THE Right, Pleasant, and Variable TRAGICAL HISTORY OF FORTUNATUS.  
Whereby a Youngman may learn how to behave himself in all Worldly Affairs and Casual Chances.  
First Penned in the Dutch Tongue: There hence Abstracted, and now first of all Published in ENGLISH; By T. C.  
LONDON, Printed by A. Purslow, for George Saubridge, at the Sign of the Bible on Ludd-gate-Hill, near Fleet-Bridge. 1676.   

The Moral Documents and considerations, which are to be noted in this Book.  

The example of Theodorus. Cap. 1.  
HOw careless youth to pleasure bend,  
when wealth doth flow at will;  
Till raging riot all ●ath spent,  
they never had their will.   

The Crafty Servan● Robert, Cap. ●  
How fashood wrought by flattery,  
the simple doth assail:  
When spite with open enmity,  
by no means can prevail.   

Appearing 〈◊〉 Andrew, an unthrifty Merchant. Cap. 6, 7, ●nd 8.  
How bankrupts pinched with poverty,  
when g●ace is not their stay;  
Do seek relief by villainy,  
to work their just decay.   

Expressed by the death of Je animus Roberti, Cap. 8.  
How these which murder do conceal,  
to plague the Lord is bend,  
Which all men ought for to reveal,  
though guiltless of consent.   

Example of the Thievish Host. Cap. 16.  
How thiefs by custom in their need,  
do venture for their prey,  
Until when they think best to speed,  
they work their just decay.   

Appearing, Cap. 31. and 32.  
How some that fe●r their state to stain  
for dread of worldly shame;  
Will sin procure for private gain,  
deserving no less blame.   

To be noted. Cap. 34.  
How Venus lust ineyeing may,  
soon force the Amorous Knight,  
His greatest se●●● to bewray,  
to Work his woeful plight.   

Appearing by the whole course of the History, especially by the divers dispositi● and final destinies of Fortunatus and his two Sons.  
How strength & beauty soon do fail,  
and health and wealth decay:  
All fortunes gifts do nought avail,  
where wisdom bears no sway.  
How virtuous life, an honest end,  
doth commonly ensue;  
And they which sin do still pretend,  
with violent death shall ●u●.    

To the Reader.  
AS in the Writings of Fabulous Poets, and Witty Apothegms of Aesop, Diogenes, and such like Pleasant-Conceited Philosophers, are to be found many pithy and wise Lessons, behoveable for the state of Man's Life, as well as in the severe precepts of the Sage Stoics; so in this Tragical History (though it be somewhat farced and interlaced with Poetical Imaginations,) is to be noted by the discreet Reader, sufficient matter concerning most Estates, to bring the mind in remembrance of the fickleness of Fortune's transitory gifts, of the reward of virtue, the punishment of vice, and the end of folly. Moreover in this History is often occasion taken, partly to describe the names, situations, & commodities of the chiefest Countries, Merchants, Kingdoms, & Cities of the Earth, which to the valiant mind bringeth no small delectation. These few causes considered, I doubt not but this History shall seem to Men of good Judgement more worthy the Printer's travel, than many vain pamphlets, ballads, songs, and dallying devices, tending only to the artificial cloaking of vice, and m●zling of Amorous Heads therein. And forasmuch as by consideration, and conference in perusing thereof, I found much childish and superfluous inventions, intermingled also with some sparks of profane superstition (according to the manner of penning, used in that barbarous Age) which might seem odious to the godly, and loathsome to the learned (the matter and substance of the History being notwithstanding most Variable, Pleasant, and Delectable to read) I thought it most convenient, by rejecting what was unseemly, rather to collect an Abstract of the substance thereof in a plain and English Phrase, than to have respect to the literal Translation: Which if I have ●ot accomplished so precisely as perhaps some of our English Rhetoricians would have done, I crave pardon for my offence, and give them leave to mend that is amiss, not doubting but the courteous Reader will rather accept thereof, with the like affection as it is offered, than disdain my ability to offer it so perfect in all points as I would.   

CHAP. I. Of the Birth of Fortunatus.  
IN the Isle of Cyprus there is a great City called FAMAGOSTA, wherein dwelled a Rich Citizen, descended of an Ancient and Renowned stock, whose name was Theodorus, unto whom his Progenitors had left so much Goods and Revenues, that through the abundance of Wealth, he esteemed himself mighty and puissant. He was of Age young, of Disposition lusty and retchless, and little considering the Frugality and thrifty sparing of his Ancestors, whereby they carefully augmented their goods and possessions, which he without care enjoyed. So that his mind being wholly addicted unto honour, pastime, and worldly pleasure, he presumed to bear the countenance of an high and costly estate, by usual frequenting of Prince's Courts, justings, & other suchlike Martial games, by which means he soon wasted much of his goods and treasure. His friends being greatly displeased with such his outrageous prodigality, determined to marry him unto a Wife; supposing thereby somewhat to alter his mind. Theodorus willingly condescended to their desires: whereupon they diligently searching to find out a comely and convenient Espouse for him, found at length in the City of Nicova (which is the Head City of the Isle of Cyprus, where there Kings commonly keep their Courts) a Noble and Rich Citizen which had a fair Daughter named Gratiana, whom he forthwith was content to give in Marriage unto Theodorus, without any further inquiry what manner of man he was. And thereupon was the Maiden brought home unto him, only upon the great Fame of his Riches and Puissance; who was at her Coming entertained with a Costly and Sumptuous Banquet, as the manner is of the Rich, to show at such times their Wealth and Magnificence.  
After the Feast was ended, all things accordingly finished, and every Guest taking their leave were returned home, Theodorus taking his Espouse unto him, lived for a season friendly and virtuously with her; wherewith both she and her friends took great pleasure, thinking they had achieved a very good deed, in so taming the wild Theodorus, by tying him to a Wife: but yet they considered not the property of Nature, which bendeth only to that which she is inclined unto. So in process of time, Gratiana became great with Child, and was delivered before the year was fully complete from the day o● the Wedding; whereof the friends of both parties were very glad. Then was the child christened with the name of Fortunatus: And although Theodorus herewith rejoiced, yet ceased he not to follow his old Trade, in just, keeping a great train of Men and Horses, and daily haunting of Prince's Courts, not without intolerable and excessive charges; insomuch that he began to sell and mortgage, now one piece of Land, and then another, leaving both Wife and Child unregarded. Then in Selling, Gauging, and Wasting, he continued so long till all was gone: and so fell into such extreme poverty, that he was neither able to keep Manservant nor Maiden: So the good Gratiana was of necessity forced to dress her own Meat, and to wash her own  like a Handmaid or poor slave. They on a time sitting together at a simple Dinner, pretending to make good cheer if they had wherewithal, the Father beholding his Son, sighed from the bottom of his Heart: which when his Son perceived, who was then eighteen Years Old, and could Write and Read, simply (but was expert in Praying on the Lute, in Hunting and Hawking, which were his chief Pastimes) he said to his Father: Dear Father, what a●leth you? For I well perceive that whensoever you beho d me, you become sad, and show an heavy Countenance: I pray you Father, have I by any means provoked you to be offended? tell me truly, and hid not your secret thought from me; for I am wholly determined to Accomplish your Will in reasonable Points. Then answered the Father, saying: My dear Son, the occasion of my grief cometh not by thee, neither may I blame any Creature therefore, but myself only, for the pinching penury and distress which now I sustain, have I myself caused: And therefore I call to mind the great Honour and Wealth that I lately enjoyed, and now am utterly deprived of; which my Ancestors have so carefully spared, as I also aught to have done, for the maintenance of our stock and progeny in Honour and Dignity, the which alas, I have altogether neglected: And when I call to mind how far unable I am to help and secure thee my only Child, this is the Vexation and hearts grief that vexeth me both night and day. This moreover doubleth my Sorrows, that all these my most familiar Companions, to whom I so frankly imparted my goods, have now abandonned my Company, and that I am so little welcome unto them. To this answered Fortunatus, saying: Dear beloved Father, cast off your mourning, and take no such immoderate care for me; for I am young, strong, and in perfect health, I will tra●el into far and unknown Countries to serve. In the World by hardy adventuring, there happeneth to many good chance and fortune, whereof I doubt not but by the help of God, some part shall fall to my Lot. As for you Father, you have business of the Kings, him may you serve, and it is not like that he will suffer you or my Mother long to continue in any great want. Leave off therefore (I say again) these tears on my behalf: For I have not been so ill trained up (I thank God and you for it) but I can shift for myself. With this went Fortunatus out of the house with a Hawk on his Fist, toward the Sea-coast, pondering with himself what he might best do, to absent himself from his Father's sight, that he might be no more grieved thereby. As he thus walked up and down by the Seaside, he saw a Galley of Venice coming from Jerusalem; wherein was an Earl of Flanders, who had lost two of his Men by the way. But forasmuch as the Earl had no business with the King, and that the Patron of the Galley caused a Sign to be given by the sound of a Trumpet, that every one should speedily come aboard the Ship, the Earl with many other Gentlemen came forthwith into the Galley: Which Fortunatus seeing, he thought in his mind: Would God I might be one of this great Lords men, to accompany him into his Country, that I might be rid of my Country Cyprus. With that he stepped boldly to the Earl, making low obeisance and courtesy; (whereby the Earl well perceived that he was no Rustical Clown;) And therewithal said: Gracious Lord, I understand your Honour hath lost two of your Men, and therefore pleaseth you now to entertain one? Then asked the Earl: What canst thou do? He answered, I can Hunt and Hawk, and do all that pertaineth thereto: I have also some skill in riding and Feats of Arms. To this, said the Earl, thou shouldst like me well: but to my Country we have a long and tedious journey, wherefore I suppose thou wauldst be loath to travel so far. Not so, my Lord said Fortunatus, that shall be to me no let at all, but I would willingly adventure the travel, though it were four times as far. Then demanded the Earl, sa●ing: What Wages shall I give thee? Fortunatus' answered, I require no wages, (if it so like your honour) but to be rewarded according to my deserts These words of the young man liked the Earl very well, saying unto him: The Galley forthwith shall be launched from the shore, art thou therefore ready to departed with us? He answered, When it pleaseth you my Lord. And so casting the Hawk that he had upon his fist up into the Air, departed without blessing of Father or Mother with the Earl, and became his man, carrying with him very simple furniture, and little or no money in his Purse. So hoi●ing up their Sail, in short time they luckily arrived at Venice.   

How Fortunatus sailed away with the Earl without Knowledge of his Father or Mother: Chap. 2.   Scene from Chapter 2 
Fortunatus perceiving his Lords good affection towards him, became the more serviceable, applying himself to be always in the Evening the last, and in the morning the first in his Lord's presence. Now the Earl had bought many Horses for his servants, of the which some were haply more fair to the eye, than fit for any good purpose: He therefore would have them mustered before him, and so distributed them among his men, giving to Fortunatus one next the best; which grieved much the other Servants, and thereupon they envied him, saying among themselves: What Devil hath sent this Italian to put us out of conceit and credit? Howbeit it lay not in their power to stay him from riding with the Earl, neither could they blame him in any point.  
The Earl was now returned home joyfully, and at his coming was received of his Subjects most honourably; for he was both affable, just, and virtuous, and so the better beloved of his subjects, for that he loved them, and was careful for their Estate.  
The Nobles likewise, and other his friendly neighbours came together to welcome him, thanking God for his prosperous journey: & before all other matters they took special care for the present accomplishing of the wedding, which pleased him very well: So that with full consent he was Espoused with all convenient speed unto the Duke of Cleave his Daughter. For this Wedding was made great preparation, and thither did resort many Lords and great Estates: where many valiant Knights and Gentlemen in gorgeous attire, mounted on barbed Stéeds, at the Tilts and Turney, and other such feats of Chivalry, extended their manly force before the fair and Noble Ladies there present. And although there were assembled at that Wedding no small number of proper and comely Servitors, attending on the ●hief Estates, yet there was none of them all whose service and behaviour was more commended than the service of Fortunatus: whereupon divers demanding of the Earl where he ●ad gotten him, he declared unto them, that he ●y Fortune chanced on him in the way coming ●rom Jerusalem: and told them moreover, that ●e was so expert in Hunting and Hawking, ●hat neither Wild Beast of the Field, nor Fowl of the Air might hardly escape him: Be●●des that also he especially commended him ●or his diligent and pliable service, and for ●hat he could so circumspectly apply and frame himself to all Estates. By means of which commendation of his Lord, he had many gifts gi●en him of Noblemen and women.   

How Fortunatus did his endeavour in just a his Lords Wedding, and gained both th● Jewels. Chap. 3.   Scene from Chapter 3 
AFter that the Lords and Nobles had ●nished their triumphs and martial game● the Duke of Cleve and the Bridegroom (t● Earl of Flanders) agreed that their Servitor and retinues should likewise have their pasti●● and try Masteries, in just for two Iewel● esteemed to the value of an hundred Crown● and he that might obtain the prize should ha● one of them. Of this were all the servants gl●● and every man put forth himself to do his be● So it befell that one of the Duke of Burgun● his servants had one of the jewels on the one side, and Fortunatus won the other on the contrary part; which misliked the most part of the servitors, and thereupon they entreated Timothy the Duke of Burgundy's man, making many fair promises to recompense him with the like deserts, if he would undertake to challenge Fortunatus to try in just who should have both the jewels. Timothy having no power to deny the request of so many good fellows, made open challenge unto Fortunatus before the Ladies and Gentlewomen to just with him, and that whosoever obtained the prize, should posess both the jewels. When Fortunatus heard that, he took no great deliberation, but accepted the challenge with a valiant courage. This being noised among the Lords, they gladly drew together to see this bickering. The challenger & defender each of them well appointed came to the Tiltyard, where they encountered with a manly and violent courage, being on either part stirred with a fervent desire both of lucre and fame. At the fourth course Fortunatus hoist Timothy from his Horse the space of a Spears length: wherewith he won the victory, and obtained the jewels, esteemed more worth than two hundred Crowns. By this was the envy of his fellow-servants more vehemently increased, but the Earl himself rejoiced greatly, that one of his retinue had so victoriously won the chief Prize. Howbeit he understood not the Grudge and Malice that his men had against Fortunatus, neither durst any man disclose it unto him.  
Among the Earls Servants there was one, an old wise fellow, named Robert, who offered himself to practise a cast of knavery in the behalf of all his fellows, promising unto them, that if they would give unto him ten Crowns in ready money, he would bring to pass that the Italian should departed of his own accord, without taking leave of his Lord, or of any other, and that none thereof should be suspected. Then said his fellows, If thou canst do as thou hast said, why dost thou linger any stay to attempt the same? He answered, Soft a while, for I cannot do it without present money; but if every one of you will give me half a Crown, I will repay unto each of you a whole Crown, if I work not this feat according as I have said. They were all willing to grant to his request, so that they speedily collected this sum of fifteen Crowns, and gave them to Robert, who willed them to speak no more unto him concerning that matter, and that every one should behave himself according as he had done before. From henceforth this Robert became a daily companion unto Fortunatus, showing himself very friendly unto him, inveigling him with pleasant communication, and recounting of things done in the Country, which was to Fortunatus delectable. He enured and enticed him to the company and haunt of fair women, where he of his proper charges, would always send for Wine and other Banqueting junquets, meet for such company. Robert also would collogne with him, praising his Riches, Nobility, and valiant courage, which Fortunatus could well endure. And when he would always offer his money also for their expenses, Robert would not suffer him to pay any part; saying, that he loved him better than any of his brethren, and therefore thought all too little that was bestowed on him. This Company of good fellowship continued so long, that their fellows were therewith grieved: saying one to another, Doth Robert mean to drive away Fortunatus with such a life? It is rather to be supposed that if he were in Cyprus again, and witted to have such pleasant entertainment, he would think it long ere he were returned thither: surely he doth not fulfil his promise, and therefore it is meet that we have our money again. Robert being advertised thereof, scoffed thus at his fellows, saying, Would they have me make better cheer with their money than I have done? Notwithstanding at the last, when the money was near hand spent, on an evening when the Earl and his Wife were gone to rest, cometh Robert to Fortunatus, into his Chamber secretly, and said, Even now hath the Master Chancellor told me a secret, for he is my singular good friend, and did earnestly forbid me upon pain to lose his friendship, that I should disclose it to no man; but yet I cannot for the friendship that is between us, conceal this thing from thee, which so nearly toucheth thine estate. Thus stands the cause (as thou knowest) our Lord hath a fair woman to Wife, and hath many fair Gentlewomen with her: He hath of late conceived a durable Fantasy, and is become very jealous in the behalf of his Espouse, and the other Gentlewomen, fearing lest his young Chamberlains might be on them enamoured, and so provoked to Carnal Lust; and although he dare repose such confidence in them, that they would consent to no dishonesty, yet can he not well put out of his mind what a blind thing Love is, and when it is once kindled, how hardly it is quenched, and that when true Lovers be linked with like Affections, nothing may separate them but only Death. To prevent this, he is counselled, yea, and ful●y minded, on the morrow to ride to Lausan, where he must wage Law with an Earl concerning certain Money and Land, and meaneth to come thither stately furnished with all his Men about him, because he knoweth that the Earl of St. Paul his adversary, will be there also with no small company, gorgeously appointed. And whilst he remaineth there, he will cause the four Chamberlains to be Gelded whether they will or not, and then set them in their Office as before. He will also show the matter unto his Wife, forbidding her to disclose it unto any person. Howbeit he knoweth well that she cannot long conceal it from her waiting Gentlewomen, who will most likely utter it further unto others, so shall it pass from one to another until it be spread all abroad. And by this means he pretendeth to prevent all Mischief that eftsoons might chance among you through Amorous Love; for he considereth that no woman regardeth a gelded man. When Fortunatus had heard this report, he was therewith amazed; and first of all asked him whether he knew any secret way whereby he might convey himself with speed out of the City? saying, I will not in any case abide the presence of my Lord, though he would give me all his Lands; no, though he would make me King of England, would I serve him any longer: I pray thee therefore said Fortunatus help me, my good friend Robert, and give me some counsel how I may speedily departed. Robert answered, saying; Thou knowest all the Gates of the City be now shut, and none can issue out or in, until to morrow when the Bell warneth to service, and then is the Cow-gate opened. But my beloved Fortunatus, if I myself were in your case, I would not greatly refuse it, considering the great Love and Affection that thy Lord hath conceived toward thee, whereby thou art like to come to great preferment, Then said Fortunatus, I would rather become a beggar, to wander as a vagabond from place to place, than to endure such a shame and villainy. Then spoke Robert again, saying, I am now sorry that ever I advertised thee of these things, since thou wilt so departed: For I trust we should have lived together in friendly amity, as loving brethren, and to have passed our time joyfully, one delighting in the other. But since thou wilt by no means here longer remain, let me yet be advertised by Letters from thee, where thou art become, that when our Lord shall be sufficiently provided of gelded men to his Chamberlains, I may write to thee, that thou mayst repair hither again: for I doubt not but at any time thou shalt have entertainment of the Earl: to this answered Fortunatus, saying, You shall little need either to write or send unto me, for so long as I live I mean not to come to this court any more. And therefore I instantly require thee not to disclose my departure, until I have been three days away: which thing Robert promised him, and so he took his leave of him, making semblance as though he were very sorry: Thus this traitorous Judas wrought this knavish device. It was about midnight when every one was at rest, but Fortunatus' head was full of bees, so that every hour seemed unto him three: for he feared lest the Earl should understand of his departure, and so cause him to be stayed. So passing all the night in fear and grief, at the break of day he took his journey on Horseback with Hounds following him as though he had pretended to Hunt, and road so swiftly, that if one of his eyes had fallen out of his head he would scantly have stayed to take 〈◊〉 up.   

How the Earl was exceeding sorry for the sudden departure of Fortunatus. Chap. 4.  
WHen Fortunatus had ridden ten miles, he bought another horse, and sent back again unto the Earl, his Horse and his Hounds, that he might have no occasion to pursue after him. When the Earl understood that Fortunatus had departed without leave, forasmuch as he knew of no cause whereat he might be offended, neither had paid him his wages, he greatly marvelled, and thereupon demanded of all his servants generally and particularly, whether they knew any occasion of his departing. They all denied that they witted thereof, and took their Oaths that they had not by any means to their knowledge grieved him. Then went the Earl to the Ladies & Gentlewomen, requiring likewise of them, whether they had moved him to any displeasure, or whether they misdeemed any cause of his going away without leave. The Countess and all the other Gentlewomen answered, that they witted not of any thing that might offend him either by word or deed: but that in the Evening before his departure he was exceeding merry and pleasant: reporting unto them of the attire of Women, and of many other Usages and Customs of his Country, and that in such corrupt language, as we could not refrain from Laughing, and he himself Laughing with us also; and so with no worse countenance he left our company. Then said the Earl, although the cause of his flight be now concealed from me, I doubt not but hereafter I shall be advertised thereof: and verily if I shall know that any of mine was the occasion of it, I shall be sharply revenged on him; for I know that Fortunatus is not fled without some great cause. I am sure that he hath gotten about 500 Crowns whilst he hath been here: and I had thought he would not have departed hence during his live. But now I perceive well he is not minded to return, seeing he hath taken with him all his jewels and his Substance.  
When Robert perceived that his Lord was so grieved for Fortunatus, great fear fell on him, for he dreaded lest any of his fellows should bewray him, that he was weaned away by his procurement: whereupon he went to every one particularly, requiring them not to disclose his do, which they faithfully promised him; and were very instant to know by what means he brought his purpose so subtly to pass, and that he was so suddenly fled away. At the length to one that was most in his favour, and was more importunate than the rest, he told that Fortunatus had showed him the state of his Father, how he was become po●● and served in the King of Cyprus Court: Whereupon said Robert, I have showed him that a Post was passed this way from the King of Cyprus, towards the King of England, to advertise him of the King of Cyprus death, for they were near of Kindred; which Post reported unto me, that the King had exalted the state of Theodorus his Father, and had given him the Earldom of Anclemus de Teraceno, who died without any Heir, by reason whereof, the Earldom was fallen into the King's hands; for which Theodorus making the first suit obtained it, and both he and his Heirs were therein confirmed by his Letters Patents. When I had told him, he scarcely believed me: and thereupon said, I would my Father had sped no worse, notwithstanding upon this only he is departed. When the other of his fellows heard this, they said among themselves, how uncircumspect was Fortunatus? For if such good fortune chanceing unto him, he had advertised our Earl thereof, doubtless he would have worshipfully set him forth, with certain of us to accompany him, and so should he have been honourably received into his own Country, and also still have retained the favour and friendship of his Lord and Master.   

How Fortunatus came to London, and consumed his Money in the company of Riotous Persons and Harlots. Chap. 5.  
NOw leave we the Earl of Flanders with his men, who knew little how Robert had deceived Fortunatus with a devised lie: howbeit they heard afterwards that Fortunatus did well. Who when he had sent back his Lord's horse, yet fearing lest he should be pursued, traveled with all speed possible, till he come to Calis, where he took shipping, and yet thought himself scantly out of danger even in the midst of the Seas, the fear of gelding so soretroubled his Conscience. When he was arrived in England, setting all fear aside, he took courage again and came to London, which is a great and goodly City, frequented of Merchants from all Countries of Europe. Thither at his arrival was come a Ship from Cyprus, freighted with costly wares, the factors whereof were two young Merchants, who had in Cyprus rich parents: and this being the first journey that ever they undertook, were very unexpert how to behave themselves in strange countries, but only by their Father's instructions. When their ships therefore were unloaden, their Wares sold, great sums of Money received, and the custom discharged, they were lusty and jocund, as such youths commonly be, which have not been accustomed to the handling and use of great treasure. Into the company of these young men chanced Fortunatus, with whom he fell in acquaintance, showing each other friendly countenance in a strange country. These three happened moreover into a rout of other roitous Roisters, and usually frequented with them, by whom they were soon alured to the haunt of Harlots, Gaming, and other riotous demeanour: so that if one had gotten a fair woman, the other would assay to get a fairer, whatsoever it cost him: this life led they the space of half a year, till their money was so wasted, that it was time to look to themselves.   

