THE MAIDENHEAD LOST BY Moonlight: OR THE ADVENTURE OF THE MEADOW.  
Written by JOSEPH KEPPLE.  
LONDON, Printed for Nathaniel Brook at the Angel in Cornhill. MDCLXXII.   

TO THE LADIES.  
YOU have in this Romance in Querpo (although I believe having read it, you will allow it a better Title, and at least, swear 'tis pity it was not True) the perfect Representation of the state of Innocence; I don't mean the time when our first Parents, for want of Drapers, made use of Leaves, but the Age that not long after followed; in which Love, which is now made a piece of Art, was Natural; when men's Affections were not biased with the Desire of a great Estate, and without huge heaps of Gold were contented with the innocent lightness of their Mistresses, I mean that Air, Mine and Gaiety they esteemed, and did not as we do, censure their sprightly Gestures, as if Mirth and Honesty were inconsistent. Then how would they have laughed to hear of a Lady, that made her Servant follow the Sent two whole Years, when perhaps she is more in love with the Gallant, than he with her, who in his apish Apprenticeship (for he must be a Slave to her Will) has spent more Money in the Mulberry Garden, and the Parks, than would build an Hospital; has seen more Plays than are good, and been acquainted with all the Coachmen in Town; whose Estate at last being spent Victoria, Victoria, the Day's our own, he at last has vanquished his Mistress' Affections, is married, and with her Portion is just flushed for the visit of another Lady; and than who can blame our Prophetic Gentlewomen? They are like to enjoy little Pleasure, after the Man in black has conjured them together, except to tell how many Rhenish-wine Glasses have been drank in drinking her Health, by the Goodman her Husband, who is now perhaps, lest he should forget his Courtship, paying his Devoirs to new Madam; I know the Ladies having read it (But not for the good of the Bookseller, let us contrive how that may be; why, it is but seeing the Chambermaid to pretend Ignorance, and get the Foot Boyto buy her the new Book of the Maid that was so Blind as to Lose herself in a Moon shine Night, and then convey it to her Lady, who will by the Title, expect it should be horrible Bawdy, when a starched Puritan I think would not groan in Spirit to be called the Owner of it) I say the Ladies that read it will be cursed angry with me, that Myrtilla was so easily gained, and that she did not, like our foolish Females, oppose, what she most desired. For the first I dare oppose her Constancy to any of their Ladyships; and for the other, you shall see I am so much a Gentleman, as to help a young Lady over the Style. I know her Accusers Argument is, that she ought to have taken some time to try her Servants Affection; but pray direct me to that foolish Fop (and I'll procure him a Mistress of Clouts, for he deserves no better) who when he is wooing, will offer to be deficient in his Duty, that will quarrel at an angry look, and will threaten to bang her if she will not say she loves, which is as ridiculous to think, as that a lame Beggar should Hector out an Alms. For my part, I think our Myrtilla is to be commended for her Policy, she does by this oblige her Lover, and he must belly the shape of a man, and be worse than a Devil, that will wrong a Lady that so confidently commits her Honour to his keeping. Well, however the Lady's quarrel at me and Myrtilla, Circe and I shall be sure to scape with the Chambermaids, their good hearts will only envy a little her fortune, and it may be say their Prayers every Night, and lie crosslegged in expectation of the like.  
It is now fit to tell you why I undertook this harmless piece of Mirth, which was for this Reason; I saw how well one Story out of the same Author took, being turned into English, that is out of the incomparable Erycius Puteanus, and thinking this no way inferior to it in itself, having nothing to do, I adventured upon the Translation of it. I confess it comes so short of the Pen of that ingenious person that wrote the other, that fear I have done the witty Italian an unpardonable Injury in daring to render it so pitifully. But to excuse him of all those faults my Translation may make him seem guilty of, I assure you the  are my own; If you ask why I made 'em no better, I assure you I could not, 'twas done for the aforesaid Reason to avoid idleness, and then I think I am a little more excusable, than the person that having nothing to do, went and hired in the Market a Drudgery at the expense of a great Sum. If I have offended the Ladies, I beg their pardon, and assure them that I am their  
Humble Servant, J. K.   

THE MAIDENHEAD LOST BY Moonlight. OR, The Adventure of the Meadow.  
