CHAP. I.

THe time being then come, that Belca­rin king Frisols sonne should receiue the order ofknighthood, hee humblie besought the Emperour to knight him with his owne hand: the like re­quest made yong Tiraquell, sonne to duke Eustace, of Micene, who desired likewise the honor ofthe same order: which the good Prince graciously graunted, foreséeing how worthily on them knighthood would be employed. Therfore after obseruation ofthe Uigill, as the vse was, on the Mon­day morning next after Easter day, hée armed them both knights with great magnificence, beséeching God of his goodnesse, to make them of that valour which should neuer [Page 2] degenerate from their auncesters: Belcarin especially, to whom with a louing kisse on his chéek he began thus. Deare nephew, I pray our Soueraigne aboue, to accomplish in you the per [...]ection of all noble vertues, that euerie one may say, you are sonne to the good knight Frisol, no lesse hardie and val [...]r [...]us, then anie whosoeuer bore Armes in his time.

The ceremonie being ended, they all re [...]urned to the Pa­lace, where the new knights, as soone as they could be disar­med, attired themselues in most rich and sumptuous robes for the more honour ofthe feast, which for their sakes was so­lemnised with verie great pompe throughout all the Court. But Belcarin made no tariance to behold the [...]litie of that as­semblie: his mind was rather occupied in the high intended thought of his future glorie, then in the excesse of a feast: which made him begin thus to debate with himself. Belcarin, thou hast now no more idle time to spend, hauing taken vpon thée the honourable degrée of knighthood, and art therewith inuested by the h [...]nd of thine vncle the Emperour, one of the best knights whom euer the diuine prouidence hath adorned and made illustrious through many laudable vertues: which neuer wanted thy father also, in any thing that might bée re­quisite to a man perfectly accomplished in armes: if thou hast liued hitherto in delights and pleasures, yet now it is high time for thée to trauaile the world, to shew wherein thou re­semblest thine ancestors, treading in their steps, who with great paine wandered before thée, and purchased therby that famous reno [...]me, the memorie whereofshall euer remaine immortall: the which if thou wilt not blemish, thou must ha­sten thy departure from hence, and looke out to séeke some strange aduentures as they did.

After manie cogitations which perplexed his mind not a little, he resolued in as secret maner as might be, to depart with one onely Squire to attend vpon his person, purpo­sing to take his voyage directly into Macedon, there to make his first assay of Armes in the aduenture of Celestina the Faire, who was at that time enchaunted within a castell of [Page 3] the Ile of Carderie: for at that season there was no other talke euery where but of the great number of knights who dayly flocked thither, enterprising to win her by the sword, being to haue her in mariage afterward, with the kingdome of Thessalie for her dowrie: so great should be the recōpence and guerdon of him, who could deliuer her out o [...]the inchan­ted dungeon. But as yet had no knight been séene there, who could set foote within the castell to set frée this yong Prin­cesse. Now were Belcarins eares oftentimes tickled with the fame of this aduenture, which euerie one reputed so strange, that he determined to goe thither, to trie what he could doe, with an incredible desire to performe it: for besides he should thereby purchase great honour, and a generall commenda­tion of the world, he might yet thinke himself most fortunat, making his, so rich and faire a Damosell, and that by dint of sword. So that being excéeding glad through the hope which he had conceiued to atchieue his desired purpose, hee did on [...] ­ly but thrée daies honor this solemne feast with his presence, and the fourth day endossed verie early in the morning a rich armour burnisht greene, which he had caused very priuily to be made, and commaunded to paint on his shield in a siluer field a castell of G [...]wles, representing a Iasper stone in ver­dure for his deuise. Departing thus the citie without know­ledge of any person, hee tooke his voyage towards the king­dome of Macedon.

The Emperour who heard afterward ofhis secret depar­ture, was passing glad of this enterprise, and in presence of many knights began thus in his fauour: Now as God mee helpe, I haue an opinion, nay, a confident hope, Belcarin will be haue himselfe so valiantly in feates of armes, that all ye will be glad in heart to heare me make the discourse ther­of. God graunt it may be so, and may he fortunatly direct him in his courses, and so well prosper the generous forward­nesse, that all men may beholde shining in him, that hée maie winne thereby honour and aduauncement, such as his heart desireth.

[Page 4]Surely this act of Belcarin did well please them except Tiraqu [...]l, who w [...]s greatly offended, because he imparte [...] to him no part of his entent: for he would gl [...]dly haue kep [...] him companie, so that he resolued immediatly to put himselfe in quest after him, as soone after it fell out.

In the mean time Belcarin made such expedition in his iour­nies, that without any let by the way, he got out o [...] the bo [...]ds of the Empire in a small ti [...]e: and being entered the fronti­ers of the kingdome of Macedonie, he lodged the first night, in an old knights castle, who very affable and courteous, sée­ing him passe before his gate, (because it was alreadie late) gētly desired him to take his rest that night with him: which offer he willingly accepted at the instant request of the vene­rable old father, who tooke great pleasure in beholding Bel­carin, after he had disarmed himself, as well for his goodly sta­ture and proportion of members, as for his eloquence and af­fability wherewith he much enriched and graced his lan­guage, which was occasion that they conferred long time together: and falling from one matter into another, in the end the old man discouered that this knight was one of the chiefest fauorites ofthe Emperour Cleodomyr.

But the Gentleman had three sonnes very vngratious [...]mpes and of a wicked nat [...]re, who were ve [...]y much offen­ded at the courtesie and liberall hospetallitie their father vsed toward strangers: wherefore he who knew well their mal­lice, went to méet them in the way homeward (for at that present they were hunting abroad) to admonish them how they should welcome and entreat this new guest: Know my children, quoth hee, we h [...]ue this night in our house a knight descended of the Emperours house, whose physiognomie be­wraieth him to come ofsome great and high linage: for which cause I pray you do him all the honor you can in the best sort deuise, and feasting him with all chéere and gladnesse, speake nothing before him, which may not beseeme his honourable estate. Father answered they, we shall doe all your comman­dements: But assoone as he was gone, they conspired to as­saile [Page 5] this knight on the morrow at the entraunce into a for­restnot farre distant from the castle, to proue if he were so braue a man, as their f [...]ther had signified vnto them. There­fore came not th [...]y to supper as they promised, but on the morrow morning betime salied out of the castle all three wel mounted and in armes. The honourable and good knight sée­ing the ingratitude and disobedience of his childeren did his best to do all the honour he could to Belcarin, who returning him many thanks, the next day departed, and tooke his leaue of him, to put himselfe againe into his way, wherein hee had rode little more then two miles, but he met the thrée brethren lying in ambush for him at the side of a wood: the eldest hauing his launce vanced vpon his thigh, stept before him and thus began to play the champion:

Faire knight you must ioust with me, otherwise you can passe no further: for now I will try whether you be so hardie and valiant as your report is, or no. Belcarin who doubted a greater ambuscado, tooke a lance out of his esquiers hand, and speaking very courteously made him this answer: Knight ye offer great wrong to assaile thus the Emperours gentlemen, perhaps you may quickly find one, who will giue you both your hands full, and little leisure to repent your hast. Trou­ble not your self therfore (replied the eldest brother) haue don, and prepare your selfe to breake a launce. This said, they re­tired from ech other the length of a good carrier, then setting spurs to their horses they came to encounter with such a vio­lent [...]ury, that the assailants staffe flying in shiuers could not stir neuer so little Belcarin out of the saddle: who on the other side (for that he was strong and puissant) hit him so soundly with the first blow o [...]his launce, that piercing his shield and armour he ran him more then a foot and hal [...]e thorow the bo­dy with his sword: so that there was no néed to send for a Chi­rurgion to cure his wound: The two other brethren which beheld this piteous spectacle supposing truely their elder bro­ther had his deaths woūd, came in a great rage galloping to­wards him, & called to him aloud: Ha knight in a curled hour [Page 6] didst thou strike that blow, for thou shalt presently receiue thy death. So they can bo [...]h full at him: but the one mis [...] his blow, and the other lighted vpon his slanke, where he made a little wound, wherof when Belcarin felt the smart, he began to stir himselfe couragiously in his owne defence. And albeit these two brethren d [...]d trouble him sore, yet the bickering la­s [...]ed but a while: for this yong prince being very resolute and exper [...] in armes, did deliuer such a full blow vpon the massard of one of them, that hée set him tumbling to the ground to beare his brother companie. And to make briefe, with his fal­chion doubled his blowes so thicke against the other, that hee was faine to fall from his horse al amased to the earth: where he lest them all three thus vanquished, and betooke himselfe to his voi [...]ge againe.

The squier who came with the brethren, hauing séene the end of the skirmish, rode backe presently towards the castle, and finding their father in his chamber, certified him of this heauie news. Alas sir quoth he, man vnlucky houre did you lodge yesternight the strange knight, who euen now hath made an end of s [...]aieng your three sonnes: Th [...] h [...] began to rehearse the whole discourse of the combat, wh [...]e sor [...]wfull issue drew vp the fludgates of a stream of tears which distilled frō the miserable fathers eies, who bewailing their so great disaster called them many times fellonious and prowd chil­dren.

His vassals vnderstanding afterward the occasion of his gréeuous lamentation, went incontinent to the place, where their young lords were discomfited, Two wherof they found stone dead, and the third in danger of his life, if he had not pre­sent succour. Whom they put into a litter, and the other two they laid vpon a Béere couered ouer with dolefull black, and so did they conuey them with much sorrow and mourning in­to the castle, where was their wéeping mother powring forth a sea of salt teares, wringing her hands with pittifull and lamentable complaints, s [...]réeching vp to the heauēs with continuall yelling and crying, that you would haue iudged [Page 7] her rather to haue resembled some senceles thing then a woman in any thing partaking humaine wit and reason. The like did her daughter also, who after she came againe to her best senses, did protest and déepely sweare before [...]er mo­ther▪ y^t her hart should neuer rest at ease, before she had caused this murtherer to die a cruell death, wherefore as soone as the two dead corpses were enterred, she departed against her fa­thers will, accompanied only with two squiers to séeke out Belcarin, with full intention to be reuenged of him by hooke or by crooke, whensoeuer or howsoeuer.

CHAP. II. How Belcarin came vnknowne into Macedon where he caried away the price of the Tourney that king Florendos caused to be held at the nuptials of the Infant Deni [...]e, discouering him­selfe onely to Alderine daughter to the duke of Pontus and Durace.

BElcarin roode two daies iourney in great dili­gence, kéeping on still his way towards the Isle of Carderie, and the third day following, for that it was so extreame sultrie and hot, which hée could not well endure in his ar­mour, he alighted about noone of the day hard by a [...]eare fountaine to refresh himselfe a little, but he had not ben long there when he perceiued comming along by a little way which crost in to the very place where he was, a great traine of knights and ladies which came riding amaine. It was the duke of Pontus and of Durace, who was going into Mace­don to the wedding which king Florendos did make of his daughter Denise, with the king of Thrace, nephew to the wife of Caniam. This duke of Pontus had riding along with him his Spouse Laurena, with a very faire daughter of theirs also called Alderine, who roode formost of al the troupe, deuising in matters of parly with her Damsels, not without a ful ent [...] to stay somewhile to solace thēselues at the [...]o [...]tain: [Page 8] and there she was ariued before Belcarin had setled his hel­met on his head againe, so that the princesse by a glaunce had a perfect view of him, and discrying him to be of a beautiful vis [...]ge, richly armed, and without any company but of one onely Squire, as she was sage and well aduised, saluted him with a comely grace: whereof Belcarin was much asto­nished, supposing she had knowen him: but he chaunged quickely his opinion: for supposing that to procéed rather of her gentle nature and curtesie than otherwise, thought shée must néeds come of some great house: therfore making a low obeysance in signe of reuerence, he very curteously resaluted her. Soone after perceiued he the traine of this ladie, and for that he feared to be discouered by some of the companie, cau­sed his horse to be brought him, and mounted, he tooke againe into the way wherein he was going before, whereat Alde­rine somewhat displeased, for she would verie faine haue knowne who he was, boorded him thus.

Sir knight, stay here boldly at your ease, and forsake not this swéet and delectable place for our comming: for consi­dering the great heate of the day, it is yet no time for you to trauell on your way. And if you go peraduenture to the tour­ney which is held in Macedon, you may come thither in good time with the Duke my father, who shall bée verie glad of your companie, & I much more, who met you here by chance first of all.

Belcarin humblie thanking her for this curtesie, made his excuse that he could not go into Macedon, because he had many other more vrgent affairs in another quarter, whether he did pretend his voiage, therefore once more he tooke leaue of her againe, and spurred his horse that way which séemed fittest for his purpose: onely to get himselfe as farre as hée could from this companie: and méeting a Squire who came after the traine and carriages, he demaunded of him, if hée knew not the Lord who rode before with so great a traine? the Squire answered him, it was the Duke of Pontus, who was going into Macedone to the feast which king Florendos [Page 9] celebrated for the mariage of the infant Denise, and that he had in companie with him his daughter Alderine, to sée the iustes & tournaments which they were there preparing.

So soone as Belcarin vnderstood this newes he began [...]o think that the ladie which came first to the fountain should be the dukes daughter, of whom he had many times heard talke before. By meanes whereof he purposed to go sée this assembly, in as secret maner as he might possibly, [...]or he should haue time enough afterward to perform his voiage. Thus did Belcarin forsake the way towardes the Isle of Carderie to take that of Macedon, which was little more than thrée daies iourney from thence. On the third day, be­ing come néere the citie, he met with two knights armed, who went to this tourney, and after enterchange of salu­tations, the two knights asked him if hee came not thither to iust. I go thither (quoth Belcarin) to behold the braue mē at arms, who wil appeare within the lists. Let vs go then togither in companie, if it please you, said they, because we are for the same effect departed from our countries. So they road on their waies talking of many matters toward Macedon, where being ariued, they found a large plain co­uered with tents of the nobilitie which were already come to sée the solemnitie. Therfore they two knights comman­ded their squires to set vp a faire and rich Pauilion, which they caused to be brought thither expresly for y^e same cause, requesting Belcarin very louingly that he would there stay with them: whervnto (for that he would not enter into the citie) he most willingly condiscended, fearing also not to find any lodging so fit for his purpose.

On the morrow morning arriued there the duke of Pontus, before whom came the king Florendos, accompa­nied with his new son in law for to entertaine & welcome him. But Alderine who went formost with a passing com­ly grace, shewed her selfe faire in perfection: yet something sad & pensiue for the desire shee had to know who was that knight ofthe Fountaine, whom she could neuer cancel out [Page 10] [...]her thoughts since: Whē Belcarin beheld her come arme [...] with the king of Thrace, trickt vp in her finest at­tire, she séemed [...]arre more f [...]ire to him then when he sawe her at the Fountaine. I [...]so [...]h th [...]t he purposed, if per­aduenture he could not [...] [...]uenture of C [...]l [...]sti­na, to act such things wi [...]h [...], th [...]t hée mi [...]t pur­chace the loue of this [...]. But the [...], wife to King Florendos, [...] the Dutch [...] L [...] ­rena honourablie, and the [...] [...]aking A [...]derin [...] with her, would not p [...]rt [...] the euening of her mariage day: whose solem [...] [...] was gr [...]t and magni­ficent in all things.

The next day folowing [...]he [...]ing, the Qu [...]ene, and their sonne and daughter newly es [...]ouse [...], went forth into the large field, to behold the T [...]t [...]s whi [...] were alreadie in a readinesse: where as s [...]ne as they were mounted vpon the scaff [...]lds, richly hanged and prouided for them, and ma­nie other Ladies and Gentlewomen of estate, they began to bestirre themselues to the encounter of armes. In the which of the one side, and of the other, there were sée [...]e a great number of braue knights, and especially of the Em­rours court, for that he himselfe, who could not be present at his sisters feast, had sent thither many of his knights to honour it the more. The great feates of armes that were exploited in this conflic [...], surpassed truelie the most mar­uailous that had béene séene before: and amongst the rest, the Dukes of An [...]men, and of Men [...]e, behaued themselues valiantly, who were vpon the point to haue woon the ho­nour of the first assault, if Belcarin had not come in: who standing still a little to behold the skirmish, with intention to succour the weaker part, began at last to rowse himself, when he said to his companions▪ Follow me, brethren, to helpe the vanquished. Then setting spurres to his horse, came with such a fierce sallie, with his Launce charged against Be [...]laquin, sonne to Mos [...]a; vpon him whom he saw doe greatest domage to the aduersarie partie: and such [Page 11] was the encounter, that he dismounted him, and sent him like a feather to the ground. Quickly set hand to his cour­telare, and began to strike so furiously all those that fought against him, that within a little while he put force and courage againe into the side which was reputed before for vanquished.

Whereat the Duke Anemon, who saw his side put to the woorse, was in a great rage against them: and as hée perceiued all this to procéede from the comming in of Bel­carin, he began presently to gather in towards him, and to salute him with a great blowe of his swoorde vppon his helmet, of whome by and by he receiued quicke paiment: for that Belcarin lifting himselfe vppon his Stirrops, rea­ched him a full blow so right on his Beauer, that he set him packing in a maze vnder his horse heeles. Then passing further, made way thorow the presse, and bore downe to the ground all that euer he met, in such manner that king Florendos, and the other Nobles who did accompanie him, were in a great woonder, and none could discrie, nor giue anie knowledge who hée should bée, except Al­derine, who then sitting there hard by Quéene Denise, coulde not holde her tongue, but must prattle of him thus.

Madame, how thinke you ofthe knight in the gréene ar­mour? What I thinke? (quoth she) I neuer saw man at Armes who might compare with him, séeing that alone hée hath done more in this Tourney, then the rest, put all together: and I should bée verie glad to knowe whether hee bee of so noble bloud, as he is valiant and skilfull in the exercise of Armes.

Madame, replied Alderine, I beléeue hee cannot be but a great personage, séeing that he kéepeth himselfe so close, and will not bee discouered of anie: Moreouer, shee tolde her, howe shée found him at the Fountaine bare headed, his Murrion lying by him. And knowe ye (quoth she) pro­céeding further, that if hee bee valiant at Armes, as [Page 12] you sée yet he wanteth no liuely & rare beautie o [...]face, nor a verie comely grace and gesture to accompanie it. Now I haue a great desire (quoth Quéene Denise) to know who he is, so that I thinke best to send a messenger to him for the same effect. Then (quoth Alderine interrupting her) Ma­dame, I pray you that the messenger may be one of my pa­ges, who shall wait for him at the going out of the Tylt, to coniure him on your behalfe to declare his name: and if he desire not to be knowne, we will conceale it so secretly that no man shall knowe it by our meane. Your opinion liketh me best of all other (quoth the newe Bride) but I would that this errand were done from you: [...]or he cal­ling to minde the little acquaintance you had ofhim at the Fountaine, will make him selfe knowne peraduenture more willingly to you onely, than to any other.

Alderine then called one of her Pages, named Gra­tian, and instructed him what hée had to say to the Knight in the gréene armour, to whome shee sent him expreslie, with instant request, ioyned with a singular desire to knowe who he was. In the meane time, Belcarin did such admirable things in his Iustes, and with such his insup­portable dexteritie and martiall prowesse did so canuasse his aduersaries, that being no longer able to stand before him, they got away, and departed out of the lists, where he remained alone victorious. Then the two knightes with whom he soiourned, who had beene rather occupied all this while to beholde his prowesses, than to Iust and Tilt, béeing woonderfull glad ofthe honour he did them, in winning the honour of this day, set him in the middest betwéene them, and so tooke their way towardes their Tent: whither they were followed by the Page of Al­derine, who neuer lost sight of them, but finding a fit place for the purpose, tooke Belcarins Horse by the Bridle, and bowing downe with a low reuerence, be­gan thus: Faire Knight, may you please to heare two woordes of a message which I haue to doe vnto you: [Page 12] He, who was most courteous and affable, withdrew him­selfe presently from his companions, when Gracian pro­céeded in this maner.

My lord to your selfe doth Alderine daughter to the duke of Pon [...]us and Durace send me now, to let you vnderstand the cause she hath to grieue and complaine of you for euer: séeing that comming to these iustes you disdained the offer of her companie. Neuertheles if you will condescend to one thing which she sendeth me to entreat at your hands, laying aside all this anger and sorrow, shée shall haue no cause to complaine of you hereafter.

My brother, answered Belcarin, it should be some diffi­cult, nay impossible thing, if I did not vndertake it to finde pardon at so high a ladies hands as your mistres is: albeit if I haue made an offence towards her excellencie, it was onely through mine ignorance, who knew her not. And when I left her at the fountain, it was not truly mine en­tent to be present at this tilting, as afterwards I was con­strained. So that mine excuses could nothing preuaile a­gainst the importunitie which hath countermaunded me.

Then the page replied: Séeing that it is your pleasure to accomplish that which my ladie Alderine would entreat you, know she hath an extreame desire to know who you are, and wherfore you keepe your selfe so close & secret: for considering your valour and chiualry, she esteemeth you a­boue all others, of whom as yet she had euer any know­ledge: promising you also by the faith ofsuch a lady as shée is, [...]ot to make it manifest to any creature, if so be your pleasure. I may thinke my selfe very happie quoth Belca­rin then, if so noble and perfect a princesse taketh paine to be inquisitiue of my déed, and when I should haue concluded with my selfe to conceale it from al the world, yet would I not from her: wherefore brother, you shall tell her that my name is Belcarin, I am nephew to the emperour of Constantinople: and the cause why I am not willing yet to be knowne, is that I am but lately knighted, and ha­uing [Page 14] not as yet performed any thing which may so much b [...] on my name, that it may be registred in the number of the valiant, I resolued not to publish it but with very good testimoniall. Further you shall assure her from me, that I offer my selfe from henceforth to serue her as her most humble knight, hoping vnder the fauour of her famous name, to win so great reputation, that I and my posteritie shall for euer remaine her bounden seruaunts. And then when I haue done those thinges, whereby I may merite honour and commendation, I will come vnto her my selfe to make her the offer of my heart, which féeleth it selfe so much affectioned to obey her, that it shall not at­tempt any thing hereafter, which may not be to her liking and pleasure. So much she shall know in commanding me, for I haue so readie a will to employ my selfe in her seruice that notwithstanding the hazard of my life did depend vp­on doing it, I will not spare any of my best forces: Besée­ching her moreouer not to disclose my name to any one for that I would at this present visit the king Florendos and the Quéene my grandfather and grandame.

With this answere returned Gracian to his mistres, who staied for him in so great deuotion, that so soone as shée saw him come a farre of, she could not containe, but must néeds aske him what successe had followed the exploit of his ambassage. Well Madame answered the page, but you must kéepe it secret, for so is his humble request. That shal wée doe most willingly quoth they, and then hée recounted to them all that hée had vnderstoode of him, saying that hée was Belcarin the king of Hungaries sonne. What is it he? Quoth Quéene Denise, scréeking alowd for ioy, why hée is then my nephew: and what so great iniury haue we done him that he vouchsafeth not to visit vs? Truely I should bée verie glad to see him, for I loue him entirely, for that from our infancie wée were brought vp together. And well can I assure you Madame Alderine, that he hath béene alwaies verie courteous and gentle from a youth, where­fore [Page 15] I reioice greatly, that his valour in arms doth so wel second his courtesy [...]nd mildnes. Neuertheles séeing he wil be so [...]ret▪ he shall not be disclosed for vs.

We néed not demaund whether Alderine were ioifull when she heard say that Belcarin was descended of so noble and famous bloud séeing also he proffered himselfe alreadie very cordially to be her knight: wherefore from that very instant hour she began to loue him without measure, and to imprint so well his remembrance in her spirit, that shée could neuer blot it out, but euery houre more then other did she multiplie in her heart the amourous passion that Cupid, who was then in ambush, had before brewed for her at the Fountaine.

CHAP. III. How Belcarin fearing to be discouered, departed secretly out of Macedon to fal again into his way, in which he met a knight, whom he afterward vanquished, and how hee had a fierce combat with him who guarded the bridge where Celestina was enchanted.

AS soon as Belcarin had dispatched away Alderines gentlem [...]n, he resolued to depart that court, doub­ting the king Florendos would send to séeke him all about, as soone after [...]ell out, for he desired greatly to know who was the knight that was the van­quisher. But he found himselfe frustrate of his attempt, for that Belcarin g [...]t him quickly away: which the king could hardly haue beleeued, had he not perceiued it in his second iusting, which he ordained for the nonst, the which séemed to him but a sport of little children, in comparison of the former tourney, where this vnknown knight shewed such incredible acts of chiualry: and albeit quéen Denise and the princesse Alderine, heard thē speaking hereof many times, yet would they neuer open any other thing, butthat hee should be some one of best account in the emperours court.

[Page 16] Belcarin then after that he had in most courteous maner thanked the two knights, for their great humanity & cour­tesie towards him, tooke of thē honestly his leaue, [...]aining he was constrained to be gone in all hast for some affairs of importance which he was to manage in another place: whereat the two knights shewing themselues greatly dis­pleased of this suddain departure▪ offered to kéepe him com­panie: but he thanked them againe, saying as then he had no néed thereof. So hée put himselfe againe into the way which he left before to sée Alderine ▪ and road that day little more then thrée mile, onely to dislodge himselfe from the court. It chaunced he tooke vp his lodging all that night in a faire gréene meddow, where (for that there was no house­roome néere) he purposed to rest, and to passe that night a­way as well as he might: But euen as he thought to close his eies, and to take a nappe, a déepe thought of the surpas­sing beautie of Alderine troubled his spirit: During which he entred this combat with himselfe. Truly, Belcarin, thou maiest by good right be noted o [...] ingratitude and discourte­sie, hauing shewed so little ciuility towards so noble a prin­cesse as is the duke of Pontus daughter: Ah, Thou must amend this fault, and shew her in effect that the innocent mistaking of dutie is nothing, where repentance and satis­faction for the offence committed presently ensue. After many amorous discourses he resolued himselfe (if he could not atchieue the aduēture of Celestina) to accept her with all his heart for wife: And in this point of his thought, a swéet sléepe fell into his eies, which continued without waking till the morrow morning, when séeing it cleare day, he mounted on horsbacke. But he had not gone farre, ere hée met a knight armed at all points who asked him whether he came from Macedon, and whether the marri­age of the kings daughter were solemnized? whereunto he answered, affirming that they were: notwithstanding if he went to the Tourney, he should come thether time e­nough to be set a worke.

[Page 17] [...] knight bidding him farewel, without further talke road on [...]is way. And if you will know-what newes with him: he was Sergin the sonne of Cardin, he who departed from Constantinople with Colmelie, to follow the dams [...]l who came to do the hastie embassage to the emperor Cleo­domyr, as you vnderstood in the last chapter of his hystorie. And albeit they had raunged ouer many countreis to finde her, yet could they neuer heare any newes for that she was retired verie quicklie within the castell of Carderie, from whence the Fairie sent her away in haste to the Court, for the dispatch ofthat businesse, which tended to the greater glorie and renowme of the future prowesse of Marcomyr, sonne to the Quéene of Tharsus, and the Emperour Cleo­domyr. To the end that this knight comming one day to vndoe the enchantment of Celestina, hée might be enter­ned with greater honour and magnificence. Now had Ser­gin made his assay in this aduenture, but being not able to goe anie further in it than others, hauing vnderstoode of the solemnitie and open Court helde in Macedon, went thither in a great perplexitie to bée present at the Tour­ney at that time when Belcarin gaue him certaine newes thereof. These two knights could not haue ridden farre more than halfe a mile the one from the other, when Ser­gin met the Damsell, sister to the two brethren whom Bel­carin slue at the wood side: who hauing pursued him as far as king Florendos Court, was aduertised by one of her squires whom she sent after him in post, that hee had woon the honour of the triumph: from the which withdrawing himselfe verie secretly, afterwardes he tooke right the high way of Carderie, into which way she made such hast after him, that she met with Sergin soone after Belcarin had left him, and thus to him gan she say:

Gentleman, I pray you shew mee whether you met not before a knight who carried a gréene armour vpon his backe, the most traiterous and disloial man who liuith this day in the whole world. For my father hauing done him al [Page 18] the hon [...] th [...]t he could d [...]uis [...] one [...] him in his Cas [...]ell, and the [...] him the more, comm [...]unded three brethren I h [...]d to ac­compani [...] him on his way. The ingr [...]tefull and fellon wretch without anie other occasion cruelly did two of them to death, and lest the third in danger to go quickly to kéepe them companie: so that I now go after him, in hope to [...] some v [...]lerous man [...]t Armes, who abhorring the iniquitie [...]nd crueltie of [...], may h [...]ue some com­passion t [...] [...]uenge me of th [...]s [...]trage. Full well knew this t [...]teresse to col [...]ur her sp [...]ch [...]s, [...]nd by this meane fine­ly to f [...]ame and l [...]y together a ca [...]el [...]us Prosopopo [...]a, that she impri [...]ted in Serg [...] hart, [...] desire of reuenging so foule an im [...]cie. Wherefore he made h [...]r [...]his answere, Faire damsel, if it he so [...]s you say, the knight [...]annot excuse him­self, but he is in [...] a traitor, & a [...], an [...] you shal sée that God aboue will not permit him to liue l [...]ng in this world vnpunished. The damsel began to sweare [...]e [...]rably it was troth which she had said, pr [...]ying him very instantly hée would helpe her in this d [...]resse, i [...] his opportunitie might serue: most willingly, answered Se [...]gi [...], [...] I doe my best endeuour to make him pay [...]eare for this his villanie▪ for I am a capitall enemie of vi [...]e murth [...]rers.

Then turned they bridle incontinently to follow after Belcarin, but they could not ouertake him all that day, nor the morrow, because he road a very round pace. The third day afterward, b [...]ing newly gon out of a litle place where he had lodged all night, they discouered him a farre off vpon the top of a little hill, wherof the damsel was very glad, and then againe she [...] Sergin to employ all his best force to take reuenge on this [...]yr [...]nt. The knight promising still so to do, [...]purd li [...]ely his [...]our [...]er to ouertake Belcarin the soo­ner. To whom he [...] aloud a far off, speaking in a great bra [...]d [...], [...], s [...]y, [...]hou traitour and caitife Knight, to receiue of my [...]a [...] the guerdon for murthering so coward­ly those who h [...]d entertained thée with all humanitie into [Page 19] [...] who heard himselfe thus reuiled, was moued to great choler: then furiously turning bridle to­wardes him who did vrge this disloyaltie wrongfully to him, made this stout answere: Euill for thy profite com­mest thou now to publish in this Countrey to foule a lie. At the instant downe with his beauer, and by and by vay­ling his Launce, ranne with a most violent furie agaynst him▪ [...]he like did Sergin brauely for his part, who breaking his [...] vpon the enemie, pearced his harnesse quite tho­row [...] his pouldrons, and scarde his flesh a little as the [...]. But B [...]carin charge [...] him with so great force [...] him neate out of the Saddle: being thus smit­t [...], [...] full downe vnder his horse héeles, and by no meane was able to recouer his feete, wherefore séeing him lie thus without moouing arme or foote, hee proceeded on his way.

The [...]ams [...]ll who was ar [...]iued by this time, séeing Ser­g [...] in that [...] from her palfr [...]y very sorrowfull and angrie, [...] wr [...]pping vp his wounds as well as shée could with her Squires, [...]etermined to carrie him into some place to cure his wounds, making the greatest lamē ­tation that might [...]e for so strange an accident. Alas, good God, q [...]th she, how giue you power to the wicked thus to wrong the good and iust? Suffer not, I beséech you, this traitour to doe any further hurt, but hastening the houre of his death giue your consent, that he may quickly bee trust vp, or come to some vnhappie end. The two squires who had alreadie lifted him on horsebacke, returning the verie way they came, conducted him to the lame lodging, where Belcarin had soiourned the night before. There vnderstood they oftheir host, how that he went to trie himselfe in the aduenture of Celestina, whither the Damsell had willing­lie followed him: but loth to leaue Sergin in so euident daunger, shée t [...]rried three dayes with him, seruing him in the best manner she could, because for her loue he had in­curred this perill.

[Page 20]So we wil leaue them there togither to returne to Bel­carin ▪ who road so hard, that at last hee arriued at a castell standing within half a daies iourney of the Ile where Ce­lestina was. This fortresse did belong to a gentlewoman being a widow, who had two faire daughters, and one son knighted not long before, no lesse valiant in feates of Armes, then learned and prompt in manie other disci­plines. In this place hée was maruailous well entertai­ned, for the Ladie of the Castell was a verie honourable woman, and her daughters verie courteous Gentlewo­men, and of comely grace: Supper time come, he was ser­ued in good sort, with manie fine dishes: re [...]ection taken, he began to discourse with them, and entering in talke of diuerse matters, hée enquired of the déedes of knights who did make the aduenture of the Isle, wherevnto the Gentlewomans sonne called Lipes, made this aun­swere:

Truely, Gentlman, I should hold him for ill aduised, who wil enterprise to goe thither to labour in that matter, séeing it is but a while since a knight arriued there, and is returned but with dishonour, forasmuch as the de [...]ise of this enchantment (as well haue the thrée Fairies knowne to doe it) hath béene of such efficacie, that he who shall ex­ploite the vndoing of it, had néed bee of singular prowesse and valour.

But can you tell me, replied then Belcarin, the condition of this aduenture, and wherin consisteth the greatest diffi­cultie? for yet haue I neuer found any who could tell it me truely: nor satisfie the great desire I had to learne it. Bet­ter then any man liuing can I now discourse it to you, quoth Lipes, because I haue beene there oftentimes to ac­companie Knightes who came to this place, as you doe, and I haue seene manie of them combat with him who gardeth the entraunce of the Bridge, albeit to their dis­aduauntage. Knowe you then, sir, that the Isle of Car­derie is by diameter of great extend [...]e, & inuironed with the [Page 21] sea on the one side, on the other side washeth and watereth it a floud, which dischargeth it selfe in the salt water very néere the castle, at the foot whereof is built a bridge by mer­uellous architecture whilome accessible to all wandering knights: But since Celestina was there shut vp and enclo­sed within the great dungeon, no stranger might euer en­ter in there: those of the Isle only doe goe and come, all o­ther not. Upon this bridge are placed thrée litle turrets, one in the middest, the other two at both the ends. In the first is a knight surpassing the common measure and proporti­on of men, so fierce, hardy, and valiant, that since the begin­ning of this enchauntment, hath not any one looked him in face who could euer take any aduantage vpon his Pro­wesse, except onely the lord of the Isle Liquie, his sonne whom the emperour Marcomyr vanquished at the Iust, when he conquered the Sagittarie. He being called Line­des by name, was so magnanimious and laborous, that hée fought against the knight of the bridge from morning to night: and albeit the battell were rough and cruell, yet was there neuer perceiued any want of courage or fear at all in him, which happened not to him of the bridge, for that the bloud which he lost, did make him so féeble, that his heart began to faile him. But a crumpshouldered and ilfa­uoured dwarfe who stood sentinell in the top of the first towre to discouer the knights who came a farre off along the fields, winding then swéetly his enchanted horn which he weareth at his necke in a skarfe, did so restore him all his force, that he séemed euen then to haue entred fresh into the combat. In this manner held he out till the sun setting, when Linedes his enemie beganne to be weakened in his strength: by meanes whereof, before the dwarfe returned to sound his horne, he gaue the knight of the towre such a girde, that he made him saue himselfe on the ground with his hands: Then running swiftly along the bridge, got quickly to the middle turret, the gates wherof standing be­fore wide open, shut themselues at his comming, with so [Page 22] fearefull [...]reaking and trembling of the whol [...] b [...]lding, that Linedes fell to ground in a sound: yet for all th [...]t h [...]e was quickly vp againe. A good part of the night was al­ready slipt away, before he came to himself out of his sound, whereby his Squiers (thinking verily he was dead) did make the most gréeuous complaints that might be, & when he was come again to his former senses he [...]ound himselfe so giddy and frushed, that he remained more then [...]oure houres before he could recouer his spéech. In the meane while he was borne into a bed which his squiers had set vp for him in a tent, where he soiorned thrée daies and neuer went abroad, the fourth day féeling himselfe strong inough to endure hor [...]eback (for that he s [...]w there was no way for him to returne once more to pr [...]e this aduenture) hée de­parted thence sad and in grea [...] [...]holler. And I tell you Sir, for a certaine that when the dwar [...]e who s [...]ood sentinell in the top of the f [...]st [...]urret saw the knight of the bridge waxe faint, and to haue the worst of the battell, sounding but his horn, he put him again into his former strength: whereby it commeth to passe that no man can stand out long time a­gainst him: séeing then such an enterprise bringeth great danger and sometimes death with it, mine aduise should be, that no man henceforward would come to aduenture it a­ny more.