How the two Cyprus Merchants, when their money was consumed, returned to their Country. Chap. 6.  
Fortunatus' had the least spring, so that his Well was soon emptied: and the others also were drawn almost dry, and had consumed all that they received of their wares, on sumptuous banquets and fair women: and then was all the hot love soon quenched with a cold purse, though they persuaded themselves otherwise, and had often heard that it was scoffingly said unto them, go and fetch more money. In the mean while were the other Merchants of Cyprus ready to repair homewards, and the Master of the Ship gave warning unto the young men to be in a readiness, who went forthwith to their Lodging, to make their accounts with heavy hearts, finding that they had received great sums of money: but that which they should have bestowed in Cloth, Wool, Tin, Led, and other Merchandise, they had consumed on English Beer, Delicate Fare, and women's Flesh. And notwithstanding, though they were now but bare Merchants, yet took they Ship with the rest; and came home without Wares. But how they were entertained of their Father at their return, let them see thereto.   

How Fortunatus was entertained into Service, and how one Andrew a wicked varlet, brought Fortunatus' Master to great trouble, by murdering a Gentleman in his house. Chap. 7.  
When Fortunatus was now also clean money-less, he bethought himse f that if he might get two or three Crowns, he would go into France, there to get him a Master: so went he to his Love, requiring her to lend him a Rival or xv. shillings, saying, that he would go into Flanders to his Uncle, to fetch 400 Crowns, which he had in his custody, before my departure said he, I would fain make good cheer with thee. She coldly answered, saying, Goest thou to fetch Money? God speed thee well, so it be not to my hindrance: whereby he perceived that he had but a cold suit, to wait for money at her hands: and then too late, thought thus in his mind: If I had my money again, I would be more wary on whom I bestowed it: and yet once more tried her, saying, My best Beloved, send for some Wine, and let us yet drink once together  we depart. Whereupon she said to her Maid, go and fetch him a pint of Beer, and let the Ass drink e'er he go: This was the thin thanks that a harlot rendered him for his costly courtesy. Fortunatus being thus abandoned, thought with himself, I must needs serve until I have gained two or three Crowns. So he went to Lombardstreet, where was great resort, enquiring who was destitute of a Servant? There was a rich Merchant of Florence, that retained many Servants, who he set at work in his Traffic, of him was Fortunatus hired for two Crowns a Month, which liked him well. Being Entertained, he was brought Home to his Master, named Jeronimus Roberti, whom he served at the Table very handsomely; whereby he perceived that Fortunatus had been well trained up in civil company: so that in process of time, he sent him to Bestow the Merchandise into the Ships, and to receive other that came into the Realm, in which Affairs he behaved himself very well. About the time when Fortunatus served Jeronimus Roberti, there was a Florentine named Andrew, the Son of a rich Merchant, to whom his Father had given much Goods, and sent him therewithal to Bruges in Flanders, which he unthriftily in short time consumed: And being therewith not satisfied, took up also more Money by Bills of Exchange, making his Father believe that he would send him many Rich Merchandizes. This he used so long, till his Father was able to disbursed no more Money, but waited still to receive the Wares which he looked for from his Son, which are yet to come. When he unthrifty Varlet had consumed all, and lost his credit, so that no man would lend, nor give, nor trust him for any more, he pretended to return again into Florence, to spy out there some old Widow whom he might abuse. As he traveled home, he came into a Town of France called Turn, where there lay in Prison a Rich Gentleman of England, a Citizen of London, which thing when his Host had declared unto him, he asked if he might speak with the Prisoner. The Host said, I will bring you thither, but he is so fast imprisoned, that it is pitiful to behold. When Andrew came to the Prisoner he spoke good English: whereof the Prisoner was glad, ask him whether he knew one Jeronimus Roberti at London: He answered, I know him right well, and he is my good friend. Then answered the Prisoner; Good Andrew, would God I might entreat thee to go to London, and require Jeronimus Roberti to do his best that I may be delivered; he is my near acquaintance, and knoweth my ability; whatsoever he shall lay out for me, I shall restore it to him in threefold. For if thou wouldst do this diligently in my behalf, I will give thee for thy pains five hundred Crowns, and also procure thee a good Office. Thou shalt show my friends also, that thou hast spoken with me, and request them to become sureties for me to Jero●imus. Andrew made a promise to the Prisoner to deal truly in the matter, and so traveled towards London; where de●●●●ing the matter to Jeronimus Roberty, he was well contented, so that he might have for one Crown three. And although he knew the same Andrew to be a lewd fellow, nevertheless he said unto him, go to his friends, and try if thou canst in the King's Court provide sureties for me, and then will I be ready to disbursed the money. Andrew went forth to search the Prisoners friends, to whom he declared how the case stood with him, and that he lay in prison fast bound. His friends seemed little to regard his misery, but willed him to go to the King or his Counsel, and show them thereof, for he went on the King's service. When he came to the Court, and could have no redress in the matter, he heard say the King of England had espoused his Daughter to the Duke of Burgundy, and that thither he meant presently to send certain jewels of great price, the carriage whereof he had committed to a certain Gentleman which had Wife and Children resident in London.  
As Andrew understood in the Court that such sumptuous jewels was committed to such a Gentleman, he inchroached into his company, saying, That he was certified that the King would send certain costly jewels to the Duke of Burgundy by him: wherefore he prayed him friendly if it were Lawful that he would permit him to see them: For, said he, I am a jeweller also; and hearing at Florence that the King made enquiry for the most expert in our faculty, I have traveled so far, in hope the King would buy some of me. The plain-meaning Gentleman said unto him, stay here a while till I be dispatched, and then shall you go with me, where I will show them unto you. Anon after he came again to Andrew and took him home to his House, being then Dinnertime: Wherefore he said, we will first Dine, lest my Wife be displeased. So receiving of him Courteous Entertainment, when Dinner was done, he carried him to his Chamber, and there opening a fair Armoury, brought out of it a Coffer, wherein were the jewels which he willee him to view at his pleasure. The jewels were very precious, amounting to the valued of threescore Thousand Crowns, and the more one beheld them, the fairer they seemed. Andrew praised them greatly, and said, I have yet some, that if they were as well set as these be, would no doubt disgrace some of these. The Gentleman liked this well, thinking with himself, if he have so costly jewels, the King will yet surely bestow more money. Andrew said, to morrow shall you dine with me, in Jeronimus Roberty his house, where I will show you my jewels. This liked the Gentleman well. Andrew went incontinently to Jeronimus Roberti, and said, I have found out a man in the Court, who I trust will assist me to deliver the Prisoner, and that you should have good suretyship in the King's customhouse. That liked Jeronimus well. Andrew said moreover, I pray you appoint the dinner to morrow somewhat the costlier, for I shall bring him with me to dine with us. The next day brought Andrew the Man with him; but before they sat down at the board, he privily warned Jeronimus, that he should not find much talk of the Prisoner, for the matter must be secretly conveyed. They sat down to their meat and were merry, and lingered somewhat long, but Jeronimus risen from the board, and went into his study: at the last said Andrew to the Gentleman, come you up with me into my Chamber, and I will show you my jewels. So they went up together into a Chamber that was over the Hall where whey dined, and there Andrew making an offer, as though he would have opened a great Coffer, drew his Knife privily, and sticked the Gentleman that he sunk down, and therewith stepped unto him and cut his throat. That done, he took from his thumb a gold King, wherein his Seal was graven, and took his Keys from his girdle, and so ran swiftly to the Gentleman's House, and said to his Wife, Mistress, your husband hath sent me unto you, willing you to send him the jewels which he shown me yesterday, and for a token of truth doth he send you here his King and the Keys of his Armoury. The Woman believing his words, searched narrowly, but found not the jewels in none of the three Armouries. Then gave she him the Keys again, and said; Go and show him that we can find none, let him come himself and fetch them where they lie. Andrew being sore afraid that he had committed so shameful a murder, and yet was fustrate of his purpose, he purposed to fly incontinently. In the mean while that he went to the Gentleman's house, the blood soaked down thorough the boards into the Hall, which when Jeronimus espied, he ask his man from whence came that blood, who ran up to see, and sound the good Gentleman slain. Whereat they were sore astonished, and witted not for fear what to do.   

How Andrew escaping, Jeronimus with his retinue were imprisoned for the Murder. Chap. 8.   Scene from Chapter 8 
AS they stood thus amazed, came the Varlet Andrew, on whom they all cried, saying, What hast thou done in murdering this man? He answered; The naughty Knave would have murdered me, hoping to have found costly jewels about me, and therefore I had lither kill than be killed. Be still therefore and make no outcry, I will cast the carcase into the privy, and if any enquiry be made for him, say ye, soon after dinner he departed, and since that we saw him not. So when he had conveyed the dead body into the privy, he hasted night and day to avoid the Country, fearing to stay any where lest he should be pursued, and so suffer some rigorous death for his heinous fact, yea when he was fled as far as Venice: wherefore he there offered himself to be a Rower in a Galley that went to Alexandria. Where as soon as he was arrived, he renounced the Christian faith, and thereupon was the better-estéemed, and safe from the danger of the murder, although he had slain an hundred Christians. The same day that the murder was committed, came Fortunatus home to London, from Sandwich, where he had laden certain Wares of his Masters into a ship. And when he perceived that he was not so joyfully welcome as he was wont, and that his Master, his companions, and the rest of the household were not so merry as he had left them, he mused greatly, and thereupon demanded of the chief Maiden, what had chanced in his absence, that they all shown such heavy countenance. The discreet housewife which her Master loved well, said unto him, be not thou troubled Fortunatus, for our Master hath received Letters from Florence, that one of his dear Friends is dead, whom he so entirely loved as his own Brother? howbeit he was not so near of Kin, that it should be requisite to wear Mourning Garments for him. Fortunatus hearing this, made no more ado, but seemed also to be sorry with them. Now the Gentleman's Wife forasmuch as her Husband came not home, neither sent any word to show the cause of that stay, marvelled much, and that night quieted herself: But in the morning speedily she sent one of her friends to the Court to inquire whether her Husband were there, or that the King had sent him any other way. When the Kings Counsel heard that enquiry was made for him, they wondered that he appeared not in the Court. And when the King also was certified hereof, he commanded a Messenger forthwith to go to his house, and to see whether he were there, and had the jewels about him. For the King somewhat misdeemed of the matter, fearing lest peradventure he were gone clean away with the jewels: and though he supposed him to be an Honest man, yet thought he it not unlikely that he might be tempted with the great value of his Charge. So when every man had asked each of other, and no man could give certain resolution where that Gentleman was become, the King willed that his House should be incontinently searched for the jewels: For although he loved the Gentleman well, yet enquired he more earnestly for the jewels, than for the Man. When the Woman was asked for her Husband and for the jewels, and what he said at his departure? She answering, said, It is now the third day since I saw him, and when he departed, he told me he went to Dine with one of F●orence, and in the after noon he sent one unto me with his Signet and his Keys, willing me to send him the jewels. The Messenger moreover signified unto me, that he was in the House of Jeronimus Roberti, where were (as he said) many jewels also, and that he would confer the one sort with the other. So I led him into the Chamber, and with those Keys opened the Armoury, but the jewels could we by no means find, so that the man returned unwillingly without them. Then demanded they of her, whether he had any several places of custody? She answered: none: For all the chiefest things whereof he maketh account, as Deeds, Letters, Seals, and such like, doth he lay up in the Armony. The jewels were once there also, but none at that time, for if they had, I would have sent them unto him. The searchers hearing this, broke up all the Coffers, Chests, and Cupboards in the house, and yet the jewels could they not find: whereat the King's Messengers were greatly astonished, and the Gentlewoman exceedingly amazed to see her house so misused. When this was told the King, it grieved him more for the jewels, than for the money that was bestowed on them; For that although he had money enough at will, yet he could not have the like jewels at his pleasure. The King and his Counsel being in this perplexity, witted not what was best to do, but in the end concluded to apprehend Jeronimus Roberti with all his Family, that they should give an account what was become of the man; which was so done the fifh day after the Gentleman was murdered. So the Sheriff waiting till suppertime, entered the house, where he found them all together: Namely, the two Masters, the two Servants of Accounts, a Cook, a Horse-kéeper, two Maidens, and Fortunatus. So that there were in the whole nine Persons, which were all brought to Prison, and placed every one apart from the other, and examined whether the two men were become? They answered all alike, that presently after Dinner they went their way, and since that they never saw nor heard of them. But the Sheriff not therewith content, took all the keys of the House, and narrowly searched the Stables, Cellars, and Warehouses, where they might have buried the man, and yet found him not. But as they were departing, one amongst the Searchers, who had a burning Torch in his hand, setting therewithal on fire a handful of straw, cast it into the privy, and so lookfng down, espied the dead body with the Legs upward; and therewith cried, Alas for pity the man lieth here murdered in the privy. Then drew they him out, being filthy and loathsome, and laid him openly before Jeronimus Roberty his door. When the Citizens of London understood of this heinous murder, they made such an outcry upon the Florentines and Lumbards', that they were fain to keep them close in their Houses, lest if they were seen abroad, they should be beaten down by the people.  
This tidings was speedily brought to the King, who commanded to rack the Master and all the rest, whereby the Truth might be bolted out, and that their confessions should be severally written, and especially concerning the jewels. So the Executioner first racked Jeronimus very grievously, enticing him therewithal, to manifest who committed the murder, and where the jewels were bestowed? Jeronimus perceiving by the extreme pain he was put to, that the King and his Officers had intelligence of the murder committed in the House, without his knowledge or consent, therefore he was exceeding sorry. And when he saw there was no remedy but patience, he declared how every thing had happened, showing that one Andrew had required him to prepare a costly dinner, signifying that he should bring a Gentleman to dinner with him, whom he had procured to assist him to deliver a Prisoner that was in Turn in France, which thing (said he) I did for the honour of the King, and the whole Realm, neither witted I of any thing else. Now when dinner was done, I took no regard of them, but went to my study to write; and when I had done, coming forth again, I espied blood dropping from the Chamber above, into the Hall; whereat I being astonished, sent my servant to see what it should be, who shown me as it was. And as it happened, at that very instant came in this Varlet Andrew, to whose charge I laid this murder, who answered, saying, the other would have murdered me, but by God's help I prevented his pretence, and flew him, and so cast him into the Privy: and therewith he suddenly fled, and where he is become I wots not. The very same in every respect did all the other affirm, when they were all racked. But Fortunatus confessed nothing, though he were racked likewise; for he was not in the house when this mischief betided, and therefore was clean ignorant of the matter.   

How Jeronimus Roberti with all his family were hanged, and how Fortunatus hardly escaped. Chap. 9  
When as by all the policies and extremities they had tried, no farther knowledge could be had, the King wrathfully incensed with anger, caused them all to be  Scene from Chapter 9 hanged on a new pair of Gallows, & their dead bodies to be fa●●ned thereto with Iron chains. And when as they orderly one after another suffered execution, there remained only as yet alive Fortunatus and the Cook. And when Fortunatus was now in this perplexity, not knowing otherwise but that he should be hanged also; he thought with himself, would God I had continued with my Master the Earl, and suffered myself patiently to be gelded, then had I not come to this loathsome and vile death. When the Cook (who was an English man) last of all saw Fortunatus should be executed, he cried with a loud voice, and declared before all the people, that Fortunatus was altogether innocent, and knowing nothing of the matter. Whereupon by great entreaty, and that he was no Florentine, and also unguilty, the Sheriff said unto him, get thee quickly hence, for if thou be found by the way, the women will surely kill thee. So gave he certain men charge to convey him over the water, and so safe conduct him unto the Seaside.  
When Jeronimus with his family were thus dispatched, the King permitted his house to be spoiled: Howbeit the Officers had feathered their nest with the best before. When the Florentines and Lumbards' heard say that such havoc was made of Jeronimus goods, they were sore afraid both of their lives and goods, though they were in nothing guilty: Wherefore they collected among them a great sum of Money, which they sent unto the King, to purchase his good will for their safeguard. The King being much moved with pity, granted them licence to occupy and traffic as they did before.   

How the King's Jewels were found under a bedstead in the Gentlewoman's house, and delivered to the King again. Chap. 10.  
AFter all things in this sort finished, it behoved the King notwithstanding to make farther enquiry for the jewels, on the which as he had bestowed much money before, so on condition he might possess them again, he would be content to have paid for them the second time. Wherefore he caused to be published, that who could bring the first tidings of them, should for a reward have five hundred marks: This was also proclaimed in other Nations, and Letters were written to many Princes and Lords of strange Countries, that if any came to sell such jewels, they should be stayed, and tidings sent thereof: Howbeit there was no news heard of them, although every man would gladly have done therein what lay in his power, only to have gained the reward.  
Thus passed the time, till the Gentlewoman did Solemnize the Funeral Exequys of her Husband at the month's end. And when the time of Chief Mourning was over-passed, invited her Playfellows, Gossips, and Neighbours to make good cheer with her; Amongst whom was one that lately also had lost her Husband, who said, If you will follow my Advice, I will teach you how you shall soon forget the Death of your Husband. Make your bed in another Chamber: or if you list not so to do, remove it from one place to another, and when you go to bed, call to your mind some lusty Young man, whom you would wish to be your Husband, and say to yourself, the Dead with the Dead, and the Living with the Living; for so did I after my Husband's death. Then said the Gentlewoman, Alas good Playfellow, but I loved my Husband so well, and with so good affection, that I cannot forget him so soon. Howbeit, earnestly imprinted the words in her mind: And so soon as the Company was gone, she began to remove the bedsteds, chests, and Coffers, so that unawares by one of the beds-feet she found a little coffer wherein were the jewels: which the Gentlewoman well knowing, set aside for a while, and nevertheless continued her moving till she had done. After that she sent for one of her Kinsmen, to whom she declared that she had found the King's jewels by chance, and that if she had not removed the Bed, they might have lain long enough there unknown, for that none would have sought in such a place for them. So she required his Advice how she might bestow them. Who hearing that the jewels were luckily found, greatly rejoiced, and said to her: If you desire my counsel in this case, and will accept well thereof, I would wish you thus to do: Take the jewels, and I will go with you to make means to speak with the King himself, and to deliver the jewels into his own hands, and also you shall show him the plain truth, by what chance you found them, referring to his courtesy what reward he will give you; for if the jewels should be closely imbeseled from the King, it behoveth to carry them into a strange Country to be sold, where I warrant you he will lay privy wait if any such be offered to the jewellers, and then the King being advertised thereof, all them that have had to do with them, might lose both Body and Goods, and the jewels notwithstanding should be restored to him again.  
This Counsel liked the Woman very well, and so decking herself comely in Widow's attire, went with her kinsman to the Court, there making earnest suit to speak with the King himself. The King being advertised thereof, she was admitted in his presence in the Chamber of State. When she came before the King, she humbly on her knees said; Most gracious Lord, I your poor Handmaid, am come to signify unto your Majesty, that the jewels which were committed unto my Husband your servant, to be delivered unto the Duchess of Burgundy, are found this day under a Bedstead, as I by chance removed my Bed, and so presently with all speed I have made haste to present the same unto your Majesty. The King forthwith opened the Coffer, and found all the jewels as they ought to be, whereof he was exceeding glad, and so delivered them into the jewel-house to be kept. The King also conceived very well of her diligence, for that she would not hazard them on the credit of any other, but delivered them with her own hands: And forasmuch also as through occasion of the jewels she had lost her Husband, he thought in reason that she should by some means or other be recompensed with a special reward, whereby her sorrow might be somewhat diminished: wherefore he caused a certain lusty and courageous Young Gentleman of the Court to be called unto him, to whom he said, I will now request of thee a thing, which I trust thou wilt not deny me. The young Gentleman answered, saying, Gracious Lord, you shall not use such entreaty, but command me what liketh you, and I will be obedient. With that the King forthwith sent for a Chaplain, and even in his presence did he marry these two together, and bestowed on them rich gifts, who lived joyfully one with the other. The Gentlewoman anon after went to her Playfellow and thanked her greatly for the council which she gave her to remove her bedstead, which, said she, if I had not done, the King had not enjoyed his jewels again, neither had I gotten such a fair and lusty young man to my Husband. Therefore I perceive it is good sometimes to follow a friends advice.   

How Fortunatus straying in a Wood was benighted, and in danger of life. Chap. 11.  
NOw return we to show how Fortunatus fared, since he had escaped hanging: for whereas at his departure he was destitute of money, & beset with peril and danger, he speedily conveyed himself out of England, and arrived in Picardy, where he would gladly have served, but could get no Master. So he went further, and was come to Britain, where he adventuring to pass through a large wood, was driven to stay all day long, and could find no way out. And being benighted, he espied an old house, whereas some glass had been made, whereof he was glad, supposing to have found some People therein. But when he came thither, there was no Creature: nevertheless he stayed there all that Night with extreme Hunger and Thirst, and also in great fear of the Wild Beasts which there haunted, greedily longing for the day, and prayed God to help him out of the Wood, lest he should perish for want of food. In the morning he intending to cross the next way out of the Wood, chanced contrariwise in the length thereof: So that the farther he went, the more he strayed; and thus wandered the Second day also with great grief: And when the Night came on, he happened on a Fountain, and being Feeble, for that he had received no sustenance in two days, drank thereof with such an Appetite, that he was thereby somewhat refreshed. As he sat him down by this fountain (the moon shining clear) he heard a noise in the Wood, as if it had been the grunting of Bears: Wherefore he bestirred his stumps, and conveyed himself a little aside out of sight; and therewithal devising how he might best shift to be safe from the force of the Wild-Beasts, he climbed upon a Tree-well freighted with boughs, not far from the Fountain, from whence he beheld many sorts of wild and savage Beasts, coming to drink. Among them all was a Bear not fully grown, which wound Fortunatus, and began to climb up the Tree after him, therewith he was sore afraid. And when he was climbed as high as he was able, he stayed on a bough, drew his sword,  Scene from Chapter 11 and ●●icked the Bear in the head, and wounded him else where in many places, whereupon the fierce Bear so greedily stretched himself at Fortunatus, that the bough broke whereon he stayed, and so fell to the ground. When Fortunatus perceived the coast clear from all other Beasts, save only the Bear that could now scantly remove himself, he descended from the tree and thrust his sword through him, and then ●aying his mouth to the wound, sucked out th● warm blood, wherewith he was somewhat refreshed, and lay down and stepped by the Bear until morning.   

How the Lady Fortune gave to Fortunatus a Purse that never wanted money. Chap. 11.   Scene from Chapter 11 
AS soon as he awaked, he saw standing before him a Fair and Beautiful Woman, muffled over the eyes; wherefore he praised and thanked God devoutly, that yet he beheld some mankind before his death. And to the Woman he said: I beseech thee sweet Virgin for the Love of God to assist me, that I may come out of this Wood, for this is the third day that I have here irksomely wandered without any Meat, and herewith declared to her also what had chanced concerning the Beat. Then demanded she of him, saying: Of what Country art thou, and what moved thee to come hither? He answered, I am of the Isle of Cyprus, and poverty hath constrained me to wander, I force not greatly whether, until such time as God (when it pleaseth him) shall provide for me a competent living. She said, fear not Fortunatus, for I am Lady Fortune, and by the influence of the Heavens, Stars, and Planets, are given me six powers, which I may bestow on one or more, for a long Time, or short Space, according to the Government of the Celestial Planets, and the permission of the Almighty God. The which are; Namely, Wisdom, Riches, and Strength, Health, Beauty, and long Life: Chose one of these six, and make no long nursing, for the Hour of Choice is near hand past. I was sent by the Divine Power to bestow one of these worldly gifts on thee, which thy affection doth most desire. Fortunatus took no long deliberation of the matter, but said, than I desire of Riches such plenty, that I may not lack so long as I live. With that, forthwith she gave unto him a Purse, and said, Receive this same of me, and in what Country soever thou art, as often as thou puttest thy hand into it, thou shalt draw forth ten ●ieces of Gold of the same Nations Coyn. And this Purse shall retain this virtue, during the life of thee, and of thine own Children, whosoever shall possess it, either thou, thy children, or any other; but no longer after your death: therefore esteem it accordingly, and take special care thereof. Then said Fortunatus, Right courteous and beautiful Lady, Forasmuch as you have freely bestowed such an incomparable jewel on me, reason would that I also be bound to do something for your sake, lest that this worthy benefit in time slip out of my Remembrance. She answered him demurely, saying: If thou hadst chosen Wisdom instead of Riches, thou wouldst not have been so careful to yield recompense where it is not deserved: For knowest thou not, that I am guided by the finger of the omnipotent God? And perceivest thou not that mine eyes are muffled not regarding whom I pleasure, nor seeing where I bestow? render thanks therefore only where it is due, unto the Giver of all good Gifts; to whom thou canst yield no better recompense, than of thy riches freely received to bestow on the poor and needy, where, when, and to whom it is expedient.  
Then said Fortunatus, this will I willingly perform to the utmost of my power, and therewith made a solemn Vow, that this day he would evermore keep holy; and in what Country soever he were, he would bestow on the same day four hundred pieces of Gold of that Nations Coin, upon some marriable Virgin, in perpetual remembrance how he first obtained his riches. Then said the Lady, follow me, and she led him by chance (as the blindman casteth his staff) overthwart the Wood into a beaten way, willing him to follow that path without turning on the left hand or the right, and that he should not look where she become, neither any more trust unto her. Fortunatus did as she willed him, and traveled speedily till he came out of the wood, where he espied a great house that was an Inn, where men that passed to and fro the wood, usually refreshed themselves. Before he approached the house, he took the Purse out of his bosom, to try whether the Ladies promise would prove to effect, that he might have therewith to pay his charges; and in putting his hand into the purse, drew out ten Crowns, whereof he was very glad and then entered joyfully into the Inn, calling presently to the Host for the best meat he had, saying, He well would content him, for he was very hungry: that liked the host well, and so he furnished the Table with very good fare.   

