Casimer, KING THE NORABLE JOHN CROPLEY ARONET.  
LONDON 〈…〉 Printed for Charles Smith at 〈…〉 Angel in Fleetstreet, 1681.   

TO THE HONOURABLE Sir JOHN CROPLEY BARONET.  
SIR,  
SO many circumstances Conspire, and I am prompted by so many obligations to make you this present, that I can no way decline it; without taxing myself with ingratitude. And yet after all I must Confess. I think this lesle an acknowledgement than a just tribute to your merit and your Virtues. For notwithstanding you have all the advantages of Body and Mind, you are so far from valuing yourself for them, and making Parade of your accomplishments, that you use all your endeavours to conceal them from the world, and contemn all those vanities which Persons of your age and Circumstances do usually pursue and hug with so much eagerness and passion. Thus Modesty seems to be your Darling Virtue, though you entertain and practise all the others on every Occasion. Wherhfore to comply with that Modesty you so much cherish I shall quit this point, which is indeed above description, and proceed to give you, Sir, some account of the offering I make you, which is an exact Relation of the Wars of the Crown of Poland with the King of Sweden in Casimers' Reign, who being an Amorous Prince, it likewise contains an Account of his Love intriqus, which indeed occasioned his own Ruin and the desolation of all, or the great est part of his Kingdom. All herein related, being generally matter of Fact, you will found but little of Fiction or Romances, and therefore cannot pretend to meet with that delicate turn of Thought and of Expression that might be expected in a piece that depended wholly, or principally upon fancy. Yet the Naked truth has such charms, as I hope will more than countervail for that disadvantage. Such as it is, Sir, I lay it at your feet and beg it may meet with your acceptance, which I was the more encouraged to do, and am in the more hopes of, for that of all the parts of Learning, I have found History to have ever had most of your kindness and favour; for which reasons I apprehended you would be the more willing to grant it your Protection, and me a Pardon for this Presumption, who am with all manner of Zeal and respect,  
SIR, Your most Humble and most Obedient Servant. F. S.   

CASIMER KING of POLAND.  
THE Kingdom of Poland is Elective, and yet the Polanders have that laudable Custom of ever choosing a Prince of the Family of their Kings. Thus Ladislaus was not sooner dead, than that Prince Casimer his Brother was Elected in his place. He was of a middle stature, brown, and something too Corpulent. He was as brave as one could be: Of a kind disposition: His Ruling passion was love, and one of the best Princes that ever Reigned. A dispensation was obtained from the Pope for his marrying the Queen Widow of Ladislaus, formerly known in France by the name of Princess Mary. He had ever had an esteem for her, and for her part she had likewise very much considered him: Insomuch that they were not much troubled to change the names of Brother and Sister for those of Husband and Wife, though the example was something rare. The good of the State served for a pretext to the real inclination they had a long time had for one another. The Ceremonies of their Marriage were hardly finished, than that the troubles which were newly appeased began again in the Kingdom, thro' a particular quarrel of a Polish Gentleman, with Chilmilenski General of the Cosaques. Those people are composed of several strangers, and principally of the Polish Peasants, who to deliver themselves from the slavery of the Nobles have abandoned their Country to retire into the ukraine, a Province bordering upon the Tartars and Turks, and abounding in all that is necessary to life. They are of the Graecian Religion under the obedience of a Patriarch, whose Residence is at Kiof, a very fair and large City, Governed under the Authority of the King of Poland. The Cosaques being obliged to defend the entrance of the Kingdom against the Infidels, they are ever Armed when they work, that they may not be surprised, and without taking any pay of the King or the Republic, they generously expose their lives, contenting themselves with the booty only that they take from the Enemies of the Crown. They are very affectionate to the King, but their hatred against the Nobles is so great, that the lest quarrels obliges them to take Arms and to revenge themselves cruelly for the offences they receive. They have never any other Leader to Command them than such as they have chosen amongst themselves: And though he were but a Shepherd, provided he be brave and fortunate in fight, they obey him very exactly and have for him a great respect.  
Chilmilenski their General was the Son of a Miller, but the Victories he gained over the Turks and Tartars, rendered him so illustrious, that he passed for one of the greatest Captains of the age. After the Death of his Father having demanded of King Casimer leave to build up again the Mill that his Father had left him, and of adding to it some Houses for the Honouring his Memory, it was granted to him in consideration of his Merit and the services he had done him and the Republic. Jarinski a Polish Colonel opposed Chilmilenski's design, and forbidden him to pass farther, saying that the Water of his Mill incommoded him, that the King commanded upon his own Lands and he upon his. But these haughty words not having at all discouraged Chilmilenski, the Colonel in his absence caused his Mill and Houses to be burnt, and misused his Wife and his Son who would have hindered him. It is easy to imagine what impression this outrage made in the Soul of that great Man. He promised no lesle to his revenge than the exterminating all the Nobility, and his Courage so well seconded him, that having raised a powerful Army, he ruined all the Nobles, on one side as far as Lublin, and thro' all Podolia as far, as Rustemburg. Women and Children were not more spared than the Churches, and those whom fire and Sword had left, were sold to the Turks; insomuch that for the burning of a Mill sixty Cities were destroyed. The Senators of the Kingdom, without whom the King undertakes nothing that concerns the Republic, beseeched him to Arm for the destroying the Cojaques, but the King refused them, saying that it was their fault, and that Jarinski aught not to have burnt Chilmilenski's Mill. Notwithstanding this refusal the Nobility composed an Army of fifty thousand men, and marched directly to the Cosaques, who expected them in good order. The Battle was given. The Polanders lost it, and ten thousand of them were killed upon the place. The Runaways were pursued more than twelve Leagues, and the Cosaques loaden with spoils and Glory returned to their homes, destroying all the places thro' which they passed, except the Lands belonging to the King.  
The Nobles irritated with this great loss, and breathing nothing but vengeance, made a Convocation of the seventh man, which is called in the language of their Country Pospolite Russin, and having joined some Germane Troops to that levy, they renewed the War contrary to the King's sentiment, who counselled them to agreed, because that the Cosaques defended the Kingdom against the invasion of Infidels. But instead of following this good advice, the King became suspected by them, though he went himself to command their Army.  
The Cosaques having notice of these preparations, took the field with fifty thousand men, and their spies having informed them that the Polanders were encamped beyond the Nieper, and were not upon their Guard, relying on their great Numbers, they passed secretly the River one Night, and having surprised the Enemies they killed six thousand of them upon the place, put the rest into disorder, and pursued them as far as Zamosh, took all the baggage and four and twenty pieces of Canon, which they sent to Kiof for a mark of their Victory; and having laid feige to the City after the Trenches having been opened a Month, they became Masters of it. Chilmilenski by these great advantages having made himself formidable, proposed to the Duke of Walachia an offensive League against Poland, and the Marriage of his Son with the Duke's Daughter; but there being some difficulty made in it, whether because of the unequality of their conditions, or because that having married his Eldest Daughter to Prince Radezivil, he could not quit the party of the Polanders. Chilmilenski threatened to drive him out of his states: Insomuch that for the avoiding of the War, the Duke consented to the Marriage, upon condition that after the Death of Chilmilenski, his Son should succeed in the Generalship; which was granted him by all the Cosaques. The Polanders having notice of the day that the Nuptials were to be celebrated, drew up with design to trouble the Feast, well imagining that the Cosaques would not be upon their Guard. In truth, these not dreaming of any thing but Mirth, were surprised in the City of Kiof, which the Polanders ruined without much trouble. The Nobles who were detained Prisoners there, were freed, the Greek Churches destroyed and pillaged, the Patriarch carried away prisoner, and the Cosaques were so weakened by this unexpected blow, that they appeared to be in the extremest consternation. Being however recovered from their astonishment, they sent an Ambassador to the King, to demand of him if it was by his order that action had been done, pretending their Patriach should be restored them, and a reparation made them proportionable to their loss. The King having answered that Ambassador that he had neither ordered Chilmilenski's Mill should be destroyed, nor that the City of Kiof should be ruined, but that the Nobility had done it of their own motion to recompense themselves for their losses; the Cosaques joined themselves to the Tartars, and entered Podolia, committing all the Hostilities that War inspires desperate people with. The Nobles being acquainted with this new irruption, told the King plainly, that if he did not march at their head, they would have recourse to Ragoski Duke of Transilvania, and choose him in his stead. The King, who had reason to apprehended it, and who had a long time known their ill intentions, promised to march with the Germane Trops; with which they were not pleased, because they would have had them mingled amongst them. In fine the Army came to Cantinitz Podolski, which is a very strong City, where after several little rencounters, was sought a bloody Battle, wherein the Cosaques were beaten, being constrained to fly. But as they had made their Magazines in the Marshes, and that they expected secure, they retired thither, and the Palanders believing that they should infallibly Perish there, blocked up the Casaques, whose succours being arrived they cut of from the Polanders all passage for Victuals, and constrained them to make immediately a disadvantageous Peace. This Peace was not signed, insomuch that Casimer retired to Warsaw, and the Nobles to their Houses, extreat●ly humbled by their great losses, and very ill satisfied with him, accusing him of favouring the Cos●ques.  
The King having a tender Soul, and being not longer possessed with thoughts of War, Love appeared to him more agreeable. The Vicechancellor Ragieski, had for some few years been Married to a young Lady whose Beauty had made a great deal of noise at Court. She was in her two and twentieth year, of a middle Stature, but very well Carriaged, her Eyes were black, full and well turned, and whose Luster and sweetness inspired affection in all who saw her, her Nose well made, her mouth pretty, and all parts of her face so well proportioned, that having therewith a Wit very gay and Gallant, few persons have been seen more accomplished. The Vicechancellor usually kept her at a Country House near Warsaw, as it is the Custom of all the Polish Lords, whose Wives go seldom to Court, giving them a kind of Governess for to watch over their actions when civility obliges them to bring them thither. The Reputation of the Vice-Chancellours Lady had given the King that pressing desire that one has of seeing persons whose Beauty is famous, and her presence at Court so well completed what her Reputation had begun, that he became infinitely in love. He felt in his heart all those violent motions which we usually are sensible of at the birth of great passions; but this violence so agreeably deprived him of his liberty, that without considering he should have a thousand obstacles to conquer, he abandoned himself without referve to the power of that Lady. There are Kings who are so made that they need only to speak to make themselves beloved, but Casimer was not of this Number, and his power did not reach so far. He feared the Queen, and he knew to what excesses the Polanders proceed when they are jealous. Wherhfore he contented himself to show in the ning more complaisance to the Vice-Chancellours Wife than to the other Ladies of the Court, and sometimes fixing his looks upon her they made her clearly see what hers had produced in his heart. But his passion was too violent to remain long in silence. The Baron de Saint-Cir, a French Gentleman, had been some years at the Court of Poland, his good mien, his wit, his conduct and his Bravery had acquired him the Reputation of a very Gallant man. He often saw the Vicechancellor Ragieski, who seemed to be much his friend, and the King who naturally loved all the French, honoured him also with a particular esteem, whether for his merit, or that he was a Relation of the marchioness des Roches the Governess of the Queen's Maids of Honour, who had a great kindness for him. All these considerations obliged the King to choose him to be the laterperter of his Love, and to deceive the foresight of those whose interest it was to traverse him. Wherhfore he caused him to come one day into his Cabinet, where after having given him new marks of his bounty, he gave him in charge to make known his Sentiments to the Vice-Chancellours Lady, declaring to him of what importance it was for his repose. Thomas the Commission was nice, the Baron knowing the jealous humour of Ragieski, he made no difficulty of accepting it; and of telling the King that he esteemed himself so happy in the Honour that he did him by trusting him with so important a secret, that he should willingly sacrifice his life to tender his Majesty all the service he was capable of. The King, who expected no lesle from the Baron's inclination, promised to make him a Royal acknowledgement, and having immediately took the Measures they judged necessary for the succeeding well in this enterprise, which was to be so fatal to Casimer, and all the Kingdom; the Baron retired to his apartment to think of it at leisure. As he had the liberty of going often to Ragieski's House, he applied himself more particularly than he had done before to show kindness to all those of the Family, and having an insinuating and an agreeable wit, he became so much in the favour of her who was instead of a Governess to the Vice-Chancellours Lady, that being enarmed with his Civilities, she was mighty complaisant to him. He took occasion to speak often of the King and than exaggerated his liberality, his tenderness, his goodness, and his other great Qualities, in terms so advantageous that it made this Woman desirous of trying them. After having thus disposed her mind, he cunningly made the Vice-Chancellours Lady observe the earnestness the King was in of seeing her when she was at Court; and even sometimes told her smiling, that he believed she had made him her conquest: and he so often repeated it to her in the presence of her Governess, that being fair and having no lesle ambition than Beauty, he remarked that it did not at all displease her. He informed the King thereof, who redoubled his cares. The Lady perceived it with joy, and the Baron having made the Governess his confident in the affair, who fancied her fortune was thereby made, they resolved together that the King should writ to her that he might explain himself more precisely. The Governess promised to do her devoir, and some days after the King wrote to the Lady in these terms.  
I Love you, Madam, and this aught not to surprise you. You are so Beautiful that it is impossible long to resist your Charms: and in what Elevation soever we are one is very glad to wear your chains. Wherhfore try if you please, Madam, the most sincere passion that ever was. Let not my greatness give you any ombrage; and surmount as I have done all the vain seruples which might hinder as from becoming happy, since never Prince was more disereet, than  
CASIMER.  
The Baron having taken an occasion of speaking in particular to the Vice-Chancellours Lady, gave her the Letter that the King sent her. She changed colour several times as she read it, and there appeared such an alteration in her face, that he looked upon it as a good augure; however after having read 〈◊〉, she said nothing more to him, than that she was very much obliged to the King for the Honour ●he did her, and that she had no answer to make. The Baron would have spoke to her, but persons of Quality coming in, he retired and went to give an account to Casimer of what he had done. This Prince was so satisfied with what he acquainted him, though he could not fix any certainty, that after having told him the most obliging things he could have hoped, he presented him with a Diamond of great value. While that the King flattered himself agreeably with the hopes of being beloved, she for her part felt agitations that were not usual to her; and calling back into her memory all those obliging and passionate looks by which he explained himself when she was at Court, she did not at all doubt of her Conquest. But his Letter so positively assured her, that notwithstanding all the considerations which aught to have discouraged her, she took a delight in believing it. Casimer was as well made as Ragieski, though a King, she was young, he promised to be discreet and faithful, all this very much shaked her mind, and she became more thoughtful than she used to be. Her Governess who was not ignorant of the cause, asked her however the occasion of her Melancholy. She excused herself a long time from telling it her, but she pressed her to it after so engaging a manner, and with so many Protestations of serving her faithfully, that she could not resist any longer. She embraced her tenderly, and after having told her that the happiness of her life consisted in keeping the secret she imparted to her, she showed her the King's Letter. The Governess pretended to be surprised, she read it seriously, and having remonstrated ●o the Lady the danger she exposed ●er self to by the noise that this passion would make in the world, she ●hen spoke to her in so advantageous a manner of the King's tenderness, that after having eyed her with a ●ind of compassion, she promised ●o manage things so cunningly, that there needed no more to determine ●er to receive favourably his Vows. Whereupon going to Court in the Evening, the King explaining to her as his custom was the condition his Soul was in she answered him so obligingly, that he did not at all doubt but that he should be happy. He appeared on the sudden in the gayest humour imaginable, and without showing any affectation he approached the Vice-Chancellours Lady, to whom he reiterated the Protestations he had made her in his Letter of loving her Eternally. That Charming person whom the King discourse caused to blush, replied with a great deal of Modesty and sweetness. It is so little credible Sir, that you can be in the condition you would persuade us, that i● I could flatter myself that a grea● Prince as you are could love sincerely, I should take a sensible delight i● your passion: But, Sir, so many things oblige me not to add Faith to your words, that I dare not tell you I could wish they were real. How agreeable was this Confession to the King! His joy made him for a long time immovable, and than of a sudden that same joy having furnished him with the Eloquence o● satisfied Lovers, the Protestatoin● and Oaths that he made to that Lady perfectly conquered her. It wa● thus they were engaged, there wa● nothing more wanting to complete their happiness, than the finding 〈◊〉 convenient place to entertain on● another without witnesses. The ●ince gave order to the Baron to ●●ak thereof to the Vice-Chancellours Lady. But as he was endeavouring it, and that the King expected with impatience that happy moment, he was obliged to go into the ●●mpagne to defend himself against the Invasion of the Great Duke of Moscovy, who without any reason broke the Peace that King Ladislaus had made with him. That Prince assisted by the Cosaques took the City of Smolensko, and they made such other considerable Progresses in Lithuania, that the ruin of the Kingdom was with reason apprehended. Casimer caused of his own proper motion succours to be demanded of the Duke of Transilvania, of the Hospidars, of the Tartars and of the other people of those Countries; but all these Forces not being equal to those of the Enemies, he could not hinder the ruin of Vilna the Capital City of Lithuania; all persons there above fifteen years old were put to the Sword, and the rest were carried to Moscovy, to be brought up there in the Greek Religion. It is easy to imagine the deplorable Condition these sad Conjunctures put the King in. He loved his people tenderly, but he loved his Mistress more; Insomuch that one may say that never was Prince agitated with so many passions at a time. The Vice-Chancellours Lady was no more at ease than he, for he begun to be dear to her: She apprehended the losing him amongst the hazards of War, or that absence might diminish the passion he had showed her before his departure. All that the Baron could say to her to assure her of the Contrary did not satisfy her: And if the Winter had not brought the King back to Warsaw, that fair person would not have been able to have concealed any longer, the displeasure she had in Her mind. But all these Clouds were dissipated at the moment they saw one another again; the King neglected the sares of War, to think of nothing but pleasing that Lady; and she likewise abandoned herself to the motions of her Passion, after a manner so obliging to him, that he had nothing more to wish for, than the vanquishing a weak resistance. They enjoyed for some time, all the softest pleasures that a blooming passion usually gives; and Love took care of banishing from their minds, all the ill humours and disquiets that might traverse their contentment. But whether that Ragieski had perceived any thing, or that the necessity of his affairs obliged him to go into the Country, he carried his Lady thither, and departed so suddenly from Warsaw, that she had not time of bidding Adieu to any body. Casimer was not a little astonished when he was told the news of it; he had in his mind all that Choler could inspire the most furious with; he vowed the ruin of the Vicechancellor, and in fine became so out of humour, that all the Court perceived it, each One endeavouring to penetrate into its Cause; The Baron was the only One that knew it, and it was to him alone he discovered his most secret thoughts, and to whom in the first transports of his grief, he said the most touching things imaginable. But as this violent Condition could not last long, and that the Vice-Chancellour's House was not far distant from Warsaw; the Baron in some manner eased the King's sufferings, in giving him hopes, that under pretence of hunting he might procure him an interview with his Mistress, and adding to that, that he should likewise found the Conveniency of conveying to her his Letters, and receiving of her Answers with safety; He seemed satisfied, and left to him the care of managing the business. The Vicechancellor kept a breed of Race Horses in his Park; he had several times desired the Baron, who understood riding very well, to go see his Horses; he took that time to satisfy him, and to deliver to his Lady a Letter the King had given him in Charge. Ragieski received the Baron with a great deal of joy; but his Lady saw him with much more, she needed him for the diminishing the grief that the King's absence caused in her: And when the Baron had given her the King's Letter, she recovered her good humour: It was in these terms.  