You count me meruelous things then quoth Belcarin: sure the Fairies were very wel learned y^t deuised this enchant­ment: wherefore I thinke they haue not shut in the damsel there without great occasion, being assured some Knight must exploit this aduenture: towards the which euery one presuming a little of himself may march couragiously with a hope that it is he for whom it hath ben reserued. Where­vpon I do not wonder if many fall into this errour, séeing that for my part I wil not refuse to go, for any thing what­soeuer may befall me. I [...] peraduentu [...]e I die in the conflict, I shall augment only the number of those who cannot at­taine the purpose of their enterprises, without receiuing [Page 23] any [...] [...]shonour thereby.

Lip [...] intreated him of all loues to forbear the voiage, and so did his sisters in like maner, in the swéet acquaintance & good f [...]uor of whom he was entred very far already, especi­ally of the yonger, very faire and courteous aboue the o­ther: but little auailed them al their persuasiue reasons pro­pounded to turne him, for that Belcarin being come expres­ly fr [...]m a far country, would not for any thing in the world haue failed to make some assay of his prowesse and valour in tha [...] so famous aduenture.

When Lipe [...] saw him so resolute in his opiniō, he offred to bear him company, were it but to shew him the way, which courtesy B [...]lc [...]rin accepted most willingly: by this good oc­casion getting to horsebacke the morrow morning very early, they were in the isle about noon. For that day y^e yong prince pleased to rest himselfe a little within a rich tent which thrée squiers had already reared there, who were sent thether before by Lipe [...] sisters with necessary prouisiōs for such a purpose so soon as they vnderstood the resolution. When it grew late, Belcarin went to vew the isle, and be­holding the towre wherein Celestina was, he praied vnto God in his mind, to giue him so much force, that he might deliuer h [...]r out of that place, and purchase aboue al others the honour to haue happily atchieued such an aduenture. So déepely w [...]s his mind occupied in that thought: that of all the night hée could not put it away, but said often in himselfe:

Ah Belcarin, God forbid thou shouldest suffer thy heart to abase it selfe, delay not to plonge thy selfe manly in the execution of this enterprise, for albeit courage and strength fit for so worthie Prowesse should faile thée, yet ought onely to pricke thée forward, the renowne and genero­sitie of thine auncestors, being the sonne of one of the best knights, who is this day vnder the Zodiake, and ne­phew to that great Emperour, with whom none can euer make compare. Thus discoursed hée in his mind, [Page 24] ouercome with amourous fancie, t [...]l the bre [...]e of day, when he began to arme himselfe leisurely at all points, then went he towards the bridge, where in a little place right before the first Turret, waited for him the knight of [...]he guard, so huge and fierce, that although Belcarin were hardie and valiant, he was notwithstanding somewhat a­fraid, albeit he shewed no signe thereof outwardly, but co­uering himselfe brauely with his sheild, hardie past won­der marched on forward to enter the bridge, when the gar­der, came to debar him, saying very proudly: Stand backe, knight, if you will not haue the combat against me, for this step I forbid all those that are like you. For none other end am I come hether, quoth Belcarin, but to [...]ight with thée, and to passe the bridge, if it be in my power: with that word he tooke him such a rap with his sword, that he star­ted the fire from his eies vnder his helmet: but the knight was quit with him presently, for he payd Belcarin two for one, so well set on with his club wherewith he fought, that he taught him the way where he might goe fet the like [...]s often as he would. Neuerthelesse by his dexterity and skil in managing his armes, hée did beat by afterwards almost all the rest of his blowes, and did reach his enemie some sound knocks very often. In this maner continued they a­bout thrée houres hacking and hewing one another, till Lipes, who commended Belcarin greatly (and muc [...] more then he did before) spake aloud a word of courage, that hée had neuer in his life séene knight, who quitted himselfe so well, kéeping his weapons in his hand.

These words did so animate and prouoke the courage of Belcarin, that perceiuing the knight of the bridge some­what wearie, he would haue done that which he heard say Linedes did: but the guard which stood a little on the left hand, lent him such a villanous polte, which hit him on the shoulder, that Belcarin was faine to kisse the ground with one knée.

Then did the dwarfe sound his horne so swéetely, that al [Page 25] Those which heard it, were verie ioyfull and pleased, ex­cept the Prince, who felt a great [...]ea [...]e and a [...]king in his heart: neuerthelesse, as a man not [...]ing but heart and va­lour, he dissembled it. The knight th [...]n r [...]sto [...]d to his for­mer force by the sound of the horne, [...] the assault more [...]uriouslie than hée did at first, in the which Belcarin behaued himselfe alwayes so brauely, that he helde him shrewde tugge: and one thing comforted him aboue all o­ther, it was, that none of all the blowes that his enemie lighted vpon him, had giuen him a bléeding wound, but did onlie bruise the flesh vnder his armour, and therefore could hée fight verie well at his ease. Thrise blewe the watch which was aboue at the sentinell his horne to fortifie his champion to the battell: which continued so long that in the end Belcarin felt himselfe a little wearied, by reason he had not rested himselfe all that day. Neuerthelesse hée imagined with himselfe, that shewing no other valour then that which he vsed in this skirmish, in vaine had hée taken so great paine to come thither: which hée would haue counted a great shame, if the Emperour had béene aduertised thereof.

Being in this imagination, his stomacke began to en­crease in him maruellously, wherefore he gathered néere his enemie, thinking to lay him along on the ground: but the knight of the bridge was too warie for him to be taken at that disaduauntage, for stepping a little aside, he deliue­red him so sound a blowe on his crest, that he cleft it in two péeces. When Belcarin saw himselfe in this daunger, hée threw with a mightie violence the two péeces at his aduersarie, and by great chaunce hit him so full ouer the shinnes, that the knight fell backeward, and turned round twice or thrice in the place.

Then the Prince séeing that hee might easilie get the bridge without resistance of any, ranne verie swi [...]tlie to the middest Turret, the gates whereof closed at the in­stant with so great impetuositie, that hee sell from his [Page 26] height downe to the ground all amazed, and without any féeling at all.

Now L [...]pe [...] who was verie glad to sée him runne along the bridge, chaunged his ioy into sadnesse when he percey­ued him halfe dead, neuerthelesse lifting him vp betwéene his armes, with the helpe of his two Squires, carried him presently vpon his bed: where disarming him straight, and sprinckling Uinegar, and cold water on his face, they vsed so good remedies that he came quickly to himselfe againe. But he had no sooner recouered his spirits, when he began to lament in straunge manner, as well for his misfortune and disgrace, as for the murthering blowes which his enemie had giuen him, whereof bore witnesse his armour, thrust thorow and pierced in manie places.

While he thus complained and lamented so grieuous­ly, Lipes begun in most courteous manner to comfort him againe: Sir, quoth he, bée of good cheare, take a good heart to passe ouer and let slip this anguish of minde, assuring your selfe without doubt, that it is more than eight yéeres since euer Knight came into this Isle, (onelie Linedes ex­cepted) who hath woonne so great honour, as you haue done now: so that you haue farre greater cause to reioyce, than to complaine as you doe. Alas, my brother, answe­red Belcarin, a sorrowfull man may I be, who haue not at­chiued my purpose pretended: but séeing I sée none other remedie, I must take in patience the disaster that hath so shamefully put me to this foyle. For of things so di­uelishly enchaunted, neuer succéedeth any good: Accursed be the Fairies, with all their infernall charmes and sorce­ries, which make poore wandering Knights suffer so many mischiefs and diseases for their pleasures.

CHAP. IIII. How Belcarin resolued to fight with all those who came to make assay in the aduenture of Celestina, and how amongst others he made front against the marques of Trosse, whom he ouercame: and afterward against Tiraquel, to whom he discouered himselfe.

LIpes tooke great paines to cause the knight Belcarin to be attended with all diligence, whilest he kept his bed; who in y^e meane time was proiecting a thou­sand new fantasticall discourses in his mind. Sometimes imagining with him selfe, that hauing not effected this aduenture, he must per­forme so rare and admirable matters of chiualrie, therby to amend and couer this shame. For this cause he purposed to make stay long time in this place, to combat all those who should come thither to make their trials in the aduenture, with resolutiō that the braue feats of arms which he should exploit there, & wheresoeuer else he should employ himselfe abrode, should be for loue of Alderine the duke of Pontus daughter, whō from that time forward he purposed to loue aboue all other in the world: and if peraduenture he were vanquished by any knight, he determined to go incōtinent vnto king Florendos court. This desseigne discouered he to Lipes, who maruelled much thereat, and told him that this was no small thing that he did vndertake, because there were woont continually to arriue good knights from all parts▪ neuertheles, knowing him before verie resolute in his deliberations, he procéeded with him in this sort, Sée­ing you are fully resolued thus to doe, I will not forsake you, but to sée your prowesse and great chiualrie, which I am most certaine resteth vnder the dexteritie of your per­son, I offer my selffrankely to do you seruice with my loy­all companie. Commanded moreouer incōtinent (for their greater expeditiō) that they should bring him frō his house, [Page 28] horses, and arme [...], [...]s well offensiue as defensiue, brieflie, all manner [...] which were necessarie for so long a time of [...] as they hoped to spend in this en­terprice.

But so soone as Belcarin could endure the trauaile of armes, he sailed not to endosse them, to be in a readinesse, if per [...]duēture any thing chanced in the mean time: & so it fel out that the Marques of Trosse (who came then to make his assay in th [...]t adu [...]nture) arriued there the same day. He was a braue and a hardie m [...]n at Armes, and albeit hée parted from his countries wel accompanied with knights, pages, and gentlem [...]n, he had neuerthelesse caused them to stay behind, short of this place, and towards him he mar­ched with one onely squire, who bore his launce.

When Belcarin saw him come so couragiously directly to the bridge, he mounted incontinent on horsebacke, then drew néere him, saying: Gentleman, this way can you not passe, before you Iust with me, because I haue established this for a law, that no knight shal haue battle with him on the bridge, who hath not first ouercome me: for a fewe dayes past my strength hauing failed me in the assay of this aduenture, I will that no other shall accomplish it, if he cannot preuaile against me. This your rashnes séemeth to me verie great (replied the Marques) seeing you enter­prise to carrie a burthen of such weight: but I beléeue you doe it to depart hence more ashamed and dishonoured [...] you haue done heretofore. Happen what shall ( [...] Belcarin) then with some disdaine you must passe [...] my handes, and take héede of me, if you thinke good. The Marques had alreadie drawne his sworde which was the cause that in the violent running of the horses they made a furious encounter: and hauing both a desire to behaue themselues brauelie, brake their Launces downe to their handles, brushing one another with their Shéeldes, and shouldring so fiercelie that the Mar­ques fell to the ground: féeling himselfe hurt a little [Page 29] [...]ith his fall g [...]tteth quickly on his [...], dr [...]w [...]orthwith his sword, with which he [...] such a blow on the ribs, that he made [...]: but Belcarin who was nimble l [...]apt [...] the saddle, and setting hand to his bl [...]de likewise ran vpon him in a great rage. Ill for thy profit, (saith he) learnest thou euer to vse such cowardise in combating, for thou shalt receaue by and by thy deserued guerdon: then charged him with two such deadly blowes vpon his helmet, that before the sword was from it, the bloud ran downe in the place. The Marques, who was actiue and couragious went alwaies eagerly to worke, and defended himselfe with a wonderfull stomack: neuertheles Belcarin who surpassed him in valor and acti­uity fetcht him quickly so liuely about, that the Marques, who could not almost stand before him, did but void the strokes: Which his aduersary spying, laid so fiercely vpon the edge of his shield, that he laid him along at his féet, where the miserable Marques lost all possibility and meane to de­fend himself: for so soon as he was down Belcarin began to batter him cruelly with the pommell of his sword, saying: Catif, yéeld thée now for vanquished, and sweare vnto me thou wilt neuer séeke to meddle or make any more in this aduenture, if not, I send presently thy soule to the diuel. In good f [...]ith knight answered the Marques, you haue passed me so far, that I warrant I shall neuer passe further in it: and of fauour I beséech you to leaue me in this pittious e­state in the which now I yéeld my self at your mercy. Bel­carin who heard him speake so gently, thought he was in danger of death: therfore withdrew himselfe a side a little whilst the Marques squier approched him, to sée in what state he was: who when he had quickly raised him on his féet, bound vp his wounds with a kercheif which he tore in péeces, he set him faire and softly on his horse which he took at the end of the carrier. But before the Marques departed from thence he requested Belcarin very amiably to tell him who he was, to the end he might know the name of his [Page 30] vanquisher: which hee graunted him willingly. H [...] quoth the Marques: truely I haue no cause to complaine nor to bée sorrowfull for my mishap▪ séeing it is by the hand of so valiant a knight▪ that I see my selfe now vanquished: the Marques hauing spoken these words, marched towards the place where he had le [...]t his people, & from thence to a town from whence he stirred not, til he had recouered his perfect cure & health: then to [...]ke his iourny directly into Macedon, & there recounted what had happened to him with Belcarin.

The king Florendos and the quéen his wife were very ioi­full hearing so good report of Belcarin: for they said, they had a nephew so called▪ who might very wel be the same: then demanded him what arms he caried: the Marques answe­red, green. As sure as God liues thē said the king, it is none other but he: & getting a few daies since the best at the tour­ney, departed thence secretly, fearing to be discouered, whereof I am very glad, and con him thanke that he can doe so well: for that in Prowes [...]e and chiualrie he séeketh to resemble king Frisol his father. Great was the ioy that the nobles of the court receiued by this news, but aboue al other was Alderine most ioifull, because she had set her heart, and all her most secret thoughts vpon him, and lo­ued him euery day more ardently then other, for the great praises she heard were euery where spread abroad of his singular déeds of armes: so that by the only blast of this re­nowne many knights departed from that court to goe trie themselues against him, who being all vanquisht, augmen­ted his fame daily more and more.

But to return to the damsel who pursued to be reuenged of Belcarin for the death of her brethren, after that she had thrée daies serued Sergin very courteously, (séeing him on the fourth well amended) she purposed to depart his companie honestly, to follow after her enemie. It fell out by fortune, Tiraquel son of duke Eustace, who wēt to sée his companion Belcarin euery where abroad, arriued the same euening in a lodging, where seeing the Damsel make such [Page 31] pittious mone (for she could very well play her part at the arriuall of any one) was moued at the last with pittie and compassion to promise her his aid, if she stood in néed therof, and as he demaunded the cause of her lamentation and sorrow, she made answere, how shée hauing two brethren slaine treacherously by a disloial person wh [...] her father lod­ged one night in his Castell did put her selfe presently in pursute after him, and méeting by the way a courteous knight, besought him to take reuenge of the murtherer who had committed that vile act▪ in briefe, that this valiant Gentleman also had béene by him daungerously woun­ded: which caused him so much the more to gréeue and sor­row at her fortune. Full well knew she how to worke him by her enticing and sugred words, so far that Tiraquel pro­mised her once more his aid: and enquiring what was be­come of the wounded knight, quickly could she answere, Here within, sir, now past danger, by the good care we haue had of him, as you may now well sée. Then she led him in­to Sergins chamber, where so soon as they had sight of ech o­ther, they were presently acquainted, & full glad was Ser­gin at y^e heart, knowing Tiraquel to be so néer him: but Ti­raquel was very sorrowful & displeased, séeing Sergin in so il a taking. Yet he swore both to reuenge him and the damsel also, if peraduenture he might méet with the knight who had done the massacre. And for as much as since his arriual he saw him better amended by the one half, & to take plea­sure to hear him speake, he told him how Belcarin & he, were both together on one self same day knighted by y^e hād of the emperor of Constantinople: frō whence that Belcarin de­parted very soon afterward vnwéeting to al the world, & e­specially to me (qd. he) who made after presētly to séeke him, & could neuer hitherto hear any tidings of him. What arms carieth he, qd. Sergin thē? white, & very rich, answered Tira­quel. That knight, haue I not yet séen, said Sergin again, but he may be very well now in Macedonie at the marriage of the infant Denise, which is ther kept most magnificētly. [Page 32] Tr [...]ly then quoth Tiraquel if I were not now bound by [...] promise to this Damsell, I would ge [...] [...] before I went further: but my heart shall neuer be in rest till I haue found out the knight who hath brought you into this bad case.

That night passed they away ioifully together, especi­ally the Damsell was very glad of Tiraque [...]s promise, for that he séemed to her very hardy and able to deliuer her out of all her sorrowes. The morrow morning being come, both of them at one instant tooke their leaue of Sergin to take their iourney towards the Isle of Carderie, where they arriued vpon a thursday about noone, iust as Belcarin was prauncing and managing his horse vp and downe: but he hauing discouered them from a far, laced his helmet, and mounted incontinent vpon a good courser which Lipes had caused to be brought him before from his castell: of whom and of his sisters who came thether to visit him ma­ny times, he reciued daily great support and pleasure. As soone as the Damsell saw Belcarin on horsebacke, she knew him by his armour: wherefore looking Tiraquel in face with an eie mouing him to pity, she encouraged her cham­pion thus: Sir quoth she, sée there the traitor that slew my brethren, whom I beléeue, God hath staied here expresslie to the end I may bée reuenged of the wrong hée hath done mée.

Glad was Tiraquel to find him here, that he might vpon so good quarrel, as he thought, begin his first feats of arms: Belcarin who knew him by his harnes [...]e (for that it was of the same trimming as was his, in which he receiued the order of knighthood at the same time with Tiraquel) was no lesse ioifull to sée him so néere, imagining strait that hée came to séeke him out: neuertheles would trie him a little at the I [...]ust, and so stept before him, saying: Knight you cannot passe farther for I guard this straight: Small ac­count make I of such cowards as you, quoth Tiraquel, that murther traitorously gen [...]emen who doe you honour, sur­mounting [Page 33] farre your merit, which I will make you buy as dearely by and by. Straight will I sée that (replied Belca­rin) whether it be in your power to make me confesse that which I neuer once thought of, much lesse euer commit­ted. You did felloniouslie commit the homicide, replied Tiraquel then, and take héede of me vpon such an occasion, for I haue a great desire to make you repent it: Scant had he ended these spéeches, but they ranne full one at another: and so furious was their méeting, that their Launces fly­ing in péeces, they dasht each other so mightily with their shéeldes, that they wounded one another a little. Belcarin he lost his Stirrops, and Tiraquel went to the ground, but that was by his horses fault, who being wearie and tired by the long way which he had caried his master, who was verie corpulent and mightie, was sore galled, and had his backe broken at the encounter: yet Tiraquel getting vp quickly againe, set most brauely hand to his sword, crying: Alight, knight, or I will kill thy Monture. I will alight most willingly (quoth Belcarin) but it shall be to embrace you, for that I haue no will to fight with you any longer. What, what, quoth Tiraquel, there is no néed of triumph: for if I be fallen from my horse, for that you haue not van­quished me. Great delight tooke Belcarin, to féele himselfe so couragiously spoken vnto by his most deare and singular friend: neuerthelesse, willing to sound him better yet, he alighted forthwith, & came to him directly with his sword in his hand. Knight, quoth hee, I spake to you for your great good, notwithstanding (because you will haue it so) I am content to sée what you can do with your sword. Then Tiraquel, who thought verily that hee was flowted, in a great chafe, hit him two great blowes betwéen the cuirasse and the helmet: but Belcarin had no will to strike, therfore (to make no hotter sport) he laid downe incontinent on the ground his sword and shéeld, then came with open armes to giue him a ioyfull acolade, saying: My intire friend Ti­raquel, I haue ere now sufficiently knowne your valour [Page 34] and prowesse, wherefore I pray you pardon your brother Belcarin the offence he made, in not imparting to you his deliberation, when he departed from Constantinople: for I am assured you go séeking after him. What, quickly an­swered Tiraquel, are you then my brother Belcarin? Tru­lie the errour which I haue now committed, hath béene for that I knew you not, by meanes whereof, I pray you of all fauour, that you will cast down your helmet, for that the armes which I sée on your backe now, haue caused in me this ouersight.

Then helmets went on both sides to the ground, and these two companions many times embraced each other most louingly, when Tiraquel in this sort spake to Belcarin: In good faith sir, it cannot by any mean sink into my head, that your heart hath euer consented to commit such a trea­cherous act, as this damsell hath persuaded me to beléeue. Tell me, I pray you now, began Belcarin, what fellow is this? for another knight (whom I suppose I slue, or at the least sore wounded) hath already fought with me vpon that quarell: assuring you this damsell should be some bad wo­man, séeing she accuseth me thus wrongfully, and staineth mine honor with this disloialtie. She hath giuen me to vn­derstād, quoth Tiraquel, how her father hauing greatly ho­noured you in his castell, one night that you lodged there, and the morrow morning hauing sent thrée of his sonnes to accompanie you on your way, how you should slay two of them outright, leauing the third sore wounded. Ah, treacherous damsell, then quoth Belcarin, how manifest a lie doe I nowe heare? My companion, most true it is, that I slept one night in the Castell that she speaketh of, where I neuer saw man, but the Lord of the place, who was a verie honourable and courteous knight: of whom taking my leaue the morrow morning all alone, when I had scant gone little more then two miles, I founde at the side of a forrest, thrée knights all armed, who forced me to Iust against them, and my fortune was at the first [Page 35] encounter to lay one on the ground with my launce: which the other perceiuing, ranne both with great violence vp­on me, but I deliuered my selfe from them as well as I might. If they were the sonnes of the Lord of the Ca­stell, that knowe not I, greatly it should displease mee if they were, for the honour and good entertainement I receyued at his handes. I beléeue assuredly as you say, then replied Tiraquel, and this damsell can not be but some shamelesse and badde woman, who hath deceyued mee with this lie: But shée maie thanke the great gladnesse which hath seased my spirites in seeing you, otherwise I should chastice her sharpelie, for her impudencie and craf­tie malice.

Shée, who heard all these spéeches, and saw peace esta­blished betwéene the two Knights, hauing the verie teares standing in her eies, begins to exclaime thus: Oh, most accursed and vnfortunate wretch, ah what collusion is this? Certes, this knight whom I brought hither, séemes to me as false and disloial as the other, of whom I séeke re­uenge: neuerthelesse, séeing he hath circumuented me, and ill performed his promise, if I die not speedily, I hope to make him repent it, and to see my selfe reuenged of them both. Hauing vttered these speeches, shee returned the same way she came, and the two knights retired into their Tents. There Tiraquel recounted to Belcarin, how the knight whom the Damsell caused first to fight against him, vpon this supposed treason, was Sergin, whom hee had also left in the Chirurgians hands: whereof Belcarin was grieuously displeased, much blaming and cursing the shamelesse woman, who had induced them both falselie to beléeue her. Then for his part he discoursed to Tiraquell, all that had happened to him in this aduenture▪ also what determination hee had set downe against all those, who should come thither with like intention, for as much as he could not vndoe the inchantment himselfe.

[Page 36]By the faith of a Knight, quoth Tiraquel then, your at­tempt séemeth to me farre greater and more difficult, than the execution of that of the Castell wherein the Ladie is prisoner, in the which I haue no minde to make assay, sée­ing it cannot by you bee brought to an end: but well con­tent will I be, to kéepe here in your good companie. So they dwelt there together, being most exquisitely serued of all that was necessarie for them, and taking all pleasure that they might best deuise, they did there passe time meri­ly with the daughters of Lipes, who came thither manie times to visite them: Albeit, Belcarin found that hee had some what to doe, for that it behoued him to make good a­gainst so great a number of Knights, who came thither from all parts to proue themselues in the aduenture: be­sides against those whom the damsell conducted thither, to reuenge the death of her brethren. But this was a strange and admirable case, that all the long time that Belcarin so­iourned there, neuer came any knight thither who could go beyond him in chiualrie and prowesse: so that this re­nowme, accompanied with a singular and most commen­dable praise, spread it selfe ouer all the kingdome of Made­don, and moreouer in the empire of Gréece. During which painefull exercise that he continued without intermission, the delicious life which by their industrie they studied to prouide, was verie necessarie for him in that place, for that it did diminish much the sorrowe and trauaile that he en­dured. Wherein wée will leaue him a little to recreate his spirites, to speake of the good Knight Marcomyr, sonne of the Emperour Cleodomyr, and of the Quéene of Tarsus.

CHAP. V. How Marcomyr hauing knowledge he was the Emperour Cleodomyr son caused himself to be knighted, then demā ­ded license of the queene his mother, to go see him in Con­stantinople, which he very hardly obtained, and of that which fortuned therevpon.

THe Quéene of Tarsus caused with great care to be brought vp Marco­myr her sonne, whom she had by the Emperour Cleodomyr at that time, when following the exercise of arms he arriued in the Cittie of Alfarin scituate in the kingdome of Pasme­rie, as you haue read amply in his historie▪ This child was of so good a nature, that the quéen and all those of the kingdome held themselues very well pleased, because the more he grew in corpulence, so much the more he shewed himselfe vertuous, and to descend of roiall and illustrious bloud: so that to put him out of all de­sire euer to goe sée his father, (fearing he would haue a will to make himselfe a Christian) they would neuer tell him of whom he was engendred. But to the end he should bée brought vp and well instructed, as did the Heroical gener­ousnes of so high and great a prince require, the quéen com­mitted the charge and gouernement of him to a brother of the defunct king of Tarsus her husband, a knight both very valiant and wise: of whom he was so vertuously instru­cted in litterature, that his naturall enclination his fashi­on of life, and good manners did appeare euery day more then other most commendable, whereby he was excée­dingly made of, and reuerenced by his friends, especially because they saw a wise discretion in him, to prefer mercie before rigour: for he tooke great pleasure to doe any fauor [Page 38] or charitable act to those who did require him. Neuerthe­les if he appeared courteous and louing towards the good, so contrariwise he shewed himselfe bitter and seuere a­gainst the wicked, so that by reason of his meruellous wis­dome and naturall care he had in good things, from his ve­ry infancy and tender age, he would vnderstand the mana­ging of the affairs of the kingdome: wherin, within a little while (his spirit being maruellous apt to be taught, & capa­ble of all good things) he ordred himself so wel, & was so good a politician in his gouernment, that the quéen began to lay vpon him the gouernment of the whole estate. If he enri­ched himselfe by little and little in the perfection of all ver­tues, there wanted not in him the blossome of a liuely beautie of his bodie: wherein were all comely graces so excellent well bestowed in euery part, with the which he could so well behaue himselfe with all temperance and modesty towards al braue knights, who hearing his prai­ses published thorow al the marches of Tarsus bordering round about, came of their owne accord to offer him their seruice.

So that the court was quickly ful, when on a day before he was armed knight (for in truth beside the roiall nature which he brought with him from his mothers wombe, ac­cording to the aspect and celestiall influence of his constel­lation he was born and naturally enclined to armes) there came to sit down vpon a bench in a walking place within a base court of his pallace, an old wrinckled and decrepit woman, so ragged and torne that she shewed her bare illfauoured flesh in many places: trembling so sore, that it séemed her soul would strait depart out of her body. Wher­at those who went vp & down there within began to won­der, yet had some compassion on the poore wretch, and as Marcomyr came forth of his chamber, he saw her in this miserable estate, and beheld her a good while, saying not a worde, and without any spéech went presently from the place to sit downe to dinner. Afterward purposing to go a­broad [Page 39] some where to disport himselfe, he found her sitting in the same place where hée saw her before: by reason whereof, hée begins to say to one of his cosins, named Ozalias, sonne of his ouncle and gouernour: Cannot wée know who is that good old woman which you sée lea­ning vpon that stone seate there. Then Ozalias, to vnder­stand the matter truely, came néere this old beldame to demaund her who shée was, and whether she would haue any thing that was within the house. But the im­pudent old trot, answering not a word, looked vpon him with a squay looke, and then turned her backe to him: whereat Ozalias disdaining, kickt her so good a thumpe with his foot, that hée made her fall from her seate to the ground.

At this goodly spectacle, Marcomyr began to laugh a good, and all the Barons and Nobles with him, but their laughter turned into a suddaine admirati­on: for so soone as this ould mother was risen vp a­gaine, shée séemed so great and ougly, that shée made them all wonder who had beheld her so little before. Then shée turned her selfe all in a rage towards the Prince, taking him vp sharply thus:

Ha Marcomyr, sure thou wilt neuer resemble the Emperour of Constantinople thy father, who is as méeld and affable to the poorest and least, as to the grea­test lords, and other persons of higher qualitie! What a­uaile hast thou gotten to reioice at the iniurie which I haue receiued of thy gentleman? I pray the great Mo­narque Cupido (quoth she, holding vp her hands to hea­uen) that hée wound thy heart cruelly with the loue of faire Celestina, and suffer thée neuer to leaue thinking on her, that thou maiest leaue off this daintie and peaceable life which thou now leadest, to chaunge it for that wherein men endure most paines and tra­uels. So did a good while since thy father for the Princesse Polinard, whom he loued so perfectly, that [Page 40] with all his best force and dexterity of bodie he attempted to win the roialtie that fortune prepareth for her dearest fauourits, vpon the which he is now [...]eated, enioying a far greater felicity then any other Prince dwelling vnder our hemispheare. Forsake then these court delights in which thy mother séeketh to drowne thée, begin to manage armes a little, which shall eternize thy name, and make the ho­nour which thou shalt purchase immortall: for this is thy great shame (being sonne to so rare and inuincible a knight) not to aspire by this mean to imitate him and trace in his labourious steps. Then, when I shall behold thée vp to the eares in thine amourous passions, languishing and tormenting thy selfe out of measure, I will thinke my selfe reuenged of the wrong and dishonor that thou hast suffered me to sustaine in thy presence.

The old woman had no sooner ended these spéeches to Marcomyr (whom from that time forward, shée dubbed knight of the order of Cupid, who is to carrie for ensigne A wounded heart pierced with an arrow) she vanished out of sight incontinent, whereat they were all sore affea­red which beheld her: euen the Prince himselfe who re­mained for a while after amazed as though he had ben in a traunce: and thinking vpon that which the old beldame had said to him, he felt his heart so troubled and fiered for the loue of her whom as yet he knew not, that he was fame to burst forth into these complaints: Alas, who may that lady be, with whose loue by the only rebuke of this old woman I feele my self already so rauished? Surely, if her spéeches be not coloured, or too far from any truth, that I am the Emperour of Constantinoples sonne, it behoueth me to act some thinges by which I may be iudged to re­semble him.

Meane time his spirit was thus occupied in this diuer­sitie of thoughts, and that none durst be so hardie as to di­sturbe him, Ozalias went to the quéens chamber, where he recounted to her all this whole discourse, whereat she was [Page 41] greatly displeased: and immediatly came into the presence for thither they said her sonne had withdrawne himself be­fore: who perceiuing his mother comming towards him, came before her with a very sad countenance, and greatly perplexed, as he was. She tooke him then by the hand, and causing him to sit downe by her, thus she beginneth: Son, I know not what sollies, it séemeth, this old doting wo­man hath now put into your head, cease I pray you to be­léeue them, and I will tell you the verie truth.

Madam, answered Marcomyr, I am sure you will not hide it from mee in anie thing, notwithstanding, I mar­uell much you haue hitherto concealed from me the degrée of my genealogie: for the Emperour Cleodomyr, being so braue and worthie a knight as he is accounted of through­out the world, I could haue had none occasion of disdain to be his sonne, and you lesse to haue told it me. Therefore I pray you most humbly, resolue me this doubt and scruple which I haue in my minde: to the end if it be so, I may em­ploy my best endeuours to make the bud issued from so no­ble and vertuous a braunch, blossom forth and flourish the better. And feare you not for his sake, I should euer forsake you, for it were impossible for me to leaue the law, after which I haue so long time liued, for any strange law what so euer it might be.

Alas, my sonne, quoth the Quéene, interrupting him, I pray the gods to inspire you, and to direct so well your desseigns, that you fully accomplish what you promise me: for the onelie feare I haue to loose you, hath made me kéepe close til this present houre, that which you desire so much to know: But séeing your eares haue béene tickled with that which I can no longer dissemble, assure your selfe, my sonne, what the old Beldame tolde you is most true. Then recounted she to him the whole storie: how shee, to haue issue of some excellent and worthie knight (imitating Tha­lestria Quéene of the Amazonians, who for like occasions did acquaint hir selfe with the valiant king Alexander) did [Page 42] by the counsel of a wise Magitian, amourously deceiue the emperor Cleodomyr: in conclusion shee besought him not to leaue her whilest she liued: for that being depriued and banished from his presence, [...] could not liue one houre.

Great matters are these which you tell me, quoth the yong prince, the Emperor then knoweth not that he hath had any children by you? No surely, replied the Quéene, nor would I he should for any thing in the world. That can not be long so, quoth Marcomyr, for néeds must I one day goe to sée him: but beléeue me, Madam, I shall not be long away, for that I haue fully determined neuer to leaue you, nor to abandon by my will the kingdome, that God hath giuen me to gouerne. Thus communed together of many things the mother and the son, who from thence forwarde shewed himselfe to his vassals verie pleasant, and well pleased in mind: so that resoluing spéedily to bée knighted, he caused to be made for himselfe an armour per­fect red, and another white for Ozalias, whom he loued as his brother. And after they had watched in the chappell, they had both the sword girded to them, and the long spur put on by the father of Ozalias, who was one of the best knights in all those countries. Hauing then both of them receiued of him the accollado, order was giuen for the so­l [...]mnising of a great feast for y^e same effect. During which feast, Marcomyr bestowed many rich presents vpon diuers. But hee could neuer forget Celestina, nor put out of his mind the words of the old beldame, for that he had them so liuely imprinted therein, that they tormented him more than might do any mortall martirdome. Wherfore he con­cluded to passe into Gréece, to the end to visit the Emperor his father, and to learne some newes of this ladie, for well déemed hee, not without cause, had the enchauntresse vsed such vile spéeches to him: so that one day after dinner fin­ding the Quéene his mother at conuenient leisure, and in a place fit for the purpose: in very modest sort hee kissed her cheeke. And as many discourses had passed betwéene them, [Page 43] Marcomyr besought her humbly, she would grant him one [...]oone▪ which the Quéene, who loued him as dearly as her owne person (little déeming his affection would carry him to that which he had already de [...]eigned) willinglydid grant him. I would madame, quoth he then, you take no displea­sure, if I make shortly a voyage to Constantinople, to sée the emperor my father, & the braue knights of his court: for I féel dayly augment in me the desire, which euer since you assured me to be his son, commeth euery houre into mine imagination: but I promise you by the inuiolable & sincere faith which the child aboue all things oweth the mother, to returne with as great speed, as shall be possible.

Alas, my sonne, cried out the Queene, and sighed, your wordes haue so farre wounded and pierced my heart, that I behold plainlie Atropos alreadie cutting off the thread of my sorrowful life: yet if to auoid the extremitie into which I see my selfe now reduced, I feared alwaies to manifest to you my ruine, seeing I cannot now preuent it, nor with honestie denie, that whereunto I haue so rashlie consen­ted, it is good reason I suffer patiently my misfortune. One onely thing I will entreate you, (if maternall zeale, and loue, may so farre mooue you to haue compassion on mee) it would please you to returne with all speede pos­sible to the place of your natiuitie: to the ende once be­fore I die, that these mine eyes beholding you, my soule maie passe with better comfort into the other worlde. The Gods forbid (replied Marcomyr) I should contrarie the least of your commaundements, or in anie wise fru­strate the good hope which you may conceyue of my re­turne.

My deare child, then quoth the Queene, seeng you vn­dertake so farre a voiage, I should aduice that you accom­panie your selfe with some number of knights, to the end the Emperour may entertaine you with greater ho­nour. Madame, answered he, I am certaine, my Lord the Emperour will esteeme nothing the more of me, for [Page 44] séeing me well accompanied, because he shall well know I am king of Tharsus, wherein consisteth not the true point of mine honour neither, but rather in the continuall tra­uels, which I hope herea [...] t [...] endure in faire feates of armes, which I hope he shall heare resound of me through the world. For, (as you are not ignorant) the time hath béen when he himselfe hath gone alone thorow the world, by his magnanimious courage, exposing himselfe to thou­sandes of maruellous aduentures, which are at this day blowne abroad of hi [...]: and neuertheles, the diuine goodnes hath alwayes preserued him from death in all the perils that euer he was in, and as well as hee a number more of other renowmed princes. What aduenture can a man name more hazardous than that of Iason the Argonaut, when he woon the golden f [...]éece in the Is [...]e of Colches? Or that of Theseus the gallant champion, when hee vanqui­shed the M [...]otaur in the Labyrinth of Créete? and yet the gods deliuered them both from all daunger. Truely in my time I haue sometimes behold shi [...]s with poore equippage singling in the déepe s [...]a in great [...]ortu [...]e of weather and storme, who in the end hau [...] [...]r [...]iued rich, and cast anker in the safe hauen. Many others [...] I seen also wh [...] [...]ithful sail nauigating in a calme [...]ea, [...] o [...] wil, who haue afterward béen ca [...] [...] [...]nd [...] néer the shore side, and in the h [...]uens mouth: I should not [...]h [...]n feare to commit my self to the peril of the sea & fortune, séeing we are all predestinate. Therfore h [...]ue I determined to carry along with me no more companie but Ozalias, & onely two squires, as simple gentlemen. Desiring to proue my selfe a­gainst y^e knights of Europe, before the emperor know me.