MY little Skill in Geography will not let me give you any better Account, then that in part of the Dominions of the great Comus, dwelled a young Gentleman, by Name Cherestratus; I shall not trouble myself nor you with a tedious Relation of his Ancestors, and how many of them were Lord Mayors; but I am something like a Woman, and now I think, on't can't but tell you that one of them was hanged, which I had not done, but that I thought it would not be any disparagement to him, who was so well accomplished, that his first actions had quitted the disgrace had they all suffered the like fate; He was not at all behind hand with the Gallants of these times, either for Learning or Valour, besides Singing, and composing of Madrigals, which seemed in those days to have been in great use; for the Ladies being not over coy, were not so great Enemies to the Progress of Music, as to deny themselves or Servant the pleasure of an early Serenade, which the next day was rewarded with some signal favour, except the Lady so courted had been waked out of some pleasant Dream, and then too she durst hardly chide, for fear left being out with the men (who where chief concerned in the Comedy) her Dream should prove but a Dream, and she should never be made happy with the Reality. Besides this, he could Dance incomparably well, by which the Ladies might guess he had not been under the Surgeon's hands, nor had much skill in Maiden heads (a thing very much to be deplored in our days, for our Gallants not finding the first night what they look for (but they are fools that do) seldom continue Loving above the first Month; and seem not so much to be married as to keep a Mistress with a little more Ceremony. I am loath to tell you that with these Perfections he was rich, for I would be unwilling to put in any thing that might make you suspect the truth of this Relation, and I am sure you will never believe, that a person so well accomplished, and of a sufficient Estate should find so cruel a Lady, as not to admit of his Addresses. But you must consider the time which according to the best Chronologers was in Tiresias' days, and the women would not deny his Doctrine, viz. That they take as much pleasure or more in doing the Gentleman a good turn▪ than the person that received it, This made the Ladies then, contrary to what they are now a days, count it an unpardonable Sin to take a Reward for their mutual pleasures, and this made Cherestratus not prove so successful in his Amours, as he might have done had he lived now.  
But to come to the Story, it was the unhappiness of this incomparable Gallant, to place his Affection on a Person that disdained his frequent Suits, which she did with a kind of Reluctancy, for she herself nor any body else could tell why she would not let him pay his Devoirs to her, as well as any other Gallant of the Town, to whom he was no way inferior. But the mysteries of Love are as blind as himself, whose hidden Causes can never be understood, and I should rather be content to be kept in ignorance, then endeavour of a discovery of Medea's Video meliora proboque, Deteriora sequor. However the Lady continued very obstinate, whether because she was prepossessed with the Love of Hyleus (Rival only in Love to our noble Cherestratus, for, for other things he could not stand in competition with him) or for some other Reason, I know not. For I do not think that the comparing of a lady's Favours to Shadows always holds true, for then Hyleus had been as unhappy as our unfortunate Gentleman, who plied his Business as hotly as Cherestratus could possibly do.  
By this time Cherestratus was grown a perfect Votary of Love, which made him like the rest of that mad Religion abandon the society of men, and endeavouring as it were to be free from himself, he would often be singing some lamentable Ditty, of which he had store, but above all, this was the chief: 
Whatever I think or whatever I do,  
My Phillis is still in my mind:  
When in anger I mean not to Phillis to go  
My feet of themselves the way find, etc.   
Now you'll say this is very like a modern Song of ours, but I assure you what follows, could I but remember it, was not at all like it, and it was only by chance, that he thought of the first Stave, for it is certain there are common notions, which are obvious to all that make upon the same Subject. In hitting on which some have been so happy, that they have wrote whole Poems, and things of greater bulk so like other men, that if compared, it was not easily told which was which. But let this pass, sometimes you should have our Inamorato under the reverend shade of a well spread Oak, beseeching its senseless Divinity to give him leave to inscribe the Name of his dear Myrtilla there (for so was the hardhearted Lady called,) and then taking out a Pen Knife, which had never been put to any servile office, as cutting of Corns, or the like, he engraves on the bark with flourishing Letters, which searce a Writing Master in those parts could mend, the Name of his Saint. This done like a mere heathenish Gentleman he falls down, and worships the work of his own hands; then with a tedious Harangue he twits the poor Tree in the teeth of the benefit he had done it, saying that it should be now more famous for bearing the Name of the incomparable Myrtilla, than it was for Jupiter, and that were not corn yet found out, he might not at all fear a rape of his ripe Acorns, for as soon as people came, and saw those Letters, rapt up in admiration, they would forget to eat, and with fixed eyes gaze till some envious Dryads forced 'em from their Devotion. Besides these works of supererogation, our Gallant (which was the only comfort he had) was almost continually walking by the door of the cruel Lady, whom he seemed to watch or rather guard with as much diligence, as Argus did Io, or the mortified Ghost of some lately departed Usurer his musty bags, but yet he durst not (as being forbid by his Mistress, and fearing to displease her) hang Garlands at her Posts so artificially woven with Enigmatical Flowers, that she might there read his fervent affection. This and several other Love-tricks that the Youths of those times used, to accomplish their wishes, he was forced to forbear.  
His Friends by this began to have small hopes of his Estate, or Legacies; for his not eating nor drinking any thing, made them suspect he was grown immortal. Amongst the rest of his acquaintance one Paneutus a Yeoman i'th' Country some ten miles of the City where our pining Lover now was, hearing of the deplorable condition his Friend lay in, and being himself a boon Companion, did not doubt, but if he could get him into the Country, he could make him quit his humour. To effect which he wrote this Letter.  
Paneutus to his Cherestratus.  