MAy I ask you, Madam, what has obliged you to quit me so promptly? But how could you do it without bidding me Adieu? do not you very well know that being the most ●n Love of all men, it was to abandon me to all the greatest Cruelties one could suffer in the World? Return hither Madam, and bring back the joy and pleasures which have followed you, or let what will hap I will go see you: Life is insupportable to me, when you are absent, and never any one loved more passionately, than  
CASIMER.  
The Vice-Chancellor's Lady, who went into the Country against her will, was in no lesle pain there, than the King at Warsaw; and her passion for him was come to that point, that Ragieski seeing her in an extraordinary melancholy, begun to observe her more strictly, to endeavour to discover its cause, and even pressed her very often to tell it him; But as his importunities augmented her ill humour; the Baron came very conveniently to remove it, and Casimer's Letter dispersed all her fears: She ' had at the lest as much impatience as he to be at Warsaw; she pretended to be sick that she might return thither. But Ragieski not believing the disease very pressing, still delayed his departure. In the mean time she passionately longed to see the King, and yet she apprehended his impatience would make him come, because that her Husband would have certainly discovered their Commerce. In this uncertainty a middle way was to be found out. There was a very fine house two Leagues from theirs, belonging to an Officer of the Crown; the Baron proposed to the Vice-Chancellor's Lady to make a party for hunting there, where he would 'cause the King to come; she approved the expedient, and as nothing is impossible to women of wit, she so well managed the business that Ragieski himself proposed to the Baron the hunting a Stag two days after: for the better concealing his design, he pretended to have business which obliged him to return. This caused his stay to be the more pressed, and all being thus resolved, he wrote to the King, marking precisely the Place where he might see the Vicechancellors Lady; and that he might add faith to his words, she wrote him this Letter.  
YOu know I love you Sir, and it is enough to persuade you that I was brought hither against my william. But is it true that you endure as much as you say? Ah ●af it be so, I have reason to be contented with the trouble your absence causes me. But why should you deceive me? Ought not my tenderness to assure me of yours? And why should not you suffer? Come than Sir, to the place appointed, and believe that besides the pleasure of hunting, you will likewise have there the pleasute of Jeaing the person of the world, the most really Yours.  
The Baron gave this Letter to his Gentleman of the Horse, to carry it to the King. But though the success of his voyage aught to have given him a great deal of joy, as he passionately loved the Marchioness das Reches, whose absence made him in an extreme pain, he could not help showing his uneasiness: Ragieski believing that the Baron was weary of his house, did all he could to divert him; and seeing that notwithstanding his Caresses and his good Treatment, he still reserved so great a Melancholy that he could not conceal it, he fancied him to be in Love, he had already rallied him upon that point several times at Warsaw, seeing him so assiduous with the Marchioness des Roches his Relation. But though they were often together, he had never made him his Confident. Wherhfore he renewed his earnestness in so civil and gallant a manner, that the Baron did really avow to him his passion. Ragieski believing there must needs be something extraordinary in their intrigue, obliged the Baron to make him the recital of it, and after having promised secrecy, the thing being of consequence enough, the Baron thus began his History.   

THE HISTORY OF THE Baron de SAINT-CIR.  
DUring the last Civil wars which caused so much disorder in France, my Father who is of one of the best Families of Guyenne, sent me to Paris, where the Queen Regent Anne of Spain kept her Court. I was than four and twenty years old, and though I had not all the necessary qualities to make me be distinguished in the finest Court of the world, I dare however affirm that in a little time I procured a great many Friends. As I had ever had a great passion to see Italy, and that my Father had hindered me from it, because that I was the only Son, and he loved me tenderly, it was with a great deal of trouble that he consented to my making that voyage. But after having taken all the necessary measures for the satisfying my curiosity: One day as I went to the Lovure, to take leave of a friend of mine, a person of Quality; I met a young Lady, who being left a Widow without Children, saw herself obliged to dispute with the Heirs of her deceased Husband, a piece of land of great value that he had given her at his Death: Her shape being of the most advantageous, caused me ●o stop to consider it; I felt in my heart so great a desire of knowing nor, that I could not hold from following her; she being deirous to present a Petition to the Queen and to beg her Protection, she addressed herself to the Captain of the Guards, who was the same I was also looking for: Love being resolved to make me feel its darts, would make use of that Occasion to learn me his Laws; for the Marchioness des Roches (thus was that Lady called) made the recital of her affans, in so witty and gallant a manner, that being likewise as you know very pretty, I interessed myself in her affairs, as if she had been very consider able to me. I forgot the design I had made of travelling, and believing that I could never do any thing more agreeable or advantageous to myself, than to make my applications to that fair Widow: I thought of ●o thing but the means I should make use of for the acquainting her with my sentiments: Wherhfore after having thought a while, I in●●●● the Marchioness, whom I had still eyed very attentively, for to cell my friend, that though I was persuaded that his Generosity would insallib●y move him to serve her, I however joined my Prayers to hers, and conjured him to employ his Credit, and to procure her a favourable Audience of the Queen. And than addressing myself to her, I told her, with an air that made apparent the part I took in what concerned her. I could not hope, Madam, to be happy enough to offer my services to so lovely a person as you, but since my good fortune has given me some part in my Lord's friendship, I could not let this occasion pass without testifying to you, in recommending to him your interests, the extreme passion I have of serving you; and I should hearty desire, Madam, that time would furnish me with more favourable Ones, that I might the better make appear, the zeal and respect I have for your Ladyship. The Marchioness, whom these words caused to blush, answered me with a Modesty that perfectly charmed me lought, without doubt, my Lord, to attribute to your generosity alone, the obliging offers you make me; for not knowing in myself any quality that might procure me so gallant a man as you for Protector, I should be very vain to believe that my merit had engaged you to take so much part in my interests; and Heaven, that always protects afflicted persons, must needs have sent you on purpose hither, to give me mark of your goodness. While we were thus discoursing, an Officer came and informed us that the Queen was going out, the Captain gave his hand to the Marchioness to present her to her Majesty; she was received very favourably, and after that the Queen was mounted into the Coach, I did all that I could to accompany the Marchioness to her house, but she would not consent to it; Insomuch that I returned to my house with sentiments very opposite to these that had brought me to the Lovure Paris seemed to me a thousand times more charming than I had ever found it, and felt myself so taken with the Beauties of the Marchioness, that I entirely renounced the desire of travelling, to think only of the means of pleasing her. Love, to be well received in fouls, enters them usually attended with graces and joys, that he may the more easily Master them, represented to me the Marchioness as the most lovely person in the world, in making me sometimes remark with pleasure that sweetness which accompanies all her actions, and than the vivacity of her Wit, and that gallant turn she gives to things; insomuch that never having been in that condition, I admired so extraordinary a change, having thus made several reflections upon my adventure, I went to bed, thinking to sleep; but I had hardly shut my Eyes to abandon myself to sleep, that that the Marchioness represented herself to my fancy, with yet more Charms than I had found in her. I awaked contrary to my custom which surprised me, and after having in vain endeavoured to fall asleep again, I discoursed thus to myself: Whence proceeds it that in a moment all my Curiosity is vanished? I have not longer that strong passion which has so long tormented me; and only for one time seeing the Marchioness des Roches, I found myself disquieted and pensive: What will it than be when I shall know her more particularly? Not, not, I'll have no engagement with a person who produces so extraordinary effects, the Consequences would be too fatal to my repose, and I should deprive myself of the thing I esteem the most in the world: Wherhfore He departed and remove myself from these places before I'll be engaged; Neither can I well justify a delay of this Nature to my Father, or all my friends, of whom I have taken leave. But alas what do I say! to go from Paris● my heart cannot consent to it, what I should leave there is more worth than all the rest of the Universe. My fair Widow, aught to be to me instead of all my voyages, and I shall take an extreme pleasure in seeing her, perhaps she will not be insensible to my Vows, and that in fine I shall be happy enough not to displease her. Let none talk to me any more of travelling, I have lost the thoughts of it; and since we must once loose our liberties, and become slaves, Ah! may it be the adorable Marchioness, who has not her like. Having besides made several other Reflections, it was impossible for me to sleep: Insomuch that the day being far advanced without any of my servants having been in my Chamber, one of my friends who was surprised to see me so long in Bed, came by his presence to interrupt my privacies: and as he had a great power over me, he asked me what obliged me to be so lazy, seeing I had not too much time for the giving order for my departure, and having answered him that I had been very much indisposed all the night, but that I found myself something better; I risen presently after, and went to the Palace of Orleans, to try by the Beauty of those gardens, to divert the troubles this budding passion gave me: But instead of finding there the Remedy I sought, after having walked thro' with little application all these fine walks, I was the more confirmed of fixing myself in the service of the Marchioness, and I returned home so pensive, that I found no pleasure but in the agreeable Idea I preserved of her Beauty: Insomuch that two days after I went to make her my first visit, and as our conversation was pretty long, I had time to discover the delicacy of her wit. She said the finest things imaginable upon the point of our acquaintance, and I returned so satisfied with the Marchionesses Civility, and so much charmed with her, that Love had never been better established in a heart. I began from that time to take more care of my person than I had done, I became more pensive than usual, and all that was nor the Marchioness seemed to me so insupportable, that even my friends perceived me to be changed. But the time I had taken to departed being passed as well as my curiosity, I feigned an indisposition, of which I gave notice to my Father, who having with pain consented I should travel, was very glad to hear I was not longer in haste to leave the Kingdom; and as he had a design of buying me a considerable Charge at Court, helet me know it was his will I should stay there. It is easy to imagine the joy this news gave me, as it agreed with my Love; never any thing was more welcome; and having than no other passion than of serving the Marchioness, I ●aw her daily, and lost no occasion of making known to her my passions. All the difficulty was to make her see I loved her; my languishing Eyes, and redoubled sighs made it apparent that I was not insensible: But all this did not satisfy me, and when I went from her I could not bear with any company: And when alone I passed over in my mind, all that I had said, and all that I had done; sometimes I blamed myself for having been too fearful, and than again for having been too bold. And I was ever as ill contented with myself, as I was satisfied with that lovely person. In fine time furnished me with an occasion which I made use of luckily enough. The Marchioness had a friend who was often in our Company, and who having some inclination for me, did all she could to discover her for whom I sighed, and even pressed me so agreably upon that point, that I was put to much trouble to conceal my passion. One day as we went all three of us to walk in the Gardens, the Marchioness and I insensibly fixing languishing looks upon one another, that friend perceiving it, told me with great surprise, Ah! Sir, I know at present what you have concealed from me with so much care, and than held her peace and would say not more. We did all that we could to break her silence, and especially the Marchioness pressed her to tell her the cause of it, but all was in vain: Insomuch that not being willing to stay any longer in the Gardens, we were constrained to return. Thomas the Marchioness had not had the curiosity that is natural to the sex, this Mystery would have given it ●er: Wherhfore making her a visit the day after, she did not fail as soon as she saw me to press me to discover the secret, well imagining I was there for something. As I knew not precisely its cause, I found myself perplexed, I did all that I could to defend myself from telling my thoughts; But as in those sort ●f occasions, the more we excuse ourselves from telling Ladies what they would learn, the more it augments their Curiosity; the Marchioness redoubled her earnestness, and would absolutely know my opinion thereof: Insomuch that that Conjuncture seeming to me very favourable for the discovering to her my passion, I tried two or three times to tell her what I had resolved, but I found in that moment the Power of an amorous respect, and it was with a great deal of fear and Confusion, that with a trembling voice I told her, that her friend had perceived I loved her, and that it had put her into so ill an humou● Yes, Madam, added I, it is impossibl● to love you more, and if you consider what your Charms are able to effect, you would easily judge they cannot but produce extraordinary passions. The Marchioness expecting to learn quite the contrary, was extremely surprised to hear me speak so seriously; she was upon the point of being angry, of banishing me from her presence: But having pressed me to declare my thoughts, she contented herself with telling me, with a tone however that shown her agitation: if I had been lesle curious, it is ●ertain, Sir, you would not have taken the liberty of speaking to me after the manner you have done, and that the respect you own to our Sex would have hindered you: but since I myself have occasioned this fault, I will not punish you as I might otherwise have done; and if you desire we shall see one another ●gain, I pretend it be without passion, and I forbidden you to tell me again you have any for me: These words having something encouraged me, and not being ignorant, that when it is once said We, love, Love repeats 〈◊〉 a thousand times; I turned the thing gallantly, in saying to the Marchioness, that she had obliged me more than she thought in forbidding me to speak of my passion, seeing I ●ould not express it well enough by words, and that it was impossible to explain the sentiments of a heart so much in love as mine. That I would obey her and keep silence; but that I hoped my Eyes, and all my actions would so well supply the defect of my tongue, that at length she would be persuaded that nothing could be added to the respectu●ous and sincere affection I had for her; I had hardly done speaking, when the Marchioness' Companion entered the Chamber: But the Marchioness being ill satisfied with her Curiosity, she was careful not to ask her also the reason of her Melancholy; insomuch that the Conversation falling upon general and indifferent things, it quickly finished, each one retiring. From that time I had some kindof hopes the Marchioness would hear my Vows, and as hopes flatter and ease the sufferings of Lovers, I almost ever interpreted to my advantage all she said to me. But it was not however till after a years assiduity, that that fair Person let herself be vanquished, and that she gave me all the marks of esteem and kindness I could have expected from a Person in whom Virtue was in the supremest Degree. Never was so pure and innocent a passion seen as tha● we had, nor did ever Lovers pas● ●heir time so sweetly as we did du●ing some Months. But these fine lays were eclipsed, and Love made ●e know that if he lends for a time is joys and favours, he pays himself with Usury. The Marchiones●●s merit being known by all per●ons of Judgement, it happened to ●y misfortune that a Lady of great Quality having been desired by the ●●een of Poland, to sand her a ●rench Lady to be Governess of ●er Maids of Honour, she cast her Eyes upon the Marchioness, and so well persuaded her of the importance of that employ, that at length ●●e resolved to accept it. Ambition which is natural to the sex, seemed to her in that moment the strongest passion; she imagined I would with joy subscribe to her absence, and that I even would follow her; and in that opinion she secretly took all the necessary measures for her departure, being resolved I should not know it till the day before. But a ill News is ever learned sooner tha● one would know it, I had noti● given me of the Marchionesses design. Never was a surprise equ● to mine, and as if I had been struck with a thunderbolt, I was a lo●● time  without being ab● to speak one word. At length re● covering myself, I examined all m●passed Conduct, to see if I had do● any thing that might oblige the Ma● chioness to treat me thus, and after having exactly recollected to th● very lest Circumstances, finding myself only guilty of too muc● Love, I accused her a thousan● times of injustice and infidelity and than referring my case to Lov● himself, I made him the Author 〈◊〉 my misfortunes, and my disorder was so great that I did not spa● myself: Insomuch that after havi●● taken a hundred several Resolu●ons for the breaking of this voy age, things even the most extravagant came into my imagination, and all agitated with different passions; I went to the Marchioness to reproach her with her inconstancy: but I had not sooner seen her, than ●hat Love recovering the Empire of ●●y heart, as faithless as she was, I found her with the same Charms as formerly. All my Resolutions vanished, and if the Marchioness perreceiving grief in my face, had not asked me what caused it, I should not have been able to have complained of my misfortune, so true is it that it is impossible when one loves very tenderly, to be able to reproach the beloved Object, Whom we ever excuse through a kind of shame of seeing ourselves deceived, or for fear of displeasing. Whereupon the Marchioness acquainted me with the reasons she had to accept the offers that were made her, and Love made me found them to be the best imaginable, during all the time was with her: Insomuch that th● Marchioness seeing herself free● from this dangerous point, fancye● she should certainly take that vo● age, and was possessed with nothing but the thoughts of it. But as Ambition only had made her resolve th● undertaking it, and that before she had engaged herself, she had neither consulted her Heart no● her Love, they made her know when she the lest thought of it. That they aught to be of the Party and that nothing is well done with out them. Having thus taken al● the measures that were requisite fo● her journey, she quitted Paris, to g● to Haure, where a Ship attended her. Her absence rendered me the mos● unfortunate of all Lovers, causing in me an extreme grief, and in my despair I made Complaints capable of moving a heart of Marble. B●● at length having spent many sighs took Post and went to expect her Haure, with design to use in that ●ace the utmost efforts for the perwading her from that Voyage. The marchioness arriving after five days ●●rny, was much furprized to found 〈◊〉 there in a disguised habit. Her ●ove was renewed in seeing me, and 〈◊〉 felt in her heart a motion of tenderness which made her blame her ●●bition: As I perceived something ●f it, I made use of that good mo●ent; for after having given her a ●pposed Letter, which served me 〈◊〉 a pretence, having obliged her to 〈◊〉 see the Citadel, which is one of 〈◊〉 finest and strongest in Europe, as 〈◊〉 walked upon the Bastions, at 〈◊〉 foot of which the Waves of the 〈◊〉 beaten, I took an Occasion to speak 〈◊〉 her of the infidelity of that Eloquent: and some wrecks of a Vessel 〈◊〉 had been cast away a little be●●●e in the Road, presenting themselves in that moment to our view, it so luckily seconded my Design, that fear and love procured in the mind of the Marchioness the effects had promised myself. She changed the Resolution she had taken of quitting me. We renewed our ancient Protestations, of never parting, and for the better covering this change with a specious pretence the Marchioness feigned to be very ill; and it was resolved that I should not appear till after the Vessel 〈◊〉 put to