NISSENA, AN EXCELLENT NEW ROMANCE: WRITTEN Originally in ITALIAN BY FRANCISCO CARMENI; AND Now Englished by an Honourable ANTI-SOCORDIST.  
LONDON, Printed for Humphrey Moseley and are to be sold at his Shop at the sign of the Prince's Arms in St PAUL'S Churchyard, 165●.   

NISSENA.  
THOAS King of Cyprus, being somewhat aged, was much afflicted for that he wanted one to succeed him in his Kingdom, having utterly lost all hopes thereof by the death of his wife Almira, daughter to the late King of Macedon, who died being with child. He thought it unbecoming Kingly Majesty to marry a Subject, though he wanted not good store of Noble blood, and cried up beauty. And to alley himself with his neighbouring Princes, suited not with his politic ends; wherefore moved thereunto by his natural inclination, he resolved to take unto him such a wife, as might acknowledge her being made partner of the Regal Throne only to the merit of her beauty. Rhodes, a neighbouring Island, though but of a small circuit, was in those days so famous for handsome women, and did so much abound therein, as young Travellers flocked thither from fare distant Provinces, only to feed their greedy and curious eyes, with beholding those countenances which multiplied Venus'es' on earth, and outdid the stars in Heaven. Thoas therefore, putting on a strange resolution, determined to send thither three of the ancientest and wisest Gentlemen of his Court, with free liberty to bring her unto him whom of all the Virgins of that Island they should judge to be the fairest, that he might make her a Companion both of his Bed and Kingdom, to the end that the one might be blessed with issue, the other with successors. He recommended three qualities to be by them observed in her whom they were to choose to be his Queen. That she should be of Noble Birth, Of an excellent Temper, And of a befitting Age. And for a fourth, he gave them in charge, that she should be rarely handsome, to witness to the World, that he did not marry merely out of a desire to satisfy his lust. The Ambassadors departed with two of the most glorious and best rig'd Galleys which were ever made in the King's Arsenal, attended on with a number of Gentlemen, Soldiers, and Servants, answerable to the decency and greatness of him that sent them. Having had a very prosperous passage, they cast Anchor not far from the Haven, which on the East is shut in by two strong necks of land, thrust out by the Island to rest herself upon. The usual friendly Salute being given by Canon shot, they sent Albericus, one of the Gentlemen, upon the Peer, with the Royal Ensigns, who made Fermondo the then Prince understand, That three Ambassadors from Cyprus desired his good leave to come on shore, and to have audience: He being full of Civility, and a friend to that Crown, sent forthwith many of his Gentlemen unto the Haven, who went forth in three stately vessels, to meet and reverently to receive the Ambassadors. When they were come on land, and being put into rich Coaches, they were waited upon to the Palace by many of the chiefest of the Rhodian Nobility. They were met at the stairs head by Fermondo's self; and after multiplied Embraces and Welcomes, they were brought into the King's lodging: they were well pleased to see themselves treated with greater respect and state than they expected, or could have imagined. Being somewhat weary, by reason of those unavoidable troubles which are suffered at Sea, were buried in sleep when the Sun was well advanced from the east; and when they were awakened by the gladsome sound of Trumpets, and the beating of Drums, which in warlike wise congratulated the arrival of such conspicuous personages. As soon as they were dressed they were invited to Audience by the Prince, who very affably meeting them, said, What is it that is desired by the Ambassadors of King Thoas, whom I so love and reverence, as I have taken but little rest all the last night, out of my desire speediy to execute the commands of so worthy a King? With all due reverence, and as much eloquence as they were Masters of, they delivered their Embassy, desiring that his Highness would be pleased that out of all the fairest and best born Maids of Rhodes, one may be chosen to make happy by her Marriage and Succession, the Bed & Blood Royal of Cyprus. The Prince gave way unto their desires, saying with a pleasing countenance, How fortunate are you the Virgins of Rhodes, for whom your propitious Stars and Thoas his goodness hath prepared so considerable fortunes? Return my acknowledgements unto your King, who vouchsafes to choose a Companion out of my Subjects, who though I command over them, am yet his humble servant. Thankful Civilities were paid on all sides, and in execution of the request, public proclamation was made, That all the fairest and best born Virgins of Rhodes should within a certain prefixed time come to Court, where she who should be judged to be the handsomest, should be crowned Queen of Cyprus. This was soon noised over the whole Island, to the great wonder of every one; and to the particular, alteration of the hearts, not only of the young Maids, but of their Lovers. There was not so concealed corner in the breasts of all those Maids, which was not filled with ambition & womanish vainglory; & the belief which all Lovers have, that the object of their affection is the only true Idol of beauty, did much torment the young men, every one of them fearing to lose her whom they thought to be as worthy of a Crown as she appeared to them to be the Queen of Beauty. Some of the Virgins more passionately in love then the rest, would have refused to have appeared at the time and place appointed, though a Sceptre depended thereupon, lest they might lose their Sweethearts, had not their Parents ambitious hopes forced them to go. The hour and place were appointed, which was to be the fatal moment and Capitol to the Triumph of that Beauty which should happiliest encounter the Genius of those Paris'es', who being to be Judges, the older they were, would be the less passionate in favourably deciding the question whereon the possession not of an Apple, but of a Crown did depend. 'Twas a Spectacle indeed worthy to be seen by the whole world, to behold fourscore exceeding handsome and nobly born virgins within one room, whose pomp, riches, quaintness of dress and apparel, added to their prerogatives of Nature, made up so pleasing a miracle to the eyes of the lookers on, as they doubted whether what they saw was mortal or heavenly. 'Twas then apparently seen what women's industry can do in inventing rich & costly apparel, and extravagant dress to increase by Art the worth of their native beauties, whilst what the innocent want of experience in virgins could not do, was by more cunning women by studied Art effected with all their whole might. Here did some appear with hair elaboratly wound up in Rings, part whereof was tied up with Ribbons, part artificially curled, which falling carelessly upon the shoulders, and upon the cheeks, made them blush to be kissed by so wanton hair. Others barbarously artificious, the treasures of their hair wholly locked up under a monopolising turban of purest linen, showed forth only some few fine threads of refined gold; whence the worth and loveliness of the entire Mass of those hairs, which were vailed and hid, might be judged. Others on the contrary, prodigal and ambitious to divulge their Treasure, gave them their natural liberty to be played on by the winds, who being free dispensers thereof, afforded part of them to the thicker air, that it might not annoy those which were illuminated by the Sunbeams. I mention not those Roses of Diamonds, Rubies, and a thousand other Jewels, which crowned the purity of those foreheads ushering in the Oriental eyes: Nor yet those great and purest Pearls which they wore at their ears and about their Alabaster necks, and which wondered to see themselves outdone in whiteness; for I intent to speak of beauty, not of the accessories thereof. I cannot notwithstanding pass over in silence the comeliness of their apparel, the Silks whereof being taken from Persia, & the several fashions from the most effeminate Provinces, I know not whether they did receive from, or bequeath more loveliness to those members which it was their good fortune to cover. In fine, on what side soever you could look, your eye encountered nothing but wonders. Faces composed of Lilies and mountain Roses, bosoms of purest Alabaster, lips of Coral, pearls shaped into teeth, Eyes brighter than the Sun, milky hands; such and so many were the ravishing graces, and comportments in this so fair assembly of Virgins, as men's minds confused with amazement, and thinking it not possible that those could be real truths which seemed to be the miracles of beauty, they doubted whether the felicity they saw were true, or but an Illusion.  
The Ambassadors who were to make choice, perceived then that it was not so easy as men believed, to judge of beauty, much less amongst so numerous a multitude, where the understanding was confounded by comparing one with another, and where they were to satisfy another's liking, and not their own inclination. To this was added, that their judgements might be abused by their curious Dresses, which sometimes do not only mend but alter the defects of nature. They would not have known what to resolve upon, had not one of them after much cogitation and discourse, desired that the Prince might be entreated, that all those Virgins might be commanded once more to appear in competition, but all of them clothed after one and the same manner with transparent vails, and lose dishevelled hair, to the end that such blemishes in the other parts of their bodies, covered by their Apparel, dress, or were it but with the artificial painting of their faces, might not traduce their judgement. This was agreed upon, in so much as some of the Virgins chose rather to renounce the uncertain fortune of a Crown, than their innate modesty, by suffering themselves to be seen little less than naked. But though the number were lessened, and all Artifices forbidden, yet would it not have been easy to make choice, had not a daughter of the Marquis of Filerno, named Nissena, by such vivacity as became a Queen, freed the judges of their doubt, to whom the glory and praise of Beauty did of most due belong. The Virgins being brought again into the aforesaid place, the Ambassadors hid behind some Arras, and peeping through certain holes, stood with wonder gazing now upon one, now upon another of those pillars of snow, when on the sudden Nissena, advancing somewhat before the rest, with a maidenly blush, said thus; She who desires to Reign, aught by her actions to make herself appear worthy thereof. I, my Companions, not less modest than yourselves, will not be ashamed to display unto the Heavens the reality of those beauties, which they have pleased to bestow on me: the gaining of a Kingdom is in question, which cannot be purchased at a less rate, then by suffering ourselves to be seen so, as upon such an occasion we need not to be ashamed of.  
No less astonished at the magnanimity of that generous action, then struck with admiration to behold those naked and unamendable beauties, the Ambassadors stood awhile in suspense, and afterwards ran to reverence her for their Queen, to whom nothing but the worship of the knee was wanting to make her the true Image of Venus. She being afterwards clad in her accustomed apparel, and the fame of so noble an action being spread abroad, Fermondo's self came to reverence her as a Queen: and the rest of the young maids frustrate of their coveted fortune, bewailed even with tears, the loss of their vain hopes. One of them who rasher then the rest, thought herself much the handsomest of them all, taking it for granted that the Crown of Cyprus was to be the Guiderdon of her beauty, imagined herself already possessed of the Sceptre, insomuch as she had promised places and preferments to divers of her kindred and servants, which as she affirmed, should be conferred upon them by that King, over whom she already pretended absolute power. She, seeing Nissena preferred before her, though she died not, fell grievously sick out of mere vexation, and in the heats of a violent fever which assailed her, fell into raving fits of commanding, and expecting to be served and obeyed as a Queen: having after some months recovered her bodily health, she could never recover the health of her mind, agitated with continual melancholy, which utterly clouding her understanding, brought her within a few years to her grave, with a fond imagination that she was the King's wife, and chief Commandress of the Crown of Cyprus. Thus doth Ambition and vain glory find always punishment in their own faults. The sorrow of the other maids was somewhat allayed by rich and precious Jewels, presented unto them by the Ambassadors, as testimonies of the King's munificency. Public rejoicings were had through the whole Island for Nissena's preferment, whiles sad Emerino deeply in love with her, was he alone who amidst the common rejoicings, made trial of more than mortal sufferings: He swooned at the first news that for her beauty's merit, she was exalted to the throne of Cyprus, and had assuredly died, had not grief supplied the place of his soul, to keep him alive: the poor disconsolate young man was so much the more unhappy, in that he saw himself in some sort forced to applaud her fortune, whose prosperity and greatness he was bound to wish well unto, though to the prejudice of his own heart. He was now out of decency bound to change his love into observance, and yet was it impossible for him who was in love, to force a passage from the one affection to the other, without the resentments of a thousand deaths. I rejoice (said he weeping) my adored Nissena to see thee a Queen, but I cannot rejoice, nor yet without breathing out my Soul, suffer, that thou being exalted to a Crown, art for ever to deprive me of any more seeing, serving, or observing thee: and yet my grieved heart must suffer it. O my too fair and too entirely beloved Nissena! wherefore was not my love less fervent, and you, why were not you less fair; I should not then be now thus tormented. Can my inauspitious stars plot a greater misfortune for me? Give a Kingdom's Sceptre to the Queen of my thoughts; to the end that I might for ever be by her abandoned and forgotten? Ah Emerino, cease lamenting, be of good courage: give way to Fortune, and be glad that thy beloved hath met with honour befitting her merit, and such as thou thyself art bound to desire for her. Thou oughtest to have foreseen that Nature intended her for a Crown: Rejoice and be glad, for if thou rejoycest not in her happiness, she may justly believe thou didst never love her. But alas! how can I be glad, if in her I have lost all my joy, all my content? I will afflict myself, yea as long as I live, but so as my mournful complaints shall never arrive at my Fair ones Ear, nor in any the least manner disturb her contentment in being become a Queen. Courage, my Heart, let us seem to rejoice with her: and for that she may perhaps disdain to hear me speak, I will by Writing acquaint her with my souls affection. Then taking a Pen, he wrote thus unto her:  
DIsdain not, I beseech you, my long in vain adored NISSENA, to abase your Eyes so far in these your present Greatnesses, as to read this Paper: Peruse this last time the Characters of your formerly not forlorn EMERINO, who appears before you not in the posture of a Lover, but of an humble Servant, rejoicing to see you raised to that sublime degree of Dignity; to which your adorable Conditions, and my perverse Fortune hath raised you: For, my Fortune hath been miserably unfortunate. But may your Glories be daily greater, though they cost me my Life, if my Sorrows may not suffice; for I will never grieve thereat. Neither do I now complain for that seconding the destiny and the immenseness of your Merit, you have forsaken me to bestow yourself upon a King: Yet must I needs be afflicted, to see myself so unexpectedly abandoned by you, who by your Nuptials in vain long pretended unto by me, are now going to make another happy. Go notwithstanding accompanied with all imaginable prosperity. May your Husband love you, the Nobles of your Kingdom reverence you, the People bow unto you, the Heavens make your Womb fruitful, and fill your Soul with Mirth: For my part, I shall remain amidst my tormenting Passions, bewailing my being deprived of all Consolation, save in as far as my Afflictions prove the Effects of your felicity.  
Your most humble Servant, EMERINO.  
This Letter caused some compassion in Nissena, yet not such as to be sensibly afflicted therewith: First, for that there had never been any such correspondency in love between her and Emerino, as though but in the condition of a private Lady, might have necessitated her to be his: next, because her heart was so possessed with content and ambition, as that it was incapable of any other passion. In fine, great preferments, if they do not totally change, they do at least very much alter the minds of whosoever they be, much more a woman's mind who suffers herself easily to be carried away by Pride. After a few days she went from Rhodes towards Cyprus, much honoured by Fermondo, courted by many Ladies and Cavaliers, and accompanied by her kindred, a Gentleman being before sent from the Ambassadors to Thoas to acquaint him with their retun, and with their bringing a Beauty with them which they thought really worthy of him. He received the tidings with much content, though he had long kept his bed through much sickness. Causing his Cousin Doralbo to be called unto him (who was brother to the deceased Almira, and being ill dealt with by nature as being the third son, could no ways pretend to his Father's Crown, and therefore entertained himself there in Thoas his Service) He commanded him to see four Galleys forthwith put in order, well furnished with Arms, and that accompanied as became him, he should prepare to go aboard, and in his stead to meet the new Queen. The Prince did immediately obey the King's Commands in all points, who charging him to make all haste he could back, bad him farewell, and the mean while minded with all possible care his recovery: but being oppressed all the next night with an unwilling, and unwelcome inward melancholy, he grew much worse, and was found by the Physicians the next day in a high fit of a fever, these were the presages which foretold him that some other body was ordained to espouse Nissena. Our souls (as I believe) partaking of Divinity, foresees, though obscurely and by unknown means, as well our prosperous as our fatal successes, every one having within him a certain beam or sparkle of Prophetical light, either more or less, according to the several Organs which subserve the understanding.  
Doralboes Galleys being this mean while favoured by prosperous winds, and by a quiet calm, came within two days in ken of the Ambassadors Galleys. Great expressions of joy were made on all sides; the air was rend in two with the thunder of Canon, with the musical noise of Trumpet and Drums, which were answered by the remote echoes, reverberating applauses to the glory of Nissena, filled the Navigators hearts with joy▪ The Vessels being come nearer, one did put forth from the midst of those of Doralbo's, which at first was thought to be a small Pinnace, & was afterwards found to be a large Schalop, richly trimmed with purest silver, and of such a greatness as it contained within the Concave bosom thereof a Venus accompanied by Cupid, who in a smiling and rejoicing manner expressed his extraordinary gladness, by the frequent clapping and beating of his wings. The sumptuous Engine being come so near the Galley wherein Nissena was, as that the voice might be heard, the air was filled with such sweet music, as the winds withholding themselves at such melody, breathed nothing but such airs as proceeded from the Goddess her inspired mouth, who made it plainly appear that she had learned the harmony of the Spheres. The words of the ditty said, That the Crown of Cyprus was more due to Nissena then to Venus, who did as well yield up unto her the Government of the Kingdom, as she did the prize of Beauty. The two principal Galleys of either side boarding one another, Doralbo was he who first hasted to prostrate himself before Nissena, as Queen, he being followed by twelve young Ladies, six Matrons, and four and twenty Cavaliers, so richly attired as refined Gold was the least considerable material thereof: great store of footmen and pages in sumptuous liveries were not wanting, who when they first saw Nissena, fell all upon their knees at a good distance off, whereunto she corresponded with such Majesty as she seemed to be born, not assumed to a Sceptre. The Prince leading her by the arm, she passed into his Galley, which being covered on the outside from the Poop to the fore deck with gold and Crystal, with sails of Purple silk, and lined within with green Arras intermingled and bordered about with gold, appeared a stupendious spectacle to the eye. The lighting of Artillery, and the noise of Canon troubling and deafening the air; which voluminous smoke and vain glorious noise, proved that praises given to human greatness are nothing else in reality but wind and smoke. Amongst so many lovely and admirable objects, there was none more worthy of sight, or which took the eye more than the fair Nissena, who was the boundeur of all sight, the wonder of all minds, and caused agitation in all hearts: her decent affability, fitting vivacity, gracious comportment without affectation, and her majestical aspect without severity, increased love and reverence towards her in every one. They came happily within sight of Cyprus, where they were forced to stay at Anchor half a day and a whole night by reason of a Westerly Wind which blew from land a little too briskly; at last they entered the Haven early the next morning, where all those signs of welcome, and both public and private demonstrations of duty, and rejoicing which are accustomarily used either by way of flattery or respect, by subjects towards their Sovereigns did abound. Nothing was wanting but the presence of the King, who though cured, yet oppressed by melancholy, could not abandon his bed; the skilfullest Physicians not knowing whether to attribute the cause to any outward or inward disorder. He affirmed he found his heart oppressed and overcome by extremity of content, it being incapable of so immense a joy, and thus taking but little nourishment he rested unquietly in the night season, and in the day time was troubled with strange distractions of mind; yet variety of solemn sports and public feasts were not forgotten: wherein it was observed by the wiser sort as a prodigy of future evils, that a guilded wooden statue of the Kings was unavoidably burnt to ashes, the manner how or cause why being never able to be learned. Nissena considered these inauspicious occurrences, and seeing the serenity of her fortune thus troubled at the very first beginning, she was highly therewithal afflicted, yet did she with all the care she could, conceal her inward sorrow from others. After five days space the face of affairs altered, the King foregoing his bed, with a pretty competency of health, and perfect cheerfulness, who visited by his Bride, at the first encounter of her brightest countenance, was like to die for mere Joy; she appeared handsomer unto him than he could have conceived her to be, so as quite altered even to his very voice, he met her and with open arms embraced her, affectionately saying, Welcome my dearest delight in whom I am to be happy. Good Gods! of whom have the Rhodian Mothers learned to bring forth daughters so beautiful? blessed be the hour my dear Nissena that first brought thee into the world, blessed be those swaddling clouts wherein thou were't bound, those breasts that gave thee suck, but more blessed be that Fortune which gave thee into my possession: I will be King of Cyprus, and thou shalt be my Queen. Not uttering one word, she answered with the tongue of bashfulness, which shown her to be no less fair within then without. The King making her afterwards sit down by his side, Pressing hard and often kissing her hand, asked her divers questions, to which she answered with such modesty, as he might easily discern the vivacity of her wit, and the wisdom of her understanding. Had not the many consultations of the learned Doctors who tended his cure denied him, he would that night have celeberated his Marriage with his beloved. Great is the misery of great ones, who can seldom compass what they most covet, it not being in their will to eat, or take their delight, according to their own pleasure, but by the good liking of such as do either flatter them, or such as would seem wise, and who do sometime hate their contentments. The Physicians ordered that Thoas should keep a spare but nourishing diet for a good many days, and that he should be kept from hearing of any news, or from seeing of any thing which might encumber his mind with any sort of affection or passion. He punctually obeyed them desirous to be soon rid of their rigour; every hour appearing an age unto him till he should be made happy in the Embraces of his Nissena.  