How Fortunatus for buying certain great horses which an Earl had before prized, was taken prisoner, and in danger of his life. Chap. 12.  
NOw when Fortunatus had sufficient slacked his hunger and thirst, he rested there three days to refresh his empty stomach, and weary limbs, and at his departure bought of the host a complete harness, and to the intent he might be the sooner entertained; and so discharging the host to his full contentation, departed farther. There was two mile from the wood a little town, with a castle, wherein dwelled an Earl, which had jurisdiction of the Wood granted to him by the Duke of Britain. Fortunatus passing that way, entered the best Inn of the town, and asked of the Host, where he knew any good Horses to be bought? The Host answered, Yesterday came hither a strange Merchant with fifteen fair Palfrays, intending to sell them at the feast that the Duke of Britain doth make to the King's Daughter of Arragon, among which our Earl hath chosen three of the best, and hath offered for them three hundred Crowns, but the Merchant demanded twenty more. Fortunatus being thus certified, went into his Chamber, and privily took out of his Purse six hundred Crowns, which he put into a bag, and said to the Host, where is the Merchant with his Horses? I would fain see them. The Host said, I believe the man will scantly let you see them, for he was very unwilling to show them unto the Earl. Then said Fortunatus, If the Horses like me well, I dare perhaps sooner buy them than the Earl. The Host supposed he had but jested in so boasting himself, being so simply apparelled, and also a footman: yet brought he him to the Horse-Master, with whom he communed so far, that they were brought forth and ridden before him. He liked them all well, but meant to buy only those two that the Earl had cheapened; wherefore he readily delivered for them three hundred and twenty Crowns, and willed them to be brought to his Inn. He bespoke also costly saddles and trim furniture for them, and requested his Host to provide him two comely servitors, to whom he promised to give good entertainment. While●● he was thus furnishing himself after the bravest manner, the Earl had intelligence that he had bought the horses which he thought to have had; whereat he was greatly displeased, and inwardly vexed, especially for that he was so disappointed, when as he purposed to accompany many Noble Estates at the solemn Wedding Feast Wherefore in great indignation he sent one of his Men unto the Innkeeper, to demand what manner of man he was, that had so spitefully bought the Horses out of his hands: The Host said he knew him not, but that he came into the Inn as a Footman, howbeit furnished with Armour as a Horseman, requiring me to procure Horses for him, and promised therefore gladly to content me. But after he had once dined with me, I liked him so well, that except he had paid me for the first, I would not have trusted him for the second, lest he should have beguiled me. Then said the Servant angrily to the Host: Wherefore would you seem to wain him to the horses? The Innkeeper answered, therein have I done as every honest Host ought to do for his Guest in such a case. And although he required me to go with him to cheapen such fair horses, yet I thought him scant able to buy silly Asses.   

How Fortunatus was taken Prisoner, and straightly examined concerning the Purse. Chap. 13.  
THe Servant returned with his answer to the Earl; who being informed that he was no gentleman, commanded his men in a great rage to lay hands on him; saying, that he had surely committed some great Robery, or murdered some man. The servants executed his Commandment, and enclosed him in a loathsome Prison, ask from whence, and what he was?  
He answered, I was born in a Town of Cyprus, called Famagosta, and I am the Son of a poor Gentleman.  
Then asked the Earl by what means he got so much money? He said, My money is my own, truly gotten, and therefore I trust your honour will not rigorously enforce me to recount from whence I had it: but if any man can prove or say that I have done wrong to any creature, or come untruly by it, I shall willingly stand to thy Law and mercy. To this, said the Earl, thy prating will not avail thee; but thou shalt ere thou depart confess from whence and how thou hast obtained this money: with that caused they him to be brought to the rack; when Fortunatus saw how extremely he should be dealt withal, he was sore afraid, howbeit he purposed rather to die, than to open the secret Virtues of his Purse. But when he was Racked, and felt the grievous pangs and torments thereof, he cried to them to unlose him, and promised to utter whatsoever they would ask. Then being again demanded how he came by so many fair Crowns? He said: After I had wandered three days long in the Wood, and with much ado at length came out into the fields, I found a Purse wherein were six Hundred and Ten Crowns. Then asked the Earl where is that Purse? Fortunatus' said, When I had told the Money, I put it in my own bag, and cast the Purse into the River that runneth by the Wood The Earl said, Thou Varlet wilt thou rob me of that is mine? Thou shalt well understand that both thy Body and Goods are forfeited unto me, forasmuch as whatsoever is in the Wood is mine own. Then said Fortunatus, Gracious Lord, I witted not of your jurisdiction therein, for I thanked God therefore, and esteemed it as a Gift. And thinkest thou, said the Earl, this to be sufficient excuse for thee? Didst thou never hear say, That he which is ignorant must ask? Therefore to be short, prepare thyself, for to Day will I take from thee thy Goods, and to Morrow thy Life. Then thought Fortunatus with himself, miserable wretch that I am, how uncircumspect was I, having the free Election on six Gifts, that I chose not Wisdom before the rest, for than I had not fallen into this danger and thraldom. And then he craved for mercy, saying: O gracious Lord, have compassion on the poor wand'ring wight, and seek not my death, which will nothing avail you: take unto you the goods found, which be yours, and spare me my life which God hath lent me, and I will evermore pray truly for your good estate.  
The Earl was very loath to pardon him, because he feared lest he might make ill report of his rigour where he should become, which might turn to his reproach among other Noble Estate, they hearing thereof. Notwithstanding he being moved to mercy, by the instance of his men, granted him his Life, but bereft him of all his goods, saving only the Harnass, which he rendered to him again, with a Crown also in his Purse.  
The Earl moreover in the morning before day commanded his Men to bring him without the Town, and there to take an Oath of him, that he should never again come into his jurisdiction, so long as he lived. Fortunatus inwardly rejoiced, that he had so well escaped, for if the Earl had but known the truth, most likely he had been bereft of his most precious Purse. After this came Fortunatus to Angiers, which is the chief Town of Britain, situated by the Sea-Coast, where were then lodged many Lords and Noble Estates, abiding the coming of the Duchess, whom they purposed to welcome with all kind of martial games, dancing, masking, and other such triumphant pastimes. Of this was Fortunatus very glad: and being desirous to advance himself among them, thought thus with himself, if I should do in all points as I might if I list, peradventure I should be served as I was lately by the Earl.  
Howbeit he adventured yet once again to buy three fair horses with costly furniture, and hired two servants, clothing both them, and himself presently in trim apparel, and so lodged in the best Inn of Angiers, there meaning to wait the Duchess coming, and to receive her in the Company of other Gentlemen. So the Duchess being landed, was met by many Nobles and great Estates, and so conveyed to Angiers, where the Duke held a great Feast for the space of six weeks and three days.   

How Fortunatus entertained an Irish Gentleman to be his Guide and Companion in travelling. Chap. 14.  
Fortunatus' delighted in the company of such lusty Gallants, and with the sight of many sumptuous shows, used very often to go and come to the Court with his goodly Horses and his two men, leaving nothing ought worth behind him in the Inn: Which the Host misliked, forasmuch as he knew him not, fearing lest he would give him the slip, and leave him in the lurch for his charges, as others had done at the like Feast before time. Therefore said he unto Fortunatus: Good Friend, (fithence I have so small acquaintance with you as you know) I pray you let me be discharged for that you have had every day, before you ride to the Court. With that Fortunatus smiled, and said to the Host, I mean not to departed without contenting you to the uttermost; and for a sufficient testimony to satisfy thy mind, take here of me these hundred Crowns, and when thou thinkest that I or mine that come with me, have spent the value thereof, tell it me, and I will give thee more, neither will I look for any strait account of thee. The Host received the money, and after that much more reverently esteemed of Fortunatus, veiling his Bonnet always when he passed by: setting him in the worthiest Room at the Table, with the best; and placed him in a fairer Chamber than he had before.  
As Fortunatus sat at the board with many other Lords, thither resorted many other Musicians to make Mirth and Pastime for Money. Amongst others came before them a Lusty Old Man, declaring unto them his Poverty: and said moreover that he was a Gentleman of Ireland, and that in seven years' space he had traveled throughout ten Empires, and twenty Kingdoms, whereby said he, I am driven to this poor estate, an● therefore I beseech your honours to assist ma● with your courteous liberality towards m● Charges, to pass home into my Country. A● certain Earl sitting at the Board, willed him to name all the Countries through which h● had passed.  
The Old Gentleman did as he was requested truly and at large: and said furthermore there is few of these Kingdoms but hath also a● the least three or four Dukes under it, besides other Earls and Lords, both Spiritual and Temporal: All these have I seen, which hav● every one their proper Language, whereof I learned so much, as if need were, I could express my mind in any of them. I have moreover in writing, the name of every King that then reighned when I was in his Court and the True Distance of every Kingdom from the other.  
The Earl said, would God I had been with thee every where, so I were here again as I am; and therewith gave him four Crowns, and offered him also if he would stay there whilst the Feast lasted, to pay for his charges. The Gentleman greatly thanked him for his Gift and gentle proffer, and said he much longed to see his Friends and native Country, and therefore was loath any longer to stay. Fortunatus had given good ear to the talk of the old Gentleman, and thought in his mind, if I might have him to guide me through strange Countries, I would richly reward him. So presently after dinner he sent for the Gentleman, and asked his name, who answered, I am called Leopoldus. Then said Fortunatus, I perceive even now by your words that you have wandered throughout many Countries and Kingdoms, I am a Young Man, earnestly disposed to pass my youth in travel, for Experience and Wisdom: If thou therefore wilt vouchsafe, to be my Guide and Companion, I will give thee a goodly Horse for thyself, and another for thy Man, whom I will maintain to Attend on thee, allowing you what Money you will with reason spend, and will esteem thee as my Brother.  
Then said Leopoldus, I could be right well content to enjoy such courteous entertainment, but alas I am old, and have wife and children, that wots not what is become of me, and therefore Natural Love doth compel me to return home again.  
Then said Fortunatus, If thou wilt agree to fulfil my request, I likewise faithfully promise thee, that I will go with thee also into Ireland, and will moreover endow thyself, thy wife, and thy children, (if they be alive) with riches sufficient, if our journey speed well, and that we may safely return to Famagosta, (that lieth in the Isle of Cyprus) I will there provide thee a House, Man-servants, and maidens, and all other things necessary during thy life, if thou list there to stay.  
Leopoldus' thought with himself, this young man promiseth me very much, and if he be able to perform it accordingly, it falleth out luckily for me in my old age: and therewith said to Fortunatus, I am content to grant your Request, so far as you accomplish your promise. But I would not wish you to take upon you such a matter, except you have so much ready money as shall be requisite, for Travel requireth infinite charges, if we look to be well entertained.  
Then said Fortunatus: For money care thou not, for in every Country can I get enough. Be content therefore to promise that thou wilt remain with me to my full journey's end. He said again: Promise you me also to give that you bequested. Thus did they Faithfully vow, the one not to forsake the other, what Danger soever might betid. When they were thus both agreed, Fortunatus gave to Leopoldus two hundred Crowns, saying: Go and buy two fair Horses, and hire thee a Servant, or if thou list, a couple; and when that money is spent, I will give thee more: Leopoldu, thinking this to be a good beginning, furnished himself lustily with a Horse & a Man. The like did Fortunatus also, and took with him but two Servants and a Page; so that they were in all six persons. Then agreed they upon the gests of their journey, determining first to Travel over the whole Empire of Rome, and so took their ne●● way by Norem-Berge, Word, Ausburg, Norlingen, Usme, Constance, Bazil, Strasburg, Ments, Colen, and so from Colen to Bruges in Flanders, and from thence to London in England, which is the chief City of the Realm, and so next to Edenbourgh, the head City in Scotland, which is nine days journey from London.   

How Fortunatus accompanied his man home, where they went together to St. Patrick's Purgatory. Chap. 15.   Scene from Chapter 15 
ANd when they were there, they had yet three days journey into Ireland, whereas Leopoldus dwelled: when they were arrived in London; Leopoldus requested his Master to go with him to his House, which was in a Town called Waldrink: where at his return he found his wife and children as he had left them, saving that one of his sons & one of his daughters were married, which all were glad of his coming. And whereas Fortunatus considered that Leopoldus had no more Provision than was needful for his household, he gave him an hundred crowns to ordain all things after the most sumptuous manner, against he should come to make good cheer with him. Wherefore Leopoldus made provision of great plenty of delicate victuals, and bad his Children with their husbands and wives, and many other friends and neighbours to accompany his Master at that Feast. So there was kept such bountiful hospitality for that time, that all the Town fared the better for him.  
Fortunatus after the feast was ended, called unto him Leopoldus, and said: Thou must now again take thy leave of thy Wife and Children: Wherefore receive here of me three Purses, in each of them is five hundred Crowns, whereof thou shalt give one to thy wife, another to thy son, and the third to thy daughter for a farewell, that they may have sufficient whereby to live when thou art gone.  
Leopoldus greatly thanked him for his liberal gifts, and therewith made his wife and children exceeding glad. Fortunatus' understanding that two days journey from thence was St. Patr●cks Purgatory, he was very desirous to see the same. Whereupon they road unto the City Vernecks, wherein is an Abbey, and there behind the high Altar in the Church is a door, within the which is a deep dark Hole, the same do men call St. Patrick's Purgatory: But none may go into it without licence of the Abbot. Whereupon Leopoldus obtained leave of him, of whom he was demanded of what Country his Master was? he answered, of the Isle of Cyprus: Whereupon the Abbot invited Fortunatus to Dinner, which pleased him well. So at his coming he presented the Abbot with a Vessel of the best Wine he could get. The Abbot yielded unto him great Thanks, for in that Country they seldom use any Wine, except it be in Ministering the Sacrament. When the Dinner was finished, Fortunatus said unto the Abbot. May it please your Honour to let me understand upon what occasion this Hole first was named St. Patrick's Purgatory? The Abbot answered, saying: Many hundred Years since was this Town and this Abbey a Desolate Wilderness, and not far from it dwelled an Abbot called Patrick, who was a very Devout Man. He oftentimes resorting to this Desert, to do some work of penance, one day by chance found this long and deep Hole, into the which he went so far, that he could not return. With that he fell on his knees, praying unto God instantly, that (if it were his pleasure) he would deliver him out of that dark dungeon: whilst he thus devoutly prayed, it seemed to him that he heard yet further of a piteous cry. In the mean while suddenly he was delivered out of the Hole: Wherefore he joyfully Praising the Lord for his mercy, went again into the Cloister, and became more devout than ever he was before. And so in perpetual memory of this chance, was this Abbey builded by devout men. Fortunatus then asked farther what the Pilgrims reported that came thence out again? The Abbot said, I seldom inquire of them: but some say, they have heard a pitiful shrieking: others report they have neither seen nor heard any thing at all, but that they have been sore afraid. Then said Fortunatus: I am come from far Countries to this place, and if I should return home without some certain Trial of such a Monument in my own Person, it should be a reproach to me: therefore will I not go hence till I have been in the Hole. Then said the Abbot, If you will needs adventure, beware you go not too far in, for there be many byways wherein you may go astray, as many others have done in my time, which have not been found till three days after. Fortunatus' asked of Leopoldus whether he would adventure in with him? He said: Yea, I will go into any place with you so long as God spares me Life. That liked Fortunatus well: Whereupon they receiving the holy Sacrament: on the next morrow, the Priest let them in, blessed them, and shut the Door after them. There they wand'ring in the dark, at the length witted not to go backward or forward, for they soon went astray; neither could they hear the calling of the Priest in the morning, whereon they trusted, and the bolder adventured.  
Thus they not knowing how to help themselves, and being very hungry and faint, they wholly despaired of all succour, & dreaded their lives, they sat down as men forlorn, neither hearing nor seeing any thing at all, and therewith made their humble prayers unto God; Saying: Almighty Lord, assist us with thy Power, by some means or other, for in this loathsome Den, neither Silver nor Gold can aught avail, though we have it at will, but in thee only is our trust. The Priest in the mean while signified unto the Abbot, that the Pilgrims were not as yet come out again, whereof he was very sorry; especially because of Fortunatus, who had presented him so liberally. The Servants also at the Door watched continually, and greatly lamented for their Masters: But the Abbot notwithstanding remembered himself of an old Man, who many years before had measured the Hole with a Cord, for him he sent, and requested him to try whether he could bring forth the men. The Servants also promised him an hundred Crowns for his pains. The old man said if they be yet alive, I shall sure bring them forth; and therewith prepared a musical instrument, played on it, and so passed from one hole to the other, until he had found them, being very feeble and faint; whom he willed to take hold of him, and so follow the sound of his Instrument, as the blind followeth his guide. So by the help of God, and the old man's assistance came they again to the light, whereof the Abbot was very glad: for he feared if those two Pilgrims had been lost, that no more would have resorted thither, whereby he and his Covent should far the worse. The men also told Fortunatus that they had promised an hundred Crowns to the old men for searching them out, which he forthwith delivered with great thanks. He ordained also a sumptuous dinner, whereto he invited the Abbot and his brethren, thanking God for his deliverance out of so great danger. He gave also unto them for a Farewell, five hundred Crowns, to the intent they should pray for his prosperous success. Then took they their leave of the Abbot, and setting forward to accomplish their purposed journey, traveled back the next way to Calais, and from thence to St. Joss in Picardy, and so by Paris, through France, Spain, Naples, and Rome, unto Venice.   

How Fortunatus went to Constantinople, to the Coronation of the young Emperor. Chap. 16.   Scene from Chapter 16 
WHen they were come to Venice, they heard say that the Emperor of Constantinople would have his Son Crowned Emperor; and for that he was himself very old, he would yield up unto him the whole Authority and jurisdiction of the Empire, for the term of both their lives: whereupon the Venetians appointed a worshipful Ambassador to pass to the young Emperor in a Galley, and to deliver unto him certain jewels sent in token of gratulation from them. Fortunatus therefore bargained with the Master of the Galley, so that he had his men passed therein to Constantinople, which is a great and famous City. Thither were assembled such a number of people of divers Nations, that there was very hardly any lodging to be had: and although the Venetians had assigned a house for their use, yet would they admit no stranger under them, so that Fortunatus and his men seeking long for a lodging, at the last they chanced on one (such as it was) whereof the Host was a thief. There continued they a great while, going every day forth to see the Triumphs and Royalties of the Emperor's Court, whereof much might be written.  
Fortunatus always when he went abroad, caused his Chamber door to be fa●● locked, supposing then all things to be safe. But the Host had a privy entrance into the Chamber, where the greatest bedstead was, through the feeling, whereout he had taken a board, and set it in again that none might perceive it, and there entered he in and out when he listed. And when they were all abroad, he would search the Males and Budgets, and could find no money. Wherefore he thinking of likelihood that they carried their money with them sowed in their Doublets: when as they reckoned with him for their charges, he marked diligently from whence they took the money, and perceived that Fortuna●us took it from under the Table, and g●ve it to Leopol●us, who paid the Host, abating no penny; for so he was willed always to do. But the Host was not therewith content, but would gladly also have had both the money and the purse. About this time was the day at hand, wherein he had vowed in memorial of Lady Fortune's Gift, to bestow ●our hundred pieces of Gold towards the marriage of some poor maiden. Wherefore he asked of the Host, whether he knew any poor honest man that had a daughter marriageable, and was not able to bestow her for lack of ability: such a one, said he, bring unto me, and I will bestow largely on her to prefer her marriage. The Host said, of such you may have plenty; and to morrow I will bring you an honest man, who shall bring with him a modest and comely maiden. This liked Fortunatus very well. But than thought the Host with himself, this night will I rob him of his money before he bestow it. So the same night did he convey himself into their chamber through the see●ing, when they were all asleep, and searched their , supposing to have found great sums of money in their Doublets, but therein he was foully deceived. Howbeit out of Leopoldus purse he took forty ducats, and handled Fortunatus' purse on the outside also: but when he felt no money therein, he cast it under the bed-s●ed; which when he had done, he went forth, and set open the door and the windows, as though some strange thiefs had been there.  
When Leopoldus awaked, and saw the windows and door open, he rebuked the men for their negligence, but the servants being fast asleep, started up suddenly half amazed, saying: That they also were ignorant thereof. With that Leopoldus was greatly afraid, and looked for his Purse, which he perceived to be cut off, and a piece of the string hanging yet at his girdle. Then called he to Fortunatus, saying: Our Chamber is burst open, and the Money which you delivered me is stolen. Fortunatus forthwith looked to his doublet, and perceiving his fortunate Purse to be cut away also, he was therewith astonished, that he sunk down in a swound as though he were dead. Leopoldus and the other Servants not knowing of this great loss, rubbed and refreshed him, so that his spirits were revived again.  
As they were thus affrighted and in great perplexity, in came the Host, and set a grim countenance on the matter, ask angrily what ailed them to be so unquiet? they told him that they were rob of their money; then said he: What careless men are ye? have ye not a close Chamber with lock and key? why then did ye not make all things fast and sure? They answered: When we went to bed, we both shut the windows and locked the door, but now we find them all open. Then said the Host: Look that you have not one rob another, and there be also at this present many strangers and lusty Fellows in the City, who perhaps had more skill to break into your Chamber than we wots of. Howbeit when he saw them in such sorrowful plight, he asked of Fortunatus whither he had lost any great sum of money? He said: Not much. Then said the Host, Why then do you so take on and disquiet yourself for a little Money? yesterday you would have bestowed a poor man's daughter in marriage: Spare now the Money and bestow it on yourself. Then said Fortunatus: I care more for the Purse than for the Money, for there is in it a Bill of exchange of great importance which can profit none but myself. When the Host saw that Fortunatus was so sad and heavy for his Purse (though he was a desperate and hardhearted fellow) yet was he moved with some Compassion; saying: Let us yet search narrowly about the Chamber: Perchance we may find it, for no thief regardeth an empty Purse. With that every man began to search, and one of them creeping under the bedstead, found the Purse, and shown it Fortunatus, who presently knew the same: but yet feared greatly lest that by the cutting it had lost its Virtue, which he sore longed to know, but durst not as yet make trial in his fight; for he misdoubted the worst, that if any had known the quality of the Purse, they would have murdered him for it. So then lay he down in his Bed again, and privily under the Covering put his Hand in the Purse, and found that it retained still the virtue it had before: whereof he was exceeding glad. Howbeit he was so sore affrighted with fear, and vexed with anger and sorrow before, that he could not so soon perfectly recover again his former strength and colour, but remained so in his bed all that day. Leopoldus came to comfort him, saying: Good Sir pluck up your lively spirits, and be content, we have left fair Horses, Chains, and Rings of Gold and other jewels: so although we have no money, we will sell all these things, and by Gods help bring you safe home again: for I have full often passed many Countries without money; For Leopoldus thought in his mind that Fortunatus had riches sufficient at home, if he might attain thither. But Fortunatus answered faintly, and said: he that looseth goods, looseth understanding; Wisdom is to be chosen before Riches,: also health, strength, beauty, and long life, can no man steal; and therewith held his peace. Leopoldus witted not what he meant by those affectionate words, neither knew he which he had chosen of all these gifts: And supposing that such sudden passions proceeded of the lightness and disturbance of his head, was no farther inquisitive to know his meaning. Howbeit after a while, Fortunatus being with warm meat refreshed, his Colour was restored, and began to be merry again, commanding his Servants to provide Candles to keep light in the Chamber all the Night long, and that they should have their naked Swords ready drawn by them, to prevent the like Attempt of thiefs. In the morning went Fortunatus with his men into the Church of Sephia, and there gave to the Priests ten pieces of Gold, that they should in our Lady's Chapel which was fair and sumptuous, cause a Sermon to be made, and Te Deum to be sung to the praise of God. From thence went he to the place where Merchants and Exchangers resorted, and willed all his men to go home to tend the Horses, and prepare their dinner: and delivered to Leopoldus certain money to buy five Purses, saying: I will go to my Exchanger to take up some money, of which we may not in any case be long destitute. When Leopoldus had bought the Purses, Fortunatus put in one of them an hundred ducats, which he delivered to Leopoldus to be disbursed upon ordinary expenses. He gave also to each of his three men a Purse with ten ducats therein, and said unto them, be merry and wise, take good heed that no such danger befall unto us, as hath of late happened. They all thanked him, and promised their diligent and careful service to their uttermost power. He moreover put four hundred ducats into the fifth purse, sending for the Host, to whom he said, do I pray as I request concerning some Poor man's Daughter, on whom I purpose to bestow liberally toward her marriage. The Host said, I will bring unto you a Man with his Daughter, that you may see them. With that he went to the Poor Man, and told him he had a Rich Guest; take (said he) your Daughter with you, and go with me, and thou shalt see how well the matter shall fall out for your Commodity as I trust.   