Sea; Whereupon she 〈◊〉 carried immediately to her Lodging, where, as soon as she came she di●● not fail to go to Bed, and to conplain as may be imagined. The ablest Physician was sent for to her, and I had so well instructed him, that he needed no more to persuade all the world that she was very sick, and that every one believed her life in danger: Insomuch that the Captain of the ship, after having waited fifteen days in vain for her recovery, was constrained to make 〈◊〉 for Poland. Having noting ●●ore to desire, I made known 〈◊〉 the Marchioness that for the ●●king away all suspicion, that 〈◊〉 had contributed to her stay, it ●●as requisite I should return as I ●ame, to which she consented; and 〈◊〉 days after she also arriving at 〈◊〉, she so well persuaded the ●●dy, who had engaged her, the ●ief she had to have fallen sick, and at having been able to take the oyage, that she discovered no affectation, and ever preserved for her ●all her esteem and affection: Both of us well satisfied with one another, we passed very sweetly six months together: But in sine Love having resolved to part us, renewed the Occasion of going into Poland at a time I lest dreamt of it; for the Queen impatiently expecting a Governess, and not seeing her arrive in the Vessel that was to have brought her, fancying her Orders were neglected, addressed herself to another Lady to sand her One, which the Marchioness having notice of, she so employed her interest with the former Lady who had engaged her, that by her means she was again destined for that employ, having a real design of going. All that I could do to persuade her from this fancy was of no effect; and the Marchioness apprehending a second sickness, obliged me not to leave Paris. Wherhfore I was constrained to consent to it, and to content myself with the assurance she gave of never forgetting me. My tears and sighs had no Power, and the time she had demanded to settle her affairs being expired, she went aboard the Vessel which was to carry her, and arrived safely at the Court of Poland, where she was received by their Majesties with all the kindness she could have hoped. Of all the displeasures that Love causes in us, abfence is certainly the most sensible; There are its true several Others, whose stings are very piercing, but when we are far from what we love, nothing certainly lies heavier upon us: Wherhfore it is easy to imagine what my trouble was. As I loved the Marchionels tenderly, I looked upon that separation as a kind of Death; and that Thought made such an impression upon my mind, that in a few days I appeared so changed, that my friends were all surprised at it. I was not longer seen in that gay humour which I had before, and though I endeavoured to conceal my melancholy and recover my mirth, there appeared a certain languishing in all my actions, which made known that my soul was far from me. As much as Paris had been dear to me, I as much abhorred it since the Marchioness had left it, and in the middle of that great City I lived as if I had been in a Wilderness. The remembrance alone of my Mistress possessed all my thoughts, and not being able to live any longer without seeing her, I took the resolution of following her. But such a voyage being very long, I was willing to take such precautions with my Father as that it might not afflict him: I went to see him, and stayed four or five months at his house, during which time having made known to the Marchioness the design I had of going to her, she took measures with the Queen of Poland, and supposing that I was her Relation, she made her Majesty think fit I should make a voyage to her Court. She had even the goodness to declare to her that I might not be useless there, and that she would certainly let her see that she took part in all that concerned her. The Marchioness being thus assured that I should be well received, gave me notice of it by this Letter.  
The Marchioness des Roches, to the Baron de Saint-Cir.  
IT is very difficult to have such Relations as you, my dear Cousin, without passionately desiring to see them, principally in a Country where I cannot put Confidence in many people: Wherhfore if you still persevere in the design of travelling, you will never meet with more pleasure than in Poland, being I shall receive you there with all the joy imaginable, and that the King and Queen have had the goodness to declare they should graciously consider you. As the Court is all French, you will found nothing in it that is savage, except the habits, and I hope when you are well acquainted with it, you will found it as diverting as that of France. But though these Considerations are very powerful, I will however believe, that they are lesle inviting than the desire you have of seeing a Relation who loves you tenderly, and who should esteem herself very happy, if she might once more assure you by word of mouth that she will as long as she lives be entirely Yours  
The Marchioness des Roches.  
As I expected with the usual impatience of passionate Lover's News from the Marchioness, I received this Letter with all the tenderness I was capable of: I kissed it a thousand times, and read it over as often: Insomuch that only thinking of going to see her, I in some measure recovered my briskness; and after having caused my Father to consent to my absence, I made a very magnificent Equipage, and went to Haure with design to go on board there the first: Vessel I should found: But not being willing to surprise the Marchioness, I acquainted her with it in these terms.  
The Baron de Saint-Cir to the Marchioness des Roches.  
YOu never made a more equitable judgement than that of believing, ●y dear Cousin, that you alone could oblige me to go into Poland: Not but ●hat I have an extreme acknowledgement ●f the kindness their Majesties have de●ared they should have for me, and ●hat it might agreably flatter the ambition of a young Gentleman. But the ties of Blood, and a certain I know not what, which I found I have for you more ●han for all the rest of the world, makes much more impression upon my mind: and when I think I shall again see the most lovely relation in the world, and that she herself will be delighted with it, my soul is filled with an unexpressible joy, and I complain of all the ●oments that I employ for the preparing my Equipage, Wherhfore you may judge if I shall neglect to embark in the first Vessel that goes from this Port, my Father having likewise given me leave t● travel; and if the Winds would hea● my vows, I should certainly have th● honour of seeing you suddenly, and 〈◊〉 making appear to you the acknowledgement I have of your Cares, and th● happiness you are willing to procure m●  
The Baron de Saint-Cir●  
After having sent this Letter to the Post, I waited at Haure more than a month for the conveniency of a Vessel, which was come to take in Merchandise for Poland, my impatience may be better imagined than I can express it, and in all my life I never found the days so long I went every moment to the Port to see if the Ship could departed, and when I found the wind fair I was mad we were not to make use of it; But Seamen are a people without Reason, as well as without Love, wherefore I could not oblige them to put to Sea before the time they ●ad projected, what prayers soever 〈◊〉 made them. Being thus constrained to wait, I took the resolution of ●eing a pretty woman, and of the ●●st Quality of the City, I had known her at Paris, and if I be not deceived she had some kind of esteem for me. She received me with all the testimonies of kindness and joy I could have hoped for; and if I had been capable of relishing the divertisments of the season, I should not have been weary with her; but all that lovely person could do, it was impossible for her to see me one day without melancholy. In fine the time being arrived I expected with so much impatience, that Lady would needs accompany me on Board, where after having wished me all manner of happiness, she tenderly embracing me bid me farewel. The Son that had not appeared in more than a week, showed by his return the part he took in my good fortune, and it seemed according to all appearances, that I was to make a happy voyage. But we were hardly twenty Leagues at Sea, than the great agitation of the ship made me so sick, that in two or three days I lost my speech, and could not make myself understood otherwise than by signs. During my sufferings in this manner, there arose on a sudden so furious a tempest, that the seamen not being able to govern their ship, were constrained to tear down the sails, and to abandon it to the mercy of that Element. Death presented itself on all sides, and the most daring apprehended to found there their Grave; insomuch that I had been extremely happy in my disease, if the Master of the ship, who was a man naturally barbarous enough, and of those sort of people who are given to superstition, had not fancied that I was the cause of this change, because he had seen that Lady embrace me upon the Deck when she bid me Adieu. Wherhfore notwithstanding all the resistance of his people he would needs cast me into the Sea, saying that the tempest would certainly cease, and that they should be delivered. In this cruel design assisted with some of his seamen, he took me and carried me upon the Deck, and they had already half put me into the Sea, when that a Religious touched with Compassion, courageously opposed his Barbarousness, and held me by a foot; But as the Master persevered to drown me, though he remonstrated to him, that being a person of Quality my death might be revenged and cost him his head. At length seeing that his reasons were not heard, and wisely considering that to oppose was the means of rendering his Charity useless, he found this expedient, that if I did not speak the next day, and that I were still sick, he consented they should cast me into the Sea, to which the Master agreed and I was left upon the Deck, without my servants daring to take care of me. Not having lost my hearing, and understanding very well all that was said, it is easy to imagine with what a fright I was seized. The certain death I saw presented itself to my imagination with all the horrors which accompany it, and I thought of nothing but preparing myself for it, when that Heaven made a miracle in my savour, for the air clearing up about three a clock in the morning, there fell a little shower, which having awaked me out of the trance I was, I crept as well as I could to some tackling, and having sucked with my tongue the water which dropped down, it so well moistened my throat, that it took away the sharpness which hindered me from speaking: Insomuch that with the day light I recovered my speech, and the Sea being also become calm, the Master surprised with these alterations, not only left of persevering in the base design he had; But having told him I went to the Court of Poland by the King's Order, (which put him in a terrible fright being his Subject) He took so much care of me, that some days after I recovered my perfect health, and had so absolute a power over the Ship, that I disposed of it as if it had been mine. Wherhfore we thought of nothing but of making use of the fair wind we had, when that being ready to enter the Baltique sea, having taken his Glass upon the notice they saw a sail, he discovered that that ship endeavoured to get the wind of him, and that it was an English Man of War; as he apprehended with reason he should be insulted, he did all he could to avoid their coming up to him, but after having used all his efforts one whole day to prevent being taken, the man of war in the evening coming within Canon-shot, made three shots upon our Vessel, which made the Master resolve to cast Anchor to expect him. I did what I could to oblige those who traveled with me, to put ourselves in a posture of defence, but notwithstanding my remonstrances and the desire I had of fight we were taken by those Pirates, who entering our ship, so terrified them that were in it, that two of the six Hospital Maids that the Queen of Poland caused to come from France to establish them in her Kingdom, cast themselves into the Sea where they were drowned; they stripped all the others and took from them what they had of value, and discovering by my  that I was no common person, and that they might have a good ransom from me, they made me only lay down my Arms, and treating me with more Civility than I could have hoped, we were carried to London; Cromwell the Usurper of the Kingdom reigned there at that time under the name of Protector. The Master of the ship remonstrated to him that he had been in France by order of the King of Poland, and that all that was taken belonged to him, he shown his Passports and demanded his liberty; but it would not be granted him, and we were constrained to wait above a month, for news from the Court of Poland. The King being surprised to hear what had happened to us, sent an express to the Protector, to whom having confirmed what the Master had advanced, the Protector ordered that all should be restored that had been taken from us, which was punctually executed, insomuch that putting again to Sea after incredible fatigues, we arrived at length at Danzick, from whence thinking to have gone to Warsaw, I was much surprised when they told me that the sickness had driven the Courtaway, which was wand'ring from City to City, for the avoiding that Cruel disease which depopulated all the Kingdom. But having learned that it stopped at Lublin where it would stay sometime; I sent one of my servants to the Marchioness to give her notice of my arrival, and to know where I might see her. But when he arrived at Lublin, the King was already gone from thence for the Duchy of Lithuania; He joined the Court at Vilna, and delivered my Letter to the Marchioness, who having as much impatience to see me, as I had of making known to her, that she alone still made all my happiness, that nothing might hinder me from making all the expedition possible, she sent me back my man with one of hers, who knew the language and the ways. In effect they had not sooner delivered to me the Letter the Marchioness wrote to me, than that I begun my journey for Vilna. My impatience made me make a thousand useless vows, and I cannot express to you the greatness of my trouble: But in fine I arrived at the place where I desired to be with so much passion. The Marchioness whose absence had not at all diminished her affections received me with much joy, and as she found in me also the same sentiments I had ever had for her, Our first interview produced the usual effect of extreme passions. We were a long time without being able to speak; and after having acquainted one another with what had happened to us since our parting, I had the pleasure of receiving from her in that occasion, all the most obliging marks of esteem and kindness that I could have expected. Two days after the Marchioness having presented me to their Majesties, who believed me her near Relation, I was received by them with so much goodness, that I shall preserve the memory of it as long as I live. All the Court did me likewise more honour and civility than I could have expected; and especially you, my Lord, treated me after so obliging a manner, that being the man of the world, the fullest of acknowledgement, I vow to you that from that day, I have ever had a very great passion of serving you, and of being of the number of your friends. Ragieski who had very peaceably listened to the Baron, having interrupted him to answer his Civility, and to make him new Protestations of friendship, he continued his discourse thus. As I had no other ambition than that of loving the Marchioness and of being beloved, the liberty I had of seeing and speaking every time I could wish it with Civility, rendered me ●e most happy of all Lovers. The ●ing gave me Employs, as you ●ow, wherein I have endeavour●● to answer the good opinion he 〈◊〉 of all those of our Nation. The marchioness continued to love me, ●ove her with the same tenderness as I did the first day; and it is that ●●ich makes me something melancholy, notwithstanding the good ●ear; and the other pleasures I receive in your House. This is, ●y Lord, all of consideration that ●ean acquaint you with; and as ●ou are the only One I have entrusted with my secret, I hope it will re●●in so with you; since you see it 〈◊〉 of considerable consequence, and ●hat you take part in all that concerns me. The Baron having left of speaking, Ragieski neglected nothing ●hat might confirm him in the good opinion he had of him. And after having applauded his Constancy and his Choice; Supper time approaching, they went to the Vice-Chancellor's Lady's apartment, whose Letter the King received with so tender and passionate transports, that after having read it several times, it seemed as if he could never part from it; he was not longer seen in that gloomy humour he was in before. All people were surprised at it; and tasting already by advance the pleasure that was promised him, his joy was read in his face, waiting however with impatience for the day of Rendezvouz. He gave orders for hunting exactly half way from the Vice-Chancellor's house, and as the days were something short, he departed in the morning, and in the heat of the Chase, stealing from the crowd of Courtiers, he was not long before he came to the place, where the Vicechancellors Lady as impatient as himself, expected him, the King being only followed by one Officer in whom he put great confidence. It was a Country house in the middle of the Forest, and far enough from the high ways. Being the dwelling place of a Nobleman meanly rich, who was not at all surprised to see hunters there. But as a pretence was requisite for staying, the Vice-Chancellor's Lady being only followed by her faithful Governess and the Baron's Gentleman of the horse who knew the ways, had had the precaution to say at her arrival, that she had fallen from her horse and was something hurt. The Nobleman had left his house to her that she might take rest, and went to see his labourer's work. Thus the King finding no obstacle to his contentment, had so agreeable an entertainment with the Vice-Chancellor's Lady, that nothing could be added to the pleasure they had together: They recompensed themselves with Usury for the time they had lost; and while that all those that had followed Casimer to the chase, were in extreme pain of finding him, as well as Ragieski was on his part for his Lady, whom he believed lost, because she was not at the death of the Stag. They passed their time sweetly together. They were two hours in that manner, and in that time a great many things are said when we are as much in love as they were. But the Governess fearing a surprise, and thinking the time long, came and told them they aught to think of retreating: Insomuch that they must part, but it was not without extreme pain they did so, and that each of them went their way. The Lady was not long before she joined her Company who were in search of her; she told them she had lost herself in the wood, they easily believed her, and as she was very well satisfied, and that they were so likewise with the good success of their hunting; they all returned with much joy to Ragieski's Castle. The rest of the day passed very agreably; the Vice-Chancellor's Lady acquainted the Baron in few words with the success of the Rendezvouz. Casimer not being obliged to give an account of his actions, had an overplus of pleasure to see at his arrival at Warsaw, how earnest they were to know what had been become of him: and the Baron returning the day after to Court, after having been well regaled at Ragieski's house, who was charmed with his Wit and his other Qualities: They would have all had reason to have been well contented, if the Marchioness, knowing nothing of what passed, had not taken ombrage of the Baron's visit: But as she was naturally jealous, and that the Vice-Chancellor's Lady was pretty and young, she could not hold from reproaching him with the long stay he had made in her house, and making likewise reflection of his earnestness to speak to her when she was at Court, there needed nothing more to persuade her of his being in love with her: Insomuch that in the first transport of her jealousy, she spoke such sharp and vexatious things to the Baron, that he seemed to be the most treacherous of all men. I do not at all wonder, said she to him in anger, that for some months you have not had that application for me that caused all my joy, my kindness too well assured you of my heart, that you should still make it your delight and your pleasure, you love— There she could not proceed, nor detain her tears; but a moment after recovering her speech, yes you are unfaithful; and do not think I am ignorant you have been at Ragieski's to give your new Mistress a heart that belongs to me, and of whom I shall revenge myself. The Baron being extremely astonished at these threaten did all that he could to undeceive the Marchioness of the error she was in; he cast himself at her knees, which he very tenderly embraced, he sighed, he wept, he swore a thousand times that he still loved her with the same sidelity, and that his passion should be eternal. But though he told the truth, all this did not cure the fair displeased One; the Vice-Chancellor's Lady made her afraid; and though he was persuaded it was dangerous for him to discover the King's secret, he chose rather to risk all events, than to see her any longer displeased with him. True Lovers cannot conceal any thing from their Mistresses, he knew she only treated him ill because she would not loose him; wherefore he acquainted her with what we have said of the King's Amours with the Vice-Chancellor's Lady; this settled her mind, and the Baron and the Marchioness were so well reconciled, that he did not apprehended she would impart to other people the secret he trusted her with.  
