LOVE in Distress: OR, THE Lucky Discovery.  
A NOVEL.  
Written by The Honourable Lady ***  
LONDON: Printed by W. Onley, for H. Newman in the Poultry, S. Briscoe in Covent Garden, and H. Nelme in Cornhill. 1697.   

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THere is now Published, Mr. Dennis 's Miscellany Poems, with several select Translations from Horace, Juvenal, Mr. Boileau ' s Epistles, Satyrs, etc. and Aesop 's Fables in Burlesque Verse: To which is added, the Passion of Byblis; with some Critical Remarks on Mr. Oldham; with other Letters and Poems.   

To my Dear FLAVIA.  
MADAM,  
THAT Time I stole from my more Airy Diversions, I dedicated to this little Piece●, and though my first design was not to have published it, nor ever desired any Eyes to encounter it, but yours, and my own; yet for that Presumption I lay it at your Feet, and beg your Protection, with a Charitable Endeavour to Peruse it with a partial Eye, and excuse the first Sallies of so unworthy a Pen; yet were I capable of producing the most deserving Volume in the Universe, I should be Ambitious of no Nobler a Patroness: For it is not the sound of a great many Titles that I covet, which, oftentimes like a hectoring Bully, makes a great Noise, with little or no Courage; not that I despise true Nobility, nor admire it farther than the Intrinsic Value.  
I have nothing to plead for the Meanness of the Present, nor any Reasons for the many Objections you or any other may make, if you please to Criticise; only you have here the first Draught of sometimes a Pleasant, sometimes a hypocondriac Brain, without ever rectifying; yet my dear (Flavia) accept of this humble Offering from a Friend, and afford it the Reading; some leisure Hour after the soft Message of your Lover's Sighs has been whispered to your Ears, and experimentally taught you, Love is not that Trifle to be ridiculed at pleasure, but rather the most serious Business of our Lives; nor imagine it too foolish a Subject to entertain you, but reflect on the Sallies of your own Heart, and after mature Examination, if you find that youthful Bosom incapable of a tender Impression, I will readily submit to the most rigid Principle of the morosest Stoic; but pardon my Opinion, if I believe it impossible, and dare confidently affirm, so much Vivacity, Wit, Fire, and Beauty cannot be incapable of an honourable Sentiment: This is a sort of Natural Philosophy, at least a Woman's Philosophy, the only Theme they can Write of; and all these different Passions are agitated by Love, Scorn, Jealousy, Anger and Resentment, which if not displayed in their true Colours, consider the Author, and force a Complaisance.  
I would avoid all things in the common Road of Flattery, therefore I eat a Character I could be very copious on, and only tell you, If this Trifle has but the Influence to effect a Smile from you, or the good Luck to disperse some melancholy Cloud that would eclipse the Lustre of your Glorious Mind, I shall have the utmost of my Hopes, and esteem myself rewarded even to the height of my Lavish Wish.  
I could say a great deal in Commendation of Love, what Effects it has had over the profoundest Philosophers, the most Judicious and Learned, even those who have most contemned that Passion, have been delivered up to the most sensible Touch of it; bring authentic Authors to prove as much; produce the wonderful Effects of it in these Days; but that is not my part, I justify nothing, but leave it to your Mercy; and if you do afford it your favourable Protection, I shall be proud I had the Occasion to show my Choice in a Person of such singular Virtues, such nice and refined Sentiments, such inestimable Merits, and One whom ten thousand Advantages, besides that of Friendship, induces me ever to Subscribe myself,  
Your Devoted Friend, and Humble Servant, CORINNA.   

To CORINNA, on her Novel entitled, Love in Distress: or, The Lucky Discovery.  

I Begged Apollo, that he would inspire,  
For once, my Breast with such Poetic fire,  
That I your Praise might to the World recite,  
And show how much I value what you writ:  
But the ill-natured God did Aid refuse,  
Envious at Merit in a Female-Muse.  
Spite of the Churl, boldly I'll pay a Mite,  
Tho' I expose myself by what I writ.   

Your Lines are strong, so easy flows your Wit  
Your Verse so smooth, your Sense is so polite,  
That you are sure the Muse's Favourite.  
To what a wondrous pitch in time you'll grow,  
Who can such Judgement on a Trifle show!  
Trifles indeed to what your Mind possess;  
Proceed Corinna, and ne'er fear Success.   
PHILANDER.   

To my much-loved Sister, Mrs. S. R. alias, my Sister the Lady P. on her Novel entitled, Love in Distress: or, The Lucky Discovery.  
THus dare a Brother venture to commend  
Your first Attempt, and say 'tis nicely penned.  
Assist me then, ye Muses, that I lose  
Not one aspiring Thought which I could choose.  
That I, inspired by you, may add to Fame,  
And celebrate my dear Corinna's Name.  
Well, could I give her Merit just Desert,  
Can I express the Dictates of my Heart,  
But 'tis impossible, not all your Aid  
Can speak my Raptures of that Charming Maid.  
And, oh! I blush, that to my own Disgrace  
I want Assistance for a Sister's Praise;  
Yet I'll not wonder, 'tis her lavish Store  
Has bankrupt mine, and rendered me so poor.  
Fain would I from a Character so true,  
So natural, and well displayed by you,  
Give injured innocent Canace her Due.  
Deplore the desperate Octavio's Fate,  
Applaud that Turn of Fortune you relate,  
With so much Passion, Eloquence, and Wit,  
That whoever reads must feel what you have writ,  
Let not one Character escape true Praise,  
And crown each lucky Thought with golden Bays:  
But, oh! in vain I've only the Desire;  
For your bright Flame puts out my weaker Fire.  
J. R.   

To CORINNA, on her Novel entitled, Love in Distress: or, The Lucky Discovery.  
THe painted Grapes that drew the feathered Train,  
Provoked their hunger, but provoked in vain:  
Advancing near, they soon perceived the Cheat,  
And left, unsatisfied, the Fairy Treat.  
Your lively Fancy does at once invite,  
And feast our ravished Souls with true delight.  
Strange Art! that o'er our Sense such power can gain,  
To make us feel those Passions which you feign!  
Their Adoration basely they misplace,  
Who are enamoured only on a Face;  
But conquered, and of Liberty bereft,  
Your Captives have at least this Comfort left,  
That honourably vanquished, we submit  
To double Charms of Beauty and of Wit:  
By these delightful Spells our Hearts are seized,  
Fond of our Chains, and with our Ruin pleased.  
But when you die, (as pity 'tis you must)  
Instead of mouldering into common Dust,  
As a Reward for your ingenious Pen,  
The Muses have decreed, Corinna then  
Shall mount to them, and make their number Ten.  
STREPHON.   