SIR,  
RAther than suspect your wisdom, I must needs think, that the Lady, which hath brought you into the sad condition I hear you are in, must needs be one of so divine a Beauty, that she would make Cato in love with her, and convert the severest Woman-hater. However, I am so far Interested in you, as my second self, that knowing a Remedy, I could not but prescribe it you, which being followed will either make you happy with your Love, or without it. Your City Air will something obstruct the Cure, and hinder your Physic from working. If therefore you will accept of my House, you know you may command  
Paneutus.  
This Letter in Cherestratus' absence, arrived at his City House, who was just now gone, as his custom was, to take a view of his Lady's Lodgings, which he did so eagerly, that he had like to have paid for his gaping. For some of the Neighbours observing him how narrowly he eyed the House, thinking he had some bad design, acquainted the old Gentlewoman, Mother to the young Lady; who could hardly be persuaded from carrying our Gallant before the Justice, to which her Daughter encouraged her, which went to the very heart of Cherestratus, for she knew well enough though she seemed ignorant of the cause. But the old Lady, having no witness to prove any thing, dismissed him, with a severe charge never to trouble her door again. What remains now to the desperate Lover, but to make away with himself, and fall a Sacrifice to her disdain? which certainly he had done, had not his hasty desire to visit Myrtilla's House made him forget to put on his Shash, that morning. A thousand miserable thoughts offered themselves to him in his way home, whither he was no sooner come, but throwing himself upon his Bed, he began to bewail his hard fortune, with tears and sighs. Scarce had he begun his Soliloquy, but his Servant came into the Room, and presented him with the Letter; which having read, and taking a turn or two in the Chamber, the reflecting on his Lady's incivilities made him resolve to accept his Friend's Offer. To which end settling his Household Affairs, he commands all things to be made ready for his next days intended Journey, which accordingly he took, wisely choosing rather to ride a mile about, then to come by Myrtilla's House, by which he should have passed; being safe come to his journey's end we will leave him with his merry Friend Paneutus, who entertained him with all the kindness imaginable, always endeavouring his diversion with some pastime, as Hawking, Hunting, and the like, and return to Myrtilla, whose Mother you must know, knowing what care and caution is to be used over young Maids, made the Daughter grow weary of her Government, counting it too severe, as depriving her of those Pleasures that young Ladies would willingly accept of. For her Mother keeping a Dairy would often set her to make Butter and Cheese for fear of the green Sickness, which he knew how to cure as well as any Doctor in Europe, had her Mother been as willing as she, whereas she had rather have been reading of some brisk Romance, or Story of the strange Metamorphosis of a Maid into a Woman. Besides her Mother began now to oppose Hyleus' Visits, the only comfort her Daughter had, for she being a pretty while in her Teens, had the same desire as all her Contemporaries had, to mind nothing but the end for which they were made, which caused her, encouraged by her Mother's rigour, to think on some way to obtain her desires, and free herself from the old Lady's Tyranny, which was very much increased since the death of her Husband, to whose Education he left his Girl Myrtilla.  
Long you may imagine she had not studied before she found out a Plot (for Woman's Wits on such occasions are very quick, and for my part I believe that had not Jupiter quickly put in Execution his golden Project, Danae for all the Tower would have found the way to his Embraces:) well a Plot is now found, which was this, to venture her Maidenhead into Hyleus' hands, rather than endure the slavery she was in. This she resolved to put in practice, and contrary to a Woman, kept constant too. But she saw no way of effecting it without making some body privy to it, and then she thought no one fit than her Maid Circe, a loving Girl, and wellwisher to Gentlemen, for before she happened into her Mistress' Service, she waited on a Lady, and like the rest of that trade, very often chose before her Mistress, otherwise she would not speak a good word for a Gallant. Myrtilla's Mother being called to a Woman's Labour, she thought it a very fit time to communicate her Design to her Maid. Where upon coming down to look for Circe she found her in the Garden tumbling on a Camomile bed, lying on her back a Stargazing, but seeing her young Mistress starting up she quickly quitted that posture, and asked her if she had any service to command her. Ah Circe (said she sighing) I have, could I but be assured of thy Secrecy. Of mine, Madam? (replied Circe) why, there be a great many Gallants in Town, would be Surety for me if need required. Why, 'tis the only thing I am good for. Why then (said Myrtilla sitting down with her Maid) you must needs have observed how my Mother pries into all my Actions, debarring me of all I take delight in. I have now thought how to mend this, wouldst thou consent to aid and assist me. Circe, who now thought she should get an opportunity to be revenged on her old Mistress for making her rise so early, not admitting of her Sweethearts company, and hindering her from wearing her best Clothes, and going to Church a Sunday (for let me tell you Preaching is of very old standing) made all Protestations possible to give her Mistress a good opinion of her Secrecy, which Myrtilla, being put to a straight, soon believed, and asked her what she thought of running away with Hyleus, without her Mother's