While that all this passed in this manner, his affairs of War were not in so good a posture. The Diet assembled at Warsaw; where the Vicechancellor was obliged to be and to bring his wife, who could stay not longer in the Country by reason of the season. The Nobles appeared there alarmed, and in strange divisions: The ecclesiastics complained highly that their Privileges were violated, and that the King had consented in favour of the Cosaques to the rapture of the Union made between the Roman and Greek Church, and that every one might live according to his belief: and both the one and the other in stead of Uniting to hinder the ruin of the Republic, consumed the time in particular disputes, and that great Assembly was hardly able to take the necessary Resolutions for the approaching Campagne. It would be a kind of Miracle if a ●ing could long entertain an amorous intrigue without discovery. King's are so used to be absolute in their Wills, that they cannot always constrain themselves. Casimer took so much pleasure in entertaining the Vice-Chancellor's Lady every time she came to the Palace, that though he saw her else where more conveniently, he could not hold from speaking to her. It was perceived, it was talked of, she was pretty; all the world knew that Love was the King's ruling passion, every one likewise believed that the Vice-Chancellor's Lady possessed his favours; Ragieski took notice of it as well as the others, but the honour Casimer did him, not being for his convenience, he made known something of it to his wife who informed the King thereof. They were for sometime more reserved, which augmented his cares and jealousy, and as the Lady was not cautious enough in concealing her passion, in the end her love betrayed her. Ragieski unluckily found one day her little Cabinet open, she kept the King's Letters in it, as glorious marks of his defeat and of the power of her eyes, he took them and was in despair to see what he was very unwilling to have found. In the first transport of his fury, he more than once deliberated to sacrifice her to his Dispair; but as unfaithful as she appeared to him, he loved her too well to loose her; he contented himself with outraging her by terrible words, and to shut her up in a Chamber of which he took the key: This was not yet enough or a man so irritated as Ragieski, he knew the Queen could not patiently suffer the amorous thefts of Casimer, he went to her immediately, and delivered into her hands the Letters he had found: The Queen seemed not lesle outraged than himself, and as she had more than one reason, that obliged her to wish Casimer might not be won from her, she promised Ragieski to hinder the continuance of their dishonour: She was a Woman of her word, neither did she fail to show her Resentment to the King, and he so impatiently suffered the Queen's Reproaches, that it did but augment his passion for the Vice-Chancellor's Lady, and Ragieski well knowing to what dangers one is exposed, when in disgrace with his Prince, resolved to seek his safety in his retreat; Wherhfore he returned to his house, whither he carried his wife, believing that time which allays the greatest ills, would appease the King's anger, and extinguish his flames. However it happened quite contrary, for the King who found in the airy Conversation of the Vice-Chancellor's Lady, Charms which eased his mind of those troublesome fatigues from which Monarches are not more exempted than other men, and who still hoped for greater favours, finding himself on a sudden deprived of the pleasures she gave him, sent an Order to Ragieski to return to Court to tender his Majesty the service he was obliged to by his Charge. All Courts are full of such people as insult over the unfortunate, and that to get by their disgrace, or to revenge themselves, ever found out concealed Crimes. In a short time Ragieski was accused of caballing against the interests of the State, and was convicted of some secret Intelligences with the Enemies of the Crown: Insomuch that the Senators and Nuncios of the Kingdom deposed him from his Charge, banished him for ever, and confiscated his goods: All the efforts of the Archbishop 〈◊〉 Gnesne Primate of the Kingdom, could not prevent this Thunderbolt, and the unfortunate Ragieski ●as constrained to go seek refuge 〈◊〉 foreign Country's. But as he had many considerable Relations, and ●hat he was a man of wit, he so well knew how to discover to the Swedes ●he weakness of the Republic, that ●n the end he rendered his vengeance ●●tal to Casimer, as we shall quick●● see. Thus the King having no more obstacle in his love, and the Queen not being able to hinder ●s being entirely the Vice-Chan●ellor's Ladies; he caused her to ●ome to Court under pretence of ●ringing up there an Only Daughter she had had by Ragieski, and ●aving given her all the confiscated ●ands and goods of her Husband, he continued the seeing and loving her with yet more tenderness and passion than he had done before. He triumphed over the Queen and Ragieski for some months, not keeping any measures for the concealing the Love he had for the Vice-Chancellor's wife, whom he publicly saw as often as he pleased. Some of Ragieski's Relations begun to murmur very highly, and the Vicechancellor who was retired to Stockholm to the Queen of Sweden, so well inflamed them by the correspondences he held with them, that having made them comprehend that the honour of all the Nobility was branded in his person. As the Nation is naturally jealous as well as haughty, at the length all the Nobles so publicly complained of Casimer's proceedure, that though nothing was Criminal that had passed between him and the Vice-Chancellor's Lady, he was constrained to yield to the reasons of State and to abandon her. To express here the greatness of his and the Lady's grief, is what cannot be done by words. Thomas a King and highly sensible of the injury that was done him, he was forced however to suffer it, and to stifle his love and his anger: Thomas Ragieski's aught to have been lessened by this kind of victory which he gained at his turn, and that he aught to have spared his Country; yet the particular hatred he had conceived against the King overcoming all other considerations, he made use of this way for the fully satisfying his Revenge. All the world knows that Charles of Sudermannia being become King of Sweden by the Revolt of the Bishops and the people, who had embraced the Doctrine of Doctor Disteben, he maintained himself there against his Nephew Sigismond Father of Casimer, who had been elected King of Poland, and to whom the Crown of Sweden belonged by right of Inheritance. Gustavus Adolphus that famous Conqueror likewise maintaining himself therein, notwithstanding all the efforts of Vladislaus; after several bloody Wars, they made a Truce, during which they were to labour for a good Peace. But these two Kings being dead, Casimer renewed this Truce with Christina, the only Daughter of Gustavus; who having resigned the Crown in favour of Charles her Cousin German; Casimer who pretended that this abdication could not be made to his Prejudice; the Crown of Sweden Legitimately belonging to him, sent a Gentleman to the States of Sweden assembled for the Coronation of Charles, that he might form an opposition on his part: But this opposition not being considered, and Charles touched to the quick with this proceedure: Ragieski seeing the Occasion favourable for the pushing on his resentment, employed all the talents of his wit for the animating Charles to resent the affront that Casimer had newly done him, and adding to that the great Correspondencies he entertained with the principal Lords of the Kingdom, who could not longer suffer his Government, he gave him so certain hopes that he might be elected in his place, that at length Charles resolved to break the Truce, and to make War upon Poland. In the mean time there were Ambassadors at Lubec who laboured for the Peace; Casimer seeing the Nobility alienated, his Authority lessened, a thousand Contradictions in the Assemblies, Lithuania in the power of the Moscovites, and the Cosaques revolted; all this obliged him to desire it, and to yield up several points which he would not have abandoned in another juncture. But Charles animated by Ragieski changed Policy in changing Design. His Ministers sought out new difficulties, and though Casimer had renounced in favour of Charles all the pretensions he had upon the Kingdom of Sweden, and had even consented the three Crowns he bore in his arms should be taken away, which was the only subject that had obliged Sigismond and Vladistaus to make War. The Swedes passed to other demands, that under pretence of still labouring on the Peace, they might make their preparations, fool the King of Poland, and dispossess him without his being able to defend himself. Charles caused likewise to be published his pretensions upon the Duchy of Cleves and Juliers, for the better concealing his Designs. And as the truce aught to have lasted six years longer, Casimer could not imagine that Charles would break it, and therefore took no precautions. He thought at that time of curing the Melancholy the forced retreat of the Vice-Chan●ellor's Lady had cast him into, his ●eart could not live without loving, 〈◊〉 was his natural inclination: he had formerly cast his Eyes upon one of the Queen's Maids of Honour, He daily saw her without going out of the Palace: she was no Polander, she was younger than the Vice-Chancellor's wife, and was not lesle fair. Casimer fancied he could not do better than to love her, and endeavour the being beloved: The greatest obstacle he found in it proceeded from the great severity with which the Marchioness lived with her Maids of Honour, observing the lest of their actions. That Lady being affectionately beloved by the Queen, appeared likewise so fixed in her interests, that the King was not a little perplexed. But the faithful Baron was a great help to him, for having discovered to him his new passion, as he was much in the Marchionesses favour, he promised him to employ the credit he had with her, for the obliging her to furnish the King with the means of seeing his Mistress in secret. The Baron interessed himself too much in all that might please Casimer, to omit any thing for the engaging the Marchioness to serve him. He knew her Delicacy, and was not ignorant that the proposition he was to make her, would furiously displease her; But he resolved to suffer all for the contenting his Master. She for whom the King sighed was called Mademoiselle de Schanfeild, she was a Germane, and but eighteen years old; Her shape was fine, and of those that may be called advantageous, her face oval, her Eyes blue, well turned, and in which there was seen a certain languishing mixed with vivacity, vacity, so great a proportion in all 〈◊〉 person, that one more beautiful could hardly be found. But with 〈◊〉 these advantages she had so quick 〈◊〉 it and so just a discernment, that 〈◊〉 is not to be wondered if Casimer ●nd in her wherewith to comfort in for the loss he had. As the noise 〈◊〉 his first passion had ruined 〈◊〉 and that the Queen continually ●atched the lest of his actions; ●s love disguised itself a long time ●●der the name of good will; and 〈◊〉 Eyes alone made known to Made●●eiselle de Schanfield, that he had in is heart something more for her ●an that general esteem One has ●or all fair Persons. The King lost ●o occasion of speaking to her, and ●hen he did it, it was in so obliging ●erms, that it might be easirly imagined his was not indifferent. The Marchioness perceived it, which made her the more strictly observe the Conduct of Mademoisellede Schanfield; she also spoke of it one day to the Baron, and declared to him that this passion of the King extremely perplexed her. The Baron made use of the occasion to qu●● himself of what he had promised Casimer, and looking upon the Marchioness with a passionate air. I am so used, Madam, said he to her, to ask you favours, and to receive: marks of your goodness, that I know not if you will have tha● of disengaging me from the word I have given to the King, that you shall not traverse the passion h● has for Mademoiselle de Scanfield I very well know that what 〈◊〉 demand of you is extraordinary that it is in a manner affronting you to pretend it. But likewise Madam, added he, the more violence you shall use upon yourself the more shall I be indebted to you● There are Kings like Torrents who destroy all that opposes their passage: You know what it cost Pagieski, and also the little satisfaction the Queen had in showing ●er jealousy. The King's love is so violent that it cannot suffer any engmentation; He is liberal and ●akes care of raising me, but this 〈◊〉 not what most engages me; He honour's me with his Confidence; he discovers to me the most secret, thoughts of his heart. In fine, Madam, I judge of the pleasune you shall do him by that I should receive, if the like service was ●endred me in regard of you. The Marchioness who had harkened to all this discourse with much attention, was very much perplexed now to answer it; she clearly saw that all the Baron told her merited reflection to be made upon it. But what she owed the Queen and what she owed herself at that time overcame all these considerations, and she was so displeased with the Baron, that he was constrained to come to submissions for the appeasing her exasperated mind. However he did not despair of bringing her to the point he desired; and having acquainted the King with what he had done, this difficulty ●●d but augment his ardour, insomuch that he was upon the point of declaring himself openly. In that thought the amorous Prince made a thousand different Projects, but coming to consider the impression that this would make upon the Queen's Spirit, who would use all manner of means for the ruining his hopes; he conjured the Baron to make a second effort with the Marchioness, for the conquering her scruples, for the succeeding in it; the Baron redoubled his cares and applications, he never quitted the Marchioness; and as nothing is impossible to Love when it concerns itself, the Baron's tenderness so touched the Marchioness, that at length she resolved to be of ●he intelligence. Casimer had an ●●expressible joy; he made magniscent presents to the Marchioness, ●nd promising himself the enjoyment of thousands of pleasures, ●e means was to be sought for the ●aking him see his Mistress with ●●fety. The Marchionesses apartment was judged the most conve●ent and the lest suspected; but ●he difficulty was to come secretly ●ere. The other maids of Honour's Chambers were to be passed 〈◊〉, and to win two Guards who ●er kept sentinel in the Gallery, which appeared an invincible ob●acle, because these Guards were ●aily changed: Wherhfore they ●hose the most dangerous means ●ut likewise the most certain, which ●as to pass thro' a window which ●oked into the Court, thro' which ●he Baron took the King with a Ladder into the Marchionesses Chamber: there is nothing to which we expose not ourselves when we are in Love. Casimer approved this expedient, though dangerous for his person; and all being disposed in that manner, the Marchioness begun to caress Mademoiselle de Schanfield more than usual, she made her the Confident of her secrets, that she might have part in hers, and rallying her agreeably upon the Complaisancies the King had for her; in a little time she won her good Opinion, and discovered to her all he was resolved to do for the giving her marks of his Love. As Mademoiselle de Schanfield was haughty, she received very coldly the proposition the Marchioness made her, which rendered her very uneasy; but in fine the pleasure of being beloved by a King, whose tenderness was known, too agreeably flattered her imagination to despise the Conquest. She consented to the Rendezvouz the Marchioness had appointed her; and the hour appointed being come, the Baron ●●st out a Ladder to the King with which he mounted into her apartment. There it was that this Prince found that Love treats Kings as other men; all his greatness quitted him as well as his Courage. Made●oiselle de Schanfield appeared to him the most formidable person in the world, though she was there more soft, yet he durst hardly offer her his heart. Neither is there any thing which more perplexes a Lover than to say he loves: all his actions publish his Love, and he very well contented; but when words are to be found to explain them, a certain Confusion mingled with fear so seizes on all his Spirits, that he cannot discover what he even dies thoroughly to persuade. Wherhfore the disorder the King was in was not useless to him; and though he had told Mademoiselle de Schanfield all he had resolved to say to her, perhaps it would not have made the same impression upon her mind as his silence and his sighs. It is the usual effect of great passions to be ever mute, Nothing touches more a fair person than to see greatness humbled at her feet, a King suppliant to Charms that are very powerful; and in truth it was all these considerations that made Mademoiselle de Schanfield loose a part of her natural haughtiness in that Occasion; she felt in her heart unusual motions, and if her bashfulness hindered her from declaring to the King that his passion did not displease her; it is certain that she conceived a great esteem for him, and that she secretly interessed herself. But the glory of conquering a young heart which had never been touched being joined to his Love, it may be ●aid that that uncertainty was not without delight; One loves naturally to surmount all that makes resistance, and the hope there is of vanquishing and recompensing ourselves, causes sometimes more joy ●han favours would do. But all the ●●ings hopes had like to have been ruined by an accident which put ●●s person in extreme danger. There ●as ever been observed at the Court ●f Poland the Custom of setting too Guards before the apartment ●f the maids of Honour, that they ●ay know what passes there. One ●ay that the Baron de Saint Cir ●ould not go to the Marchionesses apartment, by reason of an indisposition which obliged him to keep ●is bed; the King not being able ●o pass the window as he used to do, would needs go thro' the maids of Honour's Gallery: But after having passed the first Sentinel without being perceived, because it was late and that, the Soldier was without doubt asleep; when he was upon the point of entering the Gallery, the other Soldier stopped him by a who goes there? to which the King not thinking fit to answer, still continuing his way, the Soldier believing that it was perhaps 〈◊〉 Thief, who would make use of the darkness of the night, called his Companion and both together seized the King with much violence; he did all he could to get out of their hands, to the end he might not be known: But it was in vain, and the noise they made having awaked most part of those who were in the neighbouring apartments who came to help the Sentinels; the King whom they would have killed was constrained to make himself known. Never were people so surprised as those Guards were; their boldness turned into fear, and they would have fled to avoid the punishment they believed to have merited, when the King commanded them to stay, and to tell those who came to know what passed, that having quarrelled with one another they had caused the noise that had been heard. As they did not expect to be quit for so small a thing, they willingly obeyed, and the King covering his face, and pressing to know the occasion of the noise, for the better concealing himself, retired to his apartment. The Marchioness and Mademoiselle de Schanfield not seeing the King come, imagined some ill might have happened to him, which made them very uneasy, especially Mademoiselle de Schanfield, beginning to have an inclianation for him, appeared very much concerned. He for his part was no lesle out of humour, whether for not having seen his Mistress, or because he feared that adventure coming to be discovered, it might break all his measures; Insomuch that he could not sleep, and kept his bed the following day, loaded with ill humour and vexation. The Baron being recovered he went to see the King, who told him what had happened, and that he had only received some blows of their fists. He was willing to make a Gallantry of it to Mademoiselle de Schanfield and writ her this Letter.  
