change? To which the Prince consented, and said, he would write by him to my Lord of Ormond, a Letter of Congratulation, with some modest mention of his own small Concern: His preparation for his Journey took up but little time, nor do we hear much of him till his Arrival in England, where he spent part of his time in seeing the Country; informing himself every where as he Traveled of the People's Satisfaction, in the Kings coming home, very inquisitive after the Nobility, of their several Names and Fortunes, especially my Lord of Ormond, of whom he had such Characters of nobleness, and a ccomplished generosity as confirmed him in the belief of what he had often heard before. To Court he comes, there inquires for my Lord of Ormonds' Apartment: where meeting some of my Lords Gentlemen, desired to be brought to kiss my Lord's hand, and deliver his Letter, of which my Lord having notice, sent to have the Gentleman brought up, who no sooner came into the Room, and delivered his Letter: but there was observed a sudden change in his Countenance: at which the Standards by much wondered; although not half so much as my Lord did at the Letter, which mentioned thing which my Lord knew nothing of; but having read it, turns to the Gentleman that brought it him, and said, Sir, I understand by this Letter you have brought me from the Prince, that your Name is Gerardo, and that you are his Servant; and that you brought me at such a time from him a very kind and friendly Token. Pray Sir did you bring any such, or did you ever see me before this time? The Gentleman seeing how grossly he was mistaken in him, that took upon him to be Lord of Ormond, the greatness of the difference, both in Person and Carriage; scarce knew what Answer, or what excuse to make for himself, either to my Lord or his Master were he there present; and had enough to do to stand upon his Legs; which all perceived, yet with a great Sigh, he told my Lord, how innocently he fell into a most unfortunate mistake, though with a true intention of a real Service to his Lordship, that most true it is, that I never saw your Lordship till now, and as true as there was a Gentleman, that came into our Country, that did personate your Lordship very cunningly, and employed me to the Prince; who very readily sent by me what he desired, believing him to be my Lord of Ormond; though not resembling you in the least; this my Lord is the truth, and my undoing to be instrumental in a thing of that prejudice to my Master, and no manner of Service to your Lordship, to whom it was intended.  
§ To which my Lord makes this reply, that he never knew any thing of the matter before, yet is very sensible of the Princes kind intentions, and that although he did not receive the benefit of the kindness intended him; yet his obligation was no whit the less, and that he would not allow the Prince to be a Sufferer for his good will to him; but would restore him his money with many thanks, which he commanded-should be immediately brought to Gerardo, with a Token of Gratitude for his own good will. The case is much altered with Gerardo upon the sudden, who resolves for the remaining part of his Life, to evidence to the World the Bounty, and true Nobleness of the Generous Lord of Ormond brought him from Death to Life, by preserving his Integrity to his Master, and easing him of the weight at Present of that great Burden he lay under; which was like to have sunk him before them all. Gerardo returns homeward cheerfully, gives his Master an account of his Reputation, and his own astonishment at first sight of my Lord of Ormond: and likewise how my Lord received the intended kindness of the Prince, who at hearing this Relation; wished for nothing more than to find out the Counterfeit, that durst take that Name upon him, and personate so brave, and worthy a Nobleman; and lofty attempt: to fool and cheat him of his money, vowing he would give that sum to have him, they were soon weary of the search.   

CHAP. X.  
CLancie being no nearer than London, practising his own Trade, after his wont manner. Goes into a Wollendrapers-shop, takes up so many yards of Cloth to make him a new Livery, has it carried into his Coach, tells the Merchant he had no money about him, but send one of these young Men your Servants along as far as my Lodgings, and I will pay him: but before I go, let me see him you send, that there may be no mistake. The Merchant showed him a young Youth, this is he shall wait upon your Worship, the Major goes along, the Boy follows the Coach he knew not whether; the Major instead of going to his lodgings, goes to a Barbours-house into one of his upper Rooms, to be trimmed and having done, rewards the Barbour plentifully, and tell him withal, do not you think that I give you so much money for your pains you take in trimming me. No, for I have a greater charge to give you, in which I must entreat your care, and diligence; for which you shall be well rewarded, that is, as soon as I am gone you must call up hither a young youth that follows me, he is a little bashful, and you'll hardly persuade him to confess his infirmity, till you force him; therefore lock him in with as much privacy as you can, and search him, and if you find things be amiss which I suspect you will, pray apply such things for his recovery as you think most expedient, and I will reward you well. I know the Boy will be very shy, and seem not to understand your meaning; But let not that suffice till you have a full view of all, and thereby satisfy yourself, and be careful. The Barbour promises to be mindful of it, and so soon as the Major went into the Coach, bid the Boy go along with the Barbour, and he would do his business: the Boy makes a leg, and goes along.  