LOVE in Distress: OR, THE LUCKY DISCOVERY.  
LIsbon, the principal City of Portugal, famous for its curious Traffic, and no less to be admired for the producing of Worthy and Brace Heroes; amongst the rest, a Noble Youth (whose Extraction was derived from the most Illustrious Sebastian, the Nephew of John the Third, King of Spain and Portugal, who was unfortunately slain in the Field of Alcazar in Africa) and whose Royal Virtues, and Heroic Actions, might worthily contain as many Volumes as our Atlas: But rather than derogate in the least from his acquired, and renowned Fame, I will omit all Circumstances of his Valour, and only recount the Amorous part of his Life, with Impartiality.  
His Parents enjoyed all the Blessings of Peace, Honour, Wealth and Tranquillity; all the Comforts that the World, or Nature can bestow upon Mortals in this lower Sphere; yet nothing added more to their secret Satisfaction and Felicity, than the springing Virtues, and Beauty of Melantius, which was the Name of this most Excellent Person. It was now he was attained to the Twenty third Year of his Age, and with that to all the Perfections, that a Soul stamped with the Image of a Deity, could be capable of: It was therefore no wonder if his Parents were throughly sensible of his Deserts, and knew how to set a considerable value on so inestimable a Jewel; they feared that his Generous and Ambitious Humour, would prompt him forward to be acting something worthy of himself: And indeed he had often solicited them to permit him to assist the Christians, against the increasing Power of the Insulting Turk. He pleaded the Justice of the Cause, the Shame of an Unprofitable Life; and, in short, he told them, his Soul glowed within him, to be attempting that which he had often envied in other Brave Men; he urged that the Plenty of the World ought not to indulge a Man in Idleness; he had recourse to the Emblem of the Bees, and their abhorrence of the slothful Drone: He omitted no Argument that might prevail; he feared no Danger, nor apprehended Fate, but begged he might have leave to try his Fortune where Glory was to be gotten, and not like a Dunghil-weed rot at the Spot he grew.  
They heard, (and often blessed the Auspicious Hour that gave him Birth) but never could be brought to condescend, that he should launch for Fortune in the uncertain World: They told him, It was not the Just and Brave, that always reap the Benefit of their own Merits, for fickle Fortune is a Jilt, and often favours Fools and Knaves; yet found no Argument strong enough to diminish in the least, the aspiring Spirit of this Gallant Youth. At last they thought a Married Life the Infallible Remedy to secure the only Pledge of all their former Joys: He then found himself pressed to Marry, his Relations having proposed to him a Match out of one of the Noblest Families in Portugal; her Name Aspasia, only Child to the Duke Antonio de Almeyda, a Lady whose Perfections, balanced with her Quality and Fortune, had made numerous Captives of less amorous Souls than our Melantius.  
It was a short Voyage down the famous River Tajo, that conducted him to the Scene of bliss, first under pretence of a complimental Visit; the Duke received him with an extraordinary and hearty Welcome, which he returned, by a grateful acknowledgement of his Favour.  
The Duke to divert his Noble Guest, entertained him with a sight of his magnificent Palace, where he took great delight in viewing the unparallelled Statues, and Paintings, and the curious Ceilings, done by the most famous Masters of the Age. After he had satisfied his Curiosity, as well as he could in so short a time, the Duke led him into his Garden, which for the fine Situation, and lovely Prospect, the Orange, Lemon, and Citron-Trees, continually in Blossom, Fruit of all sorts, and variety of all Flowers, pleasant shady Wildernesses, refreshing and artificial Fountains; and, in short, all that Nature or Art could render curious, made this exquisite Spot of Ground be justly termed the Paradise of Portugal.  
Their wand'ring Steps led them into a retired Walk, where Melantius was surprised with the sight of a Beauty; and altho' the Jessamin-Hedges, which were very thick on each side, had eclipsed some part of her Charms; yet he had discovered so many Perfections, that he was resolved to approach this unguarded Fair; who, if Heaven had informed, with a Soul agreeable to her Body, he had no farther thought, than an entire resignation of himself: With these Contemplations he entered the Arbour, not observed by the Duke, who was just turned to gather a Flower, which gave him opportunity to gaze, as one void of sense, upon this Lovely Fair. 'Twas at that Instant our young Enamourato's Thoughts were elevated beyond the Power of expression.  
The Wether in those Climates is violent hot, especially that part of the Day, when the Sun is in the Centre of the Zodiac; which so suffocates the Inhabitants, that they are willing to close with all advantages, that can render a Refreshment to their drooping Vitals: The same Motive induced this Charming Fair to receive the benefit of a soft still Wind, that whispered Content through all the lazy Air. She had a Slave, whom she was most secure in; but at this time she had dismissed her, that she might with greater freedom enjoy the liberty of sweet Contemplation: Love had been no stranger to her Heart, a Heart perhaps too apt to take the Impression; and what Person of the same Sex, that has ever experimented the least Power of that Triumphant Tyrant, but must acknowledge, that altho' to feed their fancy, and divert their melancholy hours; they may admit of a Confident, to treat with all advantage on the Object of their thoughts; yet there are some Transports of Satisfaction, that cannot be contained under any limit, but breaks out into Raptures; which when vanished, dejected and surprised they even blame themselves for being an Eye-witness.  
This place was all Retirement, secret and secure; none durst approach except the Duke, at some appointed hours, wherein she never failed to entertain herself with all the privacy and freedom her Heart could wish: At this time her Soul, wrapped in sublimer Meditations, had took its flight above all thought, and left the Body wholly bereft of sense or motion; a profound Sleep sealed her Eyes, and she appeared as divinely charming to the ravished Melantius, as the virtuous and excellent Lucretia did, exposed a Victim to her audacious Roman Lover: A sacred Silence seemed to reign there, which secured her from all fears of Interruption, as in a Cave forsaken by wild Beasts-in a Desert.  
The ingenious contrivance of this Arbour rendered such satisfaction to the sight, that it unresistably alured the Beholders to a solitary retreat; it consisted of four delicate little square Beds of green Turf, on the farthest of which, lay this Amazing Beauty; her Head declining to the right side, supported by a Hand, that seemed to be formed of polished Alabaster, her Hair hanging carelessly moved at the discretion of a gentle Wind, the colour fair, compared to Cynthya's Silver Tresses; she had on a pair of embroidered Bodice, her Bosom half open, with a large white Damask-Scarf wrought with Gold, which falling off her Shoulders, had circled in her Knees, and likewise hide the other Arm, her Breast whiter than Snow, but of a warmer Constitution, wrought wonderful effects in a young tender Heart resolved to love: The discovery of all these Charms, the powerful clearness of her delicate Complexion, was capable to make him surrender upon the first Assault.  
You must imagine the unavoidable rustling that he made, soon expiated the drowsy God, who gently slipped his Chain, and gave his Captive leave to open her bright Eyes; then with a Face more serene and lovely than Aurora, she confirmed the languishing Expectation of her Amorous Lover; tho' the sudden confusion that seized every Faculty, at the approach of a Man, and a Stranger, dispersed a pleasing Blush throughout her Cheeks, and gave a ravishing lustre to her sparkling Eyes, which were blue, and full of Life. With what new fire this kindled him is unaccountable; for never was Lover at the height of his Wish, struck with a more acute Passion, than he was sensible of the first Minute; Fear, Pleasure, and a resenting Pity filled his Mind, to see her so severely astonished, that sometimes her Face with Shame was glowing red, then straight with Anger it grew pale.  
Forgive me, Madam, (said he, with an Air full of concern) by unadvised steps, (tho' I must own 'twas not without design) I have encroached upon your Privileges; charmed with ten thousand Beauties, insensibly I did resort to this Retirement. Sir, (replied Aspasia, who had a little recovered herself) I pray, no more; call not more Blushes to my Cheeks; but if you will restore my Peace, retire, and leave me to my innocent Retreat. Melantius, who could not brook this Command, with eager Transport threw himself at her Feet, then blessed his happy Genius which had been his Guide, and conveyed him to the Shrine of Chaste Diana, where he would offer up his pure Devotion.  
While thus he spoke, she surveyed him round, viewed and reviewed his Noble Mien, observed his Speech, his Air, his Person, in all which discovered Worlds of Pleasure. He was of a middle stature, well shaped, the features of his Face were regular, black-eyed, and languishing; his Hair was of a bright Ash colour, which was very long, and lay in folding Curls all o'er his Shoulders.  
With strange amazement, and transported thoughts, they did for a great while stand and gaze on one another. Then, than the little envious God of Love did clap his Wings, and rejoiced at the approaching Fate of these unhappy Lovers; but soon this pleasing Ecstasy was diverted by Aspasia, whose Modesty recalled her surprised Spirits; then casting down her Eyes which were filled with Shame, she blamed her most imprudent Curiosity, when she beheld Melantius Prostrate at her Feet, with Eyes that spoke too open and intelligibly the Circumstances of his Heart; yet forced a Smile to say, Indeed you are too obsequious, too lavish of your Praise; and give me leave to impute these Favours, to that common face of Gallantry, that generally attends your Sex, rather than to your solid Judgement.  
By this time the Duke had recovered the Arbour; where he was surprised to find Melantius in a close Conversation with his Daughter, who appeared in great confusion; the Duke blamed his own Imprudence, in leading him that way, and as he entered the Arbour, excused himself, by telling her the agreeable Entertainment of that young Lord's Conversation, had wholly taken up his Consideration; therefore to compence for having interrupted her accustomed Retreat, (which he attributed altogether to himself) they would leave her to her freedom; and seeing Laura the Slave of fair Aspasia appear, the Duke thought fit to retire.  
This sudden motion was something perplexing to Melantius, who could not departed without a great Regret, which he signified by his Looks, which were all Remorse. Immediately Aspasia withdrew to her Apartment, where, as soon as she entered, she threw herself carelessly on a Couch, and there sat very dull and pensive; Laura imagining it no other, but some little concern for the disorder she was surprised with in the Garden; approached her with a pleasing Look: Come, Madam, (said she) banish this trifling Sorrow, here is that will make you soon assume your usual Gaiety; a Letter from the Count Octavio, Madam. From Octavio! (said she, starting in a little disorder) Give it me. But what means my foreboding Heart? Can any thing from that brave Man displease me? And yet I feel an unusual Shivering over all my Limbs, as some dire Omen of a future Misfortune! She took the Letter with her trembling Hands, and having opened it, she Read as follows.  
OCTAVIO to ASPASIA.  
YOU see (dear Madam) how much I am yours, when even the Commands of my Prince, cannot detain me in Italy; nor the Threats of a Father induce me to Marry a Lady, whose Beauty has no Superior but fair Aspasia ' s. I am the same constant Man, as when I left you, and only live to Adore you. What will my Fate produce? Cannot all my Sufferings, and the Sincerity wherewith I serve you, render me the most passionate of Lovers? Nor is it possible to reconcile the Duke, your Father, to a Stranger? Yet this is less my Care, then how I stand in the favourable Sentiments of the only Person I live by. I am now at Porto with all the Privacy imaginable, till I know with what Encouragement I may come to Lisbon. I shall wait with much impatience, to see the Characters of that fair Hand, from whom depends, the Life, Fortune, and Felicity of,  
Madam, Your Unchangeable Octavio.  
During the perusal of this Letter, the Commotions of her Mind was visible in her Face; and having concluded it, she fetched a deep sigh, and returned to her pensive posture. After some time lifting up her troubled Eyes, she cried, Ah! Laura, did I Love Octavio? Laura smiled at the oddness of the Question, and made no Answer; whilst she continued; Was I not obliged in honour to make some return to him I own my Life to? Nay more, the Life of him that gave me mine. But say I did advance too fast, too tenderly, forgive my Indiscretion, it was no more than Gratitude did prompt me to: But why these scruplous Thoughts? Am I not the same Aspasia, young, f●ee, and disengaged? No, no, but he is still the Brave the Generous Octavio; and must not, cannot, will not be imposed upon.  
Tormented with a thousand different Thoughts, she passed the residue of the Day till Bedtime. Laura wondering much from whence this should proceed, (tho' it required no penetrating Eye to descry a deep impression of the Lovely Stranger stamped upon her Bosom) had used the most prevalent of her Arguments, to dissuade her from that melancholy Humour: But alas! 'twas all in vain; she retired to her Bed, where her Pillow was the only Confident to the Agitati●● she suffered that Night; which was spent with much more satisfactory Reflections by Melantius, who encountered no other Ideas but those of Love and Ecstasy; he was transported with the many Charms he found in the beautiful Aspasia. He fancied her his own, not dreaming of any Obstacle that could oppose it; he considered the Equality of their Birth and Fortune, the Conveniency of the Match; and indulged himself with all the transporting and delightful Raptures that proceed from thought.  
The next day was that great Solemnity, wherewith Alphonso Henery entertained his new Queen Beatrice, Daughter to Alphonso the Tenth, King of Castille; by whom that Noble Dowry, the Kingdom of Algaroes', was added to the Crown of Portugal. All the Nobility was there present to pay their Devoirs to the Queen. In particular, the illustrious Families of Almeyda, and that of the Marquis de Leganes, who was Father to our Cavalier Melantius. The Celebration of these Nuptials, would be too tedious to recite; let it suffice, never was any thing more glorious, where Melantius made the most considerable Figure of the Beaux Esprits, and Aspasia of the Bells.  
The general approbation they received, did not a little contribute to augment the favourable Sentiments they had entertained for one another. And at the Tournament, when Aspasia beheld her young Hero enter the Lift, (with an Aspect that foretold the Miracles he performed) it was easy to read her Wishes in her Eyes, which were constantly fixed upon him, and seemed to move in the same Sphere with the Vicissitudes of his Fortune. But oh! how her Heart danced when he came of Conqueror; the Air refounded with 10 Paeans to the Victor, and echoing Triumphs filled the breath of Fame; but his proudest Trophy was the Congratulation he received from the fair Aspasia; and without doubt, he was Gallant enough to attribute his good Fortune to the influence of her Eyes.  
After some short Preliminaries, these Diversions broke up, to entertain the Ladies with a splendid Ball; and it was there Melantius determined to make an Offering of his panting Heart to the Deity he Worshipped: His kind Stars soon blessed him with a lucky Opportunity; for Aspasia being somewhat overheated with Dancing, was in motion with her Fan, which by chance she let fall. Melantius was the fortunate Person that took it up, and delivering it with a profound Bow, in a soft dying Tone; he said, Ah! Madam, could you as easily restore my Heart, which I just now resigned an Offering at your Feet. She smiled at the pretty Gallantry, and replied, I never retain any thing I cannot pretend a Property in; and would have declined a farther Discourse: But he continued, That is as your Cruelty or Justice will determine: This I can affirm, it is no longer mine; and if your Severity will not think it worth your Charitable Protection, you shall behold it the most wretched Victim in the World. He waited for no answer, but taking hold of one corner of her Handkerchief, which he dexterously conveyed into his own Hands: 'Tis but reasonable, Madam, (said he) to afford me some small Relic, to guard that Breach, which otherwise you expose to the greatest danger imaginable. Although this did something displease her, it was impossible to retrieve it, without a public view; therefore not offering at a recovery, she suffered him to carry it off, tho' not without a great Resentment, which appeared in her angry Brow. Melantius, who was sensible of his fault, engaged with the rest of the Company, and appeared no more that Night before Aspasia, but as a Criminal; only she had the secret satisfaction of often seeing the Handkerchief displayed to his Lips, and there most religiously saluted. The Departure of the King and Queen, put a period to that Days Entertainment; and all the Company retired well disposed to sleep; nor did a thought molest Aspasia, who enjoyed a sweet Recruit for the last Night's Tribulation.  
Phoebus' had already mounted the Olympic Palace, and made a considerable Progress in his Day's Circuit, when our lovely Fair awaked, and called Laura to inquire how the Day had passed: After she received satisfaction to some such frivolous Questions, Laura presents her with a Billetdoux, which she had just received from a Page of Melantius, who still waited for an Answer: She took it with a panic fear, in hope and doubt, to find what it contained; but who can tell her private Transport, when she read what follows.  
MELANTIUS to ASPASIA.  
IF an Offender may have leave to plead for Mercy, have pity on a true Penitent. My Crime may be too Enormous to expect a Pardon; but I am sure my Contrition is of as large a size. You have already sufficiently punished me, and that cruel Frown at parting stabbed deep into my Heart; nor could Poison, Daggers, or a thousand Deaths be half so terrible. Let it suffice, I only live to receive my Sentence from those dear Lips that can give Life even in the pronouncing of my Death. My Life and Happiness are absolutely in your power; and if to Love with the most sensible Tenderness imaginable, can offend; to Die, would be but the least part of my Duty: But if a Restoration of my petty Theft can any way contribute to a Pardon, permit me this Afternoon to lay at your Feet both That and your Adoring Slave,  
Melantius.  
This passionate Declaration was so far from displeasing, that it filled her with a Torrent of Joy, to find a Man so entirely at her Dispose, whom Fate had already destined her to Love; to deny his Visit, was to rack her own Inclination, and to permit it too easily, would make the Conquest too cheap; however, this Contest did not long last, the  God bore sway, and she returned this Answer.  
ASPASIA to MELANTIUS.  
I Am Confirmed, that in all points Melantius is the most Gallant of Men; and where he offends, he makes but too sufficient Reparation: I can forgive without these Insinuations you use to bribe a Pardon; but shall expect with the Return of my Handkerchief, you desist a Suit too inglorious for a Hero.  
Aspasia.  
Having dispatched the Page, she began to reflect how barbarously she used Octavio in the mean time; but who can resist the powerful influence of that little Tyrant, who models us after his own Chimeras? well may he be represented blind, not only for the inequality of Persons that he wounds, but whoever is possessed of the same Malady, runs violently on, pursues the Object of their Affections, adheres to nothing but Almighty Love, and cannot see an Error.  
Well, she is resolved to let Octavio stay a little for an Answer, being in some perplexity what to write to him; she banished all troublesome Thoughts, and wholly dedicated that Day to Melantius, who came dressed with all the Gaiety of a young Bridegroom; entered the Room, with ten thousand Graces, and passionately flings himself at her Feet; and having stole her Hand, he gently raised it to his trembling Lips, and stamped the Image of his Soul upon it. Aspasia, who simpathized too feelingly with this Ecstasy, was the first that by good fortune recovered herself; and being obliged to take some notice, My Lord, (said she) this is far from concurring with the Capitulations I proposed. Oh! name them not; (said he) forbidden the Sun to shine, stop the bright Charioteer of Heaven in his full Career, root up the Earth from its Centre, but never, never bid me cease to Love; all these are more possible to be done, than not to Love the Adorable Aspasia.  
She already felt a Commiseration too sensible to withstand, but her unlucky Sex obliges her to act that hard Part, to appease the dearest of her Wishes: she wore the Mask, and most severely reprimanded him, conjured him not to pursue so extravagant a Raillery; or if it were sincere, to avoid so fruitless an Amour: In short, she played the Tyrant, and insulted over a Heart, whose utmost Faculty was to serve her; but Melantius could not yield to Despair, at every little repulse, and resolved not to quit the Siege: He left her not that Evening, till he had brought her to a more gentle Humour; after that, not a Day passed wherein he failed to sigh and plead. This tender Application engaged her to show him indifferent Favours, till at last Time and Assiduity prevailed, and sighing, dying, she confessed she Loved. It was then his Joy was without bounds, exalted above a common Transport, he was impatient for a Consummation, and every Minute of delay was insupportable; he informed the Marquis de Leganes, that now he was ready to make a Resignation of himself to the fair Aspasia, and only waited his Proposals to the Duke her Father. The Marquis was extremely well pleased at his Son's resolution to Marry, commended his Choice, applauded his Prudence, and without farther demurs, he order his Coach to be ready, and away to the Duke de Almydas, whom he had the fortune to find at home: Before they parted, occasion presented to promote the Unity of their Families: The Duke returned the Marquis all the Civility in the World; and tho' he did not absolutely determine, he desired time to consider, which was more out of Ceremony, than any doubt or scruple; he knew the conveniency of the Alliance, and after pretensions of mature Consideration, two or three Visits brought it to a conclusion.  
Next there was a most glorious Preparation for their Nuptials; in the mean time Melantius had free egress and regress to the Author of his Bliss, where the blessed Hours were spent in gazing, wishing, and a thousand Toys that Lovers affect to please themselves, till the happier Minutes may be improved.  
Who would not conclude him now the happiest of all Men, just ready to launch into a Sea of Pleasure, within reach of the wished for Haven, and not able to touch the Shore. Fate so ordered it that the Marchioness de Leganes was taken violently ill, and in three or four days died: This put a stop to a farther proceeding, in the Hymenaean Ceremonies, till a long Obsequies was celebrated to the Dead.  
'Tis impossible to tell how much Melantius suffered at this time, not only for the loss of so dear a Parent, but at the delay of so many Joys; which without doubt would have been a kind Ingredient, and have helped down the bitter Pill of Affliction, with less regret; there's no Life, no support for him, whilst absent from Aspasia: But the Circumstance of his Affairs forbidding his stay, the better to bear this parting, he begs her Picture, which she grants, but at the same time entreats for his: This was his constant Companion in all Adventures, never from his Bosom, slept and conversed with him, mitigated his Misfortunes and increased his Joys; and so strong was his Imagination, that he fancied it bore part in all his Change of Fortune.  
The time was now come, that the Marchioness was conveyed to Porto, there to be Interred, in a Tomb belonging to their Ancestors. Whilst these Rites were performing, Melantius, to give vent to the excess of Sorrow that oppressed him, walked out one Evening on the Banks of Duero, whose pleasant Streams runs by the Walls of Porto; and moving on with a soft easy pace, silently entertaining himself with Contemplation of his future Fate, was roused from the Abyss of Thought he was lost in, by a Sigh that seemed to pierce the Air; this made him curious to discover what Person it was that gave such evident tokens of Distress: He had not gone far before he discovered a Cavalier, who lay upon the Grass, with his Face towards the River; he appeared to be very tall, and his Hair black; he had a Letter in his Hand, which having read, he fling his Arm down with a little force, and cried, Where must we seek for Virtue? Is there such a thing in being? Or, is it but a Notion? 'Tis evident it's not to be found within this Globe of Earth, if it can fail in Cruel Fair Aspasia. These words were very much surprising to Melantius, who heard one sighing, and as he hoped for another Aspasia, he was a true Lover, and did not want for a thousand perplexing Fears and Doubts, at the Name of his Mistress, yet were they not so violent as to disturb his attention to the Cavalier who thus went on: All things in Nature look so hush and calm, and not a breath of wind disturbs the gentle Air, throughout the Horizon is all serene, nor do these dewy Sheets one wrinkle wear; and yet the Perturbations of my Breast, are able to affect the World around me: Have I not se●t, implored, and wished in vain? And am I now grown so Contemptible not to deserve an Answer? Oh! Where are all those pitying Looks and Glances, that used to wound Octavio with delight? Was my Hopes exalted to that height, to make my Fall mo●e desperate, and upbraid me with too great Presumption? These Characters! These dear Characters! can Witness I was not once indifferent to her. Support me, feeble Limbs, once more to Lisbon, and I'll discharge you ever from a future Service.  
The naming of Lisbon, gave a fresh Alarm to Melantius, and had like to have delivered him up to as much Desperation as the other: He was fixing direful Thoughts, when he perceived the Cavalier to rise and come forward, which obliged him to retire some distance, till he saw the way he would take, being resolved to tract him, and if possible, to find out the Mystery of his Trouble; with that design he suffered him to advance to the utmost limit of his sight; who returned the same way that Melantius came, with his Arms folded, and his Eyes fixed upon the Earth. In this posture he had not gone far, before he discerned something on the ground which cast a resplendent light, that showed it to be of considerable value; and having taken it up, it appeared an Ebbony-Case inlaid with Gold, and set round with Diamonds; the outside Glories were inferior to what he found within, and it requires a more Polite Pen to display the Wonder, Ecstasy and Jealousy, that possessed his mind, to find the lively Protraicture of Aspasia painted there. Great Gods! (said he) Where will my various Fortune end? Am I beholden to ye for this Present, or is it lost by my more happy Rival? Perhaps Aspasia may be near this place, and by some lucky Accident have dropped it: But Oh! that hope is vanished be it is conceived; Octavio dare not think she who could suffer him to Languish these two Months, without the least of a relenting Pity, could be induced to set a foot near Porto, whilst it contained her much contemned Admirer: Yet, whatever Chance has sent thee, thou art welcome. Aspasia may be Cruel to the highest degree, but you are innocent, and no Ingrate; you smile, and please me with a thousand Graces; and should I lay you near my panting Heart, you would no way resist, but yield, and there receive warmth from my raging fire: Nay, should I ravish here ten thousand Kisses, they were all my own, without the least repulse: Why then, dear Flatterer, we will never part, but cheat my childish Hope with these Delusions.  
He was seated under a Tree, pleasing himself with abundance of such wild Discourses. When Melantius miss his Picture, he returned with all the Concern in the World, to the place where he discovered the Cavalier; and having searched diligently, and not finding it, his fears suggests to him a thousand Doubts: Sometimes he fancies that he had dropped it as he came, and probably 'tis found by some poor Peasant; who, tempted with the Treasure, would conceal it, from all possible means of regaining: Then he imagines it in the hands of the Cavalier, whom by this time he had lost sight of, and knows not where to find: This made him redouble his Pace, and with all the speed he could, endeavour to recover the Town before he was Housed; yet not so expeditiously as to hinder him from a slight search as he passed. Being thus employed, and his thoughts wholly fixed on his Loss, he was startled at the unexpected sight of the Cavalier, who still lay under the Tree, adoring the lovely Picture of Aspasia. Melantius' filled with Joy to have found it, yet Jealousy and Spleen to see it there, went up to him; and with a hasty Voice demanded the Piece. But the Cavalier drowned in his thoughts, answers to some former Ejaculations of his own; The Gods shall never retrieve thee. This rude reply, (as Melantius apprehended it to be) so enraged him, that without any more words he had recourse to his Sword; bidding the Cavalier (if he dared) rise, and defend it; who being recovered from his waking Dream by this fierce Attack, tho' not knowing the reason, yet seeing there was no time for Parley, he Drew in his own Defence; at first only parrying to avoid the Passes that were made at him, but finding his Enemy too resolute to be played with, he was forced to endeavour his Dispatch, to secure his own Life.  