IF it be as difficult to engage your heart, as it is uneasy to surprise the vigilance of your Guards, without doubt, Mademoiselle, you will quickly tender me the most unfortunate Prince of the world, as you have made me the most amorous. I was stopped yesterday evening notwithstanding all my precautions, I was treated as a Thief, all the Neighbourhood was alarmed, and I had like to have lost my life: However, I do not complain, and it is only to put you out of pain that I give you this notice; for it is so pleasant to suffer for what One loves, that I esteem myself very happy to have been in danger: But if after this, Mademoiselle, you still doubt of the greatness of my passion, and if you persevere any longer in that coldness which makes me despair; when I see you it will be only to dye at your feet of Grief and of Love.  
CASIMER.  
The King having given this Letter to the Baron, he went immediately to the Marchionesses, where finding Mademoiselle de Schanfield, he acquainted them with the forementioned Circumstances, and gave Mademoiselle de Schanfield the King's Letter, it being the first he had writ to her she blushed, appeared much amazed, and it was with a great deal of fear she opened it. But the Baron pressing her to give an Answer she was in great perplexity: yet after several irresolutions; whether out of respect or inclination, she wrote this Letter to the King.  
Tho' the acknowledgement I aught to have of all the favours you have done me, should not oblige me, Great Prince, to take part in all that concerns you; your life is too dear and too precious to remain insensible when One learns it has been in danger: Wherhfore I am as much moved as One can be at the accident that happened to you last Night, and as I am the cause of it, I cannot tell you precisely the impression it makes upon my heart: But I can assure you that it gins to fear you, and that it will suddenly also want Guards, if you continued thus to attaque it.  
Mademoiselle de Schanfield having given this Letter to the Baron, he went immediately to carry it the King who was at the Queen's apartment. But though he was used to stay longer there, his impatience made him go out as soon as he perceived the Baron; and hi● heart being between fear and hopes, he opened his Mistress' Letter with much precipitation; though it was not very kind, he felt so extraordinary a joy that he could not hold from showing it in the lest of his actions. In effect it is certain that of all the pleasures we found in Love, the most sensible is that which gives the first glimpse of being beloved; for though those which follow are usually more solid, it may be said however they are not so agreeable, and that they are lesle moving to a Lover. The same evening the King had a very tender Conversation with Mademoiselle de Schanfield, who being something bolder, said to him a thousand things which made him found her more lovely than he had done before: insomuch that he returned the most satisfied of all men. But if Love was favourable to him, his joy was quickly changed into trouble. The King of Sweden did not sleep, and Ragieski had given him too fair hopes for to neglect them. Wherhfore he broke the Truce which was to have lasted six years longer, as we have said, and turned all his Designs to the Conquest of Poland. Casimer in his first furprize offered Peace to the Cosaques with a general Pardon, and the Confirmation of their ancient Privileges, and likewise the liberty to brew Beer, make Metheglin, and burn Brandy. But he could not reduce those Rebels to their Devoir; and at that time Prince Charles, Alexander, Bishop of Nuis and of Plosko, his only Brother being dead, few Monarches have been afflicted like him. This was not yet enough for the shaking his of his great Courage, Prince James Rodrivil, One of his Generals, took the part of Charles King of Sweden, after having failed in his duty at th●●●ege of Mohilon, and for the completing his misfortune, the Tartars ●oyned to Casimer's Troops, having ●eaten Chilmilenski before Husman, killed fourteen thousand men, taken two and twenty Pieces of Canon, as many Colours, and Arms for six thousand Soldiers; they returned into their Country after having set Chilmilenski at liberty, whom they had also taken Prisoner. He sent the Lords de Chilmilenski and de Norviscovite for the States of Lithuania in Embassy to Stockholm, who offered to Charles all he could desire for the making a good Peace with him: But having answered them that he was resolved to pass the Sea: Two days after Charles departed with an Army of fourteen thousand men, and the greatest Lords of his Kingdom. General Wittimberg commanded another Army of sixteen thousand men, and Count Magnus ●e la Garde expected also in Liseland the Orders of Charles with a third Army of fourteen thousand men. All these Forces joined to those of the elector of Brandenburg, which were no jess considerable, cast a terror and fright thro' all Poland. Casimer demanded Succours of the Emperor against the Moscovites, and en deavoured to reunite the Nobemen for the saving the Republck: But Ragieski who was with Charles, had so alienated them from their duties, that the Pospolite Russeniques would have had another Chief than the King, which caused great distrusts. The ecclesiastics also offered to bring twelve thousand men on foot upon condition that Christopher Peziemski might command them. Informuch that all being reduced to this State, Count Magnus laid sieg to Dunembourg, which the vigorous resistance of the Governor had newly caused the Moscovites to quit, and having taken it in few days, it was found that the same Governor had been corrupted, and that he was of intelligence with the Swedes. General Wittenberg was not lesle successful in upper Poland; for though the four Vaivods were encamped with fifteen thousand men near the River Notterlach; they basely abandoned Casimer's side, without making any defence, and took the Protection of the King of Sweden, upon this Condition amongst several others; that if they took ' Arms again for Casimer, their goods should be confiscated at the King's pleasure. Some short time after this Conquest, which gave to the Swedes more than forty Leagues of ground without losing one man: Charles came and joined Wittenberg near Pozen with twenty thousand men; but in stead of observing the Conditions that Wittenberg had granted, all manner of violences were committed, and a Bishop had his throat cut for the having his money. Casimer being abandoned by the greatest part of his Subjects, and Charles become Master of great Poland, he marched with all his Troops directly to Warsaw for the besieging it: He ruined all the Cities in his passage which made the lest resistance, and being at Colo, Pesiemski came to him in Quality of Casimer's Ambassador for to demand Peace of him: But Charles having made answer that he was too near his Cousin not to see him, he dismissed him, and told him smiling that he hoped to visit him very shortly. Casimer having no more than fourteen thousand men, went to Warsaw, wherein he put a good Garrison, and from thence followed the Queen who was upon the way to Cracow. But as all these misfortunes did not lessen the kindness he had for Mademoiselle de Schanfield, and that on the contrary absence seemed to have augmented his flames, he dispatched the Baron towards the Queen, under pretence of informing her of what passed, and encharged him with this Letter for his Mistress.  
DO you remember, Mademoiselle, the trouble I was in to quit you, and the grief that appeared in my face, when I was as forced from myself to go appose the violences of my Enemies, Alas! since that fatal day, my good fortune has seemed to abandon me, and by the degrees I removed from you, my disgraces have increased as well as my Love: Yes, Mademoiselle, I still love you more than my life, and with what ill success soever fate does influence my Arms, I shall have constancy enough not to complain, provided you do not banish me out of your memory: But if I was so unhappy as to be forced from thence, I should certainly be distracted, and dye for grief: Wherhfore if you will preserve a Prince who adores you, let me know what share I have in your heart, and I hope that if that heart gins to yield to the most faithful passion that ever was, my Enemies will not be able to resist me.  
Ma●●omoiselle de Schanfield being made sensible by the King's misfortunes, was extremely touched to learn all that the infidelity of his Subjects made him suffer. And no longer doubting but that he loved her, since he gave her marks of it in the greatest fatigues of War, would not longer conceal the tender sentiments of her heart. And the Queen having given her dispatches to the Baron, Mademoiselle de Schanfield made the King this Answer.  
IF the lustre of your Crown had engaged me to love you, you would have reason to apprehended, Great Prince, that the ill success of your Arms had done you some ill Office in my heart. But as the beautiful Qualities of your mind had only acquired it you, you aught not to fear the being forced from it by so shameful a way. May your Enemies, Sir, but preserve your person, and I abandon to them both the State and all the world besides: But, Alas! the dangers I am informed you are ever exposed to, give me troubles and alarms, and I shall not be at ease as long as you are absent. Ah! if you love me as much as you would persuade me, preserve yourself Sir I conjure you; and provided I may see you suddenly I have nothing more to desire.  
While things stood thus between Casimer and his Mistress, the Baron was not so well satisfied with the Marchioness, for having found her in a certain coldness, that made him suspect some body had made use of his absence, and pressing her to acquaint him with the cause of her change, instead of clearing his doubts as formerly, she was so vexed he should accuse her of inconstancy, that the Baron could not hold from saying to her all that jealousy could inspire the most amorous man with, and would have thus returned to the Army, if Mademoiselle de Schenfield, perceiving their misintelligence had not reconciled them. But as the Baron had not all the reason on his side, and that the Marchioness still loved him with the same constancy; he asked her pardon for his transports, and returned to the King, who expected him with an extreme impatience. As Wittenberg pursued Casimer, Charles took Warsaw without much pain, and than having rejoined the General, he marched towards Cracow. He was n●● med in his way that Casimer waited for him with an Army of fourteenthousand men, he went to seek him, he found him, and the Polanders fled and saved themselves in the Woods. Insomuch that Charles laid sieg to Cracow which was valiantly defended: But after several assaults, having no hopes of succours, the Garrison capitulated and yielded at the end of five Weeks. During this sieg, Casimer was upon the River of Buck, where the Baron not having been able to join him sooner, gave him Mademoiselle de Schanfield's Letter: he received it with all the testimonies of joy he was than capable of, and as he found in it all he could desire, he hoped by the good success of his Love, to vanquish also his Enemies. But having notice that Charles was become Master of the capital City of the Kingdom and of other the most considerable Places, would likewise endeavour to seize his Person, he sent a Courier to the Queen that she might come to him with the Troops she had for her Guard, which having happily performed, Casimer resolved to retire into Silesia in the Duchy of Eopol, which belonged to him. But as he passed thro' the Frontiers of Hungary, a Palatine obliged him to stop, and threatened to charge him if he did not retire out of the States of the Emperor. As necessity gives expedients which One would not make use of at another time: The King not being able to obtain the passage by force, had recourse to address. He gave an Order in writing to Morstain to go to the Emperor's Court, to offer him his Crown, and Morstain having shown his Order to the Palatine, without further examining the thing, he escorted the King as far as Eopol, where he still continued to love and see Mademoiselle de Schanfield. Charles having learned the retreat of Casimer, and General Potoski having been defeated near Cominice by Chilmilenski General of the Cosaques, he made use of those favourable conjunctures for the continuing his Progresses with safety. He drew Chilmilenski on his side, as likewise Charles, Alexander, Conitspolskin, who commanded the Quartains. And as victory acquires friends, Ragoski Prince of Transilvania, sent to him also Ambassadors for their making an Alliance together. The Principal chiefs of the Nobility of little Poland took also Charles his Protection; and all but the great Treasurer of the Kingdom, the Lords, Charneski, Preziemski, and Volf abandoned Casimer. But while every One submitted to Charles, and that he caused the Diet to be assembled at Warsaw, the Elector of Brandenburg endeavoured to assure himself of Prussia by the means of Negotiation. But the Dantrichers having discovered his artifices, remained faithful to Casimer, and he referred the declaring himself to a more proper season. The Moscovites on their side took Lublin where they committed unheard of cruelties. The Count of Steembock assisted by Ragieski, presented himself before Torn, and the Burghers animated with the remonstrances of this last, and with the fair promises they made them, rendered without any resistance. Charles made his entry therein, and was received with all the testimonies of imaginable joy. But being willing to see the Burghers in Arms, he ordered them to carry them to the town-house, reproaching that they had defended themselves too ill, and that he would give them to others who should make better use of them. Thus Charles punished ●hem the first day, for their unfidelity to their King. After this expedition ●e went to Warsaw, to assist there 〈◊〉 the Diet he had convoqued, ho●●ing that the Senators would not fail to offer him the Crown: But beginning to discover the fault they had committed, in not disputing with Charles his entering into the Kingdom, they did not answer his expectation: And Casimer having con●●oqued another Diet at Eopol, in Silesia, and invited the Nobility to come thither; the first who appeared was the valiant Charneski with his Troops; Volf would have followed him with his, but was hindered by the Swedes. Nothing could be added to the Caresses the King made him, and he had great reason to do so, since in the Sequel he was the restorer of his affairs. He sent Ambassadors to all the Princes his Allies to demand succours; that to Rome obtained a considerable Sum from the Pope; that to Vienna good hopes, and the Queen having sold all her Jewels, he hoped to put things in a better Posture. His Court was not very great at Eopol, and he needed consolation for the supporting all the disgraces that Forrune had sent him. He found none greater than the Conversation of Mademeiselle de Schanfield, whom he still loved with much passion, and by whom he was likewise beloved. They continued to meet in the Marchionesses Apartment: But at length the Queen discovered it, she highly resented this new Intrigue, and in the first transport o● her jealousy would have removed Mademaiselle de Schanfield from Court, and have sent back the Marchioness into France. The King had occasion of managing the Queen, and things were not longer in the same posture they were in the time of the Vice-Chancellor's Lady: Wherhfore he used peaceable means and appeased the Queen, by promising ●er to think not more of Mademoi●lle de Schanfield: The Queen was ●●●tisfied with this promise; and Sasimer having constrained himself for some days, she easily believed ●e would keep his word. But as ●e was not able to live without seeing Mademoiselle de Schanfield, and that he likewise considered on the other side, that if the Queen should again discover that he still loved her, ●●e would not fail to sand her back. In this grievous extremity that caus●ed in him pains that sensibly touched his heart, ●he resolved to marry Mademoiselle de Schanfield to the Prince of Zamoski, in the opinion he might at lest continued to love her, and be beloved; whereas if the Queen sent her back, which was infallible, he should loose her for ever. He communicated this design to the Baron, as to the person he designed for the negotiating this Marriage▪ and after having given him all the necessary instructions for his succeeding in it, he ordered him to be ready to go to Zamoski. And that it might no● be believed that this was the occasion of the Baron's journey thither, he gave him Orders addressed to the Prince for the fortifying the Place● The Marchioness was of the confidence; neither did the Baron make any difficulty to discover to her his business. The voyage was long and dangerous, she could not forbears being grieved, and shed tears; the Baron was also concerned; and Mademoiselle de Schanfield having found them in this posture, knew not to what she should attribute this great sadness. Wherhfore she asked them very obligingly what was the cause of it, and assured them if she could contribute to their satisfaction, she would do it with all her heart. The Marchioness madesome difficulty to ●●ll it her, apprehending the King ●ould take it ill; But in fine Made●oiselle de Schanfield pressed her with 〈◊〉 good a grace, and with so much earnestness, that the Marchioness did really avow to her what was the subject of their grief. Yes, Mademoiselle, added the Marchioness, we are only afflicted for your sake, and ●f I loved you lesle, I could with more case bear with your removal. They talk of marrying you, the Baron has Orders to negotiate your marriage, and perhaps he will innocently contribute to the rendering you unfortunate the rest of your days; for it is very uneasy to disengage One's heart when it is fixed by such pleasing ties as are those of a great Prince, who loves you, or rather who adores you; and when One is sensible, it is very hard to be on a sudden under the laws of a husband, who never having been a Lover, imperiously uses the power he has over us. Mademoiselle de Schanfield who knew nothing yet of the design the King had of marrying her, was so surprised with the Marchionesses discovery, that she eyed her a long time, after a manner that made her judge she had spoke too much; For that fair Person after having changed colour several times, fell into a swoon into the Marchionesses arms, and when she came to herself, she could only say these sad words! Ha! Sir, since you do not love me, why will you tender me unhahpy! and than fainted the second time; But in fine the tears which fell from her fair Eyes, having something recovered her from her surprise, she said the most moving things imaginable; and the Baron and Marchioness could not forbear mingling their tears with those of Mademoiselle de Schanfield. It was the usual hour that Casimer came to see her, he entered the Chamber they were in without their taking notice of it; He was not a little amazed to see them all three in ●hat posture, and not being able to imagine the cruse, he stood as immovable; the Baron being the first that perceived him, rose immediately to give him a Chair, those two lovely persons did all that they could to recover their briskness, fancying the King had not seen them, and Mademoiselle de Schanfield being willing to turn the thing into Raillery, told him, truly, S●●, it is not civil to surprise Ladies thus, and to walk as softly as if you were to pass by Sentinels in your way to a Randevouze; the King remembering the danger he had been in, told her, that he was not lesle grieved than the day he was so ill treated, since that having found her crying without knowing the Cause, he stopped, not being able to walk. But if you love me, Mademoiselle, added he, as much you would persuade me you do, you should acquaint me with the occasion of it, if it depends on me, it not being just you should conceal the thoughts to the person in the world, who takes most part in all that concerns you: Sir, answered that Charming Maid, it is so natural to those of our sex to have Compassion