The Queene resolued to striue no longer against the determinatiō her son had secretly cōcluded in his mind, but rather endeuored to shew him the fairest countenance, al­though her sorowful hart did hardly consent therto. Wher­fore Marcomyr on a day causing all y^e principal of his king­dom to assemble togither, declared to thē his full intention, [Page 45] with expresse commandement that none of them should transgresse the ordinance and will of his mother nor of his o [...]ncle, whom he lest behind him for gouernour and lieute­nant generall ouer all the prouince in his absence. Allof them were very sorry for so suddaine a departure, but see­ing they could not stay him, they all promised with one accord, to accomplish all that which he had giuen them in charge to do: wishing him all in their hearts a prosperous and happie voiage.

Then the quéene retired her selfe into her closet, where her hand imitating the office of her tongue, she couched quickly in writing a letter dire [...]ed to the Emperour, with which letter she was to send a ring like vnto one which she presented him, when she was in the countries of Asia: to the end by means of this ring, Marcomyr should bée the sooner recognished of him: whilst these things were in do­ing (there was rigging [...] very tall ship, thorowly equipped with all store of nourishing victuals, and whatsoeuer els was necessarie for [...]o long [...] voiage) he tooke his congie ho­nestly of all his vassals, and [...] after of the Quéene his mother who felt a great heartbreaking at this departure: then came she directly into the hauen, with the ring and let [...]r whose ten [...]r ensueth:

CHAP. VI. How Marcomyr was by tempest of weather, driuen into the isle of Delphos, where after he had vnderstood of the ad­uenture of the temple, he determined to take harbor: how afterward he vanquished the son of the giant Baledon who kept this isle then by force.

SO soone as Marcomyr was come to the hauen where he should embarke, with many iewels, and many other things necessarie for such a voiage, he was the fourth man who went aboord. And [Page 48] causing them to set saile, commanded his pilots to stéere to­wards the coasts of Thrace, where he had hope to learne some newes of Celestin [...]herfor whō (& yet could not he tell any cause) he felt his h [...]rt before cruelly woūded, & plonged in a most passionat ag [...]y. Scant had he put out frō shore, when began to blow a contrary flaw of wind, which altred his course pretended for Constantinople: for there fell so terri [...]le a storm, that he abode thrée daies and three nights f [...]oating among the waues, where his marriners them­selues knew not on what coast they were. At last the tem­pest being ceased, he commaunded the maister to cast the plummet to the bottome of the sea, to know in what coun­trie they were. He knew strait they were sailing in Eu­rope and in the Mediteranean sea, very néer the [...] of D [...]l­phos, by meanes whereof▪ Marcomyr purposed to make in with the island to refresh himselfe a little.

But into this island were the Pagans weent to come very often in ancient time to visit the temple of Apollo, and to consult w^t his Oracle: wherein at this time was Lord a giant called Baledō, the most cruell & greatest tyrant who then liued in all the thrée parts of the world. This giant who had a son no lesse valerous in armes then himselfe, af­ter by force he had ceized this isle, caused a strong castell to be built vpon a little promontorie which reached far into the sea, where it was diuided into two maine rockes hid­den within the waues. And would not permit any other port in all the isle but that, which he appointed betwéene these two rockes, at the end and extremitie of either wher­of he commaunded to make [...]ast a great chaine of yron to run a crosse, which lay commonly very low within the wa­ter: But when any vessell was come in to come to an An­ker in the hauen, two mē who wa [...]thed for the purpose vp­on the top of a towre néere hand, did hoise it vp in suc [...] sort, that he might not put out againe without the good will of the giant. Who pillaged in this manner, and greatly do­maged all those who arriued there: and if peraduenture [Page 49] he found any knight that did resist or would not obey his will, he ouercame them by force of armes, and then com­manded to thrust them into a stinking and darke prison.

The marchants and others traffaking by sea, spoiled of all they caried, he caused them cruelly to be put to death: so that all who had notise of this tyrannie, did shun this road as a daungerous quicksand or gulf. In this Isle was there moreouer a greater aduenture: for in the time of the Gen­tiles there was a rich priest, a great Magitian, and a sear­cher out of secret things, high priest of the sanctuarie of the Temple, and beside chief of the Economicall and politicall gouernment of this prouince: who hauing one very faire daughter, chast and adorned with all vertues requisit in a virgin, did consecrat her to the seruice of the Oracle. It fell out the duke of Fera, a verie comly and gallant yong gen­tleman, fell in loue with her, onely by report hee heard of her: for he had manie times heard tell, that in beautie and comelinesse shee did excell the most properest of all those parts: therfore did he send to the prelate to demand her for his wife, but many times as he sent, he had his labor for his trauell, because her father would neuer be farre from her.

And euen as the messenger which is sent twice or thrice into one place to obtaine something of a man, would saine haue, séeketh by all meanes possible to satisfie his desire who requesteth it, rather to auoide the paine and shame to be alwaies talking about the matter, then for any zeale & good deuotion which he hath towards him: euen so fell it out with the bearer of this embassage: being vexed to goe and come so often without doing any good, did bring at last to passe, that he talked one day with the maiden, whom hée gaue so swéete a lesson, and set such a glosse vpon his rea­sons to make a priuie marriage, that shée was rauished in loue of the Duke, and promised him, if his master would come to take her away secretly from her fathers house, she would go willingly with him.

The duke vnderstanding this embassage made hast pre­sently [Page 50] to the isle, where being arriued, he aduertised the Damsell, who sent him word backe he should goe stay for her in a certaine place néere her fathers pallace, where she would not misse to méet him, so soone as his people should be asléepe. But the preist who by meanes of his Magicke had preuented all these practises, knowing the place where the lord of Fera attended for his daughter, caused from the mountaine to descend two fierce lions enchaunted: These cruell beasts rushing in with a hideous roaring vpon the miserable Duke (who by no meane knew how to preuent such ambuskadoes) began to fawne on him in pittifull manner: meane while this young prince losing at that in­stant all power to defend himselfe against the rage and fu­rie of these infernall beastes, was quickly torne in pieces. Which his Squier beholding (too pittifull and lamenta­ble a spectacle) who was come alone to accompanie him, exclaimed with such a fearefull crie, as the Damsell who had her eares most attentiue to listen, heard it easely, so also did some other of the house, who running forth with burning torches to know what was the matter, found the Duke alreadie dead: Whereof the maiden being ad­uertised, she ran out of the pallace as a body possessed with a spirit or mad, to goe to finish vp the sacrifice. So vnsuffe­rable was the griefe and sorrow she had to sée her future spouse lie so cruelly massacred, that taking his very sword, set the pommell against the ground and the point right vnder her breast: then cast her selfe with a great stresse of bodie vpon it, thinking to pierce right vpon her heart, to which she would not giue one onely moment of life after the death of her louer: For all that she was frustrate of her attempt, for the sword passing thorow the right side, she fell vpon the dead bodie, still full of life, where making ma­ny complaints with sighes and sobs as fast as one could follow another, she wrot with her owne bloud vpon a pa­per which she found in her bosome, twelue lamentable verses in forme of an Epitaph. To the which knowing [Page 51] her death drew néere, shée adioined onely these last words.

If it be so (O choice paragon of courtes [...]e) that for my sake you haue endured the shipwracke of this life, it should be for euer to mée too great a remourse of conscience, if the very houre I had not done as much to make the expiation of your funerals so much the more accomplished. And to the end my father may know the more then sodaine rash­nesse of his counsaile, I wil now leaue him such relikes, he shall haue certaine testimonie thereof. Wherein for that his repentance shall come too late, I pray him in recom­pence, to burie our two bodies togither in one tombe, com­manding for a perpetuall memorie of our sorrowful trage­die, this Epitaph to be engrauen ouer vs:

Hauing written this Epitaph, she paid the humane tri­bute vnto nature, for neuer afterward her passible bodie, receiued any motion of the vitall spirits, and it is no fa­ble to die of loue-sicknesse, if with the auncient histories wée will conferre a million of moderne and late wri­ters. But to returne to the highpriest, when hée heard that his daughter was ranne towards that cla­mour, hée followed her incontinent, for feare [Page 52] least shée should make awaie her selfe, and finding her al­readie dead, with her Epitaph as yet in her hand: hée was in great daunger to haue made the third person in this pitiful tragedie. So vehement was the anguish which seased his sorrowfull soule, that he remained long time without speaking worde, as a man forlorne: and sure the sorrow and indignation that he endured, had made him die in the place, if for all comfort he had not broken his silence with an imperfect spéech in this sort.

Alas, miserable and wretched man, if thy knowledge did serue thée to act and effect the death of the duke of Fera, why was it not sufficient to preuent that of thine owne daughter? Ah in a cursed houre was I counsailed euer to take that deadly oportunitie. Manie other gréeuous com­plaints poured hee out ouer those two dead bodies, who might be truly cōpared to Piramus & Thisbe: notwithstan­ding after that he had shed ouer them many teares, accom­panied with innumerable sighs, he gaue order that a faire and rich tombe of brasse should be erected, in which after he had embaulmed them, according to the ancient ceremonie of funerall rites & pomps, he caused both their bodies to be buried togither, with a great conuoy of mourners, and the Epitaph aforesaid to be engrauen round about the same. Some few daies after, thorow the griefe and melancholie he tooke, séeing himselfe depriued of his lawful heire, and in that behalfe the order of nature peruerted, he also lest this mortal life, but first did he shut vp & make fast the treasures ofthe temple by such enchantment, and with so fearefull a guard, that since the time he died, the accesse vnto it hath bin very dangerous. So that vntill the time Marcomyr ar­riued there, no body could euer enter into it, albeit before Baledon had seased into his hands the Isle, a great number of knights of diuers countries had béene there to trie what they could do: and thither came also for the same effect the giant himselfe, who being in a great chafe, he could not tell how to approch y^e tēple, because the isle séemed to him plea­santly [Page 53] scituated, and very goodly to behold, he inuaded it by force of armes. So that the people thereof, could neuer resist his hostilitie.

But returning to our purpose, Marcomyr being arriued in this isle of Delphos, one of his marriners who knew al these things wel, told him of this mischieuous giant, and besought him in any wise not to anker in this port: for we shall all abide by it quoth he either dead or prisoners. How so, quoth Marcomyr, is there no man in the world who can abate his pride, and chastise his so great tiranny? If God helpe mée I will sée, séeing fortune hath guided me hether, and if I be sonne of the Emperor Cleodomyr I should not feare this lubberly kind of giants, resembling rather sence­les brasen pillers in their monstrous statures, then any hu­maine creatures, and lesse any other strange aduentures, be they neuer so difficult and dangerous: for if I will win praise and immortall honour, I must a long time follow the exercise of warfare, as he did in his yong yeres, domp­ting many such monsters, and atcheiuing fortunatly innu­merable enterprises: Turne then the prow to landward, and let vs enter hardly into the hauen, without making your selues affeard of this slouenly and villanous Golias: Then the Pilots, albeit sore against their will, leauing the shore directed the helme right betwéene the two rockes, where they were no sooner entered, but they saw them­selues shut in with the chaine which was hoised vp behind thera: whereat all of them were sore dismaied, except Mar­comyr and Ozalias, who equipping themselues with gant­lets and their helmets, which they had laid downe a little before to refresh themselues, did prepare to the defence, if peraduenture it came to any matter of blowes. The giant being aduertised there was in the hauen a rich ship fast en­closed within the chaine, commanded his son to take arms and goe accompanied with some others to take them all prisoners which were come in: wherevnto the yong ty­rant obeied, and being well armed with thrée knights en­tred [Page 54] into a squiffe: then comming as fast as they could rowe directly to Marcomyrs vessell, who was alreadie vppon the hatches, began to boord him with these prowd spéeches:

Knight how durst thou presume to enter in here, with­out our license? I haue truely béene so saucie this once, quoth Marcomyr, and the reason is, I make small account of cowards and base companions, such as thy selfe, who by damnable treacheries entrap people within this port, that you may afterward vse all crueltie and fellonie tow­ard them: but now it is time you receiue the due guerdon of all your execrable brutishnes. With these wordes the giant was so eager, and fell into such a rage, that hée com­manded his rowers and marriners by and by to grapple fast to the ship of Marcomyr, thinking to enter as soone [...] hée came to her: but it fell out otherwise, for the prince who was as hardie as a lion, séeing he must either di [...] there, or shew in armes some notable act, knew full well how to repulse so great a furie as that. And began to reach him very great and maruellous slashes, which hée might doe at his ease, for the giants barque which was [...]ery low vnder him, reached but to the height of the lower decke of Marcomyrs ship which gaue him some aduaun­tage in fight. In the which if they two shewed the lit­tle good will that the one owed the other, yet Ozalias and the thrée knights of the Isle, made it appeare that they would not be scant good freindes together againe in hast. So fierce and sharpe appeared the conflict of two a­gainst foure, that the sonne of Baledon féeling himselfe put to the foile by his enemie (whom he could not strike at his pleasure) resolued to put himselfe in hazard, when rea­ching vp with his hand vpon the side of the hatches, hée thought to leape into the ship. But Marcomyr who slept not a winke in this skirmish, lighted a great blow vpon his arme, which sliced it quite from his shoulder: where­with the giant, by reason of the extreame paine he felt, [Page 55] fell downe halfe dead within his vessell, making a noise as if it had béen the raine and fall of some Obelisque or Pyra­mide. In the meane time Ozalias fetcht such a beake vpon the skull of one of the thrée knights, that he cleft him downe to the iawes: whereat the giants skippers be­ing sore amated, retired as fast as they could row to get quickly to land:

As soon as some of them were gotten on the sande, they ran with all spéed to giue Baledon vnderstanding of the spéedie dispatch of his sonne. When the giant heard the newes, he began to rore like a bull, with such a horrible and hoarse voice, crying: Ah, Ah, Iupiter! As my sonne dead, If so it bée, I will take the most cruell reuenge that euer was heard of: neuerthelesse I cannot thinke that the gods haue so farre forgotten themselues, as to destinate my sonne to so infortunate a disaster. Hauing ended this spéech, he commaunded his armes to be fetcht him incontinent, the which hée began to put on, when they brought vp into his chamber his sonne halfe dead, whom when his eies had séene, his heart began to rise so strangelie, that it had almost burst for sorrow. And of such inward bitternesse and passion did clearely demonstrate all his outward parts of his bodie, for besides he could not hold still nor armes nor legges, it séemed a burning flame of fire procéeded from his mouth, eies, and nose­thrils.

The two knights who had saued themselues in their barke, and some others also which had staied on the shore, spake a thousand outragious words and villanies to Mar­comyr, assuring him one would spéedilie come, to make him die a cruell death. But Marcomyr answered, their reproches and menaces did moue him but a little, for their lord being a traitour and an inexecrable ty­rant, their gods should know, it were not lawfull to suffer him to liue any longer in this world. And to [Page 56] come vnto his desire he had good confidence in them they would giue him miraculous power. And if he be such quoth he, and so valiant as you make him, let him come hardly to encounter me in single combat, in the which if I bée so much fauoured of Mars and fortune that I get the victory, let him accomplish only what I shall bid him, and I will saue his life: cōtrariwise if I be vanquished of him, he may doe with me and mine what he shall best thinke good. Wherefore to the end hée know, I haue no feare of any such brauadoes, if he wil giue me safe conduct of the single combat, and assure me I shall not be hurt, but by himselfe, I will presently come a shore to defie him to the combat.

CHAP. VII. How Marcomyr landed to combat the giant Baledon, whom he vanquished, and afterward deliuered many knights out of his prisons, amongst whom were two young princes Moores, who as they were sailing to the Emperours court, were by tempest cast a shore in this island.

FRéely did the Prince of Tarsus speake to the lookers on, whilst one of the knights who was before escaped from him, ha­uing heard all his discourse, went imme­diatly to giue the giant notice thereof: who being before departed from his pal­lace, marched so furious and full of rage, that he made all his familiars and those of his owne house a [...]eard. Uery glad was he to here the embassage, and approching the shore, called alowd to Marcomyr. Hocaitife knight, wilt thou performe as much as thou hast sent me word, to come a shore, and receiue with a good wil the death thou knowst iustly by thée deserued? I will assuredly made answere Marcomyr, if thou wilt promise to sauega [...] mée from the inuasion and iniurie of those who are [...] thée. I assure [Page 57] thée, quoth the giant, and further by our gods sweare vnto thée, to doe whatsoeuer is thy pleasure, it fortune be so con­trarie, that I be vanquished in the fight. Marcomyr hea­ring him say so, commaunded that some of them would lanch out a boat vpon the water, and he would come a land to him presently, wherevnto his marriners made no great hast, for feare they had to loose it: neuerthelesse séeing him so couragious (for little was he affeard of this enorme and monstrous creature, not respecting what inequality there was betwéene them two) durst not denie him. Quickly sai­led he out of the ship, carrying along with him but only O­zalias his cosin, who would neuer forsake him. In the meane time Baledon went to attend him in a plaine, hard vnder the castell, commaunding vpon paine of death all those of his side should not once stirre against his enemie. Who be holding but only his countenance and grim lookes trembled like an aspen leafe, meruelling this knight had e­uer the heart to méet him face to face.

Already the two champions haue drawne their swords, lie close vnder their sheildes, and begin so drerie a battell, smoaking one another, that you would haue iudged a hun­dred smithes had ben a worke, beating their yron plates vpon their And-fields. But the giant raged, because his enemie held him so long resistance, therefore he charged him such a blow, that if he had not cunningly shrunke a­side vnder his target, he had ben in danger to haue ended his life there. Wherefore the prince féeling himself in this perill, his stomacke and courage came to him more by half then it was before: and finding himselfe in such a furie as is the wild boare at the bay of the dogs when he is chased into the toiles, hit him such a gash vnder his roundache, with his full force, that peircing his harnesse cleane tho­row, he cut his flesh to the bone. So that afterward hée could not at his ease wéeld his great buckler, wherby Mar­comyr neuer cast blow afterward in vaine: whereat eue­ry one wondered much, séeing him holding so long with [Page 58] the giant. At length Baledon saw he could not strike his e­nemie as he would by reason of his admirable dexteritie, wherewith he saued himself, and beat aside still his blows: purposed to come within him, to the end he might crush him in péeces with his foule great fiftes, so that he put his sword in his yron hangers, and then fell loutishly vpon him like a heauie log of wood: but Marcomyr holding his point firme against the giants bellie, which by chance had lighted in the iointing betwéene two plates, thrust it so farre in, that Baledon hauing his belliefull, waxed pale and chaunged his coulour: And although he pulled it out with his hands, yet by the aboundance of bloud that he lost by the two woundes which weakened more and more his strength, hée could not deale with him as hée de­sired. Which in the end made Marcomyr victorious, for hée being strong and lustie, stirred so nimbly betwéene Baledons armes tugging and strugling that they fell both two to the ground, where the ancient mother of vs all, did so much fauour Marcomyr, that she receiued the giant first and néerest vnto her, being very féeble by cha [...]ing his last wound, from which the bloud gushed out asfast as it could bubble. But he got as well as he could out of his clutches, albeit not without great paine. Neuertheles knowing he had now no more power to rise, cut a two the strings of his morion and vncased his foule loggerhead, saying: yéeld Ba­led [...]n at my mercy, & cause to be brought hither before me all the prisoners wrongfully detained in thy dungeons, or thou shalt die presently with the tranchant of my sword.

When the giant perceiued himselfe in such dolefull per­plexitie, and so bad taking to defend himself, he murmured these words softly with a heauy chear. Ogodshow strāge and diuers are your iudgements, permitting my son and I to be so easily vanquished by one only knight: Alas, I sée all this proceedeth from the infinitie of offences and vici­ous acts I haue committed against you, & done vnto men. But séeing by condign reward I lose miraculously my bo­die, [Page 59] suffer not I beséech you my soule to descend into the infernall lake to remaine there in tor [...]t perpetually. And you knight shew me so much fauour for my soules last comfort before it depart out ofthis world, that I may once yet sée her whom I haue heretofore loued as my selfe. When he had ended these lamentations (which none could well vnderstand, for death which had alreadie seased vp­on part of Baledons carkas, caused him to strammer and to alter his spéech) he called the people to him, commanding they should forthwith bring the knight vp into the castell to consigne into his hands, all the prisoners which were in chaines, and to obey him in all things as if it were his own person. Then went Marcomyr and Ozalias with two or thrée oftheir people towards the pallace, where in y^e great base court they met with the giants wife, who lamented bitterly for the great mischance of her sonne and husband, cursing and blaspheming the knight who had plonged her in that goulfe of sorrow and anguish. But for all that, Mar­comyr letted not to goe into a faire hall below, where hée commaunded they should bring before him all the priso­ners: of whom there was great number as well of knights, marchants, and other traffickers who had a long time remained in this captiuitie. And these poore soules came so sad and comfortlesse, thinking ere long to be deliuered to torment of death, but when they heard say (by those who conducted them to Marco­myr) that the giant and his son was slaine, there was all, as many as they could finde within the prisons of the castell, their sorrow was turned into an vnspeakeabe ioy. Moreouer the Prince commaunded to be brought before him, the armes of all the knights, to the ende euery man might recognish his owne to arme themselues quickely therewith who then perceiuing this man should set them frée from so miserable slauerie, fell downe all at his féet to thanke him, euery one praying his God to guer­don him, for so great a benefite as hée did t [...] them all. [Page 60] But amongst the rest there were two yong men, very pro­per and well fauoured (for they were but arriued in that place not long before) who shewed by their Physiognomie to be descended ofsome illustrious and heroicall race: both of them said they were Moores, the one was Rifaran son to Trineus Emperour of Almaigne, and ofthe Infant Au­rencida, the other Lechefin son of the Soldan of Persia, the youngest of the thrée, which the Princesse Zephira had by him. These yong gentlemen were both two brought vp together by the Soldan, because he knowing the do [...]ilitie and good inclination of Rifaran, did hope to sée him one day a valiant knight. Therefore being both the son ofhis sister and of the Emperour Trineus his great freind, hée loued him as if he had ben his owne child. This Rifaran béeing come to the age of ten or twelue yéeres, became so studious of all vertuous actions that vpon a time talking with his mother, he praied her to shew him plainely the cause why she was alwaies lockt vp, and clothed in mourning wéeds, whereof she made him the whole discourse: deciphring in few words vnto him his genealogie, assuring him the prince Trineus Emperour of Almaine was his father. When Rifaran vnderstood he was sonne of one of the prin­cipall houses in Christendome, he began to make better estéeme of himselfe, and to shew himselfe in all things more sumptuous then before: so that being come to the age fit to receiue knighthood, he besought the Soldan he would honour him therewith, who gaue him willingly the acol­ladoe: and for the same occ [...]sion was there made a great and magnificent feast, in the which he alwaies won the honour and price of many Iusts that were held there. Af­terwards he left the court life, and continuing militarie profession he did so great and maruellous actes in armes, that he was much renowned, and hath his neuer dying praise spread thorow all the Marches and Prouinces of Persia, whereof the Soldan was so glad, that he sought many times to marrie him with the only daughter of king [Page 61] Maulerin. But he would neuer heare on that eare, for he had concluded in his mind, first to goe visit the Emperour Trineus his father: the which Aurencida his mother (who died not long afterward) did of all loues persuade him to: to the end the emperour séeing the fruit of his loues, by the obiect of his person, might know they were not vaine in the time they were acquainted together: Wherevnto a­gréed most willingly R [...]faran, and after he had finished the obsequies and funerall pompes, in such sort as the great­nesse of so high a princesse did require it (for he would ne­uer breake her cōmandement) he demaunded license of the Soldan to passe to Constantinople there to sée the court of the Emperour Cleodomyr, & from thence to take his iour­ny to that of his father in Almaine. The Soldan gaue him license, albeit sore against his will, but yet more against the will of Lechef [...]n, who loued Rifaran as his owne soule: therefore besought he most humblie his father to let him goe with him for companie: for by this meane quoth he, I shall quickly moue my cosin to returne, which pleased wel the Soldan: wherefore incontinently he knighted him, although he were yet very little and yong in yeares: Be­side before their departure, he bestowed on them goodly presents, and Zephira his wife gaue them both letters di­rected to the two Emperours Cleodomyr and Trineus: af­ter wards when they were gone to shipboord with thirtie knights well furnished and equipped with all necessaries for them: there aro [...]e a mightie storme at sea, which for­ced them to anker in the goulfe of this Isle of De [...]phos, where being lockt in with the chaine, and made fast by the giant, being all weatherbeaten, they saw no other remedy but to goe on land to refresh themselues there. And being freindly entertained by the giant, as soon as they were dis­armed, he caused them immediatly to be both put in prison: then going strait to their ship, s [...]ue twentie of the knights who came with vs, sauing the life of the other ten, to s [...]rue them with the same sauce as they had serued their masters, [Page 62] whom they made kéepe companie in the prison, so sóone as they had pillaged all that was within the ship. Then were presented before him all the arms of the knights who had ben taken prisoners in that hauen, out of which Rifaran and Lechefin did presently choose out theirs, so did in like man­ner the other ten who remained of thirty that came thi­ther, who armed all themselues, albeit they were brought very low and féeble thorow the long imprisonment they had endured vnderthe giant.

CHAP. VIII. How Marcomyr establisheth a verie sage knight for gouer­nour of the isle of Delphos, of whom he vnderstood the great danger and difficulty of the aduenture of the tem­ple, which hee performeth by slaying the enchaunted wild boare, and vanquishing the knight of the horne.

MArcomyr then caus [...] the people of the Isle to bée assembled, to whom hée made this oration: My freindes and bre­thren, I beléeue you are all ioifull to sée your selues frée from the miserable sla­uerie, in the which Baledon did detaine you, you shall be content to hold hereafter for your liege Lord the iust and good prince Cleodomyr, whom I will intitle vnto this Isle, which I haue now conquested by force of armes: for you know the giant is alreadie out of this world, his wife sonne and daughter are my prisoners, and tied here in chaines to that stonepiller before your eies, whom I meane to send shortly to the Emperour for a present. I pray you in the meane space to liue peace­ably vnder the gouernement of this venerable knight [Page 63] Guillado [...] by name, whom I haue for his singular wise­dome chosen for ruler amongst you, vpon condition hee shall at the Emperours pleasure consigne it ouer into his hands.

Unspeakeable was the pleasure and content they all receiued to become the Emperours vassals, wherefore he caused them all presently to sweare allegeance to him, and then to burne openly the bodie of Baledon for the most e­norme and cruell a [...]es he had committed in his life time. To behold which execution came in all the people of the island, and also to know the knight Marcomyr, vnto whom they brought many presents and gifts who hauing pacifi­ed all things in good order purposed now to trie himselfe in the aduenture of the temple: but the new gouernour dis­suading him from it all he might: besought him he would not hazard himselfe into that perill, wherein many braue knights had most vnfortunately ended their daies: Which made him the more eager to know wherein did most consist the danger: wherevpon Guillador made this discourse vnto him:

My lord quoth he, know ye that the temple wherein li­eth the Priests rich treasure, is enuironed round about with a heath full of bushes and shrubs, for a long time no man hath euer come néere it. Within this heath liueth a furious and cruell wild boare, farre more ter­rible then that which He [...]cules slue vpon the moun­taine Erymanthus in Arcadia, whose bristles on his back are so sharpe & prickly, and of so great and hideous forme, that there is none in the world but feares the sight of him. Such is his rage, that so often as any offers himselfe to enter into the temple, this beast rowseth himselfe from his thorney and wild leare, shaking his head, cracking his téeth, and foming in fearefull sort: then shaking his bri­stellie bodie, hée launceth forth his bristles more sharpe then so manie rasors or arrowes with such a violence, that they pierce quite thorow the best armor, which may [Page 64] be borne by any that shall make head against him. But most of all, he torments them with his great tusks, wher­with he committeth such carnage and slaughter vpon them, who assaile him, that he kils them as fast as they come néere him. You tell me wonders, quoth Marcomyr, yet is there no so difficult aduenture in the world, which may not and ought not to be by m [...]ns hand brought to an end: whereof being well assured and trusting in the helpe the gods will giue me, I will not [...]ease for any obstacle to try my vttermost force, and séeing this enchantment can­not be perpetuall, I will be somewhat the more hardy, ho­ping to prouide me a good target to receiue the boores bri­stles as oft as he shall shoot them.

Soone prouided he what was necessary for such a voiage, for all his companie, both knights, marchants, and others which he had deliuered out of the prisons before, with whom they tooke some of the Isle to conduct them to the temple: Now had Marcomyr caused to be made by subtill and meruellous cunning workemanship, a coat of arms of many canuasses, glued together with waxe sticking fast together, with which he couered all his harnesse, to the end, the boores bristles being launced at him, might not hurt him at all but sticke fast therein: and with this his new gabardine did he march very merrie among the troupe towards the temple, néere vnto which they were now come, where he and Ozalias, vewing the place round about as far as they could sée, could perceiue nothing but thick briars, brambles, thornes and other prickly bushes, so enuironing the temple on euery side, that Marcomyr could find no way to enter in with his horse, which grée­ued him much, wherefore he resolued to make abode there two daies, to sée what might be done: in the meane time came thither to him the people from all places néere hand, who had before heard of his fame spread abroad, for the victorie hée had obtained against the giant and his sonne.

[Page 65]The third day after he armed himselfe with all his har­nesse, and put on vppermost vpon his habergion his new iacket, then taking in his hand a great mace of stéel, wher­with he thought to aid himself in this passage, he went co­ragiously towards the Temple, commaunding all his fol­lowers to tarry behind, wherat Ozalias and Rifaran were greatly grieued: neuerthelesse, not to contemne his com­mandement they remained behind, & fell to deuout praier, that it would please the gods to preserue him from daun­ger of death. Marcomyr began to enter the thickets (ma­king way with his great Mace) when hee saw a knight winding a great base horn before him: at the noice wher­of the furious and fearefull boare rushed out of his den, and setting his taile against the gate of the Temple, staid there for Marcomyr, with such a horrible crackling of his téeth, that the verie sight would haue affrighted the best man liuing.

The Prince in the meane time had scant gotten a place large inough, which was on the side ofthe Temple, by which the brute animall spying him to come in amain, shewed himselfe farre more fierce and cruell than before. For then setting an ende his sharpe and ineuitable bri­stles, he launced them so thick against him, as you would haue thought a dozen Archers could not so soone haue dis­charged their arrows out of their bowes: but for as much as they lost their force by the defensible strēgth of his coat made of waxe for the nonst, they did not pierce his armor, as they had done to many other knights: by means were­of the boare hauing shot away all his darts, came furi­ouslie vpon him with an open mouth. Then Marcomyr (who stoode firme without stirring one way or other) lif­ting vp valiantly his great Mace, stroke him such a blow vpon the groyne, that hée tooke away one iawe, with part of his lower téeth. The boare féeling such a deadly stroke, would haue taken holde of him, to haue pulled him to the ground. But Marcomyr, drawing out [Page 66] quickly his falchion, saued him that labour, by thrusting it déepe into his throate with all his force, pushing it still further in: The boare not able to endure the paine, re­coyled backeward more and more, casting out so great a­bundance of gore blood at his mouth, that the knight was alberaied therwith: neuertheles, holding still his falchion firm in his throat with his left h [...]nd, with the right he re­doubled such monstrous blows with his mace of stéel, that he laid quickly along the infernal beast dead on the groūd. And albeit this were a naturall boare, yet hee was en­chaunted by some diuelish arte: for béeing come into this place by the exorcismes of the high priest, as were the Lions which slue the Duke of Fera, hée had after­wardes charmed him to garde his treasure locked fast within the Temple, neuerthelesse hée was fatallie to die by Marcomyrs hand. And euen as that of Calidonia, which was sent thither to plague that Countrie, died by the hand of Meleager, who afterward sent his head in pre­sent to the faire Ladie Atalanta, to shewe her the expe­rience of his strength: in like manner the Prince of Tarsus, to make his valour appeare to all those who should come thither, cut off the head of this, and in signe of spoyle and trophée, raysed it on the ende of a pole, which he planted in the same place, where he ouer­came him.

Marcomyr hauing then dompted this terrible mon­ster, he thanked the gods for so great fauour, and puld off his false iacke, which he had put ouer his armour, because the boares bristles sticking so thicke therein, it did some­what annoy him. But hee had no sooner laid it downe, when he sawe the knight of the horne making towardes him with a great club in his hand, calling aloude to him with a horrible voice, In a cursed houre hast thou entred this desert, caitife Knight, for thou shalt presently re­ceyue the recompence of thy presumptuous rashnesse. With that he gaue Marcomyr a vile knocke which made [Page 67] one of his knées double to the ground vnder him: but hée béeing valiant and nimble, rose vp quicklie, and began to fetch about so brauely his stéele Mace in the ayre, that a furious and sharpe encounter began betwéene them: The blowes they laid one at the other were very easily heard to those who attended without for Marcomyr, whose eyes might verie well perceiue them by the sparkes of fire, which they sawe flie out of their harnesse, no more nor lesse then dooth the lightning which goeth before the rat­ling of the thunder, when the thunderbolts crackes and breakes asunder.

The battell betwéene them was bloodie and cruell, continuing so long, till in the end being both wearie and tyred, they fell downe néere dead in the place, where Mar­comyr lay in a sownde till late in the euening, when hée came to himselfe againe, and rising vp verie deftly (for he felt no hurt, nor féeblenesse at all) he looked wishly round about him on all sides, and saw no enemie: wherefore he tooke vp his armes to enter into the Temple, the gates whereof shewed themselues alreadie open, which did in­crease in him a farre greater desire to goe in. As soone as he was come néere the great portall, two brazen images which were placed on both sides the wall, began to blowe out thorow two trūpets which they held in their mouths, such a hot and sulpherie aire, that Marcomyr thought hée was fallen into the middest of a furnace perpetually bur­ning. And albéeit by this ayre he was many times re­pulsed backeward, yet stoode he not still in the way, but went forward with all his force (with great wearinesse and paine of his bodie) and still thrust himselfe onwarde till hee past the threshold, where as soone as hee had set his foote within the Temple, hee felt no more that ve­hement heate, but in a moment became so coole and fresh as the day hee departed from Tarsus. Going fur­ther in, hée [...]ound in the middle bodie of the Church, the magnificent Sepulchre of the Duke of Fera, and of [Page 68] the high priests daughter, whereat he wondred much, sée­ing the sumptuositie and riches thereof, besides the rare­nesse of the Art wherewith the building of the monument was supernaturally beautified. He beheld it on both sides, and viewing vpon the lamines of mettell which couered it, the rich sword wherewith she slue the most perfect of all damsels, there came into his minde an extreame desire to make it his owne: so he mounted vpon the iron bars and grates which compassed about the sepulchre, and tooke it in his hand to view it better at his ease: after he had curi­ouslie remarked the artifice thereof, wrought and grauen curiously, he put it to his girdle, and purposed to carrie it a­way with him. Then stept downe from the sepulchre to go further into the Temple, to séeke for the enclosure and cabinet wherein the treasure was hidden. But ere he had gone farre, hee found in the Sanctuarie thereof an aultar where the ancient sacrifices were offered vp, verie costly enriched, and an idoll all of massie golde, which wore an imperiall crowne vpon his head, and a scepter in his right hand, so rich and full of worke, that it were impossible to behold two iewels more rare: being garnished with great collers set with manie precious stones of inestimable va­lue. Round about the aultar were set in order manie Ba­sins of golde, filled with myrrhe, incense, and other swéete drugs, which did yéeld a most swéete and redolent sauour all ouer the place. Round about on the walles, did hang lampes of siluer alwaies burning, the light whereof did giue such a diuine splendour vpon the pearles and preci­ous stones, that it seemed there was some diuine maiestie before whom they did shine. Marcomyr was rauished in beholding these things, wherefore séeing it was then late and within night, he aduised not to depart thence till the morrow morning, to the end hee might contemplate bet­ter at his pleasure all the singularities of that place.

CHAP. IX. The vision Marcomyr had in the temple.