This rencontre was maintained with equal Fortune for some time, by these Combatants, till Melantius feeling himself bleed in the right Arm, renewed his force; Shame and Anger made him desperate; so that by a thrust under the left Pap, he had the advantage to see the Cavalier fall; but Melantius (who was in all points truly Noble and Generous, ran to his Assistance, deplored his Fate, begged his Pardon, and blamed him for being so refractory. The Cavalier had neither Sense, nor Strength to listen to his many relenting, tho' ineffectual Expressions, yet perceiving him willing to serve him, with broken Sentences and Signs, he desired to be carried to a little Cott within a stones throw, which stood alone and obscure at the foot of a Hill. Melantius having descried the place, was in distress how to convey him thither; when he beheld an old Man driving up the Hill a few poor Goats; he called to him, and desired his help, he was very ready to assist, and withal told him, what his humble Roof could afford, was at their Command; but he feared it had nothing to recommend it but Retirement, being three Miles off the City, poorly furnished, and ill provided. Melantius thanked him for his feasonable Relief, and returned to the place where he had left the Cavalier just expiring. When the old Man drew near to discern the Face of this Unfortunate, he burst into a shower of Tears; and cried, Ah! poor Don Pedro; What Cruel Hand has destroyed the best of Men? Now may these Shades be cursed, whose dear delightful Retreat has betrayed thee, like a Siren, to thy utter ruin: Did I this Morning leave thee fresh and well, to bring thee home a dead and helpless Corpse? Oh! had I never known thy Virtues, I had never miss thee.  
His grief spoke a sensible sorrow, but considering a speedy help was required, Melantius interrupted him to bear the Cavalier to the House, where they laid him on a Bed, and covered up his Wound close from the Air; Melantius likewise bound up his own Arm, and the old Man called a Lad, whom they sent to the Town to bring a Chirurgeon with all speed and privacy; in the mean time careful not to disturb the wounded Cavalier, who had little other sign of Life than a troubled breathing; they retire to the Door of the Hutt, where Melantius enquired of the old Man what he knew concerning him, he was nothing scrupulous to declare his acquaintance of him, and thus began.  
Sir, (said he) I have lived upon this spot these fourscore years, never in plenty, nor never did I want; by Trade a Fisherman, my Family once large, which I maintained by my daily Labour, till the Supreme Powers were pleased to reduce it to the poor Lad you have seen, who is my Grandchild; he is now about fifteen years of Age, him have I brought up to the same Slavery, being in no Capacity to do better for him; we live alone, and eat what we earn with sweet content. One-Evening, as we were fishing, two Leagues from this place, was the first time we saw this Don Pedro, sitting at the foot of a Rock melancholy, and sighing to the Winds; but he took no notice of us that time, nor several times after, when we have found him in the same place, sometimes reading, sometimes complaining at his hard Fate; one Day he seemed diverted with our Sport, and desired to Board us; we put to Shore and took him in, and he continued with us till towards Night, enquiring of my Life, my Family, my Abode, in all which he was particularly pleased at my unambitious Mind, and free Content; he told me I was Rich and Happy because I coveted no more. For that Night we parted, and having liberally rewarded us, he returned from whence he came, but bid us not fail to meet him the next Day, having promised to visit our homely Habitation: We fetched him punctually at the appointed place, and brought him to this Rustic Shore, where he was so taken with the Retirement, and innocent Life, being a Nursery to his Grief, that he could not part from us; but this mean Room (he now lies in) was his Lodging, being the best we have. Six Weeks has he been here, in which time his Diversion was to Walk alone, early and late, sometimes he would Fish with us, he fared as we did; all I could learn relating to himself, or Country, is, that his Name is Pedro, a Spaniard Born; he was very inquisitive after Letters, and sent the Boy every Night to Porto to inquire.  
By this time the Chirurgeon was come, whom Melantius bribed to Secrecy; having probed the Wound of the Cavalier, they were greatly encouraged to find it not mortal; but his excessive bleeding had already reduced him so low, he could not speak, but fainted several times in their Arms. Melantius (tho' he did not want for Jealousy that this was his Rival) yet considered his Misfortune with much trouble, he stayed till he was Dressed, and after applying something to his own Arm, and leaving a Charge to the old Man to be careful of him, he returned with the Chirurgeon to Porto, promising to be with them early the next Morning. After a short Devoir paid to the Marquis de Leganez, he retired to his Bed, to Contemplate on the Days Adventure, and altho' his Malady required rest, his distracted thoughts could not permit of any respite, but flew more swift than the fleeting Minutes; he was impatient for the Day, that he might again visit the wounded Cavalier, who (he hoped) would be in a Condition to relate some part of his Life, at least tell him, why he would not part with the Picture but by Compulsion.  
Scarce had the pale-faced Empress of the Night, drawn her Sable Curtains, but Melantius was up, and arrived at the poor Mansion; just as bright Sol had tipped the top of Olympius with his golden Beams, having before taken care all Necessaries should be brought; the Cavalier, whom he found something revived by a little Sleep he had gotten, and both able to look up and speak. Melantius' enquired of his Health, withal signifying some Joy for this small Amendment, but an undissembled Concern for his Misfortune. The Cavalier was amazed at this great Civility, from a Person he imagined had used him the most unreasonable of all Men. Sir, (said he, in a weak faint voice) how much I receive from you now, can only be repaid by a bare acknowledgement, and I must attribute this Favour altogether to your Generosity, being as much at a loss for any Merit of mine to deserve it, as I am at our late Quarrel. Melantius as much puzzled at these Expressions, was apt to believe a Fevor had seized his Head, but considering 'em spoke with an Air that shown a great Moderation, and peculiar Grace, he was obliged to answer in this manner. Nothing could have provoked my Sword against a Person of your Worth, but the refusing to restore this Picture, which is my only present Felicity. The Cavalier assured him he did not hear it demanded. But, Sir, (said he) dare you so far trust my Fidelity, to inform me whose it is, and how it became yours? Melantius very willingly replied; It is a Lady's, whose Fame is not confined to the scanty limits of one Kingdom, but universally admired: She is the Daughter to the Duke de Almeyda; and were it not for the Jilting Tricks of Fortune, I should now style her my Wife; her own Hand recommended it to me, when the Death of the Marchioness de Leganes (from whom I received my being) put a stop to our Marriage, which should have been Consummated within a Week.  
The Cavalier, whose Attention was interrupted with a Torrent of Sighs, at this last Accent of Melantius, resigned his Life, or at least it appeared so, when all th● industry that was used could not recall his Spirits; but just when they discovered some glimmering Hopes, his Soul shrank back as in the Abhorrance of the World; but the assistance of the Chirurgeon, who was now come, was so effectual, that no longer could the impulse of his anxious Trouble repel his Art, but in spite of himself, was his Life thrust back, to die ten thousand Deaths: With the first breath he recovered, he exclaimed against the Cruel Fair, and blames Heaven for making her the brightest of her Sex, without dispersing their Divinest Attributes upon her. Oh! Why! (said he) Why was she created so Divinely Glorious? (That Gods themselves would have been proud to have lain at her Feet, adoring Captives) and not be blessed with unblemished and unshaken Virtue? Is the●e no Bolt of Hea●en that st●●kes with Fate, but must it light on miserable Octavio? Ah! false Ingrate, now triumph in thy Injures, and with thy insulting scorn crush thy loathed Victim lower than the Grave.  
Every word he spoke, was like Darts to Melantius, and almost pierced him through; nor was his staggering Thoughts longer in dispute, if this was his Rival: Alas! he was too terribly convinced; yet being nearly concerned to have a more ample satisfaction, which he could not learn from this confused Discourse; he had so much command of himself, as to endeavour to moderate the excess of his Passion, and recall his Peace: But few things are of sufficient power to persuade a despairing Man into Reason; he looks upon himself as the lowest and vilest Insect; miserable, despised, and ruined; nay, lost in a Mist of wild Horrors. In this rage he continues to curse the malice of his Stars, sometimes pouring out Execrations on himself, for being too unworthy to possess so Divine Treasures. Then again charging her with being False, Cruel, Inhuman and Unjust. Now (said he) if this Soul dare remain in this desolate Body, who can be more wretched? But I will never fall so low, and abject: Nor can I bear, (even tho' her Charms are by her falsehood almost lost;) that another should ravish them from me. But will the Gods permit such things to prosper? On whom we Mortals do rely for Justice. No endeavour they could use, could bring him into a calmer Humour, or engage him to suffer his Wound to be dressed; he still opposed it, and tore the Plasters off as they were applied. Melantius' alleged, That probably there might be a mistake. Are you sure (said he) this is the same Aspasia? If you knew this Hand, (he replied) which I believe you are no Stranger to, your Doubts are evidently resolved. With that he delivered him a Letter, in which there was such tender Expressions, that could proceed from nothing but Love: As he read, every Letter grated his Soul, to find such considerable Favours lavished on another. Oh! Poor Melantius; (said he, sighing to himself) thou hast but blown up the Embers, in the absence of this Cavalier; for 'tis impossible such substantial Love, could vanish with a flash; even when he was within reach of enjoying all that his Soul could wish for. But why should I complain? Is it not for me, she foregoes all these Engagements? If it is a Frailty, 'tis to make me happy? But how am I sure she doth not yet retain some Inclination, for the once loved Octavio? Who by one melting glance, may perhaps kindle afresh her expiring Flame. How may I believe that a Heart which could once play false, should constant prove to me? What Charms has poor Melantius to secure it? Only Excess of Love. Notwithstanding these uneasy Thoughts, he resolves to see her suddenly; and if her Plea convinced him of her Innocence, she should from him receive an everlasting faithful Love. Yet this ungenerous Proceeding with Octavio, shocked his tenderest Sentiments; and were he not already the most amorous of Men, he had declined a Beauty that could be guilty of such pitiful Conduct: He was throughly convinced how much the Cavalier might have hoped for; yet considering himself the happy Man, he reflects on it with Partiality. After much entreaty they prevailed with him to be dressed, and finding him inclinable to repose, (which was but a feigned show, that he might have the melancholy liberty of his own Thoughts) they left him.  
Melantius returning to Porto, in his way met the Boy with a Letter directed to Don Pedro, and knowing the Hand to be Aspatia's, who could blame his Curiosity, in this juncture of Affairs for opening it? She had been in a Sea of Troubles and Fears in his Absence, considering what would be the event of Octavio's Passion, should she not answer his Letter: She knew he could not long be a Stranger to her Amours with Melantius, and therefore she thought cunningly to palliate the Story to him herself; with this design she had framed, (with all the Subtlety and Craft that could be invented) a way to break to him the dreadful Secret; and in order to that, had thus writ.  
ASPASIA to OCTAVIO.  
THink me not Ungrateful, when I send the Generous Octavio, the best of Wishes. Oh! how unaccountable are the Circumstances of our Lives and Passions? Let it suffice, 'tis you, and only you, can make my future Days happy, or miserable: I have Wonders to tell you, and beg that speedily you come to Lisbon. Laura shall meet you, at the usual Rendezvous, and conduct you to the lost and confused  
Aspasia.  
This indeed new modelled his Resolutions; and instead of seeing her, his design is now wholly to abandon her, having discovered (as he thinks) a sufficient Demonstration of her Falseness; Rage and Resentment, filled his Soul: Am I at last (said he) abused and forlorn? No, false One, you may triumph, but never shall insult over the wronged Melantius; for from this Minute, I will shun thy false deluding Charms.  
Thus fully determined, he goes home; no rest could he take, various were his thoughts, and as various his Resolutions; yet all determined in that point, of never seeing more the Fair Deceiver. How to dispose of himself he was not long at a stand, when he reflected that all Italy was in Arms, and that the Dispute betwixt the Pittis', and that Complete Hero and Champion for his Country, Lorenzo de Medici, the Tuscan-War that was then afoot, the Republic of Venice that was likewise engaged, would give him a glorious Diversion, from his perplexing Crosses, especially too since the Turks gave them new Fears, by menacing the remainder of those Islands, which they held in the Archipelago.  
Thus positively resolved, he writes a Letter to the Marquis de Leganes; in which he desired him not to be concerned, at his sudden Departure; since he had made a Vow to perform some Religious Duties, not only relating to himself, but for the good of his dead Mother's Soul; withal telling him the reason why he did not take his leave, as his Duty required, was fear of being opposed in that which nothing ought to avert; and in his absence, which he hoped would not be long, his Prayers should constantly be offered up for his Prosperity: Likewise, that he should go nigh to steer his first Course to our Lady of Loretto. This being prepared, he called a Servant whom he could trust, and having related to him his design, ordered him with speed and privacy to hire a Feleuqua at the nighest Port. Whilst his Man (whose Name was Montal) was thus employed: Melantius writes to Aspasia this Letter, and in it encloses hers, which he had intercepted going to Octavio.  
MELANTIUS to ASPASIA.  
YOU must pardon me (Madam) if I dare not encounter those dangerous Eyes once more to take my last Farewell; believe me, 'tis with great Regret I quit this Kingdom, and had Aspasia been true, not Empires heaped on Empires, could have tempted me to leave her. At the same time I must applaud your Generosity to the unhappy happy Octavio, who by a dire Mistake of Fortune, has suffered under my Hand, yet not so cruelly as by your Eyes: 'Tis time to abate the Tyranny you have used, and restore a Heart he once has been possessed of. If I have wronged him in intercepting this Billet, y ur Mercy which I am sure will not be wanting, can calm the raging Favour in his Blood. Yet to make a Reparation for my Fault, but more to gratify your dearest Wish, by my Absence you shall fear no Obstacle to molest your Tranquillity; and wherever I am, spite of myself, I am the lost confused Aspatia's  
Melantius.  
Soon after Montal returned with the News of a Merchant-Vessel that only waited the next fair Wind to hoist Sail for the straits, which they hourly expected. Melantius got all things in readiness, having contrived just as he Embarked, to send his two Letters forward. About the hour of Twelve, a Mariner came to give Montal warning, that the more speed they made the better. The Night shrouded with her gloomy Vall, and a fresh Breeze of Wind represented to Melantius (as he made to the Port) not the calmest Reflections; yet with a Noble Bravery that always attended him, he Embarked; where we will leave him on his Voyage, and relate what was done in the mean time at Home.  
Early the next Morning the Marquis de Leganes had his Letter, which extremely startled him, but being a Pious Man, and considering the consequence of the Business, he the easier dispensed with his Absence; and what made him the more credulous, was his Engagement with Aspasia, which he judged to be too dear a Tie, to quit upon a Whimsy: Thus with moderation did the Marquis bear the Absence of his Son, but for what poor unfortunate Aspasia suffered, (who knew too well the cr●●● cause) I dare not undertake here to display. Only the weight of her Misfortunes was of power to sink a World. A Deathlike Cold seized her Heart, her every Faculty lost their use at the News of his Flight. In this manner she continued for a long time, till her swelling Passion forced a vent; then how often did she blame her unhappy Conduct, raging and almost frantic, she delivered herself up to the extremity of an immoderate Sorrow: No Name was too hideous for such black Ingratitude, as she termed it, nor no Wish too hard or severe; at the same time forgetting her unkind usage to Octavio. There was not one Argument Laura omitted to restore her Peace, but to no purpose, her Reason was lost; she beheld herself fallen from the height of Bliss to the most abject Misfortune, and in her wild thoughts she saw the Man she loved, and hourly languished for, in another Country, pleasant, and diverting himself in Company with all the Ladies of Beauty, Wit, and Fortune, whilst she was slighted and abandoned by him, deserted, and foraken: How this racked the utmost faculty of her Soul? Oh! Melantius; Oh! Cruel Melantius, did she cry, How miserable? How wretched miserable have you made me? If I have been unjust, Heaven knows it is not to thee; then blame thyself, thy dear engaging Self, that has betrayed Aspasia to those base Characters of False, , and Vngenerous.  
This Passion continued so violent, that she found it impossible to appear before the Duke that Day, without exposing her Sentiments, having lost her Masterpiece of Dissimulation and Cunning, which by some is attributed as incident to the Sex, too sensible was her Affliction to bear disguise, and therefore to conceal it from the Duke, whom she knew would search too nicely into the dreadful Cause, she sent Laura to acquaint him she was indisposed, immediately retiring to her Bed, in expectation of a Visit, knowing him to be the most indulgent of Fathers: Not long after he came reading of a Letter he had just received, and having enquired and advised about her Health, This Letter comes (said he) from the Marquis de Leganes, wherein he acquaints me of a short Voyage his Son has taken to the Chapel of Loretto; but, I believe (continued he with a Smile) your Intelligence has been more speedy. At this second Confirmation and killing ungrateful News, she could hardly support herself, and as he pressed on to know if she had been before informed, she felt the greatest difficulty and pain to force but those words, I was.  
The Duke having some guess at the nature of her Malady, left her to gain some Repose, or rather to the freedom of her own Thoughts. No sooner had he quitted the Room but she called Laura to her, and with an easy Look, as if she had mastered some difficulty, spoke to her in this manner:  
Since I have confided in thee as to all the Circumstances of my Life, so must you now assist me in this last and most Desperate: I Love, and you are no Stranger to the Extremity of my Passion, my Life, my Honour, my Fame, are but false Idols to that Potent God: Tell me then, Can I live and not possess Melantius? That dear Melantius, whose Soul once moved with the same tender melting touch as mine. Oh! 'tis impossible; he thinks me False, Perfidious, or he had never left me: Shall I then live with this black Infamy, and not right myself? No, I will seek him to the utmost Verge of Earth, and there proclaim my Innocency; then if his Heart should prove impenetrable, and obdurate, my Death shall convince him of the direful Truth; and my wronged Ghost shall be ever before his Eyes, raving for Justice and Revenge, perplex his future Peace.  
Laura gave herself not trouble to dissuade her from this Exploit, believing it no other than a Chimaera she would never put in execution; But she found herself mistaken, it was what had taken deep root and fixed in her Resolution, she persisted in it daily, and then she failed not to lay before her the danger and hazard, but chief the false Constructions would be made of such an extravagant Action. Aspasia was deaf to all Advice, and only made answer, She would not be diverted from her Design, tho' she was forced to adventure alone. When Laura found her so fully determined, she assured her, nothing could have that face of difficulty, or terror, to make her decline her in the most desperate Attempt; but hoping her care in reminding her of what might prove to her Disadvantage, should not offend, she positively consents to obey her Commands.  
Thus satisfied with Laura's Compliance, the next Consultation was to get men's , the easier to disguise their Flight, and most commodious for their adventurous Travels. This Task was left to Laura, as likewise to hire a Vessel to Transport 'em to any Port in Italy, who performed very punctually all her Commands, and pretending a Visit to some Relations for two or three Days, by Aspatia's Connivance, she went directly to Setuval, a famous Haven about 20 Miles from Lisbon, where she secured a small Feleuqua for their purpose, and also placed Horses in the Road for their more speedy conveyance thither. The Wind sat fair every Hour she was there, which obliged her to make a quick return to Lisbon, to inform Aspasia, and assist her Flight.  
Night being the time for performing of such Projects, they waited wish great impatience and panic fears till it came, in the mean time providing good store of Gold and Jewels, the most portable and necessary Luggage, and being thus Knight-Errantly Equipped, they sallied out, and at two Miles Stage took Horse, and rid full speed to Setuval; they arrived there about four a Clock, was Embarked with the Courage of Heroines, and a fair way under Sail  they were miss at home. But yet too soon was the fatal News spread throughout all Portugal, for the Duke not seeing nor hearing from his Daughter the next Day, concluding her not well, went (as was his usual Custom) to her Apartment to visit her, but not finding her there, he was much surprised, and seeing a Note lie on the Table he took it up, which to his greater Wonder, he found subscribed to himself; wherein she acquainted him she had left the Kingdom, but had no way left to excuse her Flight, but that Almighty Love was the powerful Cause, whose Passions and Effects were ever unaccountable, and begged him, if he could, retain a thought of his own former Joys, he would be so Charitable to recollect them in her defence, and believe she left so good a Father, with the greatest violence imaginable; concluding with her Petition to indulge himself, and bear her Absence with moderation, and a charitable Opinion of her, giving him some hopes of a speedy return, which should compensate for all her imprudence: But alas! This was of little force or efficacy; for the immoderate Grief, Anguish, and Shame which possessed the Duke, (not only for the loss of a Child he had built his chief felicity on, but at the Dishonour of his Family, which could never be retrieved) was not with ease to be allayed: He considered her the Bloom of all Portugal, celebrated for her Beauty, and universally admired; but when he came to reflect what a Blot she had given all these Advantages, he could hardly support the Trouble. There was no Port throughout the Kingdom he failed to send to, with Orders to search all Transport-Ships; all diligence imaginable was used, but to no purpose; our Amazons were fled beyond recall, their Habits taking off all Suspicion.  
Being thus destitute of Comfort, he found himself not Philosopher sufficient, to bear with tranquillity, so great a Misfortune, especially in a place where he had all Eyes upon him, he therefore retired to a curious, tho' solitary Seat he had some twelve Miles from the Port of Villeneve, where he passed his Days recluse from the World, with great Devotion and Acts of Charity, only now and then a select Friend, in particular the Marquis de Leganes, who was herein greatly interested, a fit Companion to lament with him the unfortunate Conduct of both their Children: But what the more confounded the Marquis was, he lately had an account his Son was long since arrived at Leghorn, and after visiting some of those Holy Places he had promised, he had put himself in the Gens d'Arms of the Florentines, under Lorenzo de Medici; where he did those Wonders, I shall have no occasion to speak of here.  
But to return to Aspasia, whose Voyage for the best part was pleasant and prosperous, they apprehended themselves past all danger, being within ten Leagues or less of Leghorn, when a boisterous Storm arose, and so violent a Tempest, that it terrified the most daring Mariner; the Seas ran Mountains high, and the Heavens clattered out Peals of Thunder; and notwithstanding they were so nigh the Shore, they were again drove out to Sea; and finding the Storm grow louder and more dreadful, they cut their Mainmast by the Board, and strove to lay their Vessel at Hull, whilst all Hands were at work to furl their Sails, she sprang two Leaks, and it was with much ado, by the incredible labour and industry of the Seamen, who were continually plying the Pump, she was kept above Water.  
This was a sad discouragement to our Amazons, (whom, tho' I cannot affirm, wished themselves on their own Native Soil) yet none can blame them for being dismayed, when even the Tritons and Dolphins were amazed. This Tempest lasted full six Hours, all which time it seemed to threaten them with immediate Destruction, at length it began to clear up to Windward, the Wind abated, and in little time they made Land, tho' distant from the designed Shore. They wrought lustily for their Deliverance, and recovered a rocky and dangerous Haven, belonging to the State of Naples, called, Fuzzuelo. The Feleuqua had done its last Duty, in bringing them safe to Land, her Rudder being spent, and she so much disabled, she was incapable of further Service, and lay a dismal Memorandum of their past Danger with her Keel upward upon the Sands.  
With Joy they Landed, tho' feeble and faint, with little Nourishment, and hard Work, they in the Storm being forced to fling over Board most of their Provisions to lighten the Vessel. This was a place which obliged every one to shift for themselves; being none acquainted with the Country. There were few other Passengers than Aspasia, who now went by the Name of Don Lelio, and Laura by that of Carlo.  
Wildness, Wants, Barrenness, and innumerable Calamities were seated here, which dreadful appearance encouraged the Weatherbeaten and distressed Sailors, with Resolution to scale those desperate and stupendious Mountains, in pursuit of Food and Life; but this Achievement had too many Difficulties and Terrors to be attempted by Don Lelio, who was driven to that extremity, to beg when they had allayed their own Hunger, some one would be so Charitable to return with Relief, and assist them up that desperate Precipice, yet before they departed, to prevent any Outrage which might be offered, he distributed Gold largely amongst them, and assured them he had but a small parcel left for the supplying his own Necessities, the Quantity, and Freeness wherewith it was given, easily confirmed them in this belief, and there was not one but promised an Expeditious Return with the first Provisions they found. Thus did this Extravagant Passion reduce the Tender, Beautiful, and much to be pitied Don Lelio to all the Distress of Hunger and Cold; nay, exposed to a Multitude of other Dangers; yet nothing made so cruel an Impression as the Absence of Melantius. Her Heart was not so obdurate, as to bear such sensible afflictions without Tears, which were shed in abundance by them both, to see themselves left on a naked Rock, destitute of all comfort, and likely to become a Prey to some furious wild Beast: Thus loaden with fears and grief, they imparted their sad Thoughts one to the other, as they moved along the Shoar, and engaged in this lamentable Conversation, weeping their Fate, without design, or consideration, they had straggled about a Mile from the place where they first Landed, there they found an easy ascent up the Mountains, 'twas a Path that was levelled as much as those impregnable Rocks would permit, and appeared to be frequented; they were in great dispute, Whether they should make any Sally alone, not only for fear of the Dangers they might encourter; but for fear of missing those who had promised to bring them succour, at last they resolved to take a view of the Countries on the other side, and then to return to their appointed place, they fortified one another with Counsel, Courage and Comfort, and attained to the utmost height of the Clift, before they could think of descending, and to their great satisfaction, they found on that side an easy descent; they were likewise delighted with the pleasant Prospect of a lovely Champion Country stocked with curious Rivers, and fine Woods; this Prospect for some time took up their Consideration, and they had not yet determined what to do, when they heard the agreeable sound of soft Music in a Wood, at the Foot of that Rock; they were now in hopes they were not far from Inhabitants, and believed it the best prudence to seek for shelter there, rather than trust to poor famished Wretches, who perhaps were as far from Comfort as ever; they made no longer delay, but with speed descended, entered the pleasant Wood, and made up, as nigh as they could guests, to the harmonious found that they heard on the Rock; they had not gone far before they came under the Shade of a Noble Poplar, which spread his Branches over so large a Circumference, that it required admiration, as a curious piece of Nature; but what was more surprising to them, was to read on this Tree carved in great Characters on the Bark, Cruel Unkind Octavio. This Name had dreadful effects on Don Lelio, which made Carlo take pains to draw him from that place, lest it should have proved prejudicial to them both; yet before he would consent to departed, he wrote underneath it with the point of his Sword, Cruel Unkind Melantius. By this time the Music desisted, which put them to some trouble to find the way, but following a small Track they had discovered,  they were ware, they were entertained with the same Instrument again; and a Voice that was sweet, and so nigh that it surprised them.  
The Words that were Sung, were these.  