of persons that are ill treated, that the Baron de Saint-Cir having made us the recital of a very tragical story that he had learned, we could not forbear shedding tears, and I am certain though you are lesle tender than we, you would have been not lesle concerned; This, Sir, was the Cause of our sadness, nothing being able to grieve me long, while that your Majesty shall honour me with looking upon me favourably. But if I was so unfortunate that you should resolve toabandon me, I avow to you that I should never be able to receive any satisfaction. I believe, replied Casimer, ●●mething blushing, that you are so just as to allow, that from the time I have loved you, I have done all that depends on me, to persuade you that you are the dearest person to me in the world: and thus I cannot see how I could resolve to abandon you, seeing if I had the thoughts of it, I should tender myself more unhappy than you. Wherhfore be assured that let what will hap I shall never forget you; but after this assurance that I make you, do not found, it strange (at these words he made a deep sigh) that I myself acquaint you with a piece of news, that will without doubt as much surprise you, as it has a long time afflicted me. You know that the Queens jealously moves her to sand you back to your Relations; I shall not brag of what I have done to ●●●der it, it being useless: But apprehending that at length she may come to that extemity, I have resolved to get you a Husband. How! Sir, replied impatiently, Mademoiselle de Schanfield, could you take such a resolution, after all the Protestations I have so often made you of never marrying. Ah! If you loved me you would not give me to an Other. Not, Sir, you do not love me, you ever deceived me when you told me you loved me. When we are deep in love, we always know how to found the means of preserving what we love. Love never fails such as are faithful to him; and it is in those occasions he shows his Power. But if you have been able to fail in your word to him, believe, Sir, added she crying, that I will keep mine with him, and that my Constancy shall reproach you with your infidelity. What you say, answered Casimer, wholly amazed, is too advantageous for me to blame it, and I ever expected this usage from you. But if you make but the lest Reflection upon the necessity I am in of having you married, or of losing you, for ever I believe that you will grant that what you call a defect of love in me, is one of the greatest marks of passion I can give you in so ill a juncture. For as Love aught not only to consist in loving the persons who loves us with all the tenderness and passion they are capable of, but that we aught likewise to love their Reputations, and all that can be advantageous to them, though it may be sometimes repugnant to our inclinations. It is certain that if we act otherwise, and that we only consider our pleasures as the only objects of our passion, it would be rather a self love than a real affection. And thus you see, Mademoiselle, that it is love maintained by reason that obliges me to act in this manner. I very well know you may answer it is no great sign of Love, to resolve to share with an other what we aught to possess alone, and that this may be even called by the name of a Civil falling out. But not only believing you to be too just as to have one thought which would be so disadvantageous to me, my dignity would shelter me from that reproach, since that Kings, though Sovereigns, may not act as other men. Their hearts as well as others are susceptible of all passions; they love, and yet their greatness which aught to be a help to them with their Mistresses, is what the most ruins them. The Queen knows I love you as much as one can love, and notwithstanding the promises I made her, she cannot fail of discovering that I do not keep them. She would sand you back to your Relations, they would put you into a Convent, both the one or the other would equally injure your reputation, and would deprive me of ever seeing you. Wherhfore I cannot do better either for you or myself, than to marry you within my Kingdom: I have cast my eyes upon Prince Zamoski, who might make an other happy, and I will so strongly engage him in the Court, that we shall be both of us happy. Resist not longer to give your consent, keep it secret, and do not accuse me of inconstancy and of having little love. Sir, replied Mademoiselle de Schanfeild, who was still weeping, since your passion must stoop to the Queen's jealousy, and that I must part from you, permit me to shut myself up in a Convent, rather than to see myself under the power of a Husband, whose Caprichio would be without doubt fatal to me; in such a place I should satisfy my inclination and what I own to you; and if I may not have the liberty of seeing you, at lest I shall have the joy of giving you all my thoughts, you shall ever Reign in my heart notwithstanding the Queen's transports: Love shall not be shared with divorce, and in fine the hopes I shall be in, that you will ever love me, will make me suffer my disgrace with constancy and without complaining. Casimer seeing this resistance, was in a strange perplexity, and his Soul divided between love and fear, made him take a thousand different Resolutions; but after having kept silence some time, he answered with a tone that made apparent the pain he was in. As the repose both of your life and mine is concerned in the choice you are to make, I should be too unjust, if I obliged you to give me instantly a positive answer. I leave you alone to think of it seriously, but especially remember, Mademoiselle, that liberty is the greatest happiness, and that you will have not sooner lost it in shutting yourself up in a Cloister, than that you will make useless vows for the recovering it. In finishing these words, Casimer not being able to continued this conversation, having bid the Baron follow him, he left Mademoiselle de Schanfeild with the Marchioness in an unexpressible affliction. As he was not lesle agitated for his part, he was a long time without speaking, but after much walking, he acquainted the Baron with the Cause of his disquiet, and ordered him to be ready to departed in four days, and in the mean time to use all his endeavours with Mademoiselle de Schanfeild to get her consent to this marriage. After which he dismissed him. The Baron returned to the Marchioness, whom he found all alone, and having with grief acquainted her, that the King was resolved he should departed without delay (which extremity surprised her, she expecting his passion for Mademoiselle de Schanfield would have made him change his design; he also retired to his lodging. Sleep; which eases the most stirring griefs; was not that night known by those four persons, who having all their several afflictions, passed it in that trouble that is easy to be apprehended: So that the day hardly began to appear, than that Mademoiselle de Schanfield went to the Marchioness extremely dejected: There was not longer seen in her fair Eyes that sparkling that made their glances hardly to be supported, and her whole person was so languishing, that she would have inspired Compassion in the most savage minds. She not sooner saw the Marchioness, who was in bed, than that she said to her, with the most moving air imaginable; well Madam, have you found any remedy to my misfortune, or will you avow with me, that never any one was greater, and that on what side soever I look, I found myself unhaply? I grant, answered the Marchioness, that you are much to be pitied, and that a heart must be harder than Marble, that is infensible to your just grief. I do certainly take all the part that a real friend aught to take in it, and it has so disquieted me all the night that I could not possibly shut my Eyes. But as of two ills the lest is to be chosen, I still think it better to marry, than to be shut all one's life in a Convent: For though our liberties be engaged in marrying, and that we are obliged to support the ill humours of our husbands, and sometime their contempt, we do not however so absolutely loose it, but that there remains that of telling him our sentiments; and for the finding the means of satisfying our inclinations, a little Complaisance when we cannot have Love, may lul a sleep his vigilance, if he be of a jealous humour, and even very often get into his confidence, how morose soever he may be; In fine, Mademoiselle, you will be at Court, you will see the King there, and methinks this is not to be very much a slave: But in a Convent you cannot do the like, you must give an account of all your actions to your Superior, never see any body, but by her permission: and that which I found most insupportable is, that you must pass your whole life without being suffered to follow your will! It is for you, Mademoiselle, to determine and see which you like best, for the Baron must departed within four days to go to Prince Zamoski, whom the King designs you; and if you would follow my advice, added the Marchioness, you should choose this Party. Mademoiselle de Schanfield was a long time without answering otherwise than by sighs, which shown the condition her heart was in; but after having said a great many things more, which made appear the cruel agitation this choice reduced her to: In fine she resolved rather to please the King, than out of any inclination she had to Wedlock, to marry Prince Zamoski. The Baron coming in a moment after, the Marchioness informed him that Mademoiselle de Schanfield would submit to the King's william. He thinking to carry him welcome News, went immediately to give him an account of it: But he found this Prince in so unequal a disposition of mind, that though he had declared to him the evening before, that he desired nothing with more passion than to see Mademoiselle de Schanfield in the Resolution she was now in; Casimer appeared however so extremely afflicted at it, and after having walked some time with precipitation; how unhappy am I! cried he on a sudden, to labour with earnestness for what will cost me so much grief: I oblige a person who loves me, to put herself against her will under the laws of a Husband, and yet I cannot be content that she grants me what I demand of her. Ah! how true it is, added he a moment after, that Love and Reason are incompatible: From whence proceeds it that I have so little resolution after having had the power of making myself such a proposition: It is without doubt some good genius that expressly occasions my irresolutions, to set my mind at rest, by preserving my Mistress: But also what will the Queen say? What will she not do, if she perceives I have failed in my word to her? as it is impossible but that I must fail: She will shut up my Mistress, or sand her away for ever; I shall see her not more, and I shall dye for grief: Not, not, I must keep to my first sentiments as being most just, since in marrying out Mademoiselle de Schanfield I shall content the Queen, and still possess her heart. But alas! replied this amorous King, sighing, Who will assure me that this heart will be still faithful to me when it is engaged? Prince Zamoski is young, handsome, lovely, she may love him, and would have reason to do so: Why am not I in his place? and can One be more unfortunate! After having still held some such like discourses as these, he told the Baron that if he had been so long a time without giving him an answer, it: was because he had much ado to vanquish some scruples he still had, but that he should departed within two days at the farthest for Zamosbi. In effect Casimer gave him his Orders for the Prince, and the Baron of Saint-Cir having settled his affairs, he begun his journey the day after for Zamoski. If the King was much afflicted by being forced to marry his Mistress for the preserving her, he was no lesle at the news of the continuation of his Enemy's Progress. Charles had not found at Warsaw what he had promised himself, but fortune gave him the cosolation of reducing the City of Elbing, which followed the example of Torn, thro' the Treachery of a Burgher-Master they had corrupted. Charles was received there in Triumph, and this happy success was followed by another, which being more advantageous, might absolutely have ruined Casimer. The Elector of Brandenburg had not yet declared himself, and remained in Prussia with his Troops. Charles divided his in two, of which he sent one part to besiege Marrembourg, and with the other he went directly into ducal Prussia, where the Quartians made great ravages. He met Count Mgnus de la Garde in Lifeland, with an Army of eighteen thousand men, which he joined to his own, and made known to the Elector if he would not take his part, he would besiege Koningisberg, and ruin his Province. The Elector declared he would defend himself; but Charles approaching within five Leagues of Koninsberg, He made Charles Godfather to his Son, and the Elector was the like to his. Chancellor Oxonstierne went to him 〈◊〉 the King's part, and carried him such an answer as he desired. The King and the Elector conferred at Barestain with testimonies of friendship and joy, which promised no lesle than the shareing of the Kingdom of Poland: They made a Treaty of Alliance together, by which amongst other things the Elector acknowledged the King of Sweden the Lord of the fire for Ducal Prussia. And in acknowledgement Charles granted to the Elector the Bishopric of Varminia, in reserve of Bronsberg, a very Catholic City, and a University of the Polanders. The States of the Country were not very well satisfied, but they could not hinder it: The Elector returned to Koningsberg, where he caused to be published that all the Polanders who should refuse to make Oath to the King of Sweden, should retire. Insomuch that Casimer had not more left than the Cities of Danzight, and Mariemburg. The first rendered its fidelity remarkable to Posterity, the Inhabitants set fire on their Suburbs, and what promises soever that were made them of preserving their Privileges, and even of augmenting them, they were unalterable in the Resolution they had taken of defending themselves to the last extremity. This City is the largest, most powerful, and has the greatest Commerce of all those of the North, and the Magistrates seeing their King abandoned, and without forces to secure them, augmented their Troops, sent Deputies to the Hague for the remonstrating to the States the interest they had to aid them, that the liberty of Commerce might be preserved; and in fine they omitted nothing that might conduce to their maintenance. Yet Charles had therein his Partisans who powerfully caballed for the making him Master of that important Place: They decried Casimer in all kinds, even accusing him that he would exterminate all those who were not Catholics, and this began to make for his advantage: But besides that Casimer destroyed those impostures by the Letters he sent to the Magistrates, to whom he promised powerful succours: The people of Danzick having learned that Charles had disarmed the Burghers of Tornes, and done some other things contrary to the terms of the Capitulation; this so animated them against him, that they begun to decry him, and caused a new Oath to be taken to defend themselves without being suffered to propose yielding upon pain of Death. Charles having left General Steembock before Mariembourg and settled all in Prussia, went into Poland for to chase Casimer entirely away, who was gathering Troops upon the Frontiers of Hungary to try the recovery of what he had lost. Some of the Nobility beginning to be weary of the Swedish yoke, having joined Casimer, he sent Morstein to the great Cham of Tartary to demand of him succours, and obtained forty thousand Horse, and Charneski having made a Body of four and twenty Cornets of Cavellery, without Canon, and without Infantry. Charles quitted Warsaw, and went to seek him with all his Troops in the neighbourhood of Lublin. Thomas Charles was Inferior in Troops to Casimer, his great courage obliged him to ●ight. The King of Sweden gave ●he right wing of the Battle to ●ittemberg, and the left wing to Douglas. The two Armies met, the Shocque was terrible, and the Swedes who were not used to found resistance, were surprised at that they met with. Charneski being desirous to revenge Casimer, did all he could to found out Charles; more than twelve hundred Swedes fell by their sables, Prince Adolphus was wounded in the knee, and constrained to return to Warsaw: The King was likewise in very great danger; but in fine Charneski seeing he could not join him, and fearing to be surrounded, made his passage with his sable in his hand and retracted, after having given marks of an extraordinary valour. The loss was almost equal, and the Polanders flight was much more prejudicial to them than the battle, of which the King of Swedon had however the glory. Charneski● retreated to Samoski, where the Baron de Saint-Cir had delivered his dispatches to Prince Zanoski, who caused the fortifications to be repaired, which Charneski found in a good posture, and while that he made his Troops repose there, the Baron acquitted himself with success of the Commission that Casimer had given him. In effect the Prince having ask him the News of what passed at Casimers' Court, the Baron cunningly made him so advantageous a description of Mademoiselle de Schanfield that he conceived a great esteem for her. Some days after falling again upon the same discourse, he so exaggerated that Lady's Beauty and the other Qualities of her wit, that the Prince seemed desirous to see her; to which the Baron having made answer that he might do it if he pleased, and even marry her, being assured that the King would consent to it. Perceiving that this discourse was not unpleasant to the Prince, he also offered to make the propositions, and to negotiate the thing; assuring him that being a great Prince, and very rich, he could not do better than to take a Wife who would tender him the happiest of all men. The Baron pushed the thing further and so inflamed the Prince for Mademoiselle de Schanfield, that he obliged him to writ her this Letter.  
YOur Beauty makes so much noise and it is maintained by so much ●erit that it is not to be wondered, Mademoiselle, if notwithstanding the furies of the War you created ado●ers. For my part, to whom all fine things are infinitely agreeable, I really avow that the description that has been made me of your person, has deprived me of my heart and Liberty. If this Confession does not displease you, Mademoiselle, and that you will give me leave to come and confirm to you my deseat, I dare assure you that of all those who have the honour to wear your Chains, there is not one who is more perfectly subdued than  
Prince Zareoski.  
The Baron de Saint Cir having received this Letter from the Prince, sent it to Mademeiselle de Schanfield who shown it the King. But the Queen having discovered the true occasion of the Baron's voyage, and not being willing to suffer that Mudemoiselle de Schanfield should be so well settled, sentan other Gentleman to Zamoski for to persuade the Prince from this marriage, and propose to him that of another Maid of Honour called Mademei. sell d' Arquiem by birth a French-Woman. This Mademoiselle de Aroviem was no lesle beautiful than Mademoifelle de Schanfield, and had likewise the advantage of being much in the Queen's favour. Wherhfore Casimer gave the Baron notice of it with order to traverse this Envoy, and to make known to the Prince that he acted without his orders. He also writ to Zamoski that he approved his marriage with Mademoiselle de Schanfield. And that he might the more engage him, he consented she should make the following answer.  
I Did not expect, My Lord, to make conquests so far of, nor so considerable as those you have done me the Honour to mention; and I had hitherto believed my solf so much below the praises that you give me, that if an other Prince had made me such assurances, I should have been far from having thoughts of meriting them. But My Lord, I found myself so inclined to give credit to persons of your rank, that if you never so little continued to wish me well, I shall have reason to think myself perfectly happy.  