§ The Barbour leads him into a private Room, locks the door, begins to preach to the Boy: tells him what a fine Youth he is to fall to his Roguery so timely, the Boy thought the Fellow mad, and blushed to hear him, come come (says the Barbour) your modesty must not serve your turn, your Master told me all this, I must see how you are, the Boy thought the Devil had possessed the Fellow, asked him what the matter was, or what he would be at: that he came for his Master's money, the Price of his Cloth, the Barbour replies, your Master's order I must Follow. I am to search you for you have the Pox, and I am hired, I will do my duty. The Boy vowed and swore he had no Pox, that his Master lived in Cheapside, and sent him with that Gentleman for his money. All this would not serve the Barbours' turn, but he must be true to his trust, and will search, so that the dispute ended in Cuffs; but in the end the Barbour being too hard for the Boy, forced down his Breeches, and searched the Boy, who he found as clear, and sound as any Creature could be. The Barbour satisfied himself that he had done his part. The poor Boy much troubled for his abuse, without remedy goes home to his Master, with this sad account. Tells him the whole story, how that instead of money he had a beating, and a long Encounter with the Barbour, and was searched for the Pox; the Master not knowing how to help himself, could not choose but smile at the passage, who must sit down with the loss.   

CHAP. XI.  
THe Major having played so many mischievous Pranks, by Cheating and Abusing so many Persons of all sorts, without distinction, thinks it high time for to leave England, and proposes to himself something of more safety in Ireland, where he had not been in a long time, though not been Idle when he was there. Thither he goes, where by some he is made welcome, more for the description he sometimes gave of the passages of his Life, wherein People found some pastime, than any way coveting his so well known Company. At the time of his being in Ireland, there was erected a Court for Trial of all men's Qualifications, called the Court of Claims, which he very often frequented, and observed the manner of proceedings there, and how Justice was distributed to all Men according to Evidence; he being given to understand that in that Court was a day perfixed according to Rule, for the Trial of one in Makoones' Qualification, where he must either prove his Innocency or be declared Nocent, and consequently lose his Estate. He that was chiefly concerned in this Cause, and who must have found Witnesses for to Criminate Maccmahon was, Sir Henry Inglesby, a Person of much Worth and Honour, to whom Major Clancie offers his Service; as being the fittest Man in the World for Sir Henry to employ as he pretended: and gave these reasons, that Maccmahon was well known to him; so were most of his Actions of his Life. Especially from the first of all the Rebellion wherein he presumed, Sir Henry was only concerned: here he tells him that there was such a Cause, such a day to be heard; and that he doubted not of Proof sufficient to Criminate Maccmahon, nor would he be ungrateful to such as would appear there for him. Sir says the Major, the Service I can do is this; I can prove by several Witnesses, that Mac●mahon in the first of the Rebellion was in Actual Service with the Rebels; that he had command of a Troop of Horse, and that there were coming from their own dwellings to be sheltered from the Rebels in Cork, twelve poor Englishmen that were killed by this Maccmahon in such a place, this alone I can assure (says Clancie) is sufficient to do your work; and shall be proved before the Judges of the Court, by such Witnesses as I shall not fail to bring, on which you with confidence rely. Sir Henry was undoubtedly pleased to have the offer of such a Service so seasonable; gave the Major many thanks, with the assurance of such a return as became him for so great a kindness.  