I.  
MVst I Love, and must I Languish,  
And ne'er hope to ease my Pain?  
Can I bear the bitter Anguish  
Of a slighted cold Disdain?  
Is the Darts then of no power  
For to wound this Dear Ingrate?  
Must I suffer every Hour,  
And be pitied when too late?   

II.  
Cruel God now change thy Fashion,  
Since we must thy Will obey;  
Give us both an equal Passion,  
Or both Flames do thou allay:  
Say Great Deity, Must never  
My soft Wishes have redress?  
Oh! How vain is all endeavour?  
Love can only Love express.   
They listened with great Attention, having at the same time the advantage of seeing the lovely Person, who delivered 'em in French, which both of them understood perfectly well; it being generally used by the Quality of most Nations: The Words were delivered with an Air all Passionate yet Serene; which Don Lelio had the satisfaction of observing without being discovered himself. The Youth appeared about the Age of Sixteen, Beautiful as Narcissus, Fair as the God of Love, his Eyes of the nicest black, had a gloss that out shined the Glories of the Day, and all his Features surprisingly perfect: He was dressed after the French Mode, gallant in all things: His Hair which was curiously fair, was tied up in a Scarlet Ribbon: He was seated under a Myrtle Tree, and had a Lute under his Arm which afforded them this delightful Harmony. Appearing in this posture, he exceeded all the Fictions that Poets attribute to Adonis.  
The Woods, the Groves, the pleasant murmuring noise of little Rivulets, and this amorous Song, gave Don Lelio a sweet Idea of Elysium; and it was no small comfort to him, that his Fortune had cast him on a Shoar where there were Lovers; he could not believe them a barbarous People, that were capable of so refined a Sentiment. The Verses were so composed, they gave no intelligence, Whether a Man or Woman was complained of, and the Habit being all that appeared Masculine in this Charming Youth, who had so much Goodness, Innocence and Sweetness in his Looks, that they apprehended no danger to encounter him: When the Song ended, they made up to the place where he was, who appeared in a great disorder at their approach, but they being willing to put an end to a Fright (that had spread an agreeable Blush throughout his Face) readily told their Distress, declaring they were Shipwrackt Persons, thrown by Fortune on that Coast, tho' distant from thence some Miles; the rest of their Company making their way over the dreadful Mountains, they only were left without hopes (unable to follow such desperate Attempts) till their wandering Steps had led them to that place, which had an Eye of Humanity in it. They humbly entreated him to inform them where they might hope for some Relief. Don Ariosto (so was this young Cavalier called) viewing the effeminate Delicacy of Don Lelio and his Comrade, had pretty well dissipated the Fears that had assaulted him, and being of a compassionate tender Disposition, was impatient to assist them; therefore with a quick return, he requires them to follow him, and to his utmost endeavour he would contribute to serve them, tho' he feared, the place could not produce any Accommodation worthy of such Persons; being acquainted with nothing but a poor  at the entrance of that Wood They gladly accepted the Favour, and full of grateful Acknowledgements, redoubled their Paces to this happy Retreat, which they found miserable poor to appearance, but 'twas no small Surprise to them when they entered, to see all things, tho' far from fine, curiously neat. The Inhabitants were, an Old Man, and an Old Woman, with one only Daughter, they received him with all the Joy in the World, and he appeared to have no small Authority there: Having first refreshed the Strangers, with wholesome Cordials, he led them into a Room, where there was a little Field Bed, and all things else necessary for a Cavalier, not to be expected in so mean a Mansion. He told them it had been his Abode a considerable time, finding more Content there, then in greater Splendour. He presented them  to shift themselves, retiring that they might have liberty, whilst he ordered a plentiful Supper; at which he had a Relation of all their Misfortunes at Sea. This Entertainment was comfortable and delightful, but broke up soon, that the weary Travellers might take Repose after their hard Sufferings. How terrible was the Compliment expected here from Don Lelio? For it was but reasonable he should Invite Don Ariosto to partake a Lodging in his own Bed, whilst the others opposing it, seemed a gentle Courtesy, taking up with Cloes Chamber, who for a shift was forced to lie at the Feet of her Old Parents.  
Our Adventurers spent some part of the Night in discoursing of their Deliverance, as also of the Youth, Beauty, and particular way of living of the Lovely Ariosto: And notwithstanding some Sleep they had got, Don Lelio found himself the next Morning in a violent Fever, unable to sustain so hard a Fatigue, which whilst his Body was in Agitation he was insensible of. This News was a great Affliction to Don Ariosto, who used all Endeavours to restore his Health, he watched by him Night and Day, and administered several things to him, having some knowledge in Physic, which Art he had for some time studied; but finding his Medicines and his Care ineffectual, he was infinitely concerned.  
Don Lelio continued desperately ill, even to the threatening of his Life; yet during all this Sickness, not one had the least Suspicion of his Sex; till one Day Carlo and he, whose constant Entertainment it was to condole their sad Destiny, had been seriously engaged in Discourse, when upon some occasion Carlo quitted the Room, without warning, and that so softly, he was not miss. Immediately enters Don Ariosto, and approached the Bed, but finding all silent, and the sick Cavalier's Head turned on the other side, concluding him asleep, was just retiring, but was stopped by his Voice, who believing he was still speaking to his faithful Carlo, thus went on: Ah! Laura, how imprudent will your poor Mistress be rendered, for leaving an indulgent Father, and all the Glories of this World, to bear this Hardship, and to pursue an unworthy false Ingrate, quit a Palace worthy of a King, to die here in a lonely Cott? But more, my dearest Laura, how terrible must Aspatia's Memory be to thee, when thou dost reflect, that by her wild Conduct thou wert lost, left on a Foreign Shoar destitute of Friends; whilst thy weak Sex not dole to contend with the lean Jaws of Famine, Cold and miserably Poor, perhaps some broken Crumbs for a Regalio, a Bed of Straw to rest on, thy Sleep disturbed with Fears, thy Days with Horror, till by this lingering Wretchedness you perish. Canst thou forgive me then? Oh never! never!  
This pitiful Complaint, not only filled Don Ariosto with Wonder, but with the most sensible Compassion imaginable, when Don Lelio who had desisted a while from speaking, and hearing no reply, turned his languishing Eyes, which were drowned in Tears to seek Carlo; but how full of confusion were those Eyes to see Don Ariosto at the Bedside? Fixed and  he lay, and seemed lost in concern for what he had uttered: For sometime Don Ariosto took pleasure to gaze on her pretty Disorder, whilst the other was tormented with a Multitude of Fears and Doubts; till Pity could no longer view such cruel Sufferings, he stepped up to her Bed, and with a Voice full of Amazement: Madam, (said he) for so I now may call you, since Chance has made me your accidental Confident; I here stand ready to confirm with the most sacred Vow, an everlasting Secrecy; for it would be more than barbarous in me, to insult where all Circumstances ought to oblige me to the tenderest Compassion; and therefore not to keep you longer in suspense, and to secure you from all Fears or Jealousies of me, know your Fortune has not played the most Jilting Game in casting you on this despicable Shoar; for this Habit (pointing to himself) conceals the same Sex. How incredible soever this appeared to Don Lelio at first, his sudden. Recovery from his present Confusion, and the new Life it seemed to inspire him with, showed how willing he was to believe it; whilst Don Ariosto thus continued: By what I have heard, Love has had a powerful Influence over you, which doubly engages me to serve you, for I blush not to own, I now suffer under the Extremity of that Passion. A great deal more he spoke to this purpose, giving convincing Proofs of what he said. Don Lelio conceived no Bounds to his Joy at this Confession; yet not being able to speak till a multitude of intruding Sighs had made way, it was visibly seen how timerously he entertained this happy Discovery; at last with a faint Voice, between Hope and Distrust he thus broke silence: With what Phrase may I term you? Pardon my Dispute, for I was ever difident of my own good Fortune, being almost enured to an unkind Destiny, but it would be no other than a Poor, and Vngenerous part in me, to Conceal any thing from a Person that so frankly has dispersed my Fears, by a kind and free Declaration. I have no scruple now to confess to you ingeniously, not only my Sex, but even all the Chances of my Life, when my Condition will permit, and you are at leisure to hear.  
As these words were delivering, Carlo entered the Room, in no small Surprise (as may be imagined) which was much more augmented to hear Don Lelio, call (in a free and unconcerned manner) by the Name of Laura, taking Don Ariosto by the Hand, and thus speaking: My poor Laura, how much am I bound to Heaven, that in mitigation of my deplorable Disasters, has raised me here the best of Friends, and one whose Sufferings strangely sympathise with mine. Fear not to embrace with the tenderest Affection this our Generous Protector, for the Charming Ariosto is a Woman.  
Wonder and Amazement crowded thick upon Carlo, to find so strange a Revolution in so short a space; but being confirmed by the Mouth of Don Ariosto all that had passed, she was overjoyed: with unspeakable satisfaction did these metamorphosed Fair Ones unite; and having spent some time in discoursing of small Occurrences of their Lives, they declined the principal Events to a more favourable opportunity, that the recital might not be troublesome or tedious to Don Lelio. For that night they parted infinitely pleased, and with such mutual Engagements of Friendship and Fidelity, that none could be greater or more substantial.  
From this moment Don Lelio recovered, so much doth the Satisfaction of the Mind contribute to the Health of the Body, in a short time he became perfectly well: But during his Sickness, which lasted Eight Months, you shall have an account of Melantius, whom we left in the Florentines Army.  
To tell, with advantage, the wonderful and glorious Exploits of that young Hero, would be too mighty a Subject to join with this Trifle; nor ought a less florid Pen than that of Homer, or Virgil, undertake so heroic a Task; therefore let it suffice, that after having performed beyond the Credulity of Man, it was his chance, during a Truce, to be sent with other Commanders, to recruit their Troops with Neapolitans, having Permission from the State. They arrived at Naples about the time of Don Lelio's recovery, and had marched through the remotest parts of that Republic, in quest of Men, which they imagined might hid themselves in those Mountains, to avoid a Service attended with too many Hazards. They were now within a league of that sacred Wood which harboured the lovely unfortunate Don Lelio. This place Melantius had already found out, where he often sought to calm and sweeten the Frenzy of his Mind, which was almost festered by Despair.  
One day he had retired hither, to seek a Sanctuary in the midst of Solitude; when striving to shake off his oppressing Fetters, he was convinced there was no evading the Sentence of the Deity, and therefore resigned himself up as Love's cruel Martyr, and not without a harsh Contest betwixt Love and Honour. This Debate held him till he arrived, all hopeless, at the foot of the Poplar (we spoke of) whose beauty and exceeding largeness took up his consideration some small time; but when he espied those two Sentences on the Bark, writ in different Characters, who can describe his Confusion! oppressed with a heavy weight of Fears, Doubts, and Jealousy, he was hardly able to support his sinking Fate. The Blood came thrilling from his panting Heart, his Sinews shrunk, and so strange a Lethargy came all over his fainting Senses, that he seemed fixed to the centre, at length, with hard struggling to resist this powerful Charm, he regained his Spirits, but so faint and weak, he was forced to retire, and leave the pursuit of this Mystery till the morrow. But instead of rest that night, his dark melancholy Thoughts were filled with Illusions and Fancies, as perplexing as those he came from.  
The next morning, which was one of the serenest and pleasantest imaginable, he was up with the first summons of the chirping Lark, and with greedy and thoughtful steps traversed the enamelled Fields, till he entered the Wood, where he began a curious search, examining every Tree, if possible, to make a farther discovery. He met with several little Sentences, but no more intelligible than the other; being come under the shady embracing greene's of that proud Poplar, where he, the day before he was seized with that anxious Trouble, had some Reflections on the hard measure of his Tyrannic Chains, but overcame them with a Resolution to continue his search.  
He had not advanced far, but there presented to his Eyes two young beautiful Cavaliers, Arm in Arm, walking a deliberate pace; and one at some distance behind them. These were the reciprocal and charming Don Lelio, Don Ariosto, and Carlo, who had chose this lovely Morn to ease the Secrets and Burden of their Souls. They seated themselves on the Bank of a pleasant and purling Stream, so close to the place where Melantius had concealed himself, that with ease he overheard all they said.  
The first that broke silence was Don Ariosto, who, after some deliberation, thus began:  

