THE PRINCESS OF FESS: OR, THE AMOURS of the COURT of MOROCCO. A Novel.  
In Two Parts.  
LONDON, Printed for R. Bently, and M. Magnes, in Russel-street, in Covent-Garden, 1682.   

TO HER GRACE The DUCHESS of RICHMOND, etc.  
May it please Your Grace,  
NO sooner was the Princess of Fess ready to appear in public on our English World, but ambitious to Kiss Your Grace's hands, she is come to claim the protection of Your Illustrious Name, not without all imaginable hopes of finding a favourable reception from that Person, whose qualities are observed with such admiration, by those of the first rank in Vivacity of Wit and Profoundness of Judgement, who have Unanimously voted, that it is as easy for the distressed to find a Sanctuary in the Arms of Your Graces generous Safeguard, as it is difficult to be supplied with apt expressions to set forth Your Grace's perfections.  
For my part, Madam, the Knowledge of my own difficiency has been a Sovereign antidote against the vanity of endeavouring such an Herculean labour on my own bottom, and of attempting those impossibilities, and when I have gone to borrow from the most exquisite of the Ancients Panegyrics, I have found all so short from Your Grace's Merits, that looking down with Contempt on those little things which the Modern Writers have used in the setting forth of Your Grace's Virtues, I have avoided the presumption, and rested Contented with the Honour of Subscribing myself,  
May it please Your Grace, Your Grace's most Humble, and most Obedient Servant, P. BELLON   

THE PRINCESS OF FESS.  
PART I.  
THE Arabian Empire has been one of the most flourishing of the World, both by the Duration and the Large Extent of it. It's Principal Seat was in Africa, though it has likewise possessed Large Territories in the other parts of the World. It was not without divers considerable changes, that it Flourished so long, and which have caused its decay; amongst which, there happened an alteration about 150 years since, which for some time did raise their Reputation.  
The Family of the Benimerignis having enjoyed the Throne for a long time, and possessed the Empire with Splendour and Dignity, did thereby restore unto it that Lustre in which it had formerly been under the Almanzor's: But having at last torn one another in pieces through Partialities, they were driven from thence, in the beginning of the late Age, by the Cherifs; which name is assumed by all those that pretend to be of Kin unto Mahomet, and is of great use to those that bear it, to attract the veneration of that People who are the most superstitious of the World.  
The Cherifs having rendered themselves formidable by that Mortal War which they made against the Portugais, and having almost driven them out of Africa, they gained so much the Love of these Nations, that they easily did destroy the Benimerignis, which were then the Masters of Mauritania, and they possessed themselves also of divers other Parts of Africa.  
Mahomet Cherif did reunite all their former Authority in his own Person, and did enjoy, even unto an extreme old Age, one of the greatest Empires of the World. His Successors had easily preserved it, if they had not had more than Foreign Enemies to Combat: But being at variance amongst themselves, that vast Empire was in our time divided into several Parcels. Fess, which had been the chief City of the whole Empire, had its particular Kings, which were not acknowledged by the rest of Africa: Morocco had its Sovereigns; the Kingdoms of Tremeson, of Suss, and of Tarudant, had theirs also, and acknowledged none other: And in a Word, divers Petty Princes did possess all those vast Territories, which in former times yielded obedience but unto one only.  
Bembuca King of Fess, and Gayland Prince of Suss, had rendered themselves formidable to all the others, through that Bloody War which they made against their Neighbours, or through the Jars which they had betwixt themselves, which they always decided by Arms, and the advantage of which did frequently remain on Bembuca's side. Though Bembuca was extreme Cruel towards his Enemies, there never was a more kind Father. The Prince of Fess, and the Princess Alzira, his Children, were so dear unto him, that he would continually have them in his presence, and it was with great difficulty that he would bear their absence some hours of the day in order to their Education: He would never grant any requests but at the prayers of one or the other of them; and most particularly at the recomdations of Alzira, who always employed herself in the behalf of the unfortunate. She had a delicate and an advantageous Shape. Her Eyes were blue and full, her Air was Majestic, mixed with store of Sweetness, and with such insinuating Actions, that it was impossible to behold her without some concern for her Person. Her Beauty, which made a great noise throughout all Africa, had already engaged divers Princes to demand her of her Father, who not being able to resolve on the absence of a Daughter so lovely as his, did always avoid the Marrying of her, under the pretence, that he believed her yet too Young. Gayland would once have Wedded her himself, but there was so little proportion betwixt the Ages of Alzira and of that Prince, who had been Married twice before, that Bembuca had rejected the Proposals with anger; which contempt had contributed very much in the renewing of the War between those two Princes.  
Gayland, who was Childless, had a Young Prince of the House of the Cherifs, a Kinsman of his, brought up at his Court, who had an equal right on the Kingdom of Fess, and on the Principality of Suss. At first he had not taken care of his Education, but to have one day a pretence to drive Bembuca out of the Kingdom of Fess, if at any time he should get an advantage over him by force of Arms. But Ali Hamet (that was the name of the Young Cherif) had something so admirable in his Person, and had rendered himself so complaisant to all Gayland's desires, that he had entirely won his favour. Never had any Prince a more piercing Wit, a Mind more bend unto great Enterprises, and who did more passionately love Arms. Gayland, who did sometimes send him into the Field, was surprised to to hear him discourse on all the particulars thereof, with the same exactness as an experimented Commander would do. He had been brought up in so great an aversion against Bembuca, that he was continually discoursing of the means which he should use to drive away that Usurper. And being very desirous of knowledge, he would take great delight in entertaining of Strangers. A certain English Captive, named Talbor, had so well taken his measures on his Prince's Curiosity, that he was preferred by him in his conversation before all others. Talbor would never speak to him but of Armies, of Mortar-pieces, Grenadoes, Canons, and generally of all those things that the Princes of Europe use in War. He would inform him, that for the easy taking of a place, it was requisite to know both the Strength and Weakness of it, to attaque it at those places which were the eafiest to overcome. Ali Hamet did take a fingular delight in hearing the Slaves reasonings, and in reducing all that he said unto those designs, and to that hatred which he had against Bembuca; he fancied that if he could see the Fortifications of the City of Fess, which was Capital of the Kingdom of that name, he should have the less difficulties in rendering himself Master of it, whenever he should besiege it, as he hoped he should one day. He expressed to Talbor the extreme desire which he had to go in a disguise to Fess, with him, and observe that City. Talbor would have dissuaded him, telling him, that without exposing of himself unto the success of an Enterprise so dangerous as that, it would not be hard to get a Draught of that Place, and to observe all its defects. But Ali Hamet, who did not comprehend how that could be done on paper, gave the Slave to understand, that the business was of such a concern as would invite him to see the reality of it with his own Eyes, though there were never so much danger in the enterprise. Talbor durst not contradict him any longer. The next day Ali Hamet absented himself from his Uncle, under other pretences, and having disguised himself in a mean habit, he set forwards towards Fess, followed by Talbor, and a Marabout, (those are Mahometan Monks, under whose safeguard one may travel with great safety.) After a long march they arrived at Fess, where Ali Hamet did apply himself with a World of diligence to observe the Situation of that City, and those Posts that were fortified. He was walking on the Rampart, when there passed by him a certain kind of Chariot, drawn by Arabian Horses. The Prince having observed some Ladies in it magnificently dressed, had the curiosity to see their Faces, but it was impossible for him to have that satisfaction, by reason of the distance, and that the Ladies had their Backs turned towards him; he contented himself with following them at a distance. Scarce had he made Twenty steps forwards, when he heard a great noise of confused voices, which obliged him to double his pace towards the Chariot. Lions are very common at Fess, and divers persons keep of them: One of the biggest size had broke lose from his Master's House, and was walking quietly on the Rampart, as the Chariot was going by; the Horses were affrighted at it, and set themselves a running, notwithstanding all that the Coachman could do to stop them. The Lion perceiving them to run, failed not to follow. A company of People, who knew the nature of Lions, who equally become furious, when they are pursued, or that they see any thing to fly before them, did cry out at a distance, to have the driver stop his Horses. Mean time the Chariot was overturned, and the Lion was already exercising his fury on the Horses, not one person daring to approach near him; when that Ali Hamet came up, who seeing fear and despair spread over the Lady's Faces, did presently go about to assist them all; and having perceived that there was one which was easily to be distinguished from the rest by her beauty and the magnificency of her dress, he busied himself chief in setting her our of danger. But the Chariot was overturned in such a manner, that it was impossble to assist her, without exposing her to the fury of the Lyon. Ali Hamet in that extremity consulted nothing but his Courage; and having drawn his Scimitar, he attaqued the Lion with great Valour, and with a blow of his Scimitar he wounded him very dangerously on the Head. The Lion roaring with rage, was going to tear in pieces the Person that had wounded him: But Ali Hamet not being daunted, did courageously resist him, and wounded him in so many different places, that he put him out of Combat.  
After this happy success, he drew near unto that Lady who had appeared so beautiful to him, and lent her his Hand to help her out of that place. The Lady, who was already struck with astonishment at the surprising Valour of her Deliverer, had then leisure to admire his good mien, and to return him thanks in terms that were full of acknowledgements. Ali Hamet, who had never seen so beautiful a Person, did at that instant feel some ceratin motions, of which he had been ignorant all his life time. A great number of Persons of all sorts and conditions that came thither, gave Ali Hamet to understand, that she who he had so happily rescued was the Princess of Fess, which obliged him to behold her again with the more attention: But he enjoyed not long that pleasure, for Alzira was in an instant encompassed round with Ladies, who conducted her back to the Palace to consolate Bembuca, who had newly been advertised of that misfortune. Ali Hamet was in so great an admiration at the surprising Beauty of the Princess, that he mixed himself with the Crowd of those that followed, scarce knowing what he was doing. Talbor, who had not had his Eyes off of him, foreseeing that Bembuca would cause a search to be made after that Person that had rendered so great a Service to his Daughter, did advise him to retire in haste, lest he should be known. The Prince was unwilling, as having no mind to distance himself from the charming Alzira, who he hoped to see again. But Talbor did so well represent to him those Evils which he was to fear if Bembuca should come to know him, that his Love, which was but just budding, had not power sufficient to hinder him from following the Counsels of his faithful Slave. They went to rejoin the Marabout, who was staying for them at the City Gates, and got away from Fess with great diligence. Mean time Alzira, who had her Idea filled with her generous Protector, and who did already feel in herself something more than a bare acknowledgement, did conjure her Father to send for him, and give him a recompense suitable to that service which he had so lately rendered her. Bembuca, who desired to know so Valiant a Person, gave orders for a search. His cares were fruitless, no body knew him, and though that all those who had seen the Combat, did speak of him with admiration, there was not one found that knew who he was. New perquisitions were again made, but still with the same success. Mean time there being daily some new circumstance of his Valour mentioned, that business did much contribute to attract the Veneration of the People on Bembuca, and his Family; for he had the subtlety to publish, that their Prophet Mahomet, perceiving a Princess of the Blood of the Cherifs, and his Relation, in so eminent a danger, he had come in Person himself to deliver her, and had disappeared presently after so brave an Action. The People of that Country are very superstitious; that made them give credit to the Story, the noise of which was presently spread far and near, throughout all the Kingdom of Fess, and all the World did speak of it, as of a miracle. What Glory soever it was for the Princess to have been assisted by the pretended Prophet, her Heart had some repugnancy to believe the public opinion; and every time that she did reflect on the good mien of her Deliverer, she did wish, at least, that there were some Mortal that did resemble him; while that her Modesty did oblige her to conceal her resentments. But when she was in private with Balabai (who was one of her Women that she much affected) Balabai made no difficulty to own, that she had rather have owed her life unto some African Prince, than to the Great Mahomet. But Alzira, who had her Mind continually filled with an Idea of the Strangers good mien, did not agree to that, and did so often represent his Picture after so advantageous a manner, that Balabai was obliged to acquiess, that all the Princes of Africa did not come near in good mien unto him that had preserved her life.  