How Fortunatus bestowed four hundred Ducats towards the Marriage of a poor Maiden. Chap. 17.  
THe Maiden's Father was a joiner, an honest & homely fellow, who said to the host I would be loath to bring my Daughter any where abroad, I wots not to whom, lest she should be abused & lose her virginity, which is the chiefest jewel that she hath to make her fit for a husband: therefore tell the gentleman if he mean to do her any good, that if it please him he may come hither to see her. Hereat was the host displeased, & declaring his uncourteous answer, supposed that Fortunatus would be therewith offended also: but he took it in good part, and was well content. And taking Leopoldus with him, willed the host to bring him to the man's house, to whom he said: My host here hath given me to understand that thou hast a fair daughter, which is at woman's state, let her come unto me with her mother. He asked, for what intent? Perhaps, said Fortunatus, more for thy commodity than thou wottest of. With that the poor man called forth his wife & his daughter, which were ashamed of their homely apparel, especially the bashful maiden, which hovered behind her mother's back. Howbeit she was both fair & wellfavoured: to whom Fortunatus said: Stand forth fair Virgin before me, and be not abashed. Then asked he her Father of her age, who said: She is full twenty years old. Then said he, Why have you kept her so long unmarried? to which the Mother made quick speed to answer before her husband, saying, she was tall and old enough six years agone, but she wanted ability to marry her. Then said Fortunatus, if I would bestow on her a large dowry, could you forthwith find out a fit husband for her? Then said the mother: Our neighbour hath a Son who beareth unto her good Will, who I know but only for want of wealth would take her to his Wife. Then asked he the maiden how she liked of her neighbour's Son: She answered: I will in no case make my own choice, though I should die without a husband: but whom my Father and Mother will appoint unto me, the same will I have: With that the mother could not stay from speaking, and said: I know she saith not as she thinketh, and I am certain she loveth him, and would fain have him before any other. Fortunatus then sending for the young man, whom at the first he liked very well, poured out of a Purse four hundred ducats upon the Table before them: and said to the young man, who was but thirty years old, wilt thou be content to Wed this Maid? & to the maid he said, art thou willing to have this man for thy husband, & I am disposed to give you freely this little money for a dowry? Then answered the young man, saying: If you mean good earnest, and indeed will perform your liberal promise, for my part we shall be soon agreed. The mother without further pausing offered her consent, and said: Then doth my Daughter likewise agree thereto. Whereupon Fortunatus forthwith sent for a Priest, and caused them to be married in the presence of their Parents, and after the marriage was finished, he gave unto them the money which he had brought only for that purpose. He gave also to the Father ten ducats to  him and his wife, and ten ducats more to keep the marriage feast; whereof they were all glad, thanking greatly Fortunatus, and praised God for their good fortune, saying among them God hath surely sent this man from heaven to help the poor.  
After this they went again to their Inn, but Leopoldus marvelled that his Master was so liberal to give money so lightly, whereas before he was so sad for a little money that he had lost. The Host likewise was grieved that he could not find the Purse with the four hundred ducats, when as he searched so narrowly: and therefore thought thus with himself, since he hath so much to give away, I must needs empty his purse once again. He therefore knowing that they had a Taper of wax to burn all night, when they were all gone forth to the Court, broke privily into the Chamber, made holes in the Taper, poured in Water, and stopped them close that it could not be perceived: so that when it had burnt two or three hours, it should quench and go out of itself. So forasmuch as the Emperor's Feast was nigh ended, when as he knew Fortunatus would departed, he determined the same night to rob his guest again. Wherefore he provided for them against they came from the Court, the best Wine that he could get, and gave it them of his own cost to drink, to the intent they should sleep the sounder. So when they had made good cheer, and were laid down to rest, the taper burning, and their naked swords lay by them, they fell into a sound sleep without ear.   

How Leopoldus slew the unfaithful host at Constantinople. Chap. 28.  
 Scene from Chapter 28  
But the Host lay waiting for his Prey, and when he perceived the Light to be quenched, he crept through the hole which he had made before, coming first to Leopoldus; under whose head when he began to grope, Leopoldus therewith suddenly awaked, and with his sharp sword that lay ready by him, striking about him in the dark, by chance so wounded the thief in the neck, that he fell dead to the ground. Then called Leopoldus angrily to the men, and said: Why have you put out the light? They answered, that none of them had done it. Then willed he one of them quickly to go fetch a light, and the rest to stand with their swords about the door; For, said he, let none go out, here is a thief in the chamber. When the light came, they found the Host deadly wounded, lying by Leopoldus Bedstead. When Fortunatus saw that, he was more afraid than ever he was in his life, and said: Alas that ever we came so Constantinople: it were not much to lose our goods, but now shall we be bereft of our life also: and therewith said to Leopoldus: What a heinous fact hast thou committed in staying our Host: if thou hadst but yet wounded him, by God's help and money we might have escaped. Leopoldus answered: It was dark, I witted not where I smote, nor whom I touched: but my pretence was to strike a Thief that groped under my head, who most like hath rob us before. Therefore if the truth were known why he was slain, we should be in danger neither of Life nor Goods. Then said Fo●tunatus: It will in no case be believed if w● make our Host a Thief: for his friend's wil● not suffer us to escape, neither will money 〈◊〉 reason help in this behalf. Fortunatus' als● in this distress, thought in his mind, If 〈◊〉 had a friend whom I durst trust, to show hi● the secrets of my purse, though we were imprisoned, and declared the truth of the matter, perhaps the judge would be entreated for a grea● sum of money offered by that friend, to spare u● our lives, and deliver us: Contrariwise h● thought again, If I hazard my purse upon an man's credit, it will be so acceptable to him, tha● rather than he will restore it again, instead 〈◊〉 friendship, he will exaggerate the cause, saying unto the judge, that it were a great shame an● reproach that Guests murdering their Ho●● should escape unpunished. Wherefore he concluded by his own Reason, that it were no good to trust any man with his Purse, o● with a great Sum of Money, lest it shoul● the sooner work destruction: so that he was i● a fearful Perplexity. When Leopoldus sav● his Master and his Servants so dismayed he said unto them: Why stand you thu● trembling and amazed? No sorrow will hel● when a mischief is once done, neither ca● we Revive him again; let us therefore speedily Devise and take Counsel together with a bold E●●rage, how we may Escape this present Danger. Then said Fortunatu● I cannot devise what is to be done (repenting inwardly again, that he had not chosen Wisdom instead of Riches) but if thou Leopoldus canst give us any good counsel, perform it with speed: Leopoldus said, then follow me, and do as I bid you, and with Gods help I will bring us all hence without any danger of body or goods. This speech of Leopoldus somewhat revived their spirits.   

How Fortunatus and his men conveyed themselves out of danger from Constantinople. Chap. 29.   Scene from Chapter 29 
LEopoldus willing them to be silent, and to hid the light, took the dead Corpse on his back, & cast it into a deep well by the stable, with the head downward. It was then about midnight, so that no body saw or heard him. Then returned he to the Chamber and said: I have rid us of this Thief, so that in a great while none can know where he is become. I suppose also that he made no man privy to his attempt: so that it is far unlike to be descried that we have done aught unto him: therefore be merry again, and pluck up your hearts. He said moreover to the servants: Go speedily and prepare your horses, with whistling, singing, and pleasant communication, and in any case look that none of you show a sorrowful countenance, and we will do the like: Then as soon as the day breaketh we will ride away, so that we shall be six miles hence at the least before the Host shall be miss. With this Fortunatus was comforted, and framed himself a pleasant Gesture. When the horses were readily appointed, they called for Malmsey, which there is very good, and made all merry, with lusty and frolic demeanour: and at their departure gave unto every Manservant and Maiden in the house a Ducat. Leopoldus said: I trust we shall return within this month, and make merry here again. Then Fortunatus took his leave, and said to the Servants of the house, thank our Host for his friendly entertainment, and tell him that I would have brought a Cup of Malmsey to his bedside, but that I thought Rest would do him more good. With that road they forth of the Door towards Turkey, with all speed possible, and took their next ●ait in a City called Raropia, in the Turkish Empire: in the which was an Officer whose charge was to convey the strange and Christi●n Merchants, and to give them a Passport through the Country. Leopoldus having for●er experience thereof, went to the Officer, and told him, There were six Pilgrims that required a safe Conduct to ride with them. He answered: You shall be safely conveyed, but I will have of each of you four Crowns, and the Guide must have a Crown a day. Leopoldus (though he thought it overmuch) made not many words, but gave him the money, and the Officer delivered him a passport in writing, and sent with them an expert guide, who conveyed them throughout all Turkey. Fortunatus by this time, having abandoned all dread and care for their thievish Host, behaved himself cheerfully, and so road lastly to the great Turk's Court, and beholding there his exceeding riches, and the infinite multitude of Soldiers that be continually maintained in Garrisons, marvelled at the mightiness and glory of his Empire, and especially to see so many Mamelukes and Enemies to Christian Religion, which greatly misliked him: and therefore stayed not long there, but went from thence to the great Walachia, wherein was ruler, Tracola Waida; and so came to the Kingdom of Bosna, from Bosna, orderly through Croatia, Dalmatia, the City of Buda in Hungary, from Buda to Cracovia in Poland; and so to Coppenhagen in Denmark, to Stockholm in Swecia, to Paragon in Norway, to Prague in Bohemia; and so the next way through the Dukedom of Saxony to Frankenland, and then to Augsborough. There met he with certain Merchants, and accompanying them to Venice, paid all their charges. Fortunatus had registered in a book, the names, usages, ceremonies, religions, and the courtly demeanours of all those Country's Cities, Emperors, Kings, and People by whom he had traveled. But now in the time that he stayed at Venice, he laid wait for the fairest jewels that might be gotten, not sticking for the price were it never so great; whereby the Venetians received of him a great sum of money, so that he was highly esteemed amongst them. He remembering also in what poverty he had left his Father and Mother when he departed from Famagosta, bought much fair Cloth, Velvet, and Silks for their Apparel; and costly Householdstuff, of every sort double: And also bought a Ship to convey all those Goods into Cyprus. It was now the sixteenth year sithtnce he departed; and when he came to Famagosta, it was told him that his Father Theodorus, and his Mother Gratiana were both dead, wherefore he was very sorry.  
He then hired a large house, wherein he bestowed his goods, and entertained many more man-servants and maidens for all purposes; and from thenceforth maintained most stately and sumptuous Hospitality, that of every man he was had in great estimation. Howbeit many mused and much marvelled how he had obtained such wealth, whereas the most knew that he departed in extreme poverty.   

How the King of Cyp●us made a Marriage between Fortunatus and the Lord Nemians youngest Daughter. Chap. 20.  
ANd as soon as he might bring it to pass, he purchased again his Father's house; and many more thereto adjoining: All which he caused to be plucked down, and in that place builded a goodly large Palace after the bravest manner, like as he had seen in other Countries. And by the house also he founded a sumptuous Church, and twelve more houses for twelve Priests to continue in divine service of God, as it were a Chantry or Cathedral Minster. For the Revenues whereof, he also allowed yearly xiv hundred ducats: that was for every Priest one hundred, and the other two for the Reparation and Ornaments of the Church. He caused moreover to be made in the Minster three Tombs, one for his Father, the other for his Mother, whose bones he caused to be digged up, and buried therein: and the third to be reserved for himself and his Heirs. When all things were finished to his mind, he purposed to take a Wife, which when the nobility and gentlemen of Cyprus understood, every one which had the fairest daughters, set them forth to the uttermost show, by training them up with fine qualities, nurturing them with good behaviour, and trimming them in comely and gorgeous attire. But amongst all others, not far from Famagosta dwell an Earl named Lord Nemian, which had three daughters that were passing fair, whom the King counselled to bestow one of them on Fortunatus if he might, and offered himself also to break the matter if the Earl were so content. Now the Earl, though he were not very rich, seemed at the first to make little account of Fortunatus, saying to the King: If he should be a suitor to any of my daughters, would your Grace advise me to give my consent? For we know he hath no lands nor yearly revenues: and whereas perhaps he had great sums of ready money, we see how he hath bestowed it in sumptuous building, whereof cometh no profit. And albeit he have sufficient store yet left, money is casual and may soon be consumed and lost, and so may he come to be in poverty at the end as his Father did, who sometime was exceeding Rich and Puissant. Then said the King to the Earl, I have been certified by them that have seen it, that he hath as many precious jewels as would buy an Earldom, and yet will sell none of them. I hear say also, that he hath traveled through many nations, whereby it is to be presupposed that he would not have builded such a gorgeous Palace, and a Chantry which he hath so endowed with perpetual Rents, except he well knew how to maintain an estate agreeable: And therefore if you will do by my counsel, you shall (now he is disposed to marry) offer unto him one of your Daughters. And if so be you are willing so to do, I myself will do my diligence in first motioning of the matter, not doubting to bring it to pass. For Fortunatus I know will do much at my request: and indeed I had rather he should match in a Noble kindred, than with one of the meaner sort, being also unmeet (as to me seemeth) that one of a base Lineage should possess that fair Palace, and dwell therein.  
The Earl understanding that Fortunatus was greatly in the King's favour, said: forasmuch as I perceive your grace's pleasure is that I should give one of my daughters to Fortunatus, therein I give your majesty full power, both of her and my goods, Then said the King, Lord Nemian send your three daughters to my Wife the Queen, and I will cause them to be gorgeously attired, upon hope that one of them shall please him: howbeit I will give him the choice, to take which he best fancieth; I will moreover bestow all the charges of the Wedding Feast, and look what he requireth more, that will I perform, for that thou hast frankly committed both Body and Goods unto me. The Earl humbly thanked his Majesty, and so taking his leave of the King, road home and declared to the Countess his wife all the matter as it was decreed between the King and him.  
The Countess liked of their Agreement well, save only that Fortunatus was not no●●● enough of birth, and that she was loath he should have his free choice: for she loved one of them above the rest, whereof she would in no wise make the Earl privy. Howbeit she agreed to his will: whereupon she comely addressed them, and appointed a motherly Gentlewoman to be their Guide, with men and maidens to attend on them, as was meet for their estate; they were sent unto the King's Court, where they with their retinue were honourably received, and were taught the courteous guise and nurture of the Court, whereof they were not altogether ignorant before. When the King thought it most convenient, he sent a Messenger for Fortunatus, that he should come to the Court. And albeit he was not certified for what cause he was sent for, yet he presupposing that it was for no ill intent, speedily prepared himself and road to the King, of whom he was friendly entertained.  
Then said the King unto him: Fortunatus thou art my Subject, and I am well persuaded of thee, that thou will have respect unto my counsel, for that I would be loath to with thee any evil. I am informed that thou hast builded a goodly House, and erected a Church with a Chantry, and that thou art now minded to marry a Wife: wherefore I fearing lest thou shouldest take one whom I should not well like of, I have bethought me of a wife for thee, by whom the worthiness of thy Lineage shall be advanced. Fortunatus' answered, saying: Gracious Lord, truth it is, that I am disposed to marry, and meant to have espied out a wife for my liking, but forasmuch as I now perceive that your Grace will vouchsafe so far to debate your Royal estate, as to provide so favourably for me, I will no farther seek nor be careful, but will gladly put my whole trust and confidence in your Majesty's assignment. When he had this answer of Fortunatus, and was also assured of the Earls assent who had committed to him his daughters, he thought in his mind, a Marriage is here easy to be made, and said to Fortunatus as ensueth.  
I have in my custody three fair Ladies, which be all Sisters by one Father, and one Mother: The eldest is eighteen years of age named Germana; the second is seventeen years old, called Marcepia; the third of the second lacketh four years, whose name is Cassandra, I will permit thee of these three to have thy choice: therefore advise thee whether thou wilt see them one after another, or view them altogether. Fortunatus made no long deliberation, but said: My Sovereign Lord, six hence your grace granteth me such free choice, I require of your Majesty that I may see them all three standing together, and hear each of them speak.  
The King granted his request, and sent word presently to the Queen, that she should cause her Ladies to be trimmed in the best attire, for that he would come thither, and bring a Guest with him. When the King thought all things were ready, he would have taken Fortunatus alone with him, who entreated the King, saying: if it please your Grace, suffer also this old servant of mine to go with me: the King granted: so took they Leopoldus with them, and came into the chamber where the Ladies were.   

How Fortunatus of three Sisters chose the Youngest, named Cassandra, for his Wife. Chap. 21.  
THe King there setting down with Fortunatus standing by him, called the three virgins before his presence. They Reverently kneeling before him, he willed them to stand up, and said first to the eldest: Tell me Germana, hadst thou lever remain with the Queen, or with the Earl thy Father, and the Countess thy Lady Mother? She answered: My Sovereign Lord, it is not meet for me to answer that question: and although I might choose, yet would I not follow my own Fantasy: but that your Grace and my Lord and Father do Command, the same ought I to Obey. Then spoke he to the second, saying: Marcepia, tell me truly which thou lovest best, the Earl thy Father, or the Countess thy Mother. She likewise answered, Let your grace pardon me for it is not convenient to give my resolution to this demand. I love them both well, and with all my heart; if I loved the one better than the other, I should be sorry my Heart should know it, and ashamed that my Mouth should confess it: for I have found in them both as much natural love and friendship, as a Daughter might look for of her parents. Then moved the King the youngest to speak, saying: answer me Cassandra unfeignedly to this question. If there were here in our Court a company of noble and worshipful men and women preparing to dance, your Father and Mother standing by, if one of them say stand forth and dance with them, and the other bid step aside, and appear not among them, whose commandment wouldst thou obey? She replied, saying: Let not your Majesty be offended, your Grocer knoweth that I am but young, and that 〈◊〉 cometh not before age: your Majesty may also consider the affections and desires of Youth, therefore it is not for me to disclose my unknown determination in this doubt; For 〈◊〉 I obey the one, I must needs displease the other, which I were very loath to do. But yet urged the King farther, ask, if either of them must needs be done, whom had you rather to please? Then said Cassandra, may it please your Highness to grant me a year and a day to deliberate of this question, that I may ask counsel of wiser than I am, to give you a direct answer. With that the King ceased ask, and troubled them no more. Then went the King aside into another Chamber with Fortunatus, and said unto him: Thy desire was to see these three Ladies, and to hear them speak, which I have showed thee to the uttermost: now therefore determine with thyself which of them thou thinkest meet to be thy Spouse. Fortunatus' answered: I like them all so well (my Liege) that I cannot so suddenly advise me which I may choose. Wherefore I beseech your Majesty, to grant me but a little space to confer and consult with my old and trusty servant Leopoldus therein. The King therewith was well content, and so let him departed aside to deliberate of the matter.  
Then Fortunatus withdrawing himself into a secret place, said to Leopoldus: Thou hast seen and heard these three Ladies as will as I, and forasmuch as I consider that in matters consisting of mere Fantasy, reason and right judgement be often abandoned by wilful affection, therefore do I first require thy opinion also in this case, before I proceed to farther choice, desiring thee to council me, even as the Case were thine own. Leopoldus being somewhat abashed with this Demand, said, Sir, It is not for you to regard my judgement in this Point: For many times one Brother liketh of that which is Displeasant unto the other; and most often it chanceth that every Singular man hath a particular judgement, and that especially in the choice of a woman. Therefore your own affection in this case should be more acceptable, than any foreign council: for that good liking is the root of sound love. Then said Fortunatus: Of all this full well I wots, and that I take a Wife for myself and for no other: But yet would I fain that thou shouldest disclose the secrets of thy heart unto me, for thy experience is far greater than mine, to judge the inward disposition by the outward marks and tokens of Physiognomy, which often proveth true.  
Leopoldus was very loath to move him any way, fearing lest if he did not counsel him as his Fancy was before bend, he would therewith be discontented. Howbeit thus much he said: Sir, They all three like me very well; and as far as I can guests, they be either sisters, or sister's Children: neither do I mark any tokens of unfaithfulness in them. Then asked Fortunatus of which of them he thought best? Leopoldus answered: I will not first counsel, neither shall you first choose, lest if I should mislike that you best fancied, you might be offended. Therefore take we each of us a piece of Paper, and therein let us write both our minds asunder, you at one end of the Table, and I at the other. This device liked Fortunatus well, and so did both accordingly.  
When as they had read in each others writing, that Cassandra was of them both fancied more than the rest. Fortunatus was glad that the same liked Leopoldus, which liked him: and Leopoldus also rejoiced that he had most preferred the Lady whom his Master had chosen. When Fortunatus had thus determined with himself, with the advice also of Leopoldus, he went again unto the King, and said: my Sovereign Lord and King, forasmuch as your Grace hath assigned unto me a choice, which (though it were not, as indeed it is, very acceptable unto me) I ought to take it in good part, esteeming myself not unworthy thereof: I therefore humbly present unto your Grace my faithful service in all your affairs; and will employ my whole might and power to recompense your benevolence. And to satisfy your Majesty as concerning my determination, I give you now to understand; that by your favour and licence, I have chosen Cassandra the youngest sister for my Spouse, if so it like your Majesty to grant me. The King said, thy request is granted, and so sent presently for the Queen to bring Cassandra with her. When the Queen and Cassandra were come, the King sent for a Prelate, and caused them to be Married incontinently: Wherewith Cassandra was scantly well content, for that she was so suddenly wedded without the consent or presence of her Parents; howbeit the King would needs have it so. Now when the wedding was finished; the Sisters of the Bride, with many other Ladies and Virgins, with courteous salutations wished under her good luck; but yet the two sisters wept bitterly. Fortunatus demanding the cause of their mourning, comforted them, saying: Be of good cheer, lament not at your sister's good fortune, lest you be rather suspected of envious disdain, than commended for natural kindness: hope the best, and I will ere long somewhat case you of your sorrow. With that he sent forthwith to Famagosta for the jewels that he bought at Venice, and gave two of the best to the King and the Queen, and to the Bride and her two Sisters each of them one, which were also very sumptuous, fair, and beautiful: And on every one of the Queen's waiting Ladies bestowed he a precious jewel also, for the which they all greatly thanked him, and marvelled at his bountiful liberality. The King then sent for the Earl of Nemian, and the Countess, his Wife. Fortunatus' understanding thereof, sent Leopoldus together with the Messengers, and delivered to him a thousand ducats to give unto the Countess; and willed him to say unto her, that her Daughter's Husband hath sent her that present, that she might come with a cheerful Countenance to the Wedding Feast of Cassandra: The Countess at the first bearing of this Message, was displeased, because Fortunatus had chosen the Youngest, which ●e loved more tenderly than the other: But w●en Leopoldus had given her the money, her choler was soon allayed, and her Displeasure pacified; so that she and the Earl prepared themselves with gorgeous Attire, and all other comely Furniture accordingly to go to the Court, where they were received of the King very honourably. Their lodging also was prepared exceeding sumptuously, and of all kind of delicate fare they had great plenty: Insomuch that the Earl said to his Wife; as often as we have repaired unto this Court, such honour was never done unto us before: wherefore since our King is become so gracious unto us, and hath ordained such a puissant Husband for our Daughter, we be much bound to render thanks unto the Omnipotent God. And as they were all assembled together, the King said unto Fortunatus; now resteth only the Wedding Feast to be ordained, which I mean to have kept in my own Palace. Then spoke Fortunatus: May it like your Grace to grant me so much, as that I may Solemnize the same at Famagosta, in my new Lodging, wherein never was yet any triumphant Pastime. The King said: Not so, lest the Lord Nemian and you should be overmuch charged. Fortunatus again replied, saying: no cost, be it never so great, shall either grudge or grieve me, therefore I beseech your Majesty vouchsafe to honour my feast with your own person, and the presence of the Queen's Grace, and all the Noble and Worshipful Retinue of your Highness' Court: and although perhaps I cannot give sufficient Entertainment in all points correspondent to the worthiness of such princely and noble estate: yet I will undoubtedly so provide, that there shall be nothing necessary wanting, which money can procure.   