The History of Canace.  
THE Story which I shall tell you will be brief, having no Adventure to entertain your Ears, but the unaccountable Passion of a foolish and credulous Woman.  
My Birth, without ostentation, is as considerable as any Family this day in Italy, being Daughter of the Marquis de Castiglione Della Stivere, who married one of the Illustrious House of Caraffa in Naples; their Hearts were firmly united, and for some few years enjoyed the calmest Sererity that a tender Passion, attended with Greatness and Plenty, could create: But Love, nor all this Tranquillity, could not defend them from the Tyrannic Power of Death; for, my Mother, after being delivered of me her fatal Offspring, at the end of thirteen months resigned her Charms to the cold Tomb, leaving the Marquis my Father the most deplorable of Men; which he gave evident demonstration of to the World, not being able to survive the dear Partner of his softer hours full three months.  
My Parents being dead, I was committed to the charge of the Viscount Bozzolos, the noble and reciprocal Friend of my deceased Father, who in particular had left me his Ward, where I was brought up by the Viscountess (his Lady) with all the care imaginable, till maturer years made me capable of the best Education, which was liberally bestowed upon me. But ill Fortune still attended me, and bereft me a second time of an affectionate Mother: 'Twas a Loss difficultly to be supported by the disconsolate Viscount; yet Time wearing out the Excess of his Sorrow, he began to be comforted in the blooming Virtues of one only Son, and me, now his adopted Daughter, in whom every little Advantage of Wit and Beauty was his Glory. I was now the absolute Mistress of his House, and so equally did he share his Favours between Octavio (so was his Son called) and me, that the nicest Eye could not judge which stood fairest in his Affections. Yet an unkind turn of Fortune rendered us two the ingrateful Instruments of his Affliction; for, our Infant Natures, which had made us Companions in our harmless Pleasures, united us in a strong Band of Friendship, which daily improving, as we ripened in years, at length produced a mighty flame: Not that this could have done us any prejudice of itself, being (as we understood after) what the Viscount ever wished: but not knowing how it would be accepted of, (and a timorous bashfulness that generally attends young Lovers) made us industrious to conceal a Passion which consequently proved my Ruin.  
Joined to Octavio's Virtue, Wit, and Beauty, he had all the Power and Art of fine Persuasion; noble, facetious, and generous, but juster to his Friendship than his Love; one who could never fail to make his Passion prosper; with such Insinuation would he move, none could resist his Whispers and Address. In short, he made a Conquest of Canace, turned me to what he wished; he won my Soul with honourable Vows, and for my Love returned me double Interest. Thus, for some years, we enjoyed a calm Content of secret, innocent, and virtuous Friendship. Wrapped in these chaste Delights, we never once had Dreams of greater Bliss, had not the revolution of Affairs convinced us, that a Lover's Hopes has no Confinement.  
Octavio, to be rendered more polite, being already Master of his Studies, was by his Father sent to read the World and Men.  
This Separation was a fatal blow, to two united with an ardent Passion; but, being limited to just three years, we strove to bear it with a handsome courage, not parting without mutual Protestations of Love, Fidelity, of Truth and all. Here Passion swelled so big she could not speak, and filled her Auditors with feeling pity. But a few Sighs being past, and having dried her lovely Eyes, she renewed her Discourse, where 'twas broke off, and all that lavish Wishes could suggest, to Hearts then flaming with a pure Desire.  
His Travels being accompanied with a noble Youth, the Confidant and Friend of all his Pleasures, (by Name Alcidas, of the great Family of Pittis', those mighty Competitors to the House of Medicis, whose Enmity has been so long contracted, that the collateral Branches of that House still bear the unjust Resentment of that Quarrel;) some minutes stole away without Regret; my Faith I plighted, and he swore to be for ever mine. But, oh! forgive my interrupting Sighs, Who can relate the fickle Chance of Fortune, without grief, which more is to be blamed than any breach of my Octavio's Promise?  
A constant correspondence passed between us; and that we might with freedom write our Thoughts, our Letters were directed to one had been my Servant, who being now disposed of in the World, lived still with grateful Sentiments to serve me.  
Having thus passed two Year, and better, my cruel Fate drew on apace,  
Alcidas' business called him home in haste, when having made all ready for his Journey, Octavio recommended to his care, Letters to his Father, and to me. He was no Stranger to our constant Vows; Octavio had imparted all that passed, and left him as the trustiest of his Friends, with Justice to applaud his Love and Virtue. But see the strange reverse of Fortune, Alcidas came full fraught from poor Octavio, with Love, fresh Vows, and a thousand fond Addresses; which he defers to a kind opportunity, dispatching first his business to the State. He now became a constant Visitor, entertaining us with Stories of Octavio; the great delight I took in hearing of him, made me ne'er fail to be in company; yet no secure occasion did present, to make me happy with that dear Epistle. My ●●rm attention, when he did display the Courage, Wit, and Beauty of my Lover, engaged my Heart, my Ears, my Eyes upon him; but, oh! how often have I been surprised to find his Colour come and go, his Speech to falter, with all the symptoms of a troubled Mind. This passed without my knowing what it meant, being resolved not to take notice of it; but yet, alas! too soon I knew the Cause. Alcidas being frequent in his visits, came on a day the Viscount was abroad; I entertained him with an easy Freedom, but the ungenerous Passion raging in his Breast, made him remiss in all the Gallantries he did observe, he looked wild, turned pale, and answered, Mal a Propos, to all I spoke, seeming involved in anxious Cares and Trouble.  
I knew not what to think, but feared the worst, and was just going to ask him his Disease, when I percerved him rise, and come towards me trembling, he held a Letter in his Hand, his Eyes half drowned in Tears, he had not power to speak, till a large shower was sprinkled at my Feet, then in the posture of an humble Supplicant, he thus began:  
Madam, you see here prostrate at your feet one whom the Fates have done their worst to plague. The envious Gods throw heavy Curses on me, and rend my Soul with Horror and with Death. I from my youth have been Octavio ' s Friend, his secret, constant, honest, bosom Friend, loved where he loved, contemned where he despised, affected all Diversions he approved, loathed Place and Person that he did not like: So equally, so firm, so true we loved, as we were made to pleasure one another. What shall I say? The Heavens have done their worst to make a Wretch of base undone Alcidas; this Friend, that dared to trust me with his Life, made me the Confidant to your Amours, and recommended to my faithful charge Ten thousand tender Vows, and passionate Addresses, withal this Letter, (putting in my Hand the Billet which he held, but still went on) which I discharge, as I am bound by Honour. But, oh! when making to this happy Soil, why was I not blasted on the way, drowned in the turbulent, rude, boisterous Floods, or shook by some rough Thunderbolt to Atoms? Then Friends might say, So fell just good Alcidas. But I must live to lose my Fame and Value, and die a Blot and Scandal to my Name. Cursed be those Stars that did conduct me to those Charms which made a Captive of my Friend Octavio; my Optics are the same, my Heart is his, and where he loves, I cannot but adore. Then pardon, Madam, that you here behold your Slave reduced to love, without a Limit.  
Here having stopped, I knew not what to say: I must confess, I felt a great Compassion, his modest Speech could not incur my Anger; his sense of Wrongs and Faults committed pleased me; and I commiserating his ill chance, was going to return, when he proceeded:  
Judge, Madam, the sad Conflict of my Heart, betwixt my Love and those most sacred Ties of Friendship. Must I then wrong my Friend? By all that's good, I will not play him false. And at these words he started up in haste, his Words and Gesture seeming much resolved, when suddenly his Air was wholly changed, and falling faintly at my Feet again; But, oh! (said he) my Heart is not my own; who can resist those Charms I now behold? And saying so, his Spirit sunk within him, and left him breathless by me on the Floor.  
This Accident indeed disturbed me much, I called for the Assistance of my Maid, and with our Industry and Care recovered him. Then I began to plead against his Passion, to represent my Contract to Octavio; still taking care to clinch upon his Honour, and blow those noble Sparks I still felt warm with Generosity, which I affirmed would render him more Praise, more Joy, than the fruition of my dull Embraces: He heard with all the torment of Despair; yet being biased by his generous Genius, he did resolve to quit the Siege, and never, never more to see my Face; but parting, told me, when I heard his Death, which suddenly would invade my Ears, I should remember, none ever loved so well, nor none e'er suffered more.  
In short, he seemed fixed in his Resolution, which filled me with a World of Satisfaction, hoping that Absence might effect his Cure, without that cruel Remedy of Death. I retired with a Mind transported with the Thoughts of my Octavio, read his dear Letter over twenty times, kissed and caressed his Characters and Seal, and thought myself secure from this Alcidas.  
But see the frailty of a Lover's Promise: 'Tis true, he made no more his common Visits, endeavouring with true care to avoid my presence; but the cross Destinies, that owed us Spite, led his dull pensive Steps into a Church where I was offering up my Hours Devotions: He came up to the Altar where I kneeled, and placed himself a little distance from me, but knew me not, by reason of my Veil: Nor had I yet observed a Man so near me; for being wrapped in a Seraphic Joy, my Thoughts had no relation to the World; when flinging up my Veil, to breathe some Air, I heard the Voice of one in great surprise cry out, Good God, defend me; with that I turned, and to my troubled view appeared Alcidas, pale as Death, unable to support his sinking Limbs, his Eyes all languishing with Love and Pain, spoke with more moving Rhetoric than a Tongue; yet, Pity being all I could afford, I left him in that most deplorable estate, whilst he, without the power to move my stay, made faint Petitions with his trembling Hands; but I, deaf and insensible as the Winds, fled, and with eager paces got me home, where I began to exclaim against this Chance, with angry resentment of Alcidas. How much he loved, I was too well convinced, and doubted the Event of such a Passion: I plainly saw how Willingly he strove, with Violence and Art, to quench his Flame, but yet the gnawing Tortures of his Breast insensibly excites him to relief: Two or three Interviews he got of me, fanned his soft Fire into a furious Blaze, which he no longer able to support, abandoned Friendship, Honour, Truth, and Virtue, and gave himself entirely up to Love.  
The first Advance he put in execution, was, to propose our Marriage to the Viscount, which several times was done without my Knowledge. The aged Seniors met in consultation, and struck the Bargain as themselves thought fit. Alcidas' Family was rich and noble, himself admired for a gallant Youth, loved, valued, and approved of by the World; which pleased the Viscount, that I there should match, to Honour, and to Wealth, as I was born.  
Things being thus decreed, 'twas requisite next to consult my Mind in this Affair, of which I had not entertained the least Suspicion; till on a day, pensive, and sad as Death, I chose the Garden for a safe retreat, to nurse that melancholy vapour which oppressed me. After I had spent some time in troubled Thoughts, under the shady Branches of the Trees, my Maid drew near, and gave to me a Letter; the Character I had never seen before, which seized me with a strange unusual Distrust; but when I opened it, and found Alcidas' Name, Gods! how it struck me with a kill Fear! my feeble Limbs could hardly do their Office, to bear me to a little private Arbour, where I sat down to read the fatal Billet; the Contents thereof were these:  
ALCIDAS to CANACE.  
LOVE, the predominant Passion of the Mind, I find, can bear with no Competitor; how much I have striven to overcome its Power, witness thou great Controller of our Reason: but the resistless Charms of Heavenborn Beauty has quite cashiered that idle Notion Honour, which serves but to betray our freeborn Wishes to the Capricio of fewer Appetite; a mere fantastic empty Vanity of our own making, and governed by our Wills, not Inclinations. Octavio loves, but much more doth Alcidas: Desire doth rage in every vital part; nor can my Soul subsist without your Pity: I can no longer suffer endless pains, Nature will prompt us Remedies to seek, and Reason teach us how to ease a Torment. Wonder not, Madam, that I have engaged the Viscount's Pleasure, to secure you mine; all that can move an Avaricious Mind, shall lavishly be offered at your Feet; only resolve to make me truly happy, since my unbounded Passion will aspire to gratify the tenderest of my Thoughts, and prosecute with vigour my Design, being positively destined ever Yours,  
ALCIDAS.  
I found by this, his Hopes were much exalted; the Viscount's Promise strangely did amaze me, for yet he had not told me his Intentions, nor did I dream I was so near a Ruin; what should be done, I could no way determine, but sat confounded at this cruel blow. When I perceived the Viscount pass me by, a thousand Resolutions filled my Mind, which suddenly were lost without Conclusion: Sometimes I thought to charge him with Injustice, blame his too free disposal of my Heart, and positively refuse the Match. When milder Thoughts took place, I soon found this too rash; Honour and Virtue bound me still to Duty, since he had proved in all respects a Father: to tell him how Octavio and I loved, could no way get admittance from my Tongue; and Reason did suggest, that had he liked that Love, he would have first proposed it.  
Debates and Tumults rising in my Breast, I knew no Method how I should allay them. Oppressed without the comfort of Relief, various Opinions ended in this last, of taxing him with an unkind proceeding: With that I quit the Arbour where I sat, and met the Viscount, who was now returned. My Thoughts swelled high to vent a Flood of Grief, but a respectful Awe confined my Tongue, and I had no more power left than just to ask him of his Health: However, long I was not in suspense; the Viscount fond told me his Design, bid me prepare to make a happy Bride, and bless the World with an Illustrious Offspring. He told me, I must wed the brave Alcidas, with all the Advantages that Fate could give, or I could wish for. What I returned I cannot now retain; my Thoughts were so disturbed, I quite forgot my Answer, but sure I am I very much opposed it, which he employed to Virgin-Modesty, bidding me departed, and wisely make my Choice.  
I left him almost ready to expire, got to my Chamber, where I wrote at large each circumstance and tittle to Octavio, bid him make haste to save a constant Maid, since Life or Death depended on his stay; but not a Letter ever reached his Hands, Alcidas intercepted all that passed, still pushing on with violence and care the consummation of a wretched Bliss.  
Hard shift I made to get two months' Reprieve, in hopes to have an Answer from Octavio, but seeing none, I found there was a Cheat; Rage and Resentment so possessed my Mind, I gave myself up wholly to Despair, and did at the last extremity resolve to sacrifice myself when at the Altar. Things were now almost brought to a conclusion, the Wedding-day prefixed, a Pomp prepared, where I was to surrender by compulsion a Hand, where I could not resign a Heart: but what prevented my unhappy fall, kills my sad Soul with the remembrance: Octavio, by some base officious Hand, had false Intelligence of this Amour, wherein they represented it my Choice, with all the aggravations could incense a man abused, as he believed he was: The Viscount's Letters told him of our Marriage, without the circumstance of my aversion, and ne'er receiving any one from me, confirmed him easily, beyond dispute, that I was turned a fickle mean Ingrate.  
What he designed I never yet could learn, but he with speed came posting home to Madrid, a place where we for many years resided, entered the City privately at night, and got admittance in the Family; 'twas late, and we were all retired to Rest, which made him give Command not to disturb us; but no Repose could ease my weary Eyes, that almost were consumed with Tears and Grief. I spent that night in Tortures beyond Wracks, dreading each moment which drew on the day when I was to be married to Alcidas.  
This News Octavio learned in his Discourse with an old Servant, that had let him in, which raised him to the height of Desperation. Some hours he traced the Room in great disorder, having difmissed the Servant to his Bed, with charge to keep it secret he was there; whilst bandying in his Thoughts Ten thousand Projects, ill Chance, and not Premeditation, forced an Act, which Love, and only Love, must justify.  
Just as the Day peeped through its thick Veil, and cast imperfect Shadows on the Earth, Alcidas, whose transported Thoughts ne'er rested, impatient of delay, came underneath my Window, and with a gentle Summons raised his voice to these Expressions, which as my Maid took down, I well remember:  

The SONG.  

ASTREA, wake, disperse thy Fears;  
Look up, behold, the Day appears:  
Whilst I impatiently do wait,  
The promised bliss, to crown my Fate.  
Phoebus, lash on each fiery Steed,  
Let Phaeton supply thy speed;  
My Heart does burn as well as bleed.   

Rise and outshine the splendid Light;  
Let every kill Grace invite,  
And raise my Soul to such desire,  
That Thought no farther can aspire:  
Then every dying Sigh shall breathe  
The Ecstasy I do receive,  
And those Delights I mean to give.   