The King's recovery of his health, together with the approaching celebration of his marriage, did so rejoice his subjects, as the whole Kingdom gave public and private testimony of their gladsomness. Bonfires, and Fireworks by night, Baales, Tilting, Attorneys, Barriers, theatres, and Scenes were every where had with much sumptuousness. The Queen being present at the greatest part of them, was by the judgement of all men still the most praised and most admired object; which Doralbo did prove and approve of more than any other, who from that fatal minute that he saw her, taken with her beauty, fell mightily in love with her, his flames being the more hot and devouring, by how much he kept them the more concealed; he burned, and knowing the inconvenience and rashness of his fire, he had oft and in sundry wise endeavoured to extinguish, at least to appease it. His own heart was only conscious thereof, he durst not so much as sigh, lest being discovered by the winds, they might communicate his ardency to the ambiating air. If sometimes his looks did in the presence of the beloved Nissena, betray the secret of his thoughts, by suffering themselves to feed too greedily upon her reverenced beauty, he had a punishment ready prepared for them, by making them fall languishing and without life upon the ground: he durst neither aspire unto, nor hope for correspondency, the one and the other of them being unlawful and dangerous; he loved, and knew not to what end, unless it were to suffer under torment. Whilst he consumed away amidst these painful straits, it happened that waiting one afternoon upon the Queen (on whom by the Kings command he continually attended) in the little Court of Statues, so called by reason of the abundance of stately Sculptures wherewith it was adorned, he stood with her, accompanied with some few Ladies, beholding the statue of Hercules embracing Anteus, cut out in stone, when they might hear from the neighbouring parts a noise of out-cries and weapons; at the same time came in a groom of the stable with a face as pale as Death, who cried out aloud, Fly, Fly and save yourselves, for a fierce Tiger escaped from the usual enclosed place wherein he was kept, roaves hereabouts, killing and destroying as many as he meets withal; save yourselves, I say, for he will be shortly in this Court, and we shall be all avoidable dead. The Women with their outcries, the Men with their swords in hand, but all of them affrighted and confused, ran some one way some another, seeking how to escape the danger which threatened them so sorely. Only dauntless Doralbo, gripping hard his Sword, and looking upon Nissena whom he might see look pale, holding her hands out towards him to implore aid; said, Be not afraid Madam, the fiercest Tigers of Hercania, came they all in a Troop, much less this one, shall not offend you, whilst you have Doralbo by your side: May my death prove your safeguard, dear Madam: For how happy shall he be to die for you once only, who doth so daily? This being said, he went hastily to defend the entrance into the little Court, where he had not been long, when he might see one come running, who could scarcely draw his breath; who with much ado told, how the unwary Beast following the trace of a Mastiff Dog which he had wounded, was got into a house, the Windows whereof being well furnished with strong iron Bars, and the gate well fortified and shut by a Soldier more courageous and wise then were the rest, was there made a prisoner, having slain only his keeper, and two of the Warders. At the hearing of this happy news every one took breath, and a number of armed men coming in, they were by Doralbo dismissed to their several employments, whilst he, the Ladies, and the other Gentlemen stood discoursing with the Queen of the danger which they had escaped. Being waited upon to her lodging, she observed how the Prince, taking leave at his parting from her, fixed a look in her eyes, which though it were but momentary, and as it were by stealth, seemed as if it said, I for the present depart from you my adored lights, but I leave all my thoughts deposited with you. At this instant she called to mind the words which he let fall in the little Court, then when he exhorted her not to be afraid of the Tiger; and though at first she understood them only as a compliment from a Generous and Noble Prince, yet remembering that she had heard him say, It should be happy for him to die for her once only, for whom he died daily: She thought the words tasted more of affection then compliment. Thus from his words and from his looks she drew two infallible conclusions that he was in love with her; and though as then she showed no signs of liking, yet was she not scandalised with his love, every woman being desirous to be beloved, if not out of wantonness, yet out of ambition; she resolved notwithstanding to curb that in him which she judged rather to be a motion or custom of youth, than an affection grounded in so short a time. The King quit her of these thoughts, who came to rejoice with her for her having happily escaped the late danger she was in, he had understod the business from Doralbo, who waiting upon him to the Queen's lodgings (he never omitting any occasion of being where she was) sighed to see himself received by her with a less pleasing countenance, & more grave manner then accustomed, he presently called to mind the words which had escaped his mouth through the force of his affection then when he prepared with hazard of his own life to save hers from the Tiger's imminent fury, judging she might have taken offence thereat; so as he had no sooner waited upon the King, but that retiring himself into his Closet, full of passion and grief, he threw himself down upon a Couch, and fixing his eyes upon the ground, he by many deep-fetcht-sighes, ushered in these lamentations.  
Unfortunate Doralbo! What heinous fault hast thou committed? What was this thy rashness? Why didst thou presume so much? Audacious tongue, why did not I rather pluck thee from out my throat, then suffer thee to say in the presence of Nissena, That I die daily for her? Alas! the fault was neither thine nor mine; I did not then think to discover my affection, neither didst thou intent to speak it: 'Twas my heart which without advising with my understanding, did dictate those words unto thee: 'tis thou my heart who were't the Traitor: I certainly would never have said it, nor will I ever say it more, I will rather die a thousand times. He would have lamented longer, had not his excessive grief by making him almost senseless, hindered him from saying more. So as after having a long while with much perturbance of mind nourished his sufferings and fancies, he called in his servants, and making himself unready, he feigning to be weary, went to bed. What rest he took that night, let them tell it for me, who trained up in the School of Love, have real affections, and know what torments such accidents do cause. He slept but a little, & if sometimes though but for a very small space he stole a nap, he forthwith seemed to have Nissena before him, who much incensed, and in a threatening manner reproved his rashness. As he would have prostrated himself before her feet to ask her pardon, he awakened, and found himself void of the hopes of ask, much more of obtaining it. His body and mind were sorely agitated all the night, save that towards the break of day falling asleep, he dreamed he saw a very handsome young woman, clothed all in green, who seemed smilingly to say unto him, Awake from sleep and sorrow dull Doralbo, for Nissena attends thee, pursue to serve and love with loyalty and constancy; for after the tempests of thy troubles, thy love shall find a ealm and quiet Haven to rest in. This being said, the pleasing shadow vanished, and he somewhat eased of his vexatious thoughts, leapt out of bed, and as soon as he was ready, he hasted to the Queen's Antichamber, where desirous to visit her, and to wish her a good day, he was answered otherwise then formerly, that he must be pleased to attend a while, till such time as her women had dressed her head, and put on her Jewels. This was a deadly wound to the soul of the suspicious Prince, & yet he patiently & obediently observed her commands, not giving any the least show of disturbance. As he this mean while walked with her Lord Chamberlain, the Lord Angria, he wondered to hear himself thus spoken unto by the Baron. What thinks your Highness, Sir, of the strange accidents which happened the last night? and what strange accidents, replied Doralbo? I know nothing save only that somewhat wearied I hasted to bed sooner than usual, and was all night troubled with a thousand dreams and fantasies. Do you mock me, replied the Baron? and looking Doralbo in the face, and finding his looks to express rather a desire of information than any mockery, he pressed him again, saying, Do not you indeed know what befell the Queen? At these words the Prince could not but seem somewhat troubled; his blood hastening presently from his heart to his face, so as with a panting heart he added, I vow unto you upon the word of a Prince, I know nothing; but I beseech you acquaint me quickly with it. It was not yet two a clock at night (said the Baton) when one of my Footmen gave me divers letters directed to the Queen, which I presently conveyed unto her: much time was not past, when she, molested in mind, caused her Aunt Eurania to be called unto her, and presently afterward those two Gentlemen her Cousin-germen, who had accompanied her from Rhodes, and having given express order, that no one whosoever should be suffered to come in, she entertained herself a good while in discourse with them. I was afterwards willed that by all means possible I should acquaint the King, that his humblest servant Nissena, did most earnestly desire that his Majesty would immediately afford her audience. I was much astonished at the hearing hereof, but I had nothing to do but to obey.  
The King had beta'en himself to his rest, which notwithstanding he gave command that the Queen might be permitted to enter whensover she pleased; who accompanied by her Aunt and her two Cousins, entered the King's Chamber, and in a reverend, but very sad manner kneeled down before his Majesty's bed, who had raised himself up to welcome her, and confounding her words with her tears and sobs, she thus expressed her inward sorrow; I very well knew since my first coming from Rhodes, O Thoas, how unworthy I was to be your wife; but I knew not, nor could I imagine it possible, that a King whose fame is so glorious throughout the whole world, would go about to abuse a poor silly young Maid, who though she be not descended from Kings, hath yet in her the blood of the no ignoble house of the Marquis of Falerno, who at all times and upon all occasions have always preferred their honour before their lives: Such a one was I born, as I can very well by my death wash away with my blood any the least shadows of shame which may hitherto have sullied my reputation. When I came to Cyprus, I came in condition of your Majesty's wife, not of your Concubine, yourself knows it full well, The Kingdoms of Cyprus and of Rhodes knows it: If I have been strangely deceived, I am no ways guilty of the deceit: I might justly deserve all manner of punishment, and might be esteemed guilty, if I should tarry any longer here, whither being come to live as your servant and consort, I am advertised I must live your whore. Sir! I beg your leave to be gone: suffer me, O King, to return to that Climate where people are born as innocent as here, for in case you should not permit me so to do, I shall send my soul somewhither else.  
He who had all this while with a confused and troubled aspect patiently listened unto her, being able to hold no longer, cried out, What dreams be these my Queen? who is that hath possessed you with these apprehensions, injurious to my Crown and to your merit? since when is it that you have been my Concubine, and not my true wife? Listen unto me. If ever I was possessed with thought any ways the least prejudicial to you, and if I be any ways conscious, or but consenting in very imagination to what you mention, let the heavens hurl down thunder upon me, let me be punished by Omnipotency, let the earth swallow me up, and may hell take me. I, who have always preserved my faith inviolable to all men, shall I maculate it to your prejudice, who next my Honour, are the only object for whom I would yield up my Kingdom, shed my blood, and lose my life? Is it I that must betray you? have not my past actions sufficiently witnessed to the whole World (and to yourself, which troubles me most) the candour and integrity of my soul? O if I shall ever know who that wretched villain is, that hath plotted these my vexations, my revenge shall make him an example to all ages. For what remains, be of good comfort my Nissena, for you shall soon see that you have been deceived in thinking yourself deceived by me who honour you. Or you shall be Queen of Cyprus, or I will lay down the Sceptre thereof. Reach me pen & paper. Then calling in for divers Noble men & Gentlemen of the Court, & me amongst the rest, he in their presence underwit a blank paper and signing it with his Regal Seal, take this, said he, my Queen. Writ in this whatever ties or agreements you shall think fit to ratify our marriage; and if I do ever deceive Nissena, be you all witnesses to the whole world of my infamy, and declare me unworthy either to Reign or live. At these lively expressions of true affection and candid Loyalty, the Queen for awhile stood immovable; then weeping for tenderness, she obsequiously took the King's hand in hers, and humbly kissing it, said; Pardon me Sir, for I am betrayed: pardon I beseech you the offence which you might justly take at me for suffering myself to be too easily persuaded that you were guilty of a fault which now I see to have been so far from your magnanimous and Princely heart. This, Sir, was that that betrayed me, and therewithal she gave him a Letter which she had received in the Packet from Rhodes, the sense whereof was: That a personage much affectionate to her, compassionating that misfortune which had carried her from her father's house, & from her country, to the end that in her so flourishing age, and endowed with so great beauty and worth she was likely to be grossly abused and deceived by another's barbarous lust, he was resolved through pity of her misfortunes to adverise her, that Thoas feigning by specious ways and pretences to take her to be his wife, nourishing her with vain hopes, would enjoy her as a whore. That he did the rather acquaint her with these proceed, since by doing so he did second the will of Heaven, which having till than afflicted the King with sickness, showed how it did abhor his mischievous machinations; but that being now recovered he would not be long in bereaving her of her virginity. That she should therefore speedily fly from Cyprus if she would keep that reputation untainted which had for so many ages made famous the House of Falerno, or if she desired to render herself glorious for having wisely deluded the lustful ends of a treacherous King. Thou art the wicked Traitor, who e'er thou art, cried Thoas, who possessed with I know not what Infernal fury, indeavourest to subvert my quiet: but if I may ever know who thou art, thy head shall justly pay for these thy base and infamous stratagems. Then observing the Letter to be without a name or date; O, Nissena, said he, you were too easy in crediting the slightness of a Letter written by one who was ashamed to own it! if every one would believe such deceitful Letters, the way would be made too easy for wicked men by their inventions to undo the World. Their minds are blinded who credit a blind paper when it contains no Truths which do appear palpable to the sense, or visible to the eye. I will not notwithstanding for this time chide you: Return unto your Lodgings comforted, and secure of my Faith. She trembling all over, alleged many reasons for her too easy belief, at last confessing it to be a fault, she as a favour, begged either to be punished or pardoned by the King, who dismissing her with a kiss, sent for two of his privy Councillors and long discussed the matter with them: it was resolved that it was worthy of no small consideration, since the endeavour tended to the diverting of his Majesty's Marriage, upon which the succession depending, it consequently ensued that some one or other, out of some important ends, were glad to see the Crown without issue: though it afterwards appeared that they were evidently unwise, who had in their vast thoughts gone about to hinder Nissena's Marriage, whilst it was not likely that the King would want other Wives, to whose marriage so many great Princesses had aspired, and in particular two daughters of the dreaded King Nicaster of Loria: 'twas thought that some of the chief men of Rhodes in love with Nissena, might out of an amorous desperation, have endeavoured so vain an enterprise, but whosoever it were, his Majesty was to learn by this small accident, to have a better eye upon any the least occurrences than he formerly had had: The manner of the character and the paper being afterwards considered, the first was unkn own to them all, the latter was known by the mark to be made in Cyprus. I being somewhat severely questioned from whom I had received those packets which I had caused to be delivered to the Queen, answered, from one of my footmen, who being suddenly sent for, affirmed that they were given unto him at the first entrance into the Hall, by one whose habit spoke him to be a Mariner, and that he said he had received them from the Master of a Pinnace of Rhodes, who was come the day before into the Haven, with express command to take order that they might be delivered at the Court. The Master of the Pinnace being found at his Lodging, he was forthwith imprisoned, and threatened with the Rack: being mastered by fear, he answered a thousand things little to the purpose to what was asked him, so that all that they could draw from him was, that the Letters which he brought from Rhodes, were given him at his coming from thence by a kinsman of his who was a servant to the Family of the Marquis of Falerno. He was notwithstanding still detained in prison, till the King's further pleasure should be known, which was, that he should suffer torture: Prince Doralbo at the recital hereof suffered inwardly divers agitations of mind; and asked many questions of the Baron, that he might punctually inform himself of every the least particular. It was no wonder if he appeared passionately curious, whilst an interest was treated of, wherein his heart was concerned; but he was interrupted by the arrival of one of the Gentlemen of Thoas his Chamber, who gave order in his Majesty's name, that the Queen should be informed, that at her best leisure she might go to the Temple to assist at the Sacrifices which were to precede her marriage. Doralbo taking his leave of the Baron of Angria, went to the King's Lodgings, who by reason of his last nights waking, or perhaps through the agitation of his mind, had a very sore fit of a Fever, and having done his obeisance to him, the King asked him how he did, saying, I would not trouble your rest the last night, understanding that being weary, you had made more haste to bed then usual; but you must this morning take some pains for me. Be it your care that you command the Lord precedent in my name, that he publicly in the Temple Marry Nissena in my behalf, since it pleaseth the Gods to deny me the happiness of enjoying her; and that when he shall have Crowned her Queen, he do in the name of all my Vassals swear fealty to her, whilst I the mean while wrestle with the fit that is come upon me. The rest I took (said Doralbo) was in an unlucky hour, since it hindered me from serving your Majesty, whereat I am much grieved; I wish I could as well suffer those pains instead of you, which you now undergo, as your goodness assures me that you will accept of my present readiness to serve you, in amends for the fault unwillingly committed of not waiting upon your Majesty the last night. This being said, the Prince went to obey the King's commands. Mintanrus, a man of mean birth, of a great understanding, quick at the managing of Affairs, but proud, and of a strangely turbulent and seditious mind was then Lord Precedent; to which degree of honour his riches had brought him, by means whereof he married a great Lady, and wrought himself into a very noble kindred, and so got into favour and preferment with the King. His wife died when she had brought him a son named Melaspus, who by reason of his rash and troublesome conditions, was the scandal of all Nicosia, though his ranting, and his Father's Authority made him be feared and reverenced by all men. Mintaurus was one of those who was displeased at Thoas his resolution of marrying Nissena; so as hearing himself commanded by the King to marry her in his behalf, and having Crowned her, to swear Fealty to her in the name of all the people, he could not forbear giving some testimonies of displeasure; yet not making any reply, he buckeled himself to the business, crafty Doralbo was ware of it, but without more ado went to wait on her, from whose rigid or pleasing countenance he with a beating & doubtful heart expected the Destiny of his affection. She came forth, and by her indifferent comportment made him know that he was not more particularly favoured by her than were others, but rather in somewhat a careless and disdainful manner studied to keep her eyes from encountering with his; neither did she so often smile upon him as formerly she had done.  