How the King and Queen of Cyprus accompanied the fair Cassandra to Fortunatus' House, where they were bountifully feasted. Chap. 22.  
WHen the King heard Fortunatus make such a bountiful and magnificent proffer, he thought to himself; I would gladly see his behaviour, and said unto him: be it as thou hast requested; ride home before to make preparation, and I will shortly come with the Queen, thy Father and Mother-in-Law, with thy spouse, and with all our retinue. Fortunatus was thereof glad, thanking the King, and said: Your Grace shall not need to be long absent, for in three days I shall be ready for your coming. So road he forthwith to Famagosta, and there made provision as magnificently as he could devise. After the fourth day, the King came to Fortunatus' house, with no small number of noble estates: where at the first entrance they were triumphantly received with sundry kinds of melody, and musical harmony, and with many delectable and pleasant shows to delight their senses, the house also being trimly compacted, and so gorgeously garnished, that it was most glorious to behold. Thus continued they the whole day, and most part of the night, with feasting, banqueting, and dancing, after the most sumptuous manner that might be devised, until Fortunatus and fair Cass●ndra were brought to their Chamber: And in like manner continued the space of fourteen days after. But notwithstanding the Countess, the Bride's Mother had seen this Royalty, and all things so sumptuously accomplished, yet was not she fully satisfied, because Fortunatus had no Land nor yearly Revenues, and so signified unto her Husband the Earl, who said: trouble not yourself therewith, for there is no doubt but that he will sufficiently provide for your Daughter. On the next morrow went the King, the Earl, and the Countess, and requested him that he would assign some certain dowry unto Cassandra, what casualty soever might befall. Then said Fortunatus, I have neither Land, Lordship, nor yearly Revenues; but I will give to her five thousand ducats in ready money, wherewith I will put you (my Lord and Father) in trust, to purchase for her some manor-house with Lands, where you and she shall think most convenient. Then said the King: I wots well how it is best to do in this matter. Here is the Earl of L●gorn, which is forced of necessity to sell a parcel of his Living for ready Money: He hath a Castle and a Town three miles hence called Larganenbo at the Rainbow; the same you may buy of him, with the Title that he hath both of the Land and People. So sent they presently for the Earl, who was contented to bargain with them for seven thousand ducats. Fortunatus therefore without delay told out the money, and the Earl of Legorn concluded with him to yield up all his right, title, interest, and jurisdiction that he had, in, or to the Countiship Castle, and Town of Legorn unto Cass●ndra, and never to make more challenge thereto. When this matter was throughly accomplished, then was the Countess in all points well pleased.   

How the King and the Queen departed, and Fortunatus ordained a new Feast for the Citizens. Chap. 23.   Scene from Chapter 23 
First, If thou be disposed to return into Ireland again, then will I give thee four servants to bring thee worshipfully thither, and will give thee also as much money in thy purse, as shall maintain a competent living for thee and thine during thy life: Or if thou list hereto remain Eamagosta, I will provide thee a House, and allow thee yearly as much as shall maintain three servants, and two maidens to attend on thee, and will not suffer thee to want during thy life: or if thou wilt still abide in house with me, thou shalt have all things that are necessary, as good as I myself. Now choose of these three proffers which thou likest best, and I will faithfully perform my promise in either of them.  
Then said Leopoldus: This is much more than I have deserved either of God or Man, that such honour and courtesy should be proffered to me in my old Age: wherefore I yield to you as hearty thanks as one man may tender to another.  
But as concerning this choice; to ride home again, for one of my years, it is very painful and unmeet; and perhaps I may die by the way; yea, though I might come safely home, Ireland being a hard and uncivil country, where are no good wives, nor delicate victuals well prepared, whereto I have been long accustomed, my life (most like) would be the sooner shortened. And to remain still in household with you, for me is more unfit: For whereas you have now a Fair young lusty Wife, many goodly Gentlewomen and jolly Fellows about you. I being old and feeble, shall be loathsome unto them; for the behaviour of old men, is irksome unto the younger sort. Howbeit I mistrust not your virtuous disposition. Therefore if it shall please you, I especially request you to buy me a house in the City, wherein I may end my life; beseeching you notwithstanding, that I may not be secluded from your counsel, so long as we both live. Fortunatus thereto yielded, not attempting any weighty cause without his advice so long as he lived. He also bought him a house according to his desire, gave him men & maidens, & aloud him for his charges an hundred ducats every month. Leopoldus was glad to be free at his own liberty, to eat or drink, rise or go to bed when he lifted, and not bound to any kind of service. Nevertheless he went daily to the Church, there to show himself to Fortunatus, and other his attendants, when need required; whereby appeared his fidelity. When Leopoldus had now lived half a year in his estate, he was taken with a grievous sickness, which when no Physicians could remedy, soon after he died, whereof Fortunatus was exceeding sorry, causing him to be worshipfully buried in his own Church.   

How Fortunatus had by his Wife two Sons, the first named Ampedo, the younger Andol●ci●. Chap. 24.  
Fortunatus' and Cassandra his wife now living in joyful and happy Estate, found lack of no earthly thing but only of Children; for he knew that the virtue of his Purse would end after his decease, if he had no lawful heirs of his body: howbeit he made not his wife a counsel thereof, but prayed daily together with her, that God would make them Fruitful. Insomuch that the Lord hearing their requests, Cassandra was conceived with a Son, whom they Baptised with the Name of Ampedo. Shortly after she came with Child again, and brought forth another Son, which was Christened by the name of Andolocia. Thus Fortunatus was not a little joyful, that he had now two such fair and well-proportioned children, whom he and his Espouse trained up carefully, and tenderly loved: Howbeit Andolocia was always of stouter courage than Ampedo, as after it appeared. And although Fortunatus would gladly have had more Children by Cassandra (especially a daughter or twain also) yet from thence forth she conceived no more by him.   

How Fortunatus got leave of Cassandra to go unto the Heathen Nations. Chap. 25.  
Fortunatus' having now lived joyfully with Cassandra twelve years, and persuading with himself that it was unlikely he should have any more Children, it seemed irksome and grievous unto him to abide any longer at Famagosta, though he there wanted no kind of pleasant Recreation and Pastime; but purposed to travel among the Heathen, through both the greater and lesser India, and over all the Kingdoms of Prester John: For the which he demanded the good will of Cassandra, and told her, that forasmuch as he had already ranged through one half of the earth, he was minded to see the other half also, though he should lose his life thereby. When Cassandra heard him so earnestly bend to departed so far from her, she lamentably entreated him to desist from his purposed Voyage, saying: If you thus without cause will adventure your quiet estate, it is no other likelihood, but that you will greatly repent it. For although heretofore you have passed throughout most Christian Nations in your youthful, strong, and lusty age, yet now you being long accustomed to a quiet life, may not so well endure to travel in these elder years into the Savage and Heathen Countries, who also be most envious, unfaithful, and tyrannous to all Christians; therefore oh my wellbeloved Fortunatus, oh my dear and faithful spouse, on whom I repose all my trust, I beseech thee for God's sake, and the love thou owest unto me, that having respect unto thy Wife and Children, thou wilt cast out of thy mind such dangerous and unneedful travel, and abide still with us; and if I have displeased you in any thing, or have done aught that misliked you, let me understand of it, and I will endeavour to eschew the same: with that she wept bitterly, and shown herself very sorrowful. Then said Fortunatus, my dearly beloved bedfellow, take not the matter so grievously, I intent to be but a small time absent, and when I return, from thenceforth I will continue with you so long as we both live. Then said Cassandra, If I were sure of your return, I would patiently abide your departure: Or if you went elsewhere than amongst an unfaithful people that coveteth the blood of Christians, it should the less grieve me. Then said Fortunatus, I am so fully minded to accomplish this journey, that no creature save God and death only shall alter my pretence: howbeit at my departure I will leave you so much ready money, as shall maintain you and your Children during your lives, though I never come again. When Cassandra perceived that no entreaty would prevail, she said: Wellbeloved husband, since it cannot be otherwise, I beseech you hasten your return, and let not the love and faithfulness which you have hither showed, be banished out of your heart, and we will all pray unto the Lord day and night, that you may have health, peace, and good weather, and favour of all them with whom you shall be conversent, and under whose power you shall fall. Then said Fortunatus; God grant your prayer take effect, and I trust to return the sooner.   

How Fortunatus departed from Cyprus again to visit more strange countries. Chap. 26.  
SOon after Fortunatus taking leave of his Wife and Children, desiring God to bless them all, departed in a Ship of his own, and sailed to Alexandria; where when they had attained licence to come on land, they were demanded who was Lord of the Ship, to whom they answered: That Fortunatus of Famagasta in the Isle of Cyprus was the only owner thereof: then required they Fortunatus to be brought into the King's presence, to present a Gift unto him; for such was the Custom there: And every Merchant at his first arrival at Alexandria, should give some present unto the Sultan.  Scene from Chapter 26 Wherefore the Courtiers were ready and diligent to bring him unto the Court: where he willed a Cupboard to be prepared, and thereon he set many fair and costly jewels for the King to behold. When the Sultan came forth and beheld them, he marvelled, supposing they were brought to be sold: And thereupon enquiring the price of them. Fortunatus again caused to be demanded of the Sultan whether they liked him? The Sultan answered, I have not lightly seen fairer, therefore I cannot but like them well. Then requested Fortunatus that his Grace would take them in good worth for that he would freely give them all unto him: when the King heard that, he marvelled that one Merchant should present him with such a rich gift; for he esteemed them worth 5000 ducats, which he thought was a sufficient Present for the Commonalty and ●att of a whole City, such as Venice, Florence, or Genua: Howbeit he would not refuse them, but accepted it for a gift, recompensing him with an hundred barrels of Pepper, which amounted to the value of the jewels. When the Factors of Venice, Florence, and Genua, and Catholonia (who were then at Alexandria) had heard that the King had given unto Fortunatus such a reward; forasmuch as they abiding there continually, brought great commodity unto the Realm, and gave Gifts once or twice a year unto the King, and yet none of them at any time received any reward, great or small, they envied Fortunatus. Besides that, he bought all the best Merchandise, not sticking at any price: Wherefore they fearing their Hindrance, sought to bring Fortunatus in displeasure with the Sultan. Whereupon they gave unto the Lord Admiral great Gifts, to the end he might conceive the worse of Fortunatus, and so Discredit him to the King. But Fortunatus having intelligence thereof, gave unto him privily every time so much more than they. This fell out well for the Admiral, who took Money on both Parties, and yet did what he thought good, and was nevertheless friendly unto Fortunatus; wishing that many more such would come unto Alexandria. After Fortunatus had been there certain days, behaving himself very worshipfully: the King invited him and the chief Masters of the Ship to Dinner, giving them honourable entertainment, which grieved the Merchants greatly. Soon after the Admiral did in like manner feast them: And then did the Merchants plainly perceive that their gifts were in vain bestowed; for the which they inwardly fretted. When the time drew nigh that the Ship must needs departed, for the custom was, that no vessel might stay at Alexandria above six weeks, (whether he had sold or not.) Fortunatus had appointed another Patron over his Ship in his stead, whom he charged to sail with his Merchandise to Cathalonia, Portugal, Spain, Flanders, and England, and to augment his stock by exchange of Wares at all those Coasts. He also charged him, that after two years he should repair again with the Ship unto Alexandria: For in the mean while he purposed to see many strange Countries, and at the two years' end would he there meet him again: but if they found him not there, that they should make no account that he were alive, than they should return to Famagosta, and there deliver the ship and the goods into the possession of his Wife Cassandra and his Children; which Commandment of his, the Patron faithfully promising to accomplish, took his leave and so departed.   

How Fortunatus departed to travel towards the Indies, and many other strange countries, and at the length returned again to Alexandria. Chap. 27.  
Fortunatus' forthwith made request unto the Lord Admiral, that he would procure him of the Sultan a sport, a guide, and letters of commendation to those Princes and Monarches, by whom he minded to travel. The Admiral accomplished his request in all respects, whereof he was glad, and incontinently furnished himself and all that should accompany him with all things necessary & expedient at his own charges; & so made his first journey through the land of Persia; from thence he passed through the dominions of the great Cham of Cathay, and so through the desert, came to the Court of Prester John, who had under him, both of the Isles and firm Land lxxii Kings, every one of the which Countries is full of People, fair Cities, and strong holds: There Fortunatus gave unto Prester John many goodly jewels and presents, such as were rare and strange in those Countries. He gave also many gifts unto the Gentlemen of the privy Chamber, and such as were in authority; requesting them to assist and further him, that he might take up certain Men, and have the King's Letters to address him to Calicuate, whereas the best Pepper groweth like unto Grapes, and the men of the country for extreme heat go all naked. Fortunatus therefore not able for parching heat to travel any farther that way, and now remembering his beloved wife and his two sons, longed to be at Famagosta, and so returted a contrary way homeward, through many other strange Countries, until he came to the City Lamecha; and there bought a Chamel, whereon he road through the desert of Jerusalem, to see the holy Monuments of our Saviour's Passions. The time whereas he appointed to be again at Alexandria was nigh at hand, within two months: wherefore he took shipping to abridge his journey, and made haste away, until he was arrived again at Alexandria; where he went presently unto the Sultan, thanking him and the Lord Admiral highly for their Letters; by whom he was entertained very honourably, when they understood that he had so manly behaved himself, and had seen so many strange Countries.  
When Fortunatus had been now eight days at Alexandria, having there with him many strange beasts and other rare Novelties, he longed greatly for the Ship, that he might set forward to Famagosta. In the mean time was the ship arrived, laden with so much, and so rich Merchandise, that she was thrice better in value than when she departed, whereof Fortunatus was exceeding glad, especially for the health of his men, and that they had brought Letters from Cassandra, signifying that she and her Children were in good estate, wanting only his presence. Wherefore he willed his Merchants to make a speedy sale, and to afford these wares better cheap than they commonly used. And in so doing, as they were willed, whereas other ships do scant make their Mart in six weeks, they dispatched all their business in twenty days, when as Fortunatus would have presently taken his leave and departed: But the Sultan requested him to stay with him at Supper the night before he departed, which he could not refuse, but willed his men to go aboard, and to launch out the Ship from the Haven into the Road, appointing presently after supper to come unto them, and so to departed. In the mean while went Fortunatus with the Admiral unto the King's Palace, where he was worthily entertained. Then communed the Sultan with him concerning his Affairs and success in strange Nations, which he uttered at large, thanking him again for his Letters of address, saying: That by them he was greatly furthered, and the more accepted of strange Princes. By this time was the supper ready; the King was set at the Table, and Fortunatus was placed almost over against him, where they were served with all kind of delicate fare, as was convenient for such a Mighty Prince.   

How Fortunatus gave great Gifts to the Souldan's houshold-servants, and how the Sultan shown him his treasure and his wishing-Hat, which Fortunatus carried away. Chap. 23.   Scene from Chapter 23 
When supper was ended, Fortunatus craved licence to bestow his benevolence on the household, which the Sultan granting, he opened his purse privily under the Table: and when he had given to every man in the house a large gift, according to their degree, the Sultan marvelled with himself how he could bear so much Gold about him unperceived, esteeming it a great honour done to him, that he had been so liberal to his servants, saying: right courteous Gentleman, this your bountiful behaviour, and liberal disbursing towards me and all mine, deserveth no small commendation and recompense: come therefore with me, and I will show you that before you go, which few or none doth know but myself, and the like whereof you never saw: With that he brought him unto a strong Tower, vaunted all with Marblestone; in the first room whereof were a great number of vessels, and jewels of Silver, and huge heaps of silver coins: In the second were many vessels and household implements of Gold; and many great Chests full of golden Coin: within that was a great Wardrobe, full of many costly jewels and gorgeous garments, beautified with precious stones of all sorts, belonging to the ornaments for his Body: There were also two golden Candlesticks, upon which stood two orient and great Carbuncles, which shone in the night all over the Chamber. Fortunatus was rapt with great admiration to behold this infinite Treasure, praising it greatly: Then said the Sultan, I have yet a jewel in my Chamber which I more esteem than all those you have seen: Then the King carried him to his own Bedchamber, which was sumptuously adorned, having a prospect unto the main Sea, and there opening a closet, brought forth in his hand a plain Felt hat, base and simple to behold, saying: I set more by this Hat, than by all the Precious jewels that I possess, for that if I had no jewels, money would get them, but such an Hat is not to be had.  
Then said Fortunatus, if it so please your Majesty, I would gladly know what power and virtue consisteth in this hat. The King said, it hath this quality, that whosoever hath it on his head, where he wisheth then to be, he is with a thought conveyed thither; so that with the fame have I more pleasure than with all my jewels: for when my men go forth to hunt, and I long to be with them, setting my Hat on my head, where the best game is to be seen, I am there suddenly present: and where the Deer resteth, I can be there when I list, to drive them to the hunter's hand. In time of wars also, I can be with my Soldiers when I lift, and in my Palace again w th' a wish, which all my jewels cannot do. Then demanded Fortunatus, if he that made that Hat were yet alive: The King said, of that I am uncertain. Then thought Fortunatus in his mind: How well would this Hat agree with the Purse● and said unto the King: Methinks, since that Hat hath such great virtue, that it would seem very heavy on his head that weareth it. Then answered the King, that it was no heavier than another Hat, and therewith bid him to essay it on his head, ask him whether he fe●t it otherwise. Fortunatus' answered, saying: Verily I did not think it had been so light, neither supposed I that your Grace wou d be so unadvised to set it on my head: with that he suddenly wished himself into his ship, willing speedily to hoist the sail, and having a fresh gale of wind, they sailed swiftly away: when the Sultan saw he was thus deceived of such an incomparable jewel, perceived also at the window that the ship was under sail, he in great rage commanded his men to set after Fortunatus, and to bring him back prisoner, threatening to him a cruel death. But ere they could be scantly appointed, the ship was clean passed out of sight; so that the Messengers returned again in vain, whereof the King was exceeding sorry.  
Now when the Factors of Venice, Florence, and Genua understood that Fortunatus was gone with the King's jewel, they inwardly rejoiced, saying among themselves: The King and the Admiral are but very well served; for whereas they thought they could not do unto him too much honour, he hath therefore yielded them a fair recompense: but yet are we now sure that he will not return hither again to hinder our Marts as he hath done. Now the Sultan being thus in a great agony for his Hat, would gladly have devised how to obtain it again, but witted not how to attempt the matter.  
To send his Admiral, or any of his heathen Lords among the Christians, he thought it both dangerous and little available: wherefore he thought best to send the Captain of the christians in his Embassage unto Cyprus, to deal by way of entreaty. Wherefore he called the Captain unto him, who was a Venetian, named Marcholandus, requesting him to accomplish an Embassage faithfully unto Fortunatus in Cyprus: and showing him the case before, willed him to say unto Fortunatus, that if he would vouchsafe of courtesy to send him the hat again, since he shown it him upon trust, he would accept it thankfully, and would send his Ship again laden with costly spices: but if he would not be so entreated, that he should make his complaint unto the King of Cyprus, requesting him to enforce Fortunatus to send the jewel which he had unfaithfully carried from him: the Captain promised truly and diligently to do his message. Whereupon the Sultan caused to be ordained for him a fair and strong ship, well manned with Christian Mariners, in all points sufficiently appointed, promising unto him rich rewards if he could bring the Hat again. But the Sultan was so dismayed that he could take no ●e●●, whereat his servitors were very sorry, who praised Fortunatus highly when he dealt so liberally with them; but when he had thus disquieted their King, they said, he was the naughtiest man that ever lived.   

How the Souldan's Ambassador could not obtain the Hat of Fortunatus. Chap. 20.  
MArch olandus being arrived in Cyprus, tame to Famagosta, where Fortunatus was come home ten days before. But how joyfully he & his company were received of Cassandra, of his two children, & of all the City, it were tedious to report: for there were many citizens also, whose friends were landed with Fortunatus, that had traveled far with him; which mirth and joy Mercholandus well perceived. And when Fortunatus understood that an Ambassador was come from the Sultan, to Famagosta, he easily deemed what was his errand: howbeit he caused a fair lodging to be appointed for him, and all other things requisite, willing his provision to be brought in, which he would discharge. When Marcholandus had been now three days in Famagosta, he sent word unto Fortunatus, that he had a message to do unto him. Fortunatus willed him to come unto his fair Palace, where he did his Message: saying: The King Sultan of Babylon, Lord of Alcary and Alexandria, sendeth his greeting to thee Fortunatus, by me Marcholandus: requiring that thou wilt vouchsafe to let me be a speedy Messenger, and send unto him his Jewel again by me. Fortunatus' answered in scotting manner, saying: I marvel that the King Souldan was so uncircumspect to tell me the virtue of the Hat, and also himself to set th● same upon my head; by occasion whereof I was in such Danger, that it will never be out of my remembrance so long as I live: For my Ship being at road on the Sea, and upon his saying. I wishing myself therein, if it had then failed by the way, I had been drowned, and so have lost my life, which I esteem more than all the King Souldan's Kingdom; and therefore am I minded not to departed from the jewel so long as I live. When Marcholandus heard this answer, he thought by fair entreaty to persuade him: Wherefore he said unto him; Fortunatus, be not so hardhearted, but advise you by reason and counsel: What profit can you make of the jewel? I will warrant you an hundred times the Value of that piled Hat, whereof if I had a sackful, and each of them had the virtue that it hath, I would give them all for the third part of that I shall procure you for the same: Wherefore let me speed I beseech you of my message, and I will promise you that the King shall lad your Ship with the finest Spices; as Pepper, Ginger, Cloves, Nutmegs, and Cinnamon, and suchlike: the which may be worth an hundred thousand ducats. Besides that, shall it be granted you not to yield the Hat before you have the said Spices delivered into your Possession. Therefore if it please you on this Condition to agree, I will myself go with your ship to Alexandria, and bring it home unto you loaden, trusting unto you, that when I bring that I have promised, you will likewise yield over unto my Gracious Lord the King, his jewel again.  
Fortunatus' answered, saying: I would fain be in the King's friendship, and in yours also, but let no man persuade with himself that he shall get the Hat out of my hands so long as my life endureth.  
Upon these words Marcholandus trusted no more to entreaty, but wrathfully departed unto the King of Cyprus, to whom he made his complaint, requesting his Majesty that he would enforce Fortunatus his subject to restore again to the Sultan the jewel which he had most deceitfully gotten, and now wrongfully detained: saying, that if it were not by fear means restored, great Wars were like thereof to ensue. The King said again to M●rcholandus, I have Princes and Lords in my Kingdom, whom though I command, they will do what they list: But if your King have any just Complaint or Quarrel against Fortunatus, let him deal with him as he thinketh good; for I would that he should have justice as he hath deserved.  
Marcholandus then supposing with himself that the Heathen in Cyprus should have but slender justice, returned to Famagosta, there to take shipping and departed. But Fortunatus notwithstanding, at his return bade him to Dinner, entertaining him sumptuously. He gave also unto him many goodly jewels, and freighted his Ship with sufficient Victuals, at his own charge, saying unto him: Have me commended unto the Sultan, and tell him; That if he had such a Hat of mine in like manner, I suppose he would not send it me again, neither would his council persuade him so to do: likewise am I advised by my friends and my own reason, not to departed from it, so long as I may keep it.  
The Marcholandus thanked Fortunatus for his courteous entertainment, and his costly gifts, saying: he would so signify unto the King, and departed sorrowful for his cold suit.  
Fortunatus having now passed over most part of the World, and wanting almost no earthly Commodity that man might wish; he began to tender the advancement of his own and his children's estates; maintaining a Princely port, procured Masters and Men of faculties to instruct his Children, especially in Learning, and in feats of Chivalry, whereto the youngest was most inclined, behaving himself manfully; for which cause Fortunatus bestowed many jewels, for the which was much just at Famagosta, wherein the Youngest Son had always the chief praise: Whereupon the common people would say, that Andolocia did honour to the whole Country: Fortunatus therefore rejoiced, passing his days in great solace with the pastime and pleasure that he conceived with the Hat, and also by Hawking, with Andolocia and fair Cassandra. When they had thus many years enjoyed all earthly pleasures, Fair Cassandra was summoned with a Grievous and Deadly Sickness, to yield up her immortal Soul from the transitory and corruptible Body, were it never so near; whereof Fortunatus also conceived such an inward thought, that he languished with a deadly consumption, and an imposthumation in the head. When the feeble estate of his Body put him in fear of death, he sent far and near for the best Physicians that might be had; but they only prolonged his life for a small time, but could give him no comfort of recovery.   