MArcomyr had no sooner laid himselfe downe at the foot of a rich piller, thinking to take his rest and sléepe a little, but he heard the horriblest noise and rumour that might be, and at the very instant fell such a cracke of thunder, that all the roofe and pillers of the temple shaked, and the [...]arth trembled vnder him round about, so that hée thought the temple would rent in sunder, or be swallow­ed vp into the earth, and that the foure elements would haue all resolued into their ancient chaos. Such hideous cries, sighes, gronings and lamentations were heard by him, as he was in such a maze he could not tell what to do: and albeit fearing some new ambuscadoe, he drew forth his sword, yet could he not for all his magnanimitie and martiall valour stand vpon his legs, but fell downe astoni­shed and out of all sense, as if he had ben stroken with a thunderbolt. During this trance, a faire damsell richly at­tired, (whom the old beldame, who did threaten so many things to him in Tarsus, had sent thither for the nonst) came to take him by the hand, saying▪

Arise vp, Marcomyr my deare lord, and come néere to her, who séeing the feare and traunce wherein you are, praieth you not to suffer your heroicall and noble heart to be discouraged for feare of these fantasticall visions repre­sented to your eies: for it behoueth al so braue and accom­plished knights as you are, to passe thus thorrowal strāge aduentures. Bée srolicke then, and repute the happines of your renowne to surpasse that of all the aduentures of this age: for since the first beginning of this enchantment was neuer knight able to enter in here but you: wherefore by iust reason is the treasure yours, which a long time hath [Page 70] ben lockt vp here within, from whence you shall take a­way the idol which standeth vpon the altar, togither with all the other rich iewels which accompanie it to send them for a present to the Emperour your father. Assuring you, hereafter shall bée by your meane accessible and frequented this temple, the which you shall consecrate to the name of Christ, who hath béene a mediatour to his father to direct all your actions so well: To the end hée may bée reuerenced and serued deuoutly in this place, wherein heretofore hath béene nothing vsed but blasphemie and Idolatrie, against his infinit bountie; in making vowes, offerings and sacrifices vnto mortall men. And albeit you are now no Christian, neuer­thelesse from hence forth for my sake become one, for the time shall come you shall say: O thrice and foure times happie houre, you met with mée. And when you haue giuen order for all that I tell you, make no longer tariance in these countries, for in other do­minions and climats is reserued for you a trium­phant scepter, enriched with all honour and immortall praise.

Wée néed not aske whether Marcomyr did meruaile, hearing the voice of the Damsell, who came to succour him in this austere desert, to decipher to him so well his affaires: For the extasie and rauish­ment of his spirits, (who had then séene his counte­naunce) did giue sufficient testimonie thereof. Yet sée­ing himselfe in place fit to speake to this Damsell, hée called his spirits againe to him, and embouldened him­selfe to say thus: Madame, for the honour and reuerence you beare vnto your God, I pray you not to conceale from me, who you are that know mée so well: and I beséech you therein excuse mine vnwise request, for your rare and perfect beautie, which doth prouoke mée to demaund it, doth draw mée into greater admi­ration, then all the other strange visions which I [Page 71] haue now séene: the which I held for friuolous and Diabolicall, in respect of you, who séeme to mée celestiall, and sent hether of the gods into these base regions, séeing that you discoursing so well of the future euent of my destinies, doe comfort my sorrowfull heart with an incredible ioy and content­ment.

Courteous knight (quoth she) thinke not strange at a­ny thing I tell you, for it is long since I knew who you are, and for your prowesse and valour I loue you and estéeme you more then any other knight of this round world, therefore am I come hether, farre from the countrey where I was borne, to make you vnderstand it: Praying you to pardon mée otherwise if I doe not tell you who I am, for at this present your curiositie is not to bée satisfied herein: well will I assure you before long time passe, wée shall sée one another at pleasure together, and then shall you know something of my doings, by a gift which I will request at your hands, which is not now to be disclo­sed. It should bée a great ioy and an vnspeakeable comfort to mée, replied Marcomyr, if you would commaund mée something, in which I might employ the vertue of all my forces, with the perfect deuotion I féele alreadie vowed to make the world know the singu­lar affection I haue to obey you, and to rest alwaies your faithfull friend: Offering my selfe for earnest of this o­beisance, hereafter to serue you as your knight, with pro­mise not to transgresse the least of your commaunde­ments, as long as my life shall dwell in this terrestri­all bodie. And thinke not I will any more importu­nate you to tell me who you are, séeing that it is not your will I should know it, albeit to haue knowne it, had béene to me a thing most acceptable, so that euerie day to me shall séeme a thousand yeares, vntill I sée the [Page 72] hower which you say is so happie for me: But in atten­ding it, I wil accomplish for my part all that which it hath pleased you to giue me in charge, and will dedicate this temple to the seruice of your God, whose faith alreadie hath by your meane greatlie edified mée in this Euangeli­call truth.

Whilst the Damsel gaue him thanks for this good affe­ction, and for his so many amiable spéeches, behold the old beldame came who enchaunted him with the loue of Ce­lestina in his Kingdome, and taking this maiden by the hand saith to her: Come away with me my daughter, and leaue this discourteous and foolish Knight alone, who suffered me to be misued before his presence in Tarsus: for which abuse I hope full soone to bée reuenged on him, by the extreame anguish and passion his heart shall endure hereafter.

Scarsely had she spoken these last words, but both of them vanished away at the very instant, whereat Marco­myr maruelled much, and from that time forward entered into such a déepe conceit of the liuely and perfect beautie of this Damsell, that he had almost died with the thought thereof: for it séemed to him he had neuer séene her second, and in truth he was not deceiued in his iudgement in this matter, as many young louers bée, who in their owne loues shew themselues too fauourable iudges. By and by he thought with himselfe, because the old mother had ta­ken her away from hard by him, this Damsell must sure be Celestina, her for whom he felt so liuely imprinted in his heart, the loue which did encrease in him more euery day then other, at the onely remembrance of this ladie, and forced him first to abandon his kingdome. So great was then the perplexitie of his spirit, because of this amou­rous fantasie, that vnstopping the fludgates of his eies, hée shead a great streame of teares, which were tossed with the impetuous wind of his sighes, so thicke one after ano­ther, that during this torment, he was faine to exclaime [Page 73] thus: Alas, olde mother, I knowe not what thou maiest bée, but well I finde thy spéeches to be true: O that in an ill houre for the happinesse of my life did Ozalias anger thée in my presence. Ah, cruell enemie, why hast thou so soone depriued my sight of the vnspeakable content it re­ceiued, beholding this angelicall and diuine face? Thou diddest permit me to sée her, that I should loue her past all measure, albeit I know not how thy wordes haue pier­ced my heart so farre, that I could not taste of anie more sharpe and corosiue bitternesse: notwithstanding, if this be the obiect of Celestina, (who séemed to mee the fairest, and most exquisite péece, that euer presented it selfe to mine eye) I will neuer rest, till I haue met her once a­gaine.

In this anguish of minde remained the knight long time, so astonished, as if hée had come from the Anti­podes, and accusing himselfe greatly of simplicitie, and want of courage, blamed the olde woman, who had cleane taken away his strength, vnable to stay the dam­sell with him: whose presence and gracious spéeces did so content him, as hee thought him selfe in eternall blessednesse for the while. To bée briefe, as soone as hée perceyued the cleare morning to chase towardes the West the darkenesse of the night, hee resolued to effect all that the vision did commaund him: wherefore he went straight to the Aultar where the riches was, and taking the golden basins, with all the other sumptuous things, hee laide them all on a heape, to carrie them out of the Temple, and spoiled moreouer the idoll of his scepter and crowne which he had about him.

In the meane time were Ozalias, Rifaran, and the o­ther Knights verie sadde and melancholicke, thinking they had lost Marcomyr their lorde; wherefore they pur­posed to goe see what was become of him: and especi­allie Ozalias, who without delay called vppon all the rest to follow him thorowe the same way, which hée per­ceyued [Page 74] his cousin had cut out to the Temple. And béeing come to the place of the combate, they first found the hor­rible boare slaine, whereof béeing most ioyfull, and maruailing much, they amased themselues there all a little to beholde rhis monstrous animall, except Oza­lias, who béeing desirous to sée the Prince, entered as soone as euer hée came thither into the Temple, where sear­ching within a great Chest which hée found, hée percey­ued the principall treasure of the Priest, which did con­sist in so great riches, and so manie rare things, that the valour and excellencie thereof did make them in­comparable, and all humane wits were not able to com­putate them.

Great was the ioy that Marcomyr felt in his heart séeng Ozalias so neare him, so that running to embrace one another, they enterlaced a thousand courtesies, ioyes, and amiable spéeches to each other, when Ozalias first brake foorth into these words, Alas, Sir, howe much haue the Gods exalted this day your prayse, deliuering you from the rage of this infernall beast, and from other monstrous things which haue repaired to you in this wilde habitacle. So that Ozalias blessed and thanked the Planet which did so much fauour Marcomyr.

Then entered Rifaran, Lechefin, and all the other Knights, within the Temple, who all thanked the hea­uens for so great a victorie: And after they had all one after another saluted Marcomyr, hee recounted to them from poynt to poynt, all that fortuned to him after he par­ted from them, except of the Damsell, of whome hée would saie nothing, [...]earing least they should haue some suspition of their loues. But he hastening his departure from thence, prayed Guillador to sende abroade into the Isle to séeke [...]ome learned and vertuous man, to cele­brate diuine Seruice in the Temple, and gaue him large summes of money to repaire the same, and to make large high wayes, that the people might haue accesse therevn­to [Page 75] from all partes: And for that his minde could not yet bée quiet, for the extreame beautie of the Damsell, which appeared vnto him in the vision, had so fired his heart, that hée tooke small pleasure in anie pastime they could deuise to recreate him withall. Wherefore minding to depart thence sodainlie, hée dispatched Rifaran and Leche­fin for Constantinople to the Emperour, to present vnto him the young Giant, his mother, and the other knights, with all the riches hee found in the Temple, from a strange G [...]ntleman who desired greatly to doe him ser­uice. They hauing all taken their leaues of Marcomyr, sayled with a prosperous winde till they were on the coast of Thrace. In the meane time Marcomyr tarried behind in establishing Guillador thorowlie in his gouernement of the Isle of Delphos.

CHAP. X. How Rifaran and Lechefin arriue with their troupes at Con­stantinople, where they were honourablie receyued by the Emperour, and all those of his Court, who greatlie maruailed at the newes of those things which they heard of Marcomyr.

AT the verie time when Rifaran and Le­chefin arriued at Constantinople, ma­nie Barons, and Nobles were assem­bled there at a magnificent and so­lemne feast, which the Emperour helde at the marriage of the Prince of Hungarie, the sonne of King Frisol, the brother of Belca­rin, borne at the same birth with him. This brother who was called Ditreus, the first borne of the two, so soone as he was made knight went to the emperors court, whoenter­tained him curteously, & moreouer being his nephue, loued [Page 76] him with an entire affection, because he saw him courte­ous and ciuill in all good behauiour: so that beginning to make some assayes in the exercise of armes, he gaue great likelihoode hee would proouē in time a wise and valiant knight as fell out afterward to be true. When he grewe to be somewhat acquainted in his vncle the Emperours house, with most of his houshold, he found himselfe so ra­uished and ouertaken with the beauty of Esquiuela, daugh­ter of the Souldan of Babylon, and of Archid [...]anae his wife, that hee was constrayned to loue her with all his heart. By meanes whereof, this young Prince béeing entered vpon a time into the Chamber of his cousin Phi­locrista, eldest daughter of the Emperour, to talke a lit­tle with her, and her sister Melissa, who was brought vp also in this Court: hee found it a fit time and occasion to giue Esquiuela to vnderstande his minde: to whome shee made aunswere modestlie, hee should not hope to obtaine euer of her, a signe of anie other amitie then chast and honest, yet was shée assured, he should be her future spouse.

Ditreus who desired nothing else besought the Empe­perour and the Empresse presenly they would make this a match, who being verie willing to gratifie herein their nephewe, and also to helpe this Infant to a good marryage, betrothed them together by the consent of King Frisol, and at the same instant in verie great haste sent expressely an Ambassadour into Persia, to knowe the Souldans minde, with commaunde to returne with all the spéed he might.

In the meane time he sent worde to the chiefest of the Empire, that they should méete at the Tourney which he had appointed for this feast. For the accomplishment whereof, hée stayed for no other thing, but for the Ambas­sadours returne, whom he had dispatched to the Souldan. These matters were in hand, when Rifaran and Lechefin arriued in the hauen at Constanstinople, where they [Page 77] purposed to anker without giuing the Emperour any ad­uertisement thereof, for they came not in such equippage, nor with so great traine as they deserued. Being therefore armed thorow out in all parts, except their helmets, they rode thorow the cittie with two only squiers, who carri­ed their helmets, and were séene of euery one. For they did shew by their pace and countenance to be nobles, strā ­gers, and of a great house, which they made them well know at the pallace gat [...], when they would haue gone in without any leaue at all. But the guardes staied them a little, to demand whom they would speake withall there. We are (quoth they) two knights of a strange coūtry, who come into these parts to sée and serue the Emperour Cleo­domyr: you must then said the garders, leaue here your of­fensiue armes, if you will goe where he is, or tell vs your name, to the end we may go know whether it be his plea­sure you shall come thus into his presence. Our arms will we not giue you, quoth Rifaran, for that were a thing not beséeming knights. Neuerthelesse goe tell your maister here is Lechefin sonne to the Soldan of Persia, and of the princesse Zephira, and with him Rifaran sonne to Trineus, Emperour of Almaine, who desire to kisse the hand of his maiestie: the Emperour had no sooner heard their names, but he was the gladdest in the world, hearing these good newes to come so fitly for his purpose: so that he sent to méet them Diocles his son, with many other knights to en­tertaine and welcome them. Then the blackamoore prin­ces perceiuing how all the rest honoured him who mar­ched formost, they iudged presently he must néeds be the son of Cleodomyr, wherefore they both lighted quickly: and Diocles came to embrace them with the greatest courtesie he might, gréeting them thus: Gentlemen ye are verie welcome into the house of the Emperour my father, who is very ioifull of your arriuall: then taking them by the hand, conducted them into the presence chamber where the Emperour was, who séeing them come in, rose out of his [Page 78] chaire, and embraced them both graciously, and causing them to sit downe by him, welcommed them in this man­ner. Know yée my cousins that I find my selfe in some thing greatly beholding to you, séeing you are come so far from your countries to visit me, and to the end I misse not to call you by your proper names, tell me I pray you which of you is Rifaran: albeit I cannot wel affirme which of you I loue best. For desiring with a singular affection to continue the loue, which I beare to the Princesse Zephi­ra, I ought by consequent to loue and estéeme all that commeth of her. And on the other side as well for the fi [...]me amitie confirmed from our tender yeares betwéene the Emperour Trineus and me, as also for the néere af [...]ini­tie wherewith we are allianced together, I am constrai­ned to loue his linage and osspring. Assuring you I could not at this present sée any two yong princes in the world of whom I should be more glad at this present then of you two, descended from so roiall parents our good friends and confederats, the Soldan and Zephira: of whose health I pray you let me vnderstand, for it is long since I had any newes from them. My lord, then replied Rifaran, wée left them in very good estate and meruellous good dispositi­on of their persons in Persia, from whence, kissing by vs humbly the hands of your excellent maiestie, they write vnto you only but these thrée or foure words, in signe of the great loue and reuerence they beare you: and be­cause they could not come themselues, they haue sent Lechefin their sonne, who is the same young man whome you sée there. Then Lechefin kissed his mothers letter to deliuer it to the Emperour, who alter hée had taken and opened it, began the tenour which followeth.

When the Emperour had made an end of reading this letter, Rifaran began to make relation to him how they met in Delphos, a knight called Marcomyr whose valian­cie and Prowesse had no second in the world (except the Emperour himselfe, who was the myrrour and paragon of all chiualrie) to be compared vnto him: but they were sorrie for one thing, they could not tell who he was, for so much he himselfe would not let them vnderstand, but kept himselfe as close as might be: then hauing all their priso­ners and presents in a readines, he framed this spéech vn­to him: Most illustrious and generous monarque Marco­myr the magnanimious and hardie champion who deliue­red vs out of the most cruell prison of the giant Baledon in the Isle of Delphos, sendeth vs now (with all these priso­ners, goods, and riches which you sée) to your maiesties highnesse, as to the prince and lord of the vniuersal world, whom hée hath knowne by your renowne most worthie thereof, assuring himself so far of your naturall lenitie, that you will pittie our disasters, and helpe to conduct vs home to our owne houses againe.

The Emperour then and all the asistance, beholding the crowne, the scepter, the booke, and the chaire wherein the Idol sat in the temple, beside the great abundaunce of other rich iewels and vtensies so excéeding rich, excellent [Page 81] and rare that they neuer had seene the like before, [...] into great admiration thereof, and taking vpon his hande the clasped booke, with all the strength he had could not vn­claspe it, nor anie of his barons who were present with him: wherevpon he said, This booke, in mine opinion, cannot bee opened but by the hand of him that hath con­quered it, wherefore I commaund that it bee safely kept till his comming. By and by sent the Emperour to dis­arme these two knights, and commanded that they should haue two rich Turkish gowns put on them, in the which it was a goodly [...]ight to behold them. In the meane time came the Empresse, and all the yong Ladies her daugh­ters, to the end they might sée the precious & rare things which Marcomyr had sent, and hearing Rifaran relate vn­to the Emperour, howe Marcomyr had conquered the Isle, ouerthrowne the Giant and his sonne, atchieued the aduenture ofthe temple, spoyled it, slaine the enchan­ted boare, and vanquished the Knight ofthe Horne, shée was in a great woonder who he should be: no lesse was the Emperour, béeing entered into so extreame a desire to learne what he might be, that he enquired of Rifaran, whether he were Moore or Christian. As I thinke, then quoth Rifaran, he is a Moore, neuerthelesse, hée vnderstan­deth perfectly well your tongue, and withall nature hath framed him so faire and well proportioned in all his li­neaments, that I neuer in my life beheld a more proper person.

Might it please God to graunt vs the fauour, quoth the Quéene, that this Knight would once come into our Court, to the end wée might giue him condigne guerdon and thankes for the great honour he deserueth. Still the Emperour was bethinking himselfe who it should be, at the last calling to minde the wordes the Damsell spak [...] in his Court, and departed away sodainlie without any answere, hée doubted the Knight whereof shee spake, should bee him who sent thither this present: for hauing [Page 82] finished the aduenture of Delphos, hée could not choose but be as braue a Knight as anie liuing. In summe the Emperour did not so much maruaile at the magnificence and riches of this present, the sumptuositie whereof might not onely compare with all the treasure of Xer­xes, Iulius Caesar, or Alexander, but also did farre ex­céede all the reuenewes of his Empyre, as at the aduen­turous feates of armes and renowmed chiualrie of the Knight whome he yet knew not, but did desire to sée him in his Court, to the ende hée might honour him according to his desart.

To manie Knights of the Emperours traine séemed these woordes verie peremptorie and odious, who from that time forwarde purposed in themselues (if peraduen­ture Marcomyr came into the Court) to proue their va­lours agaynst him so, that the Emperour might haue occasion to remember himselfe hée had spoken but by way of affection: Neuerthelesse he did not perceiue their conceyte, but replenished with a maruailous ioy, com­maunded by all meanes they should giue order to get all things in a readinesse agaynst the next Triumph which was then at hande. To the which flocked daylie manie Knights from diuerse Countreys, whome the Emperour entertained and feasted royally, Rifaran and Lechefin, shewing themselues the most braue and sumptuously ap­parelled amongest them all, next after the Emperour himselfe, which procéeded of the liberall presents be­stowed vpon them, albeit most of all for the great fa­uour towardes Lechefin, who after the Empresse with her thrée daughters Philo [...]rista, Florida, and Basilia, had with manie courteous and gratious wordes welcomed and entertained him, discoursing with him long time a­bout the strange aduentures of Marcomyr, he was so ena­moured and rauished with the beautie of Philocrista, that he could not hold his eyes off her, from surueying her ex­terior vertues and graces, iudging himselfe happie and [Page 83] fauoured by the Planets, who had brought him thither to sée the diuine Sunne, whose radiant beames had al­readie so dazeled his eyes, and set all his vitall spirite [...] on fire, that hée felt for Philocrista an extreame passion in his heart, yet durst he not disclose it by anie means, which did enflame him so much the more.

To conclude, the Emperour sent presentlie vnto Delphos one of his principall Knights, with a great troupe of armed Souldiers, to assure it vnto himselfe, for feare least if anie rebellion chaunced, hée should hardlie possesse himselfe of the Castell, and of the whole Isle in his owne name. Giuing him great charge, (if Marco­myr were there remayning still) to pray him by all meanes to come visite the Emperour: but the Knight was not found there, for hée had before hoysed sayle to ha­sten himselfe to Constantinople, as wée shall hereafter declare. Then the Knight inuested himselfe, and tooke possession of the Pallace, whether all the people of the Isle resorted to sée him, and to accept the Emperour for the peaceable and liege Prince of that state, who in the ende translated it to one of Marcomyrs children, and it was indéed a verie goodly and rich countrie.

CHAP. XI. Howe Marcomyr sayling in the Egean Sea, rescued the Souldan of Babylons sonne from the handes of Ocu­rites King of Culacin, who was a rouer on the coast of Greece. How Ocurites fleete is ouerthrowne, hee taken prisoner, and sent to the Emperour Cleodomyr, with diuerse other prisoners by Marcomyr deliuered ou [...] of his captiuitie.

[Page 84] MArcomyr hauing established Guillador for chiefe Iusticer and gouernor in the Isle of Delphos, till the emperor should send some other thither for y^e same effect in his name, he embarked himselfe with Ozalias vpon a Munday morning. Six daies they sailed with a fore-wind very prosperously towards Constantinople, when Mar­comyr resolued to anker in any port of Thrace, whether soeuer it pleased Fortune to guide them, to the end they might vnderstand there some newes from the emperours Court, and of the aduenture of Celestina, resoluing to go­uerne himself according to his occurrence of things which he should learne in those countries.

Eolus and Neptune were so fauorable vnto him, that on the seuenth day he came to surge within the strait of Se­stos and Abidos, where hauing giuen commandement to strike sailes, one of his Pilots, who was aboue in the top­mast, espied at sea many foysts and ships skirmishing cou­ragiously togither: wherevpon Marcomyr got into y^e fore­castell, to sée if he could perceiue what should be the mat­ter: and hearing the great stir and noise which they made in these vessels, especially intwo of them which séemed the principal, and better equipped with warlike munition thē the others, he had great desire to make towardes them. Therfore cōmanded his master to the helme incontinent, to go to aid him whosoeuer had the worst in this fight.

Here must you know for your better vnderstanding of this passage, when the Soldan of Babylon, & Archidianae his wife vnderstood of the match that the emperor was a­bout to make of their daughter with Ditreus the prince of Hungarie, they were very ioiful of so good an alliance: and because they would further it thebest they could, they pur­posed to send him many gifts of great riches, by y^e yongst of their sons, who had not yet receiued the order of knight­hood. He being called Abenunq a fine yong gētlemā, made sute to his mother, to get leaue o [...]the soldan his father for [Page 85] him, that he might after the marriage of his sister soiourne somewhile in Constantinople, which Archidiana liked very well, to the end soone after the Emperour might giue him the order of knighthood with his owne hand: So she obtained this request of her husband, and soone after sent him to sea accompanied with a traine of manie other knights.

Abenunq then sailing merrilie towards the coast of Thrace, he met with Olurites king of Culaquin, and sonne in law to the great Turke, who was estéemed one of the most valiant and noble knights amongst all the Turkish nobilitie, and therefore had the barbarous tyrant bestowed on him his daughter, one of the fairest ladies which was in all the Heathen dominion. This king O­curites, who knew the emnitie and old grudge betwéene the Emperour and his father in law the Turke, rigd out a nauie, to gratifie him the more, and kéeping along the coast of Gréece, sent alwaies before him pinnaces and fri­gates to discouer the Christian failes: so that he caried a­long with him many slaues and captiues then, when hée began to lie in the wind for the Soldans sonne. So soone as this Rouer knew the Prince of Babilon by his flagges and streamers he purposed to set vpon him with a great furie, for he knew his father was the Emperours great friend, and as he had chéered vp his men to the fight, hée came vpon Abenunq his ship, who séeing this vnlooked for encounter, set his men brauely in order to receaue him:

During this conflict, behold arriueth the valiant knight Marcomyr, who being astonished to sée these combattāts so hot, had a meruellous desire to defend the partakers and welwillers of the Emperour Cleodomyr: wherefore hée commanded his marriners to grapple his ship to the kings. Which they did quickly: then drawing his good sword which he found vpon the Duke of Fera his tombe, suddainely he leapt into the vessell where Ocurites was: [Page 86] then began he to lay about him furiously on euery [...]ide, cal­ling thus to him with a sterne looke. Euill for thy profite didst thou euer thinke, king Ocurites to domage so good a prince as is the Emperour of Constantinople: and séeing Ozalias at his side readie to second him in all attempts, they ran pell mell into the thickest of the troupe, where they made so sharpe and cruell a battell, that they forced the enemies to retire towards their admirall. Who gi­uing ouer the Christians with whom he fought, those whom the Soldan had sent towards the Emperour, be­gan to reproch and reuile his owne men, who ran away like dogs from the presence of two single knights. He pur­posed to come forward to méet them himselfe, and mist go­ing to the pot as narrowly as might be, for Marcomyr dée­ming him by his brauing and rich arms which hée saw on his backe, to be the king, ran vpon him incontinent with his sword in his hand, and crost him such a blow ouer his creast, that hée made him féele it smart to the flesh, where hée carried a skar afterwards, as long as he liued.

Ocurites being not able to resist the furie ofthe stroakes which his aduersarie lighted on him so thicke and thrée­fold, was forced to knéele on ground with one knée. Hée thought to rise vp quickly again, but Marcomyr disappoin­ted him, for he gaue him such a knock with his shield, that he laid him along vnder his souldiers féet, who séeing their king so easily vanquished, were put into such a feare, that it was not long after before they carried away the worst, and were taken prisoners for their labour. For the Chri­stian knights which defended the poup, came downe to their aid, so that their ship was taken, and in Marcomyrs hands, who went presently to the king, and for hée would not kill him nor doe him more harme, onely vncased his helmet from his head, and caused him to be put into a cab­ban néere the kéele of the ship, vnder the guard of foure va­liant knights. Whereof Alenunq being aduertised, who looked euery houre for his owne death or imprisonment, [Page 87] leapt quickly vpon the orlop of the ship where hée saw Marcomyr, and thanking him a thousand times, for this good succour, requested very courteously to tel him who be was.

As the knight began to answeare the Prince of Babi­lon, perceiuing him to be the chiefe of al his crue, hée heard a great noise about his ship, it was the brother of king Ocurites who hauing vnderstood the ouerthrow of his bro­ther, and how he was prisoner, grappeled himselfe to A­benunqs vessell, into which he entered brauely maugre all those who did make him resistance, knocking downe on euery side, as if it had béene vpon some yron barre hamme­red on the smiths Antfield. And as Marcomyr saw so ma­ny enemies readie with their arms in hand, hée left the Soldans sonne to run vpon them, which he did with such a rage, that no man can recount the warlike exploits and wonderfull feats of armes he performed in this recharge: for with one blow which he smot Ocurites brother be­twéene the cuirasse and the head peice, he cut his head cleane from his shoulders. Many others forced he to féele the strength of his arme, for ere they had long stood before him, he sent their souls one after another into the infernal lake, making such a bloudie anatomie of these dogs, that it was a great horrour to behold what a slaughter there was. Neuerthelsse so great was the furie he was faine to abide in this skirmish, that he could not escape without two wounds, which were the first he receiued, albeit hée had before fought with the fierce giant Baledon.

Now when Marcomyr had so manfully behaued him­selfe in the dispatch of so mightie an enemie, he still conti­nued his point vpon some other ships of warre, which hée saw yet in fight with those of the Soldan, therefore went he aboord Ocurites gallion to reléeue them with some spee­die succour: wherof as soone as the Turks were aware, they began to run into such a feare and perplexitie, that part of them were forced to flie disorderly, and run foule [Page 88] one of another, part to suffer wracke, and the rest to re­maine slaine in the slaughter, or prisoners in chains. Then Marcomyr commaunded his master, to boord the gallie hée met first, and after he had deliuered out of the hands of the captaine thereof, many slaues, Gréekes, who were tie [...] by the neckes, to bring them to him vnto the ship of Abenunq; who verily had béene quickly captiue and in the mercie of Ocurites, without the valiancie and Prowesse of the Prince of Tarsus, who thus spake vnto the Souldans sonne:

Gentleman I would willingly beare you companie to Constantinople, had I not a voiage of greater importance another way, whether I was sailing, when I saw a farre off your knights so hot in skirmish to defend you from the hands of the Tyrant Ocurites, from whom, thankes bée to God, you are now safe deliuered. Wherefore I pray you doe me this honour, to conduct him safe to Constantino­ple, together with all these Christians, which the barba­rous pyrate had made captiues, beating vp and downe the streights of the Leuāt sea. You shal present them from me to the Emperour Clodomyr, and shall moreouer humblie require him, it would be his pleasure to commit this kan­kered and brutish enemie of the Christian faith vnder good guard, till I come to his maiestie, to serue him in al things wherein I may b [...]st: which shall be spéedily as I hope to shew him my promise in effect, as you also may certifie him.

Sir knight, quoth Abenunq, it displeaseth me much your nauigation falleth not now out toward Constanti­nople, because I should déeme my selfe very happie to bear you companie thether, as him of whom I will confesse the greatest part of my life to depend for euer. Being vndoub­tedly assured (beside you should be very welcome) you would win the honour of the triumph, which is holden at the wedding of one of my sisters, whom the Emperour matcheth with Ditreus prince of Hungarie. In good faith [Page 89] I am sorrie replied Marcomyr, I cannot be present in so good companie, as I beléeue will be there assembled, ther­fore. I beséech you excuse me for this once, and another time I will requite your courtesie.

These words came from his mouth, but in his mind he had another determination, for as soone as he heard of the iousts in Constantinople, he determined to go thether se­cretly without any other manifestation of himselfe, but only in shew of a strange knight, called Marcomyr: with this excuse he tooke leaue of Abenunq, who offered him many presents, but he would accept none, thanking him much for his good will, especially of the assurance he gaue him not to depart any way from the Emperours court, vntill he arriued there, for hée made him a promise before many daies were past, he would appeare there in person, as he requested him to giue the Emperour to vnder­stand, then bidding him adiue, entered aboord his ship, commanding his maister to lanch out a contrary way.

CHAP. XII. How Abenunq arriueth in Constantinople, at whose com­ming the emperour is very glad, and Esquiuela his daugh­ter most ioifull, and how Linides the lord of the island Li­quia, and the County Pelides his cousin, ioust against the knights of the court, and win the best.

ABenunq maruelous glad of the good suc­cour which came at such a pinch, sailed with a fauourable wind till he came to Constantinople, where as soone as hée was arriued, he commanded king O­curites and all the Christian slaues to be landed in skiffes: whom he appointed to march tow­ards the Emperours pallace, to acomplish the message which Marcomyr had giuen him in charge: whereof the [Page 90] emperor being aduertised, demanded what meant this troupe of prisoners, when one of the principal knights of Abenunq who went before to make them march in order, answered in this sort, If it please your maiestie, it is the king of Culaquin, sonne in law to the great Turke, who departed his countrie with a puissant and huge armie to endomage and ruin your empire. By this traitor had the prince Abenunq son to the Souldan of Babilon your ne­phew, and all his traine ben put to sword or to the chaine, had it not ben for the succour of a knight called Marco­myr, second to none other, who rescued vs, and hath now sent him prisoner to you.

These good newes much pleased the Emperour, thin­king Marcomyr had béene come with Abenunq, neuer­thelesse, as soone as he vnderstood he had left him beehind at the streight of Sestos and Abidos he was wroth and sore displeased: surely quoth he, albeit it gréeueth me I cannot haue him in my house to recompence him as his prowesse and courtesie deserueth, yet hereof may the king Ocurites well vaunt himselfe: for were it not for respect of the knight by whom he is vanquished and sent vnto me, I should torment him all the daies of his life with sharpe and cruell punishment, to make him call to mind the fellonie he hath heretofore shewed towards my vassals freinds and confederats. Neuerthelesse séeing I receiue him from the hand of so valiant a man as Marco­myr, he shall be committed to safegard vntil his comming. Then sent he to lock him vp in a high tower, comman­ding he should want nothing néedfull for his life and ease.

But to return to Abenunq, after Diocles and the other lords had with al courtesie entertained him, and welcom­med them al more quaintly for his owne part, he condu­cted him before the emperour of whom he was receiued most honourably, who caused him to lodge in his pallace, in a lodging néere his son Diocles, who as yet was vn­knighted as was he himselfe, whereby grew a great loue [Page 91] and acquaintance betwéene these two, hoping both one day to be companions in arms together. Abenunq dis­coursed then the summe of Marcomyrs message, and could neuer satisfie himself with sufficiently commending his li­berall bountie and vnspeakeable valour, so that the good prince was stil inflamed more and more to sée this knight, for whom he blessed and praised God, who had infused so many perfections into him: the which Rifaran and Le­chefin did confirme by this little word, that there can ne­uer be so much good and honour spoken in his praise, but the merit of his vertues would far excéed the capacity of the most learned and eloquent tongue which should bée emploied to that purpose. After that Abenunq had deliue­red some other matters of his embassage to the Empe­rour, he went to sée the Empresse in her chamber, and as he would haue bowed himselfe to kisse her hand with the more reuerence, the honourable ladie rising vp from her seat to saue him that labour, receaued him wonderfull courteously, and at large demanded him the newesfrom Archidiana his mother: whom the prince answered in al points very sagely, as from his childhood he had ben lear­ned to doe: then came to embrase him swéetly the infant Philocrista and Esquiuela her companion, who could not tell what countenance to make for the extreame ioy shée felt in her mind, hauing before her eies the second highest hope of her heart: and albeit she did all she might to dis­semble it, she was constrained notwithstanding in the end to fill the eares of the assistants with these spéeches:

My dearest brother I know not what greater contēt­ment might happen to me at this present, then to behold your presence in the assemblie, which shall be here one of these daies holden for me, where séeing our parents can­not be present, it hath ben their pleasure to honour me so much as to send you in their place, who I know are as wel welcome to euery one, as all our company of ladies is glad to bid you welcome. Sister quoth Abenunq, the [Page 92] Souldan our father hauing vnderstood the honour which the Emperour doth you in matching you with the prince Ditreus his nephew, hath sent me to giue him heartie thanks, and to offer on his part vpon conclusion of the articles of contract, such agréements as shall like him well, being assured these things so well handled by him, cannot chuse but be acceptable to both parties contracted. As for madame Archidiana our mother, she presenteth you by me many Iewels, rich stuffes, and other exquisite singularities sutable to a princesse of so great a house as you are, to the end on your mariage day, you may shew the maiestie of the race whence you are descended: hereof Esquiuela and Dit [...]eus rested well pleased and satisfied: and now they did but long for the happie hower which should bring them that ioy and contentation which they had so long in heart desired.

In the meane time the Emperour he caused a triumph to be published thorowout all Gréece, and vpon the fif­téenth day following, should the marriage be solemn­ly celebrated, so that you might haue séene what an infi­nite number of knights flocked daily to the court from all parts. Amongst others thether came Linides lord of the island Liquia, he that had done more valiant acts in the ad­uenture of Celestina then any other aduenturer: And of a truth was thought to be one of the best men at armes at that time in all the Empire, thorow the which was al­ready spread the fame of this feast. This knight tooke with him in companie only his cousin, the County Peli­des a hardie gentleman, and so estéemed and accounted of all in martiall affairs, albeit he was yoonger then Line­des. When they were both arriued at Constantinople, they would not enter into the cittie, but encamped them­selues in the plaine a great way from others, and néer vn­to the high way, by which the trauellers did passe, there they raised their tents, and dispatched presently a squire to the court to make known, that whosoeuer would ioust, [Page 93] attending the triumph, he should find two knights readie in the field, who would hold them play: for so had they the night before laid their plot.

As soone as the squire had published his message in the pallace, the Duke de Pera vnderstanding thereof, made this answeare to him: Gentleman my friend, returne you to these champions, and tell them from me, there will be one in the field by and by, who taketh delight in that ex­ercise, & will not refuse to breake a lance or two with thē. With this answere came backe the squire to the two cousins, whose embassage when the emperour had vnder­stood, he imagined with himselfe, these two knights must néeds be Marcomyr and Ozalias his cousin, whereof hée was excéeding glad: and sent Rifaran to take a view of them, who mounting quickly on horsebacke, found Line­des disarmed at the entrance of his tent, and his cousin the Countie readie armed at al points, except his helmet, which was off his head, whom when he knew not, he de­manded whether they were the challengers who had sent to defie the knights of the court: whereunto the lord of Liquia answered, They were y^e men: to whō replied Ri­faran againe: You haue vndertaken a matter which you shall at your ease enioy but a small while, but I beléeue you haue done it expresly to méet with some one quicklie, who might apparantly represse and abate your pride. When it shall fall out so, quoth Linedes, we shall but kéep others companie, who when they cannot bring to passe their enterprises, remain only frustrate of their desseigns: therefore we pray you take no care for our affairs, or else goe arme your selfe: for it is the act of a knight to fight with his sword, and not with his tongue, otherwise you shall infringe the order which euery valiant man ought to hold deare as his life.