Ali Hamet, who was returned to Suss, did lead so private a life, that all the World were surprised at so sudden a change. Alzira's Beauty, those Words which she had said to him, and a Charming and Majestic Air which he had never seen in any other Person, did continually come into his Mind. He delighted to be alone, that he might freely spend his thoughts on his amiable Princess, and he continually did prefer the Slave Talbor's conversation unto that of the greatest Lords of Suss. What a fatal Journey have we had, said he to him? while I did design to have drawn from thence great advantages against Bembuca, I have lost myself. I love the Princess, I confess it to thee; but what will now become of me? Bembuca, who possesses a Throne that is mine, has doubtless confirmed her in sentiments of hatred and aversion against me; so that I must never hope to make her sensible of my Love, seeing that I cannot so much as see her to inform her of it; she will never hear any thing concerning me, but either to my Glory or to my Shame; the one and the other are dangerous to me, and will equally draw her anger on me; for if I have any advantage over Bembuca, she will doubtless hate the Enemy of her Father; and if I am vanquished, she will have a contempt for a miserable Prince. Talbor did endeavour to comfort him, in representing, that a Peace might be concluded in some short time between the King of Fess and the Prince of Suss; and that he being of the Blood of the Cherifs, it might not be impossible but that he should one day Espouse the Princess of Fess. But Ali Hamet did think his reasons too weak, and too far fetched; he was for more practicable means wherewith to serve his Love. And whereas he looked upon Talbor more as a Friend than a Slave, he did put him in mind, that seeing that he had been engaged in the undertaking of this Voyage, which he durst not call fatal, though he had lost his liberty in it, he ought also to give him some expedients whereby to inform the Princess of his passion. Talbor, who did find him to be deeply in Love, and who knew by experience what strange disturbances Love does cause, did offer to go to Fess, to introduce himself into Bembuca's favour, under pretence of teaching him the use of Fire Balls and Canons, and by those means endeavour if it were possible, to inform the Princess of those sentiments which he had for her. Ali Hamet was so satisfied with that proposition, that he deferred no longer the affranchising of Talbor, thereby to engage him the more to serve him, with the greater affection, towards Alzira. After that he had caused those Passes to be dispatched which were necessary for the security of his Journey, he conjured him with Embraces not to spare either Care or Charges in giving him news of his Princess with all diligence imaginable.  
Talbor being arrived at Fess, did endeavour to introduce himself at Court, giving out, that he had left the Service of a great Prince of Europe to apply himself unto Bembuca's Service, whose Merit and Valour had been made known to him by an English Officer of Tangire, who had Sojourned for some time at Fess. Such a probable discourse did presently flatter Bembuca's Vanity: But those experiments which Talbor made in his presence with Gunpowder, whose different and various effects were unknown to the Moors, did absolutely incline him to take him into his Service. The King desired also that he should make some Fireworks to divert the Princess, who was become very Melancholy of late. Those happy beginnings did make him hope that he should shortly be in a condition to render some Services of importance unto Ali Hamet. Most part of Courtiers love Novelties; divers young Persons of the Court did express their great desires to be acquainted with this Stranger. Talbor answered their Wills with respect, and having observed that the rest of the Gentry had some deference for a young Cavalier named Maucaden, he had the Curiosity to learn on what account; he was informed, that his own merits did much contribute towards the receiving those respects, and that he was also considered as being the Brother to Balabai, the Princess Alzira's Favourite. That last reason did oblige Talbor to show him a great respect. Maucaden did give him in sundry occasions some particular marks of his esteem, and also promised to mention him to his Sister. Which he performed so well, that his good Offices had like to have proved fatal to him: for Balabai, to oblige her Brother, did so highly extol Talbor's good qualities to the Princess, that she desired to have him in her Service. Alzira spoke of it to the King, who granted her that favour, and gave order that Talbor should be made an Eunuque, that he might be in a condition to serve the Princess, because that the Eunuques only have that privilege. All those mean sorts of persons that envy those sorts of Employs which put them in a condition of having great Preferments, and of raising their Friends and Relations, do patiently suffer themselves to be made Eunuques, in order to those great advantages that they hope from thence. Maucaden having learned of his Sister the resolution which the King had taken of making Talbor so, to dispose of him afterwards to the Princess, was willing to be the first that should inform him of his good Fortune, and immediately went to joy him of it. Talbor extremely surprised with a compliment of that nature, and so little expected, did entreat Maucaden to divert that evil from him, confessing that he had rather serve as a Slave in a Galley, than to be a Favourite in the Palace, seeing that there was no getting in by any other means than under those cruel conditions which he had mentioned to him. Maucaden surprzed to hear him talk so, did tax him of Barbariousness, and told him, that though he himself was not sensible of that good which was offered him, he would make him happy even against his Will. But Talbor affrighted at his pretended good Fortune, did so earnestly entreat him to alter that resolution, that Maucaden left him after he had told him, that seeing he had not sufficiency of Ambition or of Courage to bear so great a Fortune, he would tell his Sister that he had been deceived in that good opinion that he had had of him.  
While that Talbor was fearing those fatal effects of his pretended good Fortune, the Prince Ali Hamet impatient in his Love, had taken the Field at the head of a great Body of Horse, much less to gain a Conquest, than to take some Prisoners, that might tell him some news of Alzira: His march did alarm Bembuca, who sent divers Troops to oppose him. Maucaden, who had the command of them, did ask permission to lead Talbor along with him, and by that means he saved him from that resolution which had been taken of making him an Eunuque. He marched long Journeys, and in a short time found himself near unto the Enemy. Ali Hamet, who was wholly taken up with his Love, and the design of taking some few Prisoners, permitted his Troops to refresh themselves in a very commodious Camp, and did march one whole Night at the head of some few Men, to observe the Enemy, or peradventure, to more commodiously make some Prisoners. But the Day Light having surprised him, he perceived that he had advanced too far, and found himself compassed about with divers Squadrons of Enemies, without any possibility of retreat. That great number with which he was surrounded, did not hinder him from defending himself with an unimaginable Valour; yet he was taken, or rather overpowered than vanquished. His Troops having been informed of his misfortune, they suddenly Disbanded themselves, and Maucaden returned to Fess, to conduct thither in Person his Illustrious Prisoner. Talbor did avoid appearing before him, for fear of losing himself, if it were perceived that he had formerly had some Commerce with Ali Hamet. Bembuca, who had always feared lest that Ali Hamet should one Day drive him from the Throne, did learn with all the joy imaginable, that he was made Prisoner. All his Grandees did Compliment him on that good success, Alzira only appeared indifferent in the midst of such an universal joy; she was not sensible of any thing, since the adventure of the Lion, the Idea of her Deliverer had continually remained in her mind; and though she had been persuaded that it was Mahomet who had rendered her that Signal piece of Service, she still pleased herself, in thinking that she would have Loved most passionately some Prince that had been like her Deliverer. These chimerical fancies did continually possess her mind, and Balabai had all the pains imaginable to draw her out of them. Though Bembuca had a mortal hatred against Ali Hamet, he seemingly treated him well, to let the People know, that he honoured the Blood of the Cherifs, even in the person of his Enemy. He Lodged him in his own Palace, and ordered that all the honours which were used towards the Prince his Son, should be rendered unto him also, and likewise desired that Ali Hamet should go make his Reverence to the Queen and Princess. Mean time, Alzira was so oppressed with her continual restlessness of mind, that she entreated her Father to dispense her from being at the Queen's Apartment, when Ali Hamet should go to Visit her. But the whole Court ringing of his good mien with admiration, Balabai had the Curiosity to go to see him. Ali Hamet, who had hoped to see Alzira in the Queen's presence, and who thought himself already but too well recompensed for the loss of his Liberty, did in vain seek her with his Eyes, and stayed them on no Person, not finding out his most Charming Princess. He was ready to ask where she was, but he durst not give himself that satisfaction, for fear of being wanting in respect towards the Queen, or it may be least that the particular interest that he should express for the Princess might be perceived. Those great respects which were rendered to Balabai, did set him in a doubt whether she were not the Princess of Fess; though he was well assured that it was not the same Person that had made him in Love. He retired himself from the Queen's Apartment, in a much more restless mind than he had come thither. Sometimes he imagined that there was no other Princess of Fess than Balibai; and a moment after he would represent to himself all those Features of that lovely Person whom he had delivered from the fury of the Lion, and did very well remember that all the People had treated her as a Princess. Finally, after divers reflections, he believed that he had confounded that amiable Person with the Princess, and that doubtless it was some Woman of hers, whose extreme Beauty had made him mistake her for the Princess. But who ever it were, he did feel so strong a passion for that person, that without troubling himself whether she were a Princess or a Slave, he did Love her with an equal ardour, and did continually think of the means to see her again  
Mean time Balabai, who had looked on Ali Hamet with great attention, had been so charmed with his good mien, that even from that very first sight it was impossible for her to resist a certain tendency, that did engage her to love him almost against her Will. When she came to Alzira, she entertained her with nothing but what did concern Ali Hamet; and as she never did conceal any thing from the Princess, she confessed to her with blushes, that she loved that Prince; and added, that she strongly fancied, that the good mien of her Deliverer, which she so much praised, did come very near to that of Ali Hamet. Alzira, without making any reflection, did at the first chide her, for loving her Father's Enemy. But afterwards believing that Balabai's Love would give her an occasion of retaliating all those Jests and Droleries which her favourite had made on the account of her melancholy, she was not sorry that she should love Ali Hamet.  
Love was the Subject of all their Conversations. Alzira had a most sensible pleasure in frequently speaking of him who had saved her life, and Balabai, whom love had rendered more diligent than ordinarily, did no longer reproach the Princess of that passion which she had for a Chimaera; and Alzira did in her turn make her confess, that there was much more weakness in loving a Man by mere fancy, than in loving one unto whom great obligations are due. Balabai, not opposing herself directly unto the Princess' sentiments, did however insinuate unto her, that a passion in which a heart does engage itself of its proper motion, is much stronger and more certain, than that in which an acknowledgement had some share, seeing that the one was an effect of inclination, while that the other lay at the mercy of divers Accidents. The Princess did not wholly agree on that, and did maintain, that there never could be any love produced by bare acknowledgements; that inclinations, had always a great share in Love, but that persons were willing to deceive themselves, that the heart might have the least shame in owning its own weakness, under pretence that some acknowledgedment did force him to Love.  