Unfortunate Doralbo! with how many Darts was thy soul pierced? He assisted at the Sacrifices, and forgetting the sacred Altars, he adored that Idol, from whom instead of favours he expected killing frowns. Nissena being married by Mintaurus, and crowned Queen, she returned to the Palace, and desired she might have leave to visit her husband, and to thank him for having raised her to that degree whereby she was for ever bound to be his Servant and Companion. But he being in the height of his Fit, was not in a condition to receive any Embassy that day; no not so much as visits. The next night he grew better, and took some rest; so as the next morning he was able to get out of Bed, and to dine with his Queen, feeding much more greedily with his eyes then with his mouth. The Court was full of banqueting and contentment: Only Prince Doralbo,, though he knew it misbecame him not to appear more joyfulll then usual among these universal rejoicings, could not keep the sad Ensigns of inward melancholy from appearing in his pale face, which fretted him even to the heart: his extraordinary sadness being perceived by all, the Queen not many days after was also ware thereof, to boot that it was commonly whispered about by the Ladies and Gentlemen. She had compassion on him, and to give him some comfort, and since the cause of so great a melancholy might not for a long time be seen into, she began by degrees to be more gracious unto him, sometimes cheering him with pleasing smiles, sometimes with partial looks, so as shortly returning to his former vivacity, he became not only cheerful as before, but was the joy and delight of the whole Court. O the fondness of vain Lovers, who think themselves made happy by a smile or look, which sometimes is but casual, and not willingly conferred, and perhaps sometimes not without fraud; and are again made miserable by another look, which they interpret as scorn, or ingratitude, which may peradventure be a cunning invitation to spur them on to be more ardent in their loves. Nissena imparted these favours unto him so as they were no ways prejudicial to the cand or of her faith which she had plighted and vowed to Thoas: For from the time she had ta'en upon her the yoke of marriage (though it were not yet consummate) not so much as one misbecoming thought sullied the inward purity of that breast which witnessed outwardly immaculate innocency. She, I know not whether out of favour to him, or solicited by her natural genius to read books of Chivalry, desired him to provide her some fitting for her to read, that she might pass away the tedious hours of that season which was now hotter than usual, though it was always very hot under the Climate of Cyprus. He interpreted the honour of this command as a favour from the prodigal Heavens; and his understanding being enlightened by blind love, which infuseth subtlety into the most rough hewn minds, much more into such as are quick and airy; he furnished her with many books, the leaves whereof he had in some places cunningly turned down, where amorous affections are by ingenious Writers expressed, whereby he discovered his passions to her who was their adored occasion. Nissena being quick of understanding, finding Doralbo's cunning, restored back his books unto him, folded down in like manner in other leaves, whereby he might understand and receive such answers, as sometimes excited hope in him, sometimes reproved him of boldness. The modest Lover was herewithal so fully satisfied, as he pretended to no other food or reward of his love. The King this mean while would needs have the Queen (who was now satiated with Feasts, Turnys, and Tilt) honour a Theatre with her presence, whereon the Marquis of Martasses, who with great fervency had desired this favour, caused an excellent Stage-play to be acted. She went thither, having on her a vesture given her that day by her husband, contrived and woven with Amianto, a precious stone which is spun like thread; of which, as of other Jewels and Minerals, the Mines of Cyprus are very fruitful; so as Beams being cast abroad on every side by the reverberation of lights, which enlightened the Theatre, Nissena seemed to be the Sun of Beauty. Poor Doralbo! How many and how great splendours were't thou to resist, to keep the eyes of thy mind undazeled? The Play took all the Auditory exceedingly, being represented with stately Scenes and inventions, suitable to the Marquis his generous mind; but the Prince was chief pleased, (because it made most for his purpose) with the fall of an unfortunate Lover, who desperately threw himself from the top of a Mountain into the Sea, and to all appearance seemed to be therein drowned. Nissena was a little moved at this spectacle, as she witnessed, by saying, Poor wretch! Since thou were't only guilty of too much love, thou didst not deserve so miserable a death. Doralbo let not this occasion slip without making his use of it, being already become so bold, as he durst reply unto the Queen, Good Gods! How is it possible your Majesty should commiserate one drowned in the water, and not be any thing at all concerned in him who is consumed in flames? And who is he (replied she) who is thus consumed? I see none hereabouts environed with fire. Ah (said the Prince with a trembling voice) you see him too well, but will not vouchsafe to look upon him. 'Tis I that am that wretch, who in love with you, would a thousand times have breathed forth my Soul, had not my life been miraculously preserved by your more than humane Image, which is imprinted in my Heart. Disdain not, O my Goddess, that I adore you; for I know how to do it, without any blemish to your honour, prejudice to your reputation, or offence to my Sovereign Lord Thoas, I pretend to nothing else, nor do I ought desire, but that I may be permitted to adore you whilst I shall live, and that you will suffer it without disdain; I will do what becomes your greatness, and my condition; be not you therewithal scandalized, most mighty Queen, if you would have me live. And here, with a broken sigh, he stopped, expecting his sentence of life or of death from the mouth of his beloved. She somewhat blushing, answered, That if the love he talked of were of any other temper then what he had said, he might do well to leave the vain and rash enterprise of loving her; but that if it were true that he knew to love like a true Prince, and Gentleman, in terms circumscribed within the confines of that integrity and faith, which she intended to preserve immaculate to her husband, she was pleased with his affection, and that he might rest assured of like correspondency in her, whilst his thoughts should continue thus modest.  
These were the beginnings of that Love which not knowing how to get entrance into her chaste bosom, went thus by piecemeal insinuating itself insensibly into her heart. Thou shalt shortly see Nissena and be ware that affections enter our souls as it were by stealth, that they may afterwards in process of time become Tyrants. These discourses might pass freely between them without being observed or listened unto, the Queen's chair being placed somewhat high, and the Prince standing close by her on foot, whose soul was so filled with joy upon this lucky encounter, as whereas formerly he perished through affliction, he now was almost killed with content; which was a little lessened in him, by hearing how that Thoas, who grew daily better in his health, would by consummation of his marriage, reap Nissena's Virginity; and though the knowledge of the unjustness of this his disquiet did in a great measure mitigate his for row, yet did it not keep him from such an agitation of mind as did embitter all his contentment. The King who seemed to be on the mending hand, and almost perfectly recovered, did much solicit the Physicians, that he might now be permitted freely to embrace his beloved wife within his arms, which they had promised him to give way unto within four days; in which interim of time he fell into a dangerous relapse, with very small hope of ever recovering. There came unto his Majesty likewise at this time, an express dispatch away in haste from the Consuls of the Town of Siari, informing him, that great part of the Soldiery of the Commonwealth of Famagosta had in an insolent and barbarous manner begun to prejudice them, by killing their men and firing their Country, which caused them to fly unto the wisdom and valour of his Majesty for succour and reparation to these great evils. That many of their neighbours and Soldiers drawn out of the adjacent Garrisons, had valiantly opposed the Enemy; but that 'twas hard for a few men without any Commanders in chief, or good Warlike Discipline, long to resist a multitude of armed men, provided with all things fitting to fight. That they had not as yet taken any Walled Towns, but only two Villages, wherein they had fortified themselves, and went on destroying the corn which was already almost ripe throughout all those fruitful fields.  
The King was highly afflicted at this news, presaging this to be the praeludium of his death, so as calling together his Council of State that morning, after they had considered the business, 'twas jointly resolved, that all possible forces should be presently raised to resist these first insolences; That the mean while order and consultation should be taken for all Occurrences, and that the King should in his due time name the Heads and chief Commanders of the Army, the charge of providing Arms was conferred upon the Count Angebertus of Monagria, with Orders that the King's Exchequer being immediately opened, the Drums should beat up, and people should be taken into pay, who joined to the other Soldiers that were in Garrison, and such as might be drawn out of the Galleys, without much weakening the Maritin forces, should be ready to march at an hours warning: in a short space an Army was raised of 8000 foot and 2500 horse, all of them Soldiers well enough appointed, but little experienced in Military affairs, for not only the Arms, but the very minds of the whole Kingdom were as it were rusted over by means of long peace. Prince Doralbo was by the King declared General. Filarbo, one of Nissena's Cousins, Lieutenant General, and his Brother Theocastro General of the Horse. Other Commands and Places were conferred to other Noblemen and Gentlemen according to the King's pleasure, who knew very well the worth and abilities of all his Subjects. At the very instant that Doralbo received the place of General, he began to exercise his Command, fight against his own thoughts, which in a rebellious manner began to mutiny against him. He esteemed that preferment a misery, not an honour, which by keeping him far from Nissena, divided him from himself: but knowing that of necessity he was presently to obey, he prepared for departure, not forgetting to thank the King's munificence for so great a dignity conferred upon him, and protesting that to show himself in some sort worthy thereof, he would upon all occasions be ready to oppose his breast to the enemy's Weapons. Nissena found herself touched with an affection not formerly known unto her: For though she thought she had loved nothing in the Prince but his worth, she was then ware that she likewise loved his presence, not being able to imagine him in the wars, (where he might notwithstanding exercise that valour which she thought the only object of his soul) without great trouble. The fatal hour of departing approached, and the Prince was already called upon by the Trumpets, when taking his leave of Thoas with a mind much confused, he went to kiss her hand, who could not so much suppress the inward resentments of her soul, but that they appeared visibly by her often changing countenance. Few were the words which they spoke to one another; but they vied whose eyes should speak most. Nissena, (far from her own belief) as she turned her face from the Prince, saying, God be with you, and be sure you return; was enforced to wipe the tears from off her eyes, which would have fallen in abundance, had not her wisdom withheld them. In fine, their griefs were equal. Whilst the Army is on its march towards Liuri, let us see what it was that made Famagosta, which had formerly faithfully paid Tribute to the Crown of Cyprus, wage war against Thoas; and that some particulars may be the better known, let us understand how the whole Island being subject to Kingly power, this only part was then governed Aristocratically by the name of a Commonwealth.  
The issue of that famous Ptolemy who built those four Cities which were called Arsinoe, being all dead, nine of the chief Lords of Cyprus divided the Kingdom amongst them, and for a while ruled by the Title of Petty Kings. Affroditius, the powerfullest amongst them, occasioned by his death, the subversion of that divided Empire, whilst dispute arising which of the rest should succeed to the command of that part of the Crown which was now vacant, Byamartes, the most valiant, not to say the most rash, endeavoured, and did therein succeed, to get the possession thereof by force of Arms. His natural desire of enlarging his confines, not being herewithal satisfied, being beyond measure gallant, and as wise as he needed to be, he took from five of the others their little Sceptres: and the other two fortifying themselves in the City of Famagosta, seated upon the banks of the Sirian sea, and having received recruits of Men and Victuals from Soria, made Biamartes despair of overcoming them by force of Arms: he betook himself to plots and stratagems, which proved all vain. Retiring from the siege, he still ruminated how he might make himself master of Famagosta, without which his glory and dominion seemed to be imperfect and cut short. He advised hereupon so long, as at last he pitched upon an enterprise, which by how much more dangerous it was, so much was the event thereof more successful: if out of no other reason, perhaps because Fortune hath always been observed to be as favourable to Rashness, as an enemy to Wisdom. He chose twelve of his most valiant and adventurous Soldiers, and making them be apparelled Country-like, some like simple foot Soldiers, some like mercenary Artificers, and some like Mechanic Plebcians; He willed them to get into Famagosta under several pretences, and to tarry there in expectation of his coming; who soon after having cut short, and altered the colour of his hair and beard, went thither in a flovenly manner, and Shepheardlike apparel, loaded with greasy Wool. His intention was to expose himself to all danger, so as he might kill those two petty Kings who hindered him from entirely possessing that Kingdom, which without that City seemed to his ambition but a Body that had some joint lopped off. He imagined that either he or some of his getting into the Courts of those petty Kings, might possibly come to mingle poison (whereof each of them was well provided) amidst their meats: or else by night to bring such a of powder into the lower Vaults of the Palace, as might suffice to blow up the Walls thereof, wherewithal both to kill and bury his enemies at once. If nothing else should succeed, he should learn the exact quantity of the people, their plenty or penury of Ammunition, the condition of their Soldiery, their inward provisions and fortifications of the City; and finally all such occurrences as might facilitate unto him the way how to take that City by storm, which he could not do by stratagem. He determined and performed; but if he went to vanquish, he was vanquished, though the loss did at the last occasion his Victory. His feigned condition of a Shepherd getting him access without suspicion into all places, he made use thereof to pry into all particulars which might conduce to the execution of his designs. Being one morning invited by his curiosity to see the inside of a sumptuous Palace (the great men of Cyprus using in those days freely to permit every one to enter their habitations) he stepped into a garden, and gazing upon a side of the House which was all made of purest Marble, he might see a Woman sitting upon a little rise of a Hill drying her wet black hair at the Sun beams. She sitting a good while still, and seeing one look fixtly on her in a habit which made her believe him to be some simple Country Clown, who dazzled with her more than usual beauty, stood greedily gazing on her, broke forth into a loud laughter, and said unto him, What is't you look so earnestly upon Companion? Did you never see a woman before? Yes Lady, said he, I have seen other women, but never any of so exquisite a Beauty. Look thy belly full upon me then, said she; whilst a Gentlewoman came with an Ivory Comb, to put her hair in order, Biamartes forgetting what personage he represented, had almost by speeches and behaviour befitting his true condition and mind, discovered himself to have nothing in him of Clownish, but his apparel. But knowing how much it imported him to be taken for what he appeared to be, he began with divers senseless words and speeches to little purpose, masked over with simplicity, to move them to laughter, who had delighted a good while to make themselves merry with him. At last they departed from the little rise of the Hill, and he went out of the Palace so far in love with this Lady, as he found it much a harder matter to withstand his own thoughts, then to fight a numerous Army.  
'Twas a wonder that being blinded by love, he could yet see that he could hope for no success, neither in his martial affairs by the death of his Enemies, nor yet in his love. Wherefore he wisely resolved to leave Famagosta, where he had reaped nothing but the loss of his heart, and the having exposed himself to the evident danger of his life, liberty and renown which he had won at such expense of valour. He left the City, as did severally those that depended on him; except one of the craftiest amongst them, who by his command stayed to pry into the proceed of the petty Kings, and to discover that Lady's condition whose merit had wrought upon a King's affection. Byamartes perceived afterwards how rash his enterprise was: but according to the custom of great ones, yea of all such as have been favoured by fortune, he attributed that to the goodness of his own wit, which was the mere gift of a friendly fortune. He ceased not this mean while, at a great expense of treasure, and the full extent of his power, to raise all such men and arms as he could, to assault Famagosta again, which being impossible to be besieged on that side towards the sea, was not to be taken but by assault. Though he were busied about so hard an enterprise, yet could he not forget her who had robbed him of his heart, but thirsted the more to make himself master of the City. This mean while he whom he had left in Famagosta, having informed himself touching the Lady, found that she was of a noble and rich Family, allied to the best houses of the City, though her husband, as having too great and numerous a retinue was not well looked upon, but rather held under by those petty Kings who known their uncertain Dominion to be yet but weakly grounded: which made her be better inclined to Biamartes his Party, then to theirs. The crafty Officer thought it therefore his best course to let it come to her knowledge by one of her household servants whom he had by great sums of gold corrupted, that Biamartes being come into that City by stealth, and unknown, was fall'n mightily in love with her, in so much as he was sent by him to offer her together with his soul, whatsoever his Crown was able to do, she being the sole Mistress of his will. Telisbe for so was this Lady called thought it impossible that a great King should have hazarded himself within the precincts of an Enemy's Wall, and that having such important affairs of War upon his hands, he could have leisure to think of love; but did rather imagine that this was a plot of some one or other that was in love with her, to make trial of her chastity, or else that it was some of Biamartes stratagems whereby to make himself Master of that City, which was only wanting to complete his Dominion over all Cyprus. Were it then that she desired to know whether she were grown so ingenuous or not as to discover the plots of others, or that egged on by the itch of ambition, she would gladly know the certainty, whether her beauty were such or no, as to have operation in the heart of a great Prince and valiant Warrler she would be punctually informed by this her domestic servant, who it was that had prevailed so far with her as to make her venture upon so rash a business. She wrought so much by entreaties and by threats, as she learned all she knew out of her: Which was no more but that dazzled by the brightness of the gold whereof a stranger had been very liberal unto her, she was induced to deliver such messages, believing she should not find her easy to consent, but yet ready enough to pardon the folly of a fault which had got her so much wealth. The Lady seemed to be appeased, and asked her whether she thought the stranger would be persuaded to speak with her herself or no, charging her that when he should come to receive his answer, she should desire him to do so. The good woman promised total obedience, yet was she afraid and doubtful, lest this might be done out of cunning, that her Lady might come to know him, and so cause him to receive deserved punishment: yet confirmed by her Ladies redoubled Oaths, who protested to her that it proceeded only out of a certain itch of curiosity, and knowing her ingenuous and sweet nature, she resolved to let the stranger know, that her Mistress was not only ready, but very desirous to speak with him. He likewise made fearful by too much facility, answered, that whensoever it might be so done as he might be sure to come by no harm, he would be very ready to receive so great an honour: not that he did believe there could be any abuse used, or traps laid by such a Lady, but that the favour seemed to him to be too sudden, and too exceeding great: which answer being by her brought back unto her inquisitive Lady, after a long consultation had, they resolved (so great a power in Women hath curiosity and ambition) that before he should come to Parley with her, a little tender child, whom he very well knew to be Telisbes' only son, should be delivered into his custody. By this her so great expression of fidelity, he inferred safety to himself from all deceit, so as he refused all other security save what might proceed from her courteous Ingenuity. The manner, and hour of their interlocution was agreed upon, wherein to Biamartes good luck it was proved true, that the same Fortune which sparingly withholds her favours from some, dispenseth them prodigally to other some. With efficacy worthy of one who laid open the amorous passions of a King, the crafty and eloquent Officer endeavoured to persuade Telisbe, that she was more dearly beloved by Biamartes then any thing that did never so nearly concern his Crown, nay more than his own soul. She at that instant, were it either out of decency, or that her ambition and curiosity being already satisfied, some new thoughts came in her head, answered: Friend! if I had imagined that your discourse should have tended to these vain expressions of Love, whether they be true or false, I should as well have refused you audience, as I shall always refuse to make my heart a receptaecle of any other affections, than what prompted by my Genius and duty I have dedicated as inviolable and eternal to my Lord and husband. I was persuaded to give you hearing, out of a belief that Biamartes in love with somewhat else then my beauty, would by these his pretences of love, seek to discover how my house is inclined to these our unjust petty Princes, who carry themselves unwisely and very violently against all those of my blood. If he will that I do faithfully assist him in his Victories, I am at his disposal; for though a woman, I will make all other Princes learn by the example of these, how to treat their Nobility better: but if his only pretence be to dishonour me, he does but lose his labour, for a nobly born soul doth always more esteem honour then life. Not without wonder and much joy did the other hear these expressions, and seeing so large a way opened to undreamed of good success, he answered: That he was certain, as much as his Master would be displeased to hear his love repulsed by her, so much would he be pleased to understand the offer of her adherence to him in the winning of that City; that he therefore desired her to give him leave to acquaint Byamartes with her favourable intentions towards him: that then he would return with freer resolves; assuring her that she should not befriend a Prince who would repay her with ingratitude. He without further delay, went from Famagosta safely and easily under a counterfeit habit; commerce being allowed to all men, nor entrance denied to any on who came in alone, unarmed, and who would go out at convenient and set hours. He came to Biamartes, who being already Master of the Field, was levying of more men, and was encamped not above twelve miles from the Town, to whom having related what he had learned of new, Byamartes instantly forgot Telisbes' beauty; and the poor child Love, wholly composed of tenderness and swavitie, fled from his heart, and gave place for Mars to enter, who in a terrible and bloody manner did in a moment usurp the seat. He grew impatient to see himself wholly Victorious over his Enemies: so as sending back the Messenger in haste with order to promise Telisbe in his behalf whatsoever she could desire in recompense; were it even the fee Farm of Famagosta, with the Title of Government, so as she would devise a means how he might surprise it. This Messenger at his return found the Lady more rosolved to assist Byamartes now then ever, since concealing his love addresses, she had told her husband how the King had craftily endeavoured to draw from her, to what side he, as head of a numerous faction, did adhere; and that if he would be pleased to second that fortune which offered its forelock to him; the means was in readiness whereby he might take revenge for all his ill usage received from the petty Princes. He was a little jealous to hear his Wife talk thus, though afterwards wieghing every particularity, having advised with himself, and some of his nearest friends, he resolved not to let slip so fair an opportunity of revenge, and of advancing his own greatness and Fortune. Telisbe would speak no more with Biamartes officer without her husbands being present, and all things being agreed upon between them, he returned to the Camp instructed in all that was to be done in execution of the enterprise.  