When Rifaran had ended these words, he tooke his leaue of them to returne towards the Emperour, whom he assured it was not Marcomyr nor Ozalias: albeit they [Page 94] séemed to be both two braue and hardie knights, and could not be but some puissant and great personages, by their outward apparance. Then went forth many good knights to proue themselues against the County, who for all that carried away the honour from them all without any aid from Linedes at all, who all the while neuer laid hand to shield nor lance, so that the Emperour who was there in the field to see them run, said he neuer saw knight in his life that carried his lance better, nor ran with a better grace then did this champion, of whom he had much maruell, considering his smal corpulence and yong age. Through all the court there was almost none other spéech but of the dexterity and fine cariage which he vsed in his Iousting, whereupon Rifaran and Lechefin deter­mined to run against him: notwithstanding they would not doe it till the last day, to the end the County and Line­des his cousin being vanquished by them, their Prowesse might be knowne, and spoken of aboue all those who should haue receiued any foile in the Iousting. But there came by chance thether some who put them out of that paine, as we shall hereafter declare.

CHAP. XIII. How Arnedes sonne to the king of France, and Recindos his cousin, the king of Castiles son, came to Constantinople, where Arnedes vanquished at the Ioust, Linedes and the County his cousin, for which occcasion they were greatly honoured of the Emperour.

THe French king, father to Lewis Duke of Bur­gondie, in the latter end of his age, after many other things called to mind, how when the peace was established betweene the emperour Cleo­domyr and him he concluded to ally themselues togither by marriage, if God euer gaue them issue so to doe: to the [Page 95] end in the Heroical and generous house of France might be séene to raigne, children issued out of two of the most illustrious ofsprings in feats of armes, which were be­twéene the two celestiall poles: for this cause did hée giue his son Lewis charge, séeing the time and occasions fell out fit for the purpose, that he should call vpon the em­peror to fulfill his promise. The prince marrying with the daughter of Castile, had issue of her thrée male, and two female, both at one burthen, and faire in all perfecti­on. The elder of the brethren had to name Arnedes, who was a wise and valiant knight, and set all his delight in managing armes, and continuall exercise of matiall disci­pline. Now king Lewis séeing his sonne was marriagea­ble, withdrew him one day aside into his chamber, where he began thus: My son, so extreame is the naturall incli­nation of the good will I bear towards you, that I would by no means séeke to doe any thing which might not con­tent you as well as my selfe: this I speake, because your most honourable Grandfather of good memorie being in his latter age, gaue me charge to match you in mari­age with the Emperour of Constantinoples daughter, to the end the children which should be borne of you both, might ressemble in some things their famous and so much renowned ancestors. Wherefore I am determined spéedi­ly to send mine embassador to him for to sollicite this ma­riage, whereunto I beléeue he will giue consent most willingly, and well can I assure you my sonne, that this Princesse, named Philochrista, of age betwéene fiftéen and sixtéene yeares, is one of the fairest and most beautifull creatures, which nature euer brought forth vnder the mo­tion of the spheares. Arnedes when he heard his father deale so secretly with him about such a matter, besought him humbly not to trouble himselfe any further therein, as yet, for he would put him in mind thereof another time more fit for the purpose: the king séeing him so cold, desi­sted the matter. But the yong prince who had heard of the [Page 96] surpassing beautie of Philocrista (who had not her like in all the regions of the leuant) and of the déeds of Chiualrie done by knights in the court of the Emperour Cleodo­myr her father, he could neuer remoue her out of his mind, but in him from day to day, still encreased a most seruent desire to passe to Constantinople, with intent, if this lady liked him to demand her in mariage of her father, where­vnto if he would not giue consent, to exploit such feats of armes in the countries of Gréece, that the honour thereof should at his returne accompanie him homewards. Such was the proiect of his desseigne, which he imparted very willingly to Recindos his cousin, sonne to the Castilian king, & a most valerous and hardie knight, who encoura­ged him to put it in practise, that it might take effect: vow­ing he would til death alwaies kéepe him good & loial com­panie: and the worst were, they could gouern themselues so wisely by disguising of their persons, places, and diuersi­ty of language in this busines, that no man liuing should be able to descrie their persons, or discouer their drifts. The plot thus laid betwéene these two cousins, to take vpon them this voiage, he went strait to his father, who very willingly gaue him his leaue, vpon condition hée should stay as little while as might bée in those countries of the leuant.

So kissing his father the kings hand, tooke his leaue in the secretst manner which might be, taking along with him but onely thrée or foure persons, with his dwarfe, and Recindos his cousin, whom he loued from the entierest of his heart. Towards Marsilia they made with as much spéed as might be, where finding a ship ready for them equipped, they waighed ankers, and set sailes, but had the weather so contrary, that being wearie of trauelling the tempestuous sea, they were faine to put into the first port of Gréece, and send awaie their ship by sea to méet them at Constantinople. One whole day soiourned Arnedes & Recindos in this hauen, and on the morrow hauing put on [Page 97] their rich armors, they road so great a iournie, that by the way they heard newes of the triumph which was to be holden in the Emperours court: whereof being meruel­lous glad, they road so great a pace, that they came to Constantinople thrée daies before the mariage of Ditreus and Esquiuela were celebrated, and iust at the time of their arriuall was the Emperour gone abroad in the euening with many of his Barons, to behold the Countie in his Io [...]sts, where he tooke pleasure in the good adresse he saw this knight had to manage a horse, albeit he was some­what angrie to sée those of his court so foiled by him: wherefore his mind could neuer be at quiet till he knew who these Iousters were: to whome he vsed many cour­tesies, after he knew they were descended of the lord of the island Liquia, whom he vanquisht in his conquest of the Sagitarie. As the emperour then was beholding this Ioust, and the countie had dismounted the sixt knight who entred the li [...]ts, came in Arnedes and Recindos, who had not trauelled far that day: quickly had they put on their helmets, and to one end of the carrier went Arnedes, flu­cing and vauting his horse in the aire, as who would say, he demanded ioust. The County séeing a knight appeare vpon the barres, mounted presently on horsebacke, with a still presumption to coole quickly this assailants braua­doe, but he was farre deceiued: for gallopping as fast as they could, they made such a furious encounter, that they brake their lances within their gantlets, finishing their carier without other harm: then said the countie to Arne­des, Sir knight it is at your choice to haue another bout, if you think good. Content, I am readie, quoth the prince of France, séeing I haue done so little good with the first: then to shew their best before the emperour and other good knights who were there present, they made the se­cond encounter with a far greater furie then the first, in such sort, that the very earth séemed to [...]inke vnder them as they met in their race: the County had the worst, for [Page 98] that without breaking, Arnedes caried him to the ground with his courtelax, neuerthelesse he lost his stirrops with­out euer stirring out of his seat.

The Emperour and all the other lords were very glad séeing the pride of the county laid along, so that they did al highly commend the vnknowne knight. Linedes was full wroth when he saw his cousin lie on the ground before him, in very ill taking by reason of his fall, wherfore cau­sing his helmet to be laced (being before armed at al other points) he was soone mounted, and taking a great launce in hand, Arnedes and he rusht vpon one another in a great rage. Linedes was so chollericke; that hée mist his blow, neuerthelesse his enemie mist not to hit him so full that he bore him backward ouer his horse crouper, and because he would not let goe the raines of the bridle, thinking to saue himselfe from the ground, his horse rose an end, and [...]ell backward vpon him, which brused him very sore, whereby he felt great paine a good while after. But Ar­nedes was as fresh after this Iousting, as if he had not ben in it at all, therefore retiring to his companion, thus quoth he to him: Come let vs goe kisse the Emperours hand, for here is nothing more for vs to doe. Off did they their helmets, and went toward the troupe▪ who maruel­led greatly at the valiancie of the Frenchman: For eue­ry one knew how much Linedes was estéemed through al the land of Gréece.

The Emperour séeing they made the next way to him, went before apace to welcome them: when they offered to kisse his hand: he would not permit, because he did not know them, but embraced them both louingly, saying: My friends ye are most welcome into my countrie, where you haue made me wonderfull ioifull by your great valor performed in your persons: therefore I pray you tell me who you are, and I shall loue and estéeme you a great deale the better: then quoth Arnedes, It is the grace and vertue of your maiesty, who honoureth alwaies knights, [Page 99] although they little deserue it: we are knights of the house of the king of France: for my part I am a néere kinsman of Lewis duke of Burgondy. In good faith quoth the Emperour, your phisiognomie, feature, and all the li­neaments of your body doe bewray you: for that in them you doe very much resemble him, and therefore do I loue you so much the more, for the great honour and pleasure that I haue heretofore receiued of him and his brother. So taking the one in his right hand and the other in the left, he conducted them both into his pallace, where after they were disarmed, he did them the greatest honor which he and all his might possibly deuise.

CHAP. XIIII. How Marcomyr and Ozalias arriue within foure daies iour­nie of Constantinople, from whence they depart after that they had changed their armes. In their way they lodge in an old knights house, of whom Marcomyr vn­derstood the whole discourse of the aduenture of Ce­lestina.

MArcomyr after he left Abenunq in the streight of Abidos and Se [...]tos, commanded his pilots to thrust in with the néerest port to Constan­tinople called Saint Lordin, a coast towne foure leagues distant by land from the cittie. There did he make them cast anker, with charge not to stir thence till his returne. In the meane while he and Ozalias disguising their armours, for fear to be discouered, departed with foure squiers onely for their seruice. That night they lodged by chance at the foot of a hill in the house of a knight, poore in goods, but noble in heart and person, who inuited them very chearfully, and [Page 100] intreated them though not sumptuously and with exqui­sit dainties, yet courteously, and with great humanitie. The greater part of this good entertainement, procée­ding from his wife, and one very faire daughter, which did exactly marke the demeanor of these knights.

At supper time after much other talke, the old knight demanded of his guests, if they went to the triumph at Constantinople, for, quoth he, I came from thence yester­day, wondring much at the great number of nobles, who are come thether alreadie to be present thereat. Then he began to make vnto them the whole discourse of the Iou­sting betwéene the county Pelides and Arnedes, wherein Marcomyr tooke a meruailous delight to hear him talke: neuerthelesse he could not forbeare to say thus much vn­to him: I wonder much in al the Emperours court there cannot be found any knight, who might in valour and chiualrie excell the two cousins and the Frenchmen. Of a truth sir, answered the good old man, it is euen as I say, neuerthelesse I am of this beliefe, if Belcarin sonne to the king of Hungarie, and brother to the betrothed Ditreus had ben there, he would haue depriued the French man of the victory, which he won from the County and Linedes his cousin: séeing they haunt chiualries and worthy feats of armes, for the which he is more and more renowned daily, in guarding the aduenture of Celestina. Nor was there euer knight who arriued there to proue himselfe in the enchaunted combat, since he made his assay in the en­terprise, whom he hath not surmounted and happily van­quished, so that Celestina is yet fast enclosed within the Fairies tower, and shal be vntil some knight morefortu­nate and aduenturous then Belcarin, deliuer her thence. For he hath sworne to employ so well all the sinewes of his strength, that none shall fetch her thence, (séeing hée failed therein) if he doe not surpasse him in valour and prowesse.

Thinke you whether Marcomyr were ioifull or not, [Page 101] hearing him speake of Celestina, when a sodaine and vehement heat (which procéeded from the flame, where­with he felt his heart fiered before for her loue) [...]eised in such manner his members, that in an instant he changed his coulour many times, and his very soule altered all her powers at this only word of Celestina. Wherefore with all instancie the knight praied his host to declare of what race this Damsell was descended, and to discourse at large to him the aduenture, wherein these knights went to trie themselues, thinking to deliuer her: like­wise in what countrie was the castell where the Fairies had deuised this enchantment, for that oftentimes he had heard spéech therof, but neuer man could tel him the truth thereof. Sir, then quoth the old man, vnderstand the dam­sell (one of the fairest and most gracious princesses, as is knowne in this terrestriall habitation betwéene the two tropicks of heauen) is daughter to the king of Thessalie, now prisoner to the great Turke, and was from her cra­dle fatally enclosed in the castell of Carderie by thrée en­chanteresses, ladies of that Isle: who foresaw by their art Magick, that her father who was their great freind, should neuer get out of captiuitie from the infidell, but by the meane ofsome accomplished and perfect knight. So did they deuise the inchantment, that the fame ofthe beau­ty of this damsel, which they had spread throughout al the regions round about, or els the desire to win the king­dome of Thessalie (for he who could set her frée from thence, espousing her to wife, should inherit it after the death ofthe captiue king) would prouoke good knights to trie their fortune in that aduenture: and indéed many repaire thether vpon hope to exploit so happie a conquest, as Belcarin himselfe, who thought to atchieue it at the first: but his strength comming too short, as also that of many others, he resolued to make the accesse to this▪ for­tresse more difficult, vntill he for whome the princesse of Thessalie was destinated, should arriue there, endued [Page 102] with so much valour and magnamitie as should make him by force auoid the place.

This good gentleman told Marcomyr many stories of Celestina, the which he heard attentiuely: with the which his spirit was so much moued, that then he beléeued the words of the old beldame would proue true, and séeing she was able to tell him so many things of Celestina, shée might be very well one of the Fairies which did deuise this enchantment, the abolition whereofhe supposed e­uer afterward was only reserued to him: whereof he felt an incredible ioy in his heart, which prict him forward to prosecute the aduenture. Wherfore he called to him one of his squiers, commanding him to lay vpon the table all the rich iewels and rings, he had at that time, wherof he frankely gaue away the greatest to the good old man and to his daughter, praying him to marry her honourably, and he would furnish a sum of money for a dowery, and all other things necessarie for her marriage. From thence he tooke his iourney very secretly with Ozalias towards Constantinople, and lodged that night within two miles of the citie, where they aduised not to shew themselues, but only vpon the two first daies, and then to depart away to take their voiage towards the isle of Carderie.

CHAP. XV. How Marcomyr commeth vnknowne vnto Constantino­ple, where he won the price and honour of the first Iou­sting, and the morrow after departed the court, fearing to be sought out for the same cause.

THe marriage day of prince Ditreus and the in­fant Esquiuela being come, the Emperour and all his knights put on their richest robes, but a­boue all others, Arnedes the king of France his sonne appeared sumptuous and magnificent, hoping to [Page 103] haue a sight of the princesse Philocrista, her to whom the conquest of his heart was already vowed. All thinges were in a readinesse and good order, when the Empresse came forth with Philocrista and her two other young daughters to accompanie the bride to church, who was so gorgeously attired with iewels and other rich ornamēts, and likewise the thrée infants with many other ladies of the blood roiall, that the great riches which was about their persons that day could not be valued: nor could any humane tongue, were it of the eloquent Demosthenes or Cicero, once approch to tel the worthy praise of their rare and perfect beauties, and especially that of the ladie Phi­locrista. Who comming in sight of prince Arnedes, did draw him into such admiration, that but he had séene her, he could neuer haue beléeued she had beene endued with halfe so naturall perfection. For euen as the sun, the most excellent of all planets, shewing himselfe vpon the Hori­son, through the great & inextinguible light of his beames dimmeth the light of all other starres, dazeling the eies of those who long time behold it, euen so was it with the in­fant Philocrista, whose celestial portraiture, did obscure al other ladies néere about her, and moreouer did much al­ter the iudgement of Arnedes, who being confounded in his sensure, did estéem the perfect beautie of this princesse farre aboue that of the goddesse, who appeared to Paris Alexander in the mountaines of Ida, when she had title to be fairest of the thrée.

Esquiuela and Philocrista arraied in this sumptuous manner, with all curiosity of iewels and womens orna­ments, were mounted vpon two white hacknies, brauely harnessed and trapt to the ground with stones set in col­lets and buckles of gold, finely wrought and embrodered ouer. Next vnto whom rode Diocles mounted vpon a great Barbary horse, caparassond after the turkish man­ner, to conduct the bride, and Abenunq her brother came next the Princesse Philocrista: but Lechefin who loued her [Page 104] not the least, put himselfe on the other side to goe front by front with her, yet for all that, Arnedes (whom Cupido did impatiently maister) wrought so cunningly by his a­mourous deuises, that he got the place finely from him, whereby he might behold her better at his ease: whereat Lechefin fell in so meruelous an indignation, that from thence forward he began to beare him more then a mor­tall grudge, perceauing thereby very well he loued her as well as himselfe. Recindos sorted himselfe with the in­fant Melissa, Ditreus sister, for she séemed to him excéeding faire and gratious: with whom Rifaran, who was her con­duct, made her quickly acquainted by saying: it was the knight who vanquished the earle, and that for his lauda­dable vertues, he well deserued some fauour aboue the rest. By meanes wherof she began to make him discourse of many excellent matters, which she could do meruellous well by reason of the ripe vnderstanding and fine grace wherewith nature had enriched her. For she néeded not to betaught to vse her tongue affably and discréetly.

Here by the way, Recindos was so enflamed with her loue, that as long as he liued, the heat so liuely kindled, dwelt in his heart that it could neuer be quenched after that time. Now if he were wel pleased in mind, the prince Arnedes was no lesse glad for his part, beholding himselfe in that pearle of beautie, which his deare ladie Philocrista inherited from the day of her birth: whom he gaue well to vnderstand by his curious and often looking on her, that he was her entire and perpetuall slaue, yet neuer was so bold to tell her the least word in the world thereof, such a strange humour felt he in his soule, which forbad him to speake.

But in the meane time Lechefin, whose eies fed of her beautie, much gréeued at such an obiect, did rage with gréefe and intollerable phrensie, multiplying in his sto­mack more and more the rage and hatred he bore against him.

[Page 105]When all this honourable troupe was arriued within the principall church of the cittie, the solemnity of the ma­riage was incontinent celebrated with great ceremonie, then after the same order it came, returned with as goodly pompe to the pallace where they did couer for the feast, which was so sumptuous and magnificent in all thinges, that it might almost compare with that of the gods, held at the mariage of Peleus and the goddesse Thetis. The ta­bles were serued in, and the princes and princesses all set and placed in their order, then began a ioifull musicke in the which were instruments of all sorts: here might the louers behold their ladies, whereby they receiued an ex­céeding ioy in their hearts, which they could not dissem­ble after dinner, when they shewed by the agility of their bodies in dauncing, the great desire euery one had to win the fauourable iudgement of his mistresse, to be reputed the finest reueller.

In this iollitie past they that day away with great pleasure and content, till the houre the bridegroome and bride were to goe to bed: when the Empresse her selfe brought the Princesse Esquiuela into the bride chamber, where she left her in a bed, which was richly prepared for her, and the Emperor himselfe brought Ditreus into the same, and soone after euery one retired into his lodging: Arnedes amongst the rest, the ioisullest man liuing in his mind, brake thus with Recindos: How like you cousin, the beauty of Philocrista? did you euer sée a more rare and perfect péece? Ah, I must néeds hasten the end of this my most vrgent businesse: to giue some howers of quiet rest to the anguish of my poore passionate heart, wherfore I am determined to dispatch a post to the king my fa­ther, to the end he send hether honourable embassadors, who shall conclude this marriage with the Emperour. Meane while I will sound the depth of this amourous ri­uer, and I will sée whether the knowledge and wisdome of the spirit of Philocrista be correspondent to her singuler [Page 106] beautie: and if so be her inward vertue second the excel­lencie, wherewith nature hath outwardly endued her, I may repute my selfe the most happie and fortunate knight, who liueth vnder the zones of the heauen, hauing her once in my power.

Surely sir replied Recindos, you may truly praise her, and I pray vnto God in deuout and humble praier, our comming may succéed as well in my behalfe, as I beléeue it will fall out shortly in yours: for as touching my mat­ter, if the grace and courtesie of Melissa doe not giue mée some succourable comfort, I may well assure you, it had bene better for me I had neuer set foot in these countries. Then Arnedes tooke him in his arms and embraced him, saying: O how glad and eased am I by these your words, which haue pleased my hearing aboue all other: Séeing by them I sée you are my companion in all things, repose I pray you your firme hope in him, on whom depend all things, who by his deuine bounty shall direct our actions so well, that with time they shall sort a happie effect. And if it please him to fauor mine affairs that they cary aright and succéed, I will worke yours till they compasse the matter you leuell at. Courage then, and let vs make the Gréeks know France bréedeth as good knights and men of as great valor as any nation in the world.

Upon these spéeches, they went to take their rest till the morrow, when the Emperour went forth into the fields with the Empresse and the new maried couple, who were conducted by the thrée infants to the scaffolds which were richly hanged with clothes of state & tissue, where they might behold the triumph better at their ease. Hard were it to count the number of ladies, gentlewo­men, and others, who were assembled without the citty to view this goodly sight: the scaffolds were thorowly re­plenished, and the presse on euery side the stages so great, that it could not hold halfe the people, for the knights on­ly who came within the lists to Ioust, made vp the num­ber [Page 107] of six thousand; all choice men and braue champions, when they began to come to hands, you might heare the aire ring on euery side with drums and trompets, which sounded the assault, and forthwith the combattants run together, crashing their lances, hacking and hewing one another with their cemitories and courtelaxes. There might you haue séene a thousand blazing starres, by rea­son of the glitring of so many braue frontstals, helmets, sheilds, and guilded armours, faire burnished and shining bright as the sun, or as the Carbuncles in a darke place. Then might you sée vpon their helmets so many rich plumes, mottoes, pensels and fauours, where hanged the deuises and coulors of the ladies of many knights, that it was an admirable thing to behold them: and most im­possible for vs to recount all the other excellencies and sumptuosities of this assembly: neither is it of the sub­stance of our historie to report.

At the first encounter were many knights strangers laid along: the Courtiers behaued themselues gallant­ly, and had surely carried away the honour of the day, had not Linedes and the Earle his cousin stept in, who re­sembling two furious lions, brusht them so thorowly on euery side (to be reuenged of the shame they had receaued by Arnedes meane) that no man durst come néere them. These then did maintaine the field, and did meruellous feats of armes: but Arnedes who of purpose held on the contrarie part, séeing himselfe in presence of his deare Ladie Philocrista, in place where shée might well iudge of his Chiualrie, thrust himselfe without feare into the thickest of them, and did meruailous actes with his per­son.

Now the Emperour who knew well the valour and dexterity of the best, séeing the great and admirable feats of armes exploited by the readie addresse of his bodie, thought with himselfe the words of the lady who came into his court, would be now verified, to wit: that there [Page 108] should arriue knights from strange countries who should surpasse his in magnanimitie and prowesse. Neuerthe­lesse he did greatly reioice to sée Rifaran make his valor so well knowne amongst the rest, for he neuer couched launce in vaine, but some knight went to the ground. So violent was the martial furie of these men at armes who held on the Courtiers side, that their aduersaries had ne­uer ben able to stand before them, if Marcomyr and Oza­lias had not by chance ioined to their succor. Ozalias came first to the conflict, where he began to strike such full stroakes, that quickly he made them know in what sports he knew best to employ the force of his armes and by and by arriued Marcomyr, carying a coat of armor red, and vpon a sheild in a gréene field painted with a little flower argent, which he deuised for this purpose, because hée would not be knowne of Abeuunq nor of Rifaran, who had séene him often in the other equippage. Before he entred into the Iousts, he staid a good while to behold the citie of Constantinople, then casting his eies very curiously one while vpon the Emperour his father, who sat aloft vpon the scaffolds, with many nobles and Barons round about him, another while vpon the empresse, and her ladies and gentlewomen, who were there to accompanie her, mer­uelled to sée there so great number of nobilitie and mag­nificence, wherefore he said thus to himselfe: O soue­raigne God, creator and director of all things, I find my selfe infinitely bounden to serue and obey you, and to re­uerence you more then any other of your creatures, ha­uing giuen me such a father, who beside he is reputed the best knight borne vnder the starres, you haue moreouer created him the greatest Prince who raigneth this day vpon the earth: now séeing you haue graunted me so ine­stimable a fauor to be borne of so rare and excellent a per­sonage, I must do my best indeuour to resemble him, and to shew in somthing I am his son: for albeit I now Ioust against the knights of his court, I beléeue hée shall haue [Page 109] none occasion to reprehend me in ought, when he shall know the good zeale I haue to doe him seruice in al other things: his courage encreased so much, as he had spoken these words, in séeing himselfe before the Emperor his father, that setting spurs to a strong courser which cari­ed him, he roughly entered the lists, where before he had broken his lance, he sent many knights to the ground, then began to lay about him so lustily, and with his great cemitorie to doe so many wonderfull acts, that those of his part taking courage, raunged themselues into order by him, and came vpon the courtiers till they abandoned the place. Knowing then Arnedes surpassed al the rest in feats of armes, he gaue him so sturdy a blow vpon the helmet, that he made him goe against his will astonished to the ground: at the same instant with another stroake smot Pernedin eldest son to the duke of Pera, besides his horse, who was estéemed one of the brauest knights in all Gréece. Which hardie Rifaran perceiuing, came vpon Marcomyr, his sword charged in his hand, wherewith he hit him two such blowes one after another, that he made him féele the smart thereof a good while after: but he had quickly his reuenge: for Marcomyr was in such a fury a­gainst him that he neuer left him till he had his paiment and was dismounted. Then angrie as a lion, he stroke on euery side with such a great might, that none durst stand before him. Recindos séeing his cousin Arnedes disarsoned, tooke in hand a great lance, to run against his aduersarie with a poulder: but Marcomyr spying him come towards him, tooke as good a one out of his squiers hands, (who al­waies attended néere him with sword and lance to furnish him at his néed) and running furiously one against ano­ther, they encountred as mortall enemies, Marcomyr pierced Recindos shield and armour, and giuing him a lit­tle wound, bore him ouer his horse crouper to the ground: he was also a little wounded in his breast with his ene­mies sword, wherewith he was so mad, that with the [Page 110] first blow he stroke afterwards, he sent Lechefin to bear him companie in the place, who albeit he were but young in years, he was neuerthelesse skilfull in armes and har­dy, and till that hower had behaued himselfe most vali­antly at all assaies.

Who could euer declare the admirable chiualries Mar­comyr did in this martiall conflict? certainly the Empe­ror wondred much at them, (being ignorant who it might be) for he auered he neuer saw accomplished knight of so great prowesse. The like did Diocles, who had an ex­treame desire to know his name, wherevnto Abenunq answered, he thought it was Marcomyr: for quoth he, he resembleth him very much in the proportion of his mem­bers. Uery glad was the Emperor of that newes, deter­mining to send a messenger to desire him to conceale himselfe no longer, being so néere him, but should come to make himselfe knowne in place where he was so much desired.

Abenunq would néeds goe himselfe with thrée or foure other knights in his companie, but he found it so hard to passe the throng, that he could neuer come néere him, whereby he was constrained to returne without him. But Marcomyr hearing the voice of all the people giuing him the honor and price at the triumph, hauing thrée lit­tle wounds, wherof the greatest was that which the spa­nish prince gaue him▪ returned in hast to the good ould knights house, where he had lodged before. Whether O­zalias the same night retired also in good health, whereof Marcomyr was right glad: in this place he soiorned two daies to cure his wounds, from whence he tooke his way towards the kingdome of Macedon with the same arms he bare in the triumph, hauing Celestina continually in his thoughts.

CHAP. XVI. How Arnedes had conference with the infant Philocrista after supper: whereupon hee sent away with all speed a post to his father the king of France: and how after that he, Recindos, Rifaran and others had won the price at the second tourney, they purposed to put themselues in quest of Marcomyr.

AShamed and greatly abashed were the vanqui­shed knights at the hard vsage they had recei­ued of Marcomyr, and Arnedes more then the rest, for he had bentwise vnhorsed before his la­die Philocrista: whereupon he purposed to auenge him­self or to die in it, as likewise did many others afterward, who fell in a mutinie against him. The Emperor soone perceiued it well, and came to Arnedes, Recindos and Ri­faran to remoue this fantasie out of their heads: he shew­ed them a smiling and merrie countenance, bidding them neuer to be vexed further for the matter: because they had well made knowne their great valor and chiualrie, and therefore he requested them at the next tourney, by some meane to recognish the knight who was vanquisher. If he come quoth Arnedes, it shal be peraduenture smally to his aduantage, for hauing foiled so many as he hath, the sport cannot well end, but he will smart for it After these spéeches the Emperor conducted them to his pallace, where he feasted them very louingly, and long continued this roiall feast throughout all his court, wherein was heard no other talke butof the knight of the Flower.

Meane while arriued Abenunq, who assured hée could not find him, whereat the Emperor was very angry, say­ing: I shall neuer sléepe soundly till I know the name of this valiant knight, and if it might not be imputed to my folly and lightnes, I would goe to séeke him my selfe. Ma­ny [Page 112] meruelling at these spéeches, purposed to goe in quest after him so soone as the tourney was ended, if peraduen­ture he returned not in the meane season thether againe: and those who had this determination were Arnedes, Re­cindos, Rifaran, Lechefin and Pernedin the Duke of Pera his sonne, who without saying word to each other resol­ued to die euery man, or to bring the knight of the Flower before the Emperor, if they could méet with him in any part of the world. Supper done, Diocles and Ditreus tooke with them Arnedes and Recindos, and went to sit among the ladies, where Arnedes compassed so much fauor as to sit next his Philocrista, and Recindos hard by the Infant Melissa. There receiued they vnspeakeable pleasure and content, séeing themselues néere the quicke and burning flame which heated them more strangely a farre off, then néere hand: so that through the extreame ioy which by little and little crept into their hearts, they began some­what to blush, as falleth out most often in such amorous alarmes. Neuerthelesse letting their eies gaze their fill, to glut them with the liuely beautie obiect to them (albeit the heart desired ioissance of a far greater ioy) they began to chat of many things with them, and among the rest of the great prowesse which the vnknowne knight had per­formed in the tourney: but the infant Philocrista percei­uing how these purposes might be griefesome to Arnedes, wherefore she encountred him thus:

Sir knight, you haue none occasion to be vexed or an­grie for any thing happened vnto you, for the best knights remaine sometime surmounted: we haue well beheld your valiancie, nor haue the vanquishers lesse cause to bée sorrie and gréeue at your comming thether; then the van­quished had at that of the knight with the Flower: whom none of vs know. Arnedes was so glad to heare these words out of Philocristaes mouth, that scant could he an­swere one word: yet loue which had fast hold of him, em­bouldened him in the end to speake (with a voice which [Page 113] well might witnes the delight his heart conceiued in this suddaine and vnexpected ioy:) Madame quoth he, the courtesie and excellent grace wherewith nature hath de­uinely accompanied the perfection of your beautie, inci­teth you to giue me this praise, albeit my valor merit not to approch the least part of that which it pleaseth you to say: and if I haue neuer so little, I should there shew it, séeing my selfe before her, who hath such preheminence o­uer me that with one winke of her eie she may augment my courage, and make my force inuincible: therefore shall my desire neuer be satisfied, till I haue reconquered my fortune which hath brought me from so farre to this tourney, the successe whereof giueth me a pain and griefe more intollerable, then doth to Sisiphus the stone which he rouleth continually in the infernall lake. I pray God hasten your attempt therein, procéeded Philocrista, I wish it with all my heart: for it were against al reason (hauing taken so great paine as you haue, to come from so remote a countrie to sée my father the Emperor) you should reape so bitter fruit of your trauell. With this swéet and fauora­ble reply the ioy of the French prince was redoubled, so that he softly thanked Philocrista with many amorous signes and tokens, whereby she strait knew the passion of his heart whence they procéeded was vehement, and in a meruellous disturbance. Recindos in like case entered so far in discourse with Melissa, that he discouered to her the affection he had to be her knight, which she accepted most willingly, pleasing her selfe more then of any other, with his beautie, valor, and modest behauior, whereof the con­tinuall and stedfast regard of his eies beholding this prin­cesse were a manifest argument.

Whilst these did swim indelights with their ladies, so­lacing their hearts inflamed with the burning sparkes of loue, Lechefin felt himselfe gnawne with an insupporta­ble iealousie, séeing Philocrista talking with his corriuall, insomuch that he wisht to haue him at his ransoming in [Page 114] the strongest prison of Persia. When bed time was come the Emperor retired himselfe with the Empresse into his chamber, and euery one likewise to his lodging, especial­ly Arnedes who held himselfe so content of the good and laudable perfections, which he knew were infused into his ladie Philocrista, that the very same night hauing his memorie fresh, he wrot to his father to send his Embassa­dors to the Emperor to conclude the mariage, moreouer he wrote how he would attend their comming in that court, not making himselfe much knowne till they should be there arriued: and after he had sealed vp his packet as he would haue it deliuered into the kings hands, he com­manded on the morrow one of his seruants to ride away post for the dispatch thereof: who made such spéed, that this busines was soone brought to the issue that Arnedes had dessigned. When the post was departed, he tooke aside B [...]uquel his dwarfe, whom he charged not to bouge from Constantinople, before he returned from a place whether he must néeds goe for some matter of great importance. And if the Emperor did call for him in the meane time, he should make him that answere: in like manner to his cousin Recindos, who was for his part in a great perplexi­tie, séeing no meane how he might quickly enioy Melissa to himselfe. Moreouer that he should in any wise speake oftentimes to Philocrista, giuing her alwaies to vnder­stand the sincere and perpetuall deuotion he had vowed to her seruice, and for to be able to satisfie the same in bet­ter manner, he was by maner of recreation, gone to take a little the aire of the countrie: which the dwarfe promi­sed to accomplish in euery point, for he desired neuer to disobey him all the daies of his life in the least thing hée should command.

The next day following, the whole citie went out in­to the field to behold the iousting, where met of the one and other side, a great number of very braue knights: but those of the Court woon the honour of the [...]ield tho­row [Page 115] the great prowesse and valiancie of Arnedes, Recin­dos, and Rifaran, who did all thrée that day maruellous feats of arms, which were not buried in obliuion by the lookers on. Those who did looke for Marcomyr in that con­flict, purposed to put their enterprise in execution, and caring not to returne into the citie, for feare of finding some cause of stay there, departed as soone as the tourney was ended, without knowing one of anothers mind in a­ny thing: euery one tooke a contrarie way, which hée thought was the best to find him out.

Great was the ioy and pleasure of the Emperour that his knights had gotten the honour of the day, and hée did neuer cease to praise sufficiently, the two gallant knights of France, and the others also who had done their vtter­most endeuours not to let the victorie slip out of their hands: but when he arriued afterwards at his palace, and could set eye of none of these [...]iue (who were alreadie departed in quest of Marcomyr) he was much abashed: he demaunded of euery bodie to heare some tidings of them, but there was none found who could tell him any newes, except Bruquel only of the prince Arnedes his maister: by means wherof he straight iudged what the matter might be, whereof he was very glad, hoping to know by this meane, who was the vnknowne knight.

In bréefe, when the solemnitie of the mariage was fi­nished, all the strange knights departed, euery one into his owne countrie, and soon after departed the new espou­sed Ditreus and Esquiuela, to go for Hungarie, accompani­ed with many hardie knights, whom the emperour com­maunded to guard them, least peraduenture some Tur­kish pyrat should set vpon them to take away their great riches that the Souldan of Babylon had sent them after the departure of his sonne Abenunq.

Greatly was Philochrista displeased at the departure of Esquiuela, for the loue which she bore her appeared to be no lesse then that of sister to sister, hauing bene both [Page 116] from their tender age brought vp togither: and Abe­nunq her brother might beare her companie no farther than to the hauen, because Diocles (who loued him so en­tirely) would haue him tarie to kéepe him company. King Frisol receaued his sonne Ditreus and his faire daughter Esquiuola, with vnspeakeable ioy and gladnesse: for the same occasion he purposed to hold open court, to the end to make a more sumptuous and magnificent feast for the time. Then thanking much the Emperour (by a letter which he wrote vnto him) for the honour which hée had done his sonne, sent backe all his knights enriched with many goodly presents, which he gaue them. Such largesse shewed he very liberally, for he estéemed himself the most fortunat prince who euer reigned in the countrie of Ger­manie, in that he heard of the woonderfull chiualries that Belcarin his other sonne did in Macedon: for the prospe­ritie of whom, he praied God dayly to preserue him from all euill incombrance. But let vs returne to the fiue knights who were gone before in quest of the vnknown knight, Marcomyr.

CHAP. XVII. How Arnedes meeteth Marcomyr, by whome hee is left halfe dead. How he had afterward slaine Lechefin cow­ardly (as hee did a good Hermit who came by chaunce that way whilest they were in combat) if Pernedin had not come in the meane time to his succour.