§ The day appointed for this cause, being come, Major Clancie having prepared his Witnesses, waits upon Sir Henry to the Court where Sir Henry was called, and asked if he was ready, and where were his Witnesses. He produced seven, brought him by Major Clancie: whose Testimony agreed so well in every Circumstance that the Court was satisfied, and resolved to declare Maccmahon Nocent; till Sir Henry offers to the Court that in case they are not yet sufficiently satisfied with what they have heard of his proof, he had one more sufficient good Witness to confirm what had been proved before; to which the Court answered they would discountenance none; but hear as many as he pleased, whereupon Major Clancie was called: having given him his Oath, the Court asked him if he knew Maccmahon, and how long? he answered he knew Maccmahon from his infancy. 'Twas asked him again how he found Maccmahon inclined as to the Rebellion, and lastly what he knew as to the cause depending? To all which he makes answer thus: may it please his Honour and Court to take notice: that I am upon my Oath, and shall speak nothing but the truth: that I know Maccmahon the Son and Heir of Sir Tirlah Maccmahon, and from his Infancy had an intimate acquaintance with him, and that in all that time I never knew an honester a true Man to the distressed English, and farther by the virtue of the Oath I have taken, I do believe he never drew Sword in anger, or ever drew drop of Blood in all his life. I do farther take upon my Oath that I believe these seven men that swore last before me, knew no more ill of him then I do: that the Testimonies they gave here against him is only the dictates they had from me: how says the Judge! here is a great contradiction, that have point-blank Criminated him, knew no ill of him: but what you have dictated, and you swore him innocent to all intents. How can this agree or be made out? To which Major Clancie replies, 'tis all very true; and I will make it out with the Reasons I had for doing of it. I have been often at Trials of the like nature in this Court, where I have seen, and observed to my great trouble of mind, many and innocent Persons suffer to their undoing, by their Perjury of suborned Witnesses: and being very fearful that such of the like might have been here. to the ruin and utter destruction of so much innocency: to prevent which, I choose rather to bring myself upon the Stage by offering myself to Sir Henry. By which I hope I have preserved the Fortune of an honest Innocent Man. And for farther Proof of this undeniable Proof, I humbly desire that some of the seven, sworn and examined before me may be again examined if what I have here declared, be not all true, to the knowledge of every one of them, which request was granted. The Fellows were reexamined, who confessed this to be true▪ Whereupon the Cat was turned into the Pan. Mr. Maccmahon was declared innocent, his Estate decreed him, and Sir Henry put to shist for deficiences elsewhere.   

CHAP. XII.  
Mayor Clancie now begins to find how that by his long continued lewd Practices he has brought himself to that pass, that few or none will anear him. Such as do, are in a continual apprehension of some design, which makes most Men keep at such a distance: that Clancie is necessitated to quit the Kingdom, which he scarce knows how to do for want of money. Till supplied by a Friend that had for some time kept him concealed from his Persecutors in a Closet: till there was an opportunity to convoy him aboard a Ship that was Bound for Chester, and was Wind-driven into Beumoris in Wales. The Major takes up his Lodging at the Post-Masters House, one Mr. Jones, where he had not been above an hour, when there chances to Arrive a Lady that came from London, and was bound for Ireland. which the Major understanding by one of her Servants, desired the Servant to acquaint his Lady that there was a conveniency very lucky come into the Harbour, which undoubtedly She would be glad to make use of, which was the Ship which the Major came out of Ireland in. A strong stansh Vessel, with good Accommodations, and very skilful Seamen. The Servant very joyfully goes to his Lady, and acquaints her with all that the Gentleman had told him, whereupon the Lady being desirous to be rid of a tedious troublesome Journey, was extremely glad to hear of such a conveniency, were it but to save her the labour of going to Holly-head: which must have cost her the Toil of another day.  