Telisbe desired, and did obtain it, that when Byamartes should have made himself master of the City, he should give way, that for the future it should be governed by the Nobles, and by the name of a Commonwealth; but still as feudatory and tributary to his Majesty in a great sum of money, whose Vicegerent should in appearance hold the principal place, though his Authority should not exceed that of the other Senators. For what remained, that the Army should draw nigh, and should give an assault by night, for that by such helps as he should meet withal, he should with ease, and without the expense of blood obtain the Victory. All things were agreed upon, and so successfully executed, as one of the petty Princes was slain whilst he fought valiantly in the defence of his Palace by night, and the other flying away by Sea, trusted his safety with the Winds, passing in a little Bark to the banks of Soria. From that time till Thoas his reign, Famagosta was peacefully governed in the form of a Republic; when rebelling against him, he dispatched away Prince Doralbo to chastise so rash and insolent a commotion. The hidden and wicked Treachery of one of Thoas his chief Ministers of state, had excited, nay necessitated that state to the violent resolution of taking up Arms against its Lord and Master. Who this wicked one was, and to what mischievous ends he complotted these revolutions, we shall shortly know, together with some other fatal successes. Let it suffice for the present to know, That an Order from his Majesty authenticated and sealed by his Kingly Seal, was read in full Senate by the King's Vicegerent in Famagosta; that without any reply or intermission of time, to boot with the ordinary Tribute, four thousand Talents should be by them disbursed towards the occurrent affairs. Those Fathers were astonished to hear of so unaccustomed & burdensome a demand, there not being moneys enough neither in the public Exchequers, nor yet in men's private purses, to make up so great a payment; they desired a prorogation of the Vicegerent, protetesting howsoever that they were altogether unable to satisfy his Majesty's desires. They were answered, that they were speedily to resolve, and to take into their considerations the particulars expressed, and contained in the Order, without further reply or loss of time.  
The poor Senators knew not what to say; in all meetings both public and private, the King's indiscretion was the sole subject of discourse, when many of them received private advertisements by Letters, that Thoas taking a Caprichio to annul the Republic, had made use of a pretence of exacting a Contribution from them, which was impossible for them to pay. That if they should make ready payment of what was demanded, either in part or in whole, he was resolved to make use thereof to wage war with them at their own expense; That if they did not execute his Order, he would declare them to be disobedient, and proclaim them Rebels, and Enemies to the Crown. That the very Inhabitants of Nicosia, ashamed & scandalised at the apparent injustice, desired that so famous & ancient a Common wealth should now make some glorious resentment against that King, who having lost his reason in his love to a base Woman, had already crowned her Queen, to the end that the people might be governed by a mongrel succession of an ignoble stock mixed with the Royal Blood. That the only remedy they had to prevent their imminent ruin, was to put on a noble resolution of preventing him speedily with Arms. That they would not want assistants and partakers even in the very Court itself. Those of Famagosta provoked by so violent incitements, resolved to prevent Thoas, by setting on his state on the side of Siuri; and though they were provided but with a few Soldiers, they lead them into the Field, not ceasing this mean while to raise men with all their might: And to this purpose they dispatched away Commissaries into Soria, from the King whereof they promised themselves upon all occasion's assistance and succour.  
They soon heard how that Prince Doralbo was marching towards them with a numerous Army: When the chief Commanders of the Famagostan Troops, who being dispersed abroad, sack the Country every where, to the terror and loss of the poor Country people, summoned them all back into the two Towns which were already taken, & fortifying themselves there with cutting deep Ditches and Trenches, they waited for the enemy, whilst the Militia of the City was drawn forth, and Forces were raised in divers parts, that they might afterwards appear in the field ready to fight. Thoas his Army encamped itself between the Town of Siuri, and the Castle of Pigadia; and all the neighbouring places being by the provident Prince provided with Garrisons, he sent forth six Troops of Horse, & ten Companies of Foot, giving them order to use all means possible whereby they might draw the Enemies out of those Towns wherein they had fortified themselves. This was not easily to be done; For after a long resistance made by them of Famagosta, they received succours, so that it behoved Doralbo's forces to fight, which though they did with little loss of men, yet lost they much reputation, failing in their first enterprise. True it is that the Famagostians growing hereupon bold, sallied out with a great many men, and being too far advanced in pursuit of the Enemy's Horse, who did of purpose leisurely retreat, they found the way shut up as they returned, so as intercepted in the midst, the greatest part of them were taken prisoners, or cut in pieces; some of them who had the fortune to escape, withdrawing themselves into a neighbouring Wood  
In Nicosia this mean while the sick King grew daily worse and worse, so as his Case was thought desperate, so much the rather for that being grown exceeding weak, the Physic which was prescribed, either wrought not at all, or wrought contrary effects to the ends it was given. In fine, he must die, and in stead of going into a nuptial Bed to rejoice within the Arms of his Beloved, he must be put into a doleful Coffin, and laid in the bosom of Death.  
Unfortunate Thoas, I wish at least the Heavens had never suffered thee to have seen Nissena, thou then wouldst not in departing from this world, have known the sorrow of parting from her.  
Knowing himself near the unavoidable passage of Death, he called in to the help of his oppressed heart, that native generosity which in his life had never forsaken him, and with a deep sigh, wherewith he seemed to banish all fear, he with a cheerful countenance wherein undauntedness might be discerned, commanded that Nissena together with all the chief Lords and Barons of the Court should be sent for to him. The sorrowful Queen being come, she sat her down by the King's bed side, and taking between her fairest hands, the fading and languishing left hand of her dying Husband, she said unto him, Oh Sir, How do you feel yourself? Well, said he, Now that I have all my content by me; but I must die, I must die, O Nissena, neither do I grieve thereat, for I know I was born mortal; but only because I am to leave you, and to leave you before you be wholly mine. At the hearing of words expressed with such tender affection, tears in abundance began to fall from the eyes of the afflicted Lady, which at the arrival of the Court Lords, she with much ado detained. The Lords and Rulers of the Kingdom entered the dismal Chamber with silent reverence; and many of them being by this time got together, and standing bareheaded before the Bed, the King commanded them all to sit down. Here, a melancholy and short Praeludium being made by an universal silence to the King's discourse, he with a fainting voice having first looked them all in the face, feebly spoke thus: At last, my Friends, or rather my dear Children, after so many years wherein I have upheld the Crown of Cyprus, I am come to pay my last duty to Nature by Death. I die, and die contented, knowing that I have never upon any occasion been wanting to any one either in justice or in clemency; I have always loved my subjects more tenderly than myself or mine own Interests; and I call yourselves and heaven to witness whether I had ever any other end, then to govern like a good Shepherd, ready to shed my sweat, nay my very blood for the good of my Flock. It may notwithstanding be, that without any consent of my will, some one may think himself either ill dealt withal through my rigour, or injured by some innocent fault of mine. If I have done amiss, I have done it out of ignorance, and for doing it, I first humbly ask pardon of God's hands, then at your hands who are here present, and lastly from the meanest and poorest of my Vassals. It hath pleased the Gods, peradventure, because I knew not how to deserve it, that I die void of succession, or an heir, to whom leaving that love hereditary which I bear to you, I might assure myself that for the future you were to be governed with those just ends wherewith I have always governed you: But my faults have been too great to others, which have withheld me from having deserved so greatly a desired felicity, and death would be too welcome to me, if I could die with this content. Yield I beseech you unto my will, and be therewithal well pleased; and if the Love and Justice which I have ever indifferently born unto you all, have merited any retribution from you, I beg a comfort of you able to make me happy before I breathe my last. Grant it unto your King, if you will not that he die, slain rather by desperation then by sickness. Grant it I desire you, I beseech you, I conjure you, if for nothing else, for the public prosperity which is to arise from thence: I would have my Sceptre to pass from me to Nissena: I know that as being the last of my race, I may by the ancient Laws of this Kingdom justly dispose of; but I will receive that as a gift from your consent, which I might freely dispose of according to mine own will. Let her afterwards choose a husband, whom I wish may be such a companion to her, both in the Kingdom and in her bed, as you by her private election may enjoy public tranquillity. Howsoever, if it had pleased the Gods to bless me with longer life, she must have been your Queen; she is already Crowned; The Fates have given you her for your Queen, and the Gods, knowing that she deserves a Kingdom, and that a Kingdom is but an adequat reward to her deserts. I vow unto you by that sincere Faith which may be expected from a dying man, she is no less inwardly then outwardly beautiful. Did I not know her to be so, I would not propound her as a Head to those my dear Subjects, whose happiness I shall for ever love, even in my grave. Let the performance of this my pleasure be your charge Mintaurus, who are my chief Precedent; for methinks I see a willing content in every one's countenance that Nissena should be their Queen. Mintaurus rising from his seat, kneeled down and said, If the heavens have ordained (which the Gods forbidden) that your Majesty forgo this life, the Queen shall see how highly her merits shall be observed by me, and how obsequiously your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. They all one after another kneeled down before her, and humbly kissed the hem of her garment, to which the much grieved Lady answered only in tears which falling in abundance from her eyes, invited many of the standers by to do the like. Do not bewail (said the dying King with an almost smiling eye) the loss of a King, since you make so advantageous a change in so worthy a Queen. I will carry with me the memory of your goodness my faithful Subjects, into Elysium; Remember you your Thoas who dies. Here, his voice growing very weak, he made signs that all should withdraw except Nissena; to whom with words hardly brought forth for want of breath, he expressed his affections scarcely understood. I die Nissena; whilst I lived, as soon as I had the happiness to know you, I made you a free gift of my heart; in death, since I have nothing to present you withal more worthy of you, I give you the Sceptre of Cyprus; after death, my Soul shall eternally love you. Remember Nis— and not being able to pronounce her whole name, he at once lost both his memory and his voice, which he never recovered again. Help, help, cried the Queen aloud, help my Lord the King, for he dies; and weeping downright; she fell in a swound upon the bed's side, which seemed a hears loaded with two dead corpse. Physicians and servants came running in, and women being sent for, the swooning Lady was carried to her Lodgings, whilst with divers Balsams, Cordials, and odoriferous extractions they endeavoured, but in vain, to recall the King to his senses. He lay languishing all that night, till the break of day, and then breathed out his soul.  
Alas that neither Kings, nor yet Kingdoms are exempt from the darts of death, and in death greatness and Dignities serve only to make death the more grievous. Behold that Court which but awhile afore abounded in Feasting and Nuptial Jollities, now become a Theatre of sorrow, plentiful only in dolorous tears, and shall shortly be the Scene of Fatal and Tragical revolutions. The Queen, when she was come to herself, wondered to find herself not near the bed of her expiring husband, after whose condition she immediately enquired, whether he was yet alive or no, or whether he had for ever abandoned her: Answer was made that he was at rest, and that she should do well to mind herself, for he wanted for no care nor possible assistance. Early the next morning papers were found thrown about in divers parts of the Palace, wherein was published that the King was dead by slowly working poison; betrayed by some who plotted yet more execrable assassinations to the universal ruin of the whole Kingdom. This was whispered up and down the Court till at last it came to Nissena's ears, who betaking herself to fresh sorrows, would have accompanied her Husband in death. She passed afterwards from tears to so impetuous and blind a desire of revenge, as she seemed out of her wits; threatening the Gallows, Axe, Fire, ruin and destruction to whosoever had killed Thoas But there was not the least sign, nor imagination to be had who this wicked one should be. Mintaurus came in, who under pretence of obviating those scandalous accidents which might be occasioned by the Queens ill regulated violence, changed and redoubled the Guard, comforting her in an almost imperious and severe manner. Not long after his son Melaspus came in to comply with her, and to offer her not only what he owed unto her as a Subject, and servant, but promising with his sword and the expense of his blood to do what in him lay, to bring her consolation by way of revenge. These unusual compliments, misbecoming his rough and bestial nature were observed by Eurania, Nissena's Ant, but not by her, who quite lost in the passions of grief and revenge, minded nothing but her own fury and affliction. The King's Funerals were by Mintaurus order celebrated with no extraordinary Pomp, upon whom by reason of his dignity the Government and interest of the Kingdom depending, he endeavoured by unusual kindnesses to win into the good opinion of the great ones, and by liberalities, never by him before practised, to to make the soldiery & the common people his friends: he notwithstanding made many to be imprisoned, and amongst others one of the late King's secretaries, pretending that they were complices in the murder of one of the chief Gentlemen of Nicosia, who was slain some days before. He acquainted the Queen with all proceed, whose grief not being yet over, committed all affairs and expeditions to his charge. This was the only thing which he gaped after; who desires to strengthen his own authority with the people, and to weaken the Queen's power, hasted apace towards the accomplishing of his vast and proud designs. Melaspus' ceased not to wait often upon Nissena, endeavouring by his obsequiousness and service to work himself into her good opinion, as being in love, I know not whether more with her, or with the Kingdom. This his new way of proceeding was known by all men to be but craft which aimed at the Crown, and made him more hateful in the eyes of many, than had his detestable conditions done before. The Court was sufficiently ware to what end Mintaurus actions tended, as also those of Melaspus, and both Eurania and Nissena perceived it too, though too late; who finding her Guards to be changed, how she was attended by none but Mintaurus his friends and kindred, and even deprived of the company of her most entrusted waiting women, knew she had almost totally lost her Princely power, or was rather of a Queen become a servant; whilst every where, and in all things Mintaurus was more obeyed than she. She desired that a Council of State might be called, but it was deferred under pretence of his indisposition of health, and of the absence of many of the chief Lords, who after the King's death had withdrawn themselves not only from the Court, but from the City. She desired to be informed of many Occurrences of the Kingdom; more particularly of the War of Famagosta, and what had succeeded since the Prince Doralbo's expedition: But she could learn nothing but Ambiguities and falsehoods. In fine she found herself utterly lost, not having any one left her with whom to advise, and make known her mind save only Eurania, who amongst the rest of her vexing cares, she acquainted with her amorous inclination which since the King's death, did much increase in her towards Doralbo. Melaspus' this mean while, who by his Father's persuasions, did often visit Nissena, could no longer hold commerce with those fair eyes, without becoming in reality her very fervent Lover; and forgetting his Father's sordid and avaricious ends, which aimed at the unjust possessing of the Kingnom, he aspired to nothing else but the possession of Nissena's beauty. 'Tis a folly to expose one's self to the flames, with a thought of not remaining if not burnt, at least throughly warmed. Nissena was at all times exceeding handsome, but being attired in Widows apparel and vails, she appeared to outdo herself.  
It was no wonder therefore if Melaspus, who was want formerly only to follow after wanton and lascivious love, suffered himself at this time to be taken by that countenance, which though it breathed forth nothing but noble flames, did notwithstanding ravish with a redoubled violence, he therefore solicited his father to such resolutions as might give him Nissena in possession: so as his sons entreaties joined to the conatural goads of Ambition & Avarice, Mintaurus resolved himself to propound Melaspus to Nissena for Husband. She blushing, but wisely keeping in the height of her disdain, took time to give answer, so as the wary wicked fellow perceived she was not much inclined to such a marriage; And though he feigned, yet inwardly enraged, he said within himself, Thou shalt either marry Melaspus, or have Death for thy Bridegroom.  