consent. To which Circe answered, I believe he is an honest Gentleman, and were it to me I should take his word; now all the difficulty will be to make him acquainted with the Design. For that too (cries Myrtilla) I've contrived, and now my Mother's out of the way thou shalt be the happy Messenger to inform my dear Hyleus of mine Intent. I am certain he will gladly embrace the opportunity, which I would never have given him, but that I'm confident his Honour will not let him slain mine. Mad Circe would have taken up her Mistress, but the short time she had, fearing her Mother's return, would not let Myrtila admit of her fooling. Take here said she, this Jewel (in which was neatly wrought in Diamonds) the Story of the Rape of Proserpina by Pluto, (and you cannot imagine Hyleus so much a fool as not at first sight to understand the Hieroglyphic) which I have got wrought on purpose. Deliver it to him as a token of my Affection (dear Creature) and tell him I shall with impatience expect his coming to fetch me away at Night. Circe, who was not a stranger to these Love Embassies, willingly applied herself to her Task immediately, took her Pattens and away to Hyleus, who was not at home just when she came, but the Servants told her he would be presently. It was the Butler's fortune to see her first, who seeing her young and handsome, could not but offer the Civility of the Cellar. Circe was very willing to accept his offer, the weather being hot, and having come a good way, she took off her Liquor, that the Butler began to conceive some hopes from the effect of the Drink. But they were scarce acquainted, when Hyleus came in from Fishing, and presently Circe delivered her message very diligently, and if I am not very much mistaken, 'twas just thus: Sir, my Lady, Madam Myrtilla, by me acquaints you she hath hitherto endeavoured to find out the means of rewarding your Affection and constancy, which you may assure yourself had been done before this, but that the old Gentlewoman her Mother hath such an aversion to any thing that she hath an inclination for, and seeing there is no way to quit scores with you but by running away, she doth this night intent to make herself happy with your good company, and for a token of her Love she hath sent you this Jewel, and desires you not to fail waiting for her with a Horse, at her Mother's door, where you may privately carry away your own Myrtilla.  
This unexpected News was extremely surprising to Hyleus, who before was much fretted with the sport he but just now came from, for his ill success in it. And is it so then, ye kind Deities (cried he out) that my Myrtilla will thus freely put herself into my hands. I should never deserve any success in my Love, should I neglect this happiness. Nor am I one of those foolish foppish Lovers, who having laid siege to a Lady's Affections, then begin to throw of all respect, when she gins to throw off all her cruelty, and when she is coming to answer their expectations. Then turning to Circe, Assure the divine Myrtylla from me, I will not fail to expect her, and am only sorry that she ordered nothing more difficult, that she might see my Love in daring to compass it; take this (continued he giving her a Piece, and then kissing her) and carry this Kiss to thy Mistress, and assure her again I will not fail.  
With this Answer departed Circe, who was got home before she was ware, who was extremely taketh with Hyleus, and thinking on the Token she had for Myrtilla, whom she now began to envy, and long as much for the forbidden fruit as her Mistress; coming to Myrtilla, she told her the good success of her Message, and how effectually it had wrought upon the Heart of Hyleus, who would not fail two hours after Sunset; this done she entered on the not unpleasant Panegyric of the expected Gentleman. The ill connection of it, as all other Chambermaids discourses, makes me I can't remember it, only this I am sure was in it, that he was a fine proper Man, handsome Leg'd, and she'd warrant as good a Woman's Man as any in the Shire. But the old Lady coming home made her unwillingly break off her Discourse.  
Hyleus by this time had got all things in readiness for his Love-adventure, and setting out with two Servants he had towards the City, which was about three miles from his House, his great desire of the Prey made him there something of the soon, which he had not been, but that Myrtilla and Circe were at difference; for her Mistress could not persuade her to stay behind, if she went, although she urged the unlikeliness of their Escape together, however she would not be contented till she had promised to send one of Hyleus' Servants for her.  
Now we are forced to a small digression, to make you acquainted that the Country and all its Sports, with all the persuasions of his Friend Paneutus, could not make Cherestratus leave off thinking on his Mistress, and it so happened that his Friend being engaged in some Business, our melancholy Lover being left to himself, who was now taking a turn in the Garden, began to recollect his former Affection, one while chiding himself for spending so long a time in a vain pursuit; another while angry with himself for leaving off now, when he was so far engaged, and then a few musty Apothegms got in his Head, viz. Maids say No, and take it, etc. he resolves to renew the Onset, for which he could not have met with a convenienter time, Paneutus being out of the way, for had he been at home, he could not have been brought to have parted with Cherestratus, whose company he took very much delight in: This being resolved on, he marched to the Stable, and charges the Groom immediately to make ready his Gelding, under pretence of breathing him that Evening, and indeed so he did, for in half an hour and two minutes, he reached the door of his dearly belov'd Myrtilla.  