Mean time, Talbor had found out a means privately to see Ali Hamet, and to let him know how much he was concerned that he had not been capable of rendering him some Service towards the Princess, who did never see any but Women or Eunuques. The Prince was not surprised at it, seeing that he himself, though lying in the Palace some days since, had never had any opportunity of seeing that Charming person, who had given him so much Love, for he no longer did believe that it was the Princess. He did every day walk in a certain Gallery of the Palace, much less to observe the Curious pieces of panting with which it was adorned, than to think without restraint, on his misfortunes. Balabai having taken notice of it, passed through that Gallery, making as if it were her way to go into the Queen's Apartment. She was very desirous to speak to Ali Hamet, and to ask him his Judgement on those Pictures: But by ill fortune, he understood her not, and he spoke to her again in a Language that she was ignorant of. Those of Fess speak a Language which is particular to themselves, but those of Tarudant and of Suss speak a corrupt Arabic. The Courtiers speak Portugais, and for the most part the African Princes take a particular care to have their Children learn that Language. Balabai, who had proposed to herself this occasion, of being informed whether one day Ali Hamet should become sensible to her Love, was in an extreme anguish to find they understood not one another. Yet as all Lovers are apt to flatter themselves, she did expound to her advantage all the Prince's Civilities, who remained in a comfortless condition for having lost so fair an opportunity of of clearing his doubt, if that that Person who would have spoken to him, were the Princess, and of learning whether that Person whom he had delivered from the Lion's fury were still in the Palace. Balabai remembering that the Princess had learned Portugais from a Slave of that Nation, gave her an account of her late adventure, and did entreat her to serve her as an Interpreter, on this account. Alzira did at first excuse herself from it, expressing an aversion of conversing with her Father's Enemy. But her Favourite did so well represent to her how that she could not confide the secret of her Love unto any other person than to herself, that the Princess being moved with her reasons, and softened with her tears, did consent to give her that mark of complaisancy. But it was on condition that she should not pull up her Veil, and of passing for one of Balabai's Servants. Ali Hamet being returned into the Gallery to contemplate, as he used to do, Balabai did presently repair thither also; accompanied by Alzira, who having cast her Eyes upon the Prince through her Veil, which was of a very thin Stuff, did presently know him for her Deliverer, with whom her imagination was continually prepossessed. Such an unexpected rencontre, did give her so much joy, such an emotion of Spirits, and so many other different motions on the sudden, that she swooned away. Balabai affrighted with seeing her in that condition, did carry her to her Chamber, with the assistance of another Woman. So soon as the Princess was recovered out of her Swoon, she cast her Eyes on all sides, perhaps thinking still to see that dear Object which had caused so sudden a change in her: But she perceiving no body but Balabai, who was weeping on her Bed's side, Alzira, recalling to mind that passion which her favourite had for Ali Hamet, and thinking withal, that the Prince was the same Person who had saved her life, or at least was so much like him, as to awaken in her Heart all the sentiments of Love and acknowledgements she had had for that Generous unknown Person, did no longer look on Balabai but as her Rival, from whom it was requisite that she should conceal her secret for the future; and to that purpose she did persuade her, that her Swooning was an effect of the aversion which she had for that Prince, and of the disturbance which she had been in at the sight of her Father's Enemy. Balabai, who trusted to her Words, durst no longer propose unto her the Office of Interpreter. But Alzira, who had an extreme impatiency of seeing the Prince again, did feign to be concerned at her Favorit's misfortune, and did promise to overcome for her sake all the Antipathy which she had against Ali Hamet, and even to speak kindly to him. Balakai pierced throughly with the Princess' bounty, did make use of that good disposition she was in, and having learned that the Prince had continued in the Gallery, she went thither again with Alzira, who did no longer mind the hiding of her Face, as she had done the first time. Ali Hamet troubled at the loss of so many opportunities of learning some news of that Person which had given him so much Love, did begin to fear of never more seeing that charming Object, when that he perceived Balabai drawing near unto him, accompanied with Alzira, who coming up, did speak Portuguese to him. Ali Hamet was so pleasingly surprised at the second sight of this Beautiful Person, that he remained immovable, all his Senses being so employed on her, that her forgot to give her an answer. Balabai seeing him thus surprised, did fear that he understood not the Portuguese Language. But Alzira having inquired of him if he had never been at Fess before that Maucaden had made him Prisoner; It was no difficult thing for Maucaden to make me a Prisoner, replied the Prince, seeing that another Person had already deprived me of my Liberty, and that I sought after nothing more than the returning into my Chains. That Answer caused some disorder in Alzira, fearing lest he should mean that to Balabai: Mean time, the more she examined him, the more did she confirm herself in her passion, finding in him all the same features of that Person who had made her in Love: But she could not comprehend by what adventure that Prince had happened to be at Fess so opportunely to save her life. She was going to inquire that of him, had not Balabai interrupted their conversation, to learn from Alzira what 'twas he said. She gave her to understand, that the Prince had a most tender Heart, and that he was discoursing concerning the loss of his Liberty, when she interrupted them. Balabai ravished with that answer, did conjure her to continue the conversation. Then did the Princess entreat Ali Hamet to inform her how he had come to lose his Liberty, and who was that Person that had deprived him of it. The Prince, after a sigh, told her, that the desire of acquiring some reputation, by rendering himself Master of the City of Fess, engaged him to examine the Place in a disguise; but that the fates had designed it otherwise. His Modesty had hindered him from saying more, had not the Princess pressed him to continue. What can I say, that you know not better than I do myself? continued Ali Hamet. A roaring Lion, that I had the good Fortune to overcome, gave me the opportunity of saving you, and of losing myself: For from that very moment that I did see you, I loved you with the most real and the strongest passion that ever was. Though this discourse was very conformable unto Alzira's sentiments, she could not forbear blushing, and being discomposed at it. Palabai, who perceived the disorder she was in, had the curiosity to learn the cause. The Princess told her, that Ali Hamet had caused some disturbance in her at the recital which he made her of a Combat which he had had on her Father's Territories. With your favour, inform me, continued the Prince, who it is that I love in you; the knowledge of your condition can neither increase nor diminish my Love, and I even feel an inward joy, at the thoughts that you are not Bembuca's Daughter. Then you would not have loved the Princess of Fess? replied Alzira hastily. Alas! replied the Prince, Love gave me not time to deliberate, when I beheld you; and I had so little power over my passion, that I believe I had loved you, though you had been a Christian Slave. The Princess ravished that she was beloved for her mere Beauty's sake, and without any assistance from her birth in this conquest, was preparing to answer him something very obliging, when an Eunuque came, and told her that the Queen had asked for her. The Prince remained very well satisfied with this conversation, perceiving well by his Mistrisles discourses, that his passion was not displeasing to her. Mean time Gayland had sent to Fess a considerable Person to treat with Bembuca, in order to Ali Hamet's Liberty. Bembuca, who had other designs, did continually propose great difficuties to the conclusion of that Treaty; yet he expressed a very great esteem for Ali Hamet. And whether it was to delude the Vulgar, by his seeming pretences, or that he designed to amuse the Prince, that he might have no distrust of his Artifices, he had him invited to all the diverisements of the Court; and did endeavour by all sorts of means to render his detainment less wearisome. Ali Hamet had passed two Days without seeing of his Mistress, and was fruitlessly busying of himself in finding out an opportunity to speak with her, when that he was entreated by the Prince of Fess, to see the Combat of a furious Lion against a most Savage Bear. Those kind of Spectacles being of very great request amongst the Africans, the Kings of Fess do often use such kinds of divertisments. Ali Hamet hoping that there he might behold that Charming Person who had made him in Love, did greatly rejoice at his going thither. So soon as he was entered the place which was designed him, he looked on all sides, and particularly in that place where the Queen's Maids of Honour were seated, in hopes to find Alzira amongst them, and did begin to be in some disorder at his not seeing of her, when at last he espied her fitting next to the Queen, which very near that place in which he himself was. Alzira, placed thus amongst the Royal Family, did extremely surprise the Prince; and though the Splendour of her Beauty did tarnish the Lustre of her Jewels, yet the magnificent Apparel in which she was dressed, did afford him new Charms. He doubted then no longer, but that she was the Princess of Fess; but he already Loved her with so much passion, that this new knowledge caused no considerable alteration in his mind. The Beasts did fight with an extraordinary fierceness. And while that the Spectators were giving their approbations on this Combat, Ali Hamet had continually his Eyes fixed on the Princess, who did not take off hers from beholding him, but to look down in modesty, and so soon as she raised them up again, they would meet with the Princes, which did speak in their Language a thousand tender and passionate things to her; all which she easily Interpreted, through the great Sympathy which was already between them. The Combat, which had lasted a considerable time, was at an end through the death of those fierce Animals. The two Lovers were obliged to separate themselves soonner than they would have wished. Love, who was the only Subject of all their thoughts, did continually set them on contriving some means of seeing and entertaining one another again, with their Amorous passions. Ali Hamet, did constantly walk in such places of the Palace as he judged that the Princess might pass by, where he would build a thousaind different projects; sometimes he was for going into the Princess' Apartment; a moment after, he would propose to himself the gaining of some Eunuque to his Service with some Liberalities, who might deliver his Letters to Alzira. But so soon as he was going about the executing of either of his projects, he would fall again into his first irresolutions, and finally would resolve to Love her for ever, without undertaking any thing that should displease her. Alzira, mean time, who did continually entertain herself with Balabai on the merit and good mien of Ali Hamet, observed in their conversations that her Rival's passion did increase as oft as she beheld her Lover, which made her once resolve to bring as many obstacles as she could to their interview. But by reason that Balabai was never absent from her, and that she herself had an extreme impatiency to see Ali Hamet, she changed her mind, and chose rather to see her Lover in the presence of her Rival, than to deprive herself any longer of that pleasure. And taking advantage of Balabai's Idle passion, she advised her not to neglect those favourable dispositions in which the Prince was for her sake; giving her to understand, the better to deceive her, that she should no longer be sorry to see her espouse the Prince, seeing that it might contribute towards the peace betwixt Bembuca and Gayland. Balabai being persuaded through the Princess' Bounty, did confide her secrets unto one of those Eunuques that served her, and having engaged him by presents and promises faithfully to serve her, she did propose to the Princess to write to Ali Hamet, to give him notice that he should repair at night unto the Eunuques Chamber, where they might entertain him at leisure. Alzira overjoyed that her Rival had thought on this expedient, did write to him a short Note in Portuguese, to give him notice that he should not in the least scruple to follow that Eunuque, who would conduct him to a place where he should find some Persons that were very desirous to learn whether his conversation was as agreeable as his mien was advantageous. After that every body was retired, the Eunuque did carefully carry that little Note to the Prince, who received it with all the joy imaginable, and deferred no longer to follow the Eunuque, than what served to read the Note. You may easily imagine with what excess of joy Ali Hamet was transported at his entering into the Eunuques Chamber, where the Princess and Balabai did expect him. They were so ashamed at such an Action, that they scarce would lift up their Eyes to look on him. Alzira would have hid her bashfulness under pretence that this Action was under her Rival's name, and she thought that at the most she could but tax herself for having too much of complaisance for her Friend. And Balabai, being authorised by the Princess' presence, did cast on her again all those secret reproaches which her Modesty and her Virtue did make her to conceit. In fine, both the one and the other did think their weakness very pardonable, when they reflected on the good mien of the Prince. Alzira told him in Portuguese, that the assiduous earnestness with which he had looked on her during the Combat of the Lion and the Bear did make her fancy that he had something to say to her— You are not deceived in that, most charming Princess, said Ali Hamet, interrupting her, I had so much joy to be satisfied as to your real Condition, finding that you were born of the Noble Blood of the Cherifs, that I thought myself obliged to you, for that innocent fraud which you had used, in the concealing of your Rank from me. But you had assured me, replied Alzira, that that knowledge should have no considerable advantage over your mind, and that it would produce no alteration in your Love. I do confess to you, replied the Prince, that it had been difficult for me to have added any thing unto that strong passion which I had already for you. Yet I was so surprised to see that a Person of so perfect a Beauty, and of so high a Birth, did not disapprove of my Love, that it has entered me into new engagements; and I was resolved to expose myself unto all sorts of perils to see you again, when the Eunuque brought me the Bill. Alzira, who was in some kind of Confusion at those last Words, would have excused herself from having writ that Note; and having less designs of pleasuring her Rival, than of preserving her Modesty, she told him, without any further reflection, that it was to Balabai, and not to herself, that he was indebted for that kindness. The Prince turning him immediately towards Balabai, and taking her by the hand, he kissed it with some little force, and returned her thanks for the good Office that she had rendered him. Balabai deceived thus by this show of Love that was so like to a reality, and believing that the Princess did really serve her with good success, did after that harken with a great deal of satisfaction to all the tender discourses of the two Lovers, and did facilitate to them at divers times, the means of frequently seeing and entertaining one another. Ali Hamet's long detainment did serve but to make his Merits the better known at the Court of Fess, and to cast new fears and jealousies in Bembuca's mind, who did not doubt but that a Prince that had such singular qualities would one Day set up the interest which he pretended to the Crown of Fess. Those reasons, with that hatred he had for Gayland, did resolve him on Ali Hamet's ruin. He sought divers ways to accomplish it, without the least distrust by any body, fearing lest he should draw on himself the hatred of his People, in spilling the Blood of Mahomet. After divers considerations on this Business, it came in his mind, that Talbor had done wounderful things with Gunpowder, which made him of opinion that he might contrive such a Mine as should make no great noise in the blowing up under the Prince's Chamber, and yet crush him to Death under the ruins of that building, without any distrust that it had been designed, seeing that the use of Gunpowder was yet scarce known at Fess. He proposed his design to Talbor, who not knowing that it was intended against the Prince, did promise the King to make a Mine that should act in the same manner that he desired, and with little or no noise. He went about it very secretly, and when it was ready to spring, he gave the King notice, who was overjoyed at it. The Eve to that Execution Day, Bembuca being only with the Prince of Fess, and the Princess Alzira his Children, he advertised them of his design, that they might not be surprised with the noise that they should hear; and to set forth that important piece of Service, which he designed to render them by Ali Hamets' death, he spoke to them in these terms.  