The Queen saw herself afterwards worse treated then ever, and the ill usage practised hitherto by Mintaurus with hidden Art, began to degenerate into evident neglects. She was no more acquainted, as formerly, with the affairs of the Kingdom, nor for all that she could do, could she ever get the Council to meet. She was attended as meanly as might be, only in what concerned, necessity, not as became her greatness; the number of her Courtiers and Servants in her waiting rooms being every day decreased, and the number of Soldiers every day increased. Melaspus' only, whose flames grew daily greater, continued to serve her, though the little correspondency or gratitnde that he met withal, might have made him see he was not at all respected. The Niece and Aunt perplexed between these straits, resolved it not only needful for them, but necessary to acquaint Doralbo by Letters, how barbarously they were treated by Mintaurus after the King's death: And this Nissena was the willinger induced unto, now that she saw the way open unto her to make with honour her affection known to that gallant Prince, whose love she now esteemed a greater fortune than the Crown. ' I was hard for them to get the letter safely conveyed unto him; but wary Eurania sent it by a very trusty Messenger. For what remained they resolved to show themselves for the future more inclined to the proposition of Nissena's marriage with Melaspus, whose affection should be fed and nourished by her with some seeming content: yet so cunningly, as a sudden change might not cause suspicion. The sad couple were tossed between the billows of these anxious thoughts, and Nissena oppressed with unwelcome Melancholy, was more afflicted then usually, when a young man appeared before her of a noble enough aspect, though not very richly attired, who having bowed reverently unto her, spoke to her in this manner, The weight of affairs wherein your Majesty's life and the possession of this kingdom are concerned, required that I should come before your presence: and for that I was often denied entrance by the guard, I who am a Merchant's son of this City, have abused the Soldiers, making them believe that I was sent for by you, with direction to bring you some Looking-glasses, wherewith the better to colour over the Fiction, I have brought good store with me; and to that purpose, Madam, I will present you with a Glass, wherein you shall see the wicked practices of others, and the imminent dangers which hang over you. Be not, I beseech you, offended, that Fortune hath made choice of me your unworthy servant, and most humble subject, as an instrument to withdraw you from those misfortunes to which you are so much the more exposed, for that you do the less discern them; as long as my Relation shall serve to your relief, you need not care who I am. About a month since I was imprisoned by order from the Precedent Mintaurus, only for being casually in company in the night season with some such young men as myself; amongst whom there arose some dispute about love-affairs: & was ready to be set at liberty when by the unadvised Keeper, a Secretary of my lare Sovereign was brought into the same prison where I was. He wondered to see me there, the Jailor having received express command, as the Secretary told me, to put him into some prison where no body was. The secretary enquiring the misfortune that had brought me thither, I answered, 'Twas for a business of small concern, and that I hoped that very day to be set at liberty. He rejoiced with me at my good fortune, adding, I would it might please the Gods, that according to my innocency I might likewise be set free; but I fear I shall by the loss of my life pay for the punishment which is due to the wickedness of other men. I think it notwithstanding a great good fortune to have met you here, my friend, for you are to be a means of freeing the fairest and most deserving Queen of the world from those dangers she is likely to undergo. Know that Mintaurus, the wickedest of as many men as live, grown insolent by that good fortune which to boot with making him rich, and having brought him into favour with the King, hath raised him to the degree of chief Precedent, seeing the King without issue, is become ambitious of the Crown, and endeavours to open a way to his enjoying it by the most cruel and unjust means that ever was devised by any Fiend in Hell. When Thoas was resolved to marry Nissena, he saw the groundwork of his barbarous pretensions began to shake, and therefore caused slow working poison to be mingled in the King's meat, which by a lingering sickness hath brought him to his grave. 'Twas he who by a blind letter endeavoured to make Nissena run away, or at least to raise jealousies in her, and make some misunderstandings between her and the King, fearing lest when Thoas should die, he might leave the Sceptre hereditary to her. He was the wicked one, who sending false Orders for grievous contributions to the Common wealth of Famagosta, and using other wicked Art, made them take up arms against the King, to the end that all the Soldiers being drawn out of Nicosia, his machinations might be the easilier compassed. He is that wicked one who to complete all his unjust Acts, will have Nissena to marry his son Melaspus, or else will poison her, or put her to some more cruel death. And when he shall have made himself Master of the Kingdom, I am sure the people will be made to weep tears of blood, they shall be oppressed, not governed; tyrannised over, not ruled: He finally, lest I might in time smell out his Treacheries, hath commanded that I should be buried in this prison, & would have ere this have put me to death, had he known that I was ware of his misdeeds. What is to become of me, and of a many more that are imprisoned with me, is best known to those stars which sometimes pour down greater showers of Misfortune upon the innocent then on the guilty. When you shall be set at liberty, delay not I beseech you, to discover all his frauds unto the Queen, desiring her either to fly from the Tyrant's hands, or to incite the people to revenge, & to work his ruin, and tell her from me that though Mintaurus his friends appear numerous and potent, he is notwithstanding hated by all the people, and to all such of the Nobility as are not allied to him. The Soldiers are grown to side with him, by reason of his profuse liberality towards them; but they are but a few, the Garrisons being much weakened; and the very Guards of the Galleys and of the Court, by reason of the expedition against Famagosta.  
This is all I can serve her in; as for wisdom and counsel, she is of herself so well provided, as I hope (and may the Gods make my hopes prove true) to see her freed from so many imminent dangers, and triumph over the ruins of her enemy. He was about to have told me how he came to know these Mintaurus his wickednesses, and had already begun to say somewhat of his love-affairs, when the Keeper came to invite me to my desired liberty. I came forth, thinking those benign influences which had whilst I was in prison, afforded me the most happy occasion of serving your Majesty. And then bowing low before her feet, he added; Yet I cannot but bewail that fortune which imbitters all my content, by making me the bringer of such fatal news of imminent dangers. The young man ceased speaking, and Nissena, who not knowing what to think, had this mean while changed her countenance 100 times, fetching a deep sigh, answered thus, I cannot for the present, young man, pay you with any thing but thanks for what you have told me: If it be the pleasure of the Gods that I escape these dangers which unjust Mintaurus hath plotted against me, I will be mindful of you, and of the trouble you have undergone to serve me. I could wish you would let me see you sometimes, lest I may merit the title of Ingrateful; if I shall fall under his treacheries, do you commiserate my misfortunes who know my innocency, and be, if not a public yet a private testimony of his wickedness, whilst I assure you, that in serving me, you have not sown in the sand; and let this suffice, that if I live I will testify my acknowledgement otherwise then in words. He took his leave, and she was so lively impressed with what she had heard, as she was not wanting to herself in providing for her imminent dangers.  
Doralbo had this mean while received the Letter from his beloved Nissena, and was thereby made at once both happy, and much afflicted. Happy, for that the sole characters of that fair hand, were able to have recalled him to life again, had he been already dead: Afflicted to hear of those wicked demeanours which the base Precedent had used towards her, whom he reverenced as worthy of Incense. He was glad that she was succeeded to the Kingdom by Inheritance, and that being assumed to so high a degree, she would deign to confide in him, and give him some little inkling of her correspondency in affection: but he was grieved that he was not present to hazard his life in her defence and for her service. He would have presently been gone, nay he would have flown towards Nicosia; but he could not do so, because the next day he was to fight the Enemy in a pitched Field, whereupon the Victory of that War depended, and wherein the interest and glory of his Queen did consist. Amidst the variety of these thoughts, he resolved first to try the fortune of the day: and finding his heart invigored by the graces of his beloved, he thought himself already Conqueror, and joyed that he should shortly enjoy the triumphs of his Victory under the gracious arches of those eyes which he adored. That night appeared an age to him, he got two hours before day out of bed; and by his command the Trumpets were soon heard in all his quarters, awakening those who were yet asleep, and inviting them to prepare for the battle. Armed all in black, he curbed in a horse which under a mantle of snow covered a fiery soul, hasting sometimes to one place, sometimes to another, to encourage his Soldiers, to give out Orders to the Commanders, to excite the backward, to suppress the insolent, and to dispose of all things which might make his Victory the more easy, in an open plain and spacious field, save only that on the left hand there stood a little hill; he ordered his Army, giving the right wing to Filarbo, and the left to Theocastro, he himself kept in the midst at the head of a choice Troop of commanded horsemen, he foreran all others no less in valour and courage then with his steed, when he understood by some Scouts who he had sent before to watch the Enemies proceed, that the Enemy was come within a mile and a half, and already the noise of their Trumpets might be heard, the sound of Drums, the neighing of Warlike horses, and a thick cloud of dust might be perceived to be raised in the air. In the Famagostan Army, the unexperience of the Country Soldiers, which were not very many, was supplied by the practice and valour of many Volunteers who were come thither in great numbers from the adjacent shores and neighbouring Islands, called in by the renowned name of Agenor of Soria, on whom the place of Generalissimo was by the Senate conferred at a very profuse charge: He had disposed of his squadrons according to the Persian manner, in whose Wars he had a long time been trained up, fight generously sometimes in the condition of a private Soldier, sometimes of a powerful Commander. 1500 bowmen on horseback marched before the body of the Army, and he himself followed immediately after upon a horse whose bards and crupper were made of Panther skins, lined with purple and interwoven with gold; he had upon him a Jacket of azure satin, trimmed with long buttons of great pearl, and his head was oddly wound about with Skarves variously coloured, bestuck with feathers of great esteem and price; he was provided with no other arms but only a Scimitar hanging at his left side, and a battle axe at his saddle bow: Assoon as the Armies were come within bow-shot, the Archers like lightning let fly all their arrows, and dividing themselves instantly into two wings, they retreated orderly, leaving the rest of their Army open to the Enemy's eye; few that were then wounded did immediately die, but not any one were his hurt never so small, outlived the space of three days, the heads of their arrows being all dipped in deadly poison. Doralbo and Agenor were the first who advanced one towards another, but imitated, and followed by great numbers of Cavalry, they could not come to fight hand to hand, being hindered by other combatants who with like generosity and fortune on both sides, sometimes charged on, sometimes retreated, sometime drove back their Enemies, who rallying again, returned to face and fight the adverse party. Many fell down wounded on both sides, trodden under foot, dying, and buried before they were dead, by the confused number of horses born to the ground, of broken weapons, and a multitude of dead bodies: Agenor's horse was slain under him, and had he been less valiant, he had in this very first encounter either been slain or taken prisoner by the Nicosians: but he slew so many with his Scimeter, and threw so many to the ground, as being in time succoured by his men, he escaped the evident danger of losing either his life or liberty. Doralbo received a slight wound in one of his arms, and doubting lest his Soldiers might be discouraged by seeing him bleed, he cried out aloud; Courage my beloved, for the Victory leans already to our side, and though I have often endeavoured either to overcome or to die, I have hitherto met with no other harm, save only so slight a wound, as hath hardly drawn three drops of blood from me: Whilst he was speaking thus, he was advertised by a thundering salute of musket shot, that Filarbo had given battle on the left side, and that he had had bad fortune at the very first; for the ranks of his pikemen who defended the musquetiers, being broken by the Enemy's lances, he might see them all routed, and little better than running away. He making a speedy half turn endeavoured with many other horsemen to make resistance, but was necessitated to face about against some other horse which charged him on the flank, which had he not done, they were likely not only to have disordered, but to have routed the whole Army; not at all discouraged herewith, he dispatched away a Sergeant Major upon a very fleet horse, to advertise Theocastro that with what force and fury he possibly could, he should without delay charge the Enemy's forces on his side, if he would not have the day lost: He obeyed so luckily, as bearing down the first files at his fierce assault, who were all Country Soldiers, they began by little and little to retreat, and by and by to run downright away; in so much that Theocastro with many of his men charged so home as he took the chief Standard, and meeting with none to withstand him, he came in to the succour of his brother Filarbo, who afterwards valiantly fight together with him, beat back the Enemy, many of which ran disorderly away along the neighbouring fields. Doralbo and Agenor had this mean while made interchangeably very great slaughter, and bravely imitated by their followers they continued fight, the Victory not appearing to lean to either side; but upon the arrival of Filarbo and Theocastro, Agenor's horse were forced to save themselves by an orderly and slow retreat, which could not justly be called running: at last, after having long endeavoured it, the Generals met face to face; and Agenor abandoned by almost all his men, had at last perished by the number of his assailants, had not Doralbo defending him with his own hands, cried out, that it belonged to him alone to grapple with that fierce man. Thou shalt not so easily overcome me said Agenor with the sword as with courtesy; having said so, he made on with his Scimitar in both hands towards Doralbo, who dexterously evaded that blow which would have cleft a mountain of Iron: at the same time he let fly a stockado at the Enemy's throat, and wounded him sorely, though not mortally, so as losing abundance of blood, he had almost fallen down half dead amongst his own men, but he did not this before he had given Doralbo a large but not a deep wound in the same left arm whereon he was hurt before. This was the end of this days action, Agenor being carried to his Tents, and the Prince upon a very fleet horse to his Quarters.  
The Armies being mustered, about 2000 horse and 3600 foot were found wanting on the Crowns side; and on the Commonwealth's side little less than 4000 horse, and only 2700 foot: So as those who defended the Kingdom, had but small cause to boast of a Victory purchased with so much blood.  
Doralbo's wound being tented and dressed was found to be but slight, and no ways dangerous: so as he who longed very much to be where his heart already was, after having given order and express command in what was requisite for the burial of the dead, for the cure of those that were wounded, and for all other occurrences which belonged to the Interest of War, which he affectionately recommended to Filarbo and Theocastro's care, he speedily took his way toward Nicosia, awaited on only by two Gentlemen, and one page. 'Tis hard to imagine, much harder to say how many troubled thoughts he was agitated with in this his Journey: he found his heart beat within him for joy to think he should so soon be made happy in the so often wished for sight of his Nissena, from whom he hoped hereafter for correspondency in love, if not more ardent, at least more free and lawful; she not being now bound unto any other affections, save to the grateful matrimonial memory of her dead husband; he hoped and feared: hope and fear being inseparable from a soul in love. He hoped to make himself worthy of his beloved's favour by doing some great actions aiming at her service and relief. But he feared lest she being raised to the Regal Throne, might despise him, who though born a Prince, had no considerable fortune, save what he might be made partaker of by her, from whom he could not be induced to hope for, or to pretend unto any thing more than some little gratitude, in not being contemned or abhorred. He thought he had already put a period to Mintaurus his pride, that he had trodden him under foot, cut his throat, and offered him as a victim in sacrifice to his adored Idol. Spur on thy Horse in God's name, poor Doralbo, thou shalt shortly see to what fatal Spectacles, and sad misfortunes thy miserable destiny hath reserved thee. And thou unhappy one, not foreseeing thy adverse destiny, hastest to see and hear things and objects which will make thee suffer a thousand deaths. He was scarcely come within sight of the City, when he might perceive how much Nicosia was altered for what concerned him, from what it was when he left it. He was questioned whilst yet a good way off, by two Sentinels who were armed, and walked carefully upon a Bulwark, who he was: and not allowing him leisure to reply, they in an imperious manner added; That he must either presently stay, or else give in his name, and lay down his Arms at the entrance into the Gate: to the which whilst he drew near, he was withstood by a number of Soldiers who kept the Guard. And what, said he in angry manner, is my countenance so much altered? How now you Rascals; do you not know me? Then clapping spurs to his Horse, he would force his entry. One of them more rash than the rest, laying hold upon his Horse's bridle, said, Stay Sir, for we are Mintaurus his Soldiers, and have no respect for you. At which he replied aloud, Did I not disdain to defile my sword in so base blood, I would teach thee to discourse thus with a Prince. What is Mintaurus? And since when commands he over such as I am in Nicosia? He would have said more, but the Captain of the Troop coming in, interposed himself in such like words: Sir, these may be excused, enter in God's Name, I in the mean while will acquaint him whom I ought to do so, with your Highness' arrival. He entered all swollen with anger; nor had he advanced far, when he might discern such a hushness and melancholy in all the people, as recalling into his mind Thoas his death, presented nothing but confusion to him, and what mischief might overhang him and Nissena; insomuch as he found his heart struck through by an unexpected deep melancholy. Troubled with these thoughts, he came to the Court Gates, which were likewise guarded by a body of men unknown to him. He advanced, being not so much respected as before: but he did not much mind it, his heart leaping within him to think he was so near seeing and discoursing with his dearly beloved. Being got up the stairs, he went towards the Queen's Lodgings, and entering into the ante-rooms, he found them void and abandoned by the wont Guard, and the accustomed frequency of Courtiers, Cavaliers and Noble men: being entered a little further in, he might hear a whispering noise as of some that were talking. Laying his hand upon the door (Oh! go no further Doralbo, for thou goest not knowing it, to meet with worse than death) and opeing it, he found none but two much afflicted Women, who stood talking with a page of a misfortune which was befallen. Where is the Quen, said he? has she changed her lodgings? One of them bursting forth into downright weeping, answered; Alas Sir, our Queen may well be said to have changed her lodgings, since she is gone to heaven to enjoy the reward of her innocence, being now free from the power of the wicked Tyrant. At this sad and unexpected news the enamoured Prince felt a chillness run over his whole body, as is usual in a cold fit of an ague, and a certain vapour rise from his heart unto his head, which took his sight from him, and made him for awhile stupid, immovable, and senseless: He afterward broke forth into a loud cry, and said; Is it true that Nissena is dead? hath the barbarous rascal murdered her? or who is that barbarous rascal? where is he? tell me where, and how, and when, and who it was that killed her? The sorrowful woman, mingling sobs and tears with her words, answered; Two Soldiers commanded so to do by wicked Mintaurus, ripped her soul from out her bosom with their daggers; the next chamber and her own bed was the tragical scene of so unjust an act. Oh my heart! how deadly was the wound; savedg beasts and vipers, not men: but I, I will take revenge, said the Prince, if I can so long outlive my life's death as to have time to do it; O that I could assoon by my death recall her to life. Lamenting thus, he turned his face to the door of the next chamber, and saw the bed and carpets which were spread about it upon the ground, and the room itself all stained, besmeared and sprinkled with blood. Oh said he, this is my heart's blood unworthily drawn from that spotless and innocent body. Did I come hither, O Nissena, to serve thee, to place thee in thy Throne, to reverence thee, and do I find nothing of thee but bloody signs? yes, yes, 'twas thus thou meanedst to point me out the way, that to imitate and follow thee I must die. Be sure my soul I will follow thee, but I will first revenge thee: I will first have these stains washed away with that Traitor Mintaurus his heartblood: But good gods! what have these infernal monsters done with my Queen's body? perhaps her wounds were not mortal. Why then wretch that I am, came not I time enough at least to wash them with my tears, to bind them up with my lips, and then die? 'twill be time enough though to die when I shall have ripped his heart from out his bosom, who hath slain thee my fair and adored soul. Thus born away by blind fury, he went in haste from those lodgings, and being resolved either to revenge the death of his beloved, or else to perish in the enterprise: he went thither where he thought to have found Mintaurus; but meeting with Melaspus at the stair head, followed by a great many of the Nobility and Soldiers, he presently laid his hand upon his sword, crying out, Traitor, the wicked Son of a greater Traitor, and more wicked Father, thou shalt the mean while pay for what shall afterwards be divided between so infamous a Son and cruel a Father. His voice was thunder, his sword fire, and his arm lightning, wherewith he let fly at Melaspus his breast; and the wound he gave him being the glory of one only blow, neither could Melaspus, nor as many as were about him with their Swords all drawn, save him from it; save only that falling a little side-long, the wound lighted amongst his ribs, which was intended at his heart; stepping a little backward, rash and desperate Doralbo would have redoubled his thrust; but Melaspus' having already drawn his sword, and all his followers interposing themselves, or else opposing the Prince, he could neither hurt any more, nor yet come near his abhorred enemy. A noise and tumult of weapons and voices was suddenly heard throughout the whole Palace. Whereupon Mintaurus himself coming in, charged that the Rebel and Traitor who had traitorously endeavoured to kill his son even within the Court, should be taken and bound, but neither struck nor wounded. The valiant Prince laid about him like Mars, in defence of his liberty, and wounded four or five of them; but at last overcome by the numerous press of rude Soldiers, and his weapons taken from him, he was led, or rather carried to a moist, narrow, dark Dungeon. Mintaurus not knowing that it was desperation which had made Doralbo attempt to kill his son, could not imagine why alone, and armed only with his Sword, he had exposed himself to the so evident danger of bootlesly losing his life. He thought this was the beginning of some mine laid for his ruin; and fearing lest he might be ensnared, he became a watchful Argus to guard that Kingdom, the Crown whereof he intended for his own head. That he might become formidable to such of the Nobility as did not adhere unto him, he the next day made the heads of the Baron Timis, and of the Count Pentaia be struck off in the midst of the marketplace, pretending that they had backed Doralbo in his attempt against Melaspus. He gave great sums of money to all the Militia, and changed their Commanders. And that he might win the people's love, by whom he saw himself to be but smally esteemed, and almost hated, he gave order for plenty of victuals, and at his own charges bated half their prices. He sent for some from their Governments, changing the Precedents and chief Officers of the Cities and other places: being reverently and punctually obeyed by all, out of the customary use he had even in Thoas life, freely and with authority to do so, as Precedent General. His pleasure was that Melaspus should with due circumspection live in the King's Palace, and he himself retired into the Castle, as into a place of the greatest safety, the possession whereof was of great importance to the preservation of government: Two things only remained to settle him in the Kingdom as he thought; the one to disband the Army which was already sent by the late King against the Commonwealth of Famagosta, or to make himself independent Governor thereof: The other to secure himself for ever of Doralbo, who was esteemed by the Nobility of great power in the Army, and much beloved by the people. The first required well weighed determinations and preponderated execution: The second was to be establisted in the death of the unfortunate Prince. So sending for the chief Marshal, he with a frowning countenance strictly commanded him, that taking the Headsman a long with him, & as few bloodsuckers as he judged necessary for the execution, not making any the least mention thereof, no not so much as in a word, he should go that very night about midnight to the Dungeon where Doralbo was, and that having strangled him, he should cause his head to be cut off, and bring it secretly into the Castle to him. O how oft doth the impiety of wicked men, whilst it thinks to triumph over the fall of the innocent, rest oppressed by those very ruins which they unjustly threatened others withal.  