This Letter and the Queen's envoy arrived almost at the same time at Zamosk, and the Prince appeared so well satisfied with the wit of Mademoiselle de Schanfield that the Baron believed him, too much in love to forbear marrying her. But as the Envoy spoke no lesle advantageously of Mademoiselle d' Arquiem, the Prince seemed very much perplexed, especially because the Queen proposed to him the marrying this last, and the giving him proportionable advantages. The Baron endeavoured to destroy all that the Envoy had done, in declaring to the Prince that his glory was concerned not to appear inconstant, that the King might likewise be offended with his procedure; and in fine that the offers the Queen made him would more slain his reputation than they would be of advantage to him; that such great Lords as he aught never to do any thing out of interest. These reasons were convincing, the Prince made reflection on them, and answered the Queen's Envoy with much indifference in all the other Conferences they had together. But that which quite determined the Prince in favour of Mademoiselle de Schanfield, was a piece of the Barons cunning. He was used to play very often with Zamoski, as well for the diverting him, as because it gave him the more liberty to tell him his sentiments, and in effect he had acquired by these means a great familiarity with him. The Baron had some days before lost a Discretion to that Prince, he thought to acquit himself of it handsomely the Conjuncture appearing too favourable to him for to neglect it. Wherhfore he cunningly made the Prince accuse him of not being punctual in paying. And after having accused himself of the impossbility of finding any thing that was agreeable to him, he took out a fine embroidered, Purse, in which was Mademoiselle de Schanfields Picture, and giving it to the Prince he told him; I hope my Lord, you will grant one cannot be too discreet when a present is to be made so considerable as that I offer you; neither do I know added the Baron smiling, if what I offer you in my purse may not make you uneasy. The Prince whom these words made very curious, hastily opened the Purse, and having taken out of it Mademoiselle de Schanfie'ds Picture (which was in a little golden Box set with Diamonds) he appeared in so great an astonishment that he remained 〈◊〉 long time immovable. And his surprise continuing, the Baron being desirous to know his opinion, told him, well my Lord, could I have given you a finer thing? I am so Charmed, answered the Prince, I have not words capable of thanking you nor of expressing my joy; but is it possible that the Original of this picture is as handsome as the Painter represents herd far more, replied the Baron, for though art endeavours to imitate nature, and that Painters are usually great flatterers, I dare assure you that there are certain features in Mademoiselle de Schanfield's face which are so fine, and delicate, and so much sparkling in her Eyes, that it is impossible for the most able Painters to describe them. Thus you see, my Lord, that I have not surprised you, and what advantage soever the Queen proposes, she can never make any that approaches the satisfaction you will have in possessing that fair person, whose Wit is answerable to the Charms of her face. The Baron finding the Prince disposed to hear him favourably, and to believe what he said, added several other things to what I have mentioned, insomuch that at length Zamoski dismissed the Queen's Envoy, to whom he declared he had other engagements he could not break. The Queen was too haughty to be therewith satisfied, and fancying her Envoy had not acquitted himself well of his Commission, she found the means of causing Prince Zamoski to come to Court, in the opinion he could not resist what she should tell him herself. The Baron accompanied the Prince, and his voyage was not approved of by Casimer, because he could not openly oppose the Queens Will; Yet he received him with testimonies of esteem which made appear the great consideration he had for him. The Queen for her part forgot nothing that might engage him to marry Mademoiselle de Arquiem, and to that end was more civil to him than she would otherwise have been: Insomuch that the Prince might have thought himself very happy, if he had not fallen as much in love with Mademoiselle de Arquiem as he was already with Mademoiselle de Schanfield. But as he could marry but One, and that he was pressed to determine the uncertainty he was in, rendered him the most restless of all men. He went to visit those two fair Ladies one after the other, regularly every day, and as Mademoiselle de Schanfield spoke to him with more liberty than the other did, by reason of the Letters that had passed between them, she reproached him so agreably with his inconstancy, or rather to say his irresolution, that as long as he was with her, he did not think that Mademoiselle de Arquiem was in the world. And as he was very handsome, and had about a million of livres a year, and appeared very passionate, Mademoiselle de Schanfield began really to love him, and to resolve to possess him entirely, Mademoiselle de Arquiem was younger, but the Queen was a good Mistress, and as she had commanded her to be very complaisant to the Prince, though before she had been more inclined for young Zobieski, to whom she had even promised her in marriage: When that Zamoski took his turn to visit Mademoiselle de Arquiem, that bashfulness which is almost inseparable to all young persons, so charmed the Prince, that he was ever as well contented with his two Mistresses as he was dissatisfied with himself. Casimer perceiving Mademoiselle de Schanfields' inclination, suffered no lesle on his side than the Prince did on his, and there was this diffence between their pains, that the King could not complain with Justice of the ills he endured, because he himself was the cause of them. Mademoiselle de Schanfield and Mademoiselle d' Arquiem, who had thitherto agreed very well together, could not forbear being jealous of one another, they disputed for the preference, and each of them thought to merit more than her Companion, insomuch that notwithstanding the ill successes of the War, all this intrigue did not fail to give delight, and to tender the Court agreeable. Casimer was the first who was weary of it, he could not conceal his jealousy from the Baron, and the Baron had too much Complaisance to let the King suffer any longer. So that he found the means of carrying the Prince back to Zamoski, notwithstanding the desire he had to stay at Court. The Queen did all she could to detain him, But the Baron who had rendered himself very agreeable to the Prince, remonstrated to him, that he aught for his Honour's sake to return, that he might avoid the affront he would infallibly do one of those Ladies, if he resolved to marry, in fine they went back to Zamosch. The Prince, who was passionately in love, was not sooner arrived there, than that he would have returned. Thomas the Baron remonstrated that it would do him an extreme injury; all this did not persuade him from his Resolution. Insomuch that not being able to hinder his depart, he gave the King notice of it, who ordered him to stay at Zamosch to defend it against the Swedes who were to attack it: This News put the Prince into the worst humour imaginable, he found nothing pleasant, and he would have fancied it had been done on purpose, if the King of Sweden had not some days after effectually sent Troops to invest the place. As it was of extreme importance to the Republic, the approach of these forces caused some trouble in him at first in the opinion he had the Sieg would employ him a long time. But the interest of his Country and his own Glory having suspended for a time the impetuous motions of his passion, he applied himself very seriously to the giving the necessary orders for the making a vigorous Resistance. In effect the promises that were made him did neither shake his Courage nor fidelity, Insomuch that the King resolved to make that siege in person. He himself assigned all the Quarters for his Army, he caused the lines of Circonvalation to be made with an admirable promptness, and as he went to view the place and to appoint one for the raising a Battery, having a Scarlet Coat on with a white Feather in his Hat, a Canonnier of the Town who knew him by these marks, and because there were several Officers near his Person, pointed his Canon so right, that one of those who talked to the King was killed, and with the same shot this Prince fell, and was above an hour in a Swoon without any sign of Life. Being however recovered from his Swoon and not wounded, he continued with eagerness what he had begun, and having opened the Trenches within Musket shot, he pressed the place in such a manner that it made appear the extreme desire he had to take it. As it had five Bastions, and was environed on one side with a very deep Pond and of a very great breadth, that there was likewise outworks in a Condition of resisting some days, between two and three thousand as well Burghers as Soldiers for to defend it, with all sort of provision and Ammunition in abundance. The Prince was not at all astonished at the King's presence nor at the number of his Troops. He was young and vigorous and one of the bravest men of the Nation. He was seconded by the Baron de Saint-Cir, and the Love he had for Mademoiselle de Schanfield who than alone Reigned in his heart, being joined to his great Courage, it may be said he undertook suprizing things. Charles' Troops had but thitherto met with effiminacy, and found by some sallies that were made upon them, that the Polanders are not a people to be easily Conquered, when they are well headed and well united. Several Swedes lost there lives, and in the three days the King spent in taking the outworks, he lost above a thousand men. The Prince was more concerned that he learned no news of his Mistress than he was for the well defending his Town: and as he had promised her to return suddenly to Court, and that he could not make known to her what it was that bindred, the fear he was in she should think him unfaithful, put him into an extreme pain, he could not forbear making it known to the Baron, and being one night retired together to take rest: Am not I very unfortunate, said he to him, to see myself in the impossibility of keeping my word with the most lovely person that ever was, will she not have reason to believe that I am unfaithful, and to loose all that esteem and kindness she hath showed me with so much goodness? I confess my Lord answered the Baron, that Mademoiselle de Schanfield not knowing you are besieged, may perhaps complain you have forgot her. And having that consideration she has for you, her complaints would be well enough grounded. Yet as the King will not fail of being informed of the condition we are in, I dare assure you that she will not sooner know it than that her fear with be dissipated, and she will make vows in your favour. The Baron had hardly pronounced these last words, when one of the Prince's Gentlemen entered on a sudden into the Chamber they were in, and told him that the Enemies taking the occasion of the mighty darkness of the night, having seized on the Counterscarpe of the great Bastion, began already to lodge; that on the Pond side they had done the like, and that in fine if they did not hasten to repulse them, it was to be feared it would much advance the taking of the Town. Any other than the Prince might with justice have been alarmed at this News. But having told the Baron that after having chased away the Enemies they would continued their discourse, he caused his Arms immediately to be brought, and without the appearance of any concern in his face having drawn up his people, he divided them into two Troops, and having put himself at the head of one of them, and given the command of the other to the Baron: Flambeaux were lighted upon the Walls, and the first discharge was made so luckily upon those that laboured on the lodgings, that in lesle than a quarter of an hour the Counterscarpe was almost Covered with the dead and wounded. The Baron likewise behaved himself admirably well on the Pond side, insomuch that the Enemies notwithstanding their Canon and Bombs, were so vigorously repulsed, and with so much loss, that Charles begun to despair of taking the Place, which he thought to have won in eight days. However the Canon having made three great Breaches the day after, and Charles imagining that the Bombs had desolated the City, out of a kind of Raillery sent to demand of the Prince if he desired a truce for the putting the Ladies out of fear and in safety: But as he had taken such order that neither the Canon or Bombs caused almost any damage; he let the King know that be thanked him for his generosity, that the Canon had only killed one old Woman, and that if he made no greater efforts with his forces he hoped in few days he might likewise offer him a truce for the giving him time to bury the dead and retreat in safety. Thomas the King was extreme haughty he seemed not at all vexed at this generous answer, and being willing to use his utmost endeavours for the winning the place, The gave orders for a general attack. He had in his Army three thousand Jews whom he had forced to take Arms, and to lay by Commerce which that Nation is wholly addicted to. Especially in Poland where they are very numerous, and where all manner of Religions are permitted. These Jews commanded by the Swedish Officers were the first that mounted to the attaque by three several places. But whether they were not yet well martialized, or that the courage of the besieged augmented out of the necessity of fight for the defence of their Walls; it is certain that almost all those Infidels were killed upon the place, and in that occasion the King lost above four thousand men: However he believed it a dishonour to him to raise the sieg, and not being willing to omit any thing for the succeeding in his Enterprise, he sent a trumpeter to the Town Gate to demand to speak with the Prince, who was in his Cabinet with the Baron de Saint-Cir, where they were contriving together for the finding some Expedient to learn news of Mademoiselle de Schanfield, with whom he became daily more in love than he had ever been: Whereupon he gave Orders the Trompeter should be brought as near as could be to the great Bastion, which being done, the Prince went thither incontinently, where after having made himself known, the Trompeter told him that the King before he would make the utmost trial for the taking him and his town, desired to have a Conference with him, and to that end he might come into his Camp in all safety, and that he hoped a discourse of two hours would terminate great differences, and save the lives of several persons. That if he made difficulty to rely upon the word of so great a King, he would sand one of his Officers to acquaint him with his intentions. The Prince perceiving that for want of force, Charles' would use address and endeavour to surprise him, was upon the point of sending the Trompeter back without an answer. But his Town being in a very good posture, and the abundance of all things there so great, that they found wherewith to satisfy themselves with as much profusion as if it had not been besieged, he imagined that what the King thought would be favourable to him, would certainly oblige him to raise his sieg by the faithful account the Officer should give him. Wherhfore he called a Council of War, that he might not be reproached with any thing, and having in few words exposed what we have now rolated, it was resolved the King should be allowed to sand an Officer: The Prince let the Trompeter know, he should return with that account to his Master. And half an hour after returning with Col. Wrangel, Count Podelctoski the Prince's favourite, accompanied with the Baron, and followed by fifty Heydukes' of his Guard, went out to meet him. After the Compliments his Eyes were bound over with a Scarf; and being introduced thro' the Pond-gate, he was conducted in that manner into the lower Court of the Prince's Castle, where they gave him the liberty of his sight. It was there that Wrangel appeared in an extreme surprise, to see so much magnificence in a City of War. But it was much augmented when Zamoski, followed by two hundred Gentlemen, and the bravest of his Court, came and received him in his second Court, and treated him with all the civility he could have expected. After the first Ceremonies, he led him into an apartment, whose furniture was so rich, and all the rest so well suited, that he had never seen any thing more magnificent; he could not forbear looking and admiring. But the Prince having a mind to surprise him after another manner, and had secretly given order for the preparing a great supper, where Delicacy and Profusion made it equally perceived, that he was not in a Condition of apprehending to want Victuals. When all was prepared, he conducted the Colonel into a great Hall, where several Tables were served in the same Order; and having caused him to sit by him, while they were thus feasting, a Concert of Music and Trumpets diverted them so agreeably, that Wrangel fancied himself in an Enchanted Palace. But after having been well entertained, the Prince who was not lesle Gallant than he was brave, carried Wrangel into another Hall, where all the Ladies of the Town, and several others of the Country who had took refuge there before the ●eg, coming here a moment after in extraordinary dresses, he begun the Ball which instead a good part of the night; insomuch that the Colonel not being able to testify his satisfaction to the Prince, went to bed without speaking of affairs. The day after Zamoski coming to him in his Chamber, after that all the people were retired, Wrangel told him that the King his Master having a particular esteem for his person, both for his merit, and the great courage he had shown since the sieg, he had conceived the thoughts of marrying him to a Princess of his blood, and that in consideration of this marriage, he would erect Zamoski into a Sovereignty, with a greater extent of land than than depended on it. That for this he only demanded the Right of investiture in the same manner as the Elector of Brandenburg held Prussia, and that for surety he might during three years keep a Garrison in the Place. And having likewise added several other Circumstances capable to seduce a weak man; the Prince, who was not of this Character, and whose zeal and fidelity for King Casimer had appeared in several Occasions, eyeing Wrangel, told him with a haughty air, that having done nothing that might oblige the King his Master to make him Propositions so prejudicial to his honour, he prayed him to assure him that he would found in the sequel of the sieg, as much courage and resistance in the lest of the Inhabitants of his Town, as he had found weakness and infidelity in Casimer's other Subjects, and that he should defend himself to the utmost extremity: and that if fortune made the King his Conqueror, he believed him so generous, that he would treat him like a man of his Quality, and that he would honour him with his esteem. After this discourse having drawn up all his Troops in Battle, and asked Wrangel if having so many brave men he would counsel him to tender. The Colonel who was charmed as well with though Prince's good Entertainment as his generous Resolution, after having thanked him for the honours he had received, assured him that he would all his life time be full of acknowledgement; and asked his permission to retire: whereupon Wrangel himself bound his scarf upon his Eyes, and those who had brought ●im, having ieconducted him to the place where they had received him, the recital he made to the King of all we have mentioned, so surprised this Prince; that his Army being already much diminished, as well by the number of the dead and wounded, as by diseases and disertions, he resolved to raise the sieg, which he did the night following, and retired intored- Russia, upon the River D●zane. Zamoski being thus gloriously delivered, abandoned himself entirely to the cares of his Love, and having caused the Baron to enter into his Closet, it is time, said he to him, with a very passionate Tone, that I acquit myself of what I have promised; we have not longer any Enemies to fight with, nor a City to defend: Wherhfore let us return to Court and assure by our presence her for whose sake life is only pleasant to me, that I am ever faithful. If I stayed longer here she would have reason to complain, and I would rather die than give her the lest occasion to do so. The Baron was extremely pleased to see the Prince had so tender sentements for Mademoiselle de Schanfield, and was not lesle impatient than he to be there. But being informed the same day that the sieg was raised that Casimer had quitted Oppol, and was come with all the Court to the Castle of Glogow, belonging to Count Dosbrestol; he made the Prince comprehend that the Enemies having several flying Camps in the field, it was to be feared he might fall into their hands, and thus it would be more convenient he alone should take a voyage to Glogow, since he would not only tender an exact account of all that had passed in the sieg, but that he would make likewise known the state his passion had put him in, and that he would take such measures as were requisite for their seeing one another with safety, and entertaining a Commerce of Letter. And that it might otherwise come to pass that the King of Sweden coming to know that he had quitted Zamosch, would not fail to besieg it again, which would occasion without doubt the loss of the place. And therefore that he aught for all these reasons let him run the risk of a journey, which Zamoski could hardly be persuaded to: Yet after having still a long time persisted in his first Resolution, having at length drawn up an account for the King of the Principal Circumstances of the sieg, he referred to the Baron the care of acquainting him with the rest, and dismissing him gave him this Letter for Mademoiselle de Schanfield.  