IT hath bene said before, how Arnedes séeing his enemies vanquished, and the victorie of the tur­nie apparant on his side, departed the iousts se­cretly, and taking his way as he thought best for the accomplishment of his desire, lodged that night in a faire gréene meadow at the signe of theseuen starres: al­though he were very wearie and tired with the sore tra­uaile [Page 117] he endured all the length of his iourney. He past a­way a great part of the night in thought of Philocrista, so that he little felt the Serena or any other night blastings, and in the morning betime betooke himselfe againe into his way, along which he demanded of all he met, if they had not séene a knight wearing a coat of arms red, with a little Flower Argent vpon his sheild, but he found none who could tell him any tidings. So trauelled he on two daies, the second wherof he lodged in an hermitage built vpon the top of a little hill, where he tooke a poore but a ioifull refection: the morrow morning he tooke vp into a narrow way, not knowing well whether he went: and as he was a good bow-shoote from the hermitage, he disco­uered two knights comming a long way, which crossed ouer his, for whom he purposed to attend at the place where the waies met: recognishing Marcomyr as far off as he could discerne his shield: whereat he was the glad­dest man in the world, hoping by force or faire meanes to bring him to Constantinople: therefore he stept out and thus saluted him.

Sir knight I hold my selfe highly fauored by fortune, hauing here met with you now, who for none other occa­sion am departed from the Emperor Cleodomyrs court, but to séeke you, and that for so much as he hath a singuler desire to vse you courteously with the kindest entertaine­ment he can make you, since he saw you last in the tour­ney. So that I pray you for the courtesie and amitie you may beare him, to come now with me, to the end I may acquite my promise, by which I find my selfe for the same effect bound to his maiestie. You haue done euil qd. Mar­comyr, to promise a thing which dependeth of anothers will, for at this present (hauing very vrgent affaires a­broad otherwise) I cannot obey his will, albeit I am rea­die to doe him seruice in all other things, as I lately sent him word, and as I request you to tell him againe from me. Knight replied Arnedes, I pray you take a little bet­ter [Page 118] resolution herein, and thinke these words doe in no­thing discharge me of mine obligation, wherefore deter­mine with your selfe to come quickly with me with a good will, otherwise you must goe thether by force. By force neuer, replied Marcomyr, but of mine owne accord thether will I goe when I shall thinke good. I requested you for your owne good quoth Arnedes, and your valor did induce me to pardon the hatred and grudge I beare you, notwithstanding séeing you will come to none other point, prepare your self to the combat, and thinke not the reputation of the discomfiture you gaue me in the Tri­umph the other day can auaile you here any thing.

Séeing you force me quoth Marcomyr, yours bée the wrong, for as for me for the loue of the Emperor, I haue no desire to sight with you. This said, they encountred so violently, that it séemed the earth should open vnder their coursers, and breaking their lances in a thousand péeces, they went both to the ground, where Arnedes had his shield and armor pierced thorow with his aduersaries sword, (which he caried alwaies with a sharpe edge) and moreouer a wound in his breast: for al that he was quick­ly vp againe and running with a great viuacity of sto­macke roughly vpon him with his naked sword, fought with him couragiously a good while, making him to know what was the amitie he bore him. But by reason of the great abundance of blood which gushed out of his wound, his heart began much to faile him, by meanes whereof Marcomyr had him so much at aduantage, that in the end he gaue him a mighty blow downeright vpon his creast, wherewith he fell downe astonied in the place: which when he saw, he cared not to giue him any more, but af­ter he had made cleane his sword, which was all bloodie, he put it vp into his sheath, saying: I beléeue you will haue little list to force any knight hereafter, but you will remember your paiment at this time: then remounting on horsebacke (albeit he was hurt in the encounter) hée [Page 119] pursued his way with Ozalias, who highly commended Arnedes for an act of a right good and hardy knight, which he had séene him doe in this combat.

But the Hermit who beheld the battaile, moued with charitie and compassion, made apace downe the hil to suc­cour Arnedes who lay all along vpon the grasse, and vn­tying the strings of his helmet, he puld it off his head to know in what state he was in, whereby it fortuned that the vigor of the sun sending downe his beams perpendi­cularly vpon his face, restored him in an instant & made all his spirits come to him againe. Then séeing no more the knight who was conqueror in the ioust, (but an Her­mite hard by him) he iudged him to be very courteous and humane, who would not kill him outright, being in his power so to doe: yet felt extreame paine and was in ve­hement choller to sée himselfe so foiled and hardly vsed, not so much for his wound, as for the fortune of the victo­rie which had ben so contrarie to him, that he began to la­ment in this pittifull maner: What should I now doe, but complaine of the inconstancie of fortune? Am not I accursed to come into these countries to purchase fame and renowne, and haue as yet done no act, which doth not redound more to my shame and ignominie then to any honour and praise of Chiualrie? Ah séeing my forces will not be correspondent to the courage of my heart, and I cannot otherwise demeane my selfe more valiantly, it were better I surcease the exercise of Chiualrie, then so il to employ my selfe in the vpholding and augmentation of so noble estate.

Further would he haue prosecuted the exclamation of his bad fortune, detesting the enormitie of his life, when the Hermite exhorted and comforted him in this maner: My son, thanke our Lord who hath deliuered you out of the knights hands, who hauing you at such aduauntage, hath shewed himselfe very pittifull and mercifull, in that he did not seperate your soule from your bodie. Cease I [Page 120] beséech you these discourses, which cannot auaile you o­therwise then to nourish in your heart anguish and sor­row, but thinke vpon God, who in a moment can make you inuincible, and giue you all your hearts desires. Ha­uing said thus, he wrapped vp his wounds as well as hée could, thinking to conduct him more easily afterward to his Hermitage: but as the diuel would haue it (one mis­chance commeth seldome alone) euen as he was getting vp on horsebacke, there arriued Lechefin, who bare him a mortall grudge for the loue of Philocrista. Who knowing him well, and séeing him in so euill taking, was verie glad of his méeting, to the end to be reuenged at his good aduantage: for otherwise he had not the heart to haue met him face to face. Wherefore comming néere him, he began with this prowd and presumptuous language: I declare thée as much my capitall and disloiall enemie, as thou louest her, whom thou art not so much as worthie to serue: this much I hope I shall make thée quickly con­fesse: and pay dearly for thy rashnes and too audacious at­tempt in addressing thy loue to a ladie, whose least grace of a thousand, surmounteth in merit the most braue and excellent of all French men.

These words ended, he couched his lance thinking to naile him fast to the earth, which he had assuredly done if Arnedes (who saw himselfe ouertaken thus vnprouided) had not shrunke a little on the left hand, whereby he be­gan to play his part so nimbly that in trauersing euery way he gaue his aduersaries horse such a sound blow, that he laid them both vnder féet: by which meane hée had leisure to put his helmet on his head: for he supposed it stood him greatly vpon to defend himselfe. In the mean time Lechefin leapt vp quickly againe, sore brused with the fa [...]l, and came with a great furie vpon his enemie, in­tending to massaker him cruelly, or to die himselfe in the place, neuerthelesse Arnedes who was a valiant and har­die knight (albeit he were gréeuously wounded) began [Page 121] with a courage almost inuincible to deliuer him manie shrewd and daungerous strokes, which did so much the more augment the féeblenes of his members, wherby hée could not long time hold out against him.

The good Hermite who perceiued him loose his blood thus, put himselfe incontinent betwéene them, praying Lechefin for the honor of God to hold his hand, for that the knight of himselfe did much abridge his owne life: but Lechefin who was a Moore, and by that mean more inex­erable, would in no waies heare him, but raging in great choller, stroke the poore Hermit such a blow vpon his head, that he claue it asunder downe to his téeth. Ah, thou traitor and disloiall dog (quoth Arnedes, séeing the act of so pittifull a tragedie) ah, what blood [...]e crueltie is this, to murther thus basely a seruant of God who had in no­thing offended thée: Assuredly I haue such hope in his di­uine goodnes thou shalt quickly receiue the paiment, and guerdon for all thy vile demerits. Saying this, he goeth courageously to charge him with thrée so strange blows, that he made him féele the last smart: neuerthelesse by reason of the blood which streamed incessantly from his wound (especially at the chafing and choller of his re­charge) he waxed instantly so weake and féeble, that if the pitie and mercie of God had not succoured him, he had ben verily cut off by the hands of this infidell Moore.

There did the soueraine dominator of this round Ma­chine, shew a most miraculous aduenture, bringing the­ther iust at that hower Pernedin the duke of Peraes son, one of those who had enterprised the quest of Marcomyr: who as soone as he had recognished the two combattants (all amazed to sée them two in fight together) came be­twéene them, crying out with a lowd voice: Eternall God what meaneth this? Haue you thus sworne your owne death knight? Then Arnedes who could no longer stand on his legs, falling downe on the ground, breathed out this complaint: Alas Pernedin, I beséech thée auenge [Page 122] me of this inhumane Moore, who hath without any cause assailed me, being before mortally wounded in a combat I lately had against the knight who woon the tourney: and this cruel Moore not content to haue set vpon me vn­iustly, hath beside slain the holy Hermit whom you sée lie stone dead by this hedge here, because he would only haue shewed him how he had done amisse to assaile me, being thus wounded as I am. O what tirannie of a knight is this? quoth Pernedin then, I sweare my faith to you, were it not the respect of the amitie which I beare vnto Ri [...]a [...]an who brought him into the court with him, I should make him nowin a cursed hower to end his daies: but I promise you, I shall make knowne this treason be­fore the Emperor and all his Barons, assuring me (hée procéeded still, speaking in great choller to Lechefin) you would neuer haue dared for your ears to haue set on him, if he had ben vnwounded: so that auoid from hence quick­ly, otherwise I shal make you die a shameful death.

These words made Lechefin so ashamed, that being mounted quickly vpō Arnedes horse, he went away with a flée in his eare without any word saying, as him who knew he had done great wrong to his honour: and that night he retired himselfe into a Nunnerie, where by rea­son of the wounds which he had receiued of Arnedes, hée found himselfe very il at ease of his person. But when the Nunnes knew he followed the Emperours court, they did him all the honour they could deuise, and one of them who was learned and wel experienced in the art of Phi­sicke and Chirurgerie, tooke charge to tend him careful­ly vntil his perfect recouerie, and there she remained some daies with him before she could recouer him to his former health.

Pernedin was very sorrowfull and displeased much, séeing the good Hermit slaine, and the knight most dange­rously hurt: notwithstanding with the helpe of a No­uice, who helped daily the old Hermit to masse, he brought [Page 123] Arnedes into the Hermitage, where they buried their dead corpes, after they had wrapped vp the knights wounds: whom Pernedin counselled, because there was no meane to looke vnto him there, to go faire and softly to Constantinople. There quoth he you shall quickly reco­uer, because you shall find Phisitions, Chirurgions, drugs and all other necessaries at hand which you cannot come by in this solitarie place. As for me as yet I cannot re­solue to returne, although I haue hetherto ben neuer the néere in that which caused me to depart the cittie. I shall repute it a great shame for me, quoth Arnedes, to goe to the Emperour in this taking, neuerthelesse doe as you shall thinke best: for I sée it out of my power and possi­bilitie euer to satisfie or recompence the infinite merit and good you haue now shewed towards me being in so great danger as you sée me at this present.

CHAP. XVIII. How Pernedin conducted Arnedes to Cōstantinople, where he was forthwith visited by the Emperour, and on the morrow after by the Empresse with the infants Philocri­sta and Melissa, and how Bruquel Arnedes dwarfe, and A­menada Philocristaes dwarfesse, had much prattle toge­ther, and what was the issue thereof.

AFter that Pernedin had conueighed Ar­nedes into the Hermitage, hée ceased not to run about in all places néere hand to get people and al things neces­sarie to transport him easily to Con­stantinople, for he could not endure the paine to sit on horsebacke. Wherefore he caused a mour­ning béere to be made, litter fashion, and vsed so great di­ligence, that within two daies after he got him to the court: where when the Emperour had heard what was [Page 124] befortuned him, he was highly displeased against the Moore. Of a troth quoth he, Lechefin cannot resemble a­ny one better then the Souldan of Persia his father, who was neuer other but a receptacle and harbour offellony: and I cannot deuise who hath moued him to outrage so honest a prince as is this knight of France, then presenly he went to visit him, and gaue his Phisitions charge hée should be carefully looked vnto, and beside prouided of whatsoeuer should be necessarie for his spéedy recouery.

Then began Arnedes the discourse of his encounter with Marcomyr, vpon the end whereof the Emperour an­swered him: I maruell greatly this knight sheweth so ardent a desire to doe me seruice, and yet will conceale himselfe in this manner and flie from me? Undoubtedly he goeth to trie himselfe in the aduenture of Celestina, sée­ing he followeth the rout you tel me, and it may be by his great Prowesse he will bring it to an end. If so it bée, God kéepe my nephew Belcarin out of his hands: herein many of the assistants were of the same opinion: and from thence forward was Lechefin estéemed of al for a co­ward and a fellon.

The Emperour returned into his chamber, and would that the Empresse should goe on the morrow to visit Ar­nedes, which she did with a right good will accompanied with Philocrista and Melissa, to whom this mischiefe and iniurie done to the French knight greatly displeased, and pierced them to the verie heart, but to Philocrista most of al, albeit she was frée from all sinister thought, for the a­mitie which she alreadie bore him, procéeded of no other cause but of the gentility and vertue which she saw shi­ning most apparant in him: and moreouer there was no­thing in this world, which she had in more singular re­commendation, then the kéeping of her own chastity both in thought and déed incontaminated.

You may well iudge whether Arnedes were glad or not, séeing before his eies her whom he loued so ardently, [Page 125] to bée sorrowfull for his hurt, to blame Lechefin as a trai­tor and disloiall: for the sole obiect of her countenance, and the féeblenes of her spéech, did sufficiently bewray what an alteration the heat of the fatall fire had alreadie wrought in her. These foure discoursed a long time toge­ther, meane while Amenada the dwarfesse of Philocrista & Risdena her nephew came to Bruquel, Arnedes dwarfe, whom they saw strangely lamenting for the mischance and disaster befalne his maister. Amenada comforted him as well as she could, telling him it was nothing, the worst was past, and none of the wounds found to be mortall, how the Emperour had sent him excellent Phisitions and Chirurgeons, who promised to set him quicklie on foot againe.

Were it Gods will quoth Bruquel, it were so, and that my maister might once find the meane to sup vp the An­tidote, which alone might corrupt and annihilate the so penetrating force of the swéet poison which was lately gi­uen him: and then leauing this circumstance of words, he fetcht a déepe sigh almost from the ground, for hée had very short legs, and would vse no more circumelocution, but followed this point in this sort: Ah my lord Arnedes, how dearely doe you buy her beautie, for whose sake you departed out of your countries? Where the only reputa­tion of your high estate, and illustrious linage whence you are extracted, did suffice to obtaine her, without euer comming so f [...]rre to expose your selfe to so many perils & dangers. Am [...]nada maruelled much at these spéeches, and presently had a curious desire to know who this knight might be. Wherefore she praied Bruquel of all fauours to tell her, to the end they might shew her ladie Philocrista, who had an extreame desire to vnderstand of what race he was descended. I will doe willingly for you all things I may, quoth the dwar [...]e, except this, which without his commandement I dare not enterprise, for I should doe that I am forbidden: I will make you this promise to [Page 126] speake to him hereof, and according to his wil and inten­tion will I satisfie your desires.

Melissa also who desired with a singular affection to know who Recindos her louer was, hauing séene these two Myrmidons prate together, and vnderstanding some inkeling of their talke in passing by them, so soone as they were retired into their chambers, demaunded Amenada what were the matters debated betwéene her and Arne­des dwarfe. Wherevpon the dwarfesse made her a long discourse, whereof Philocrista was wonderous glad, ho­ping thereby to vnderstand something of the French prince. And as she heard say, he was departed out of his house for the loue of a Damsel, imagined this imediately meant by her selfe: for it falleth out alwaies euery one best fauours himselfe in iudgements relying vpon bare cōiectures: for this cause she bid Amenada that she should cal vpon Bruquel to performe his promise. The dwarfe as soone as he had opportunitie to speake vnto his maister, made him vnderstand at length all which had past be­twéene himselfe and the dwarfest of Philocrista: whereat he was the gladdest man in the world, and gaue him now a great charge to be carefull to bring this practise to a good end.

The next day when the Emperour and Diocles dined together, Amenada went to take Bruquel in his lodging, who séeing her come, began thus to prattle aloud: madam, I haue giuen order for that I promised you the last night. Notwithstanding before I can satisfie you in your desire, I must craue one thing at your hands: demaund hardly whatsoeuer you please, quoth the dwarfesse, for of nothing which is honest shall you of me be denied. I haue then ob­tained of you, replied Bruquel, you shall not manifest to a­ny liuing creature, but to Madame Philocrista, that which I am now about to tell you: it is, that for the loue of her only my deare lord and maister, the first borne son of the king of France is departed from his house: for the fame [Page 127] of her vnspeakeable beautie which hath alreadie pierced beyond those countries, did on a day so cruelly wound his heart, that forthwith he resolued to make a voiage into the leuant sea, to sée whether such bruit did egall or sur­passe the fame spread abroad of her. And hauing after­ward well beheld it, he found nature had so cunningly embellished this perfect piece of worke, that she hath ta­ken away the power from any humane tongue, were it neuer so eloquent and fluent, to accomplish euer the en­tire praise of her desert: by means whereof he hath writ­ten by a post sent of purpose to the king his father, that he would send Embassadours h [...]ther, to the end to conclude the articles of mariage with the Emperour, to whom vn­till he sée the commissioners of this embassage appeare, he will not make himselfe knowne, nor to any other per­son liuing, but to her only. And requireth her in the hum­blest manner he may, she would vse with some little cour­tesie and benignitie the heart that she hath so secretly ra­uished from him, and if in the meane time she wil employ his bodie in any other then familiar and domesticall affaires, it would please her to send backe his heart with some comfort, accepting the offer which it hath now late­ly made her: so shall he repute himselfe the most happie and fortunate champion, that euer entered battell in the seruice of any ladie, moreouer should find himself quicklie recouered and healed of all his wounds: otherwise should not be able to liue foure & twentie howers in this world, which were a way to purchase the death of infinit others besides his, especially that of Recindos his cousin, sonne of the king of Castile, who louing him as himselfe, would néeds beare him companie in this voiage, and be partaker of the same trauels and diseases he endured, for the great amitie and néere parentage betwéene them. So cunning­ly could this Pigme file his language to second his mai­sters intention, that it reaped that fruit to these two yong princes, as hereafter you shall heare: which might well [Page 128] be compared in loiall and perfect amitie to the two pitha­gorean companions, Orestes and Pilades, or to Nisus and Eurialus, who would die the one for the other.

Greatly wondred Amenada hearing him tell how so high and illustrious a prince had thrust himselfe into so many trauels and dangers for the accomplishment of this mariage, which he might haue effected by his agents em­ploied therein. Then she made this answere, Assuredly if I had not promised to tell my ladie and mistresse this, I should not dare for any thing in the world aduenture my selfe to discouer or manifest so great matters as these, for I should neuer be able to shew her the one halfe, but Melissa who neuer stirreth farre from her, would vnder­stand or presume something. It skilleth not for Melissa, quoth the dwarfe, I care not if it were done in her pre­sence, for I estéeme her so modeste and sage a princesse, that she will shew her selfe rather silent to disclose it, then inconsiderate and giddie headed to reueale it to any, and I assure my selfe she will but take all the matter in good part. This spake he, to the end she should be an act or in the comedie, for the loue of Recindos: and if peraduenture Phi­locrista were slacke and backward in her loues, she might counsell her not to refuse this good fortune offered her: breifely they should reciprocally take aduise the one of the other, as hauing both their hearts pierced with one dart: for it falleth out many times two thoughts afflicted with like martyrdome, receiue mutually more comfort, then being with others who féele not the like torment.

Bruquel hauing so well done his deuoire for the win­ning of Philocrista to his maisters bow, returned inconti­nent to him, whom he found attending in great deuotion to vnderstand the euent of this amourous stratageme. After the dwarfe had recounted from point to point all his busines, Arnedes was so rauished with an vnspeakea­ble gladnes, that he thought himselfe the most happiest man in the world, to haue met with so fine and ingenious [Page 129] a Truchemant. On the other side Amenada whē she espi­ed her fittest opportunitie, interpreted so well and faith­fully the intention of Arnedes and of his dwarfe to her ladie Philocrista, that she remained a prettie while exa­cticke, and her tongue could not speake one word, so much perplexed and distra [...]ed was her spirit, with varietie of a thousand new thoughts. And albeit the knight had al­waies greatly liked her, and ben pleasing to her eie, as well in his beautie and good grace, as by his prowesse and chiualrie, and now freshly this suddaine ioy vnlooked for had pierced her heart to the quick, she resolued neuerthe­lesse to make him answer and to demeane her selfe wisely herein, by this meane to preuent a future inconuenience which might otherwise haue ensued. For séeing her louer in so euill estate of health, she feared to put him in grea­ter danger, in giuing him a seuere and rigorous answer: for this cause she saith to the dwarfesse, It displeaseth mée thou didst not promise Bruquel to tell me this tale, but sée­ing the effect is ensued, now we cannot alter it. Thou shalt then goe to Arnedes to tel him from me, how I mer­uaile much he hath enhazarded himselfe to so many perils for my sake, wherein I hold my selfe much beholding to him, and thanke him for it humbly with al my power, promising him for guerdon of his paine, and irkesome trauels which hée hath endured, to accept him willingly for my loiall spouse, if the Emperour my father, and the Empresse my mother will consent: vpon this condition notwithstanding, that he neuer aduenture to speake the least word in the world to me thereof, but let it suffice him only therein to know my will. And to the end I be assu­red of the vehement and excessiue loue (which as he saith) [...]e beareth me, pray him from me, he take this newes in stéed of the most soueraigne balme or of some perfect ca­taplasme which may the sooner knit vp his wounds, and hasten his recouerie and health, hoping to goe sée him to morrow morning, if I may possible by any meane.

[Page 130]After Philocrista had instructed Amenada in her mes­sage, she tooke Melissa to her aside, to whom for that they loued mutually with a sincere and affectionat heart, Phi­locrista discouereth this aumourous affaire, making her a discourse thereof from the very beginning. Wherof Me­li [...] was meruellous well apaid, specially hearing that Recindos came of so noble and roiall a blood as was that of Castile. The dwarfesse séeing her time fit and conue­nient to acquite her selfe of the charge her ladie and mi­stresse had committed vnto her, went to doe her message, not missing a word thereof to the French prince, vnto whom she did deliuer it as wisely as Philocrista had laid it downe in words vnto her: By meanes whereof, the knight entred into so extream ioy, that within few daies after he left his bed and got vp on his legs againe, but be­fore she departed from Arnedes chamber, he entreated her of all fauour she would carrie to her mistres a French sonnet, which he had for her loue composed the same day, praying her to commaund the maister of the Empe­rours chappel to set a descant, according to his art of mu­sicke, to these French verses, which did say thus:

After Amenada had read this sonnet, the answered the French prince, she knew not whether her mistresse would be pleased with her enterprising so presumptuous [Page 131] a message, yet although she were a little discontented, she would counterfeit the pageant so well that euerie one should in the end be glad thereof: as it happened out, for she went her way to the princesse Phlocrista, to whom making many discourses of the extreame loue Arnedes bore her, she put her into more comfort with that sonnet, then if she had ben made quéene of all Asia. But on the morrow the Empresse went to visit Arnedes, taking with her Philocrista so faire, and so richly attired, to make him vnderstand her gladnes and content, which redou­bled the ioy that the knight had in his heart conceaued the day before. Then after the visitation of the Empresse, she blushing asked him how he felt himselfe in his wounds: Madame quoth he, thanks be to God and to you, I find my selfe in good case, that were it not the inhibition of the Phisitions whereby I am constrained, I would rise now presently out of my bed to walke abroad. Philocri­sta knew right well to what end tended these spéeches, therefore a liuely blush of her countenance graced farre more her face then it did before: whereat Arnedes who iudged rightly the passion whence procéeded this change of coulour, reputing himselfe the happiest of the vassals of Cupid the great Monarke, beheld her so stedfastly, and with so glancing and amourous eie, that he thought him­selfe placed in the highest stage of wordly blisse & felicity. But Philocrista durst not looke vpon him, to the end not to bewray the euidence of her passion, neuerthelesse shée attended in good hope the French Embassadours arriual, to make an end of her dissembling, which Arnedes desired in his heart as much as she, for not to displease & infringe the commandement of his ladie, he saw that to be the on­ly remedie of his tedious afflictions, wherein he was stil enwrapped, till the king his father sent some of his péeres to Constantinople to procure his greatest ioy, & the true recouery of his health: so there will we leaue the to come to Rifaran, who is far trauelled in the quest of Marcomyr.

CHAP. XIX. How Rifaran after he had put himself inquest of Marcomyr, passed before a castle which appertained to the countesse of Iseland, for whom he combated a brother of her hus­bands, and fiue other knights, who besieged the same: and how the countesse entertained him very courteously into her castle, where he fell in loue with her at the same instant.

IT gréeued greatly Rifaran to haue made eight or nine daies iourney without hearing any news of the knight whom he sought, and as he perceiued his trauell was in vain (for in troth he held a contrarie way to that Marcomyr had taken) knowing not what to resolue on, whether to returne to the court, or to goe on still to séeke his man, it chanced he p [...]ssed hard by a fortresse ioining to a little cittie, albeit very strong and defensible, be­longing to the countesse of Iseland, a very faire and gra­tious damsell.

This countesse was a widdow, and had béene but two yeares without her husband, who in the end of his daies, for that he had no children, and loued his wife with a sin­gular affection, made her the inheretrix of all his estate and siegnorie: whereat was greatly wroth a brother of the earls, called Diolas, a fierce and hardy knight, who as a yonger brother, was little the better by succession of his father, but for a small farme, being al he could pretend for his part, and willingly would he haue made warre vpon his sister, had he not séene her well beloued of all her vas­sals. By reason whereof he feared to loose his labour, and all the time he should employ therein, thinking to get more another way, caused her daily to be sollicited and ad­uertised, [Page 133] if she did not forsake quickly that possession shée held vniustly (surrendring it willingly into his hands) he would cast her out by force and violence: as he who next after the death of the deceased earle his brother, ought by right and reason to inherit.

The countesse was in a great perplecity through these threatning spéeches, yet determined to defend her selfe, if he went about to molest her, and by good fortune the same day Rifaran came that way, when Diolas went the round without the fortresse, with fiue other knights well ap­pointed, to espie the féeblest part where they might scale and surprise it. The countesse thereof aduertised, presen­ted her selfe presently vpon the battlements of the wall, where leaning ouer the top of a rampire, iust at the arri­uall of Rifaran, she began these pittifull and sorrowful la­mentations: Alas why will you thus ruine me? What hath moned you to be so angrie and furious against a poor damsel, a widow, to dishonour her, to outrage her vassals and best friends, who neuer committed against you the least offence, which in any thing might exasperate the choller of a mā (were he neuer so malitious or mutinous) to take so austere and rigourous vengance, as you séeke to offer me? I pray you in the fauour and for the deuoire of that honest and vertuous amitie, you haue alwaies séene in me towards you, you permit me to liue in peace, suffering me to enioy without disturbance during my life, that little which it pleased him to inuest me with, by the ordinance of his last wil, & I promise to render it you vn­doubtedly at the end of my daies: for now to depart with it, were to me a heartsgriefe vnspeakeable.

Diolas returned her a thousand villanous spéeches to terrifie her, saying she had empoisoned her husband, and that he would otherwise haue dispossessed her of all that she did wrongfully possesse by the law of the twelue ta­bles. Thē Rifaran who staid there to heare those alterica­tions betwéene them, perceiued well what the cauill [Page 134] meant. Wherefore moued with pittie towards the dam­sell could not containe to reprehend Diolas for his dis­courtesie, in outraging with such vile spéeches the ladie, who shewed farre more modestie and wisdome then he, counselling him if by her he found himselfe wronged, to take his way to the emperor who would minister good iu­stice to him for his right. The explorator was in a rage and ful of indignation, hearing Rifaran speake to him in this sort, who in great choller cut him of thus:

You who speake before you be bidden, will you take vpon you to maintaine the right of this ladie? surely I wil quoth he, and albeit I know not the cause whence pro­céedeth this quarrel, yet I vnderstand you offer her vio­lence, wherein for as much as I haue taken vpon me the order of knighthood, with intention to aid to my power, those whom I sée iniuried without cause, I cannot nor I ought not to faile but succour her. And if herevpon thou wilt enter the combat with me, I hope by the helpe of God (in whose hand are all victories) to make thée repent this villanie offred her. I will neuer be accounted knight quoth Diolas, if I doe not make thée pay too deare for this thy foolish rashnes: and to the end thou maiest be an ex­ample to all other presumptuous and witles fooles, such as thou art, to defie a gentleman whom thou knowst not, resolue now to defend thy selfe well, for I cannot thinke otherwise but th [...]u art of the faction, and one of those who with this disloiall and accursed woman, hast murderou­sly slaine my brother. Knight you surmise too great a lie, quoth Rifaran, séeing that I know not this ladie, nor haue I euer séene her in my life but now, no more then you, which I will make good in any forme of combat which you like best. Upon condition notwithstanding, that for any accident which may befall you, none of your compli­ces shal once stir in your behalfe to offend me, more then your selfe alone. No sooner had he spoke these wordes, but he commaunded all his companions to withdraw them­selues [Page 135] from the place, and that none of them should bée so hardie as to come to his aid, whereat the countesse great­ly meruelled, because she knew not the knight who vn­dertooke her defence. Meane while the two knights who had great desire to grapple, encountred with such courage and furie, that breaking their lances to their gauntlets, they brusht one another so puissantly with their shieldes and bodies, that Diolas was dangerously wounded in one of his shoulders, and turning bridle incontinently began to hew on another fiercely with their swords: all the time of this recharge, the countesse, who wel knew how valiant a knight her enemie was estéemed in these coun­tries, praied God deuoutly for her champion, wondering much how without great cause his heart serued him to enter this combat. But Rifaran being valerous, and a per­fect warrior, shewed within a little space, he would quick­ly carie away the victorie, for he made his fight with mer­uellous dexterity, & neuer profered blow but hurt his ad­uersarie: so as in lesse then halfe an hower he tamed him so well, that with a stroake which he lighted aloft on the creast of his helmet, he made him fal from his horse to the ground: Then Rifaran alighted from his, and running hastely vpon him, cut a two the laces of his helmet, and withall his head from his shoulders, saying to the coun­tesse, who looked on thorow the loopeholes of the platform: Madame, now are you secure from the vexation which this peasant did worke you, so that from henceforth you néed not feare him any more.

The ladie was much abashed at his suddaine spectacle, and much more affraid were Diolas fiue knights, who sée­ing their maister alreadie dead, came like mad dogs to charge vpon Rifaran, crying to him: thou art dead, cruel and inhumane Barbarian, séeing thou hast not had pittie of a better and more courteous knight then thy selfe. Hée knowing it was time to bestir something els then his tongue, and not to be all day in doing it, put himselfe [Page 136] brauely in defence: when with the first stroake of his sword, he sent one of them to kéepe Diolas company in the other world. But the other foure held him so liuely play, that he receiued two or thrée wounds, yet not mortall nor dangerous, for he droue them so before him, that nei­ther one nor other could once come néere him, but they should find him ready to receiue them. And although they gaue him his hands full, as doubtlesse the match is too vn­equall of foure against one, yet he neuer shewed himselfe coward or fainthearted, but in warding stil their blows, mist not their bodies an inch, at euery aduantage where they lay open, and he made the sweat drop down his for­head for feare, whom he could sometimes by chance light vpon.

The countesse séeing her champion in perill of death, sent many of her people to his rescue, so that there salied out of the fortresse more then twentie knights all very well armed to goe sacage and take prisoners those foure assailants: for all that, they could take but two of them al hewen and massacred of their bodies, whom they caried afterwards within the castle: for as for the others, ve­ry feare had made to take their héeles so soone as they saw the supplie of enemies come forth of the castell to as­saile them. In the meane while two young knights, kins­men to the countesse, came humbly to thanke Rifaran, and to inuite him to refresh himselfe within the fortresse, as well because it was néedfull for him to rest, as also be­cause the ladie and mistresse thereof had a great desire to know him, and to doe him all the honour she might de­uise, for the suddaine and miraculous aid she had receiued at his hand. Gentleman quoth the knight then, smal mat­ters are these I haue now exploited, in respect of that I would endeuour to accomplish, as far as my life would goe, for her and her péeres. Notwithstanding I will goe willingly to visit her, to the end to doe her that reuerence which I ow to all the honest and vertuous paragons of [Page 137] her sex. So he walked forth towards the castle, and as he drew néere it, behold the countesse who met him, who thanking him in most humble manner for the knightly act he came from performing in the defence and mainte­nance of her good right, required him most instantly and with a very amiable grace he would declare her his name, to that end her spirits might be setled, knowing him by whom she had receiued this aid.

Madame quoth Rifaran, I am a gentleman of the em­perours court, whence I am come not long since to séeke a knight who departed thence very secretly this other day: and arriuing here by chance as you may sée, I could not endure you should be thus villanously outraged by your aduersarie, against whom I haue as I thinke with­out all blame attempted that which euery aduised and noble knight is bound to doe in the like occurrence. With this talke they mounted vp the staires of the great hall, where being arriued, the countesse did with her owne hand disarme Rifaran, then laid him in a rich bed, and cau­sed his wounds to be looked vnto with all care, giuing commaund the same euening to make an honourable tombe, to inter therein the bodie of Diolas her brother in law, with ceremonies of funerall pomps, as were requi­sit, for the yonger brother issued of so high a house as that of Iseland. And afterward causing al her vassals to bée as­sembled, she aduised that Rifaran and the two knights which she held prisoners should recount vnto them the discourse of this battaile, the happie issue whereof made them more then content: In respect whereof they all a­gaine sware and promised vnto her loiall fidelitie, and she remained in tranquillity and peaceable possession of her estate. So that hereby her thoughts being no more trou­bled with the continuall vexations and alarmes that Di­olas was wont to giue her, she occupied her selfe altoge­ther in tricking vp of her naturall beautie, and in doing of things which might please the knight, whom she per­ceiued [Page 138] alreadie a little entangled in her loue, which on the other side fiered her owne thereby with an vnquencha­ble flame, hauing vnderstood he was nephew to the Em­presse of Constantinople, but she knew not he was a Moore: this reciprocall amitie grew so hot betwéene them, that it rauished quite the spirits of this countesse, euen to make her forget the chast and vndefiled lawes of her widdowhood: for the impatient desire of Rifaran, and the guerdon of his merit, whereof she was in silent manner required, did prouoke her so liuely that shée was persuaded to let her heart swim in the streame of all deli­cious ioissance: so it fell out afterward by the subtiltie and secret practises of Cupid, wherof not any liuing crea­ture but they two, and one of her most faithfull ladies of honour were priuie: and Rifaran loued her afterward so strangely, that for the loue of her, fearing least his depar­ture might cause her sorrow & insupportable griefe, he so­iourned a great while longer in that place then hée was determined to doe.

CHAP. XX. How Marcomyr arriued in the island of Cardery, where first he dismounted Tiraquel at the ioust: afterward vanqui­shed the knight G [...]rdian at the bridge, and some others who assailed him at the third turre [...]: how he had at last a sight of faire Celestina, and was set vpon by two great en­chanted dogs.

YOu haue heretofore vnderstood, how after Mar­comyr h [...]d vanquished Arnedes, he went on his way with incredible desire to arriue quicklie in Carderie, so that he made tarriance in no place, before he came thether, which was vpon a munday at af­ternoone: full glad was he as euer he was in his life to be come thether: wherefore he put himselfe in deuout [Page 139] praier, praying vnto God with all sinceritie to giue him so much grace that he might happily atchieue the victorie of this aduenture: for a memoriall and sacrifice whereof he promised with a contrite heart to offer vp the purity of his soule to the holy character of Christianitie, and to be baptised as soone as by any meane possible he might.

At this same time was not Belcarin in guard of the bridge as he was wont before, for he was importuned to goe some daies before to visit the king and quéene Griana, his ouncle and aunt in Macedon: who hauing euery day newes of the great and meruellous chiualries he did in defence of this bridge, had sent for him by an expresse mes­senger to come vnto them. And indeed he had not gone (so obstinate he was in his enterprise) if Alderine had not re­quested him priuily by a letter, which the very same page brought him, who had spoken vnto him in her behalfe, when he depareed out of the tourney at the marriage of the infant Denise, as you haue read before. For she disco­uered her secret to the Quéene Griana, and by all meanes humbly entreated her, she would vnder some apparant coulour retaine the duke her father, till Belcarin were arriued from Carderie. Wherevnto the quéene most wil­lingly granted, and séeing her nephew could not find a more honourable and vertuous match then Alderine, shée spake with the duke and duchesse of Pontus, who were very glad of that alliance: and therefore dispatched in hast a gentleman of the quéens, and Gratian, Alderines squier, with a letter which she gaue him, the words whereof were ofthis substance.