Nissena having acquainted Eurania with all the traps and treacheries which she had understood was laid and prepared for them by Mintaurus, she being a Woman of a great courage, and resolute wit, betook herself quickly to remedy those evils which threatened not only the loss of the Kingdom, but even the loss of their lives. Next morning about break of day, whilst two women who lay in the Queen's lodgings were yet asleep, she clothed herself and made Nissena also  herself in Pages apparel; and afterwards having horridly besmeared the Queen's sheets, & the chamber floor with blood, which she had formerly prepared ready, she began to cry out, Ah Traitors! Are Queens thus butchered and murdered in their own Houses and own Beds? Help, help, Soldiers, Ladies, unless you be all confederates in the treason. O Traitors! Help, O you good Gods!  
At this noise the Guards hasted into the Chamber, and the women leaping out of bed, throwing their clothes about them, and almost naked, did the like; whilst at this very instant Nissena and Eurania hid themselves behind the Arras in the outward room; and in this confused tumult, escaped away unknown and unseen, not only out of that Chamber, but out of the Court; and being got out of the City, went towards the Haven. The Soldiers and women half clad, finding nothing but great quantity of blood, panting and full of tears, sought every corner of the lodgings; and struck with amazement, they could not imagine from whence those doleful cries could proceed, nor whither the murderers were fled, and the murdered vanished. They spent much time in searching, in contemplating the bloody sheets and Pavement, and not knowing what to think, nor what to resolve on: some of them ran to acquaint Mintaurus with it; who, wakened out of a sound sleep, was confused for a long while, and knew not what to think. Having discussed the matter maturely with himself, he gave out Orders, and sent Messengers into all parts to make diligent inquiry what kind of people had gone out of Nicosia early that morning, and could hear of none but of two young youths who were imagined to be two of the Court Pages, who upon the break of day were gone on foot towards the Sea side. Having heard this, he made the guards of the Haven be examined whether any Vessel had weighed anchor that morning or no, and which way they were bend. He was informed for certain, that two young youths had at an exorbitant price, hired a Pinnace, upon agreement that without any intermission of time they should be speedily wafted over to Rhodes. Mintaurus guest at what was true, and would not suffer them to be pursued, being glad that Nissena by her going from Cyprus, had ta'en from him that only impediment which could keep him from freely enjoying the Crown, unless he should have used some violent courses. The crafty wicked man did notwithstanding dissemble the business, and seeming to believe that the Queen was dead, did not only profess and exaggerate his innocency, but bewailed her death, and shown himself ready to revenge it with severity, if he could at any time know who the offender was, or who were his complices, which he with all diligence sought after in all places. And the better to colour over these his Fictions, the Soldiers who were that night of the Queen's Guard, and the two Waiting-women who lay in her rooms, were by his command imprisoned, and strictly examined. He very well knew how much it made for the effecting of his desires, that the people should believe Nissena to be dead, since that he being known to be free from the fact; as indeed he was, he might with ease purchase the people's good will, who are apt to alter their inclinations, and that so much the more in a case wherein they must either adhere to him, or appear to be partial to her who was supposed dead. One thought perplexed him, that she being arrived in Rhodes, might peradventure obtain sufficient aid from Prince Fermondo to wage war with him, and endeavour to recover the Kingdom: And though he did not fear his Forces, as fare inferior to those of Cyprus, he did partly fear the wrath of Heaven, which his inward sting of Conscience did continually threaten him withal.  
Nissena and Eurania met with no sinister adventure, neither in their going from Nicosia, nor when they were gone thence, save only that their journey to the Sea side being somewhat long, they were so weary, as they were necessitated to get a Country Fellow to be their Guide, who furnished them with an ill guided horse, upon the which they rid by course, now one than the other, till they came to the desired Haven, paying bountifully for their Horse hire; they hired a Rhodian pinnace, conditioning that they should presently put their Oars into the water, and hoist up their Sails, the wound being Westwardly, and good for their intended Navigation. They were forthwith obeyed, giving themselves out to be the Queen's Pages, who for some very important business were to go for Rhodes. The Sun began already to incline toward the West, and they saw not as yet any vessel or ship which was parted from the Cyprian shore to pursue them, when thinking themselves either not minded by the Tyrant, or their flight not by him discovered, believed they were free from any pursuit of his. Eurania then calling the Pilot of the Pinnace to her, made herself freely known unto him, telling him that Nissena was the Marquis of Falerno's daughter, and now by hereditary succession Queen of Cyprus: He prostrated himself before their feet, resting assured by their aspects, and by their manner of Discourse, that they had told the truth, and excusing himself for that he had not before used himself with such obsequiousness towards them as he ought, he said; He thought it fit (if it might stand with their liking) that they should acquaint him why they went to Rhodes under those feigned habits, that he might be the better able to serve them with all fitting respect. Our voyage (said Eurania) must not be for Rhodes, you must tack about towards the North, and carry us to the Army, which is encamped near Siuri and Pigadia; for when we shall be come thither, we hope that Prince Doralbo will by force of Arms place Nissena again upon the Regal Throne, which she hath abandoned for fear of being slain by cruel Mintaurus. He acknowledged himself much obliged to Fortune, which had blest him with so happy an occasion of serving them, and assured them that unless the winds should betray him, he would bring them before midday to land in a little Haven very near the Army, all the parts of the Island being very well known to him.  
Doralbo's unexpected and hasty leaving of the Army, made Theocastro and Filarbo begin to imagine what the urgent occasion might be which had made him leave them without any respect had so much as to his own health, though grievously wounded; and not so much as waiting for the next day: They thought it fit to follow him, persuaded that he had done it out of some interest wherein the Crown was concerned; so as knowing by report that Nissena was to succeed in the Kingdom, and desirous to serve their Cousin in what they were able, they resolved, that one of them staying to take care of the Army, the other should follow the Prince. Theocastro then departed within a few hours after Doralbo was gone, and his brother Filarbo undertook to provide for all things diligently which should be requisite for the Army till his return. The next night following save one, he might see two whom at first sight he took to be young youths, enter the Pavilion; but soon finding one of them to be Eurania, the other Nissena, clothed in man's apparel, he said unto them, What is the good or bad Fortune, Ladies, that hath brought you hither in these habits? They drawing him aside, and making all but his Servants and Friends leave them, they acquainted him with all the troubles which had happened since the King's death: and that finally they might escape the danger of losing their lives, were enforced to fly from Mintaurus his treacheries, and to come thither to be advised by, and to receive timely help from Doralbo, who being a man of great authority, and having chief command of the Army, was he alone who was able to re-establish Nissena, as lawful Queen in the government of the Kingdom, knowing very well that they might securely build upon him.  
Filarbo was sorry that they came so late, whilst the Prince followed by Theocastro was in unlooked for haste gone towards Nicosia; but he said they were not notwithstanding to despair of their pretended succour, he being ready with all the Army over which he commanded with a derivatory power, to be by them employed as they should be pleased. 'Twas resolved that in the interim they should be kept concealed from the knowledge of the Army, till they had resolved what to do: putting on their womanly apparel, Doralbo's Tent was privately appointed for them, wherein they were to stay attended but by some few till they should have put on some resolution. When Nissena consulting only with her own thoughts, began to consider how unfortunately she had in vain come from Nicosia to the Camp to find out her beloved Doralbo, who amongst her so many misfortunes was her greatest care. She suffered herself to be so carried away with a violent love passion, as she could neither eat nor sleep, but fed her breast and eyes only with sighs and tears. The Prince his absence whose merit was already engraven in her heart, was not the only thing which made her lament; she found herself struck through with those accidents, which by securing her of the fervency of his love, should have rather comforted then afflicted her.  
O how readily (said she within herself) hath my Doralbo obeyed my very beck, that scarcely come from the battle, and wounded too, he hath with winged feet flown to receive my commands. Unhappy me! Let it not please the Gods that he be come to Nicosia at a time when he may believe my feigned death to be true: but say it be so: if it shall have so fallen out, I shall at least know with what resentments of sorrow and compassion he shall have wedded my funerals. I shall from hence prove his affection; alas, I know well enough without any testimony, that he loves me as much as a man may love, and I am bound to correspond in love, with him, and so I do; since whether my fortune be to live a private woman, or to be re-invested in the Throne of Cyprus, my heart shall never be capable of any amorous affection save for Doralbo. Do thou prove true to me as I shall do to thee. How much more would she have lamented, if she had known he was in prison, condemned to death, and perhaps his head struck off. These were her mental discourses when she was alone, but when she discoursed either with Eurania or Filarbo, she talked of nothing else but how she might repossess herself of the Crown, and if sometimes she endeavoured to hear tidings of Doralbo, it was under pretence that his presence would have helped much to the compassing of her designs. Eurania, as crafty as a Lady of honest and untouched reputation could be, very well understood her Nieces inward passions, and having pity of her, durst not take any the least notice thereof, fearful lest she should be offended that others should discern and penetrate into those affections, which she desired to keep concealed as much as possibly she could.  
Many days being spent in vain in expectation of Doralbo's and Theocastro's return, or of some news from them, and no news being heard, after many consultations had and argued too and fro, by Nissena, Eugenia, and Filarbo, they all of them resolved to send Ambassadors to the Senate of Famagosta, to desire that they would be pleased to give audience to a certain personage who with two only Companions demanded leave to be admitted into their presence to treat of peace: and in the mean time they would expect Doralbo's return which could not be long: This was done; and those grave Senators did both rejoice and wonder to hear peace propounded by a victorious Enemy, from whom they had learned at the expense of blood, to fear force, and this they did the rather for that they could expect but little help from Soria, wherein was raised a terrible fire of rebellion. Some of them cautiously doubted that some Warlike stratagem might lie hid under a specious pretence of peace, so as they were long in consulting how the propounded personages might be brought into the Senate; at last their answer was; that they would willingly give them a hearing; on condition notwithstanding that they should enter the City unarmed, and with their eyes blindfoulded. according to custom.  
All this while there was no news of Doralbo's return, whereat Nissena was so much afflicted, as he must have had a Tiger's heart who would not have pitied her if she had as openly demonstrated her passions, as she kept them concealed. The day was come, nay the very hour wherein the Commissioners from the Camp were to be brought to the Senate of Famagosta, and presently it was noised throughout the whole Army, that Nissena by right of succession Queen of Cyprus was she who accompanied by Eurania and Filarbo, would by her going into the Enemy's City put an end to the War, and conclude a well settled peace. She passed through the midst of the Army all covered over with a sad black mantle, but her fair countenance, her white bosom, and her lively eyes shown a Majesty so sweetly severe as she made herself at once be both feared and adored: She passed through the Army reverenced and adored as a Goddess: For wheresoever Mars governs, Venus finds always obsequious and devout hearts. The Commissioners were waited for by two chief Officers of the Senate at that gate of the Town which led towards the Camp: where Nissena being come, alighted out of the Coach, and led underneath the arms by Eurania and Filarbo, the Officers of Famagosta stood amazed no less at her beauty then at the unusual novelty of the Embassy, when they bound her eyes they in a low voice within themselves complained that they were to rob the people of the pleasing object of those eyes, which were unworthy to be covered, had it not been pretended that like sacred things, they were to be hidden underneath a vail. Thus said these two grey heads, at once both admiring and making themselves merry with Nissena's more than human beauty: But they stood musing not without suspicion of some future evil to what end this unusual Treaty of Women might be. Being admired by the people, she came into the Senate, nor needed this fairest Oratrice to win their attentions by any artificial Rhetoric, since all the Senators with their eyes fixed upon her, stood expecting what graceful and eloquent speech was to proceed from that mouth, which was so rich in treasures. Some of them, whose hearts were not frozen, though snow lay on their hair, said with fitting vivacity; How is it possible that she should treat of peace, whilst at the very first aspect her countenance intimates War? Having made her requisite reverence, and being sat on a chair which was prepared for her, whilst Eurania and Filarbo stood retired behind, she spoke thus.  
That fire of War, which with barbarous flames hath hitherto unduly embroiled and consumed the felicity of peace even to ashes, which hath wasted the fruit of the fields, exhausted the treasure of Exchequers, and been the death of those Subjects who have as gloriously as unopportunely shed their blood and lost their lives, is quenched: The fire of War, I say, most grave and wise Senators, is quenched: nor do I come hither to invite you to lay down arms, or to treat of peace, but to pronounce peace already established and concluded between your Commonwealth, and our Kingdom of Cyprus. Wonder not that I speak of peace already concluded and established: I very well know that in a Senate whose wisdom hath always been equal to their unwrested and immaculate Justice, Justice must also equal their impeccable and always constant wisdom. I speak of that Justice, by which upon so many occurrences, and affairs as well of Peace as War, you have delated the fame of your glory, not only throughout the whole circuit of this Island, but also throughout the whole World, which seems now too narrow a circuit to contain the noise thereof. I speak of that Wisdom, the least glories whereof are, the preserving of your Liberties unviolated, though subject to a regal Sceptre, and in this Liberty, the so bounding the provocations of ambition and authority, as all of you being equal Lords and Commanders, every one strives who shall most willingly submit to another's Government, knowing at once both how to obey and command. By this Justice, and this Wisdom, I see peace already granted to my proposals, though these virtues never appeared more eminently amongst you, then in your so generously taken up Arms of late against this Crown. I say the occasions of raising this War have been in you no less just, then was your Wisdom. How could you most grave Fathers, more wisely or more justly show your resentment of a Kings proceed, who requiring a Contribution from you impossible for you to disburse, would enforce you to be disobedient, that he might pretend to a lawful occasion of taking from you your senatory Authority, and by destroying a Commonwealth, which hath for so many ages enjoyed an Aristocratical Government? Alas! your Justice and your Wisdom could not be more worthily employed; but neither could your Justice nor your Wisdom be more unjustly betrayed by an infamous and wicked Minister of State, who falsifying the King's Seals, and abusing the authority wherewith he was undeservingly entrusted, made false reports be spread abroad amongst you, not only by counterfeit Orders in public Senate, but amongst private men by lying letters, that the intentions of that best and gracious King aimed at framing pretences to raise a war, whereby he might pretend to bereave you not only of the Name, Privileges, and authority, but even of the essence of a Commonwealth.  