How Fortunatus on his deathbed, declared unto his Sons the virtue of the Purse and the Hat. Chap. 30.   Scene from Chapter 30 
Fortunatus' therefore perceiving no amendment, but rather that Death approached, sent for his two Sons, Ampedo and Andolocia, saying to them, My dear Children, your Mother that so carefully trained you up, is departed out of this world, and I likewise perceive by the feebleness of my tormented body, that death is nigh at hand; therefore I will show you how you may continue in honour and wealth as I have do●e until my dying day. With that he declared unto them the virtue of the Purse, and that it should last no longer than their two lives; and also told them the virtue of the Hat, and how much the Sultan would have given for it. He commanded moreover that they should not part the jewels, but use them in common friendly together, neither that they should make any person privy to the virtue of the purse, were she or he never so well beloved unto them: for so said he, have I concealed it this xl. years, and never uttered it save now to you only: With that he ceased speaking, and gave up the Ghost; whom his Sons caused to be honourably buried in the Minster which he had erected.  
Ampedo and Andolocia, having now left off all kind of martial Exercises, and mourned twelve months for the death of their Father: Andolocia having read over his father's books, wherein was registered in how many Nations he had traveled, was therewith greatly delighted, and earnestly moved to do the like. Wherefore he said to Ampedo: My dear brother, that we may not pass these our lusty and youthful years together in vanity, idleness, and obscure behaviour; let us travel into strange Countries, to get experience, and purchase Honour, as our Father hath done; a memorial whereof he hath left to us in writing, which I greatly de●ight to read. Ampedo answered, saying: Let them wander that is disposed; for I mean nothing less, lest perhaps (as most like it is) I should come into many a place where I should gladly wish me at home again: So that (God willing) I am determined to remain here at Famagosta, and to end my life in this fair Palace. Then said Andolocia: Since you are so minded, let us part the jewels. Ampedo said: will't thou so transgress our Father's commandment: wottest thou not that by his last will, he charged us that we should not divide them: Andolocia said: What need we care for that? he is dead and we be alive, therefore since we mean to part company, let us also divide them.  
Then said Ampedo, Take the Hat for thy share, and go whither thou wilt. Andolocia said, take thou it thyself and abide here: thus when they could not agree, for that they both desired the Purse, Andolocia said: Good Brother, than I pray you hearken to my Counsel; which shall be indifferent for us both. We will privily fill two coffers full of gold, wherewith thou spending at thy pleasure, mayst live merrily during thy Life: Thou shalt have the Hat also to make thee pastime, and let me only have the Purse during the space of six years, wherein I will travel to purchase experience and honour: And at my return thou shalt enjoy the purse at thine own use six years in like manner; thus shall we not break our Fathers Will. Ampedo thinking this to be a reasonable demand, was contented that so it should be.   

How Andolocia having the Purse, went well furnished unto the French Kings Court. Chap. 31.  
WHen An●olocia had the Purse, he attired himself gorgeously, entertained forty tall and comely Men, whom he apparelled at his own cost, after the bravest manner: And taking leave of his Brother he departed in a Ship of his own, and sailed towards France, until he came to the Haven, called Aquamorte, where he went on Land, and passed to the French Kings Court, where he was well Entertained of the King and all the Courtiers. There he accompanied himself with Earls, Lords, and Knights; for he maintained his Estate as sumptuously as the best of them: Wherefore he was had in great estimation with every man; attending also daily on the King, as if he had been an ordinary Servant. In the mean time it befell, that a Challenge was made by certain Lords and Gentlemen, to Just, Wrestle, and leap with any one that would contend with him: Andolocia advanced himself to try his force in all these Games, wherein he excelled them all. And in the evening when the Nobles and Ladies should dance before the King, he was also called and preferred to Dance with them, wherein likewise he behaved himself so well, and with such a comely grace, that the Gentlewomen had him in great favour, delighting to recreate themselves, and pass the time in his company, whereof he was glad, yielding unto them again pleasant communication, and familiar courtesy.  
After the Revels was ordained a Banquet, whereto the King also invited Andolocia, and as he sat at the Table, it chanced that he was fuddenly pricked with a passion of hot love towards a fair Gentlewoman, whose Husband was most familiar with him of all the other in the Court: Wherefore as soon as he was risen from the Table, without delay or long circumstance, he rounding her in the ear, offered her a thousand Crowns, on condition she would grant to lie with him but one night. The Gentlewoman being a Faithful and  Wife, would not Consent thereto, but presently detected the great offer of Andolocia unto her husband; who said unto her: A thousand Crowns would do us great pleasure, and were soon earned: howbeit honesty passeth Riches, and the infamy that thereby to us both might ensue, can with no Money be taken away; notwithstanding (if so be you think it good) we may so use the matter, to have most part of the money without destraining of your own body, by this policy: You know we have a fair and well-proportioned Neighbour, who is nothing nice of her flesh, neither refuseth any clean man's bed for money; to her you may promise an hundred Crowns to lie with Andolocia in your stead, and the rest may we reserve unto ourselves: I need no further to instruct you, for a Woman I trust is not commonly to seek in such a shift: The Gentlewoman liked well of this device, and forthwith went unto her Neighbour, saying unto her: So it is, that a fair, lusty, and valiant young Gentleman, being a Stranger, offered unto me two hundred Crowns if I would lie with him one night; and forasmuch as my Husband loveth me so dearly, I dare not therein to deceive him, lest it cost me my life; therefore if thou ●arest to adventure in my stead, I will bri●g to pass that thou shalt lie with him in my Chamber in my own bed, and will give thee for thy part an hundred Crowns. Then said the arrant honest Woman, I would not stick to lie with such a one for bodily Recreation, and Amorous pleasure only: but if I do this at your Request, you will perhaps send me away with a Crown or twain, and keep the hundred Crowns to yourself. The Gentlewoman said: Thou shalt have that I have promised thee beforehand. Then was the bonny Wench well pleased; and willing her to prepare all things accordingly, promised to be ready at a call to Accomplish her Will. The Gentlewoman declared to her Husband, how she had appointed the matter with her Neighbour, whereof he was glad. Andolocia being not yet satisfied, repaired again unto the Gentlewoman, and was importunate to obtain his suit; to whom the Gentlewoman said: Sir, since you will not be otherwise answered, if you will perform your promise concerning the Thousand Crowns, come to morrow night unto my house, and bring the money with you, for my Husband will be then forth about the King's business. Andolocia with this answer was a joyful man; and next night as he was willed, came privily alone unto the Gentlewoman's house, and brought with him the thousand Crowns.   

How Andolocia was deceived by a Gentlewoman, which laid another in bed with him in her stead. Chap. 32.  
THe Gentlewoman gave him very friendly entertainment, and receiving the Money of him untold, brought him into her Chamber, willing him to go so bed, and she would immediately come unto him. Then sent she hastily for her kindhearted neighbour, to whom she gave an hundred Crowns, and sent her to bed to Andolocia, where he solaced himself with her in the pleasant pastime of Venus-game, supposing he had lain with his Companions Wife. But when the Wench perceived that Andolocia was sufficiently delighted with the use of her body (for Joan was as good as my Lady till he knew the contrary) she declared how the Gentlewoman had beguiled him, hiring her for an hundred Crowns to take her place.  
Andolocia hearing that he was so deceived, waxed angry in his mind, not so much for the loss of the money, but rather for shame that it should be blazed abroad to his reproach, how he was deluded by two Women. Wherefore he forthwith risen up, and gave his Leman an hundred Crowns, willing her that after his departure, she should challenge nine hundred more, which the Gentlewoman wrongfully detained, and that she herself hath duly earned; which the Wench performed with such impudent and open contention, that the Gentlewoman for all her pretended honesty being noted for a Bawd, sustained great shame. But Andolocia presently went to his lodging, and called up his men, willing them to prepare all things ready, for he would forthwith departed, thinking with himself, I will hereafter beware of the enticing beauty & dissimulation of women, and so road displeasantly away. When he was now gone ten or twelve miles from Paris, he thought in his mind, it was well the false Harlots had not beguiled me of my Purse, and began to be merry and pleasant, and so road unto the King of Arragon's Court: from thence to the King of Castille: then to the King of Portugal: and next to the King of Spain's Court: There did the people and their behaviour like him so well, that he apparelled himself and all his men after their Country Guise; and offering his service unto the King, was thankfully entertained. He daily practised all feats of chivalry, and oftentimes gave jewels, for which Gentlemen should contend in martial games, and invited the Ladies and Gentlewomen to many costly Banquets. Moreover when there was any pressing of Souliers, he would set forth an hundred at his own charges, and load them, whereby he was had in great favour and estimation with the King. And forasmuch as he was so active, valiant, and courageous, that he would commonly be in the forefront of the battle, the King dubbed him Knight, and pretended otherwise to advance him. Insomuch that whereas there was in the Court, and Old Earl which had one only Daughter, which was his Heir, to her would the King have Married Andolocia, promising him also the Earldom after her Father's decease. But Andolocia liked not the Earls daughter, neither regarded he the Earldom; for he was rich enough by the virtue of his Purse: When Andolocia had served the King of Spain certain years, he required leave to departed. The King granted to his request, and told him, that whensoever his pleasure was to repair to Spain again, he should find him always a friendly and gracious Lord, for his faithful service. Then bought Andolocia a ship, wherein he and his men sailed into England, whereof some that envied at his costly and sumptuous behaviour were glad, and many other were sorry, which had received commodity by him.  
When he was now come to the fair City of London, where the King then kept his Court, he hired a goodly house, and bought all necessary furniture plentifully for it: There he kept an open Court, with liberal hospitality, like as if he had been a Prince, daily feasting the Nobility and Courtiers, to whom he also gave many gifts, and used to just, and practised other martial exercises with them: but in all feats of chivalry, both men and women gave Andolocia the praise.  
When the King understood of his Noble demeanours, he demanded whether he would retain to his Court? He answered, That he would most willingly bestow his body and goods in his service. In the mean while it chanced that there was wars between England and Scotland; so that Andolocia led a band of men against the Scots, at his own charges, where he behaved himself so courageously in the battle, that although he was a stranger, yet for his manly exploits, he was commended above all other.  
When the victory was obtained upon 〈◊〉 Scots, Andolocia returned home to London; where he was received of the King and Queen very honourably, and was had in great estimation with the people.   

How the King had Andolonia to dinner, where he fell in Love with Agrippina the King's Daughter. Chap. 33.  
THen ordained the King a great Dinner, and invited thereto Andolocia, and all the other Captains, where was also present the Queen and her fair Daughter Agrippina, who surpassed in beauty all the women in England: whom when Andolocia had steadfastly beheld, his Heart was so fervently kindled with the love of her, that he had no more list to eat or drink, were the meats never so delicious or delicate. When the feast was done, and he was returned home to his house, he thought by himself how he might win the favour of Agrippina: wishing that he were of Royal blood, that he might be esteemed Worthy to Marry her: Howbeit he encouraged himself with Hope, to purchase her good Will and Liking by some means or other. Wherefore he advanced himself from thenceforth in just and other Martial exercises before the Queen and her Daughter very often, and in more Gorgeous manner than he was wont, wherewith Fair Ladies be most delighted. And when he thought it convenient, he invited the Queen and her daughter, with many other Ladies of the Court to dinner, which was so sumptuously in all points adorned, that it was wonderful in a subjects house to behold.  
He gave also to the Queen a costly jewel, and another to Agrippina, and to every one of her Waiting Gentlewomen one, that he might be the better Esteemed of Agrippina, when he came to the Court: whereof the King was informed: Insomuch that when Andolocia came unto the Court, the King said unto him: I understand by the Queen that she hath been very well and sumptuously entertained at your House: Why had not I also warning thereof?  
Andolocia said: Most gracious Lord, if your Majesty would not disdain to honour my poor House with your presence, how acceptable should it be unto me! Then said the King: I will also come to morrow unto you, and bring ten more of my Counsel with me.  
Of this was Andolocia very glad, and hasted him home to prepare all things accordingly. The next day came the King and the Lords to dinner; where all things were so magnificently accomplished upon so short warning, that the King and such as came with him greatly marvelled thereat. Then thought the King, it were good to abate the pride of Andolocia, and to make him ashamed; wherefore he appointed the next day also to take his recreation with Andolocia again, and forthwith sent privy commandment, that no Wood-seller should upon pain of his grievous displeasure, sell or give one stick of Wood, or any kind of fuel unto Andolocia, or any of his retinue, during the space of two days. Howbeit Andolocia was glad of it, and had prepared all the Delicatest Victuals that was to be had for money: but when he could by no means get any Wood or other fuel, he was sore afraid left he should be utterly shamed, not knowing how the Cooks should dress the meat; but when he saw no other remedy, he sent speedily to the Merchant's Ships, and to all the Grocers in London to buy an huge quantity of Canes, Cloves, Nutmegs, Liquorish, Ginger, and Cinnamon, which were used in the Chimneys and Ovens, to burn instead of Wood, to dress the Meat. About dinner time, though the King supposed that Andolocia's Kitchen was but simply provided for lack of Fire, yet would he and other Lords that were with him before, ride unto Andolocia's Lodging, where they smelled such an exceeding strong and sweet savour, that they mused whereof it should be. Then the King demanded whether Dinner was ready? it was answered, that all Things were Prepared, and that with sweet Spices instead of Fuel, whereat the King and all the Lords marvelles greatly.  
When dinner was done, and the King's train came to fetch him home, he gave each of his Guard ten Crowns, and so returned the King with his Lords home again, thanking Andolocia for their sumptuous entertainment.  
When the King came unto the Court, he recounted unto the Queen what a costly dinner they had, and that all the meat was ●●essed with pure spices instead of wood, and that he had given to each of his Guard ten Crowns. Wherefore said the King, I greatly muse, and long to understand from whence, or how he hath such exceeding store of money 〈◊〉 he spareth for no cost, and is every day more sumptuous and costly.  
The Queen said, I know none that I suppose could sooner or better understand his secret in that behalf than our Daughter Agripp●na: For that, as it seemeth, he loveth her so well, that I believe he will not deny her aught that she shall demand. Then willed the King that the Queen should do her diligence, and use her discretion with her daughter, to put this device in practice. Then went the Queen unto her daughter, and told her in secret of the sumptuous and rich Port that Andolocia maintained, whereat (said she) the King and I do greatly marvel, since he hath neither lands, Subjects, nor Kent, (as far as we know) to continue and uphold the same.  
Wherefore forasmuch as I perceive by his behaviour in your presence, that he is far in love with you, I would have you when he cometh next in your company, to delight him with long and friendly communication, and in the end to try whether you can obtain to understand of him, whence he getteth such abundance of goods: Agrippina promised to do her utmost endeavour in that behalf.   

How Agrippina with feigned love, deceived Andolocia of his Purse. Chap. 34.   Scene from Chapter 34 
WHen Andolocia came again to the Court, the matter was of purpose so handled, that he was appointed to have secret communion with Agrippina. So that when they thus were all alone, after most friendly salutation, and many courteous proffers offered by Andolocia: Ag●●ppina said: Sir Andolocia, there goeth an honourable report of your magnificence, and how you have Entertained the King with an exceeding Costly Banquet, and have given largely to his Guard: I pray you tell me, do you not fear lest your Money will at length fail? He answered, saying: Gracious Lady, I cannot want money so long as I ●●ive: Then belike (said she) your Father was very puissant, that he hath left you so rich. Andolocia said, I am as rich as my Father, neither was he richer than I am now: howbeit he was otherwise inclined than I am; for his delight was to see strange Countries, but my greatest pleasure is to obtain the love of Fair Women and Ladies. Then said Agrippina, I have been certified that you have been in many Kings and Princes Courts, did you never yet find any there which liked you? Andolocia answered: I have been in six King's Courts, where I have seen many goodly Ladies and Gentlewomen, but (without Flattery be it spoken) in beauty and comely demeanour you pass all that ever I yet saw: Wherewith you have so ravished my Heart with Love, that my doubtful Passion engendered between Hope and Despair, enforceth me to crave a Salve for my Sore: And although I am descended of no Princely Progeny, yet may Love, which hath only Respect of Personal liking, be requited with love again on your behalf: if it be my good hap to find such favour with your Grace, beseeching thee not to deny me a medicine to heal my wound, that Cupid hath pierced with his poisoned Dart: and whatsoever you shall require of me (in my power consisting) you shall at your pleasure obtain.  
Then said Agrippina, tell me the truth unfeignedly Andolocia, from whence thou hast so much money, and riches, and then I'll live in thy love, and yield to thy request.  
Andolocia was now glad, and not remembering that he had not long before vowed to beware of women's unfaithfulness, said unto her:  
My most dearly beloved Agrippina, I will fulfil your desire, on condition you will keep all things secret, and perform your promise. She said: Right wellbeloved Andolocia, doubt not you of my fidelity, for what I promise you in words, shall be surely performed in deed. Upon these sugared words, Andolocia willed her to hold up her lap, and told out a thousand crowns out of his virtuous purse, saying: this do I give you; and can without any hindrance afford you as much as you will have more: for so long as I have this Purse, I do want no money: and now you may believe me that I have uttered the certain truth of that you longed to know. She answered, I see & acknowledge this to be so manifest, that I need no more to wonder at your sumptuous expenses. Wherefore my beloved Andolocia, forasmuch as on this night the Queen hath appointed to sleep with the King, I will procure with my Chamberlain that you shall lie with me: for without her consent I cannot bring it to pass: Therefore you must reward her largely, that she might consent and be secret. Andoloc●a thanking her, promised so to do, and not to fail of his coming at night to her Chamber.  
As soon as Andolocia was gone, Agrippina went to the Queen, and shown her with great joy, how she had gotten knowledge of Andolocia, whence he had his abundant wealth, and she had promised him to lie with him that night. The Queen thereof was glad, and said to her: If you can well remember the fashion, the colour, and the bigness of the Purse, it were expedient that the like in all points were presently made; which they raused to be done with all speed, and slubbered it also to make it seem old. The Queen also caused her Physicians to make a strong Potion, which should suddenly cast one into a dead sleep. These juggling Tools being thus prepared ready in Agrippina's Chamber, to show unto Andolocia, a Cast of Legerdemain, they informed the Chamberlain, that at night when Andolocia came, she should receive him courteously into the Chamber and that when Agrippina and he sat together at their banquet, she should be circumspect to put the drink into Andoloci●s Cu● that was ordained for him. Andolocia coming to the Chamber at the hour appointed, was let in; and friendly entertained by the old Gentlewoman of the Chamber: and soon after came Agrippina, who had him welcome with a cheerful countenance, sat down by him, and offered much friendly communication; whilst they recreated themselves with many deiscious junkets and pleasant wines. Wherefore Agrippina drank unto him, saying: I drink to you this Bowl full of Hippocras, more than I commonly am accustomed, in token of my love, requesting you to pledge me as much for my sake.  
The Chamberlain filling the Goblet again with the Somnoriferous Potion (having the Relish of Delicate Hippocras) gave it unto Andolocia, which he Quaffed with a cheerful Heart. Whereupon he incontinently fell into such a Sound Sleep, that he might not feel whatsoever was done unto him. Agrippina boldly stepped unto him, opened his Doublet, cut off his Purse, and sewed another instead thereof. Then carried she the Purse presently unto the Queen, and putting her hand therein, to try whether it were the right Purse, she pulled out three handfuls of Gold, which the Queen brought in her Lap to the King, and told him how luckily the matter was conveyed, Andolocia being left in a Dead Sleep. The King thereat exceedingly Rejoiced, and requested to have the Purse to his own Custody, lest Agrippina should come in danger thereby. But she alleging the danger that she adventured in the getting of it, if he had awaked on a sudden, requested earnestly of her Father that she might have the keeping of it only for her labour; affirming that the King and Queen both notwithstanding, might have as great commodity by it as she herself: wherewith they were content.  
When Andolocia was awaked, and saw none by him but the old chambermaid, and perceived that he had slept all night in the chair, he mused greatly, and asked what was become of Agrippina? the old gentlewoman said: the Queen sent for her, and she is risen: but sir, I marvel much how you could sleep so out of measure: for I often assayed to awake you with great noise and stirring of your body, but all your senses were so benumbed, that if I had not perceived breath to issue from your mouth, I should have supposed you had been dead, whereby you have lost your pastime with Agrippina. When Andolocia understood that by drowste sleeping he was so frustrated of his purpose, he began to curse himself, and swear like a Tyrant. The Old Gentlewoman assayed to pacify his wrath with fair words, saying: Sir, I pray you let reason rule your furious passion, and be contented, for that you have now let pass, may hereafter be obtained at a like opportunity. Andolocia said again, ragingly, a mischief light on thee thou old Bawd, why didst thou suffer me to sleep so long? for I never yet slept so long in all my life, but that if I were lightly touched, I did presently awake: But she still affirmed, and thereto swore, that she did her utmost endeavour, and answered him with fair language (for in the evening before, he had given her a hundred Crowns) so that with fair words in the end she brought him out of Agrippina's Chamber. Andolocia then went home to his house very sad and displeasant, for that he had so shamefully lost the amorous pastime that he hoped to enjoy with the fair Princes, but he witted not as yet that he had lost his peerless and fortunate Purse.  
The King being disposed to try how he would behave himself after the loss of his purse, and whether he had any more of them, sent word to Andolocia, that he would din● again with him the next day. Andolocia, being certified thereof, called the Steward, and willed him to prepare a costly Dinner; for that the King would be there on the next morrow. The Steward answered, that he had disbursed much money of sate, and had not sufficient store to serve the turn. Then took Andolocia the Purse out of his bosom, and would have Delivered him five Hundred Crowns: but when he groped in his Purse, after his accustained manner, and brought nothing forth, he turned the inside outward, and felt it throughly, but there was no money to be found. Then was he in a great perplexity, and almost dismayed with bitter anguish and sorrow: calling to mind, how for the contempt of his Father's advice (that willed him to utter the secrets of the Purse to no creature) he was in this manner plagued; but this remembrance was now too late, and all his sumptuousness and pride was now quelled, and at an end.  
Wherefore he called all his men before him, and said unto them: I have been your Master these ten years, wherein I have so entertained you, that you wanted nothing which was fit for men to have, neither am I debtor to any of you, for you be paid all before hand. The time is now come that I can no longer keep House, and maintain such a stately port as I have done: therefore I must desire you all to provide for yourselves; as well as you may: for I may remain here no longer, neither have I any more money left than one hundred and fifty Crowns, whereof I will spare to each of you ten shillings, and will also freely give to every man his horse whereon he is accustomed to ride, and his harness thereto belonging.  
These words made all the men astonished and afraid, looking one on the other, and marvelled what sudden mischance was happened unto their Master. Whereupon one that was of all the rest most loving, faithful, and trusty unto Andolocia, said, Sir, if any man have done ye● displeasure, or betrayed you, let us understand of it, and we will be revenged on him, though it were the King himself, and we should lose our lives therefore. Andolocia answered, that on his behalf should no man hazard his life. Then said they: We would be loath in your misery to leave you, but we will rather sell horse, and harness, and all that we have, to remain with you for your comfort & solace. Andolocia said: I thank you for your faithful good will, my wellbeloved servants: if ever fortune smile on me again, I will requite your courteste: but now as I have said, and saddle my horse, forthwith, for I will have no man to go or ride with me. The servants for sorrow could not refrain from tears, to see the sudden calamity of their Master, with whom they had lived so pleasantly, and so brought him to his horse. Andolocia then taking his leave of them all, departed with an heavy heart, and traveled the next way both by sea and land, until he came to his brother Ampedo.   