Our Blessed Prophet, the most intimate Friend to our Great Alla, has always been favourable to me: For after that he had destroyed the Almanzor's, and the Benemerignis, he was pleased to place me on the Throne, preferably unto the Father of Ali Hamet, and of divers others of our Kindred, which the Right of Blood did call unto it before me. He has given me the Victory over mine Enemies, and he has come in his own Person to defend my dear Daughter from the fury of the Lyon. But he did never give me a more sensible token of his protection, than in causing Ali Hamet to fall into my Hands, through the assistance of my Friend Gayland, who is the only Person that might one Day disturb my quiet, and hinder you my Children from succeeding me in the Throne. All these reasons, my dear Children, have made me resolve the destruction of that Enemy. Talbor the Stranger, has by my order contrived a Mine under his Apartment, this Night you will hear it fall, be not concerned at it, and before the People feign to lament the fate of that unhappy Prince.  
Alzira, struck through the Heart at the news of this cruel resolution, was in the greatest trouble imaginable to constrain herself before her Father: Yet she did represent to him, that the Great Mahomet might be offended at such an Action, and that it were much better to leave to that Prophet the care of his own Revenge, than to undertake it himself. But Bembuca not regarding her reasons, made answer, that Mahomet had sufficiently given him to understand his Will in that, by Ali Hamets' Imprisonment. The Princess daring not to reply any further, thought of nothing more but of concealing that disorder she was in. The King, after he had enjoined them silence, did retire, and Alzira returned into her Apartment overcome with grief and sorrow. But yet she took Ali Hamet's interests in hand, without abandoning of herself unto a fruitless despair, and did resolve to hazard all, for the safety of her Lover; wherefore under some other pretences, she caused an Eunuques dress to be brought to her, and having subtly rid herself of those Persons that were about her, she changed her habit, and went into Ali Haemet's Apartment. The Prince, who presently knew her face, was very much surprised at this disguise: The Princess, who did blush to see herself in that condition, did entreat him to suspend all the Judgements that an Action seemingly so rash might oblige him to make of her. I confess, continued she, that I have not had leisure, to make reflections, a too pressing interest has made me act, and I have not waved to expose myself to Ruin, when your Life was concerned. The Prince greatly moved at his Mistress' bounties, cast himself at her feet, and would have spoken tender and passionate things to her, as he used to do. But, Lose no time, replied Alzira, interrupting him, my Father has resolved your ruin, and by Morning this great Apartment will be but Rubbish, under which you are to perish; you must instantly retire, and return into your Territories, where I flatter myself, that for Love of me, you will endeavour a Peace, and that you will not fail to send me of your news so soon as arrived. She with that gave him a Pigeon, which she had carefully brought up, and assured him that if he said it with a certain Seed which she named, it would be easy for them frequently to Write to one another; because that that kind of Pigeon did never fail of returning into those places where they have already been fed; which thing is so well known, that they are made use of as swift Posts in divers places of Africa. Ali Hamet, scarce minding the danger that he was threatened with, had much to do to resolve to departed, and to distance himself from his Princess. But Alzira did so earnestly press him to think on his safety for her sake, seeing that he neglected it on his own account, that at last he went out, followed by the disguised Alzira, who had already taken all the necessary measures to prevent all obstacles. She did accompany him unto the last Gate of the Palace, and having not the power to take leave of him, she suddenly stole from his sight, taking the way to her Apartment, very much afflicted at the Prince's departure, though well satisfied that she had saved her Lover's life. She was scarce got into her Chamber, when that the Mine was sprung, with that success that Talbor had promised. All the Palace was alarmed at it, the Princess' Women came about her in a great disorder, and at every moment there came into her Chamber some Eunuque which brought her some new circumstance of that extraordinary event. The confusion was so great, that it was long before the truth of what had passed was known. At last the Princess was assured that Ali Hamet was the only considerable Person that had perished under the Ruins of that Fabriek. There were some also that positively said they had seen his Body shattered in a thousand pieces. Though Alzira had been prepared against all those discourses, she was much concerned, fearing lest that peradventure the Prince might have returned into his apartment. But those disturbances of mind were over, when the King sent her word of the misfortune that had happened, and of the fruitless pains that had been already taken to unbury the Body of Ali Hamet, which had not yet been found. Balabai came in that instant to the Princess, and in her presence did yield unto all the effects that so great a sorrow could inspire into a most afflicted Person. Alzira did endeavour to comfort her, and lest that those disorders that she was in should be construto her disadvantage, she discreetly gave out, that a Maid Servant whom Balabai had loved very well had perished under the Ruins of that Apartment, in which she lay. Mean time Bembuca, who applauded himself for the happy success of his design, and who made use of all the cautiousness imaginable to prevent that he should ever be suspected of having any Hand in Ali Hamets' misfortune, who he thought certainly dead, gave out orders to have Talbor convyed to the next Seaport, that he might be sent back to Tangire, which belongs to the English. Thus every one in Fess did believe that this great accident had happened through the fault of those Architects that had had the ordering of that building. After divers fruitless cares to distinguish the Body of Ali Hamet from others, the King perceiving that all those that were found involved in the Ruins were so shattered that it was impossible scarce to know one, he, to impose the more on the People, ordered that a Body, which he pretended to be that of Ali Hamet, should be Imbalmed; after which he had all things got in a readiness for the celebration of his Funeral Rites after the same manner as they used to be rendered unto the Princes of the Blood of the Cherifs.  
Alzira sympathising with Balabai in her afflictions, did not omit any thing that might give her comfort. She was even on the point of letting her know that the Prince was not dead; but well foreseeing that the Joy of a Rival would cause her more trouble than would the sorrow of a Friend, the interest of her affections did always dissuade her from giving so much satisfaction to that afflicted Lover. Alas! would Balabai say, you love but a mere Chimaera, whose single remembrance affords you both Joy and Delight; judge by that of the sorrow which I do feel in the loss of a Prince so accomplished as was the Young Cherif, who had infused a passion in me from the very first time that I had seen him, and who already had such advantageous thoughts of me, as you are sensible of. The Princess not answering positively unto her discourses, was endeavouring to comfort her, when that the King sent her Word, that at last the Body of the unfortunate Ali Hamet had been taken up, and that it was requisite that she should prepare herself to assist the the next Day at those magnificent Funerals which he had ordered should be performed for him. The name of Ali Hamet did renew all Balabai's sorrows, and Alzira was no longer in a condition to assist her; she was so troubled herself with hearing this cruel news, that she remained without senseor motion, not being able to believe that it was true, neither having the power of satisfying herself on a thing which she so feared; and apprehending also lest that her Favourite should take notice of the concern which she took in the Prince's interest. Balabai shed tears, while that Alzira was making a thousand reflections: Now she feared that the Prince might have returned into his Chamber, a moment after she would please herself with the thoughts of his departure, remembering that she had accompanied him unto the farthest Gate of the Palace, neither could she see any likely hood, that that Body which was talked of could be his. Yet all her reason could not settle her alarmed Love, she was obliged to give out, that she was Sick, taking to her Bed, under that pretence to conceal from every Body the disorders that she was in. The King, who did most tenderly Love his Daughter, was extremely afflicted at her Sickness, and did not appear at Ali Hamet's Funerals as he had designed: He would go every moment to the Princess, and so soon as he was returned from thence, he would send thither the Prince his Son. The Prince having one Day observed, that Balabai was weeping by the Princess, he was moved with a tender compassion at the tears of so Beautiful a Person, and endeavouring to consolate her, compassion draw tears from him also, which caused an effect somewhat extraordinary. For Balabai being surprised with seeing the Prince to weep, was willing to make Alzira observe her Brothers good Nature; but the Prince interrupted her, and assured her, that his Sister had no share in those tears, which compassion had forced from him at the sight of the sorrow of so Beautiful a Person as she herself was. That answer caused Balabai to blush, not expecting it; and how great soever her sorrow was, she was somewhat moved with that flattery, which made her return the Prince thanks for his Bounty. Alzira, who maugre all her disturbance of Mind, did still flatter herself with the hopes that her Lover was not dead, was not displeased that the Prince her Brother had spoken so obligingly to her Favourite, and did resolve to advantage herself by that good disposition, in making Balabai wholly to forget Ali Hamet. So that at all times that her sorrows did give her some intervals, she would not lose any occasion to mention the Beauty of Balabai to her Brother, and of entertaining her with the great advantages that a Person who should have the good Fortune to please the Prince, might expect. The Prince would hearken to her with pleasure, and Balabai would confess, that if after the loss which she had so lately had, she could be capable of being moved with any thing, the Prince should not be indifferent to her. Alzira, who would not appear till she had received news from her Love, did pass many Days without stirring forth of her Chamber; which gave means to the Prince, who did hourly visit her, frequently to entertain Balabai. He found her much to his mind, and those interviews did greatly increase that esteem which he already had for her. There being no great distance between that kind Sentiment, and Love, the Prince stayed not long before he passionately loved her. Balabai, who had at the first harkened unto the Prince but through a complaysancy to Alzira, had much to do to suffer him to speak of Love; she had resolved never to love any thing more after the unhappy success of her first Amours; the thoughts of her dead Lover, did contribute to confirm her in that resolution, being prepossesed, that only Ali Hamet was worthy of being beloved.  
While that the Prince of Fess was endeavouring to make her alter her mind, the Court of Suss was in the extremest affliction imaginable. The Prince Gayland had received news from all parts, of the death of his Kinsman Ali Hamet; the certain knowledge which he had of Bembuca's wicked Nature, did make him think that Ali Hamet's death had been designed, which obliged him to a War, and to exhort all his Subjects to do their utmost, to revenge such a perfidious Action. The Young Cherif being highly regretted, every one did put himself in a posture of revenging his death, and Gayland had soon found himself at the head of a numerous Army, had not Ali Hamet returned, which did most pleasingly surprise the Court. His Uncle gave him a thousand marks of his affection and tenderness. There was no other talk but of divertisements, and every one did set forwards in expressing the joy which they received by the Prince's Arrival. Ali Hamet bearing in mind how that his Mistress had recommended to him, the disposing of things towards a Peace, did highly praise to his Uncle all the good Offices which he had received from Bembuca, and did persuade him, the better to serve his Princess, that Bembuca not being able to resist the instances of his Council, who did continually inspire him to rid his Hand of so dangerous an Enemy, he had the Generosity to give him notice of it, and deceiving all the Ministers of State, in secretly conveying him out of the Palace unknown to all. Gayland, who could not know Bembuca by all those Actions of Generosity, was in a strange surprisal at the Prince's recital, and not being able to comprehend how that the King of Fess should be so strangely changed, he judged that nothing but Ali Hamet's merit could work so great a Miracle.  
The Prince having thus disposed his Uncle's mind to Peace, thought of nothing more but of giving his Princess some news of himself. He had with great care preserved that Pigeon which she had given him, and having observed all that she had prescribed him as to the feeding of it, to oblige his return, he let him go, after he had fastened to his Feet this following Letter.  