This letter and some word of message beside, where­with Alderine could well instruct Gratian, were the onely meane to bring Belcarin into Macedon, who in the mean time left Tiraquel in guard of the bridge of Carderie, ho­ping to be quickly there againe: but there will fortune something to him which will saue him all that paine, as hereafter you shal further vnderstand.

To returne to the prince of Tarsus, as soone as Tira­quel saw him approch the bridge, he made out against him, as he did against all others who in great number re­sorted continually into this place, rather to combat with Belcarin then to trie themselues in the aduenture of Ce­lestina, and had alreadie vanquished six since his compani­ons departure: whereof Marcomyr aduertised at his lod­ging the night before, resolued rather to die then to take the place of the seuenth. Wherefore he laced his helmet, then gallopping to the end of the carrier (for at the other end he beheld Tiraquel all in a readines) gaue him such a [Page 142] braue encounter, that with a shrewd blow he sent him to the ground: for all that he lost one of his stirrops by the counterbuffe which he receiued of Tiraquel, who lay there a good while before he could rise againe, he felt such paine by his fall.

Those who beheld this encounter meruelled much, es­pecially the Quéene of Thessalie, Celestinaes mother, who arriued there foure or fiue daies before: for that the last of the thrée Fairies who wrought the enchantmēt of the castle, foreséeing she could not liue longer, procured the arriuall of Marcomyr as before you haue read, and af­terward sent the quéene word that soon after her decease she should sée all her desires accomplished. No sooner was the death of the Enchaunteresse knowne by the good la­die, who had an extreame desire to sée her daughter out of these enchaunted prisons, to the end by her meanes her husband might also soone after be deliuered out of the cap­tiuitie of the misbeléeuing pagans, but she departed from Thessalie to take her iourney towards this isle of Car­derie: where she nor none of her traine could euer set one foot vpon the entrance of the bridge onely. By reason whereof causing many ten [...]s and pauillions to be raised in the plaine field, she there staid attending in good deuo­tion the end of the aduenture, when Marcomyr was come thether, and as suddainely she saw Tiraquel vanquished, who was very valerous she had much ioy in her heart, praying God the creator, he would put into this new knight so much force and courage, he might frée her daugh­ter from that enchantment. Marcomyr breathed a while to sée whether his enemie would rise againe from the place, neuerthelesse knowing he was too long a while be­fore he could doe it, made approch to win the gates of the first [...]urret, where he spied a great knight sturdy on foot alreadie readie to combat him: therefore he alighted his horse, and with an inuincible courage drawing his sword he began to pray thus with a loud voice:

[Page 143]O lord God if thy prouidence hath destined me the dis­comfiture of this aduenture, suffer not I beséech thée any fainthearted cowardise to accompany me in the deliue­rance of this gentle princesse which is here within enclo­sed: but let my eies this day enioy the presence of Cele­stina, whom they desire so ardently to behould, and I shall fulfill my promise, as sone as euer I haue opportunity to doe it: these words ended, he aduanced himselfe with in­credible hardines, albeit the knight of the bridge repulsed him most stoutly, whereat the prince was so encouraged, that there began betwéen them so cruell and bloody a bat­tel, that it was a terror to behold it: because there was no plate of harnesse (were it neuer so wel tempred with stéel) but flew in péeces to the ground.

Marcomyr who was valiant and magnanimious, and on the other side pricked on with an excéeding desire to finish this aduenture, hewed so long on his enemie, that he began to be greatly wearie, & as he heard the dwarfes horne, who looked out of the turret top (knowing the for­ces of the knight his aduersarie were redoubled thereby) he let his sword hang at his yron hanger to get within him and to gripe him fast in his arms, which he did with a braue courage. And these two wrastlers tugging toge­ther a long time, at the l [...]t to the ground they went toge­ther, where Marc [...]myr, who was alwaies fortunate and fauoured by the destinies (as was also his father before him) fell vppermost vpon his enemie, from whom (albeit he held him very h [...]rd downe to him by reason of the dou­ble strength he had recouered by the winding of the horn) he did wind himselfe out from him neuertheles gallantly: and setting his knée vpon his brest, began cruelly to pom­mell him with his sword. Which the knight of the bridge perceiuing, clasped about him againe with his armes, so that there they were a good while roling together, and foiling one another in the place, nor could one get the bet­ter of the other: notwithstanding Marcomyr disdaining [Page 144] to haue clawed one another so long while, and flouenly to lie along taking measure of the earth, by the onely re­membrance thereof, doing a thing so repugnant to a no­ble and heroicall heart, put too such admirable strength, that hée lifted himselfe once againe liuely out of the gripes of his aduersarie, who lay along on the ground tired cleane out of breath with striuing and wras [...]ling.

Then whipt Marcomyr along the bridge, praying vn­to God with all his heart to succour him in this happie & so famous conquest. And as soone as he had done his prai­er, going a pace neither too swift nor too slow, he came to the gates of the second turret, which clapt together with a more horrible creaking then they were wont to doe at the comming of any other knight: for al that, he who saw them going a far of before they were quite sparred toge­ther, pusht betwéene his sword, which he then bare naked in his hand, therefore could they not shut close together: and being nothing amated at the noise, he quickly thrust his fingers betwéene the two dores which he opened so easily, as if they had ben two leaues of paper. Quicklie was he in at them, thrust on with an vnspeakeable glad­nes, knowing neuer any other knight had gone so far in this aduenture. Whereof no lesse was the pleasure and gladnesse that receiued in their hearts all those who were most desirously attending to behold him at the end of the bridge, and especially the good quéene of Thessalie: who embracing Ozalias the teares standing in ger eies (for the vnspeakeable ioy of her heart) blessed and praised God who had sent thether so perfect & accomplished a knight: then the prince told her moreouer, she would without all comparison be so persuaded, if she were once aduertised of his parentage and ofspring: [...]or if she [...]aw him valiant and magnanimious in the highest degrée, he was no lesse illustrious and generous of blood. So far excéeding séemed the gladnes and content of all the beholders, that it may not be expressed.

[Page 145]And if he had cause to reioice at this strange accident in the behalfe of the prince of Tarsus, Tiraquel who was co [...]eighed by his squiers into his tent, felt in himselfe an extreame agonie, and so great a hearts griefe (séeing him­selfe so quickly vanquished) that he was more then halfe mad, and would haue died for méere rage. In the meane time was Marcomyr come to the last turret, which hée saw was guarded with thrée knights all in complaet ar­mou [...] downe to the foot, hauing euery one a short launce couched against him. Passe he could not further onwards vnlesse he would put himselfe vpon the very point of their lances, which terrified him a little: yet knowing no bet­ter remedie, he encouraged himself▪ thus: On what dost thou pause Marcomyr? What fearest thou now man? Be not affeard of any thing, séeing thou hopest in briefe to sée her, who in beautie surpasseth the most perfect of all the world: for if in getting hether thou hast done more then any who euer hazarded before in this aduenture, the de­uine bountie shall helpe and make thée strong inough for the rest. Speaking these words, he ventred himselfe for­wards, when the thrée knights gaue him such a furious charge, that they quickly laid him along: yet his hap was still so good, that none of them gaue him any wound: ne­uertheles he had as great shame of that misaduenture, as if he had then ben before the Emperour and al the ladies of his court.

Séeing it would be no better he recouered himself with a trice all in a furie, & without fearing any encombraunce or perill whic [...] might befall him, trauersing his ground a little on the one side, he deliuered so mightie a stroake on the lance of the first who was next him, that it went in two péeces almost at his fists: to be short, without long standing he did as much for the other two, who then set­ting their hands to their swords, began to lay about on all sides: but such was the prowesse and valour of Marco­myr, and so cunningly he knew to ward his aduersaries [Page 146] blowes, that he kept them far inough off him: albeit so sharpe and cruell did this battell séeme vnto him, that hée affirmed oftentimes afterward, he neuer saw himselfe so sore handled in any assault, where euer he had ben before nor afterward. In fine, he vsed so well the force and dexte­ritie which God had giuen him, that he made them cease the fight, forcing them to recoile to the end of the bridge, from whence they vanisht out of sight, and at the same in­stant with them the knight gardian of the bridge, and the dwarfe, who neuer boudged from the watch tower, being then heard a most great and horrible earthquake in all parts round about the castel.

The quéene perresuing the same, fell downe on her knées to the ground to thank God of this good beginning: as did also those who were in companie with her, especi­ally Ozalias, who being desirous to follow Marcomyr, would leape incontinently after vpon the bridge, neuer­thelesse could not plant one step sure, for that neither hée nor any others of the companie might passe ouer at that present, albeit many assaied to doe it, and yet tooke much paine in vaine.

Marcomyr on the other side was so ioifull he had set his foot so far, that he neuer remēbred to take any rest: where­by he went directly to the castell, & going almost round a­bout to séeke the entrance into it, séeing the countermure and the enclosure of the wals which did enuiron the great chamber, were very high and too stéepe to be climed vp, past a little farther, where he found the posterne gate of the garden garded by two enchanted dogs, thorow which he saw (hard by a fountaine within) many Damsels stan­ding vp. Among whom she in the middest (sitting vpon a chaire wrought with imbroderie) was Celestina, so pas­sing faire, and most sumptuously attired, that she had not only prouoked the tender and passionate hearts of ina­moured knights, but also made ioifull, yea moued stones, plants, and other insensible creatures. The prince Marco­myr [Page 147] then hauing thus séene and curiously beheld her, as a bodie rauished and franticke, thrust from him the dore so violently without al feare, that at the third time he brake it open: and entring ioifully into the place of his blisse, the dogs ran vpon him forth with, tearing with their sharp téeth, all the plates buckles and leathers of his harnesse. Notwithstanding he who saw himself in eminent peril of life, fearing to be torne in péeces and deuoured by these beasts (which séemed to him more terrible and mad then the infernall furies) began to lay at them with downright blowes, and then thrust vpon thrust so liuely, that he ra­ther wearied himselfe then hurt them in any wise, for that his sword could not pierce their skin, being diobollically enchanted. Wherefore not well knowing what to doe in this perplexitie, he said in great brauerie, How is this? Now I am before the eies of the most excellent of all la­dies, shall my force and stomack faile me, that I cannot defend my self against these hideous and brutish animals? Ah too great an enemie should be to me that old mortall Chimere, if she should make an end of me here before her, in whom lieth the perfection of all my future glorie. As soone as he had ended this spéech, letting his sword hang at the chaine of his arme, and taking in either hand one of these sauage and horrible beastes, he put them finely vnder his armepits, where he thratled them so hard, that they were quickly strangled: neuerthelesse he remained so wearie and senceles, that scantly could he well stand vpon his féet a good while after.

CHAP. XXI. The gracious greeting and talke that passed between Mar­comyr and faire Celestina in the garden, where they supt both together, and how after he had giuen her to vnder­stand who he was, he gaue her the ring which his mother had giuen him at his departing from Tarsus.

[Page 148] NOw to come to Celestina, she had alrea­die felt the flame of loue as well as Marcomyr, for the Fairy (knowing the time of the ceasing of this enchaunt­ment to approch) gaue her to vnder­stand, she should be quickly conquered and deliuered out of that prison by one of the best knights of his age, to whom from her natiuitie the destinies had absolutely vowed her for wife in recompence of his la­bours. Which made this amourous destinie sparple more and more in the spirit of Celestina, to sée her selfe surprised with this new and maruellous disrest: for the little god Cupid, who maistereth and dominéereth ouer the hearts subiect to his bow, did studie to make appeare in like de­grée the reciprocation of Marcomirs loue in this princesse: Who being assailed with such vnusuall passions, did no­thing but wish for that so happie hower when the knight should arriue there for her deliuerance. So that euen as the pilot tossed long time with the impetuous storme and tempest at sea, mounteth sometime into his mainetop to sée whether he can discouer a far off the port or hauen, hée desireth so much: likewise this damsell disquieted with the wauie floates of this amourous sea, gets to the top of the platforme of the castle, to looke whether she might sée any knight from far in the plaine champaine & sea coa [...]t comming towards her. And by good fortune being there when Marcomyr arriued at the bridge foot, her heart be­gan to leape for ioy, which caused her to imagin strait, he should be her deliuerer and future spouse: wherefore shée soone got downe into the garden with her damsels in gal­lant array, to sée what might be the issue of the knights exploit, who did presage vnto her so much ioy.

By this time the beams of the great planet, running swifter then they were woont to doe, gaue place to the light of Phebe his sister, when the princesse (who was be­fore aduertised by the Fairie of that which beséemed her [Page 149] to doe) séeing the dogs vanquished, rose from her place, & with all her damsels came toward the knight: shewing by the gesture of her countenance, she came to welcome him with many amiable courtesies. But Marcomyr who saw her draw néere him, féeling his heart striken with a suddaine motion, set one knée on the ground, thinking to kisse her hand: whereat Celestina blushed a little, and did the same to him, saying: it is to me sir knight, to whom it belongeth of dutie to begin this, wherein thorow your courtesie I sée you haue now preuented me: for by that aduenturous act, from the finishing whereof you now come, you shew your selfe euidently to be in perfection of Chiualrie second to none of those, who at this day beare armes: so that before I rise from hence, I must entreat you to graunt me one fauour, which I beséech you not to refuse me, séeing it shall not be any thing, that may take from you or make you loose that which shal be for euer en­tirely yours: for hauing set me frée from this enchantment (after my sute obtained) you shall dispose of me as may a loial spouse do of his wife.

Madame quoth Marcomyr, I estéeme my selfe no lesse at this present loued of the heauen, then fauorised by for­tune, hearing you say, that (I am yours and you mine) which makes me thinke my selfe fully guerdoned for all the trauels and troubles it behoued me to suffer in com­ming into this place, so that demand what it shall please you, for I being your slaue and voluntarie seruitor, can­not but obey (without exception) all your thoughts.

Ten thousand thanks gaue she to replie, albeit it is not néedfull to vse this language in my owne behalf, con­considering I am her, ouer whom you haue so ful power, that according to time and all thinges else, the least proofe you will make shall demonstrate the true effect: but it sée­meth to me more then time you take some rest (as it is good to haue alwaies respect to the end and period of all things) wherefore shall I pray you humbly to refresh your [Page 150] selfe a little for the preseruation of your health. Thē they walked together towards the fountaine, where Marco­myr was disarmed by Celestina and her damsels, and ha­uing washt his hands and face within the same basin, hée put on a long and rich gowne, which was brought the­ther for him, then sat him downe with his lady vpon two magnificent and pompous chairs couered with wrought gold: and because that Herebus had sent his daughter to hide the day, and to spread his darkenes all ouer their he­mispheare, there were brought thether many candles and torches lighted. The swéet smelling and oderiferous sent of roses, violets, and other naturall flowers of the garden, with the vnspeakeable beautie of Celestina, then the me­lodi [...]us harmonie, which procéeded from the musick well consorted with diuerse instruments, wherevpon the dam­sels plaid most perfectly, and could moreouer sing most swéetly therevnto (so that you would haue thought of pur­pose, Orpheus, Arion, and al the other diuine musitions had ben there assembled) did rauish the spirits of the knight vp to the heauens, and made his memorie forget al his tra­uels and labours past, thinking himselfe in a place of all ioy and blisse, where he séemed to behold not the perfect beauty of a goddesse, but of a shadow only which did steale away his heart, and charmd his eies to looke vpon it.

The like was it with the yoong ladie, maruelling as much or more, at the beautifull forme and the wel accom­plished proportion of the knight, not for all that, without inwardly thanking the God of heauen to giue her such a husband: and in veritie these two louers were one of the most beatifull couples that euer man saw matched toge­ther, woorthie to compare with Hero and Leander, those two glistering stars of their time.

In this trance of ioy, and content past all conceit, did they remaine, till the damsels, aduertising them the sup­per was readie, spread before them a very faire and rich table of wood made of a Citron trée, naturally crisped in [Page 151] and out, smelling like balme, which they couered with many rare and exquisit dishes, making at one of the ends thereof, their dresser, replenished with basins, cups, and plate of gold and pearle, whose price and valour was ine­stimable. But small chéere serued the two vassals of the sonne of Citherea, for that they saciated themselues with looking one vpon another: for there is nothing more de­licious to a louer, then to behold the obiect which he lo­ueth: because loue making a breach vpon the body, and planting his seat round about the heart, debarreth the passage to all nourishment, while it is fed with this amo­rous conceit, which is such, that all you who haue tasted it, may iudge of the swéetnesse or bitternesse thereof. So supped Marcomyr and Celestina, and strait were the Ta­bles taken away by the damsels, who afterwards going to take their refection, left them both alone to deuise toge­ther at their ease.

Then approched the knight to her who had euen now rauished his heart, and taking her by the hand thus he be­gan: Alas Madame, well aspected may I call the Horo­scope of my natiuitie, séeing so great and souereigne is the happinesse wherevnto the celestiall bodies would fore­point me, in making me win by force of arms your loue: I know now that to be most true which you told me late­ly in the temple of Delphos, to wit, I might sée you bréefly at my will. Commaund me then I pray you, all that it pleaseth you I shall do [...], and shew me the way whereby I may reap [...] some fruit of the perpetuall seruice which I vow to your surpassing and most excelling vertue, that I may pacifie & giue some solugement to the inextinguible flame, which kindleth more and more in my heart. Faire knight, replined Celestina, as touching the fire which you may now féele, thinke from the same sparke procéedeth the heat which burneth me reciprocally, whereof I can­not so much maruell (considering the will of the destinies) as of you, to hear you say you saw me in some other place, [Page 152] for since I was thrée yeres old, the Fates haue enclosed me within this castle, whereinto neuer knight nor other person euer e [...]r [...]d since, but your selfe alone. As for the boone which you [...] graunted me, it is, that you shal not attempt any thing against mine honour and chast will, till the day when [...]he mariage shal be solemnised betwéen you and me, which cannot be before you haue rescued my father the king of Thessalie out of the hands of the great Turke, whose prisoner he hath bene a long time.

Wherefore you must enterprise this aduenture, which you shall bring to a fortunate end, in making your selfe lord of me, and of the whole kingdom of Thessalie, wher­of I am lawful heire after the decease of my father, so that in testimonie of this my transporting hence, from this present I put my selfe wholy into your power, vpon con­dition notwithstanding, you shall not infringe the pro­mise you haue made me. Marcomyr gaue great eare to all this, and for a while answered not a word, thinking if hée should send away, or himselfe conduct the damsel towards the Emperour, and in the meane time not to disclose him­selfe to any bodie, before he had performed the voiage of Turkie, bringing with him at his returne the king of Thessalie, if God did fauour him so much that he might set him frée out of his captiuitie. And as he was maruel­lous glad of this secret resolution which he had laid down he brake silence in this manner.

Madame so feruent and déepe is the loue I beare you, that to get the monarke of this inferiour world, I would not cause you the least griefe which might moue and dis­please neuer so little your vertuous mind, second to none liuing▪ so that albeit I had not promised you that which you haue demanded, I would neuer for all that haue diso­beied your commandement. For I repute my selfe the most fortu [...]ate knight liuing vnder the zones of the hea­uen at this day, not for the honour or glorie which I think to purchase by this aduenture, but only to sée my selfe cap­tiued [Page 153] with the perfect beautie and supernaturall grace wherwith I sée you are diuinely enriched: which from hence forward shall giue me such courage to attempt d [...]fi­cult & magnanimious enterprises, that the farthest distant of my race, shall be greatly bounden to you for the glory which by this meane shall redound vnto them. And assure your selfe well, Madame, for any paine or trauell which may present it selfe before mine eies, I shall not refuse to employ the best of all my forces to set the king your father in his pristine libertie: wherein so contrary effects can­not succéed my desires, but the only remembrance of the incomprehensible felicitie I shall win in exploiting it, will make me estéeme them lesse then nothing, or els ve­ry weake and féeble things, which may neuer in any wise alienate my mind from remembrance of you. In the mean while I hope to leaue you in the power of the Emperor, whom I loue and desire to serue most affectionately, to whom séeing I cannot more surely send you, I will con­duct you my selfe, foreséeing already the extreame anguish my heart shall suffer, finding it selfe in exile from your pre­sence: but I must tollerate for a while this violent and bitter passion, in the which the hope I haue to enioy here­after the happy and perpetual fruition of you, shal warrant me from death.

Be you hereof most assured quoth the damsell, I will neuer loue other then your selfe, to whom the irreuoca­ble fates haue destinated me, & that during your absence I shall féele no lesse torment then your selfe, so that haue me whether it shall please you: For when I would I could not mislike of it, hauing alreadie translated the con­quest of my heart into your frée will and gentle dispositi­on. Iudge you whether Marcomyr were glad of this an­swere or no, for the continuall chaunging of his counte­nance, with many other tokens procéeding from a vehe­ment flame of loue, were true witnesses of the ioy which seized all his vitall spirits: so that this ioy striking into [Page 154] him a suddaine courage, he imbraced Celestina gratiously protesting to her, he would neuer disobey her commande­ments, but from thence forward did pretend to beléeue and reuerence them as if they were the deuine Oracle of A­pollo. So he led his eies with the obiect of this princesse at the light of those burning torches which were there, and iudging her beautifull aboue all creatures whom he could call to mind he had euer séene (by reason of her liuely pur­ple coulour, that the heart which felt it selfe constantly loued of so perfect a knight sent often into the surface of her chéekes more whiter then alabaster) he was more then before inflamed with her loue. So that from point to point he began to discourse vnto her all which had hap­pened to him in the temple of Delphos, where he saw, if not her proper person, yet at least her true shape and re­presentation, with the which he assured himselfe he tal­ked a long time: whereat the Damsell greatly admired, praising vnto the skies the wisdome of the thrée Fairies, whom she thanked sincerely for procuring her such a knight to be her husband.

Then she praid him with a singular affection to tel her who he was, which he did most willingly, recounting vn­to her the history euery word, without dissembling or disguising any thing at all: vpon promise neuertheles she should not shew it to any creature, before he was retur­ned from the conquest and rescue of her father the king of Thessalie. And then he gaue her a swéet & gratious kisse, with a faire ring which his mother the quéene gaue him at his departure from Tarsus, praying her to kéepe it carefully: because he said she charged him to present it one day into the hands of the Emperor Cleodomy [...] his father: as in very déed it was the true token whereby he was re­cognished to be the Emperors son, as hereafter you shall heare.

CHAP. XXII. How Marcomyr and Celestina going towards the queen of Thessalie who was yet at the end of the bridge, met at the issuing out of the castle many ladies and knights of that isle, who attended there for them: and how the lord of the same island after he had done great honour and re­uerence to them, brought them to the queen, who carried them backe to lodge within the castell, and of the sequel.

SO great was the ioy of Celestina (hea­ring her future spouse to say he was son to the Emperour Cleodomyr) that all that night no sléepe nor any desire to sléepe could enter into her head: by meane whereof she and Marcomyr past it away in deuising together what they had best to doe, and in the end laied down the plot which liked them best.

After the cléere morning had chaced away the darknes of the night, and spread ouer the horison his blew and azu­red mantle, to prepare a passage for her swéet louer Ti­tan against he left his ruddy couch, they both together went into the dungeon of the castle, where Marcomyr wondred greatly at the riches and magnificence of the lodging of his lady Celestina. There would she néeds search him to sée if he were wounded in any place dange­rously, and finding none but brusing blowes she caused him to be bathed diligently with swéet hearbs, to be com­forted with many sorts of fomentations, and to put on a rich blacke armour, which the Fairie left there expresly for him, with a sword by which he might cast a sléepe whomsoeuer he would: the helmet and lance were born by two damsels: then descending out of the tower, pas­sing thorow the gréene garden, they came away by the [Page 156] bridge holding all hands together. Celestina was finely tricked vp with a carcakenet full of great collets set thick euery where with carbuncles, diamants▪ Rubies, Eme­rawdes, and Orientall saphires, clothed in cloth of gold cunningly wrought ouer with many litle pretious stones, embossed in figures set like vnto Silenes, or little apothe­carie boxes, whose fashion and rare artifice surmounted far the valour of the things. In one whereof was séen so great quantitie that you would haue iudged nature had bestowed in that place the most excellent and rarest gems of her treasure. Hauing moreouer wich a fillet garnished with great pearles, quainlie attired her haire yellower then the gold-twind hanging round about adowne her shoulders, and vpon her two little apples on her breast, more to be desired then those of the garden Hesperides, thus she marched with a grace no lesse gratious then be­séeming a Uirgin, who saw at her side so valiant and mag­nanimious a knight to defend them, better then any dra­gon could doe.

As they then came forth in this pomp and ioy second to none other, they found many gentlemen and ladies of the island, who attended there for them in great deuotion, and among the rest one faire and very braue knight kin vnto the Fairies, whom they did inuest with the siegniorie of that place after their death: he bowed himselfe very low, and set one of his knées to the ground before Marcomyr and Celestina, vttering with a verie good grace these spéeches:

Aduenturous and most fortunate knight, benigne and happy was the planet which raigned at the hower of your birth, séeing by your Prowesse and inestimable valour you make now accessible, and in his proper nature, the place whether we could not goe and come well at our ease. Sir quoth Marcomyr, it hath pleased the deuine bountie to doe you this benefit thorow my meane, and for that I repute my selfe a man much fauoured of the [Page 157] planets to haue set foot within the castle, if you be by any way of parētage allied to these noble ladies, who haue by their knowledg wrought we so much good (being not able to rēder such personagesthe guerdō méet to recōpence the good will they haue shewed me, since the enchantment in this isle) I giue you all the right which I may pretend in conquering of Caelestina. I thank you most humbly, quoth the knight of the isle for so great a benefit and courtesie which it pleaseth you to present me: whereof notwith­standing I know neither my selfe nor any of mine wor­thie, for that farre aboue their knowledge did passe your vertue and valiancie, as being him only who should ac­complish the aduenture of this castell, wherein the Fai­ries had emploied all their secret philosophie. Neuerthe­lesse let vs omit these circumstance [...] to some fitter oppor­tunitie, & let vs goe to the end of the bridge to giue some comfort to the quéene of Thessalie who attendeth your comming thether: for that neither she nor any other who­soeuer, can enter within the bridge before you be first come forth with her daughter, and then shall all these en­chantments cease, except the castle which shal stand for e­uer firme in his foundation, for an eternal memory of her who was once therein so long enclosed.

O God, quoth Celestina alowd, is the quéene my deare mother then here? Surely I sée the heape of all my blisse by little and little come to perfection. And as she shewed (still in her going) many signes of congratulation to her louer, the knight certified her how ten or twelue daies past her officers arriued at the end of the bridge, and she her selfe the next morrow after accompanied with many Barons and ladies, whereof Marcomyr was well a [...]aid, hoping to send away Celestina with her mother to the Emperour, and to depart himselfe quickly to go to deliuer the king of Thessalie.

When the quéene saw her daughter come so pompeou­sly attired, she was seised with so much pleasure and ioy, [Page 158] that her spirits vncapable to conceiue it, she fell downe in a traunce betwéene Ozalias armes, who had almost born her companie through the content and ease suddainely stroken into his heart, séeing Marcomyr seated vpon the top of Fortunes whéele. But as soone as Celestina was come to her, she knew right well it procéeded of the vehe­mence and superabundance of suddaine ioy, therefore she tooke her mother by the hand, and kissing it many times, began to wéepe for compassion: but she soone came to her selfe againe, and séeing her daughter hard by her, she embraced her with so ardent a motherly zeale, that she could not chuse but vnscopping the sludgates of her eies, let the tears trickle downe her chéekes, when her mother began thus:

Alas my deare daughter, how long a time it is that mine eies [...]round in teares, doe séeke by all meanes to sée you? O how many times hath my heart quailed with continual anguish, in vaine sighed and powred forth com­plaines and cries into the aire for the absence of you and of your father, wishing that which I sée may in brief bring some remedie to my griefe, by the meanes of him who hath now deliuered you out of prison? Ah pitti [...]ull mis­chance, when I remember I was so cruell and seuere a mother to you the true substaunce of mine entrals, as to suffer you to be banished and shut vp in prison so farre from me. Alas, God had predestinated it in this man­ner, which was cause, the loue of the mother nor the a­bundance of feminine pittie, could not in any thing preuent the will of the fatall destinies. And therevnto was I forced to consent, not without enduring extreame heartsgriefe, which I suffer patiently since the thrée Fai­rie sisters had vndoubtedly persuaded me I should reco­uer your father againe by the meane of him who should deliuer you from the charmes and enchauntments which they should lay vpon you. So that there resteth nothing now but to sée whether these magitians are here in veri­table: [Page 159] wherefore faire knight (whom God blesse from all mischance) séeing you haue brought into so great gladnes the soule which floated among the waues of this tempe­stuous sea of aduersity, restoring Celestina into my hands, so also I must entreat you with an affection procéeding from a heart, which shall féele it selfe for euer bounden to you, to doe so much that this ioy may be entire and perpe­tuall, to giue me her father as he is by the fatall destiny appointed: to the end we may liue together the rest of our old age in al tranquility of spirit.

The knight had great pittie on the quéene, and quickly tooke her vp by the hand, saying: Madame, I pray you vex not your selfe any further, for I haue determined to die or to worke these matters so about, that you shall passe the rest of your old yeares with more content then of the quéene of Thessalie may be imagined. Then the good ladie thanked him, and kissing his chéeke very cour­teously she replied thus againe: I beléeue vndoubtedly my son, you wil assuredly hold your promise, séeing our Lord hath so wel accōplished you in all things, that he doth not permit you to speak ought with your mouth but your hart is pricked with a desire ready to perform it to y^e vttermost.

While they were vpō these purposes, althe Barons and knights of y^e quéen did approch to kisse the hand of Celesti­na being the ioifullest mē in the world to sée her so fair & so sage, for y^e hope they had to be one day vnder the siegniory of so perfect a couple of louers. And at the last the knight of the isle besought the quéen & Marcomyr, séeing many had by this time passed easilie ouer the Bridge, to co [...]e lo [...]ge within the castell, to refresh themselues there, and to the end they might both forget their sorrows and paines past. Which they did right gladly with all their traine, who marueled as much as at some great miracle, séeing y^t rich houses of y^e Fairies built & wrought with [...]mirable architecture: & if y^e building did shew stately & magnificēt, that part of y^e island wher it was scituated séemed no lesse [Page 160] delightfull and a place of pleasant recreation. By meanes whereof, they remained there thrée daies with as much pleasure and solace, as any humane spirit might wish: nor could they saciat themselues with beholding the strange things, especially those of the dongeon wherein Celestina had bene so long time enclosed: wherby it chaunsed that Marcomyr finding the seat of this isle in so good and fertile a climat, purposed to transport thither a colonie of people out of his kingdome of Tarsus, to inhabit it the better, and to the end also this countrie might immortalise the remembrance of him and of Celestina, to the future ages of his posteritie.

There were they serued sumptuously, and with all a­bundance by the siegnior of the island, but the quéen could not glut her selfe in beholding her daughter, and talking to Marcomyr, who loued her surely no lesse then her selfe did: in such manner that they two one day being both to­gether far in talke, he praied the quéene most louingly to conduct her daughter to Constantinople, to put her on his behalfe vnder the protection of the Emperor, whom shée should tell moreouer, that so soone as he could dispatch his voiage into Turkie, he would kisse his hand, and so acquit himselfe of that promise, which he had by the mouth of o­thers made vnto him diuerse times. Lord Marcomyr qd. the quéene then, I will with all my heart doe that which you prescribe me, yet would I faine know, whether you meane to goe against the Turke with a puissant armie, for as much as if the case stand so, I will send into Thes­salie for as many companies as you will haue, and for a néed will demaund aid at the Emperours hand, who will succour mée willingly with so many legions as I would demand.

Madame replied Marcomyr, my mind is to take none other companie with me, then such as I brought hether, considering this busines shall be brought to an end, rather by aduenturous hazard, than by any forces which I may [Page 161] march into the field: and were all those of the Emperour vnited together, they shall not be able to bring it so quick­ly about. Neuertheles, sée here my resolution: You must vnderstand how I met not long since at sea with the king of Culacin son in law to the great Turke, beating vp & downe the coast of Thrace, accompanied with many o­ther Rouers, and a great consort of like faction, that with all his power he might endomage the Empire: I tooke him by faire war, and sent him forthwith fast bound and manacled as an arch pyrat and king of Rouers vnto the power of the Emperour. If perhaps I cannot by my car­riages and secret drists preuaile in mine attempts, being in that countrie, I will politickly séeke to make exchange of these two kings, vnder pretext of some good and colou­rable practises. In bréefe, I will worke as the occurren­ces of time and place will giue me leaue: wherein I be­séech the diuine bountie to shew me the spéediest and dire­ctest course, whereby I may quickly bring to a fortunate end this my so affectionat desire.

Excéeding glad was the Quéene to heare of the ex­change of the king of Culacin, so that being put in great comfort through this hope, she hastened with al diligence the departure of Marcomyr, thinking euery day as long as a thousand yeares till she saw at libertie the king her husband: the same thought Celestina also, who with her amorous becks and signs shewed vnto her louer al the fa­uour she could deuise, for that neuer going from her mo­ther, they could not giue such contentment to their hearts as they desired in amorous talke and deuise only: & more priuie habitude then kissing, had not as yet bene permit­ted in their sportings, nor did it happen at all till the day of their mariage, when Marcomyr vndid the impolluted girdle of hir virginitie, which till that day she had euer worne vntouched.

CHAP. XXIII. How Marcomyr and Ozalias accompanied the Queene of Thessalie and Celestina her daughter, departing from the isle of Carderie, halfe a daies iourney: and how after they had one taken their leaue of another, the Queene and her daughter went to the Emperors court, whether they were most welcome and excellently wel entertained.

THe quéene of Thessaly considering Marcomyr would neuer depart first, she and her daughter Celesti­na tooke their leaue in good sort of the lord of the island, giuing him many rich presents for the great benefits they had receiued of him: the like liberality felt he from the prince of Tarsus, who bidding him adie [...] as well as the ladies, would néeds beare them companie halfe a daies iourney. But before their departure the spirits of this trinitie could not contain, but they must poure out a great streame of tears, which was so tossed by the wind of their sighes, that the storme did depriue their tongues of their office, and especially that of Celestina. Wherewith Mar­comyr had his heart so griped, that he could not endure to sée her in such paine, but departed without further adieu, and tooke his way with his cousin Ozalias towards the seacoast of this isle, where he had commanded his marri­ners to attend him with his ship. All that day did Celesti­na nothing but sigh and sob, and for ought her mother could doe, she could not be merrie, but so well as they could, they continued on their way, in the which they had euery where great honour done them all along as they passed: for they knew before who they were, and the occasion of their voiage to Constantinople.

[Page 163]By meanes whereof the people ran out before them to sée Celestina, who had remained so long prisoner within the enchanted castle: and euery one said if the knight who set her frée were adorned with so high valour, she did not appeare to be indued with lesse beauty, and that it should be a paire as rare in all perfections, as euer nature might couple together in matrimonie. Then being arriued at the last néere Constantinople, the quéene sent before one of her knights to aduertise the Emperour of their com­ming, who meruelling much therat, demanded the name of him who had conquested Celestina. My lord, quoth the knight, he is called Marcomyr, one of the most valiant and courteous knights who liues this day vnder the fir­mament. You say true, replied the Emperour, but com­meth he now with the quéene? Surely no, answered the knight, for that the future deliuerance of our king hath constrained him to passe into great Turkie.

Then the Emperour commanded Diocles and all his Barons to goe forth to méet the quéene and her daughter, which they did most gladly: for vpon the famous renown alreadie spread of her euery where thorowout all the re­gions of the leuant, euery one was enflamed with a great desire to sée her. Amongst the rest would néeds venter out to behold her, Arnedes, who began but [...]o recouer of his wounds, notwithstanding he found himselfe much per­plexed, because he thought his fathers Embassadours staied a little too long, as also for that he heard no newes of his cousin Recindos. And if those of the court were all richly araied, the Quéene and all her ladies on the other side came in clothed in blacke and mourning wéed, except Celestina onely, who by the knights entreaty must enter into Constantinople in all her gorgious attire, and in her ha [...]ments of most exquisite and costly stuffe.