Hyleus you must know, thinking he had been too soon, had taken a turn down to view the Castle, thinking immediately to come back, and indeed it was not long  he did, but however this is the critical minute, when out came Myrtilla in a riding Dress, making signs of dispatch to Cherestratus, who was staring on the Windows as he used to do, not dreaming what good luck was approaching him; Make haste, make hast my Dear (cries the kind Lady) my Mother else will be here immediately. Our Gallant could scarce believe his Eyes or Ears, and thought certainly he was a dreaming, for he could never hope for such a happiness as to have his cruel Lady submit herself to him; but he now began to smell out the Plot, and without more ado helped the Lady up, who had not as yet discerned the mistake. Having got his rich Prize behind him, he thought it not safe to tarry there long, wherefore spurring on his free Beast, away he rides, and met with no obstacle, for the City gates were kept open for Hyleus, by the appointment of the Servants, who had bribed the Watchmen (for you may assure yourself in Comus' City, they keep very good Hours, although the Citizens are commonly scandalised for Revelling, or letting their Wives tarry up longer than themselves.)  
Hyleus was now returned back to Myrtilla's Door, to which he was no sooner come, but he heard all the House in an uproar; for it seems the old Lady had missed her Daughter, and began to guess at the Business, for which she was schooling Circe most bitterly, who being in her riding Clothes, expecting Hyleus' man, could not possibly frame any thing like an Excuse, at which her Mistress was so enraged, she began to seek for something to chastise the poor Maid. Circe therefore seeing her scarce avoidable Doom, runs out pulling the door after her, which hindered her Executioners pursuit. Hyleus who had been all this while in an Agony for his Lady, to think what would become of her, seeing Circe escaping out so boldly, and taking her for Myrtilla, lights straight off his Horse to help her up, which done, away he rides. He was no sooner got through the City Gate, but his Servants that accompanied him thither, came out to congratulate his good fortune, he was so overjoyed with his Booty, he could scarce find time to thank them, making homewards with all the speed imaginable. Wither he was scarce come, when by his order three Maids met them strowing Flowers all the way home, while others there were busied in providing the Cake and Sack-Posset; at the Gate stood a proper Gentleman Usher to take down the Lady, Madam Chambermaid; that done, off leaps Hyleus to salute her, and bid her welcome to her Own.  
And now at last it was that the miserable man perceived his Error, but he was wonderfully surprised to see Circe, where he expected Myrtilla, he began now to consider how improbable it was, that she should give herself up to him so easily, and now concludes it was a Plot of Circe's, to whom he addresses himself to be cleared of the doubt. And is it thus, base Slut, thou hast abused me, and thy Mistress? was it for your embraces I have taken all this pains and care? were the numerous Pages about Town, that used to accompany their Masters to visit my dear Myrtilla, grown so scarce, that I must be made a Property? I wonder thy impudence could ever harbour such a thought, so prejudicious to thy Lady, as to think I was reserved for thy tooth; how cam'st thou by this Jewel, which I am confident belonged once to Myrtilla? For none sure would buy thy favour at the vast expense of so rich a Diamond? He would have gone on in his tedious Harangue, but being always kind hearted to Females, he began to consider how unmanly it was to quarrel with a Woman, and for a fault Love had made her commit. However, his passion proceeded so far that he called her Whore: Poor Circe who all this while stood shivering for fear (though it seemed to her a pleasant pain, being in the company of her sweet Hyleus) was something moved at the last word, which made a deeper impression on her mind, than all had passed before (for though I will not swear for her, yet I think she was honest) she makes him this Answer. My kindness in helping young Gentlemen in Addresses to my Lady, could never deserve that name. No, no, Sir, you have here no Whore, nor one that had any designs upon you, but what were innocent and devoted to the Service of my young Mistress. I will not indeed so far belly my Conscience, as to deny I loved you; but I was so far from promoting my love, that I quite despaired of it; and therefore resolved to be happy in the next degree, namely, in mediating with you for my Mistress. The desire of following her hath thus betrayed me to your censure. And is Myrtilla gone before, then? said Hyleus; Yes Sir, answered Circe, she is, and had not your Passion transported you, you might  this have been in a Capacity of recovering my Lady, who cannot be gone far.  
Circe's Answer you'll say was very excusable, and indeed Hyleus could not but approve of it, although anger for his ravished Mistress would not let him at present acknowledge it. For he immediately commanded his Horses to be brought out of the Stable again, but hold, I think they were not yet put in, and with his other Fellow Travellers like a Knight Errand, resolves to go to rescue the Lady, leaving poor Circe again to the mercy of the Butler, who was now resolved to try the utmost strength of his strong Beer Philter on the weak Virgin. But she, contrary to his expectation, seemed more coy, as having more hopes than ever of marrying Hyleus, in case her Mistress could not be found out. But we must be found as uncivil as Hyleus, and leave her to the Butlers managing, and mad he to his Progress, and return to Cherestratus:  
Who by this being ten miles out of Town, was impatient to see and salute his sweet Prey, whose Maiden-modesty not suffering her to speak first, very much wondered at her silent Lover. They were scarce gone a quarter of a mile further; but the transparent Rays of the bright Queen of Night (a rare expression for Moon shine this same) made discovery of a delicate pleasant Meadow, which lay just by the Road-side. Cherestratus could not for his life pass by this opportunity, he light and gently taking Myrtilla off the Horse, began the amorous Prologue with a Kiss. That done, Madam, said he, how happy have you made the late miserable Cherestratus! At the name of Cherestratus, Myrtilla started, and looking upon him seriously, knew him to be the person named. The poor Lady was so extremely troubled at this unexpected Accident, that she swooned away in Cherestratus' Arms, and truly me thinks it was ominous, for ever since that night the Lady was troubled with Qualms. But I fear I shall be censured for playing thus with a Gentlewoman's misfortunes; all I have to excuse it is, that knowing the the fifth Act of the Play and how they came off, it is pardonable to be merry, and laugh before as she did after sufficiently.  