ALLA, and his Great Prophet, have conducted me to Suss, where I have found my Uncle preparing himself to revenge my death; the noise of which had already reached so far. My return has caused an universal joy, I am the only Person that cannot rejoice, when I think that I am at an hundred Leagues distance from that which I love. Why would you not let me die when you could not save me without sending me from you? I am so well taught to despise death, that it cannot startle me at any time: But to live without you, that only thought is more horrid to me, than all the most Cruel deaths. Judge of the Power which you have over me, seeing that notwithstanding all the reasons which I have to have Bembuca, I have told my Uncle, that I own him a thousand Obligations, that he had frequently opposed himself against his Ministers of State who did advise him to destroy me, and that, finally, not being able to defend himself any longer from giving them his consent, he caused me to be conveyed secretly out of the Palace, and after that, had deceived his whole Court in publishing that I was dead. I hope that a Peace will be in a short time concluded. Mean time send me some news from you, and be persuaded that it is the only joy that I can receive in the condition that I find myself at present  
The Pigeon being arrived into the Princess' Closet, she read her Lover's Letter with all the pleasure imaginable; her joy was so visible on her Face, that it had been impossible for her to have concealed it. The Prince and Balabai having afterwards taken notice of it, she told them that her joy did proceed from that her Sickness had given an occasion to a good intelligence between two Persons which were very dear unto her: For Balabai, who was of the humour of most part of Women, had at last accustomed herself unto the Prince's passionate discourses. The two Lovers thought themselves obliged unto her for her complaisancy, and if at any time she retired herself in private, to read over again that Letter which Ali Hamet had sent her, they judged that she did it expressly to favour their Amours. Mean time she had an extreme care of her Pigeon, which she sent back a little while after, with the following Answer, having first left him a whole Day without Food.  
YOU have restored me to life again, in informing me that yours was in safety. For, notwithstanding all the assurance which I had of your going out of the Palace, I was so troubled to hear so many different circumstances of your death, that my alarmed heart did begin to fear lest I had been deceived, when that I thought you gone. I have a thousand times revolved in my mind all that did pass at that cruel departure, and a thousand times I have doubted if I did not deceive myself. I was so tired with all the ridiculous stories which were made on your death, that I have been on the very point of undeceiving all the World; having almost less repugnancy against the discovering of my love, than at the hearing that you were no more. I am obliged to you for that noble deceit that you have put upon your Uncle. I hope that the King will be moved at so generous a proceeding, and that at last he will open his Eyes to do justice to your merits, or rather that he will a second time give his Daughter her Life, in uniting me to you. Alla grant it; and let his intimate Friend, our Great Prophet, Crown you with prosperity, and preserve you for your Alzira.  
The End of the first Part.   

THE PRINCESS OF FESS.  
PART II.  
GAYLAND, who had observed that his Kinsman since his return was much more Melancholy than usual, did in vain endeavour to guests at the cause thereof. Bembuca's Generosity he did very much distrust, and though he was but too certain of the Prince's virtue, to fear any private intelligence between him and the King of Fess, all together did cause some disturbances in his Mind. He was one Day walking with his Nephew on a Terrace, with a design cunningly to pierce into the reasons of his sadness, when that Ali Hamet did perceive the Pigeon which was bringing to him Alzira's answer. A joy did so surprise him, that without thinking that he was with his Sovereign, he abrubtly left him, and went up into his apartment, to learn some news of his Mistress. This odd kind of proceeding raised new doubts in Gayland, who had very well observed that that Pigeon's arrival had caused some disorder in his Nephew. And whereas it is a very ordinary thing in that Country to make use of Pigeons to send Letters by; he no longer doubted but that Ali Hamet had received some Letters from Bembuca. All those things that had preceded did confirm him in his doubts, which made him resolve to inform himself at what rate soever. The African Princes for the most part, are very curious in Falconry. Gayland, who had all kind of Falcons, made choice of a cast of the best Hawks, he ordered that they should not be fed of one whole Day, and the next Day he had them kept by two Falconers on the avenues of Ali Hamet's Apartment, with order to let them fly, so soon as they should see a Pigeon go from thence. The Prince failed not the next Morning to write a very tender Letter to his Princess, which he entrusted to his faithful Messenger. The Falcons having perceived it setting forth, did presently follow that innocent Courier, and being pressed with hunger, they devoured him in an instant. The Men took up the Letter, and carried it to Gayland, who found it to be a most passionate writing: He guest by those terms in which it was penned, that the Prince was beloved by Alzira, and compatising in his Nephew's love, he was sorry for what he had done, and did no longer doubt, but that the Princess had obtained from her Father, both the Life and the Liberty of her Lover. Ali Hamet being extremely dear unto him, and besides he being weary with making War, he resolved to contribute towards that Marriage, and to surprise his Nephew, in informing him of his resolution. The same Day he called him in private, and after that he had expressed much kindness towards him, he told him, that he had a design to marry him, and that he would no longer expose him unto the perilous hazard of Wars, till he had given him some Successors. Ali Hamet not doubting but that his Uncle had cast his Eyes on some of his Subjects in order to his Marriage, was so affrighted at that proposition, that he remained speechless. Gayland did press him to speak, and to declare his mind to him without constraint. The Prince grown more bold, did assure him, that Glory only was his whole ambition, further saying, that it would be shameful for him to Marry before he had wiped off the shame of his Prison by some signal action. I had resolved, replied Gayland, to send some magnificent presents unto the King of Fess, to return him thanks for having set you at liberty, and I was in a mind at the same time to have the Princess his Daughter asked in Marriage for you, but since I see that you have some aversion against it— The Princess Alzira, Sir! replied Ali Hamet, surprisingly. Yes, Bembuca's Daughter, continued Gayland; but because that I will not compel you to any thing, I will not think any longer on it: Ah! my Lord, replied Ali Hamet, are not you my Sovereign? and are you to consult my Will in any thing that concerns the good of your People? It is not with you, replied Gayland, that I will make use of my Sovereign rights; and seeing that it is Glory only which takes up all your ambition, I will permit you to follow that noble design. Saying of this, he retired, and gave not time to the Prince to answer him. Yet he omitted not sending an Ambassador secretly, loaden with costly presents, with order to present them to Bembuca, and to demand Alzira of him, for Ali Hamet, who mean time was under most cruel perplexities, for having lost so favourable an occasion of engaging his Uncle to concern himself in his Marriage. Sometimes he was for an entire declaration of his Love, a moment after, he would alter her mind, fearing lest that Gayland should ill resent his designs on the Princess of Fess, without his consent. While that he was in those agitations, Alzira was labouring with an extreme application to render happy her Brother and Balabai, who did most passionately love one another: she had already spoken to the King, in favour of those two Lovers, foreseeing that one Day she might stand in need of a like complaisance from them; or peradventure that she did take that care to recompense Balabai in some measure for the loss of Ali Hamet. It being customary for the African Princes to Espouse those of their own Subjects that they best like, Bembuca made no opposition unto the two Lovers happiness, considering that this Marriage would preserve an union in his Family. Balabai's Relations, who were very considerable at the Court of Fess, did not omit any thing in which they might express their joy, in public rejoicing; and the Prince, who was very gallant, having wished that there might be some Tilting, caused it to be published throughout all the Cities of the Kingdom of Fess and Morocco. All things were getting in readiness against those great Festivals, when that Gayland's Ambassador arrived there. Bembuca, who was the most subtle of all Men, was extremely surprised at the Magnificent presents, and much more at the Ambassadors demands, being fully persuaded, that Ali Hamet was dead; which made him think that Gayland, who had no Successor, did peradventure fear some revolt in his Dominions, and that he designed to impose on his People, under pretence of this marriage, in concealing from them the Death of his Nephew. Those reflections did oblige him to answer this piece of craft by another, and to say to the Ambassador, that with joy he did yield the Princess unto his Master's Nephew; but whereas it was the belief of the whole Court that Ali Hamet was not living, it was necessary that that Prince should appear in Person in the City Fess, to undeceive the World, lest that otherwise his Council and People should oppose themselves unto that imaginary Marriage. Bembuca having given this Answer, was impatient to inform his Children thereof, and more particularly Alzira, who had so great an interest in the business. The Princess, being surprised with her Father's discourse, did perceive that her Lover had acted according to her intentions, and being desirous to anticipate the King's designs, she told him, with an affected modesty, that she knew her duty, and that she should obey him without repugnancy. It will not be hard for you to do so on this occasion, replied the King, since that we all know that Ali Hamet is dead. But what if he should come, Sir, replied the Princess? would you keep your word? That cannot be, replied the King; but should he return, I should assure myself better of his death, in causing him to perish before my Eyes. Alzira, affrighted at those last Words, What, Sir, said she, with tears in her Eyes, you would then make me be the pretence under which you would make an unfortunate Prince of the race of the Cherifs to perish? May the great Alla make me die first. In ending these Words, she cast herself at his Feet, and did protest, that she would not rise again, till he had first promised her that he would offer no wrong unto Ali Hamet, if he should chance to return, seeing that it was not impossible but that the Prophet Mahomet might have wrought a Miracle to preserve a Prince of his own Blood. Bembuca admiring his Daughter's Credulity, caused her to rise, and granted her request, being prepossessed with this Prince's death.  
Gayland's Ambassador, who according to the custom of the Country, had taken along with him divers Pigeons, wherewith to give notice to his Prince of the good success of his Negotiation, gave him an account of Bembuca's Answer, and advertised him also of the Princess of Fess his Marriage, and of the famous Tilting which was preparing to that purpose. So soon as Gayland did receive that Letter he passed into Ali Hamet's Apartment, and after that he had told him that he had newly rereived Letters from Fess, he told him that Bembuca had Married both his Children, that there were great Festivals preparing for the Marriage of the Prince with Balabai, which was already consummated, and would suddenly be followed with that of Alzira with another Prince, unto whom her Father has promised her. How! my Lord, interrupted Ali Hamet, news are sent you that Bembuca is Marrying of the Princess Alzira? Her Father has already passed his Word for it, replied Gayland, (giving his Ambassadors Letters;) you will be better informed of this by this Letter which you may read, while I am going to dispatch a business of consequence. The Prince remained so astonisted at this cruel news, that he had scarce so much strength left him as would serve to open the Letter which his Uncle had given him. In an instant a thousand violent and passionate designs came in his head, having no other thoughts but of sacrificing that happy Rival unto his Love. That hatred which he already felt against him, did set him in an impatient desire to read the Letter, to learn his name. Never was there a surprise like unto that of Ali Hamet, when reading the Letter, he found the great Obligations which he had to his Uncle; he read over the Letter divers times, not easily believing a good Fortune so little expected, and though he knew very well that Bembuca did design to draw him to the Court of Fess, to rid himself of him by some new artifice, he took such delight in thinking that in some short time he should be permitted to behold again his most dear Princess with the King's consent, and that of his Uncle, that he did cast aside all those other considerations that might give him any distrust of Bembuca's designs. Gayland, who had purposely absented himself to let him relish at ease all that joy which he judged that those happy news would afford him, did return into Ali Hamet's Chamber, who presently went to embrace his Knees so soon as he did see him appear, expressing in his actions, and by the disorder of his discourses, how sensible he was of this new Obligation. He confessed to him, that he was sure of Alzira's heart, and then humbly entreated him that he would be pleased to give him leave to departed with all diligence, that he might be at the Tilting that was preparing at Fess, to have the satisfaction of breaking a Lance or two there, in favour of his dear Princess. Gayland gave his consent, and the time pressing, the next Day he sent back the same Pigeon which was come from Fess, with a Letter which he writ to his Ambassador, to order him him to get in readiness, as secretly as he could possible, all such things as the Prince should stand in need of for the Tilting. Though that the Ambassador did think it impossible for the Prince to come in time for the Tilting, yet he performed exactly his Commission. Mean time Ali Hamet, unto whom love did facilitate all things, made such diligence, that he rendered himself at Fess before the Tilting was ended. He hastily did Arm himself, and being mounted on an Arabian Horse, he presented himself at the Bariers at the same time that the Prince of Fess, who was very dexterious at those kind of exercises, had already overcome divers brave Cavaliers, and was going to receive the Prize from his far Balabai's hands; only Maucaden, who might have disputed it with him, declining the running against him. This Prince, ambitious of his Conquests, was demanding in a haughty accent whether there was any person more that would be born down, or unseated, when that Ali Hamet made sign with his hand to give him notice that he would broke a Lance with him. The Prince of Fess, being impatient to punish that presumptuous Person, did presently set himself in a readiness to give him satisfaction. The Equipage of the unknown Person being very magnificent, did oblige all Persons, and especially the Ladies, to cast their Eyes