§ Whereupon She sent her Servant to desire that Gentleman to come to her Chamber, if it were not troublesome to him after his Voyage; of whom She expected a more exact account of particulars, in order to her Transportation; which the Servant neglected not, but went forthwith to the Major and delivered his Message. You may easily believe the Major would lose no time to obey the commands of a Fair Lady; (as he found her to be) who no sooner comes into the Room, after a kind salute; but the Lady desires to know more of those conveniences, being altogether a stranger to the matters of that kind, or any things that belonged to Sea Affairs: although her occasions compelled her to attempt it at this time invoidably. The Major told her that there was no conveniency to be expected in any Ship upon the Irish Seas, but this Ship had, which he was extremely glad of for her sake; as also that he had the good Fortune to be Messenger of so good News to her. Some time was spent in discourse till they were called to Supper, where the Major very diligently attended each motion, or look of Hers, and that in such a way as must have expressed a passion, which is impossible but She must take notice of, and improbability not much dissatisfied therewith.  
§ Thus they continued some days, the Wind being still cross, till at last he plainly told her, he had not the power any longer to conceal his affections, which he had so long smothered to his unspeakable prejudice, and disquiet. She with a great deal of modesty, told him how sorry she should be to occasion the prejudice or disquiet of any body: and that She believed all this to be but words of course: and that the Major did it for his pastime, She being very sensible there could be no such Attractiveness of her part, that could produce any such effect: to which the Major makes this reply, that if She doubted the Truth of what he had said, he should evidence it to the hazard of his life, and turn back from his intended Journey to London without regard, or consideration of any thing, and wait of her into Ireland, with resolution never to quit his pretention, or decline her Service. Thus the Major lays close Siege to the Lady having two Friends to join with him in his undertaking, Opportunity, and Importunity, who have all played their parts so successfully, that the tender hearted Lady was at last forced to yield. But upon the most honourable Terms of Marriage, which was soon consummated to the unspeakable comfort, and consolation of both. This Siege held a great while, about six days, to the expense of many Bottles; at the charge of the Major, whose whole study is how to reemburse himself by the help of his Lady, whose little stock of money, with a considerable parcel of Jewels, are most willingly delivered as a Marriage Portion to the Major.  
§ Whose Brains are now as busy in contriving a way to leave his poor betrayed Lady, as ever they were in giving Her good will to this Unfortunate Match. Too late to be repent, he wrote a Letter as if brought him by a Messenger of the Earl of Carbury; from his house the Golden Grove, signifying how much it concerned the Major, to make all the haste he could thither for prevention of his own harm, which unavoidably must follow if he come not quickly away. This Letter he ordered to be brought him when they were all sat at Table, which he reads with some Surprise, as if a stranger to the occasion, and the pressure of it; then delivers it to his Lady, who upon reading of it had like to have fallen down dead, by reason of the suddainness of it: and her own apprehensions for the loss of her Joy. (though but for a time) The Master of the House and the rest of the Company applied things to recover her. As soon as Dinner was done, he takes his Lady aside, and gives her all the assurance imaginable, as well of his Constancy, as his speedy return; in the interim leaves her box in which her Jewels formerly lay; makes her believe he had removed none, when in truth he had left none: he takes his leave of all, and goes toward Aperconeway.  
§. His Lady fixing her Blubbered Eyes upon him, till he was out of sight, then goes to her Chamber, bemoaning herself to the Walls (who undoubtedly would have pitied her, if they had Sense) this poor distressed Lady a term proper to all that have to do with him) knows not what is best to do, either to go for Ireland, or stay where she is, and there wait the coming of her Comfort; which for a long time she did in vain; for he never came thither after, but left her to pay all his Debts, as well as her own; which gave her occasion to go to her Box, with intention to dispose of one of the Jewels of lesser Value; But when she had opened the Box, and found none there; then came her Fits in earnest: by which she was made the true Object of Pity, having neither money nor Jewels left; and what was worst of all, betrayed by the false heartedness of a pretended Lover, who has now left her no other Relief, than what the Charity of good People will allow her. In this distressed Condition I must leave her to pursue the Major; who bends his Course towards London.   

CHAP. XIII.  