Cherestratus you may imagine was in a sweet kind of taking to think that he had lost his Mistress before he had her (which was true enough, if you can make it out) besides a Constable and a grave ignorant Jury came in his head, for some might think he had killed her, besides the plaguy fear of being wrote against, like Philaster for being the death of his pretty Miss. All this considered, the poor man was extremely put to his shifts, what to do. And though men say our wits are best in cases of necessity, he at present could not think of a better Remedy, than Hudibras', so that he was forced to give her a gentle twinge o'th' Nose, for Water in that place there was none, nor any thing else that might conduce to the recovering of a Lady out of that sad condition. Myrtilla by this was something come again to herself, and gave Cherestratus some small hopes of her, to whom in a lamentable tone she said. By what Magic, Villian, hast thou deprived me of the company of my dear Hyleus? who were he but present, would teach you better manners, then to lie Eavesdropping thus, to betray the secrets of miserable Lovers. But alas, why blame I you? It was my own rashness, for which I am justly punished, since I could not distinguish betwixt the Worthy Hyleus and the base Cherestratus. Our Gallant, that thought himself well enough to pass, as never having a Rupture, or any thing else that might reduce him to the using the Wedding Ring the wrong way, in case Art had conquered Nature, could not endure to hear Myrtilla prefer Hyleus so much before him, and was going to vindicate himself when thus she continued. O my unhappy Fate! have I for this proved disobedient, and left my old Mother? to fall into the hands of him I so much hated, who is in pretence only a Lover? if it be not so as I say, prove your Affection, and redeem your fault by killing the miserable Myrtilla. Faintly he thought she spoke, for all the while— stay, I think there was no smile in the case; however Cherestratus who came communi Animantium appetitu, did not care to satisfy his Lady in that point, and had rather get the King a Soldier, then lose him a Subject, for Ladies do good Service. No, Madam, said he, that were to injure you, and rob myself of the greatest happiness in the world. Your misfortunes are not such, as to make you boldly wish for Death, that  to all Ladies. 'Tis time enough for it yet, you have no reason to think on't, being in the hands of a Person, of whose incivility you never yet had any proof. I cannot imagine you are really angry, when if you are pleased to remember I took you up in a ready Dress for the March, as if you as well as Heaven were willing to make me happy. For doubtless, Madam, it was not by mere chance, I left my Friend in the Country at so unseasonable time of Night to come and visit your door, where unlooked for, my good Genius had prepared me a sight of my divine Myrtilla. No, no, the Powers above, whose will we ought not to resist, ordained this, to see how happy they could make a mortal Man by the presence of a person so nigh their Divinities, as your incomparable self. This done, he put his Handkerchief to his Eyes, and used such comforting expressions to the Lady, that they dissipated her clouds of Sorrows. Her Eyes shot such lustre, that the Moon with all the noise of Brass Pots and Kettles that could be rung out feared an Eclipse. To be short, she seemed so well satisfied, that Cherestratus tying his Horse to a Tree, did not much offend her, in desiring her to repose herself on a neighbouring Bank. They were no sooner sat down, but our Gallant began before his Mistress to admire the works of Nature in that pleasant place, in whose commendations he insisted so far, that soon after he forced her to yield to some Arguments he brought. He showed her all the pretty Sceletons, the fair Flowers I mean, that once were Bodies of young Men and Ladies, and turned into that fading condition for denying their Admirers some small Courtesy or other. He might have gone on longer, for seriously the place was so pleasant that it is impossible to imagine any thing beyond it in natural Bravery. Adonis' Garden, and whatever Antiquity hath made famous for Pleasures, could not reach it. I would have striven for a little Poetry, but that at present I I am not in the Humour, but if I make a modern Poet of ours describe it better than perhaps I should have done, I suppose 'tis all one.  

NAture is wanton here, and the high way  
Seemed to be private, though it open lay,  
As if some swelling Lawyer for his health,  
Or frantic Usurer to tame his wealth,  
Had chosen out ten miles— to try  
Two great effects of Art and Industry.  