on him. He was so well on Horse, and he did handle his Lance with so good a Grace, that it was presently judged that he might give the Prince some work. Yet were not the opinions divided, and after those proofs that the Prince had already given of his valour, and dexterity, no body did doubt but that he would gain the advantage likewise over the stranger. The signal being given, they both set forth with such a swiftness as did show the impatiency which they both had to join one another. At this first encounter they disordered each other with almost an equal advantage, which did increase that good opinion that every one had already for the Stranger. The Prince of Fess being fretted at the resistance that his concurrent had made, did not stay long without setting forth the second time. Ali Hamet went off also, and did justle the Prince of Fess with so much strength, that having caused him to quit his stirrups, he bore him down. The Prince's fall did alarm all the Spectators. The Ladies were already making of imprecations against this Stranger, when that the Prince blaming of their injustice, let them know that he had received no hurt; and he himself did there admire the strength and dexterity of his Conqueror. The brave Maucaden, who through respect had waved running against the Prince of Fess, did entreat the King that he might have leave to revenge him, thinking that after he had overcome two Cavaliers of Morcco, who had the reputation of being the most valiant of all Africa, that this Stranger would have much to do to resist him. The great attention with which the Ladies did look on Ali Hamet, made them to take notice of his Shield, on which there was pictured a Cavalier that was overcoming of a Lion with one hand, and was holding forth his other hand to a Lady, with certain Arabic Words, which signified, In saving her, I my own self have lost. No body did comprehend the sense of those Words. Alzira, who did find them very conformable unto her Lover's adventure, did observe him more carefully than she had done before; and the more that she examined him, the more did she find his port, shape, and good mien to be like Ali Hamet's. Then this unknown Persons Valour did the more confirm him in her thoughts: But when she did reflect on Ali Hamet's hundred Leagues distance from thence, and that the just had been but very lately published, she did fear that her love did deceive her, seeing it was impossible that her Lover could be advertised of that Festival and got thither in so short a time. While that the Princess was in those agitations of Spirit, the brave Stranger did increase that admiration which was already had for him, by the advantage which he had over Maucaden. Balabai, who was to give the Prize appointed for the Conqueror, did entreat the King to dispense her from that ceremony, expressing some repugnancy against recompensing of that Person who had deprived the Prince and her Brother of the Victory. The King unwilling to constrain her, did appoint the Princess Alzira for the presenting of the Prize to the Victor, who was already alighted, and was drawn near to the King's Scaffold; every body had an extreme desire to know him, and he was earnestly pressed to pull off his head piece, as is the custom; but the stranger did still put it off, till being called by the Princess to receive the Prize which he had so well merited, she required him to discover his Face. Ali Hamet had not the power to refuse his Mistress: He presented himself bare headed to her, and did receive from her fair hands a Scimitar studded with precious Stones. It is easy to imagine how much the sight of a Person that was thought dead, did surprise the whole Court. Balabai remembering a Face which had been so agreeable to her, was so surprzed at it, that she fell into a swoon after she had given a great shriek. Alzira, who notwithstanding all the reasonings which she had framed within herself, did still retain a secret foreknowledge that this brave Stranger could be none other than Ali Hamet, was agitated with a thousand confused notions, joy fear, love, did all at once move in her Soul, but the surprise that every one was in, did cause that the less notice was taken of hers. The King more surprised than all the rest, did however constrain himself, and expressed a great many civilities towards the Prince, who said as he came up to him, Sir, here are I once again your Prisoner. The King assured him that he was free, and unwilling to enter into any kind of clear understanding, in presence of so numerous a company, he had him to the Palace, where having commanded all Persons to retire, he inquired of him by what Miracle he had escaped death. Alzira, who was in most cruel perplexities on her Lover's behalf, did leave Balabai under her women's care, and ran into her Father's Chamber, she conjured him to remember the promise that he had made her of not attempting any thing against the life of Ali Hamet. The King angry at a transport so unsuitable to the modesty of his Daughter's sex, did give her a kind of angry answer. Alzira affrighted at the King's anger; It is no longer time to dissemble, Sir, said she to him, our Great Prophet has already appeared unto me divers times, and has threatened me with a long continuance of dreadful evils, if I did not Marry this Prince. Bembuca astonished at Alzira's boldness, and discourse, was at a stand what to answer her, when that Ali Hamet taking advantage of his disorder, did assure him that Mahomet had warned him to go forth of that place where he was in danger of being destroyed, that he himself had led him out of the Palace, giving him great assurances, that he should ere long be happy with a Princess of the Blood of the Cherifs, that he was not returned to Fess but by order of that Prophet, and finally, that he did hope that having obeyed unto all that had been prescribed to him, Mahomet would take care of the rest.  
Bembuca, who was a Person that did never give credit to Miracles, any further than they agreed with his interests, gave the two Lovers to understand that it would be a great presumption to oppose the Decrees of Heaven: But that for his part, he durst not give his consent unto that Marriage, until the Prophet had first given him to understand his pleasure therein: Alzira was going to reply, but the King did interrupt her, saying, that after so much fatigue, Ali Hamet might stand in need of rest, and under that pretence, he gave order to one of his Officers, to conduct him to a certain Apartment which he named. They were thus all three separated. The King extremely surprised, Ali Hamet passionately enamoured, and the Princess divided between hope and fear. So soon as she was returned into her Chamber, she passed into Balabai's, where she found the Prince of Fess, who who was in vain tormenting himself to cheer up his Wife, who was become very much out of humour ever since her recovery from her swoon. The Prince entreated his Sifter to make use of all the power that she had over Balabai, to oblige her to change her humour. Alzira, who was wholly taken up with her Love, did promise to her Brother to do what he desired, and at the same time did let him know that it concerned his honour to take a special care of Ali Hamet, and above all to prevent that the King, through his Councils advice, should take any violent resolutions against that generous Prince. Balabai concealing the disorders of her heart, did also entreat the Prince to be near the King to discover his design, and did pretend to do out of complaisance to Alzira, that which she did through that interest which she had in the person of Ali Hamet.  
The Prince, who had no thoughts but to please those two Persons that were so dear unto him, went forth to meet with the King. Balabai, finding herself alone with Alzira, let fall those tears which with much ado she had kept in, in the Prince's presence. Sympathize, dearest Princess, said she to her, with me in the most sensible sorrow that ever was felt. You know better than any one else, the strong passion which I had for Ali Hamet, even from the very first moment that I did see him; we have thought him dead, and you may remember how sensible I was of his loss. All my affliction did not take away those few charms which have caused my misfortune. The Prince of Fess found me to his liking, you had the goodness to speak to me in his behalf, my vanity rather than my love did make me condescend to his entreaties; I have given him my hand, and my faith, being prepossessed that Ali Hamet was no longer living. Mean time the Heavens have taken care to preserve a life so precious to me, you have seen him as well as I, all my senses have withdrawn themselves in beholding that dear Object, my heart ashamed of its treachery hath abandoned me, and it seems as if I had returned from my Swoon but to be the more sensible of my misfortunes; for what shall become of me, if I cannot lay aside my affections, nor defend myself of those engagements that I am concerned in with the Prince of Fess? In this extremity, I expect no succour but from you, most dear Princess, you ever did take pity of my weakness, with your favour continue your bounty to me in this occasion, and give me some comfortable advice. Counsels are useless, replied Alzira coldly, when that our duty does prescribe us what we ought to do; you know yours, follow it, that is all the Counsel that can be given you. Alzira not being able to maintain any longer a Conference that wounded her Love, would have retired in ending these Words; but Balabai, who was melting into tears, being startled at so harsh an answer, cast herself about the Princess' neck, entreating her not to abandon her, and to remember that she had always honoured her with her affection. I must confess to you, replied Alzira, that your ingratitude does surprise me, your Prince forgetting what you are, does make choice of you to raise you to an honour unto which you could never have pretended. The King at my request consents to it, for which you have returned me thanks; and now through an unruly passion, you are ask of me advices against my own Brother, and such as would destroy my own work. When that our passions grow unjust, our reason must be of power to suppress them, before they ever come to be able of obliging us to act any thing against our own honour. Alas! replied Balabai, it well appears that you know not Love, it is a Tyrant who acts but by Capriccios, he neither harkens unto reason nor honour, and he is so well obeyed, that very frequently the heart approves of those things which reason condemns. This conversation had lasted longer yet, if the Prince of Fess had not come in, who informed them that the King had newly resolved the Marriage between Alzira and Ali Hamet, on condition that he should renounce all his pretensions on the Kingdoms of Fess and Morocco; he begged their Pardon that he could stay no longer, because that he was going to propose it to Ali Hamet, as from his Father; and so he presently went out. This difeourse did surprise the Princess and Balabai, in two different manners. They observed each other, endeavouring to conceal from one another the motions of joy and of rage which these news did produce in their Souls. Mean time, as it is more difficult to conceal a despair than a joy, Balabai lifting up her Eyes to Heaven, Great Alla! said she, can it be possible that Ali Hamet should espouse my Princess? Cruel Fates! what would you have of me? Am I not miserable enough already, in loving a Prince without hopes of ever possessing him? Must I, in losing him, lose also that Person which is dearest to me in the World? Yes, my dear Princess, continued she, addressing herself to Alzira; I am so little Mistress of myself, that in spite of all the obligations I own you, I feel that it were impossible for me to hinder myself from hating you, if you should espouse my Lover: But I create chimerical terrors to myself; you will never consent to that Marriage, the Match is too unequal, and it is to be believed that our great Prophet who has taken care of your life does reserve you to some great Empire. Alas! replied Alzira, dissembling her joy, Persons of my rank never Mary by their own choice, we are the States Victims, and we have but the satisfaction to obey with a good grace unto our Parents Wills. Can you, continued Balabai, obey with a good grace in such a like occasion? And would you be so cruel as to espouse a Man so indifferent unto you, and which you know I adore? That you adore, interrupted Alzira, do you remember that you speak unto your Husband's Sister? A Person that has such unruly passions, is unworthy of my Friendship; your passion, which was but a weakness before you had given your hand to my Brother, is now become a crime which is most horrid in my sight. Seek out for another Confident; and remember, that I favour you in not informing the Prince of your treachery. Balabai would have answered her, but Alzira went forth without giving her time so to do, shutting the door after, that Balabai might not follow her.  
The Prince of Fess, who had not found Ali Hamet at home, was returned immediately to the Princesses; but having observed that Balabai was speaking with vehemency, he stopped at the door, and did hear the whole conversation between his Wife and his Sister; those terms of Crime, Horror, and Treachery, that the Princess had used, did give him such an horrid Idea of his Wife's perfidiousness, that he had already resolved to Sacrifice her unto his revenge, in plunging his Dagger into her bosom. Alzira, who met him as she went forth, and that guest, by the wildness that appeared in his looks, that he had heard all, did ask him where he had left Ali Hamet. The Prince, without answering, went about to break open the door of his Wife's Chamber. But Balabai, being affrighted at the Prince's violence, and Alzira's outcries, who was endeavouring to hinder him, fled away by a back Stairs, which were joining her Closet, and by that means did save herself from that incensed Princes fury. The Prince's action made a great noise in the Palace. The King that was informed of it would know the truth. The Prince, who was very well pleased with his Sister, let his Father know that she could best inform him of it. Bembuca sent for his Daughter, and after that he had expressed to her the sorrow that he had caused by Balabai's Perfideousness to the Prince, in favour of Ali Hamet. Alzira observing that the King had some distrust that Ali Hamet might be in League with Balabai, she did Sacrifice her Friends secret, having no other thoughts but to justify her Lover; and to make appear that he had no share, nor so much as any knowledge of Balabai's foolish passion. The King that did find much probability in all that the Princess said, did cause his Son to consent that Balabai should live, who was guilty but of an involuntary Passion. And the very next day she was conducted unto a little City in the Confines of the Kingdom of Morocco, where a very mean Pension was assigned her. Mean time Ali Hamet did accept all those terms that Bembuca did require of him, in giving him his Daughter. Yet he having exact measures to observe with Gayland also, he got leave of the King to return to Suss, to get his Uncle's consent, being confident that he loved him sufficiently not to oppose his happiness. He had the pleasure to entertain his Mistress before his departure, and whereas they loved each other with the most sincere and strongest passion that ever was, the Reader may judge how tender was their conversation. Ali Hamet did promise her that his Voyage should be very short, and Alzira did assure him that she should not enjoy any pleafure and content till his return: After his departure, the King who would have this Marriage accomplished with a great deal of Splendour, gave out his orders to have all necessary things got in readiness.  