IT was very just, Mademoiselle, that after having rendered you the absolute Mistress of my heart, I should likewise vanquish the King of Sweden, that I might make you a double homage of his defeat and my Own. But what glory soever I have procured by having stopped the Course of his Victeries, I shall have reason to complain of my fate, if you are not persuaded that I think the passion I have of serving you, a thousand times more glorious. Yes, Mademoiselle, nothing is comparable to my love; and absence which destroys the greatest passions, has so augmented mine, that I die with impatience to ●●e you again. How happy should I be if you had the same earnestness! but, alas! how great is my misfortune to be forced to stay here; and why must a beaten Enemy hinder me from going to declare myself entirely Yours  
Zamoski.  
If the Prince was much in pain to part with the Baron, this last had yet much more to get to Glogow; he had a above a dozen times like to have been taken by Swedish parties, and it was thro' a Kind of miracle that he came at length to Court. Casimer who had been informed of the sieg of Zamosch, and who knew not what the success had been of it, took an extreme delight in learning from the Baron all the particulars of what had passed, and that the Prince had determined in favour of Mademoiselle de Schanfield, for whom he begun to have not longer so much passion, though he had still for her a great deal of good w●ll. All the Court took part in this good success, as may be imagined. But after that Mademoiselle de Schanfield had read the Prince's Letter, and that the Baron had likewise acquainted her with several particulars that persuaded her of his passion. That fair person had such a contentment of mind as cannot be described. The Queen observed it with vexation, and Mademoiselle de Arquiem as young as she was, being but fourteen years old, would also have suffered it very impatiently, if her heart had been very sensible for the Prince. But as Sobieski, though he was but 〈◊〉 of the Crown, pleased her more, and she in some manner acted more out of Complaisance to the Queen than inclination: Her displeasure against Zamoski, who had neither writ to the Queen nor her, had its real source only from the jealousy that Ladies usually have the one for the other, when they are to dispute for the prize of Beauty. The Marchioness had likewise all manner of reason to applaud the Baron's constancy: And as he had extremely well succeeded in his voyage, and that they had made it a point of honour to conclude the marriage of the Prince with Mademoiselle de Schanfield. Casimer whosaw her daily in her apartment, had there several Conferences upon this subject: But well knowing that the Queen would use all manner of means, for the destroying in the Baron's absence all that had been done at Zamosch; it was resolved he should return with all haste, under pretence of thanking the Prince, and of causing him to raise a Regiment: Wherhfore he caused a Commission to be expedited and delivered the nececessary money to the Baron, with whom having concerted how he should address all the Prince's Letters and his own to the King, who gave order to Baluz. Gentleman of his Chamber to receive them, he returned to him again with a very kind answer from Mademoiselle de Schanfield. The King of Sweden during the Sieg of Zamosch, sent Douglas with Troops to besieg Premiflie; but though that City was not in a posture of maintaining a Sieg in the forms, the Burghers were so apprehensive of the Swedish Government, that the they had but simple Walls, they resolved rather to die than to tender the place. They shut up the Women and Children in the Churches, and while that these implored the succours of Heaven, Douglas having passed the River over the Ice to seize on the gate, they repulsed him with so much vigour, that he lost above two hundred men in his attack, and the Ice breaking in his retreat he had many more drowned. Inso much that he returned with much confusion to his Master who was extremely surprised with all these ill successes. Charneski having notice that he caused a Bridge to be made over the Zane, and that a thousand Horse guarded the Carpenters, he advanced with his Troops into a Wood, where he laid two Regiments in Ambuscade. And having sent two others Armed after the Tartarian manner, to charge the Swedes, they engaged them to fight, and by pretending to run away, having drawn them beyond the Ambuscade, the thousand Swedes were defeated, except some few who escaped, the bridge was broken and almost all the baggage taken by Charneski, who retired without having lost more than thirty Troopers.  
The King seeing his Troops daily diminished by diseases, by the rigour of the season, and by all the advantages that Charneski gained, he resolved to retreat and recovered the bank of the Vistule, for the preserving what was left him. Charneski did all he could to draw him into open field that he might endeavour by a Battle to settle the affairs of Casimer upon a good foundation; and to that purpose he attacked him rather like a desperate man than a good Captain. But Charles being not lesle cunning than himself, and whose good fortune begun to diminish, having penetrated his design, employed all his prudence to avoid him, insomuch that he would never quit the River's bank, and all the Swedes who went a stray or could not follow, were cut in pieces without quarter. As the most part of the great Lords ●ad engaged themselves with Charles upon Ragieskies' solicitation, and the others without making reflection that they delivered themselves up to their greatest Enemy, the good successes of Charncski made them justly afraid of being one day punished for it. This made them resolve to return timely to their devoir. Lubomierski Marshal of the Kingdom, Calinski, Broscoski, Alexander Coniespolski, Nicolas Potoski, and Sapieska quitted Charles Party, and joined themselves with their Troops to the brave Charneski. Only George Niemiviez with some of his continued in his Rebellion. It is easy to conceive the extreme perplexity that Charles was in after this desertion. He dissembled his vexation as well as he could, and seeing that it was very dangerous to stay any longer in the field, he retired to the Castle of Rudnie, where Charneski having joined him, there was a very sharp fight. Moore than two thousand Swedes lost their lives, and if the succours Charneski expected had arrived, the King of Sweden had been entirely defeated. He was obliged to make a hasty retreat, not being able to reach Sandomer, where he had a good Garrison. Charneski followed him with the same diligence, he fought him the third time, and it was with inconceivable dangers that Charles got to Warsaw, accompanied by few of his men, and was pursued as far as the Suburb. There run a report that he was killed, and all Europe so positively believed it during some Months, that it was a kind of crime to doubt it. The Queen his Wife was as much alarumed as others and she passed the Sea to learn the certain News of it; and it was of that advantage to Casimer, that his affairs thereupon entirely changed face. General Steembock was before Mariemburg, which had been admirably well defended for six Weeks that the Siege had been form. Baron Spar, Originally a Swede, and whose Father had dwelled in Poland from the time of Sigismond, was Commander of it, with James Veyer and his Brother, they did certainly all that could be expected both from their Conduct and Generosity. But the Ammunition beginning to fail in the place, and the three thousand men that were sent from Dantzick to secure it, being deceived by the Swedes, who under pretext of deserting made them believe the City was taken, which obliged them to retire without expecting further News. Spar seeing he could not hold out any longer, rendered upon an Honourable Composition. This loss though considerable was in some manner repaired the same day. For the Marquis of Baden being informed of the extremity Charles was in, came to his succours with fresh Troops, but was fallowed by Charneski, who immediately defeated three Troops of Horse. The Marquis not being in a Condition to fight him, passed the River de Pilsee over a Bridge designing to get to Warsaw. But Charneski being desirous to engage him, and to take the advantage of his disorder, swum over the River with his men. Baden not being able any longer to avoid it, prepared for sight and hid part of his Cavalry in the Woods. The Battle lasted above two hours, and several were killed on both sides. But infine Baden fled, and Charneski pursued him as far as Warsaw, though above seven leagues thither. The Swedes were almost all cut in pieces, their Canon their baggage and most part of their Colours were took by the Polanders. All these happy successes made Charles know that fortune is not always constant. Charneski recovered with the same vigour Lovitz, an Archiepiscopal See, where the Swedes had much booty. And General Israel having endeavoured to oppose him, he was not more successful than the Marquis, insomuch that Charneski being advanced into Domerella, he took in several small Cities, and sent three Senators to Dantzick to acquaint the Magistrates with these good successes, and the succours that Casimer was preparing. The Queen of Sweden was coming to Prussia. The Danzickers fitted out several Vessels to try to take her, but could not do it. She landed at the Pillaw, where the elector of Brandenburg received her with Honours and Testimonies of very great joy. The King her Husband having something refreshed himself at Warsaw, and given the remnants of his Army to Wittemburg, he went to meet her with Baden, Sulsback and Radzivil, he passed by Elbing, and being arrived at the Pillaw, his presence, his tenderness and all his Caresses made the Queen forget the Pains she had suffered. After having stayed there some time, they returned to Elbing with greater designs than ever of continuing the War.  
Charles to this effect writ to all the Palatines and Polish Lords, who had quitted his Party, to return to their duty, calling them Rebels, and protesting that if within twenty days they acknowledged not their fault, he would never pardon them. And being desirous to repair with his pen what he had lost by his Sword, he writ likewise to the Magistrates of Dantzick, and complained that they would have succoured Mariembourg, and surprise the Queen, though he and his Predecessors had done them several, favours, that however being willing to use Clemency, if they returned to their duty, he would receive them upon favourable conditions, if not they were to expect all the rigour that War permits. But that Letter made not any impression upon their minds, and the Magistrates answered him in few words, that having preserved for two hundred years an inviolable fidelity to the Kings of Poland, nothing was capable of making them abandon King Casimer, upon whom he made War without any reason; That if after having defended themselves like men of honour, the fortune of War should bring them under his Power, they hoped he would treat them better than the other Cities that had not done their Duty. Thomas this answer was not conformable to Charles' sentiments, he could not forbear commending their fidelity; and not being in a condition to reduce them by force, he jest Steemooth before the psace, expecting the Succours that was coming to him from Germany, having joined Wrangel near unto a wood, he was informed that Charneski was on the other side with his Troops, he gave order to the Colonel to attack him, which he did: the Shoque was terrible, and cost several lives. But Charneski seeing the King approach at the head of the rest of the Army, he retreated in good order with the advantage he had won. The Night favoured his Design, and the King being advanced as far as Torn, learned there the extremity his Garrison was reduced to at Warsaw. Casimer who was preparing at Glogow to return into his Kingdom with the succours of the Tartars which he expected, learned likewise there the happy successes of Charneski, with all the joy imaginable; and the Baron de Saint-C●r who was arrived at Zamosch without any danger, having also let him know that the Prince hoped in a little time to join him at the head of two thousand horse, and that he persevered in the design of marrying Mademoiselle de Schanfield, for whom his passion was still the same, one may say that from the time Casimer had quitted his Realm, his mind had never been more agreeably disposed. But the Queen whose admireable penetration made her discover the most secret intriqus, and who was not easily changed, was not long without knowing the true Occasion of the Baron's stay with the Prince; great successes as well as great troubles cannot be well concealed; Mademoiselle de Schanfield was too well pleased, not to let something of it be known, and did not fail to impart it to one of her Companions, whom she believed her friend; and the Queen likewise observing her more strictly than usual, knew at length all that passed. Her promises and civilities having not had that effect upon the Prince she had expected, she changed her Conduct. Count Podelotoski was the Prince's Favourite, and absolutely governed him, wherefore she engaged him to serve her as well by her presents as by his own interest. For having made him comprehend that if the Prince married Mademoiselle de Schanfield, whose wit he was acquainted withal, she would not fail to destroy his favour, and ruin his fortune, for that she would particularly inform herself of all things; whereas Mademoiselle d' Arquiem being a young person of fourteen years old, without any experience of the affairs of the world, if the Prince married her, this Marriage would not only be much more advantageous to him, but he might also continued in the favour his merit had procured him, to which she would contribute on her part, and even augment it if it was possible. And adding to all these considerations great hopes, and that the King was in love with Mademoiselle de Schanfield, which obliged him to wish she was Married with the Prince. There needed no more for the determining the Count to oppose the Baron. In effect from the time the Queen had opened herself to him in that manner, he fought all possible occasions to traverse his designs. And as he had acquired a great familiarity with the Prince, whose affairs he absolutely governed with the same Authority he did his own; Being one day informed that Zamoski and the Baron were together in an Arbour, he went thither in all haste with a resolution of interrupting their discourse, and to begin by something that should make a noise to make his Court to the Queen: But the Arbour door being shut, he knocked so hard that the Prince was angry, and notwithstanding all the kindness he had for this indiscreet Courtier, had like to have discarded him as briskly as he had shown little respect. Yet being a man of wit, and perceiving an alteration in his Master's face; he told him he was to speak to him about an important affair, and having insensibly led him into a shaded Alley far enough from the Arbour, where they had left the Baron, he presented him with an open Letter and prayed him to read it, which he did. But taking notice, that it was addressed to the Baron, and that it had been opened, he took it ill, and with some heat let him know his surprise. Insomuch that he told the Prince that a Soldier of the Garrison had delivered him that Letter, which had been given him by an unknown person, who had retired himself, and observing that mention was made therein of him, he thought his duty obliged him to bring it him in all haste to dispose of it as he should think fit. You had done much better replied the Prince very sharply, to have given it to him to whom it is addressed to, and not to meddle with an others secrets, and not giving the Count time to reply, he returned to the Arbour, where he acquainted the Baron with what had passed in the Alley. As this Letter was from Mademoiselle de Schanfield, and that she therein gave notice to the Baron that the Queen had discovered their secret, that he aught to suspect the Count, and in fine that she apprehended the Prince would abandon her to apply himself wholly to Mademoiselle d' Arquiem. After having read it over together, and looked upon one another for some time without speaking a word; at length the Prince sighing, interrupted their silence, and held this discourse to the Baron: Am not I much to be pitied to love with so much tenderness and sincerity as I do, and yet to be suspected of inconstancy, after having given so many testimonies of my fidelity; and are not we very unhappy, in that our secret is discovered, and that to surprise me, the Queen has engaged the Count to travers what makes all my joy? What you have said, my Lord, (replied the Baron) is so reasonable, that I can only applaud your having so generous sentiments. But if I durst tell you my thoughts, Mademoiselle de Schanfield is not to be blaimed for being in fear of being abandoned, since it is an infallible mark of the esteem she has for you, the Queen is against her, she makes you very advantageous offers: Mademo●selle de Arquiem is young and pretty, and has the honour to belong to her; and the Count promises to make you change the good sentiments you have for her; all this joined together makes her with justice be alarmed: But my Lord, that you may not condemn her of being so too groundlessly, you must know that the Marchioness sends me word, that the Queen has promised the Count a Staroftie of a thousand pound yearly income, for to oblige you to think not more of her; and having spoke these words she shown the Prince the Letter; this news made such an impression upon his mind, that after having been in a great passion against the Count, he resolved not to give credit to any thing he should tell him; and if he had not had the care of the affairs of his Family, he would without doubt have discharged him. He lived for some days with him after a more reserved manner, and purposely avoided all the occasions of being alone that he might not discourse him. But it being impossible to live long in that constraint, because he was to tender him an account of his affairs, this cunning Favourite did not complain of the Prince's indifference, and being in some manner reestablished in his former liberty, in the end he fancied he might succeed in his design. The hopes of a Starosty, and the honour of being the Queen's Confident so sensibly touched him, that he could not forbear intermixing with his affairs something of the Prince's Amours, for the endeavouring to oblige him to explain himself to him: However he did it not, because he would keep them secret till all was regulated for the concluding his marriage. This reservedness augmented his curiosity, and the Queen pressing him to make known to her the state of affairs, he resolved to do his utmost for the satisfying her. The Prince loved hunting very much, and as it was his ordinary Recreation, the Count fancied it might furnish him with a favourable Occasion to discourse him. In the Woods that are near Zamosch, there are seen numbers of Bears, Wild-Boors, and other Beasts of that kind, he ordered the Count to prepare the necessary things for this Divertisement: Wherhfore he assembled two or three thousand Peasants; and having caused the Woods to be surrounded with Nets, as is usually practised in that Country, while the Peasants beaten the Woods, and the Dogs pursued the Beasts, the Count being alone near the Prince in a place the thing aught necessarily to pass thro', seeing him attentive and pensive, I always fancied till now, my Lord, said he to him, that my services were pleasing to you, and I flattered myself to have so well corresponded to the honour you have done me in trusting me with the affairs of most importance, that I believed my fidelity being known to you, you would not conceal from me the sentiments of your heart. But if it was permitted me to complain of my ill fortune rather than of any thing else, have I not reason to believe, that you have not longer the same kindness for me that you have been pleased to honour me with; since that you have not only been very reserved of late in the discourses that necessity obliges me to have with you, and you do not even give me all the time I have occasion for. But if I durst say it, my Lord, I am the last of the Kingdom who knows not that you are going to marry Mademoiselle de Schansield. And you have made to me a mystery of the most important thing of your Life, and wherein I might have given you a great and most sensible mark of my fidelity. Yet in stead of murmuring, Heaven is my Witness that I would never have spoke to you of it, if my honour had not forced me rather to incur your displeasure than to fail telling you, that it is not for your advantage, and that endeavours are used to surprise you in flattering agreeably the passion you have for her, Yes, my Lord, you are played upon, and I have advice from very good hands that the King has a long time loved her, and that he is again beloved. Insomuch that the Queen being jealous, the Baron de Saint-Cir only stays with you for the endeavouring to oblige you to marry her: But, my Lord, if you are resolved to marry, you will found matches at Court, much more worthy and becoming you both by their Birth and Fortune. The Princes of your Family have ever made illustrious Alliances, you aught to follow their Examples for the maintaining your Rank, and if I durst give you Counsels, it would be much more advantageous to think of Mademoiselle de Arquiem; she is younger and more beautiful, and will better comply with your humour, and has likewise the honour to belong to the Queen. In fine you possess her heart without fearing that any other has reigned there before you, and this reason alone should oblige you to prefer her, since you will only have the Person and not the heart of Mademoiselle de Schanfield.  
The end of the first Part.