This was the Traitor Mintaurus, who raised up to wealth by Fortune, to the favour of his natural Lord and Master, and to dignities, seeing the King left without succession, grew so greedily in love with the Sceptre, as to arrive at the managing thereof, he hath endeavoured and committed the most execrable villainies which could be wrought, I will not say by Man, but by any Infernal Fury. He was the wicked poisoner, who not to see his conceived hopes of reigning thrown to the ground by Thoas his marriage, did by mortiferous poison cause Death be mingled with his meat; whence in stead of passing to the joys of a Nuptial Bed, he is fatally and unfortunately passed to the horrors of the grave. This was the sacrilegious cozener, who to disturb the tranquillity of that marriage which might hinder his arrival at the Goal of his complotted ends, made her who was destined to be the King's wife, believe by false advertisements, that he would make her partner of his bed, not as his lawful wife, but as his dishonest whore. He is that cruel Parricide, who after having wickedly and ungratefully bereft him of life from whom he ought to acknowledge whatsoever he hath of greatness, glory, or riches; hath not only hindered that Nissena from peacefully succeeding to the Inheritance, who was by Thoas at his last expiring breath, with all cordiality left heir to the Kingdom, but hath usurped her authority, laid snares for her life, ta'en from her her liberty; and finally, stolen the Crown from her. He is the unworthy Tyrant who now unjustly sits upon the Regal Throne of Cyprus, having raised himself thereunto by cruelty, treachery, murder, injustice, and by the downfall of others. Let that same justice and wisdom then, grave Senators, which moved you to take up Arms against a King who was always partial to your interests, excite you to peace with your lawful Queen, and to revenge against that infamous subverter of the common quiet. This doth very well become your justice and wisdom too heinously offended and abused. You owe this in charity to her innocency, who by me implores help and secure from you. From you it is that she may have the Fortune to acknowledge her Kingdom, Liberty and Life, if by joining our Forces together we shall go to throw down that unworthy one from the Throne, who hath known how to make you appear unwise and unjust, who hath known how to steal a Sceptre, and who will know how to tyrannize over his subjects, and make impiety triumph every where. From you the people shall acknowledge their happiness, the Queen her Sceptre, and the Gods themselves respects and victims. Let it not be said that Lances be levelled, or Swords ta'en in hand either by your or our Soldiers in offence of one another, but let us jointly and unanimously turn our Arms to the ruin of that wicked Tyrant, of that enemy to our quiet, of that betrayer of our Liberty, to the most barbarous, disloyal, and most wicked man of as many as this day live. Let us run to revenge our Soldiers fallen in the last Battle, and let us offer as a Sacrifice to their shadows who do require it of us, the damned Deceiver, who hath been the fatal occasion of so much blood and death. Let us go to purchase unto ourselves by a short and easy war, a long and quiet peace; nay rather let us go to a glorious and certain triumph. Let us go then you who are as wise as generous. The untild and unmanured grounds oppressed, and as it were groaning under the Footsteps of fierce Soldiers, under the Iron Hoofs of warlike Horses, and under the weight of warlike Engines, do with flowery eloquence entreat it at our hands. Fruitful mothers fearing to see their children die by the unjust Axe, entreat it at our hands. Bride's do entreat us thereunto, fearing lest they may shortly bewail the loss of their beloved Consorts either shut up in prison or put to death upon the Gallows. We have the prayers of young Virgins for this, not sure to keep the flower of their virginity unviolated under the government of so perverse a Ruler, who will always foment lust and wickedness. Tender Babes from out their Cradles, with tears, & mouths new pulled from their mother's breasts, entreat us hereunto, being sure to have their innocency trampled under foot under the shadow of a Sceptre, which will protect and fauter triumphant faults. And finally, I Nissena of Rhodes, by inheritance lawful Successor of the Crown of Cyprus, the which doth as justly belong to me, as it hath been by Mintaurus unjustly possessed, 'tis I who beg this of you. The kingdom of due belongs to me, who wife to the late Thoas, was by him in his life time crowned Queen, & in his death confirmed in the Dominion. I, as such a one, do both demand and offer peace; and being betrayed and oppressed, I fly to you for justice and assistance. Let us then unite our forces I beseech you, and let us carry the War home to his gates who hath subverted peace. Nor will it be without glory to your renowned valour, that the Tyrant be by your means punished, and be by you hurled down to his own blood from his usurped Throne. Let us go, for I invite you to peace, glory, and victory.  
Here she held her peace: Nor was there any one in that great and grave Assembly, who did not joyfully and humbly offer to expose their own persons to any the greatest danger which might tend to remit her into her just and lawful possession of the crown. In the mean time they strove who should first come with bended knees to show with obsequiousness their duty to her Majesty. They placed her in the worthiest and most eminent place, whilst they with their hats off stood on foot; protesting unto her by the mouths of the best spoken men amongst them, their ancient devotion towards the Crown of Cyprus, and complaining of that false deceiver, who by abusive fraud had necessitated them to take up arms against their King, at all other times, and upon all other occasions respected and honoured by them as became them. They thanked her for the proffered peace, which they willingly accepted of, protesting themselves much bound unto her for that she was pleased to make use of them to recover her Kingdom. They offered unto her not only the public moneys, but even the moneys of their private purses, as much of their Army as was left; and finally, they acknowledged her, and bowed unto her as their lawful Queen, swearing eternal and inviolable allegiance to her, Whilst these Welcomes were exercised there, the Ladies of the City were advertised, that the exceeding fair Lady, who not long before was come thither under a pretence of Embassy, was the Queen Nissena, the merit of whose beauty had raised her to the Crown, and of whom they had formerly heard. Whereupon they, to pay their due respects to so great a Princess, and out of curiosity to see whether her beauty did answer to the fame thereof, putting on their richest Ornaments and best apparel, they went in guilded Coaches to the Palace, to serve and reverence her. The news of the concluded peace was this mean while spread abroad amongst the people, with which all the Citizens and common people being overjoyed, did every where applaud the Queen's beauty and wisdom. She came forth attended by the Ladies and Senators, many whereof waited upon her to the Camp, whilst the common people, that they might also see a beauty which knew how to merit Kingdoms, by the noise of Trumpets and beating up of Drums, filled the Heavens with shouts of Jubilee and rejoicing. Before 'twas night, the chief Commanders of the lately before enemy's Army, came to her Pavilion on the Senate's behalf, to receive her commands: offering themselves to march with their Militia, whithersoever she should command them, she received them in a grave and courteous manner, sending them back presented with some little Jewels which she had carried with her when she fled from Nicosia.  
This mean while consultation was had how and in what manner they were to departed, and Nissena thinking she had put the means already in a fair way whereby she might repossess herself of her Crown, had now nothing to afflict herself with, but the thought of her Doralbo, of whom hearing no news, she could little rejoice at any other good success, which either had or could happen unto her, She could not so much conceal this disquiet of her mind, but that she gave express command that before the Armies should march towards Nicosia, two of the most experienced and crafty Soldiers should be sent to learn some news of the Prince and of Theocastro, and at the same time to find with what number of Soldiers the City was guarded, and in what condition of peace and safety Mintaurus and Melaspus were with the people, whether beloved or hated: whether they behaved themselves as Lords and Kings, or whether but as Officers of the Kingdom.  
When Filarbo and Theocastro as hath been said before, saw Doralbo though wounded go from the Camp towards Nicosia, they thought it fit to follow him, whereupon not many hours after his departure, Theocastro took the same way. He came to the City at that fatal instant, when the Prince, desperate out of Nissena's believed death, having endeavoured to kill Melaspus, was committed to Prison. So as hearing of his being in hold, he thought it good to keep himself concealed, lest he might be thought guilty as complice of the attempted Homicides, and that he might the better observe what they resolved to do with the Prince, to the end that he might assist him, and purchase if it were possible, his safety and liberty, though it should cost him his life. Getting to this purpose into a friend's house on whose fidelity he might rely, he desired to know what urgent occasion had induced Doralbo to so strange and unadvised a resolution: and he was informed, that being provoked by his exceeding anger at the Queen's supposed death, he resolved to revenge her, whose death was afterwards found to be false, but that it was true that she was fled to Rhodes. He lamented his Cousin's misfortune, but much more Doralbo's danger, as being more grievous and more imminent; he being imprisoned, and exposed to the arbitrary judgement of an unjust, severe independent, and interressed Magistrate, from whom in all probability nothing but cruel resentments could be expected. He resolved therefore that very night to discover what Mintaurus his intentions were against the imprisoned Prince; and to this purpose he sent to the Lord Chancellor in the name of one of the chief Lords of the Court, to know whether sentence were already pronounced against Doralbo or no, as being already convinced of the Fact, so as all process or examination would prove superfluous. He could learn nothing from him, but that Mintaurus had sent for the chief Marshal, and given him some private directions. Theocastro growing hereby more desirous of information, would go himself, protected by the darkness of the night, to know of the chief Marshal, who was his familiar friend, whether Doralbo were in any eminent danger of death or no; This man lived near the Court, and from his Lodgings (where he his wife, and children lived) there was a passage through a narrow terrace to a pair of stairs which landed in a common little yard, but not much frequented, wherein were the first gates of the underground Prisons, in the worst and most incommodious whereof, the unfortunate Prince Doralbo was shut in, whose head by the Tyrant's command was to be struck off. Theocastro tarried till the night was well advanced, and then himself accompanied by his friend and one servant, went unknown, and as secretly as could be, to the Marshal's habitation, when coming near his gate, he might hear him chide his wife and daughters aloud, for that having already supped, they did not haste to make his bed, whereon he might for some two hours take his rest, what unusual haste is this that you are in, replied one of his daughters? and why no more than two hours' rest? to whom he fetching a deep sigh replied: Alas that I might rest all night in my bed, but I must ere long rise, and go with the headsman and some Soldiers, to take off unfortunate Prince Doralbo's head; who by a rash, but truly a generous action hath this day deserved to die. Divers words passed afterwards between the father, wife and daughters, which Theocastro did not very perfectly understand, who had heard sufficient to make him departed angered, and almost besides himself; in so much as he spoke not a word till he was come to his friend's house where he lay. Theocastro took his friend aside into a chamber, and then with a sad and melancholy countenance, vented to him his painful passion which oppressed him for Doralbo's approaching death: and resolved howsoever, he would venture his life to save him; he propounded unto him a means which might easily succeed, if he and four other armed men would second his resolutions. He put him in mind of the Prince his deserts, from whom he might expect to be gratefully requited, if so be the enterprise should prove successful. He minded him of his obligation, which as Nissena's Cousin, in whose revenge it was that Doralbo had done what he did, bound him to whatsoever dangerous attempt. How they should be rewarded by her, if she should regain her Kingdom; and finally he called unto his mind the public good in Mintaurus his downfall, whom he was assured he could infallibly kill: but that all was suddenly to be resolved upon, and to be put in execution, it being of necessity to be done within a few hours. His friend being all heart and courage, wholoved no less Doralbo's worth and valour, than he hated Mintaurus his Tyranny, offered himself ready to do any thing; and choosing two of his ablest and trusty servants, they provided themselves all four of excellent Arms, and leaving their own house went towards the chief Marshals Lodgings. They were not gone a bow-shot forward, when two Gentlemen that were brethren, but enemies to Mintaurus his faction, knocking at the gate of a noble Palace, desired help and assistance; they rejoiced to see themselves assisted not only by them, but by two of their swaggering companions, who were thought to be the best and most resolute blades of all Nicosia. They in a short time arrived very hush and quiet at the little yard by which the way lay to the Marshal's Lodgings: nor had they stayed there long when they might hear a noise out of a window, as of the clattering of keys, and of men who spoke loud enough; These were the Jailor, and the dog-leeches who were appointed to cut off unfortunate Doralbo's head, who coming in to hasten the chief Marshal, made ready the prison keys, and it being now somewhat late and a fitting time, were ready for the tragical execution. As they came out into the Terrace, Theocastro and his Companions withdrew themselves aside, and they having descended the stairs, opened the first gate, and entering in, would have shut it again, when they might see themselves assaulted by the armed and resolute Companions, and heard themselves threatened with present death, if they did not instantly without reply, or so much as breathing, deliver the keys unto them, and serve them quietly as a guide to the Prison wherein the condemned Prince was. It was bootless for those Officers to defend themselves, or by their outcries to call in help, which had they done, they would assuredly have hastened their threatened death; and 'twas impossible for them to be heard from that loteranean place, let them have cried never so loud: the first gate being already secured on the inside by the provident Gentlemen. To fight valiantly with their swords in hand, was not to be expected from base pusillanimous men, whose births and souls were as abject as was their profession. Not able to do otherwise, they resolved to obey: 'twas better for them to expose themselves to the hazard of a future and uncertain death, then to what was most certain and present. Theocastro knowing them to be cowardly and base spirited, said unto them with voice of terror: If you will readily obey our command, I will promise you both life and reward; if not, you are all dead men. Open those gates there quickly ho, and tell me as quickly what unjust act you were commanded to do by the Tyrant. Sir! said the chief Marshal, with a quivering voice, the heavens know how contrary it is to my genius to be employed in such like affairs, but the Fates will have it so. We are servants, and must serve by force, if not by good will. I humbly and submissively assign over into your protection my life, and the lives of these men which are now eyes safe from Mintaurus his rigour, if I do not before midnight be over, present him with Doralbo's head. Advance and let us in, replied Theocastro, thou shalt present him with the Prince's head, but in another manner than he expects. Whilst they were thus discoursing they came to the door which was already open, and which opened into the narrow moist noisome and dark dungeon, in which with his hands strait tied together with a cord, the sad and already languishing Prince stood leaning against the wall; he was not able to endure the torch light, being disaccustomed from light, wherefore he turned his face from them whilst he thus spoke: How now my friends, the hour of my death is now come, is it not? yes, yes, draw near boldly, let the wicked Tyrant glut himself with my blood, for death does no whit dismay me, save only that I could not first revenge the death of that innocent fair one whom none but that barbarous fellow could have the heart so cruelly to kill. Death is to me most welcome, which will open the same way unto me through which my soul is already past; miserable Doralbo, how great is thy misfortune, who being born a Prince, must die by the hands of a hangman: but patience; come near I say, give me only so much leave as I may pronounce and often repeat Nissena's name, and then let the fatal blow come; for I desire nor beg nothing more at your hands but that I may breathe forth my soul with that beloved name in my mouth.  
Theocastro appearing then smilingly before him, said, Talk not of Death, Sir, where your servant Theocastro is; here am I, with these my faithful friends, ready either to free you out of prison, or nobly to lose our lives together with you. Now 'tis that you must recall unto you that generosity and valour which was born with you. Nissena lives, Sir, and we will all live to his shame and confusion who hath occasioned these troubles: Come out from this noisome hole, and joyfully follow me. The tears gushed into Doralbo's eyes for joy, when he heard that Nissena was alive, who weeping almost downright, spoke thus, It would not much import, my friend, though you should abuse me in promising me my life and liberty; but your sin would not be small, if you should tell a falsehood that Nissena lives. Is it true that she is alive? She lives, she lives, Sir, (replied Theocastro) 'tis not I that do deceive you, 'tis you yourself, who believing her to be dead, would unseasonably and precipitously revenge that death which she did not suffer. She and Eurania to escape Mintaurus his violence, fled away: and to facilitate and secure their escape, they cunningly left the bed and floor all besmeared with blood. At these words Doralbo cheered up, and his hands being untied by one of the Gentlemen that accompanied Theocastro, he had the chief Marshals weapons given him; who, together with the rest of his Officers, was forced to lay them down, and to take an oath that they would do whatsoever should be commanded them. They resolved to wrap up somewhat or other, it mattered not what which should be about the bulk or Bookdome of Doralbo's head, with the which the chief Marshal going before, might guide them all into the Castle where Mintaurus was, who had formerly given order unto the Guard, that about that hour they should suffer any of the Officers of Justice to come in, and stood longingly expecting, to see in that hated head his son's revenge, and himself in a good part secured of the Kingdom. They past, not meeting with any interruption, to the chamber door, wherein the Tyrant lay in Bed, but awake, reading some letters which he had received from divers of the Precedents, who acquainted him with affairs belonging to the Kingdom. The fatal hour, Mintaurus, is arrived, wherein thou must pass from this life, to give an account to the Eternal Gods, for thy so many and so execrable misdoings; and thou dreamest of nothing less than dying. Thus doth Heaven punish the wicked, when they do least think on't. Doralbo entered first with a Dagger drawn in his right hand, and followed by the rest: he flew towards the bed with so sudden a force, as the Tyrant seeing himself so unexpectedly set upon by him, whom he conceived to be already beheaded, he could not for very fear speak so much as one word: save that when he had received four or five stabs, he cried out, You have overcome, O you Traitors: and wallowing in his own blood, upon the same Bed wherein he thought shortly to take quiet rest, he remained a dead, bloody, and horrid Karkass, as an example to all rash men, who think it lawful to provoke the Divine anger with reiterated faults, persuading themselves that they shall escape unpunished. It remained now for the Prince and his companions to secure the Castle; but it was first resolved that Theocastro should immediately get out of the City, and make with all speed for Rhodes, where the public report was that Nissena was gone. At whose desires he might very well hope, that Prince Fermondo would not refuse two well armed Galleys, fraught with good store of Soldiers; the which the tyrant being dead, and Doralbo commanding the Castle, would suffice to reinvest her in her Throne; or if she herself would come along, she should find many of the Nobility who would side with her, and be sure to have the adherence of all the common people; so as with those few people which she should bring with her, she might easily recover the Crown. Long consultation was had whether the small Garrison which did guard the Castle, was to be won by threats, or by gold, great store of which was found in Mintaurus his chests: but the very noise that Prince Doral'o had made himself master thereof, and had killed the Tyrant, was sufficient to make the Soldiers come of themselves, and offer their service to him; by whom being received as became a Prince, and rewarded with good sums of money, they swore to be faithful to him till death.  
Theocastro went forth upon his intended enterprise, and the draw bridge being hoist up, and the Portcullis let down, Mintaurus his body was hung out upon a Battlement of the Castle which was most exposed to the view of the City. The sight of this horrid and unlooked for spectacle the next morning, caused joy in many, in others fear, and in all men wonder. I am not able to express into what raging fury Melaspus fell when he heard this fatal accident. All men discoursed diversely, accordingly as they were particularly addicted or inclined, how and by whom so great and dangerous a deed could be effected; but understanding that the prison gates stood open wherein Doralbo was shut up, and that the chief Marshal, and some other subordinate Officers were missing, they all of them did partly guess what the matter might be. Foolish Melaspus supposing himself betrayed, and not knowing by whom, fell into such threatening and inconsiderate speeches, as did displease many even of his own faction: he would blow up the Castle, bury his Father under the ruins of the whole City, make Rivers run with human blood, and kill a great many that were innocent; so as amongst so many any one might be met withal who was guilty of his Father's death, or had but the least hand in it. And yet by all these threats and violences the unwary young man got nothing but the general hatred both of the Nobility and common people. Many days were not past, when yet to his further vexation, nay even to the reducing him to despair, he heard news by a Messenger, who came running, out of breath, that a numerous Army which came from the East, overspread all the Country, coming towards Nicosia, and that they could not at that time be above twenty miles off. Enraged and biting his finger's ends, he in a disdainful manner broke forth into these words, I see you unjust Heavens, you cannot employ your malign Influences but to my prejudice, for which if I cannot for the present show any resentment, I will not howsoever die unrevenged; I will likewise learn to perish gallantly. Let them come, let my enemies hasten to bereave me of my life, for I am ready to die, but I will first make myself a Tomb of their Carcases. Let them come, they shall not find me running away, but ready to stand their shock. Thus he spent two hours, or thereabouts, blaspheming the Gods, and cursing his perverse stars; but at last his anger breathing a little over, he betook himself to more peaceful, and less imprudent thoughts, he resolved to withdraw himself from his present misfortune, hoping to get to Soria, and by his Wealth, Wit, and Gallantry, to return again to Cyprus, and to regain his fortune by the blood and ruin of his enemies. Having heaped up as much gold, and as many jewels as he could, he went with some of his faithfullest and dearest friends, towards the Haven, where having hired an English Man of War, he launched immediately into the Deep, where fortune appeared yet more adverse unto him. His Vessel was not well got into the Issican Gulf, when it must suffer it self to be disposed of at the pleasure of an impetuous wind, which blowing from the North, made the ship take a clean contrary Road from what it was bound for. They sunk their Anchors to stay the violence of their course; but their greatest Cable being burst in two by a violent gust of wind, they were tossed too and fro for three nights and two days by the storm; which after having hurled them every where about those Seas, left them at last becalmed with their ship all torn, a day and a halves sail from Cyprus to the Eastward.  