While that the whole City of Fess was admiring the magnificent preparations which were in hand for this Marriage, Balabai grieved at the ill treatments which she had received at Fess, and jealous of her Rivals good Fortune, she was filled with rage and fury, continually thinking of some means to revenge herself of Bembuca, and of hindering Ali Hamet's Marriage; as she came to the place of her Exile, she learned that Taffilet, who since has made himself so famous by his Conquests, had possessed himself of the Territories of an Ancient Jew, and that he began to impose Laws on divers petty Princes of his Neighbourhood. Balabai, consulting nothing but her own despair, went to Taffilet, who she found at the head of a considerable Army. He received her very civilly, especially after she had assured him, that the report of his great exploits had obliged her to come and crave his protection, against Bembuca's injustice. And the more to engage him to concern himself in her interests, she was so subtle as to tell him, that Alzira who was the most Beautiful Princess of the World, and the most sensible of greatness, had divers times mentioned him to her, complaining of her Fathers bestowing of her by force on Ali Hamet, who had no other merits but of being of the House of the Cherifs, in lieu of giving her unto a Prince of the merit and reputation that Taffilet was. Taffilet, who was the most ambitious of all Men, was ravished to learn that love did furnish him with such a plausible pretence of satisfying his ambition; and he having already heard something of Alzira's Beauty, he expressed much joy to learn those advantageous thoughts that Balabat did assure him that Princess had of him. He promised her that he would never lay down his Arms till he had revenged her of the King of Fess, and delivered Alzira from the Tyranny of so unjust a Father. He made great advantages of Balabai's coming to him, for having given out amongst his Soldiers, that one of the greatest Princesses of Africa was come to demand his protection, and magnified to them the great honour which they received by such an Action, and given them great hopes of recompensing them liberally, they all promised to follow him wherever he should lead them. He marched long Journeys, and he had such care of providing all necessaries for the sustenance of his Men, that his Army, far from growing weak by its fatigues, did Daily increase. He overcame divers petty Princes that lay in his way, and the news of his march did so affrighten all Africa, that divers great Princes did seek after his Friendship at his own rates. Finally, without amusing himself about small places, which might have made him lose time, he set Siege to the City of Fess, which is the Capital of the whole Kingdom, at that time that Ali Hamet was there every moment expected to Celebrate his Marriage with the Princess.  
Bembuca, who always had a great Body of Horse in readiness, thinking to surprise Taffilet before that his Retrenchments were made, did send the Prince of Fess at the head of all his Cavalry to charge Taffilet's tired Troops. But Taffilet, who very well understood his business, and who had foreseen this Sallying forth, did so vigorously receive the Prince of Fess, that after a great Combat, Bembuca's whole Cavalry was defeated and made to fly, and the Prince his Son taken Prisoner. The very next Morning Taffilet sent a Trumpet to the King of Fess, to let him know that if he did not send to him that very Day the Princess Alzira, he would the next Day send him back his Son's Head in a Sack. The whole Court of Fess was in an extreme consternation, when that Taffilet's Trumpet arrived there. The King, having heard what he had to say to him, did find himself in so great a confusion, that he remained a long time not knowing on what to resolve. His Ministers of State, being affrighted at Taffilet's threaten, did in vain press him to determine, and to save his Son in sending the Princess to Taffilet. This unfortunate Father was in so great a consternation, that he had not so much power as to propose it to his Daughter, foreseeing that she should be forced to departed, with such Violences, which he found himself incapable of doing. Mean time, as the business was pressing, he went to his Daughter's Apartment, and told her, that it was in her power to restore the Peace unto his Dominions, and to save her Brother's life. Alzira not comprehending that she could do so much good at once, made answer to her Father with a great deal of submission. Bembuca moved with her answer, retired without having the power to say more to her; a moment after he sent her one of his Ministers of State, accompanied with Taffilet's Trumpet, to let her understand what was expected from her, or rather to force her to departed. For, after having shown her the necessity there was of sacrificing her for the good of the Kingdom, she was placed, without heed given to her tears, in a sumptuous Chariot, which had been prepared for Ali Hamet's Marriage. There were Women given her to serve her, and nothing was forgot that might contribute to gain the conquerors favour.  
Those Persons which did accompany the Princess did exhort her in vain to conceal her grief, and to constrain herself when she should be in Taffilet's presence, to obtain the more advantageous conditions in favour of the King and his Subjects. Alzira, who thought she had nothing more to care for after the loss of Ali Hamet, did represent unto herself nothing but horror, and did show by her answers, that she was very far from buying with her complaysance Taffilet's favour. She on the contrary did attempt to cast herself from the Chariot, in order to destroy herself, complaining of the charitable cruelty of those that would prevent her. A Portugais Slave, who had long served her, told her, that seeing she was not afraid of death, she should stay to the last extremities to use that remedy, and in the mean time endeavour to oblige Taffilet on other pretences to defer her Marriage for some time, to give unto the brave Ali Hamet time to raise an Army on Foot, and to Fight Taffilet. Alzira, who did expect all from Love and her Lover's Valour, did approve of her faithful Slave's advice, and did promise to follow it, being however resolved rather to lose her life than Marry Taffilet. After that she had taken a resolution so conformable unto her Love and despair, she suspended all her sorrow, to take care of her dress, being persuaded, as all Ladies are, that Beauty is a great help to succeed in all their designs. Taffilet being prepossessed with the thoughts that the Princess did love him, as Balabai had assured him, set his Army in Battalia to honour her the more; he went to meet her, and did receive her in a very gallant manner, with the noise of an infinite number of Drums and Trumpets; he assured her that he had not taken up Arms but to deliver her from her Father's force, and to return her thanks for those advantegeous thoughts which she entertained of him, in laying at her Feet the Crowns of all those Sovereigns that he had Vanquished. Alzira, who could not make any thing of that discourse, made him no answer but by divers reverences, of which Taffilet was very well pleased, being persuaded that the Princess' silence was an effect of her Bashfulness and Modesty. After this he did accompany her into a magnificent Tent which he had caused to be purposely prepared, where she found Balabai, who gave her the reception, and did joy her in Taffilet's presence, of the happy Change which had happened in her fortune, seeing that in lieu of Espousing a Prince without Territories, she was going to give her Hand unto the Conqueror of all Africa. Alzira, who had not been able to retain her tears at the hearing of her Lovers Name, gave occasion to Taffilet to inquire after the cause of it. Balabai, without giving her time to speak, made answer, that the remembrance of those Violences that her Father would have used in Ali Hamet's behalf, did doubtless draw those tears from her. Taffilet, being at this transported with an amorous Zeal, did swear by the great Mahomet that he would punish that bold Person, and that he should not think himself worthy the possessing of so charming a Princess, till he had laid at her Feet the Head of Ali Hamet. What! Sir, said Balabai, interrupting him, as affrighted at that threatening, would you retard so long your happiness? My own honour, replied Taffilet, and what I own unto that good opinion that this Princess has had of me, oblige me to impose on myself that necessity; however if that should not please her, her pleasure shall ever Rule my Will. The Princess, ravished to hear Taffilet of his own accord offer to defer the Marriage, was ready to take advantage of the proffer which he made her, but then recollecting that by that answer she in a manner did ask him for Ali Hamet's Head, she remained unresolved, rather being willing that Taffilet should think that she approved not of that delay, than to say any thing that might advance her Lover's Ruin. Taffilet thinking that the Princess would declare her mind unto Balabai, did assure her that he was going to send back her Brother the Prince, and so went out. So soon as Balabai found herself alone with the Princess, she cast herself down at her Feet, to conjure her to divert Taffilet's cruel designs, and to give her Hand to that Prince without any further delay, lest that he should endeavour to give her some marks of his Love and Valour at Ali Hamet's cost, who might be surprised by a Victorious Army, if the Princess had not the goodness to stop this Conqueror. You question not, continued she, but that that violent passion which I have for Ali Hamet has engaged me to require Taffilet's assistance, to prevent your Marriage. But I do confess to you that your particular interest hath also very much contributed in making me take that resolution, through the Honour and great advantages that will accrue unto you thereby, when throughout the whole Earth it will be said, that after that the most famous Taffilet had vanquished all Africa, he has laid so many Crowns at your Feet, and has terminated all his Conquests with the possession of your Heart. Live happy with that worthy Spouse, enjoy long your prosperity, and only prevent that the same Hand which I have Armed to procure unto you so much good, serve not to destroy my Lover, who I love a thousand times more than my life. Alzira affrighted at her Rivals transport, perceiving that it was very necessary to dissemble with her, did tell her that she had a most particular esteem for Taffilet, and promised without doing herself any great violence therein, that she should never require any thing from him against Ali Hamet. Balabai, who was not satisfied with that answer, was continuing her request, when that one of Taffilet's Officers entered the Tent, who was sent by his Master to Compliment Alzira on the Death of her Brother, and to assure her that he had no hand in the business; that Prince having been killed as he was returning to Fess, by a Vanguard who had Charged him unknown. These news did variously surprise the two Princesses. For Alzira was extremely afflicted at the Death of her Brother, and Balabai, who looked on that Prince as on an obstacle unto that strong passion which she had for Ali Hamet, did from that moment flatter herself, that she should ere long be happy. Mean time Taffilet did make so good use of that consternation in which Bembuca, and the inhabitants of Fess, were, that he made himself Master of that Place, still declaring, that he would not alter any thing; he also persuaded Bembuca that he had no hand in the Prince his Son's misfortune, and did assure him that he would retire out of the Kingdom of Fess so soon as he had Married the Princess. Bembuca being deceived by those discourses, did Write to the Princess, and after that he had conjured her by all the tender affection which he had for her, to defer no longer the giving of her Hand unto the famous Taffilet, he also made use of his Paternal authority to command her to do it. Taffilet himself did carry this Letter to Alzira; but that Princess, who did find a certain kind of consolation in the death of her Brother, seeing that it helped her with a pretence of bewailing her own sorrows, did entreat Taffilet to afford her two Days to dry up her tears. Taffilet, who did affect a very great submission unto Alzira's Will and Pleasure, did consent to her desires, and did even assure her that he had resolved to gain her Heart by his obedience and services, but that the King had thought it fit to defer no longer their Marriage.  