How Andolocia returned to Cyprus, and complained to his brother of the loss of his Purse. Chap. 35.  
WHen Andolocia was now come near unto the fair Palace, Ampedo had espied him from the top of a tower, whereof he was exceeding glad, hoping to enjoy the purse again, & that he should be no more careful to spare as he had done these ten years: then came he down to meet his brother (who received him joyfully, ask why he came so alone, and where his men were become? He answered, I have left them all, and thank God that I am come safe home. Ampedo said: I pray you brother show me what misfortune hath befallen unto you, for you make me greatly afraid. Andolocia said, let us first Dine, and then you shall understand the truth of all matters. After dinner went they together into a Chamber, where Andolocia said to Ampedo, with an heavy countenance: O dear Brother, shame will scantly let my faltering tongue to utter what mischance is happened on our behalf; for our fortunate Purse is taken from me, for sorrow whereof my heart is ready to break, but patience persuadeth that grief nothing availeth. Ampedo being with this heavy tidings astonished, pitifully said: is it taken from thee by violence, or hast thou lost it by negligence? He answered, I have most shamefully transgressed our dear Father's commandment, and disclosed the secrets of it to a Lover of mine, who beguiled me when I least mistrusted her. Ampedo said, if we had observed our Father's will, our jewels had not been separated, but you will needs adventure in dangerous travel to work your own mischief, whereof I sufficiently forewarned you. Andolocia said: Dear brother, it doth so sore and inwardly grieve me, that I fear it will cost me my life.   

How Andolocia beguiled his brother of the hat, and conveyed himself therewith into E●gland, and carried away Ag●ippina with the Purse. Chap. 36.   Scene from Chapter 36 
But when Ampedo heard that his brother took the matter so heavily, he recomforted him, saying: Let not sorrow come so near thy heart, we have yet two chests full of ducats, & the wishing Hat, whereof we will write to the King Sultan, who if need be, will give us sufficient to maintain us during our life, though we had no more; and let the purse go with all ill luck and mischief with it. Then said An●olocia: But goods and Money are subject to many casualties, and in time of conquest and other such extremities, cannot be lightly conveyed. Wherefore I beseech thee good brother grant to lend me your wishing hat, and I trust therewith to get the Purse again. Ampedo said, it is a common proverb; Whoso looseth his goods, looseth his wits: which appeareth by thee, who when thou hast already deprived us of ●ur greatest treasure, wouldst also bereave us of the chiefest pleasure: but I trow one of us will be wiser than to suffer thee to carry away the Hat also. For me seemeth you might be contented to make you pastime with it when you list. When Andolocia perceived that his brother would not in any case grant that he should carry the Hat from him, he thought by policy to deceive him of it, and said: Dear brother, if I have requested that you think inconvenient, I will be contented from henceforth to be ruled by you.  
Soon after as his brother's men were gone forth to hunt, he requested the Hat to convey himself among them. His Brother not mistrusting any deceit, delivered it unto him. But he having gotten it, came neither at the Wood nor the Men, but wished himself at Genua. When Ampedo saw that his Brother had thus deceived him, he took it notwithstanding patiently, and hoped that perhaps he would thereby return again with the Purse also. Andolocia being now at Genua, willed that the fairest jewels that were to be had should be brought to his lodging; which when they were showed him, and had agreed on the price, he put them in a Casket, & poised them with his hand, as though he would essay whether he might easily carry them; and therewith wished himself away without payment. The like did he at Florence and Venice, and at last with all the jewels conveyed himself to London in England; so that the jewellers whom he had deceived, thought verily some Spirit Incarnate had beguiled them. Then went he unto the Court, apparelled like unto a Merchant, and got licence to display his jewels upon a Table, as Agrippina with her train of Ladies should came from the Chapel, whom he well knew, but they knew not him, for that he had disfigured his herd, and the colour of his face.  
But when Agrippina was passed by, he gave two Kings unto the two chief Gentlewomen that attended in the Chamber, and requested them that they would so procure that he might come to their Lady's presence, saying: that he would show her such jewels, as her Grace never saw the like. They promised so to do, and presently shown the rings to Agrippina, which they said the Merchant had given them, to the intent they should procure that he might come before her, and sell unto her Grace some of the best jewels, for he had many which were very fair and costly.  
Agrippina said, I believe well that he hath exceeding rich jewels, for that he would not stick freely to give such fair Kings, therefore will him to come unto me, for I long to see his Wares.  
When he had laid forth the jewels before Agrippina, she liked very well of them, and cheapened those that she best fancied, whereof some were worth a thousand Crowns, for which she offered not half the Money. The Merchant said: Gracious Lady, I have been informed that you are the richest Princess in the World, which moved me to seek out the most costly and fairest jewels that are to be be found, to bring unto your noble Grace, for the which I have sustained painful travel, and great danger: Therefore I trust your Grace would not I should be so much loser by them, as to sell them for less money than they cost me: But if it please your grace to choose and lay out those that you best like, they shall be yours for as easy a price as I can afford them. Then did Agrippina choose out ten jewels, whereof the price amounted to five thousand Crowns; but she would in no wise give so much. Andolocia hoping she would bring the Purse, was contented to agree for four thousand Crowns. So that Agrippina took the jewels, and went unto her Chamber, where she took the Purse out of a Coffer, and knitting it carefully to her girdle, came forth to pay the Merchant. As she came near unto him, beginning to tell the money, he clasping her suddenly, held her fast, and wished that he were in some Wilderness with her, wherein was no dwelling nor resort. With that they were carried through the Air in a small space unto a desert place in an Isle that bordereth upon Ireland, and were set there under a tree, whereon were growing fair Apples. As Agrippina was thus suddenly under the tree, having the jewels in her Lap, and the Purse at her Girdle, she said to the Merchant: Lord, for thy mercy where are we now, or how came we hither? I am exceeding faint and hot; therefore I pray reach me some of those Apples to refresh me. The jewels that he had left poured he into her lap also, and set the hat on her head to shadow her from the parching heat of the Sun, lest it should trouble him in climbing. As he was thus on the top of the tree, looking for the fairest Apples, she sitting under full heavily, began to say, would God I were in my Chamber again. With that she was presently in her Chamber. The King, the Queen, and the Courtiers asked where she had been, and where the Merchant was become that carried her away? She said: God bless me from such Merchants; I suppose it was the Devil himself, or some of his Angels; Howbeit I left him on the top of a tree: but I pray you trouble me with no more questions, for I am exceeding faint and weary, and must needs rest me a while.   

How Andolocia by eating two Apples, had two Horns growing on his head. Chap. 37.  
When Andolocia sitting on the tree, saw that Agrippina was gone with the Hat, and with all the jewels, he bitterly cursed the tree, the fruit, and him that planted it: saying moreover, cursed be the hour wherein I was born, and the days and hours that I have lived. O death, why hadst thou not strangled me before ever I came into this miserable danger & distress, and ere ever I knew or beheld the bewitching beauty of Agrippina: would God my brother were with me in this wilderness, then would I surely strangle him, and hang myself: so that we being both dead, the purse should lose his virtue, & the false Queen, & cruel Agrippina should enjoy no further commodity nor pleasure thereby. As Andolocia went wand'ring thus to and fro, the night came on, that he could go no further; so that he sat him down to rest, but could not sleep for fear, neither thought otherwise than to die in the Wilderness. Thus lay he all night as a desperate man desirous rather to die than live any longer. When it was day, he arose & walked every way, but could not hear nor see any man; and being very hungry, came at last unto a tree, whereon grew very fair red Apples, whereof as soon as he had eaten a couple, there sprang out of his head two horns, like as it were of a Goat, which he could by no means get off. Then began he more inwardly to feel the vengeance of God, for his theft and whoredom before time committed, and asked mercy for his sins, saying: O wretch that I am, O unhappiest of all other men; thus monstrously disfigured like a beast, for that I have beastly lived, and have not taken small correcttion therefore patiently: Wherefore, O God Almighty, since I am deprived of all men's help and succour, forgive me my offences, take from me this deformity, and assist me in this extreme calamity.   

How an Hermit helped Andolocia to be rid of his Horns. Chap. 38.   Scene from Chapter 38 
IT chanced that an old Hermit which had been xxx. years in that desert, and never had seen any man, heard this piteous lamentation of Andolocia, and going to him, he said: Alas poor man, who brought thee hither, for what seekest thou in this desert? Andolocia said: good brother, God be thanked that hath sent thee hither, somewhat to my comfort; verily full sore against my will do I here remain. Then Andolocia being very hungry and faint, asked the Hermit for some meat: he brought him into his Hermitage, where was neither meat, bread, nor wine, but only fruits and water, whereby he lived: Andolocia therefore took a small refection, and then asked if he could show him by any means how to get his horns away. The Hermit wished Andolocia to follow him, going through a little path from his Hermitage, and there plucking down two Apples from another tree, willed Andolocia to eat them. So soon as he had clean swallowed the two Apples, his Horns were vanished away. Andolocia thereof was exceeding glad, & demanded of the Hermit how it came to pass that he had so soon gotten Horns, and was so soon rid of them again: The Hermit said: The Creator of all things hath given this secret nature to these two trees; neither be there their like on earth, but in this desert only. Then desired Andolocia that he might carry some of these Apples with him. The Hermit willed him to take as many as he list: But (saith he) I perceive thy mind is greatly cumbered with temporal and transitory estates, but it were far better to content thee with a com●●cent life, and not to bring thy soul in danger, for a small pleasure. But these persuasions could not now sink very deep into Andolocia's ●eart, who was now wholly bend to recover again his Purse and his Hat, and to be revenged of Agrippina. Wherefore he got as many Apples as he might conveniently carry of both sorts, and requested the Hermit to ●hew him the way to some Town. The Hermit brought him to a way lying towards a Town: wherefore he greatly thanked him, and so departed and came unto the Town: where with good meat and drink he refreshed himself. From thence went he to a Haven-Town not far off, where he found ships that were setting forth towards London, with whom he departed. As soon as he was come to London, he closed up one of his eyes, and disfigured his face with a loathsome colour, as strangely as he could devise. Then went he to the Court, and when he knew Agrippina should pass, laid abroad his Apples very handsomely upon a fine cloth and wrapped them in Sarsenet, whereby they should seem more precious, and called them Apples of Damascus. When many did require the price of them, he held them at three Crowns every Apple: so that none would buy of them, whereof he was glad, not meaning to sell of them but only to Agrippina.  
At the last when Agrippina with her Ladies passed by, he asked if it would please her grace to buy any precious Apples of Damascus. Agrippina asked what was the price of one of them? He said: Three Crowns. Then asked she what virtue was in them more than in other to be so dear? Andoloc a answered, that they would cause excellent beauty, and make a sharp wit in them which should eat of them. Agrippina then willed one of her Gentlewomen to buy two of them. Andolocia then having accomplished his purpose, put up his wares, and conveyed himself speedily away.  
And as soon as Agrippina came to her Chamber, she eat her two Apples, and presently two great horns sprang out of her head with great ache and pain, so that she laid her down to bed. When the horns were fully grown out, and her headache ceased, she felt and beheld in a glass two great horns. Then called she two of her Ladies, who blessed themselves, and were affrighted at that strange sight, and she was so astonished with shame and grief, that she could not for a while speak. Then asked they how it was come to pass, that her Noble Personage was so monstrously disfigured. She said: I wots not how, but it is a just plague of God as I suppose, or else it cometh of the Apples of Damascus, which I bought of that villainous Merchant. Wherefore I beseech you find some means that I may be rid of them.  
Then got they privately a saw, & sawed them off hard by the head, which she patiently endured: But they presently sprang up again, whereat she was greatly dismayed, and pitifully lamented, saying: O cursed and miserable wretch that I am, what availeth it me to be a King's Daughter, the richest that liveth on the Earth, and to have the praise of beauty above all other Women, and now to be thus monstrously misshapen like a br●te beast: therefore alas that ever I was born, if I cannot have speedy help, I will surely by some means shorten my life: One of her Ladies, a Witty Gentlewoman, comforted her, saying: Be patiented a while (O gracious Lady) and pluck up a cheerful heart; for no doubt as you have gotten those horns by some cause, so by removing of the same cause you may have remedy: and if any earthly thing hath power to work this effect, undoubtedly God hath created the like to take it away again. Therefore we will send for Physicians, it cannot be but that they have found written by what occasion they grow, and how they may be consumed away. Agrippina with these words was comforted with some hope, willing them to keep all things secret, and by privy means to learn if Physic might help her.  
Whereupon the Old Chamberlain went with speed to all the best Physicians, and told them: That whereas one of her Kindred had two great Horns grown out of her Head, she would know whether they could by Physic be taken away or not. The Physicians hearing of this strange infirmity, were all desirous to see the party. But the Gentlewoman said, you must not in any case see her, except you will be bound in great bonds to take them clean away, which if you can do, you shall be richly rewarded. But there was none would take upon him to take away the growing of the horns, for they had never seen, heard, nor read of the like. When the Gentlewoman thought that no remedy would be had, she was returned home again to Agrippina with a heavy heart.   

How Andolocia did counterfeit a Physician, and cured the King's Daughter of her Horns, whereby he recovered again his wishing hat and his Purse. Chap. 39   Scene from Chapter 39 
AS she was coming towards the Court, she met with Andolocia, who being apparelled like a Physician in an ancient Gown, and disfigured with a counterfeit bottlenose, said unto her: I perceive good Mistress that you have been with three sundry Physicians in my light, I pray you show me, have you sped of your purpose? Be not displeased that I am so bold to ask you this Question, for I am a Physician also: And if you have any grief, you may show it me, for it must be a very strange disease that I will not with Gods help cure and take from you. The Gentlewoman supposing that God had sent this Physician, which offered himself so luckily, said: there is a marvellous impediment chanced to a Noble Gentlewoman, out of whose head are grown two horns of a Goat, which if you can take away, that they spring no more, you shall be richly rewarded, for she hath money at will. The Physician smiling, courteously said, if that be the worst, I have the science to rid her of her horns without any pain or smart. I know well also the cause whereof they came. She earnestly requested him to declare the occasion of that strange disease. He said: She hath been unfaithful where she professed Love, and hath inwardly rejoiced at Wickedness done to her friend, which joy she durst not openly utter: howbeit, whereas it must needs in some place of the body have an issue, it is least dangerous when it breaketh out upward: for if it should not be expelled; it would so oppress the heart, that death would shortly ensue. It is not now two years since that I was in the King of Spain's Court, where an Earls Daughter of a fair and tender Complexion, had grown on her forehead two great Horns, which I by my science, and Gods help took away.  
When the Chamberlain had now great hope of his cunning, she asked where he lodged, saying: that she would presently come again to him. He said: I am lodged hereby, at the swan, there may you inquire for me; I am called the Doctor with the great Nose; and although I have another Name, yet am I best known thereby, because I am but a stranger. Then went she joyfully unto the sorrowful Princess, and said: Gracious Lady, pluck up a merry heart, and be of good cheer, you shall be shortly rid of your Horns; showing unto her how when most of the London Physicians had sent her away comfortless, she met by chance with a strange Doctor, who made light of the matter, and would warrant me to help your grief, for that he had taken away the like from an Earls Daughter of Spain before. Moreover he told me the cause whereof they did spring, which your grace doth well know, whereby I did the better believe him. Then said Agrippina, why had you not brought him with you, seeing you know how earnest I desire to be cured? Go incontinently and fetch him hither, and will him to bring all things necessary for the purpose, not sparing any cost. Take also with you to give him an hundred Crowns, and if he demand more, give him as much as he asketh. The Gentlewoman went to the Physician, gave him an hundred Crowns, saying: I pray you be now diligent, and to the patiented, that I shall bring you, must you come only by night, neither must you disclose the matter to any person; for her own father and mother as yet know not of it. The Physician said: Doubt not you of my secretness: but before I go with you, I must buy at the Apothecaries such things as are requisite: in the mean time you may stay here, or return again two hours hence: she said, I will tarry for you, for I dare not go home without you.  
Then went Andol●cia to the Apothecaries, and bought a quantity of Rhubarb, Sugar, ●nd Rose-water, and therein soaked and rolled one of his Apples, being cut in little pieces. He bought also a Box of sweet Ointment, and many other sweet odours and perfumes to delight her senses withal, and then ●ame again to the Gentlewoman who conveyed him by night to Agrippina, to whom he ●aid, let your Grace be of good comfort, and doubt not but by God's help and my science, you shall be soon eased of your disease: therefore prepare you that I may see and feel your grief. Agrippina though she were greatly ashamed to show her Horns, sat up in her Bed. The Physician viewed and handled the horns, saying: You must have upon each horn a piece of rough Apes-skin, taken warm from the Ape, and with this confection will I anoint them also. There was an old Ape in the Court which was presently slain, and the skin flayed off, of which were made two cases, as the Physician had commanded. Then did he anoint the horns and her temples with Apes-grease, and his sweet confection, and put on the cases of the skin, and said to her: This have I done to soften and mollify the horns: but they must be brawn away by purging, for the which you shall swallow these small Pills, and rest thereupon, whereby you shall perceive a speedy amendment.  
Agrippina received the purgation, which was the Apple to drive away horns, cut in small pieces, and mingled with rhubarb. And although this counterfeit Physician had used such Apish Medicines to make a show of rare cunning; yet was it the Apple indeed that only did the feat. Andolocia withdrawing himself a little aside, the Rhubarb began to work with his Patient, so that she went twice or thrice to the Stool. After a while came in the Doctor, and said: Let us see whether the Physic hath done any good, and therewith he pulled off the skins, and the horns were also diminished, whereof she was exceeding glad. Then departed he, and said, he would go to the Apothecaries again, and that the next night he could finish his cure. When he had tempered the other Apple with Sugar and Spice of another relish, he came the next night unto her again, and dressed her as he had done before, but gave her not so much of the Apple, because she should not be throughly cured, before he had talked with her, and had some likelihood to bring his purpose to pass. Wherefore as he sat by her, she being asleep, he thought with himself, two or three thousand Crowns were a sufficient reward if another had done this cure, but it is nothing comparable to the mischief she hath done unto me; wherefore before I clean take away the horns, I will let her understand my mind, to the which if she will not consent, where she thinks to be rid of her horns, I will cause them to grow so long as they were before; and then I will go into Flanders, and from thence send her word, that if she will have remedy, she shall come unto me, and bring with her the wishing-Hat and Purse. As he was thus devising, came in the Gentlewoman with a candle to see Agrippina, who was asleep,   

How Andolocia by chance found the Wishing-Hat. Chap. 40.  
IT chanced that Andolocias' Cap fell from his head, so that when he stooped to take it up again, he espied his wishing-hat lying under the bed on the ground, which none regarded, for they knew not the virtue of it: neither knew the Princess herself, that by the means thereof she was conveyed out of the Court, and from the Desert; for if she had, it should not have been so negligently laid up. The Physician then sent the Gentlewoman for some Conduit Water; and in the mean while he took it up from under the Bed, and held it privily under his Gown. By this time was Agrippina awaked, then took he the skin from her Brow, to see how much the Horns were sunk, which were now become very slender, and scant an handful long, whereof Agrippina was very glad. And whereas Andolocia meant to have rough and sharp Communion with Agrippina, he was now somewhat pacified when he had the Hat, and in Courteous manner said unto her: Gracious Lady, you see that your malady is now well-diminished, the chiefest cure that resteth behind, is to drive the root of the Horns out of the skull, to the which must be used very costly medicines, which if I cannot find in this Realm, I must needs either go myself, or send some other Doctor to fetch such things whereof I shall inform him, in other Countries; which will ask great charges. Besides this, would I know what certain sum of money you will give me, when you shall be clean rid of your Horns, and that your forehead shall be as smooth as ever it was. The Princess answered, I have certainly found that your science is exxellent and true, therefore I beseech you to do your best to help me, and spare no money. The Physician said: You bid me not to spare, but I have no money, whereof I should be liberal. For Agrippina (as naturally all Women be more niggardly than men) was careful in sparing, though she had a Purse which could not be empty. Howbeit when he craved her liberality so plainly, she went to her Coffer and brought out the Purse, hanging it at her girdle, wherein were also her best jewels; the same she tied about her middle, and went to the Window, where she counted out three hundred Crowns. When Andolocia perceived she had the Purse and jewels about her, he groped under his Gown, as though he sought for a Purse to put his money in, cast off his Cap, set on his Hat, clasped Agrippina fast about the middle, and wished himself in a solitary Desert, which was presently accomplished by the virtue of the Hat. When Agrippina was thus suddenly gone, the Gentlewoman of the Chamber ran to the Queen, and told her that a Physician had carried away her daughter in such sort as the Merchant had done, and declared what had chanced concerning the Horns. The Queen with this heavy news was astonished: but yet hoped that she would quickly return, as she had done before the other time. But when she came not again after one day and a night passed she was exceeding sorrowful, and recounted unto the KING also, how strangely all things had chanced, and how the Physician had conveyed her away.  
The King said, he is indeed a wise Physician, and hath I warrant you more knowledge than the common sort: It is none other than Andolocia, whom you have falsely deceived. For it is no other like but he that gave unto him such a Purse, hath given him such Wisdom also, when he should lose it, to recover it again. It is the will of God that he only should enjoy the Purse, and none else; like as his pleasure is that I should be only King of this Realm: would God therefore that we had but our Daughter again, and with the Purse well might he speed that hath most Right thereto.  
Then said the Queen, let us send forth Messengers into every coast, to hear of her if it may be, lest she come to some poverty and distress.  
The King said, it were in vain to seek her, until God restore her again and also it were a shame for us that we have kept her no better. But when Andolocia and Agrippina were alone in the desert, he cast off the Doctor's Gown, and plucked away his counterfeit great nose; whereby she perceived it was Andolocia, to whom she could not yet speak for shame & fear, for that he looked on her with such an angry & grim countenance, as though he would have presently killed her. And first he drew a knife, and cutting her girdle asunder, took the purse, and fastened it to his Doublet where it was before, whereat Agrippina trembled and quaked with great fear. Then said Andoloc●a a fiercely unto her: O thou false faithless Woman, thou art now fallen into my power, where I will requite the Treason thou didst Conspire against me, when thou tookest the Purse from me. How could thy Heart serve thee (thou Perjured Wight) to show such unkindness towards me, who committed unto thee both my secrets, body, and goods, and so often adventured myself to just, and to use other feats of Chivalry only for thy sake? For recompense whereof thou wroughtest me such mischief, and broughtest me into such desperate misery, that if God of his grace had not comforted me, I had surely destroyed my body, and thereby damned my soul. Now be thine own judge, whether it be reason that I take as little pity on thee, as thou hast done on me,  
Agrippina distilling many tears, lamentably said: O virtuous and valiant Knight, I confess that I have done dishonestly, and have intolerably abused you: yet notwithstanding have some compassion on me, and consider the frailness aod ignorance that is naturally in Women more than in Men, and do good for evil, as it becometh a Christian, Virtuous and valiant Knight. Andolocia answered: but the misery and shame that I have sustained by thee, went so near my heart, that I can hardly Forget or Forgive. Then said she again: yet Andolocia for the love of God advise yourself, what dishonour it would be for you to avenge your Wrath on a poor Woman, being alone with you as a Prisoner in the Desert, the report whereof you may suppose would be a great blemish unto your Noble Chivalry. Then said Andolocia: Well Agrippina, though thou deserve no mercy, yet will I restrain from tyranny, and do promise the by my Knighthood, that I will neither distain thy honour, nor hurt thy body. But thou hast one token on thy head, which thou shalt carry with thee to thy Grave, that thou mayest the better remember thy unfaithfulness towards thy Lover. Agrippina being glad that she had escaped Violence or Death, thanked him, and therewith said: Now would God my Horns were away, and I were again in my Father's Palace. Andolocia hearing her begin to wish, suddenly caught up the Hat, that lay not far from her, and held it fast in his hand: Whereby Agrippina perceived that he greatly esteemed the Hat, and that by virtue of it she was thrice conveyed, whereat she was inwardly vexed, that she had esteemed and kept the Hat no better. But she earnestly entreated Andolocia that he would clean rid her of her Horns, and convey her again to her Father. To whom he said: It is bootless for thee to crave that of me (be thou never so importunate) but thou must have the Horns during thy Life. Notwithstanding I will carry thee so near thy Father's Palace, that thou mayest see it; but I mean myself not to come no more there. She requested him again twice or thrice, to deliver her of her Horns, but he was fully determined not to grant her request.  