Clear up those gloomy drooping Eyes,  
And see the glorious Sun arise,  
With brighter Splendour to survey  
The Triumphs of this happy day:  
Away with all disdainful Pride,  
All coy Reservedness lay aside;  
Prepare to be a joyful Bride.    
Octavio did with pain attend the end, and being well convinced this was Alcidas, rushed out upon him in a Storm of Rage, and with a Dagger smiting in his Breast, cried out, This as a grateful Present from Canace, delivered by the Hands of wronged Octavio.  
Alcidas struggled with a weak defence, and strove to gain some time to draw his Sword, but 'twas too late, the Wound he had received laid him on the Ground, deprived of Life.  
I from my Chamber plainly heard what passed, which rendered me half dead with Fear and Horror; too well I knew Octavio's voice to be deceived, and could not guests what Fate had brought him thither; a thousand dreadful Thoughts did multiply, and filled my Bosom with a throbbing Terror: hurried by distracted Fears, I fling a Nightgown carelessly upon me, and ran with open Arms to find Octavio, but found him in a manner overwhelmed with Sorrow. The lovely Mourner, fixed as in a Trance, stood weeping o'er the Body of Alcidas, when I with trembling Transport seized upon him, spoke all the tenderness that Love could dictate, but he contemning all my Sighs and Tears, forced himself violently from my Arms, made no Reply to any thing I said, but threw me from him with a scorned Disdain, and left my Heart just bursting with this usage, whilst he with nimble flight stole from the City, got to his Servant left without the Gates, mounted his Horse, and road for Life and Refuge, abandoned by all Comfort to his Fortune.  
Mad as a frantic Bacchanal I raved, and hardly could be hindered from pursuing him. My Maid had used all Arguments with Reason that might persuade a sense not wholly banished; but finding I was refractory to Advice, and hearing the trampling noise of Feet draw near, made no Apology, but pulled me in, and gently shut the Door.  
This Quarrel reached no Ears but only ours, except the Servant, who had let him in, who finding him uneasy in his Mind, had modestly withdrawn to wait his Order, and accidentally being fallen asleep, not wakened till the Fray was almost over: Scarce had my Maid chained up the outward Gate, but he approached us with disordered Care, making a strict Enquiry for Octavio; Oh! how I sunk beneath my load of Fears, left this loved cruel Man should now be ruined; Ingrateful as he was, I still adored him: 'Twas then, even tho' his Perjuries were fresh, I did forget the Outrage done my Heart, to think of Means for his Security: Stifling the Anguish of my sinking Soul, I made a cunning search into this Servant, and learned from him the time Octavio came, and that he was alone, disguised and dull, that none had seen him enter but himself, whom Business accidentally had kept up. This gave, through all my Fears, some little Hope, that probably there might be no Distrust, if I could bribe this man to Secrecy.  
With subtle Instruments I probed his Breast, and found it at the bottom truly honest, his Interest and Advantage was Octavio's, whom he loved and served for many Years, admired in Infancy his budding Virtues, and at those early days sought his Affection; yet I not failed, from time to time, to seal his vowed Fidelity with powerful Gold. Having thus passed a sacred solemn Promise, next, to avoid Suspicion in the House, we stole with silent Caution all to Bed, to me the most detested place in Nature (because designed for Rest and Fase); yet forced my Heart even far beyond my Will, since all this Care concerned Octavio's Good.  
Till nine of the Clock the next morning, I suffered all the racking Pains of Love, Fear, and Jealousy, and by this time Report was spread throughout the City, that Alcidas was slain, his Hat and Gloves, that dropped in the Rencounter, being found drenched in a dreadful gore of Blood, but for the Body, it could not be heard of, tho' careful strict enquiry was made. The Viscount startled at the fatal news, came trembling with surprise and grief, to tell me; at sight of whom, before he spoke a word, Reflection dashed my tortured breast, and not being able to support its weight, I sunk from the Chair I sat, into a Swoon. He guessed, by this, that I had been informed, and weeping, bore a part in my Affliction, pitying my Loss, and poor Alcidas' Fortune. Industry was used to bring my Life, but all their Application was in vain, till above half the day was spent, than I began to breathe the Air of wild Distraction. Madrid was now the Seat of Wonder, Rage, and Sorrow; the Murder of so great a man was generally lamented: a search was now began throughout the City, both for the Assassinates and wretched Corpse, no House, or Vault, or Well escaped a ransack, which gave me all the agony of Fear, for the unfortunate distressed Octavio; yet all this diligence made no discovery, no Author found that had done such a deed, nor could Alcidas' Body e'er be heard of, which Riddle I could never understand. Our Family did suffer cruel Censures; my strange Aversion, and the fatal Place, the Time, nay, every Circumstance looked odd, and gave too fair Pretences for Suspicion, but nothing could be proved; so that the Death of this Unfortunate received no other expiation than a public Sorrow.  
Contrary to my Hopes, 'tis true, I lived, but lived the most dejected She on Earth; mourned that this Tragedy was not my own, rather than be the Fate of all adored me: I saw the passionate Alcidas fall, and feared the utter loss of brave Octavio; his parting Blow kept still a fresh Idea of all the Cruelty that there was acted. I doubted his extremity of Mind would prompt him rashly to destroy himself; or, if he lived, he lived no longer mine. How wretched, how unhappy was my Life! my Fears augmented by perpetual Silence; no Tidings of Octavio could be heard, no Letter nor no Message did come near us, which much perplexed the melancholy Viscount; but I, that knew too much, and dreaded to know more, died daily with the expectation of the worst. Sometimes I thought I was obliged to speak, that necessary Methods might be taken; but, oh! the Bloody Fact had so much Horror, that my Soul shrunk at the remembrance, to tell the Viscount 'twas impossible, and likewise barbarous to disturb his Peace; besides, I knew not how he would resent my management, in keeping it so long. Thus restless, thus oppressed, I sunk beneath the Burden of a Secret, which Time had made too dangerous to reveal. The small Relief of Hope had almost left me: Silent and sad, I bore a tedious Pain, and only waited Death to give me Ease, when there arrived a Letter from Octavio; the Viscount, unto whom it was directed, read it with all the smiling Air of Pleasure, but my prophetic Fear allowed no Transport; an unaccountable foretelling Sadness did overcome my Joy, to hear he lived; I dreaded to inquire, yet knew not why; but, oh! too soon the Viscount did expose that Letter, which produced my final Ruin.  
Octavio was now at Portugal, from whence he excused his long silence and stay, since 'twas not to be imagined he could return to Madrid, without endangering the loss of Life and Fortune, for Reasons which he guessed the Viscount knew; but he, good Man, did only apprehend these words as they related to the next that followed, which told him of a noble Match proposed, between himself and a most glorious Maid, framed by peculiar Providence with care, and made a charming Abstract of Perfection; Aspasia, happy Aspasia, was her Name, Daughter to the most Renowned Duke de Almeyda, born to command and conquer all that saw her: Crowds of adoring Slaves lay at her Feet, and gloried in their blessed Captivity, the Universe did ne'er produce before a clearer Virtue, Wit, or solid Judgement; nor Nature form so lovely or exact a Beauty; For, oh! (said she, in Sighs and floods of Tears) I have heard her perfect and impartial Character.  
At this Don Lelio blushed, and almost died with swift reflections on his vanquished Honour, and the kind lavish Praises of his Rival. The sad concealed Melantius, at this part, was ready with his Passion to expire, but chased with violence his Spleen away, to give attention to the mournful Sequel; whilst Don Ariosto, who had too much Grief to mind an alteration in Don Lelio, proceeded in this manner:  
'Twas here my Fugitive discovered Charms; nor Sorrow, Wit, nor Reason coul withstand; such Charms, that when his Soul was all o'er dark and dismal Horror calmed and dispersed the melancholy Cloud, disarmed the torturing Fury in his Breast, and placed a Troop of smiling Cupid's there; 'twas not without encouragement he wrote to learn what he might hope for from his Father, on what Demands he might expect to gain a Beauty of that bounteous Wit and Dower, giving his Raptures latitude to speak the most he thought his Mistress could deserve.  
This when I read, no Tongue can tell my smart, my throbbing Breast did heave, my Eyes distorted, no doubtful Wretch that stood their latest Doom, was half so shocked at a condemning Sentence, speechless and cold I fell upon the ground, and only short-breathed Sighs declared I lived; but soon again I did recover strength, to fall a Supplicant at the Viscount's Feet, to whom I wept, and told the movingst Tale, that his sad Pressures, like to Niobe's, seemed to have turned his reverend Frame to Stone. I wept, and told him even from our budding Loves, each circumstance of what I have now related, declared the Murder, and displayed my Wrongs, begging him to compassionate my Cause, since I was still compelled to die or love him.  
Grief stopped his Tongue from making a Reply, but with his Head he bid me quit the Room, to give him liberty to vent his Trouble. I left him languishing to that degree, that Fate sat daring Reason in his Face, which pierced my very Soul; as I departed, the look he gave me seemed a last Farewell; and 'twas with great compulsion I retired, to leave him to the rigid Sourge of Fortune, which, I perceived, did handle him severely.  
After some wretched hours of close retirement, he forced a settled Mind, and sent for me; his Countenance appeared without a Cloud, and every Action had an easy Air: Smiling, he risen, and took me by the Hand, and placed me on a Seat just by him, discoursed me with the greatest Moderation, that I could hardly credit what I saw. Maturely he discussed upon each point, and brought it subtilely to a kind result; told me, that since hard Fate had played its Game, our Care must be to help and crown all future managements with good Success; bid me not mourn what I could not redress, but learn of him to bear the Lash of Fortune.  
I could not judge if this was Artifice, or whether he had overcome his Passion, yet parted from him much more satisfied, for he had promised to restore Octavio, if I would leave the Conduct to his Will. With humble resignation I consented, wholly to be disposed by his Command; for, I confess that my unparallelled Love fell to the height of abject Supplication.  
Within two days I went from Madrid, to pass the tedious minutes more sedate, in a still rural Villa of the Viscount's, that thirty miles stood distant from the City; there, there how many wretched hours flew, in the reflection of my dubious Destiny; no Shade, no Grove, but conscious of my Grief, my Tears supplied each Rivulet and Spring, and every melancholy Grotto spoke Despair, to the perpetual Volleys of my Sighs.  
'Twas thus I spent the best part of a Year, whilst the kind Viscount acted things at home beyond the expectation of a Friend, and cunningly in my behalf he did proceed: he writ Octavio word, That his Fears need not any way oppose his coming home, for none could guests him guilty of that Crime; besides, the great Affair which he proposed could ne'er be decided at that distance; therefore 'twas requisite he should return, to settle all in Peace for his advantage: giving some hints, that I was then retired, lest that should be a Motive for his staying.  
It was these generous Letters once more induced Octavio to see Madrid; the Interview between him and the Viscount, I heard, was very passionate and moving, which being mitigated in few days, he introduced the mournful Tragic Tale, which was the fatal Cause of all our Evil: Octavio charged the weighty Sin on me, whose Falseness had betrayed him to that Mischief, and then the good old Man did weep, to vindicate my much wronged Faith and Honour, owning the Act (as really 'twas) his own, to force me on a Match I loathed and hated. At this Octavio sensibly was touched, and bore a friendly part in my Misfortune, but Love was banished, all that Stock he swore could never be exhausted, now was spent, and I was then reduced to sordid Pity: Nothing could move a kind Consent to see me, his Heart was absolutely now fewer; for tho' upon the Fall of poor Alcidas he fled, to seek a noble Death, entirely despising Thoughts of Life, resistless Beauty, that overweighs the World, and balances bright Virtue with a Bubble, with her engaging Charms seized on his wand'ring Soul, and laid her strict Commands on him to live; he could not view a Mistress so abused, nor stand the Test of my severe Reproaches; nor would he wed the Woman for whose sake his Hands had been embrued in that dear Blood; or rather 'twas his newborn Flame prevailed, to make him quit the Seat of his Confusion, and seek a Sanctuary of Repose on the soft Bosom of his chosen Bride.  
Within six Weeks he went from Madrid, to prosecute his last-established Love; nor were there any Offers could reclaim him: Which News the Viscount would have hid from me, but oh! I had too true Intelligence, Reason kept Argus' Watch, tho' Love was blind; nor could my hundred Eyes be all deluded, too obvious was this last ungrateful part for me to be deceived, or Heaven to pardon. I scorned myself, that I could not contemn the Man that had so slighted and abused me; but, oh! impossible, I loved to that degree, not all my Wrongs had influence to reclaim; still I adored, still languished to retain the most perfidious Wretch that ever breathed; in vain I sighed, in vain deplored the loss of all my Hopes, the false Octavio, in whom I yet discerned Ten thousand  
Thus you have heard the Fate of poor Canace, the most unhappy Maid that ever loved; hitherto all my Life has been one Plague, and what I am to suffer will be great, since now the utmost prospect of my Hope is Bankrupt to that last and wretched point of learning how to bear with Resignation.   
Don Lelio, who had given strict attention to the relation of this mournful Tale, looked on the lovely Innocent, who wept, and weeping pierced the Souls of those that heard her, like April showers in Tears she mourned, which like the Heavenly Dew dropped from her Eyes and veiled the lustre of those beauteous Orbs, and, like an Evening Zephyrus, her Sighs whispering their murmuring Accents through the Air, wrought the Inanimates unto compassion. Thus Sorrow in its Splendour did appear, all moving, all transporting, all engaging, melting the tender Hearts of the Spectators, who gazing on the melancholy Maid, suffered the charming Object so to please, they never thought to interrupt her Grief, till they beheld her fall into a Swoon.  
Melantius, all o'er Pity and Concern, was rushing from his Covert to her succour, when he perceived Don Lelio clasp her close, laying her Head upon his panting Bosom, and chaffing gently with his Hands her Temples, this application summoned back her life, which by degrees assumed the glorious form, dispersing through her dying Face a Bloom that warmed the very Heavens with Desire, and gave such Satisfaction to Don Lelio, that catching her with Rapture in his Arms, he cried, Cease, cease, my dearest Friend, to be perplexed, Octavio may and shall be still thy own, if Time and your Disease will now permit. Wonders! 'tis Wonders that I have to tell you.  
At this Melantius did again retire, who otherwise was going to appear, and make an offering of himself to serve them. The fainting Maid, recovered by this Speech, rubbed off the Chagreen of all her Woe, and earnestly composed herself to hear; the which Don Lelio having well observed, most readily proceeded in this manner:  