The ground they trod, was Meadow fertile land,  
New trimmed and levelled by the Mower's hand,  
Above it grew a Rock, rude, steep and high,  
Which claims a kind of Reverence from the Eye,  
Betwixt 'em both there glides a lovely stream  
Not loud but swift. Meander was a Theme  
Crooked and rough, but had the Poets seen  
Straight and even (for I have forgot the name) it had immortal been,  
This side the open Plain admits the Sun,  
To half the River then did Silver run:  
The other half ran clouds, where the curled Wood  
With his exalted head threatened the flood, etc.   
They had not been in this delightful Scene long, but Cherestratus found his Lady's mind to sympathise with the pleasantness of the place, which so revived on a sudden her drooping Spirits, that she seemed so brisk, airy and gay, as gave our Gallant good hopes that the thoughts of Hyleus were removed, and that she had no small Affection for him, who was now musing how to compass the great design, for the obtaining which he thought nothing more efficacious, than the disparagement of Hyleus, his Rival. Madam, cries he, you cannot now but be satisfied how noble all my actions have been to you, far beyond Hyleus', by whose unpardonable neglect I have now the happiness of seeing my dear Myrtilla. Lovers, Lady, are seldom slow when invited by their Mistresses, which makes me confident Hyleus had only an intent to abuse and disgrace you, who had not the hours above sent me to that happy Station, your door, had been exposed to the censure of the Neighbours, besides the Anger you might have incurred from the old Gentlewoman your Mother. Ungrateful man, that could disesteem so great an obligation!  
These words so wrought upon her, that she became more obliging than before, so that she very complaisantly rendered thanks to her Lover for his true Affection, and vowed she would never have an esteem for his Rival, which was all the recompense she could make him. No, Madam, (replied Cherestratus) if I have deserved any thing of you, you may soon think of a better way of rewarding your Lover; who for all those favours he saw you daily heap on the unworthy Hyleus, could not diminish his Affections to you, which must now be rewarded, or he will sacrifice his miserable life before you. Then taking out a true Bilbo blade, that had never killed a man yet, and therefore wanted seasoning, he set it to his Breast, and desired his Sentence. The tenderhearted Lady that but just now desired to die herself could not endure to see her Lover fall a Victim at her feet, and resolved to withstand manslaughter, said. Hold, Sir, your case is not so desperate, nor I hope your love for me so little, as to kill him I esteem, thyself I mean, my dear Cherestratus. And assure yourself, that you or no man, shall be the Person that shall make me happy. Our young Gentleman could not have desired a more satisfactory Answer from his Lady, to whom (putting up his naked tool) he replied. Then, Madam, assure yourself, you have bestowed your favours on one that will study to deserve them, while the careless Hyleus shall die with envy at my good fortune: After the Peace thus concluded between both parties, there passed many amorous Dialogues, all which were begun and ended with a sweet Kiss.  
Myrtilla you must understand, whether enticed by his pretty discourse, or moved with an equal desire, seemed extraordinary loving, so that Cherestratus could not but put forward, had he been less modest than he was. At my first view I was extremely amazed, for, but that I had seen the Moon with all her twinkling Attendance, I should have sworn I saw the Lady Aurora in one of her richest Vermilion Suits. For it seems something that Cherestratus had said in her Ear, had died her Cheeks with a Rosy blush. I expected now she should have rattled him sound, but it seems she was not so angry as I took her for: They continued their Discourse for some time, which though I could not hear; I soon perceived it was no Treason they spoke; for soon after I saw Myrtilla with small reluctancy receive a Green Gown from her lusty Lover, who was now preparing to make his Lady amends to the utmost of his power for her former Favours. We will leave 'em in mutual Embraces, and instead of an Epithalamium (for I am loath to be idle) make an Apology for their not staying the Parson's leisure. To which these grave Reasons induce them.  
First, Here the Bridegroom is sure next morning to have all his Ribbons upon his Breeches.  
Secondly, The Bride, or the Woman lay with, will not be at a loss to find her Stockings, which at Ceremonious Weddings are thrown over her Head, nor will her Pins be lost to dress her with.  
Thirdly, While they lie on the Grass, they need not fear cutting the Bed-cords, or sowing the Sheets together.  
Fourthly, There can be no Bell under their Bed, unless a natural Blew-Bell.  
Fifthly, The Lady need not be put to the blush the next morning by a company of her Chronies with ask her how she does, and how she likes it.  
Sixthly and lastly, No troublesome crowd of Fiddlers betimes in the morning, to spoil better sport with their miserable scraping. For these and some other Reasons, our Lovers may deserve your pardon, which I question not but you will give them without petitioning for.  
Cherestratus now began to fail in his vigour, and was sounding a Retreat in a whole Volley of Kisses, which she returned very willingly, as being now conscious of the Obligation she had to him. And then they settled themselves for a gentle Repose, which they did in so sweet a posture, she infolding his Neck in her delicate Arms, that they seemed like Cynthia and her belov'd Endymion, whose soft Embraces she so oft courted. They had not lain long thus, but a sweet Sleep seized them both, in which they dreamed over again what they had just now been the real partakers of. Where we will leave them to their natural Rest, and return to Hyleus and his three Companions, who just now unfortunately arrived at this Scene of Love, whither they were no sooner arrived, but Hyleus spied out the Pair of Lovers in that loving Condition, that I described them in.  