THe Major being in few days arrived at London, takes up his Lodging in Kingstreet at a Barber's House; where he had not been many Months, when he endeavours to make sure of a Friend there, by Debauching the Maid-Servant; who would by no means consent, without a promise of Marriage, which he never scrupled, having some other Design in which he intended to make use of her; he had not often been in Company, but some one or other revives a Discourse of his former Actions, by which he perceives that most Men begin to forsake him, being in a low Condition; having squandered away his late acquired Jewels: it being his constant Custom as soon as he had a Stock to Lavish it extravigantly upon all Occasions without regard to the time to come, or preservation of his Credit designing nothing but to Cheat; which rendered him uncapable of admittance into civil Company; whereby he was necessitated to play at Small Games.  
§. As appeared upon making his Address to a very ordinary plain woman, neither Rich nor Fair, to whom he had promised Marriage, and thereby Invites her to go with him into a little blind Alehouse, where they lived like Man and Wife for three or four days. One Morning as they lay in Bed, he tells her how inconvenient this place is for them to reside in; and therefore would have her take some course to discharge what expense they had been at since their coming, for he declared he had it not. She plainly Answered, she had nothing in the World but that Ring, which she pulled off, of her Finger, and gave him; a very rich Couple fortunately put together, able enough to undo any other two they met with. He no sooner fingers the Ring, but conveys himself away and leaves his Wife to pay the Reckoning, which she was forced to pawn her Clothes for; and being Jealous of his going to visit others he loved better, She with Hue and Cry apprehended him, had him sent to Newgate, where he had but few Visiters save only the Servant-Maid with whom he had contracted a Friendship, when he Lodged at the Barbers in Kingstreet; who by this time had removed from the Barbers to the Service of one Mr. Owen, from whence she often went to Newgate in pure kindness to Major Clancie, and in most of her Visits thither, she carried in her Arms a Child of her Mistresses who seldom came home without Creepers at its Back, to witness the cleanness of the place it came from. One day this Maid-Servant Visiting the Major, he tells her how Unfortunate he is, in the want of a small sum of thirty pounds, for which he could now redeem himself from the great danger that threatened him, and free himself of his Restraint, and restore his Liberty, which he preferred before the World. She being undoubtedly much concerned, told him where there lay a considerable sum of money much above that sum as she guest by the Bulk. If there could be away contrived to bring it him, she would not fail of her part, at which the Major overjoyed, told her though he was a Prisoner, and thereby deprived of power to do it in his own person, that he had those he durst trust, and would do the work essectua●ly with her Assistance; so that before they parted it was resolved, that those he sent should come at such an hour to Mr. Owen's house to be merry, with resolution to find fault with any Room they should be carried into, till the Maid had given them a Sign, by which they were to know the Room wherein the money lay. All which was effected in very few days, with great success, in so much, that the two Men employed by the Major, had in their possession one hundred Broad pieces of Gold, and thirty pounds in Silver; which they carried clearly away, and considering how rich they were grown upon the sudden, bethink them how to make this money their own by dividing it between them two, without thought of him that employed them; so that they Robbed Mr. Owen, and Cheated Major Clancie.  
No sooner came Mr. Owen to the knowledge of his loss, but he with an industrious Diligence makes such inquiries, as soon brought the Maid under suspicion of being privy to the Robbery; which upon Examination before a Judge, she could hardly deny; whereupon she was committed, and would have been hanged, but that she pretended to be with Child. Nor did Mr. Owen rest satisfied with this, but resolves to spare neither Charge nor Labour to find them out that Robbed him, which he did in few days, and had them Committed to Newgate, till the Great destructive Conflagration came so near, that struck such a Terror in all the Inhabitants, that they scarce knew what they did. One day the Jailor or Turnkey coming to visit his Prisoners amongst the rest these two that had Robbed Mr. Owen, who plainly told him how that they apprehended the danger of the Fire much more than the Crime for which they were committed; Vowing that it he would not take off their their Irons, and set them free from that Danger, he should never leave that Place, but that they would force him to stay and take his share of what happened; whereupon, the affrighted Fellow, strikes off their Irons, sets them at Liberty, and goes away; who were no sooner in the Streets than they fell to Pluudering all such Goods as they met with, or could conveniently carry away. Thus Mr. Owen was Rob without Relief, the Robbers and the Maid saved, but Major Clancie Hanged.  
FINIS.