By how much Melaspus' misfortune was in ploughing up the Seas, so much the more successful was Theocastro's voyage in a light Pinnace towards Rhodes; whether being come, he heard that that very day Nissena's funerals were celebrated, the being bewailed for dead by her friends, and by the whole Island. Of which the better to assure himself, he went directly to the Temple of Pallas, where in doleful pomp this sad solemnity was to be celebrated. He was astonished, and wept at this unexpected accident; but his grief and astonishment lasted not long: For meeting with a Gentleman who was much his friend, and who embracing him, welcomed his return to Rhodes. Theocastro being impatient, asked him how and when Nissena died? You are better able to acquaint us with the manner & time thereof, replied his friend; for forasmuch as I believe you are now come from Cyprus, and aught to know all the circumstances of the death of the unfortunately betrayed Nissena. How, said Theocastro, did she not die here at Rhodes, whither she fled to save herself from the deceits & treachery of the Tyrant Mintaurus? She is so far from being dead in Rhodes, replied the other as she hath notbin seen here; but we received certain & public advertisement, that by direction from the forementioned Tyrant, she was barbarously wounded and slain, as she lay in bed. So, so, the Gods be praised, said Theocastro, Nissena is not dead, though her funerals be celebrated here. I came three days since from Nicosia, where the common report is that she is here, and I am come hither to bring her good news, and it may be to carry her back with me to take possession of the Kingdom. But for God's sake, before the truth of this be publicly known, let us see the sad solemnity celebrated, at the which we may assist the less sorrowfully, in that we know 'tis done for one that is alive: and therefore rather to be laughed at then lamented.  
They went to the Temple, which being built by skilful artificers in a no very large square figure, gloried in white Marble, though then all covered over with black Velvet, all embroidered over and richly wrought with gold and silver, and at fitting distances Imperial Crowns dashed to pieces; broken Sceptres, and huge Pearl shaped ●nto tears, to the end that at so fatal a spectacle the very walls might seem to weep. From the highest Tribunal, shaped in a perfect round, and all veiled over with black, divers Cupidons hung upon undiscernible threads of brass, weeping, and in several postures with torches lighted in their hands, seemed as if they flew in the air. Underneath another lesser Tribunal just opposite to the chief Porch, an altar was raised trampled on by a statue of Pallas, which clothed in mourning mantles, having on her breast a black breastplate, and on her head a helmet of like hue, held a lance in her right hand, and in her left a buckler or shield, wherein was cut agastly Gorgon's head, and which as the Funeral lasted, vomited forth artificial fires from its gaping mouth, and ill looking eyes: in the midst of the Temple there stood a square half pace, of a well proportioned height, adorned with handsome cornishes, and other artificial pieces of Architecture, the materials whereof seemed to be of purest touchstone, and from the eyes and mouths of certain antic faces which lay thereon, great store of perfumed flames gushed out. Over the half pace stood a Ballaster, on whose uppermost Cornish sweet smelling incense fumed forth from odd fashioned races, hung at equal distance; from thence the three Graces made of purest Alabaster, served for pedestals to a capacious Fountain, the more miraculous and lovely for that instead of water, it in divers places ran in rivulets of fire. In midst of this pile stood a naked Cupid weeping, and having his eyes bound up, and which was upheld with an Atlas curiously cut out in red Marble, from whose quiver burst out continual torrents of flames to supply the Urn which stood beneath with combustible materials. Thus with great demonstrations of public sorrow, did Prince Fermondo and all the people of Rhodes bewail the death of that Nissena, whose beauty if it had given her a Kingdom, it had (as was given out in that Island) by an unworthy change, bereft her of life.  
I mention not the quality of the Sacrifices, and other ceremonies which are commonly used in those Temples upon such like occasions, because our ages have not been acquainted therewithal. The two Gentlemen did both admire and laugh at this noble Funeral Pomp, which by how much more stately it was, was so much the more vain, and worthy to be laughed at, because her sad cold ashes were therein celebrated, who was never better pleased, nor more content than at that hour. The Funerals being ended Theocastro went to see his friends and kindred, whom he acquainted with the falsehood of Nissena's reported death, and told them that instead of bewailing her as dead, he hoped they would shortly solemnize her assumption to the Kingdom; wherein she would be the more glorious and happy by her arriving thereat through the midst of a thousand treasons and treacheries in vain plotted against her by Mintaurus. He told them all that had happened, and then going to kiss Prince Fermondo's hands, he moved both wonder and mirth in him, by witnessing that Nissena was alive, for the recovery of whose Kingdom he desired him to assist her only with two well armed Galleys; for which he might afterward at all times and upon all occasions, expect the like requital from the Queen, who would in a great part acknowledge the recovery of her Crown from his succour. Nissena shall acknowledge no obligation to me, said gracious Fermondo, since the justice of her cause, and her own merit would have prompted me to greater things than this, to which I am bound as I am a Prince and a Gentleman. If two Galleys will not suffice you take four. My care shall be to give order for them, and let it be your care to make speedy use thereof, lest she may suffer in her interest by delay. Be prosperous in your journey, salute her in my name, and entreat her to make use of me to the utmost of my power. Theocastro returned all due thanks, and took his leave, thinking suddenly to go from Rhodes; though he stayed a many days, being detained by tempestuous weather. This mean while he was desired to take Emerino for Captain of one of the Galleys, he who was once so far in love with Nissena; but his flames of affection being extinguished in the tears of desperation, he had changed his love affections into the like of Friendship, or rather of obsequiousness, desiring to go to Cyprus for no other reason, but only that he might glory that he had not at all erred in the choice of his love, by bequeathing his heart to a beauty, who deserved the government of Venus her kingdom. The storms being over, they put from the haven in a serene calm, but the second day after their departure, they met with contrary winds and foul weather, a calm ensuing not long after, they might see a ship not far off, which lying at Anchor, was by the provident Mariners mended in what she had suffered by the last storms: they turned a little out of their way to satisfy their curiosity in knowing to whom she did belong, and from whence she came, and this they did the rather for that they might perhaps, learn from those that were within her some tidings of the affairs of Cyprus: So as they steered their course thitherward, and cheering up their Gallie-slaves with excellent wines, they encouraged them to row apace: assoon as the two Galleys were come within Canonshot, they were in an unusual and barbarous manner shot at by four piece of Cannon; so as instead of getting information, they were enforced to prepare for fight. Theocastro's Galley received an unlucky shot with two bullets beneath the Poop, which giving large entrance unto the water, made them strike sail, and ship their Oars, to keep out the sea which fraudulently stole in and was ready to swallow up the Galley. This mean while Emerino's Galley boarded the Enemy, and after a dangerous fight behaved herself so gallantly, as with great slaughter of the Enemy, she got a bloody victory; there was one Gentleman in the Enemy's ship, who fight valiantly, had drawn much blood from the Rhodians, and in a bold and barbarous manner, would never yield; so as they were forced to load him with Irons, and by force to drag him out of the ship, whence together with him they took great store of treasure, and brought it and him into their Galley, leaving the ship without any sails to the pleasure of the winds and water: the other rent Gallie being in some sort mended, Theocastro came in to secure his companion; but met with no other occasion save only to rejoice with him for his victory: They shown him their booty, and amongst other prisoners, to his great wonder and astonishment, he found the Gentleman loaded with Irons to be Melaspus, over whom Fortune would have thought she should not have sufficiently insulted, had she not after so many miseries brought him into the hands of his Enemies. Theocastre was as glad of this desired Prey, as was Melaspus grieved and almost mad to see himself in his power: whilst Emerino understanding who he was, thanked his destiny for having delivered up Nissena's chiefest enemy into his power, to whom he thought he could not present a more acceptable gift. They forthwith hoist their sails, and gave such way with their Oars as showed their great desire to come suddenly to shore at Cyprus; they sailed so swiftly befriended by a Westerly wind, and the Galley slaves plying their Oars, as within the space of five hours, they began to discover the tops of the promontaries which are in the west part of Cyprus: nay they did already discover the top of high Olympus, which being almost in the midst of the Island, seems to join the earth and stars together.  
Nissena was already parted with the two Armies from the parts about Famagosta some days since, marching towards Nicosia. The Commonwealths horse led the Van, those of the Crown followed them, and after these came she, backed by two Troops of choice Gentlemen, and carried in a chair, having all the Foot for her rearward: Agenor. and Filarbo never parted from her side, entertaining her sometimes with pleasant, sometimes with grave, and sometimes with sad discourse. Of which later sort their communing was when they spoke of Doralbo's danger, whose name though she were glad to hear of, yet was she troubled to think some misfortune might have befallen him.  
They made not much haste in their march, for though pioneers went before them to make the ways more easy for passage, they endeavoured to march so, as they might do least prejudice to the Country: and the Queen was delighted to be with the Armies, who therefore did not march faster, or further then seated with her conveniency. At last they encamped themselves within 7 miles of Nicosia, and were preparing to make nearer approaches with part of the Army, and if it should be thought sitting to storm the City walls, when the 2 Soldiers who were formerly sent to inquire after Doralbo, and to learn how affairs went in Nicosia, came and desired that they might be admitted into the Queen's presence, who did not only give them audience willingly, but when they were brought to her, did with some anxiety and impatience solicit them to say quickly what they had of good or bad to tell her. It was superfluous (said they) that your Majesty should come attended with such Forces thither, where you are expected with such devotion by Prince Doralbo, by the Nobility, and by all the people, who look for you, we would say as for a Goddess, did we not think we should offend your modesty, which will be contented that we shall say as a Queen by them reverenced and beloved. You are come with an intention of fight, and your fight is turned to triumph. Here they acquainted her at large with all that had befallen Doralbo, who had been in extreme danger of losing his life in revenging her believed death: but that being delivered by Theocastro, he had slain the Tyrant; and that afterwards hearing of Melaspus his being fled, he was come out of the Castle with the general applause both of the Nobility and common people; and that he already had in her name made himself absolute Master of the City, on which the secure dominion of all the rest of the Kingdom did depend. That having heard of her coming by some strangers, he was already on his way to come and meet her, and to receive her after so many troubles, into the absolute possession of that Crown, which was due unto her by her so many deserts, and for so many other reasons.  
Nissena was mightily pleased with this news; but the hearing that her beloved Doralbo had run hazard of his life, only in her revenge, caused so great a passion of heart in her, as though it were the effect of joy, had yet somewhat mixed with it of sorrowful and bitter; passions which she wisely concealed. Having rewarded the Soldiers with a rich chain of Massy gold, they were dismissed, and she immediately (her impetuous-love passion ceasing a little) gave Order that all the Commanders and chief men of the City should follow her, for she would go towards Niccsia. The Sun hasted towards the West, to leave the World in darkness, and Doralbo accompanied with above an hundred Gentlemen, spur●d on his Horse towards that Sun which brought unto him a rise of joy, and whose bright beams he hoped to enjoy in spite of the approaching night. Nissena when she heard a far off the noise of Trumpets, which advertised her of her Warrior's approach, she felt her heart not only beat, but flutter so within her breast, as she thought she had been near death, and that those were the last beat of her soul which would open the passage to get out of her body. When Doralbo heard from  off, the thunder of those Drums which preceded the lightning of that countenance with which his adored Nissena came to assault him; he much to his amazement fell a trembling, even then when he found himself more than ever inflamed with unquenchable heat. At last these two souls in love, who had long since encountered each other in their affections, met one another now with their eyes: Nor did the noise of a thousand musket shot, of a hundred Trumpets, and of as many other War Instruments, mixed with the neighing and trampling of horses, and common shouts of joy, hinder them from hearing one another say with their looks, and strive who should best express themselves therein; Well met dear eyes so long desired: I now do more than ever feel the fire of love. Thus they said in a language understood by none but themselves.  
Doralbo leapt from horseback, and had not she hindered him, was ready to fall down prostrate before Nissena, to whom with a trembling voice he said: Your Majesty is at last returned to Nicosia to receive that Crown, which will be proud of the honour of encircling your Temples: you are come to receive some shadow of that reward which is due to the Immensity of your merit. I have not been wanting for whatlies in my power, to sacrifice my life to the Deity of your greatness: but the Gods have pleased to preserve me that upon some other occasion I may be ready to lose it: I shall do it at all times, O my Queen, for your service, for whose sake death would have been and shall ever be welcome to me. He would have proceeded, but was thus by her interrupted. Sir, I know how great my obligations are to you; the Crown of Cyprus would be but a weak return of Gratitude for what you have done for me. Let it suffice I am not ungrateful. Doralbo would have replied, but struck through with a pleasing smile and affable look from her, his answer was turned into a sigh, which though it were cut short off, made the enamoured Queen fully understand that she was the Shrine that he adored. She afterwards applied herself to receive obsequious applications from the other Gentlemen, who with reverence bowed unto her, to whom she answered with such a Majestical Grace, as all of them blamed Fortune, which had so long kept her from that sublime degree which her so many perefctions did deserve. All the Ladies of Nicofia came to her clothed in black, as a Livery which they wore to the memory of the deceased King, and to their Queen's Widowhood, to whom humbly bowing themselves, they found in her an affable but not abject correspondency; such as shown Majesty, but not pride: whence that reverential love began in them, with which Nissena was ever after respected and beloved by all her Subjects of whatsoever condition. Before they could get to Nicosia, darkness had canopied over the whole Orison, so as the great abundance of lighted Torches and Bonsires' did in an instant so enlighten the darkness of the night, as it had no reason to envy the brightest day; and yet all these flames and heats appeared to Doralbo but obscure horrors in respect of those beams which darted from Nissena's eyes. She came unto the Palace amidst the noise of Warl●ck Instruments, & the shouts and acclamations of the rejoicing people; and calling to mind how she had not long before fled from thence abandoned by all, and how she now returned reverenced and cried up, nay as it were, adored, she could not but admire the strauge fickleness of Fortune.  
She would not forbear giving of audience, and receiving congratulations from the numerous inundation of Ladies, Lords, Tituladoes, and personages of all condition, till she was insufferably weary; but at last she was enforced to betake herself to her rest. She gave order that Eurania, Doralbo, Agenor of Soria and Filarbo should sup in private with her: the chief Commanders of the Army having their Lodgings appointed out to them in the Court, and being treated with such sumptuosity as belonged unto them. The Armies were entertained in the field with such abundance of rich Wines, of which Cyprus is very plentiful, & with such variety of Viands, as the Soldiers spent the whole night almost in their cups and eating. The Queen was ready to sit down with the others at the Table when she was informed that two Gentlemen of Rhodes desired audience: bring them in, said she, I shall soon dispatch them Theocastro and Emerino entered together with the miserable Melaspus loaded with Irons, who prostrating themselves before her, presented Melaspus to her as a slave. All were amazed at this so unexpected a sight; but Doralbo, I know not whether out of disdain or pity, a colour coming into his face, broke forth into these words: The Heavens at last leave no guilty persons unpunished. Who would ever have imagined most gracious Queen, that this fellow should at this time be brought hither in this condition, perfectly to complete your Majesty's happiness and safety? These, said she, are miracles which divine Justice knows only how to bring about: Let him be led unto the Castle, and let him be well treated there, I bequeath him to you Prince Doralbo; appointing you to be his Judge; but upon this condition, that you absolve him of being partaker of his father's wickedness. Go and be of good comfort Melaspus, said Doralbo, you have already begun to taste of the Queen's clemency. Theocastre and Emerino, having recounted their adventures, sat down likewise at the Table with Nissena, who had leisure enough at a long and gladsome supper, to let Doralbo know by her most modest favours, that she loved him better than herself.  
Four whole days were passed over by these two Lovers, neither of them daring to discover their affections, unless by their looks, and by letting some little words escape which equivocally noted their inward heat of heart; in which Nissena busied herself only in dispensing her rewards and favours, and in winning not only the love, but the Idolatry of her Subjects. Nissena thought it unbefitting her to speak her love to Doralbo, and though she knew she was in regard of her priority bound to begin first in the declaration thereof, and was sometimes resolved to do so, her innate modesty would not suffer her so to do, or else her very affection hindered her: it being impossible for one who truly loves, to say he loves. Doralbo who did not believe he merited Nissena's service, much less her love, would rather have chosen to die, then to make his affection known unto her by discovery of his flames: Who am I, (said he within himself) or what am I, that I should pretend love unto so beautiful a Queen? 'Tis true, I am born a Prince: I have served her to the evident neglect of my life, and I love her more dearly than mine own soul. But what's all this? She merits greater things: Should I discover my love, and she not correspond with me therein, what would become of me? is it not safer to say nothing, to serve, observe, and nourish still my hopes, then to receive my death from her scorn, or from her flat denial? if she be pleased to Crown our love with reward, she will not want ways and means how to do it. Thus did both she and he in vain lament; which crafty Eurania perceiving, and compassionating their too abstenious rave, she invited them one day after dinner into a Closet to see certain Pictures, wherein were drawn to the life the affections between Venus and Adonis, and hence she took an occasion freely to say unto them; this is the way of love my Children; I know Nissena and Doralbo, that you burn in love each with other in unquenchable fires, and strive who should love one another best; why do you then thus idly consume yourselves away, cold in the midst of flames? Say Nissena, I take thee Doralbo for my husband. Say you Doralbo, I take thee Nissena for my wife: so so, embrace each other; Matrimonial love is no shame to the world, nor fault committed against heaven. The two Lovers, with a blushing countenance and ill assured look, confirmed her say, and grew so bold, as at one and the same instant they ran so greedily to interchange a kiss, as their souls had almost flown through excess of joy from out their enamoured breasts.  
Here ended the sorrws, and began the joys of Nissena and Doralbo, who reigned prosperously, and loved each other faithfully all their life.  
FINIS.