While that Taffilet was disposing of all things in a readiness to Espouse Alzira with all the pomp and magnificence that he could think on, that Princess, who did detest her Father's weakness, did melt into tears, and resolved to destroy herself, before the term which had been granted her were come. The Portuguese Slave, who did never abandon her, did in vain endeavour to make her change her resolution. But the Princess did conjure her not to mention any more to her the living without Ali Hamet, and she did so work upon the Spirit of this faithful Slave with her tears and sobs, that she promised to die with her. They proposed to open their Veins, and to render to each other that reciprocal Cruel Office. The night seeming to them the most fit time to execute their violent design, they did resolve to stay till the Sun were set, and embraced one another, very well satisfied with that resolution which they had newly taken. A Jew, Portugues-born, who was an Officer in Taffilets' Troops, and that accidentally did Command that Day the Guard that was at the Princess' Chamber door, did over hear their discourse, by reason that the Princess, who spoke Portuguese to her Slave, not thinking that that Language would be understood by any Person, had not been so cautious as to speak low. This Officer being amazed at this Tragical design, was moved with a sense of Compassion, and did resolve either to save the Princess or to lose himself. A little time after, he entered her Chamber, as if to ask her for some orders. Alzira did mildly recommend to him, that no Person should approach her Tent till the next Morning, because that she was very sleepy, and was desirous to go early to Bed. The Jew, who had Wit, looked fixedly on her, and feigned to have just then discovered something of extraordinary in her Face. Then did he speak Portuguese, and told the Princess, that she was threatened with a most Tragical accident, but that if she could avoid it, she would be filled with content, and in a short time would find herself the most happy Princess in the whole World. Alzira startled at so surprising a discourse, did admire this Strangers wonderful knowledge, and asked him, with tears in her Eyes, if it would be as easy for him to inform her how she should attain to that happiness which he promised her, as it had been for him to guests at the accident with which she was threatened. I shall not find any thing difficult to serve you, replied the Jew, and seeing that you have such an aversion against Taffilet, I offer to have you to a Port that is but a Mile distant from this Place, and from thence I shall conduct you to Oran, which is the nearest City, and that belongs to the Spaniards: Mean time things may have a new Face, and I promise you, that if you will follow my advice, you will soon enjoy that happiness which I have already foretold you. Alzira moved at a discourse which flattered her Love and Hopes, durst not however trust to a strangers bare Word. But the Portuguese Slave, who peradventure began to repent, did give her such good reasons to oblige her to follow the Jews Counsels, that at last she resolved to do it, being persuaded, that seeing he had guest at her misfortunes, he would likely prove true in what he had told her of her good Fortune. The Jew went forth to dispose so of all things, as that they might make their retreat without a surprisal; he also sent a considerable Person to the Port, to make sure of a Bark, and a while after he returned into Alzira's Chamber, who he found ready to undertake all things. She presented him with a rich Diamond, and after that she had exacted from him with a thousand Oaths, that he should not betray her, she went forth, followed by her Slave, and came to the Port, without complaint of the length of the way, though she had gone on Foot. The fear which they had of being surprised, did oblige them to embark hastily on the first Vessel they met with: So soon as they were embarked, the Jew, who had not betrayed Taffilet, but in order to enjoy the Princess, who had appeared so charming to him, had the boldness to mention his Love to her, and to propose to her, to retire with him into Europe, where he assured her that she should live in a private condition a thousand times more happy than all the African Princesses. Alzira disdaining so insolent a proposition, did reproach his perfidiousness to him in very outrageous terms, and she did so disturb the Mariners through her tears and outcries, who could not understand one another at their Work, that they threatened to put her in Chains. Alzira, not daunted at their threaten, gave them all the Jewls which she had taken along with her, to appease them; and perceiving that those liberalities did make them more respectuous, she did exhort them, showing them the Jew, to Chain up that Villain, who had betrayed her; and did speak to them with so much assurance, that they deferred not the obeying of her. But judging by Alzira's extreme Beauty, that in the Sale of her they might get a considerable Sum, they resolved to conduct her to Tangire, which belongs to the English, left that if they should carry her into any Port of Africa, she should be known, and they punished. They did not alter a resolution so conformable unto their avarice, and the next Day being arrived at Tangire, they exposed to Sale the Princess of Fess, the Portuguese Slave, and the Jew. The Care that the perfidious Mariners did take in setting forth Alzira's Beauty, and the greatness of her Birth, though they knew her not, did invite divers English Men to go to see her. They all found her so Charming, that through the Emulation which her Beauty gave them, they did offer an excessive Sum for her, and yet those insatiate fellows would not be satisfied with it, which caused some disorder. The Governor of Tangire was at that time gone into England, and had left to Command in his place the Count Talbor, who was a very experienced Soldier, the same who had been Slave unto Ali Hamet. This Commander being informed of that Slave's Beauty, and of the exorbitant rate that her Masters would sell her at, gave order that she should be brought to him, that he might judge of the business. The Count, who had divers times seen Alzira in the Palace of Fess, did easily know her again, and remained in an extreme surprisal at the seeing her, in a condition so different from her own. He endeavoured to assure himself better of it, in speaking Portuguese to her, having heard that the Princess of Fess did know that Language. Alzira, who had a confused Idea of having formerly seen elsewhere the Count Talbor, and that guessed by the respectous manner in which he spoke to her that she was known, did inform him of her disasters in few Words. The Count admiring the Princess' generosity, or rather love, who had chosen rather to expose itself to all kind of misery, than to give her hand unto the Conqueror of Africa, did assure her that he would contribute with all his power to sweeten her misfortunes, and at the same time did mention to her the great obligations in which he was indebted towards Ali Hamet, and of the pleasure which he should do to himself in showing her his acknowledgements, by rendering some kind of services unto a Person that was so dear unto him. Alzira, who had harkened but with much indifferency unto all this Commanders Civilities, was so moved to learn that it was on Ali Hamet's consideration that she did find a protector and a friend in the place of a severe Judge, which she had feared, that from that moment she began to hope that the Jews predictions would be found true, and she begged his pardon from the Count, who had already resolved to have him punished, as well as the Mariners, who were Chained up, in punishment to their perfidiousness. The Count Talbor having after this caused a magnificent Apartment to be prepared for the Princess, she was then treated with the same respect as if she had been still at her Father's Court.  
Taffilet, mean time, grieved at the Princess' flight, and at the cheat which had been put upon him, in assuring him that she loved him, did turn all his fury against Balabai, who he did treat most unworthily; and after that, he added her to the number of those Women that followed the Army to supply his wantonness. Bembuea was no better treated; for Taffilet, who was always seeking for some pretences to his Ambition, did accuse him of having had an hand in Alzira's flight, and secured his Person, after that he had possessed himself of his Estates.  
Ali Hamet alarmed at Taffilet's progress, and particularly at the noise which was spread abroad, that he was going to Espouse the Princess of Fess, did raise an Army with an incredible diligence, and made great haste to meet Taffilet, who having had notice of his March, did save him half the labour, and went before him with the confidence of a Person who is at the head of a Victorious Army, surprising in the mountains the fatigated and ill experienced Troops of Ali Hamet's Army, which he did Charge so advantageously, that he entirely routed them. Ali Hamet, after that he had done divers surprising Actions, made his escape with much ado, and returned to Suss, unto his Uncle Gayland, who was so affrighted at this defeat, and at the news which he not long after received of Taffilet's being entered on the Territories of Suss, that he deferred not a moment of Embarking himself, with what he had of Riches, to retire to Algar, resolved to end his Days in a private condition. Ali Hamet, who was less afflicted at the loss of his Country than at that of his Mistress, perceiving that there was no Prince in Africa of power to protect him against the redoubted Taffilet, remembered that formerly a certain Prince of Europe had reestablished Muley on the Throne of Tunis; and making some reflections on all the strange actions which Fame did already report of the Emperor of the French, he did think that that Monarch was the only Person that could assist him against Taffilet, which made him resolve to pass into France, to desire succour from that great Prince. But having not met with any fit Vessel to perform the Voyage, he went to Tangire on a light Frigate, with an intention to make use of the first opportunity to go to France. The Count Talbor, who had had already advice of Ali Hamet's rout, did conccal that ill news from the Princess, and did still comfort her, in assuring her that it was impossible that Taffilet's good Fortune should last long. Mean time, he was advertised that Gayland was retired to Algar; and concerning himself very much in Ali Hamet's business, he was in a great anxiety of mind to know what was become of that Prince, when he was informed, that there was a Frigate from Suss newly put in at the Port. He had not patience to stay till the Pilot was sent to him, but run to the Port to inform himself more particulrrly of all that passed at Suss, and at Tarudent. Ali Hamet, whom he presently knew, did make him fear, seeing him, that his business was desperate; the Count received him with all the imaginable respects, and treated him as if he had still been his Slave. The Prince, after he had Embraced him, put him in mind that they were together the first time that he had seen Alzira, and did confess to him, that he was less concerned at the loss of his Dominions, than at the Princess' grief, who was exposed unto Taffilet's Violence. The Count ravished that he could inform him of something that would consolate him in that Consternation that he saw him, did assure him, that the Princess of Fess was not in Taffilet's power; and having told him the resolution which she had taken, rather to die than to give her Hand to that Prince, he acquainted him after what manner she had arrived at Tangire, and presently did accompany him to her Chamber. Never did any one pass in so short a time from an extreme affliction to so great a joy: Ali Hamet, who thought that he had lost all, was so ravished to have found his fair Princess, who was more precious to him than all the Crowns on Earth, that he abandoned himself to the pleasure of reseeing her again with the same transports as if he had had no loss: and Alzira, who had not dreaded Taffilet, but through the fears that his Arms should prove fatal to her Lover, was so satisfied with seeing him, that she thought not so much as to ask news of the Battle; imagining to have gained all, now that she had met again with her dear Ali Hamet. The Count Talbor, who took a particular delight to contribute to the good Fortune of those Illustrious Lovers, did propose to the Prince the Espousing Alzira, without staying till his ill Fortune should once again take that charming Princess from him. Ali Hamet being convinced by such reasons as did so pleasingly flatter his Love, did resolve to propose it to Alzira. But when that he found himself near her, and that he made some reflections on his misfortunes, he durst not propose any thing to her, and repent having had the thoughts of so doing, having much less trouble in bearing himself alone his own ill Fortune, than to share it with that amiable Princess. His courage would inspire him to attempt new things to regain his Estates, and his Love would make him find out a thousand difficulties of performing the design which he had of passing into Europe to ask for aid. The Count Talbor, finding him in those resolutions, did advise him to go to Gayland, who was retired to Algar with vast Riches, and did assure him, that if that Prince would but furnish him with a considerable Sum, he might easily raise another Army, and hazard a second Battle against Taffilet. The Prince approving much this Counsel, set himself about the executing of it; and for fear he should be mollified with his Mistress' Tears, he departed without taking leave of her. Gayland, who notwithstanding his great Riches, did already begin to grow weary of living in an obscure condition, did not spare any thing to forward Ali Hamet's Generous designs, and he was so well assisted, that in a short time he found himself at the Head of an Army, accompanied with divers Officers of Merit, which the Count Talbor gave to serve with him.  
The Nobility of Fess, who could not brook the Violences and Scorns of Taffilet, sent up their prayers for Ali Hamet. Taffilet alone despising an Enemy whom he had already beaten, went against him at the head of his Army, where he had incorporated Bembuca's Cavalry, which was still Commanded by Maucaden. Though that Ali Hamet had much the lesser Number of Troops than his Enemy had, he expected him Manfully, with a resolution to vanquish or to die. Taffilet did Charge him with the confidence which is so common to Victors. But Ali Hamet's Trorps, animated by that. Prince's example, who was in all places, did combat with great Valour, and Taffilet was beginning to fear the success of the Battle, when he caused his Body of reserve to advance, in which was Bembuca's Horse. Maucaden, fretted at Taffilet's Violences, and particuat the wrongs which he had done his Sister, did exhort his Men to abandon that Tyrant, and take Ali Hamet's Party, who was of the Blood of the Cherifs, and consequently the true Successor to the Crown of Fess. He instantly did Charge with so much resolution those that would have opposed his designs, that the greatest part did follow him. Taffilet advertized of this misfortune did despair of Victory, and thought no more but of saving part of his Men with retreating. But Ali Hamet, who was desirous to put an end to the War, taking advantage of his Enemy's disorder, did press him with so much Valour, that Taffilet was forced to change his mind, and to hazard all. There he was killed, performing of surprising actions, and Ali Hamet did gain a most signal Battle by his death, besides his fair Mistress, and divers considerable Kingdoms. The Count Talbor, who had sent on the Coast of Fess a Yatch, to be informed of of the success of that great Day, did learn with all the imaginable joy, the rout and death of Taffilet. He carried these good news unto the Princess, who burning with impatiency of seeing her Father again, and of joying her Lover, did conjure that trusty Friend not to retared her from that pleasure, and to send her back to Fess that very Day. The Count ravished to contribute to her satisfaction, Embarked her in a Yatch, and gave her one of his Relations to acconmpany her. Ali Hamet, who was not sensible unto so many happy successes, but in relation to his Mistress, did send a Person of Trust to Count Talbor, to give him an account, and rendered himself at the nearest Port of Tangire, there to wait for news from Alzira, who was just Embarking when that her Lover arrived there. It would be difficult to express the reciprocal joy which they had at the sight of one another. The remembrance of their late disgraces did contribute also to make them relish with more delight the pleasure which they had of being together, and of thinking how worthy they were of one another. They came to Fess, where Ali Hamet, after that he had Re-established Bembuca on the Throne, gave his Hand to Alzira with all the satisfaction imaginable. Soon after, he sent Magnificent presents unto the Count Talbor, and did not forget any thing that could express his acknowledgements to so faithful a Friend.  
FINIS.