How Andolocia put fair Agrippina in a House of Religion.  
WHen Agrippina saw that no Entreaty would prevail, she said: Since I must needs continue thus shamefully disfigured, I will not covet to come any more into England, neither to see Father or Mother, or any other of my friends; but convey me I pray you into some strange place, where I am unknown: And if you would place me in some House of Religion, where I might keep me close from all Worldly Affairs and Company, I were greatly beholden unto you.  
Then said Andolocia: That will I not stick to do for you.  
With that he prepared himself, bound his Hat fast on his Head, took her by the middle, and conveyed her into Ireland, near unto St. Patrick's Purgatory, where there was a great Nunnery of Noble Women. He leaving her thereby in the fields, went unto the Abbess of the House, and told her that he had brought with him an honest and noble Virgin, which is very fair and beautiful, save that certain knobs are spring out of her Head, whereof she was so ashamed, that she could not abide with her friends, but requested to be in some solitary place where she was unknown. Wherefore if it will please you to take her into your Cloister, to be one of your company, I will pay her portion thrice double. The Lady Abbess answered, saying: Every Gentlewoman that is in this Cloister entertained, must pay at her first entrance, two hundred Crowns, for they be every one allowed a Waiting-Maid, and do want nothing that is convenient for them: If you will then pay the Duties thrice double, bring her hither whatever she be.  
Andolocia went forthwith and brought Agrippina to the Abbess, who bid her hearty welcome. Agrippina thanked her so mannerly, and with such courteous demeanour, that the Abbess well perceived she was born of Noble Lineage, and pitied her greatly, that such a comely personage should be so disfigured with Horns. Then declared she unto her the Orders of the House, and that the greatest charge was to keep the only Ordinary Hours of Divine Service; and that the Custom of their House was not altogether so strait as other Nunneries, but that when they were disposed to leave the Order, they might departed and marry, leaving behind them the money that was given with them at their entrance. Agrippina said, Madam Abbass, your orders be so tolerable, that no Christian may mislike thereof; which I to the utmost of my power will learn to observe. Then did Andolocia count unto the Abbess six hundred Crowns requiring her to entertain and to treat Agrippina courteously, which she promised faithful, to do, for she was glad to have received so muc● money for one sister. Andolocia took leave of th● Abbess, and said to Agrippina: God bless you and give you health to live quietly in this Cloister. She therewith Weeping bitterly, said Right courteous Knight, yet remember me er● it be long, and deliver me from this thraldom for I shall have little joy to serve God, or do any thing else, until I be rid of these Horns These Words Andolocia printed in his mind but gave her no other answer but this, saying When it pleaseth the Lord you shall have Remedy; and so departed.  
The sorrowful Agrippina went in with th● Abbess, who appointed her a fair Chamber and a Maid to wait on her, where she live● solitarily, and served God so well as she might When Andolocia had thus well rid himself o● Agrippina, and obtained his purpose in all respects, he was a joyful Man; and setting his Hat on his Head, wisheth himself from one Country to another, until he came t● Bridges in Flanders, where he solaced himself with all manner of Pastime, in th● company of fair women. He there also bough xl. goodly Horses, and entertained as man men, and clothed them all in a Livery, an used to practise himself again in feats of Chivalry. From Bridges he road thorough Germany, and saw most of the fair Cities of the Empire, and from thence passed by Venice, Florence, and Genua, where he sent for the Merchants of whom he had bought his jewels, and paid them in ready money. After that he took shipping with his men and his horses, and come joyfully home to Famagosta to his brother, who received him gladly, and liked well that he came home ●s stately.  
When they had dined together, Ampedo walked with his brother into the Garden, and asked him how he had sped in all his affairs? Andolocia told him at large what had happened concerning the purse, and the Hat, the Hermit in the desert, the strange Apples, and Agrippina, whom he had left with Horns on her head.  
Ampedo marvelled at his strange adventures, & yet greatly rejoiced that he was now ●ase come home with the purse and the hat, both which Andolocia offered to his Brother; but Ampedo said: I will not have the Purse at all, ●t bringeth him that hath it to such care and ●anger, as I have read of our Father, and now ●eard the like of thee: Andolocia was thereof ●ery glad and after he had been a while at Fanagosta, exercising himself in martial pastime, ●e road with all his men unto the Court to see ●he King, of whom he was honourably entertained, and demanded where and how he had ●ent his time in travel. Andolocia made report at large of all the Countries whereby he had passed; but concealed his secret mischances and adventures. Then demanded the King, whether he had been lately in England? He answered, that it was not long since he came thence. Then said the King: the King of England hath a fair Daughter named Agrippina, who is the only Heir to the Crown, to whom I supposed to have married my Son, if all parties should agree: But I heard say lately, that she was suddenly conveyed away, none can tell whether: can you certify me whether she be yet found again or not? Andolocia said: thereof I can inform your Grace. It is most true that he hath a daughter that is very beautiful, who by some conveyance of Negromancy was brought into Ireland, and there is remaining in a Religious House of Gentlewomen, with whom not long agone I had long talk.  
The King asked: May it not be brought to pass, that her Father may have her again? for I am old, and would fain establish my Son in Marriage, and the Realm in good order before I die.  
Andolocia said: Gracious Lord to pleasure your Majesty and your Son, I will travel in the matter, and will cause her in short space to be brought again into her Father's Palace. The King required him to do it, and to spare no charges, promising to consider him well for his travel, and largely to requite his courtesy, if he could bring it to pass. Andolocia said: let your Grace appoint a Noble Embassage, and let them be sent fourtéen days after me into England, and they shall find her at London in her Father's Palace: It were also expedient that there were also a Lively Picture drawn of the young Prince, which the Ambassadors may show unto the King and Queen, whereof they cannot but like very well, if it be truly and cunningly limned. The King thanked him for his advice, willing him to accomplish his Promise, and all things should be done as he had said.  
The young Prince also requested Andolocia to be diligent in the matter, for that he was greatly desirous to see her, having heard so great commendation of her beauty: Andolocia promised both the King and his Son, to do his best: and so taking his leave of them, went to Famagosta, there borrowed he the wishing hat of his brother, & willing his steward to let his men be well used, & to want for nothing that was expedient for them in his absence: saying; that he would very shortly return: wert out of sight, set the hat on his head, & wished himself in the wilderness, where the Apples were that would procure and take away horns, where he found the trees laden with Apples. Now witted he not certainly which was the one from the other: howbeit at all adventure he tasted of the one tree, & there presently sprang horns on his head. After that he did eat the Apples of the other, & the horns vanished away. So took he of both sorts with him, and from thence conveyed himself unto the Abbey in Ireland, where he knocked, and was let in to speak with the Lady Abbess; of whom he required licence to talk secretly with Agrippina. The Abbess knowing him very well, called Agrippina unto him; who when she saw Andolocia, looked on him with a strange countenance, not knowing the intent of his coming, and therefore was somewhat afraid. Andolocia taking her a little aside, said unto her: Lady Agrippina, tell me, if you were now rid of your horns, where would you wish to be? Agrippina said: You may well suppose that I would then long to be with the King my Father, and the Queen my dear Mother. Then said Andolocia, God hath heard thy Prayer Agrippina, and thou shalt obtain thy desire: with that he gave her an Apple, and willed her to eat it, and rest thereupon a while, and when she did rise again, her Horns should be clean consumed away. Agrippina did as she was willed, and when she awake, she felt that all was well, wherewith it is to be thought the did not a little rejoice.  
Then called she her waiting-maid, to help to comb and trim her head, which being done, she came before the Abbess, who marvelled greatly to see such a sudden change; and calling her Ladies to behold her also; they wondered likewise that she was become so beautiful, and so clean rid of the Horns, as there remained no sign of them; wherefore they all sang praise to God for his miracle shown. Then said Andolocia: Agrippina is a Princess of a King's Lineage; I must now take her from you, and carry her to her Father and Mother again, and before a month be ended she shall be married to a young King, being of a fair and comely personage, as likely to be seen. Andolocia gave unto the Abbess and her company an hundred Crowns, and thanked them for their gentle entertainment and usage of Agrippina: she herself also gave them most courteous thanks. And so taking both their leaves, they went forth into the field, where Andolocia setting his hat on his head, carried her to London by the King's Palace, and forthwith departed to Famagosta.    

How Agrippina was espoused to the young King of Cyprus. Chap. 42.  
WHen Agrippina was now come into the Court, there was exceeding joy and gladness on every behalf: and the King and Queen ordained a solemn Feast, and adorned her in most sumptuous attire, that all the Courtiers & Commonalty might rejoice with them, for the return of their fair daughter, that they supposed to have been lost. As the King, the Queen, and the Nobility were in the midst of their mixth and pastime, there was tidings brought, that the King of Cyprus had sent a noble Embassage to entreat of a Marriage between Agrippina and the young Prince of Cyprus. The Ambassadors at their coming were very honourably entertained after their estate, whereof the one was a Duke, and the other two were Earls, with many other Knights and Gentlemen, who did their Embassage before the King and the Counsel, and had so far thereof concluded, that they began to confer about the dowry and the wedding-day. When the Queen perceived that they had almost determined of the matter, it grieved her that her Daughter should be carried so far into a strange country, and to be married to one of whose demeanour, favour, and personage, she was altogether ignorant. Then required the Ambassadors that the Queen might come in presence, to whom they shown that painted Portraiture of the young Prince, affirming with an oath, that the person whom that picture did represent, was rather more amiable than the Image did express and that he was but four & twenty years of age. With this they were all pleased, and the Queen, who took the picture and brought it to Agrippina, showing it to her, and how they had determined to marry her unto a young King, which was more beautiful than the Picture could show. Agrippina remembering the words of Andolocia in the Abbey, gave the more credit, and granted her consent, that what her father and the Queen should do in that behalf, she would be obedient thereto.  
When it was perceived that Agrippina was willing to consent, they concluded fully of the Marriage. Then were their ships prepared with men, victuals, artillery, and sumptuous garments, and precious jewels were put to making for Agrippina: and she had assigned to attend on her many goodly and tall Gentlemen and Yeomen, and many fair Ladies and Gentlewomen. When all things were in readiness, Agrippina took her leave of her Father the King, and the Queen her Mother, kneeling and saying: Gracious Prince my Father, and Dear Beloved Lady Mother, the Almighty God have you in his Protection, and grant you health and long life: And now I must needs departed, give me I pray you your last blessing. The King said: My most dea●ly beloved Daughter; The Blessing of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, defend thee from all grief and misfortune, and grant thee to be a Mother of many Children. The Queen thereto said, Amen. Then risen up Agrippina, and went aboard the ship with all her Train: And the Mariners hoist up the sails: they passed forthwith a prosperous wind until they came altogether safe and sound unto Famagosta in Cyprus, where the King had appointed to receive her by a Duke, a Duchess, four Earls, and many Noble Ladies. There was also at her arrival a sumptuous Feast in Famogosta for all that came, and every man rejoiced that they had gotten such a fair and beautiful Queen. From thence was she conveyed by land unto Medusa, where the King kept his Court; thither were resorted all the Nobility of the Realm, both of men and women: And although she was Royally received at Famagosta, yet was she ten times better and more gorgeously entertained at Medusa, by the King, and Queen, and her Ladies, and by the young Prince & his train; all which she thanked with a merry countenance, and road joyfully unto the King's Palace. There was Feasting and Triumphs the space of six weeks after the Wedding, with such solemnity and sumptuousness as had never been seen in Cyprus before: And amongst many other rich gifts that were presented to the young Princess at the Feast; Andolocia for his part gave a whole ship full of Malmste and Muscadel; so that it was as common a drink with them during the Feast, as Beer or Ale.   

How Andolocia did best in just, whereby he got the praise of women, but hatred and envy of certain Lords. Chap. 43.  
ALL the while that the Feast lasted, the Lords & Knights practised daily just, Tourney, fight at Barriars, and such other martial exercises. And he which had quitted himself most manfully in the day, at night in the time of Dancing and Revels, the young Queen did openly set a Garland on his Head. But Andolocia was crowned with the Garland more often than any of them, and was praised for his active carriage, both of men and women. At the last it chanced on a time, Andolocia had by right deserved the Garland, yet for honour sake it was given unto the Earl Theodorus of England, who came over with the Queen, whereof Andolocia made small account; howbeit that all men said openly that Andolocia had better deserved it. And when this rumour came to Theodorus ears, it spighted him greatly, and thereby he conceived inward malice against Andolocia. Wherefore he concluded a conspiracy with the Earl of Limose (who had his House in an Isle not far from Famagosta) to put Andolocia to shame and reproach, or else to destroy him for envy, that he carried the greatest honour and praise of Knightly manhood so far from them, that no Lord, Knight, nor Squire might compare with him. Wherefore they appointed at his return towards Famagosta after the Feast, to set upon him, to slay all his men, and carry him Prisoner to Limose, out of the King's Land, where the Earl had a Castle, and that there they would rack him, and put him to such intolerable pain, that he should confess where his greatest treasure lay, and should by some privy token send for the most part of it, whereby they should keep a stately port, and his pride should be much abated.   

How Andolocia after the Feast, riding homewards to Famagosta, was taken Prisoner by the two Earls, and all his men slain. Chap. 44.  
SO when Andolocia after the Triumph had taken his leave, and was returning to Famagosta, the two Earls having appointed an ambush of men, they took Andolocia Prisoner, slew all his men, and carried him into the Castle of Limose, where he was so straightly kept, that in no wise he could come out. Then promised he unto the Keepers a great sum of money, if they would let him go free, but they durst not so do, lest that when he were at liberty he would not keep promise with them: neither durst he tell them of any great sum of money beforehand, lest they should thereby perceive the virtue of his Purse, and so might lose both the Purse and his life also. Soon after came tidings to the King that Andolocias' men were slain, & he himself gone no man knew whither, neither was it known who had committed that heinous murder. The two Earls after this wicked fact road again unto the Court, & behaved themselves as if they knew nothing thereof. When Ampedo likewise was certified what had chanced to his Brother, he requested the King's assistance to lay privy wait throughout his dominions for Andolocia. The King answered: That he was as sorry for him, as himself, and that on condition he could learn whether he was safe and alive, he would spare no money to look him, though it should cost him half his Kingdom.   

How Ampedo burned the wishing-hat. Chap. 45.  
AMpedo imagining with himself that his Brother was come into some distress by occasion of his Purse, and that by racking and torments he might be forced to confess of the Hat also, whereby he might in like manner come into the like danger; in a great fury he cast the Hat into the fire, and stood by it till it was burned to ashes. And when he could by no means hear tell what was become of his Brother, he conceived thereby such an inward grief, that for thought he fell sick, and shortly after ended his life.  
The King had caused Proclamation to be made, that whosoever could bring word whether Andolocia were dead or alive, he should have a thousand ducats in ready money, but no tidings could be heard of him. Then the Earl of Limose took his leave of the King, and departed home to his Castle, where he found Andolocia in a deep dungeon. When Andolocia saw him, he was glad, beseeching him to be merciful unto him, and to deliver him out of prison; for (said he) I wots not whose prisoner I am, neither for what cause I am thus straight penned up: if I had done wrong to any man, I will recompense it either with body or goods. The Earl said: Andolocia, thou art not brought hither to be delivered again, thou art my prisoner, and before thou depart shalt thou tell me how and from whence thou hadst to much money, to maintain such a sumptuous and Princely Port, as thou hast so long time done, or else I will so torment thee, that thou shalt be glad to show it. When Andolocia heard those cruel and threatening words, he was exceedingly afraid, his hope failed him, and he witted not how to dissemble the matter, but said on a sudden: My Father when he died, shown me a Privy which is in our House at Famagosta, wherein I should find more money than I were able to spend during my Life: and if it please you to carry me as a Prisoner thither, I will show you the experience thereof. The Earl would not be persuaded that this was the truth, but took him out of the Stocks, and racked him grievously, which he a while endured, but at the length he was so bitterly tormented, that he might no longer refrain, but shown plainly the virtue of the Purse. When the Earl heard that, he took the Purse of him, and by trial finding his saying to be true, caused Andolocia to be again set in the Stocks, and committed him to one whom he trusted well.  
The Earl then paid his Debts, stored his Castle with victuals and furniture, and road forthwith to his Companion the Earl Theodorus, who rejoiced at his coming to the court. And when they had communed together concerning the purse that the Earl had gotten of Andolocia by racking, there was no small triumphing between them on either part. But Theodorus liked not that Andolocia was left alive: For (said he) I hear it reported in the Court, that he is a Doctor in Negromancy, and can fly in the Air: Therefore it is to be feared that he will by some means escape, whereby we may both come in Danger of death. But the Earl said, he lieth so fast & sure in Prison, that I warrant you he cannot come forth. Then went they together and took out as much money as they listed, and were both alike desirous to have the purse: but to eschew all controversy, they agreed that one should have it one half year,, and the other should have it another half: and that whoso had the purse, should not suffer the other to want, or remain in danger: and that forasmuch as the Count of Limose was the elder, he should first enjoy it, The two elders having now money at will, yet were they circumspect, and durst not seem very liberal or wasteful, for fear of suspicion. But Theodorus could not be yet satisfied, as long as Andolocia was alive, for dread lest they should again lose the purse. Besides that, he purposed when he had the possession of the purse, to go so far with it, that he would be safe and sure both from the King and the Earl of Limose. And therefore he entreated of the Earl that he might have his Letters, and one of his men to see Andolocia in Prison, which the Earl granted. Then took the Lord Theodorus his leave of the King, and said, he would travel to see the pleasant commodity of his Dominion. Then road he strait unto the Prison to Andolocia, whose legs were rotten with the stocks and irons, but now he hoped that since they had his Purse, they took no more regard of him, but supposed that the Earl had sent Theodorus to let him out of Prison.   

How Andolocia when his purse was gone, was also murdered himself in Prison. Chap. 47.   Scene from Chapter 47 
But the Earl Theodorus said unto him: tell me Andolocia, host thou any more such Purses as thou hast given to the Earl of Limose? If thou hast the like bestow it on me, and I will presently let thee go free: He answered: Gracious Lord, so God help me, I have no more, but if I had, it were at your Commandment. Then said Theodorus: It is reported that thou art skilful in Negromancy, and can fly in the Air: Why dost thou not now practise thy Cunning to deliver thee from hence? He said: My good Lord, I neither have, nor never had, any pleasure in that Art; but have only had my pleasure with the Purse which ye have, the same will I freely give to you and the Earl of Limose, before God and the world, and will never make claim to it again, if you will for the Honour of God, but only deliver me poor wretched man out of this prison, lest I die here miserably.  
Theodorus said: Canst thou now submit thyself? Why wast thou not so lowly, when with such Pride and Presumption thou didst advance thyself before the King and the Queen to dishonour us all? Where are all the fair Ladies whom thou didst so well please, and which gave thee all the praise? Try now if any of them can help thee: but since thou dost so sore long to be out of Prison, I will soon deliver thee from thy sorrow. Then offered he five hundred ducats unto the Keeper to strangle Andolocia, but he would not do it, saying: He is an honest man, and very freble, so that he must needs ere it be long die of himself, but I surely will not commit such a heinous sin. Then said Theodorus: Give me a Halter, and I will Strangle him; but the Keeper would not in any case help him. Then took he his girdle that was about his middle, and casting of it about Andolocias' neck, with his Dagger writhed in it, and so strangled poor Andolocia to death, sitting in the stocks, and gave the Keeper a reward to convey the dead body out of fight. When this cruel tyrant had finished this horrid murder, he incontinently departed again to the Court, where he secretly told unto the Earl of Limose what he had done: saying; Andolocia is like to work us no more mischief, for I have killed him with mine own hands, neither could I rest before I was sure that he was dead. Now whereas the Earl in four days space had not meddled with the purse, and the half year was expired that Theodorus turn came to enjoy it as long, he demanded him to deliver it, and take as much spending money as he would. The Earl of Limose was well content, and went forthwith to the Coffer, and brought forth the Purse, casting it upon the Table. Theodorus took it in his hand, and would have Coined out some money, but there was none to be felt, neither would the Purse yield any more fruit. Then looked they strangely one on the other, not knowing that by Reason that Ampedo and Andolocia were both dead, the Purse had lost his virtue. Then the Earl Theodorus said angrily: Thou false and deceitful man, thinkest thou so fond to deceive me? by delivering unto me this simple Purse that is not worth a groat, instead of that precious Purse whereof we had so much money? fetch me therefore that which I now aught to have. He answered: It is in good faith the same Purse that I took from Andolocia, neither have I any other: but how it comes to pass that it yieldeth not as it bid before, I know not. Theodorus would not be pacified with this Answer, but was far more angry, and said he would be revenged on him whatever befell, and therewith drawing his Rapier, struck at him. The Earl of Limose having no other defence, ran within him, and stayed his hands as soon as he might, whereby they made such a noise, that their men being in the next Chamber, broke up the Doors, and parted them. Howbeit the Earl of Limose was deadly wounded therefore his men laid hold on Theodorus. When tidings came to the King, that the Earls which were great friends, had fought in a Chamber, and one almost slain the other, he commanded both to be brought before him, to inquire the cause of their debate; but Theodorus only was examined, the other being so wounded, that he could not come.   

How the two Elders by striving for the Purse were detected of the Murder, and put to death. Chap. 48.  
 Scene from Chapter 48  
WHen the King by strict Examination and grievous Racking, had violently forced Theodorus to confess how they had dealt with Andolocia, he was exceedingly grieved, & being moved with wrathful displeasure against the murderers, without longer deliberation, he gave judgement, that they should be executed with bruising their bones upon wheels, and that if the Earl of Limose were sick, he should be carried to the place of execution, and if he were dead, that his carcase notwithstanding should be set on the wheel, which was executed on the two Earls, as the King had commanded. Then sent the King also certain Officers to the Castle of Limose, to seize upon all the goods and lands of the Earl; and willed also that as many men and women as were in the castle, consenting to the murder, or that had concealed the same, should be all hanged out upon the Castle walls without any mercy. And whereas they had knowledge how the body of Andolocia was cast into a ditch by the Castle, they caused it to be taken up, and carried it to Famagosta, where it was honourably buried in the Chantry Church, which his Father had founded; for whom the King and the Queen, and the Prince, and Princess mourned, as if he had been of their near Lineage. And forasmuch as neither Ampedo nor Andolocia had any Heirs left behind them, the King took the Costly Palace into his Possession, wherein he found so much goods and ready coin, such sumptuous householdstuff, and so precious and costly jewels, that it might rather seem the Palace of some mighty Emperor, than of a Subject. In the same Palace the young King and Queen held their Court, until his Father departed out of this life; and then began they to reign and govern the whole Realm of Cyprus.  
FINIS.