Hyleus was enraged to see his Myrtilla as it were with her own Consent given up to another. He immediately draws his Rapier, and swears most damnably that he will be the death of Cherestratus, as in effect he had, but that those who accompanied him, having a kindness for his happy Rival, persuaded him to desist from his purpose, at least they told him he ought to stay till he waked, for than he might force him nobly either to resign up his Life, or his Mistress, supposing he had forced her against her Will (as the loving posture they were in, was proof enough to the contrary) for otherwise, it was not worth the while. Well, with much ado, Hyleus was at last persuaded to stay till he waked, but then he swore to be revenged on him.  
Hereupon for this purpose lighting off their Horses, they all sat down by our sleeping Lovers; It had been you'll say, a great temptation to his fellow Travellers to lie by so handsome a Lady, but being weary with accompanying their Master in his wild pursuit, they thus seemed with him rather to have a desire to sleep, than any thing else; they strove indeed a great while against the drowsy Distemper, but Morpheus at last arrested them, in the King's name, and charged them to keep the Peace, which they had broken with their loud Jangling.  
They had not been long under the Leaden Sceptered Gentieman's hands, but the two Lovers awaked very much troubled to see any Company there, but much more when they knew them to be Hyleus and his men. Cherestratus bid his Myrtilla not be afraid, but prepare for her Journey, by which he doubted not, but they should escape the Enemy, which Myrtilla as much now endeavoured to avoid, as not long before she coveted the Sight of Hyleus. Cherestratus that had before learned of Myrtilla, that Hyleus had received a rich Diamond of her, which was to be worn in his Hat, was unwilling to leave that Token of his Ladies former Affection behind him, wherefore he advanced towards Hyleus, and did without any difficulty find out the Jewel by the extreme lustre of it. Having got this, he and Myrtilla march with full speed together towards his Friend's House, with whom he had lodged being invited, the honest trusty Soul Paneutus.  
They had not been long gone, but Hyleus and his men awake, and find the Pair of Lovers gone, to the satisfaction of all but Hyleus, who was so much troubled at their escape, that they had much ado to keep him from laying violent hands on himself, but his rage was very much increased when he saw the Jewel was gone too, and now he resolves to pursue Cherestratus, not as a Rival only, but as a professed Enemy. The Servants did all they could to pacify their furious Master, telling him he ought not to be so incensed against Cherestratus, since he had done nothing but what a Lover in the like case would have done, and that doubtless it was not his fault, but Myrtilla either by her free consent, or the treachery of Circe, that loved him herself, had delivered her up to him. And that since 'twas so, he ought not to despise the innocent flames of pretty Circe, who excepting her Birth, seemed altogether as worthy his Bed, as the scornful, faithless Myrtilla. What though she sent that Diamond, yet Circe brought it, by whom he might reckon it given too, seeing there was no Remedy left, and there appeared not the least hopes of overtaking the happy couple.  
Hyleus' passion was now pretty well over, when he took Horse for Home, intending to follow his Servants Counsel, and make poor Circe happy, who all this while was crying, and deploring her condition. As soon as he came in, he called for her, and with a Kiss told her, his Intention was to marry her that Night, telling her the mad Adventures of his rash Journey. Circe you may easily imagine, was very well pleased to hear her Mistress had sped so well, and that she was now to enjoy her belov'd Hyleus. Hyleus immediately sent for the man in Black, and gave order for making ready that very Night for the Wedding, which was done with all speed, and they two huddled to Bed together, for better for worse, where I suppose they had as much satisfaction of one another, as Cherestratus and Myrtilla did before, besides the advantage they had of a softer Bed.  
The next day early, Hyleus sent to bespeak the Wedding Dinner five miles off, where also Cherestratus with his Lady were that day to be merry together; and as good luck would have it, they were in the next Room to one another, though neither Company knew of it, till about Dinner time. Myrtilla hearing Hyleus' Voice in the next Room, swooned, Cherestratus and all his Company wondered at the suddeness of her sickness, and suspected there was something in it more than ordinary; and as soon as she came to herself again, she told them the Reason, viz. That she heard Hyleus, and feared lest he should know of Cherestratus, and there might some mischief be done. They cheered her up, and told her there was no fear of any such thing, especially in that place. While they were comforting Myrtilla, a Gentleman that was equally a Friend to both of them, ran to tell Hyleus, having first engaged him to be civil, since things could not be altered. Hyleus was at first surprised, but then one glance of Circe's dispelled his anger, and he was resolved to join Companies, which he presently did, to the satisfaction of both Parties. Where I'll leave them drinking their Lady's Healths, besides some odd Brushers to the little Country Gentleman, or Myrtilla's Hans en Kelder.  
FINIS.