The History of Aspasia.  
LET not an empty Name incur your Rage, nor be you too too partial in Resentment, then I'll confess myself to be Aspasia, that very same Aspasia you distrust, yet Honour with so high a Character, she whom blind Fortune took delight to jilt, and make the Pastime of her fickle Humour; she who has met with too severe a Curse; yet conscious of no weighty Sin but Love, your Rival once, for evermore your Friend, if you will generously embrace the Offer; for know, it was my unexperienced years gave me that Title, and not Inclination, Gratitude may sometimes be mistake for Passion; no more was mine no farther my Concern: But I'll not dare to justify Octavio; he who insensibly abandons Charms the greatest Monarch would be proud to boast of, can no way make addition to a Crime, of which the World most justly will accuse him: Yet since 'twas you that first engaged his Heart, and taught it how to love, and to resent, Pity a Mad-man's Frenzy, 'tis no more, and let me plead for him who is my Ruin.  
At this she paused, and gave Ariosto time to view her with Amazement, and Disorder, Fear, Hope; and Jealousy at once attacked, and battered her with fierce Artillery; she looked upon her sometimes as a Foe, sometimes a Friend, and knows not which to think her, but prudently her Judgement did suspend, till she had heard the sequel of the Story.  
Never till now Melantius was so lost, to see Aspasia by him in that habit, within the compass of his Arms, there in a Country desolate, remote, far from her noble Father and Relations, weeping to craggy Rocks and senseless Trees, far from that Princely Splendour once she used to grace the Courts and Palaces of Lisbon, where glorious Captives waited at her Feet, proud to be chose to do some little Service, and where he had imagined her in all the Gaiety of Youth and Pleasure, triumphing o'er a Crowd of bleeding Hearts, stabbing by Frowns, transporting by her Smiles, beyond the Wishes of fantastic Woman: What could this mean? by what strange Miracle found he Aspasia, on the Verge of Naples? That sprightly Beauty that enslaved the World, tracing a solitary Grove in Sorrow, wasting the Treasure of her Youth in Exile; oh! how amazed, how Thunder struck was he, to see that unexpected kill Object, the Mistress of his Soul before his Eyes, with all those Charms that made him first her Captive! her whom he unadvisedly abandoned, whose very Memory he once contrived to banish, too late alas! he found he was deceived, found that the Gods had Interest in her Cause, and took peculiar care to make it prosper; 'twas hardly he gave credit to his Eyes, but really did believe he saw a Vision, wishing perpetual Sleep to charm his Senses, still to retain that dear deluding Phantasm; but when he recollected from that Thought, and found each Faculty was sound and perfect, his Wonder and Confusion did increase, to know what God, what Fate had brought her thither: All angry Resentments left his Breast, inspired by Wishes and Love's softer Fire, the little God sat playing in her Eyes and showed him all the Pleasure, not the Pain, of dazzling Rapture and more fond Desire, inviting him by all those little Arts that first betrayed his easy tranquil Mind to the subjection of his wanton Snares, to curse his Rigour, yet adore his Power: Once more he triumphs o'er his bleeding Heart, shot thick his Arrows, and secured his Throne, tickled him with the Feathers of his Dart, till unperceived he fell upon the Steel, and smiling at his Wound, sucked in the Poison.  
Don Lelio's Dress did render him more fair, exposing Beauties that were made to conquer; Charms that had been concealed lay open now, Limbs the most regular and most surprising. Lost in a mighty Ecstasy, he gazed, dying and languishing for the possession; not one past Injury did grate his Soul, or discompose its ravished Entertainment; Resentment fled beyond the very Clouds, and buried all his Wrongs in dark Oblivion. The Nymph, all chaste and innocent, did look youthful, engaging, beautiful and tempting, and to his Eyes appeared without a blemish: None but his wretched self he did accuse and tax with too much Folly and Credulity, who rashly had forsaken, for the first Fault, the most deserving Creature in the World: If she had Sense, he knew she must resent it, and therefore was distracted with his Fears, how to retrieve the Interest he had lost: With Looks unguarded, and unbounded Thoughts, he gave away the remnant of his Soul, each wand'ring Faculty, caught by surprise, was made a second and substantial Conquest, prompt by Distrust and violent Desire, his breaking Heart no longer could resist, but was just falling at her Feet for Mercy, when the distressed fair One thus broke silence, and Curiosity stopped his proceeding:  
That I am Daughter to the Duke Antonio de Almeyda, I blush to own, having the least deserved that worthy Lot, and most abused my Interest in that Name: My Mother, who derived from no inconsiderable Branch of the Piacenze's Dukes, had all Advantages that could complete a Beauty; for, besides the rare Perfections of her Person, she had Wit, Fortitude, Judgement, and Virtue, which begot her the Applause, Admiration, and Esteem of all that knew her: she was universally adored, and industriously sought for by all the neighbouring Princes in Italy; nor did a Stranger pass throughout the Country, that made it not his chiefest care to see the fine Charlott, so was she called.  
Amongst the rest, it was the Duke d' Almeyda's chance (who was just then come to that Title by the Death of his Father) to travel through Parma, where she then resided; he resolved not to quit the City till he had a sight of this lovely celebrated Beauty, which was no hard matter for a Man of his Quality. He saw, and was convinced, gave up his Freedom at the fatal View, and ever after owned himself her Slave.  
Their Amour was romantic and entertaining, but too tedious to recite here, therefore passing over all Preliminaries, we arrive at their Nuptials, which was very noble and magnificent, with splendid Masques, Balls and Tournaments, wherein all the youthful Nobility assembled, and performed diversity of Gallantries: Three years after Marriage the Duke stayed in that Country, by the Intercession of his Wife, who found no small. Regret to leave her Native Soil; but at length, urged by necessity of some weighty Affairs, wherein the Duke had been a very considerable Loser, they were forced on their Journey at a very inconvenient time for my Mother, who was then eight months gone with Child of me, Heaven had already blessed them with a Son, whose graceful Aspect promised early Virtues: Not much above one year they had enjoyed him, when they set forward towards Portugal; they met with a pleasant Land-Journey, and embarked with as fair a Prospect, but that overruling Power that finds it expedient sometimes to dash our sweetest Cups with Gall, presented them a too too bitter Draught, which when compelled by Fate, there's no Man can resist.  
They were within some few hours sail of shore, when the Heavens overcast, and a dreadful Storm arose, which proved only a direful Omen of their Misfortunes, for in less than half an hour it cleared again to pleasant calmness and serenity; when from the Top-mast-head they ' spied a Ship that gave them chase, with all the sail that she could make they crowded down upon them; they were in some consternation and surprise, but the Duke, whose noble Soul could ne'er admit of Fear, took all the most convenient methods for defence that the short time would give him leave. Now, by the nigh approach, to their Perplexity, they discerned her to be a famous Pirate, who for many years had scoured those Seas; no way they had to escape, for their Adversary having the Wind, soon boarded them. The Duke at this time performed Wonders, but having few Assistants besides his own Attendants, and not being well provided for what so little was expected, after a stout defence, which startled much the Pirates, by desperate Multitudes he was repulsed: They being now the Masters of the Ship, grew insolent, and rifled all their Treasure, clapping the Sailors under Hatches, and making all their Prize. My Mother, who had endured all the violence of Fears and Terror, at this last Scene of immediate Death or Slavery, fell with the direful Imagination into a Swoon. The Duke being luckily by, received her in his Arms, and altho' his Reflections did present him with too clear a Prospect of their Woe, he used all the Indulgence and tender Applications that could recover her, and encourage her to bear Fa●e with a Patience worthy of herself. It was a considerable time before he was convinced she lived, and the fatal demonstration served but to involve him in a greater Doubt; for the warm Persuasions he had whispered, summoned back some fleeting Hopes, and untimely disclosed her Eyes, to be a Spectator of young Frederick (their only Child) and his Nurse, just forced on board the Pirate. This Sight renews her former Grief, and sunk her with the weight of Desperation: Nor was the Duke, with all his Fortitude, now in condition to address a Comfort, he saw his Wife expiring at his Feet, his Child a Captive to insulting Villains, and he the sinking Prop that should relieve them; Love, Pity, Charity divides his Breast, and equally demands his kind Assistance, but all the Means was taken from his Hands, and he had nothing left but his bare Wishes, which was reduced to wish himself, and his dear Wife, next Prey, that they might suffer all together.  
Whilst he stood in this Extremity of Care, a violent and unexpected Hurricane arose, and separated the Ships, which lay grappled together, the fury of the Tempest drove them so fast, that in short time they lost sight of each other: The Seamen, who were very industrious at their Plunder, were most of them in the Longboat, conveying off their Booty, and but two at this time left on board the Duke, abject Rascals, who finding their Necessity, meanly were imploring for their Lives, but the Duke, who was wholly taken up with his Sorrow, had but just reason enough left to release his own Seamen, to whose Mercy he left them, and from whose hand they received their Deaths, whilst he employed himself in the recovery of my Mother: Grief, and the cruel Sufferings she underwent had taken full possession of her Heart, and it was with great difficulty they kept her Soul and Body together, till they made a Port in Algarves, called Tavila, where she had not been two days, but she was delivered of me, sometime before the usual season, and delivered up her Life at the same minute: My Father was the most afflicted Man in the World, and had it not been in consideration of me, which obliged him to preserve his Life, in care to mine, he hardly had survived my Mother. He stayed not long after the Funeral-Rites, but took me, with my Nurse, to a House he has near Ville-nevove, where he lived a disengaged and retired Life, till I attained the Years of Fourteen, at which time he thought it convenient to introduce me into the World, that I might be the better capable of acting for myself: We then removed to Lisbon, where we lived with all the Grandeur that could render an advantage to my blooming Years, I had the Privilege of visiting the Court, and some public Places, which, in a short time, got me not a few Admirers. The Duke was willing to see me well disposed of, and encouraged those of the most Illustrious Families, and of the greatest Characters, for me to make my Choice; but I being only taken with the Gallantry and Address, lived with a cold Indifference to the Sex, and could not be prevailed upon to Marry.  
It was at this time, that my small Beauty gained some little Fame at Lisbon, when Octavio appeared at Court, and was generally reported, a Noble Cavalier, but one whose nice Virtues were eclipsed by a profound Melancholy, there lacked not those who imputed it to Love, and applied it to several of our Beauties, yet knew no more than from their bare Opinion; he had the good luck to be particularly received amongst the Ladies; and I confess myself, that often I have viewed him with some Pleasure: He had something in his Aspect that attracted all Eyes, and something in his Disposition so engaging, that there was no beholding him with bare Indifference; yet mine was Admiration, and not Love, which afterwards I was too dear convinced of: Several small Services I had received, which passed with me but as his common Humour, till a more evident Address too fatally informed me; Madrigals, Songs, and Billetdoux, he sent; by Night with Sighs and Serenades he entertained me; by these and a thousand other ways, he oft declared the Message of his Heart, which found more free access into my Breast, than all the Gallantry I knew before; yet I had Conduct to conceal my Thoughts, and gave him not the least Encouragement, but rather seemed vexed at his ill placed Passion; some Months passed on with this Amusement, without much Love, or much Consideration, till daily Services enhanced the Store of mighty Favours, that I began to fear the Payment; hitherto he had no access into our House, and found it difficult to gain my Presence, till a most famed remarkable Exploit, gave him a fair, and plausible Pretention:  
One Day at a famous Match of Hunting, where most of the Nobility (then residing at Lisbon) participated of the Diversion, Ladies as well as Men, were in the Field to see the Pastime, and partake of the Chase, I being mounted on a fierce Arrabian Courser, followed the Game with earnest satisfaction; my Inclination to those Country Sports, and the Rural Life I had been used to, gave me opportunity to make myself a complete Horse-woman: I was now hot in pursuance of the Chase, and gave full Reins to my Horse, without consideration, when a Servant followed me to deliver a Tablet I had dropped, which I turning back to receive, just as I was at the brink of a rapid River, and not checking my speed, the Horse not being used to boggle at any opposition, took the Water, and before I could recover, plunged into the Stream, where with the violence of the Flood, and struggling of the Beast, I lost my Saddle, and was left floating.  
All that saw this Accident, were in great Consternation how to deliver me from the danger, yet was cautious of themselves, but the Duke my Father, urged by his Paternal Love and Care, desperately pursued me into the River, where instead of preserving me, he met with the same Misfortune, and we had like to have sunk together, had not the Brave Octavio, (who was then on the top of a Bridge built over the Stream) seeing our Distress, quited his Horse, and like Persius, or some Guardian Deity leapt in to save us: The Event answered his Design, for after some little struggling, he recovered us both, and swum with us out in each Hand in Triumph.  
This Godlike Action begot Admiration in all the Spectators, but for our parts, that had not yet sense to know our Safety, or Deliverer, stupid, and half dead, we were conveyed to a Grange within view, where the best means was used to recover us: And here Octavio's Gallantry was more observable, in refusing to shift his  till he was confirmed we lived.  
From these generous Actions, (after the Recovery of a dangerous Sickness it gave us both) Octavio became the Darling Friend of the Duke, and their Intimacy grew so remarkable, that it was a great Chance to find them separate; a long while Octavio was so brave to stifle all his Hopes, with feigned Indifference, being loath to urge the mighty Obligation, till Love, resistless Love overcame his Will, and added greater hopes to gratify his Passion, no longer could he bore the hard Restraint, but willing to improve his fleeting Hours, began a more solemn Court then ever yet he had pretended to. From my Youth, and Unexperience, and the particular Esteem I had ever found for Octavio, I was inclinable to believe I Loved, he being the first Man that could ever warm me into a Liking, and considering the Duke was just upon the Design of Marrying me, Gratitude, and some small Inclination, made me not violent to oppose a Flame, I thought I could better dispense with than any; but the Duke, since the Misfortune of his Wife and Son, having fixed his future Bliss, and utmost Hopes in me, and lived Unmarried to make me Great and Fortunate, could not bare the Thoughts of my Separation to another Kingdom; and I really believe there was nothing but Octavio's being a Stranger, disappointed his Wishes; he declined it with all the Complaisance in the World, conferring daily Favours on him, and generous Offers to compensate, if possible, for the Lives he had received at his Hands, without so dear an Acknowledgement, not forgetting prviate Commands to me, not to allow or encourage his Address: but I, from the Duke's Affection to him, not expecting this Repulse, had rashly advanced too far, and tho' it was not difficult for my Heart to recant, yet Duty obliged me to refer myself to my Father, and Honour to excuse myself under the same pretext to him.  
Affairs were in this manner between us, when Octavio was summoned Home to Madrid, which he evaded a long time, nor would not departed till I had promised him, if he could gain the Duke's Consent, he should not fail of mine; we had private interviews by the Assistance of my Maid, where through his Intercession, I assented to a Correspondence during his Absence, for the grateful Sentiments I had entertained of him since his rescuing us from Death, made it difsicult for me to deny him any reasonable Request.  
With these Assurances, tho' not without great Regret, he set forward his Journey; I was not under the easiest Circumstances when we parted, but Time, and a more dear, yet cruel Remedy, soon disengaged those Cares.  
Melantius, Son to the Marquis de Leganes, just returned from his Studies, (a young Cavalier, Charming as a God, Beautiful to a Wonder, Wise as Apollo; Just, Heroick, Affable and Courteous, Gallant and Engaging; a Face, a Shape, and Wit formed for Love and Success:) (Heaven! I Rave) became my Lover. Then, and not till then, my panting Heart, learned to distinguish a real Passion, from that of an imaginary Engagement. Gods! With what new Fire was my Breast inflamed, and how exquisite was the dear sense of all my Joys and Doubts; and how different from the feeble warmth I felt before? But to Behold him was too great a Bliss: To hear him Speak, or Touch him, was a Heaven of boundless Pleasures, and thrilling Satisfaction, and to imagine more, was not to live.  
Scarce had she ended this last Accent with a Sigh, but Melantius (charmed to an unexpressible degree, fling himself at her Feet, (forgetting all past Jealousies and Fears) throughly convinced of his Mistake, with eager Kisses he devoured her Hand, sighed on her Knees, and panting on her Breast, assoon as e'er his Passion would give leave, with a transported Joy, he burst into these words: Be false! Be vain! if possible you can; still, still I am born to Love and to Adore you.  
Aspasia thus luckily and strangely surprised, could hardly give a credit to her Senses, and it appeared incredible to all, a too substantial Blessing to be real, Dumb with Amazement, silently they gazed, and gave themselves entirely up to Wonder: But Aspasia, whose more particular Interest had involved her in a thousand doubtful Apprehensions, had much ado to recover from the Agitation, either excess of Joy or Fear had driven her to. As soon as she was convinced by the tender Embraces of her Lover, that it was no Illusion, she fain would have assumed a Neglect and Resentment equivolent to the Injuries she had received, but Inclination, and Reflection that he had took her at too critical an advantage to impose an Affectation, she dispensed with Form, and raising him from the Ground, with Eyes all Love and languishing, she said, Rise to my Arms, thou dear, thou cruel Man, and once again receive thy own Aspasia. Melantius' sprung at the Invitation to the Bosom of the Fair, which was panting him a Welcome, where in equal Raptures, they were a long time Clasped, till Aspatia's Curiosity (to know by what prodigious Chance, they had so wonderfully met) roused her. Melantius, after a Compliment to Don Ariosto (whom he saluted by the Name of Canace, giving her to understand he had overheard her Story, and wishing her as quick a turn of Fortune) and some kind notice of Carlo (whom he discovered was the trusty Laura) gave them a punctual and diverting Narrative of his Life, from his quitting Portugal, to that happy Minute.  
By this time a Reconciliation and Intimacy was sealed on all hands, and their Stomaches giving them a Summons, they adjourned to the , referring the Conclusion of Aspatia's Story to the Afternoon; which when she had finished, and Melantius was confirmed his Mistress had been Constant, transported at the News, he pressed returning Home, that they at once might satisfy their Parents, and complete their own Felicity: Aspasia, weary of that way of living, required no persuasions to a thing she already was impatient to put in execution. Don Ariosto, who had determined never to leave Aspasia, was doubly now induced to accompany them to a place, where probably she might retrieve her Lover●; only desiring the Liberty to continue the Habit she was then in, till some fair occasion presented for her to change it.  
Thus being agreed, Melantius took leave for that Night, that he might discharge himself from his Command in the Army, and early the next Morning returned with Montal, whom he ordered with Speed to provide for their Departure; where we will leave them on that Design, and return to Octavio, whom we left almost Expiring.  
Grief, Disappointments, and the Anguish of Octavio's Wound, had reduced him to a violent Favour, which daily increasing to the hazard of his Life, it was thought expedient, to send for a Priest to perform the last good Office: Adrian a Franciscan Friar in the Neighbourhood, a pious and judicious Man, heard his Confession; after which Introduction, he became a constant Visitor; something in Octavio's Person won his Soul, and he resolved with care and diligence to serve him; his Distress and ill Accommodation moved him with Compassion. This Kindness was observed by poor Octavio, who as far as his Ability, made a grateful Return. The good Humour and Sanctity of Father Adrian, had begot so great an Esteem in Octavio, that at Intervals he made him his Confident; and now finding himself grow worse, he trusted him to acquaint the Viscount Bozzolos, where, and under what Circumstance he was, which a long time he had been a Stranger to. Upon the first notice the good old Viscount, fearing the Desolation of his Family, and inevitable Ruin of all his Joys, made no stay for reply, but without consideration of the Fatigue, got all things ready, and the next Day set Sail for Portugal; the Ship put into the Port of Velle-neve for Water, and the Viscount impatient to see Octavio, though 'twas with more trouble to a Man of his Age, yet for more dispatch, resolved to perform the reft of his Journey on that less dangerous Element: He took but the respite of the Night, and the next Morning mounted Horse for Porto, with Alacrity and Speed, he set forward, being attended for twelve Miles together with a cool Breeze that rendered the blushing Cheeks of Aurora very refreshing: About this time he arrived in a pleasant Vale, (where the Duke de Almeyda, and the Marquis de Leganes were a Hunting) the Viscount's Horse starting at the approach Peace, and took care, as much as possible, to conceal my concern from her; but when I found myself oppressed, took Horse, and under pretence of taking the Air, privately indulged my Sorrow.  
In one of these melancholy Humours, as I was moving along the Shore, by the vast Billows that came rolling in upon me, and the mountainous height of the swelling Surges; I raised my Eyes that were fixed on the Ground, to contemplate that Emblem of the impetuous Storm in my Breast, when I perceived a Vessel struggling with the Wind, endeavouring with all her Skill to blow her Passage to the Island of Sicily, whilst the swelling Seas repulsed her Course, and the rapid Waves forced her back as fast: This Contest of the angry Floods, and the Sailor's Task to oppose 'em, took up my Thoughts, till I saw the raging Tempest rush the shattered Vessel on the Sands before me, where Waves after Waves dashed on her Sides with their resistless force, starting the Planks, and leaving Breaches that unsatiably received the Torrents that poured in, till Drunk with the Deluge, she tumbled down, and sunk with her Freight and most of her Men; Despair or Hopes made some attempt to stem the Tempest, others to catch at Planks, but all in vain, none could float to Shoar, but unable to sustain the Conquering Main, sunk in the Gulf to the Stygian Lake; except a few, whose luckier Thoughts had prompted them to secure the Longboat, and with great difficulty saved their Lives.  
I made up to the place where they Landed, being curious to know their Circumstance, and found they were all Sailors; but one who was their Captain, and a Boy about a Year old, very Beautiful and richly Clad; I was strangely taken with the Child, who infinitely resembled mine, and enquired his Birth and Country; but they very readily told me, That therein they could not satisfy me, for they knew not themselves, confessing they were Pirates, and that in their Course towards Portugal, had met with a considerable Prize, and again lost it in the late Wrack; their Child they imagined to be by its Splendour a Nobleman's aboard the Ship they Plundered, but whose they could not tell; for being suddenly separated by a furious Storm, they had not time to secure more than the Child and his Nurse, who either for fear or spite died in half an hour after she was taken; the Child was preserved in hopes of Ransom, or rather Providence designed him for a better Fate.  
The Duke de Almeyda, who had attended with violent Emotions this part of the Story, was no longer able to forbear interrupting him, but with an insupportable Agony, and the most violent Concern in the World, he enquired what Fortune since had attended that instant: The Viscount wondering at his Disturbance, only made answer, I hope he Lives; and began to examine, if he had any Interest in such a Loss? The Duke in Tears briefly related his Misfortunes; his Shipwreck, the Death of his Wife, and loss of his Child; which being ended, he pressed with all violence to know if he had no Mark, no Remnant of his , by which he might be convinced of his Hopes.  
The Viscount having earnestly heard him, replied, How glad am I, and how easily shall I departed this Life, since I leave my Octavio so brave, so good a Father, for I am more than persuaded he is your real Son, look on this Signet; took from off his Neck, wherein a handsome cipher is ingraved, and call it to remembrance if you can.  
No sooner had the Duke surveyed it, but with all the Joy imaginable he cried out, Thou infallible Oracle of Truth, I am now confirmed from these dear Characters which contain the Names of myself and Wife, that it is the same young Frederick wore, when he was Ravished from us; and thou my Guardian Angel, let me know, by what strange Providence you have preserved the first dear Pledge of all my sacred Vows, that in my trembling Arms I may receive the happy Author of my future Peace, and pant upon thy Breast ten thousand Blessings, before my joyful Soul expire with Transport.  
The Viscount much surprised at this Discovery, and much pleased to find he had fostered such a Noble Offspring, proceeded to his Relation.  
Sir, (said he) this Child I Ransomed from the Pirates, with no inconsiderable Sum of Gold, and with an unusual satisfaction bore him Home with me, where having told the whole Adventure, it was looked upon as a particular Regard Heaven had of my Interest, and therefore had thus miraculously sent this Child to propagate my Name and Family, in lieu of that I had lost; my Wife being from some Reasons so possessed by the Physicians, to be passed hopes of more, it seemed plausible to me, and from a wonderful Affection I had took to the Child, I was inclinable to believe it the Decree of Heaven, and immediately with the Consent of my Wife, Adopts him; and from his strange resemblance of my own, named him after the Deceased Octavio: This was managed with all prudent Care and Privacy, and had the good luck never to be suspected, which was a great Satisfaction to all but my Wife, whom it had a quite different Effect on, for the mighty Pleasure she saw us take in the early Virtues of that Infant, racked her with Imaginations of the double Joys she had received from her own; which her Humble, Modest Disposition endeavouring to conceal from me, for want of Redress in time, broke her Heart.  
From hence the Viscount missed not a tittle of Octavio's Life, to that of Friar Adrian's sending for him to a place near Porto, where Melantius left him wounded: I was hasting thither (said he) when I met with this ill accident, which now I bear with less regret, since it has procured me your acquaintance, and discovered so happy a Secret: concluding it was always his Design before he died, to tell Octavio of his obscure Birth, that he might esteem himself doubly engaged to the Interest of the Bozzo●o's, (that had chose him when Fate had reduced him to the station of a Plebeian) as likewise to put him upon some glorious Attempt, to demonstrate to the World, that his Birth was noble, which he ever believed, tho' till that lucky minute could never be convinced of: Notwithstanding (said he) I have made it my search this five and twenty years, I wondered much I ne'er could find it out; for besides the token of this cipher, and his swaddling Clothes, he has that infallible Mark. In haste the Duke did interrupt him there, A Star my Frederick bears upon his Breast. The same has my Octavio, cried the Viscount. Not till this period did the Duke recollect how much this long Discourse might discompose the Viscount, and being throughly convinced, and overjoyed at this Discovery; caressing him with all the Gratitude imaginable he left him to Repose.  
Immediately he ordered his Coach to fetch Octavio, waiting with violent impatience his arrival. By this time Octavio was pretty well recovered, and not hearing from the Viscount, was preparing with all expedition for Italy, when the Duke's Orders arrived: He knew not what to think of the Invitation, but knowing the Duke to be in all respects the most nice in Honour, he could not apprehend a Trick; besides, the Equipage and Address had too good a face of Friendship to be covered with Deceit; he scorns to distrust, and resolves to comply, and in order to that acquaints his Friend Adrian with this Summons, desiring he would accompany him; Adrian readily consented, and they set forward on their Journey. They were no sooner arrived, but the Duke met Octavio with Tears of Joy, telling him, That Providence had put it in his power to compensate a little for the Favours he had received from him, for Heaven, in some small Capacity had made him the happy Instrument of serving his Father, who in his speed to visit him had broke his Leg, and now lay dangerously ill in his House, at whose request he had sent for him, (he feared) to take his last Farewell.  
Octavio returned the Duke the heartiest Thanks Gratitude could frame; and having cursed his Stars and Destiny, for drawing into such Troubles all that he loved or valued, he begged to be conducted to his Father; the Duke himself was his Guide, who drew open the Curtains, and presented him to the Viscount. Octavio soon recalled him to remembrance, tho' his Sickness had much transformed him, and falling on his Knees, implored his Blessing, and then religiously begged Heaven for his Recovery. He desired him to attribute the Misfortunes he had brought to his Relations and Friends, as the heaviest Plague on his own Head, it being the Decree of Heaven, and not within his power to avert.  
The Viscount embraced him with all tenderness, and after a pious Benediction, told him, 'twas easy to forgive him any thing, so great was his Paternal Care and Love; his joy was mighty for his Welfare, which he demonstrated by no common satisfaction.  
But now (said he) prepare, my dear Octavio, to hear a most surprising, unexpected Story; you are no more my Son; turn to the Duke, and pay that due Obedience, to that most glorious Author of your being; but when I am dead and gone, (as soon I ●ear I shall) with grateful thoughts remember how I loved you. This Speech confounded so Octavio, that he began to think his Brain distempered; but the Duke not having patience to wait longer, fell on his Neck, and told him it was true: he sent immediately for the Marquis de Leganes, and Father Adrian, to whom at large he did relate each circumstance the Viscount had told him, as well as that of his own Knowledge; which agreeing so exactly, even to the Mark on his left side, it soon put the reality beyond dispute. This when Octavio heard, and was so well convinced of, with all submission he addressed himself to his new Father, who received him in his Arms with exquisite delight, pouring forth Blessings on him, and confirming him his by the Name of Frederick, which Name for the future he ordered him to assume. Frederick, after this, applied himself to the Viscount, professing all Acknowledgements a generous Soul could show for such unparallelled Favours: He told him he would still esteem him as a Parent, serve and obey him with the Duty of a Son, and to the World declare his noble Usage.  
This News was soon dispersed through Portugal, and every one congratulated the Duke's good Fortune: But poor Frederick's Soul was so oppressed with Sorrow, that all the Satisfaction he received stom this Discovery, was, that since his Birth had doubtful been, he proved a Branch of such a noble Stock, and luckily was hindered from adding to his many Sins, by marrying of his Sister: But the Blood of Alcidas lay so heavy on his Breast, he ne'er had Hopes of any real Comfort, therefore was under much concern, that these Affairs had prevented his design of leading a Monastic Life, which his own Desire and Friar Adrian's Advice did prompt him to, by way of Expiation for the Murder of his Friend. 'Twas with these Hopes he kept the Friar with him, flattering himself, that one day he should have an Opportunity to put in execution what he so much desired.  
This he resolved, but otherwise Fate decreed; for in an Evening, to complete their Joy, (some three months after this Discovery, which minutes he melancholy had passed) entered the Room (where they were all assembled) Melantius us, Aspasia, Canace, (in her Cavaliers Dress) Laura and Montal; which unexpected Guests amazed them all: Their Wonder was so great, that for some time they gazed confusedly upon each other, without the power of moving or of speaking. Aspasia first broke silence, who prostrate at her Father's Feet, with all the Rhetoric that she could use, desired his Pardon: The good Indulgent Duke overflowed with joy to see his Daughter: her Pardon easily upon her Lips he sealed, and raising her from off the ground, cried, Welcome my dear Aspasia. With no less joy the Marquis de Leganes saw and received Melantius, and declared Heaven showed so strong a hand in all these Revolutions, that they were both convinced 'twas so decreed by Providence, to make the Event successful to them all. During this time Canace was all Anxiety, striving to bear an equal part before her Lover, whose Eyes she found more lovely now than ever.  
From their first entrance her Eyes ●●re fixed upon him, and hardly could she stop the violent sallies of her Jealousy, altho' she knew Aspasia was his Sister, which they had been informed of on their Journey, the Fame of so remarkable a thing having rung throughout the Kingdom.  
Curious was the Interview between Frederick and his Sister; his Passion now was nobly turned to Friendship, and he could gaze upon her without love; he confessed the Pain and misery that all-along had waited on that Flame, had sufficiently revenged his Baseness to Canace, whom he still owned the Mistress of his Soul; but Revenge, a rash Vow, and the Contempt she had baffled him with (as he imagined) made him so violent in his last Amour; but now he finds 'twas managed by an unseen Power, who by hidden ways, beyond our comprehension, easily brings the darkest things to light. That power (replied Aspasia) we are all obliged to, who by this Discovery had prevented wondrous Mischief, that must have ensued; and now there remains no more to complete an universal Happiness but the fair, the constant, the virtuous Canace. At this Don Frederick blushed, and sighing said, Tho' I can love sincerely none but her, yet by a direful Imprecation I have rashly made, Gods, that I live to speak it! she never can be mine. Canace, who had heard with pleasure the most part of this Discourse, felt so violent an effect of Passion at this Part, that, unable to repel its force, she fell into a Swoon. All run to the assistance of the young Cavalier, and wondered at the occasion of his sudden Illness. Aspasia thinking it a fair opportunity to discover her, readily reveals both Person and Disease; he was sensibly concerned, the Company joining in her behalf, representing her matchless Love and Constancy, he took her in his Arms, (who was but just revived) and pressing her upon his panting Breast, with a Sigh that almost burst his Heart, he cried, Unless 'tis possible to call my Friend Alcidas from the Grave, I cannot wed Canace.  
Adrain, who till now had been a bare Spectator, thought it high time to act his part; and in order to it, having demanded an attention, pulled off a Beard and false Eyebrows, which hitherto he had wore for a Disguise; and with a Smile took Frederick by one Hand, and Canace by the other, told them, That Heaven, in regard of their mutual Affection, had raised Acidas from the Dead to do that Friendly Office for them. All that knew him formerly were convineed 'twas the same, and was more astonished at this Adventure, than all that had happened to them before; but Frederick still doubtful of his good Fortune, had scarce Faith to credit what he saw, not daring to give way to any Joy, lest he should meet a Disappointment. Alcidas observing this, ran to embrace him, and with a Voice that showed his mighty Joy, (he cried) Doubt not, my der Octavio, for now you hold with is your Arms your Real former Friend Alcidas, who now is throughly satisfied of the Contrition, for that unhappy Deed which Love, Despair, and Jealousy provoked you to; and since I have been the fatal Cause of your Misfortunes, I think it now my part to ask a Pardon. At this Frederick being convinced, tho' with no small wonder received him with all the Joy and Satisfaction that Friendship, Love, or Gratitude could move; here all those nice Punctilios that Emulation, Love, or Honour could inspire, did pass between these Generous, Noble Souls: Thus linked in one another's Arms with strict Embraces, they there confirmed an everlasting Friendship.  
This Transport being over, Alcidas by the Company was pressed to tell the Story of his strange Escape; who (after some Ceremony to the Presence, and a particular Address to Canace, whom he entreated for a Reconciliation) he gratified with this Relation:   

The History of Alcidas.  
AFter the fatal Blow I received under Canace's Window, by the Deluge of Blood that pursued it, I was soon disabled from making any defence, but fell on the Spot, and lay grovelling in my Gore: I had just sense enough left to hear the unhappy Author lament my Fall, who soon after retired, leaving me for Dead. The Corigidore and his Son going their Rounds, perceived the Body, which knowing, and finding that I yet breathed, out of Care for my Preservation, conveyed me to his own House, without raising an Alarm, which would have taken up too much time; they stopped my Blood, and I (after some other Applications) recovered my Senses, and immediately demanded, If they had secured any Body upon suspicion; they answered, None; but excused that Neglect from their Industry to preserve my Life; I easily forgave them, and having understood that none knew of my Misfortune but themselves; I Bribed them to Secrecy, desiring to continue concealed in their House, till I saw what this unlucky Accident would produce, promising, if I was likely to Die, to discover as much as should take the Gild off them; and if I lived to advance their Fortunes: They had formerly been Servants to my Family, and knew my Capacity of performing what I promised: Upon this Score (though under pretence of a powerful Ascendant I had over them) they swore a solemn Secrecy to my Commands, and likewise procured me a Chirurgeon, Skilful and very Faithful; thus I remained secure from suspicion in their House; and was carefully concealed, during the public Search: After which, happily recovering (though not without great difficulty) my Eyes were open to the Follies of the World; I abhorred my extravagant Passion, looking upon it as a vast Crime, being a Breach of our most sacred and solemn Friendship, and the fatal Cause of those many Troubles that ensued. This moral Reflection wrought so effectually with me, that from that moment I resolved to quit the Vanity of this World, and dedicate all my Love to Heaven, and the Remainder of my Days to the Expiation of my ponderous Sins; 'twas some Pleasure to me also when I reflected what a hearty Atonement this would prove for the Wrongs and Injuries I had done to my dear Octavio. I deferred the Execution of my Vow some time, lest some unhappy Wretch might suffer for my Death, were not I there to clear him; but all prospect of a Discovery being over, and the Unfortunate Alcidas almost forgot, I found it a convenient time to Transport myself to Portugal, where I entered myself in a Convent of Franciscans, and in due time took the Habit and Order. Having left a Charge with the Corigidore not to reveal any knowledge of me without my Order, unless the hazard of any Man's Life required the Discovery, which Commands I find he has been very punctual in observing. And thus you have heard the Fate of Alcidas, whom Heaven miraculously has preserved; no more to interpose between your Joys, or be a Plague to any of your Hopes, but placed in a Station, luckily to reconcile all Differences, to unite mutual Love, and cement your reciprocal Contracts for ever.  
The Affability, Bravery, and Zeal wherewith Alcidas delivered this Discourse, and the Pleasure he showed, in hopes to be (after all the Misfortunes he had caused) the happy Instrument to reconcile them, moved every Heart with an extraordinary sense of his Merit, and from the sincere Dictates of Love and Esteem, each addressed him a particular Congratulation; their Joy was unlimited, and there required no Persuasions to make an unanimous, Assent to gratify their Tenderest Wishes; the fierce Sallies of our Heroes youthful Bloods could hardly be restrained within Bounds, nor could the subtlest Artifice conceal the Ladies Transports, whilst their becoming Blushes betrayed their Thoughts, and their dancing Eyes discovered their Impatience for the approaching Happiness; nothing but the Viscount's Illness was an Obstacle to their Bliss, for whose Recovery they waited; but he, the only Unfortunate, having had the Pleasure of hearing this Relation, and the boundless Joy of once again seeing and receiving to his Bosom his dear Canace, on whom he conferred ten thousand Blessings; he had the Satisfaction to departed this Life in Peace, loaden with Honour, and with Years, leaving Frederick and she, the happy Possessors of a vast Inheritance.  
Sorrow for this Loss had something eclipsed the Tranquillity of every Breast, and deferred their Joys, to pay a mournful Tribute to the blessed Memory of the Noble Deceased, living in as much Comfort as the occasion would permit, till a just time was expired for their Grief, when they consented to enter the Lists of Matrimony, and Adrian performed the Nuptial-Rites.  

I.  
Now does each Bridegroom's Face appear  
In Joy, which their warm Hearts express,  
Waiting for That they purchased dear,  
And Sighing, Languish to possess.   

II.  
The trembling Brides with wishing Eyes,  
By equal Love and Tears oppressed,  
Long to secure the Noble Prize,  
But dare not, dare not think the rest.   

III.  
Thus to Compose the cruel Pain,  
That Dying Lovers oft endure,  
When all Endeavour is in vain,  
Hymen effects the mighty Cure.   
The Ceremony was very magnificent, and at Bedtime Adrian confessed, That his Soul was so absolutely resigned to Heaven, that he could see his Mistress in the Arms of his Friend without regret. Where we will leave both Couple, 'tis possible, to Repose.   
The Curtains drawn, the rest must not be known,  
Inquire no more, the time may be your own.  
FINIS.