As [...]oone as Diocles had giuen first entertainement to the queene, he came next towards Celestina, laying his head vpon the bridle of her pal [...]rie, the like did Amedes [Page 164] to the quéen, being both astonished at the excellencie of Celestina, when Diocles began thus: Madame it séeme to me the Fairies committed a great ouersight to empr [...]son thus long so liuely and admirable a beauty as yours, considering euery gentle heart should rather endeuoured to haue gone to deliuer the king of Thessalie in séeing you, then depriued of your presence, séeing you are the guerdon of his exploit, whereof indéed may Marcomyr estéeme himselfe fortunate, if he deliuer out of prison the good prince your father. So also am I most fortunate, qd. Celestina, winning by this meane the most valiant and gentlest knight who marcheth vpon the surface of this habitable earth, wherein were many learned Fairies who shut me vp fast within the castel: for that a few expo­sed themselues into perill of death, hauing once séene me abroad openly, whereas to win honour many haue pro­ued themselues in the aduenture which was destinated to Marcomyr, as to him who surpasseth them all in Prowes and brauenesse of Chiualrie. God forbid, quoth Diocles then, I should gainesay you therein, séeing the vertues & graces of Marcomyr are such, as well merit the felicitie, wherewith the deuine prouidence would make him hap­pie now in all fulnes. And you haue iust reason to loue him, as indéed he loueth you: but séeing her so firme and constant in her affection (albeit her beauty had almost made a wound in his heart) he would not parly with her any longer of that matter.

The Emperour and the Empresse came forth with Philocrista as farre as the pallace gate to goe méet them, where the Quéene and Celestina her daughter alighted quickly from their palfries to doe them honour and reue­rence, but the good prince Cleodomyr and his honourable wife Griana welcommed them, and entertained thē most courteously. Then they lead them along into the great chamber, where the Quéene began to the Emperour in these spéeches: most happy and illustrious prince, Marco­myr [Page 165] the choice Paragon of knights, who humbli [...] kisseth the hand of your emperiall maiestie by vs, sendeth you this damsell my daughter, praying you to kéepe her vnder pour protection, vntill he returne from Turkie with the king of Thessalie my deare spouse, if God giue him leaue to frée him out of the hands of the Infidell: the which I pray deuoutly with all my heart he briefly permit him, as wel for the extreame desire I haue to sée the king my lord as for the great desire I haue to come to doe you seruice, which he hopeth in short time to compasse.

With these words she consigned vp her daughter into his hands, whom the Emperour receiued very amiably, and shewing himselfe most ioifull of their arriuall, offered them frankely all thinges which might be necessarie for the content of their spirits. Moreouer praied God he would so well direct all the actions of Marcomyr, that he might quickly set frée the king her husband out of his long captiuitie: assuring her, if the knight had ben willing to haue had forces along with him in this enterprise, he would haue aided him with a huge armie. Then the quéen answering he would haue no other companie with him but that of God and of his cousin, the Emperour began a­gain to pray in form like vnto this: He which maketh me liue in great desire to know him (for the good seruices I haue receiued at his hands) by his diuine power happilie conduct him, and after his exploit reconduct him hether a­gaine: then taking Celestina as his daughter, saith: To you Philocrista doe I giue the charge to guard this prin­cesse till the returne of her knight. My lord and father, qd. the Infant, I will obey with all my heart all your com­maundements, and beside I shall make deare estéeme of so good companie, nay I shall be passing glad to sée a dam­sell néere me, for whom so many excellent exploits haue ben worthily atchieued.

The Empresse tooke the quéene by the hand, and Phi­locrista Celestina, then they went to sit down together vp­on [Page 166] the rich seats of tapistrie which were in the presence, where the knights beholding these thrée ladies, thought there should be amongst them a second iudgement of the apple of beautie. And who had taken Arnedes for the gen­tle shepheard Paris Alexander, his deare ladie Philocrista should full soone haue ben in possession of him: because loue did so sway his heart, that he found her the perfectest of al, though Celestina excelled her in some gifts of fauor: so that all the assistants concluded by a cōmon resolution, they had neuer séen a fairer lady, except the Empresse whē she was in flower of her yong yeares. And a thing most true it was, Philocrista neuer attained to the perfection of her mothers beautie, but she had two sisters, named Fleri­da and Basilia, which resembled her very much, especially Flerida, which was iudged the fairer, as you shall heare hereafter. The emperour intreated Celestina to tell him who this Marcomyr was, if she could shew him so much: whom the princesse answered very modestly, If it please your grace, I cannot giue you any thing to vnderstand of him, but this, he commaundeth a kingdome and many o­ther seigmories of very great estate, and when I should know of him more, yet were I to be excused though I did not discouer so much (for it is his pleasure to conceale it) till he come himselfe in person to manifest his countrie and his progenie.

For this modest answer was Celestina greatly com­mended of the emperour, who iudged her to be very wise and well aduised, when he began to behold héedfully her gestures: so that spieng on her finger the ring which her louer gaue her to keepe in testimonie of his seruice, he dée­med it presently to be much like that whereof the quéene of Tarsus made him a present at his departure from her. Therefore he could not chuse but demaund her in what place she had recouered so rare a ring, and so néere resem­bling one which he estéemed the fairest of his Cabinet. The damsel answering him Marcomyr gaue it her at her [Page 167] deliuerie out of Carderie, he much maruelled therat, ima­gining in his spirit, whether the knight might be sonne to the same quéene of Tarsus or no, wherefore from thence­forward he doubled his great desire to sée him, hauing not beside forgotten the good turnes he receiued at her hands in the kingdome of Pasmerie: so that causing his ring to be brought and matched with Celestinas, he found them so like one another and conformable, that putting themboth together, you could not discerne the one from the other: as also in very déed it was all one making, and so cunningly wrought by art Magicke, to serue for the true token and cognisance of the paternall stocke of Marcomyr, whereby the emperour began to thinke he might wel be his sonne, calling to mind the secret sport the quéene and he had to­gether, when she first practised to come by his acquain­tance: yet he neuer imparted so much to any body, but did daily greater honour then before to the quéene of Thessa­lie, for her daughter Celestinaes sake, to whome hée did shew like loue as to Philocrista, so that the Empresse sée­ing the great cōtent and pleasure she receiued, passed the greatest part of her time in great ioy and solace with the quéene, and Philocrista with Celestine: who began to loue together with a loue more then common. In fine the em­perour was very glad, hearing Belcarin was not in ga [...]d of the bridge when Marcomyr ariued there, as being also very sorie for Tiraquels misfortune, albeit he estéemed the knight courteous, that would not further aggrauate the ill successe of the prince of Micene, and to say truth of his nature, he made little account to kil or wound any knight after he had once brought him to the ground, whereof the Emperour would still talke to his barons, commending him aboue the best in his knowledge: but let vs suffer him faire and softly to take his way towards Turkie, to speak a little of the good Recindos prince of Castile, which now is far gone in his quest.

CHAP. XXIIII. How Recindos arriued in the isle of Carderie, where vnder­standing Marcomir had performed the aduenture of Ce­lestine, he resolued to go meet Belcarin in Macedon: and how he had a combat against him by the false persuasion of the damsell who pursued the reuenge of her brethrens death.

REcindos being issued out of the tournie at Constantinople (as you haue heard be­fore) with good hope to find out Marco­myr, and to doe his best endeuor to bring him backe to the court, missed not much the way that he held, for lying one night by chaunce in a certaine castle where Marcomyr had lodged before, he was at supper demaun­ded by his host, into what part he trauelled: I séeke (sayd he) a knight who woon the honour of the Tourney which was lately held at Constantinople, in the which he bare a white Flower in his arms. Truly (quoth the maister of the house) he tooke his repast in this place the other night, and is one of the most courteous gentlemen that I euer saw in my life, which makes me thinke God may well make him finish the aduenture of Celestine, whether hée assured me he went directly from hence, to prooue himselfe therin. Right glad was the Spaniard hearing this news, so that he thought it a long time vntill it were day, that he might go after him.

Day being come, he mounted to horse betimes in the morning, with full purpose to make stay in no place be­fore he ariued in the isle of Carderie. Eight daies he tra­uelled without any disturbance, hearing in euery place certaine news of this knight. He spurd on liuely, hoping either to performe the aduenture, or else to méet with him [Page 169] whom he sought: but as soone as he was arriued in the isle, he vnderstood that Celestina was deliuered, Marcomyr had taken the rout of Turkie, and T [...]raquel was retired into the castell of Lipes whether his sisters had conducted him so soone as he was vanquished.

This was strange newes for Recindos: but the good knight Tiraquel conceiued so much sorrow and discontent hereby that he had almost died for griefe▪ neuerthelesse as speedily as he knew certainely of the conquest of Celesti­na, he dispatcht away a squire to aduertise Belca [...]in therof, praying him of all affection, to stay himselfe in the court of Macedolite, from whence he stirred not, bathing him­selfe in the floud of all delightful pleasures. Neuerthelesse these delights were nothing in respect of those of Alderin: who for the vertues which she heard were euery where spread abroad of him (besides her owne eies saw them to be farre greater) she loued him as her proper life: and if seemed to her to arriue at the very top of al worldly blisse, being to haue him one day to hu [...]band: [...]uery hower of which time was a thousand yeares to her before her de­sires came to effect. Therefore vpon a time [...]fter dinner, she besought him in any waies, he would return no more to the isle of Carderie, giuing him to vnderstand secretly the great loue shee bare him, and how the [...]uke her father and the duchesie her mother were content to giue her to him in marriage, with their whole estates and siegnio­ries, as his owne true hereditarie succession after their decease.

Madame quoth Belcarin, I repute my selfe this day the happiest knight whom euer fortune aduaunced to the top o [...] her wh [...]e, seeing my selfe required of that, wherein I would employ all my best en [...]ours to attaine some hap­p [...] end, so I besée [...]h you most humbly (for that I haue long since cho [...]en and desimated you for the onely mistre [...]e of my heart) to speake be [...]ore your departure something tou­ching this t [...]nes to the king, that he putting to his hel­ping [Page 170] hand, it may sooner sort effect according to our de­sires. As touching my returne to the garding of the castle of Celestina, Madame you know I cannot surcease with­out somewhat impairing mine honour, séeing I haue made promise & vowed before so many, which may hereof reproch me and impute it to my disgrace: but I hope some mans hap wil be to accomplish (before it be long) that ad­uenture, in guarding which if I doe my best endeuour, it shall be that only which shall saue me blameles.

In the meane time I pray you trouble not your mind, nor despaire not of his firme and indissoluble amitie who shall be yours for euer. Whereof may giue you sufficient testimonie my comming now to this court, whether I had not come for any thing in the world, without the especial command which I receiued by your letter.

Alderine was ouercome with ioy at so good an answer, and as she was recounting it to the Quéene Griana, arri­ued Tiraquels post, he doing his message to Belcarin, made him very heauie with the newes: for that he would faine haue then ben present in the guard of the bridge to haue tride himselfe against this so redoubted a knight: albeit it fell out better for him: for although he was of all men re­puted for valiant and skilfull in Armes, yet his valor ne­uer could come so high as to make compare with that of Marcomyr.

But the damsell that pursued to haue Belcarin slain, if you remember in the beginning, to reuenge the death of her brethren, whom she supposed had ben felloniously slain by him, being aduertised of his departure from Carderie, followed him hard euen into the court of Macedon, where séeing him so welcome to the king, the Quéene, and al the chiefest nobles, went thence in despaire neuer to be auen­ged of him: therefore did she full heauily still wéeping & wailing take her way homewards to her friends, and the fourth day after her departure, she found Recindos néere a fountaine, making the most grieuous and lamentable [Page 171] complaints that any eare had euer heard. For when he heard that Celestina was gone to Constantinople, he pur­posed to passe thorow Macedon, where peraduenture he might yet find the knight whom he sought. Recindos then séeing this ladie wring her hands and take on so terribly, demanded of her the occasion of her mone: she who had learned her lesion perfectly and could play her part with­out booke (knowing him alreadie by his looke to be pitti­full and ready to doe for her any thing to deliuer her out of this anguish) told the like tale as she had before done to Ti­raquel and Sergio, wherof you may very well remember: in conclusion that the knight who had traiterously slaine her brethren, soiorned in the king of Macedons court. Re­cindos then who was very desirous to purchase honour in euery place, made her this answere▪ if it be so as you tell me, that the knight slew your brethren by treason, I pro­mise you vpon the faith of my knighthood to worke your reuenge according to my power, for euery Gentleman receiuing knighthood, bindeth himselfe to succour damsels oppressed by their enemies and all others that shal worke them despight.

The dissembling woman cast her self downe at his féet to kisse them, swearing and blaspheaming many times, that what she had shewed him was most certaine & true: Come then along with me, and shew me the knight quoth Recindos, and I promise you againe to die in the field, or to make him confesse in presence of all, the dis [...]o [...]all act he had committed: séeing the folly of his counsell had so much blinded his eies as to neglect the true honour of his nobi­litie, before so soule a note of infamie. The shameles wo­man remounted vpon her palfrie, and they roade so many daies iourneies together vntill they arriued in Macedon, where they came to alight right before the palace against Belcarins lodging, which the damsel knew ful wel: wher­fore they went presently vp together into the great cham­ber, and méeting the king as he came from masie accom­panied [Page 172] with Belcarin, the foolish woman turned toward Recindos, saying: Seignior, sée there the knight who slew my brethren, I pray you of fauour make him know be­fore the king that it was by treason, which he had a great while before deuised against them: for the good prince ig­norant of this foule offence, reputeth him wrongfully one of the most courteous knights of his court, as I haue plainly perceiued since I soiorned in this place.

Then Recindos bowed himselfe down before the king Florendos with a most humble reuerence, and turning his face toward Belcarin, who was on the other [...], spake thus to him: Sir knight this Damsell hath swo [...]e vnto me that you haue slain two of her brethren by great trea­son, after they had in most courteous manner entertai­ned you in their fathers house: if this be true you com­mi [...]ted a most cowardly ouersight, which I mean to make you confesse by force of arms, if you haue the stomack to enter the close field with me. Belcarin was highly offen­ded, to haue this outrage vpbraided him so often, and al­waies by her means who put him many times in danger and perill of death: wherefore he answered, not without some little choller procéeding frō a stomack féeling it selfe greatly iniuried in this manner: Surely knight you séem as much simple & sturdie in saying, if I haue the stomack and hardinesse to enter into combat with you, as is the damsell false and disloiall in accusing me wrongfully: not­withstanding I hope to make you pay deare for this your rashnes of beliefe, and likewise the lying and froward woman for her sugred spéeches, whereby she hath decea­ued you.

In heat of these spéeches he tooke his armes, to present himselfe soone after in the combat: which the king would willingly haue hindred, if by any means possible he could: but Recindos was so eager against Belcarin, that the king who could not dissuade from his attempt, at the last en­treated him thus much, Séeing you will not fulfill my [Page 173] pleasure herein, at the least let me know the name of him who wil so little gratifie him that would not be vngrate­full if occasion did present it selfe to doe you the the like pleasure. I am quoth he, a knight of a strange countrey, who arriued in the court of the Emperour of Constanti­nople at the nuptials of the prince of Hungarie, whether by chaunce came another knight vnknowne, bearing a white flower vpon his sheild, who after he had woon the honor of the Tourney, departed secretly from the assem­bly, which constrained me to follow incontinent in his quest: and for that I follow the way of knights errant, I beséech you let no man wrong me in the battaile.

Assure your selfe thereof quoth the king, that you shall haue to doe with your aduersarie onely: yet it v [...]xeth me to the heart, that comming from the court of the emperor Cleodomyr my sonne, you will enter the field against him who is one of his greatest fauorits. Whē Recindos heard Belcarin named, on the one side he was excéeding glad he had to trie himselfe against so famous and renowned a knight, and on the other he was meruellous sorrie, be­cause his enemie was brother to Me [...]is [...]a whom he held dearer then himself: [...] that he would willingly haue sur­ceased the combat▪ if he could with his honour: but in the end the king requested the duke of Pontus and another very braue knight of his court, to iudge betwéen them ac­cording to their conscience and without any exception of persons. Then the knights appearing within the listes, set vpon the one side of the pallace, when the signe was giuen, they ran with such a tempest one at another, that their lances flying in péeces, they fell both downe to the ground: neuertheles both of them being quick and nim­ble, they were with a trice vp againe: So they began to strike at one another without all pittie, and desiring both to be victors, they burst and beat asunder their armour on their backes as in open war at all defiance: so that they were both wounded in diuers parts of their bodies.

[Page 174]Therefore the king and the other lookers on, maruel­ling to sée them so obstinate in their fight, said they neuer saw so much magnanimity in any two knights before: wherevpon the king supposed that Belcarins aduersarie was the very same who had deliuered Celestina out of the enchanted isle: for reputing his nephew a most braue and hardie man at armes, he saw him then in great danger of his person. The two knights tired and almost done, with­drew themselues to breath a little, which was not long before Recindos renued the assault, saying it was a moc­kerie to breath so long before a king, but the battell be­ing begun againe, by reason of the abundance of blood which issued from them in euery ones sight, they could not strike such fell str [...]kes as they did at the first: By reason whereof king Florend [...]s perceiuing Belcarin waxed fée­ble, and that if they should be let alone to decide this con­trouersie, they would die both in the place, desiring rather the life then the death of the one or the other, he cast his rod of peace betwéene them: and going from the window, thorow which he beheld them combatting, he descended downe vnto them, requesting of all affectionate loue, they would cease this cruell battell: Sir quoth Recindos, that cannot by any means be, vnlesse the Damsell would pardon him first the iniurie she had receiued at his hands. I will my selfe goe speake to her quoth the king, in mean time doe not fo [...]le your selues any more in this quarrell, considering you haue both sufficiently shewed your man­hood and haughtie Chiualrie. Then he went strait to the damsel (who was the ioifullest in her heart that might be, séeing her enemie Belcarin in such an ill taking, for of a troth was neuer knight brought into so low an extremi­tie) and began thus to tempt her: Faire gentlewoman I pray you let me entreat you not to cause the death of two so valiant champions as those are, and I beséech you par­don Belcarin (for my sake) if he hath in ought offended you, for I hope he shall make you such amends, and doe that [Page 175] penuance which you shall please to put him vnto: and for my part I promise to shew you such courtesie, as you shal one day haue occasion to thanke me for that it was my hap to moue you therein.

To that will I neuer consent while I liue (qd. the damsel) for I had rather sée Belcarin die presently before my eyes, then to haue the monarchie of the thrée parts of the world vnder my power, considering the hainous and detestable treason whereby he hath so villanously abused my father, and all his posteritie: and lesse will I euer absolue my knight of the promise which he hath made me. The king entreated her once more with great instancie, and so did likewise all those who did accompanie him: neuertheles it was all in vaine, for she was so fixed in her most deadly grudge, that she tooke no pleasure in any thing, but in ex­aggerating the hainousnesse of the case.

When the quéene (who felt her selfe in a great agonie through the perill wherein she saw Belcarin was) vnder­stood the refusall of this damsell vpon the truce and accord of the two knights, she herselfe went to speake to her with the duches of Pontus, and the princesse Alderine her daughter, entreating altogether that she would acquite Recindos of his promise, and the quéene would retain her for one of the ladies of honour of her house. But all those entreatings auailed no more then those of the king, to mooue that inexorable damsell to pittie, whom when the quéene saw her so full of mutinie and crueltie, she swore in great anger, vnlesse she would pardon quickely both the knights, she would make her die a shamefull death, for there was a murmuring before, that the accusation layd against Belcarin, was false and malicious. The Damsell hearing the quéene speake in so great a rage, was greatly affeard, and had also some compassion on the tears which she saw stream incessantly downe faire Alderins chéeks, so that alighting from her palfrey, she prostrated her selfe at the quéens [...]éet, crauing pardon for the great errour and [Page 176] offence she had committed against her maiestie by ingra­titude, refusing her a thing which was in her power to do, and that she did with all her heart pardon the one, and ac­quit the other of the knights.

Then the quéene embraced her in token of thanks, and causing comm [...]undement to be giuen Recindos should procéed no further in the battell, tooke her along with her ladies into the palace: & the king taking the two knights in either of his hands one, brought them into the great chamber, where he caused them to be disarmed, and bee­ing laid in two rich beds, which he commaunded to bée made presently ready for them, he caused his learned phi­sitions and chirurgi [...]ns to looke diligently vnto the hea­ling of their wounds, which were in no small number: Whilest they were in cure, he visited them both so conti­nually, that they were accorded and reconciled together: likewise the quéene and the duchesse of Pontus and Alde­rine her daughter, came euery day to passe the time away telling many merrie tales and pleasant discourses one to another, to release and assuage their minds of that foyle they had so vnmerci [...]ully taken one o [...] another in their combat, wherein hauing both made trial of one anothers prowesse and strength they much esteemed and commen­ded ech other. The quéene who retained with her the damsell, married her a [...]terwards honourably, and Belca­rin so soone as he recouered footing, made her confesse be­fore the king the quéene, Recindos, and diuers others, how she had alwaies accu [...]ed him fals [...]y, because the same night he lodged in her fathers house, he neuer [...] nor knew at all any brethren she had.

CHAP. XXV. How after Marcomyr & Ozalias had embarked themselues to saile into Turkie, they arriued in a hauen very neer the castell of Albase where the king of Thessalie was priso­ner, and how Marcomyr purposed to be at the [...]ourney which was held for a daughter of the captain thereof, and the sequel.

MArcomyr hauing left the quéene of Thessalie and Celestina her daugh­ter, trauelled hard till he came to the hauen where his pilots staied for him with his ship, thinking vp­on nothing still but the great beau­tie of his ladie, and how he might deliuer the king her father, to giue some release to his ardent and passionate desires. It hap­pened as his marriners arriued in the same place where he appointed them to cast anker, they found vpon the sand a Turkish seaman very grieuously sicke, where he was cast out of some Christian ship, which had past that way the day before: Those of Tarsus knowing him to bée a Moore, tooke him vp, and incontinently carried him into their ship, to the end to recouer him vnto his former health, who by that time the prince came aboord to them, felt himselfe strong inough to endure labour at sea. By means wherof, vnderstanding Marcomyr would put o­uer into Turkie, besought most humbly to doe him the fa­uour to suffer him to go along with them in his ship the­ther, & for r [...]quitall of such a benefit he would whē he was ouer, c [...]duct him euery where thorow al parts, whether it shoul [...] please h [...]m: [...]or he did perfectly know a rutter of all the cr [...]kes and turnings which way they were to sail, and knew moreouer all the seacoast of Turkie.

[Page 178]The knight was very glad of this good hap, accepted of him for the master of the ship: and not concluding any thing toward what coast they should first set saile, at the last aduised to thrust into the néerest hauen to the cittie of Tubanta: wherefore he demanded the Turke, if there were any port there abouts, which was a good and safe harbor. Sir quoth he, I will carrie you if you will into a créeke of y^e sea very secret, where very seldome come any great vessels: for that on the shore there is none other then that of my father, who fisheth there abouts: & this créeke lieth within one daies iourney of Tubanta, and within another of the castel of Albase, in which the great Turke holdeth at this present the king of Thessaly priso­ner, and al his treasur, vnder the guard of a hardy knight who is captaine thereof. And well can I assure you sir knight, there is not any handfull of earth in all that coun­try which I know not (as well by night as by day) as wel as the coasts of the hauen, whereof I speake vnto you now: Where you may remaine in safetie, and doe what­soeuer you shall please, no man to say you nay in any thing, for the benefit which I now receiue at your hands.

Marcomyr was still more ioiful, séeing so good a begin­ning laid before hand for the execution of the matter hée went about, therefore he praied his Turke that he would make a short cut of it. All his equippage was soone in a readinesse, and as good luck serued, hoising vp his saile­yards, a prosperous and fauorable gale blew them so far, that in few daies they came to surge in the coast of Tu­banta, and afterward to cast anckers in the same port. There went the Turkish mariner a shore to giue order to prepare a chamber for the knight, and finding not his fa­ther at home, aduertised his mother and two yonger bre­thren he had, who shewed themselues very glad of his re­turne: but far gladder was Marcomyr, séeing himselfe in so secret and remote a place, moreouer néere the castell of [Page 179] Albase, wherein was captiue the king of Thessaly whom he sought.

Orican was the Turkish mariners name, who hauing told his mother of the great fauour that the knight whom he conducted had done him, returned aboord presently, praying Marcomyr to come a shore to refresh himselfe a little in their house, which he willingly did, being wearie and annoied with the pestred aire of the ship: after that he had equipped himselfe with his rich blacke armor which the Fairies left him in the castell of Carderie, and with the sword which had force to enchant and cast in sléepe whomsoeuer he would, by vnsheathing it: It was a large one, and short like a cemitorie, but grauen very artifici­ally and guilded, garnished beside with thrée sorts of ada­mant, whereof she sheath was made of the one, the hilts and the pommell of another, and the handell of a most rare and pretious Calamite that might be found, the blade of most pure and fine stéele, and the best temper that was e­uer giuen to a sword: in briefe it was iudged the rarest péece of worke that euer was séen in that kind.

Oricans mother receiued Marcomyr and Ozalias with the greatest entertainement and welcome she could de­uise, and in the euening came home the old fisherman who was very glad to sée his sonne whom he accounted forlost and forlorne: notwithstanding he was much abashed to sée what companie he had gotten and made to come a­shore, to entertaine them after marriners manner in so poore a house as his. And as he began to aske of his wife whence procéeded this good fortune, Marcomyr demanded of him from what part he came, whervnto the good man answered him very courteously: from a cittie sir, not far distant, whether I went this morning to sell some fish, which I made away quickly, because there is assembled a great number of knights to be present at the mariage of the daughter of the lord thereof, whom he marieth to the sonne of the captaine of Albase: & there [Page 180] I staid some what the longer, to the end to sée the bride­grome and a sister of his which he brought with him who is estéemed the most beautifull and the finest yong Dam­sell of all the round world. The which is of very many great lords demanded in mariage, but she will not accept of any, saying that she wil neuer marie with any but with him, who shall deserue her by his Prowesse and dexterity of armes: so that many braue and valiant knights are come to sée her for this intent, and haue ordained vpon the third day of the feast, a triumph for the loue of her, who in the mean space goeth so pompously attired, that she draw­eth into great admiration all those who looke vpon her: & I tell you sir, there is such a concourse of people, that it séemeth to be the court of the great turke with his bassoes and Ianissaries.

Marcomyr who listened to him most attentiuely, remai­ned some little while pensiue, and afterward bethought himselfe, if he might but once by his subtil deuises enamor this Damsell, he might easily at his pleasure enter into the castell of Albase, where he should haue better meane to set abroch his statagems [...]or the deliuerance of the king of Thessalie, for this cause he purposed to bée at the Tri­umph, and in going to his bed, he imparted all this af­faire to Ozalias, who commended and liked highly his po­litick inuention.

The morrow morning Marcomyr made the fisherman know he would be one at the triumph, by reason whereof he bestowed something on him in gift, praying him to haue in speciall regard his ship and mariners: then de­parted accompanied with Ozalias and Orican, who was his guide and did him much seruice in his practises about this busines. They were not far gone before they met by the way one of Leifidaes pages (so was the Damsels name who was daughter to the lieutenant of Albase, for whom they should Ioust) who was sent from his mistres to goe sée a sister of hers maried there néere at hand, lying [Page 181] then in childbed. Marcomyr comming towards him, gaue him a courteous and affable salutation, & demanded of him if the triumph were held the next day following. Yea ve­rily quoth the yong youth, at least they haue all so agréed, and if you come thether you shal find many hardy knights within the palissadoe: but I beléeue the partakers of Ri­polo (so is the name of the bridegrome) wil cary away the honor of the tourney, because many hardie and valiant champions are come to this feast for the loue of Lefida his sister my mistresse, and to the end to find better meane to present him their seruice, would take his brothers part being one of the chiefest in the triumph.

Then the prince recalling in mind the perfections of his Celestina, breathed forth a déepe fetcht sigh, and on the other side was maruelous glad to haue met with the mes­senger of this damsell: wherefore by this meane to win his acquaintāce, he procéeded thus with him. Gentleman I may déeme the excellent graces of your mistresse to bée so amiable, that in an instant they will captiue and en­trap those who doe behold it, but I can well assure you, there is one readie with his entire will and most sincere affection to serue her, who neuer yet appeared before her face: which I speake for my selfe, who abandoning the place of my natiuitie, haue trauersed (wish almost insup­portable trauell) many and diuers countries, to come he­ther to make her vnderstand the extreame deuotion I haue to be her perpetuall and faithfull seruant. Where­vnto only the renowne of her excellent beautie, which I thinke hath pierced thorow the whole circuit of the earth, hath induced me. And séeing my good hap is so fauorable at this present as to méet you so fitly, albeit you know mée not yet, and that I haue towards you merited nothing, I would neuerthelesse of fauor entreat one thing of you, which you should doe for me: by the effect whereof beside you shall purchase notable reputation of courtesie and gentlenes, which all noble borne of your age ought to [Page 182] haue in singular recommendation, I hope to make you know it is no ingratefull person whom you shall gratifie with such a pleasure, and that you should not repent to make me your debter in a far greater good turne. What would you haue me to doe, quoth the yong man? For as much as you séeme to me vertuous and a man at arms (if it be to me a thing possible and honorable) I will doe my best indeuor willingly.

Thanks for your good will replied Marcomyr, & know that I would obtaine of you nothing else, but if it would please you to tell your mistresse, a strange knight who commeth into this country but to sée her graces and ver­tues, commendeth himselfe most humby to her good grace, and praieth her with a most inward affectionate loue that she would accept him for her knight in the tourney: with intention to shew himselfe second to [...] in exploit of armes, hauing no readier meane to manifest vnto her the insufferable passion of his heart: and to the end shée may know me, I shall not be of her brothers side, but against those who take his part, hoping to make them forsake the field one after another, by means of the force and hardi­nesse that her liuely beautie shall giue me, if she grant me so much fauor: Whereby I shall repute my selfe the most fortunate knight into whom the planets haue euer infu­sed their celestiall influences.

The page séeing Marcomyr beautifull, and richly ar­med, déemed that he must néeds be some great personage, wherefore he framed this answer thus to him modestly: Sir, I should not dare to enterprise this for any man li­uing, without some acquaintance before, or knowing that he had some familiaritie with my mistresse: neuerthe­lesse, estéeming it a thing of small consequence, and that you deserue more fauor at my hands then this, I will wil­lingly carrie her this message, for your sake who entreat me with such instance▪ Marcomyr thanked him againe, and to make him more beholding to him, that he might [Page 183] beare well in mind this businesse, caused his Squiers to giue him something for a present, which well contented the messenger▪ and deuising together of many other mat­ters, they came at last to Prissa (so was the cittie of the fa­ther of the bridegroome called.) They found there, all a large plaine couered quite ouer with pauillions: where Marcomyr chose out for himselfe a place which liked him best, commaunding to erect there a rich and faire tent.

In the meane time the young man tooke honestly his leaue, and entred full glad into the citie, where was heard of euery side great triumph and magnificence, for that was the first day of the mariage. Leifida had no sooner spied him, but she asked what newes from her sister? Where­vnto he answered, that he left her making good cheare, and praying him to present her humble commendations to all those whom she knew would be glad to receiue thē. When he saw her withdraw her selfe late in the euening into her chāber (knowing thē or neuer was the fitest time to deliuer his other message) he followed her at an inch for the same purpose, & taking her aside a litle frō hir damsels, as though he would haue imparted some secret to her frō hir sister, he made the whole discourse vnto her as Marco­myr had informed him. I cannot bethink me qd. she then, who may this knight be who hath ben so hardy as to send me these presumptuous messages, being he saith he is a stranger, & that he hath for my loue abandoned his coūtry. In sooth nor I, qd. y^e yong mā, of this can I wel ensure you, he sheweth himself descended of great parētage, & is one of the most beautiful & fairest personages that I euer saw in my life. As for his courtesie and liberality, behold here (in shewing her the earnest of their deathes, albeit nei­ther of them thought thereof) what largesse he hath vsed, causing to be deliuered me by his Squiers these rich pre­sents which he hath giuen me.

Truly I wonder much replied the Damsell, that this [Page 184] knight commeth from so far a countrie to sée me, well might I be reputed very ingratefull (whosoeuer he be) if I did not thinke well of his so great trauell. Therefore faile not to shew me him to morrow, so soone as hée shall enter within the lists, to the end I may marke well his doings.

Most willingly will I doe your commaund, answered then the yoong man, and I can better then any other sa­tisfie you, for I know him very well by the rich armes which he beareth, and by a goodly courser vpon which ye­sterday he was mounted. So did the page begin the train which came to end in the damsels braine, who (after that she had set it on fire her selfe) felt such a burning all that night, that she could not sléepe any winke: thinking and imagining still who might this knight be that came so far from a strange countrie to sée her.

CHAP. XXVI. How Marcomyr commeth to the tourney which was held for Leifida, wherein he vanquished all that appeared a­gainst him, winning hir loue thereby: and how they spake together by the deuise of their messenger, who was cause that Marcomyr and Ozalias entred easily into the castell of Albase.

THe morow being come which was the triumph day, Leifida attired her selfe most sumptuously, as wel with rich habiliments, as with all other her precious ornaments: and after dinner, at the iust hower when the sporting should begin, she wet with the bride, and with many other la­dies and gentlewomen vpon the scaffolds, and into the pauilions which they had pitched for them in the plaine. [Page 185] Then assembled the knights together which were for both parties, about two thousand, all men of cheife, and very braue champions, and being entred within the bars, euery one began to shew his prowesie and dexteritie: but because the number of valerous champions was far grea­ter on the bridegroomes part then on the contrarie side, they fetcht about the aduersaries so well, that they had borne away the price of the battel, if Marcomyr and Oza­lias had not come into the bickering: who knowing this kind of skirmish a little better then those of that Region, made themselues known what maner of men they were by the trial that they made of them, especially Marcomyr, who emploied himselfe in such maruellous déeds of arms, that before the page sayd any thing, Leifida knew him by his incomparable exploits, whereof she and all the loo­kers on, were in a great woonder: because if hee shocked fiercely, yet he knew better to manage and voltidge his horse, so well, that there was no knight who durst stand before him, so that at last being thorowly heated, as a ty­ger following his prey, he chased all his enemies to the retreit. Then séeing the tourney ended to his honour, hée returned into his tent with Ozalias, who had behaued himselfe also for his part very valiantly, but they did not disarm themselues till night, mistrusting least they would séeke to lay some ambuscado for them: as happeneth of­tentimes in such sports and pastimes, when the vanqui­shed being prouoked with malice and enuie, conspire to lay rods in pisse against the vanquishers.

When Ripolo perceiued his people were put to foile and vanquished, he was very angrie in his stomacke be­cause he loued affectionatly Leifida his sister, and doubted least she would impute the fault to procéed from him: not­withstanding she had not her heart vpon any other thing but on the knight to whom the honor of this victorie was truly due, commending him to the heauens for his admi­rable addresse and magnanimitie.

[Page 186]Faine would she haue vnderstood the whole processe of his historie, and knowing no better mean, tooke to her a­side her Embassador of the day before, whom she setteth thus aworke: vnspeakeable séemeth to me the generous­nes of this strange gentleman, who knew full well how to put in effect the resolution, whereof he sent me word yesternight by you, for which you must néedes goe thanke him from me, and also for the great trauel and pain which he hath sustained, to come for mysake thus far: moreouer as he hath in ample sort shewed me his force and prowesse in armes, tell him that I desire no lesse to sée his person being disarmed: Wherein to satisfie me, (if he will be this euening at the banket with my brother who is new­ly espoused) he shall doe me this pleasure▪ which I wil not faile to account in the number of the kindest which I may receiue from him.

The yong man went to dispatch this message. In the meane time while they did couer in the great chamber, al their talke was of nothing else but of the great prowesse of the knight who had won the Tourney, and that which drew the people into more admiration was that no bodie knew him, not Ripolo himselfe, who would very faine haue knowne the certaintie what he might be, but none could giue him any certaine newes. At the last Leifidaes page being come to Marcomyrs tent, deliuered him his message in wise manner, whereof the knight was merue­lous well apaid, and returned him this answer. Gentle­man, I pray you certifie your mistresse from me, that I would not for any thing disobey her commaundement, be­cause no other thing in the world forced me to come so far from mine owne countrie, but an extreame desire I had to present vnto her my humble seruice, reputing my selfe most happie if she will but employ me in any thing which may be pleasurable vnto her. To goe sup with the Bride­groome, it séemeth to me a thing a little repugnant to the small acquaintaunce which I haue as yet with him, and [Page 187] with those of his companie: neuertheles I thinke verily to be there soone after supper, to the end mine eies may take their full repast at the obiect of the celestiall visage and comely grace of your mistresse, beséeching you in all deare affection, that you doe not make knowne to any who I am. And if peraduenture I may speake a little in secret with her, I shall tell her thinges which shall make her liue in ioifull content all the rest of her life. Wherein if you will be a third agent, loiall, and fauorable, to bée a meane of her good and your owne, I will return you such recompence that you shall call a hundred and a hundred times happy the hower, wherein through appointment of the destinies you met me by the way: for albeit you sée me now alone, and in this simple equippage of a knight errant, I possesse neuertheles great wealth, rich prouin­ces, and great state. Sir, answered the messenger, I will employ willingly my person, to doe you all the seruice I may deuise in things which shal not empaire mine honor, nor that of my mistresse: and I will take beside very good order that you shall not be knowne of any but of hir who desireth extreamely to come to that point. Then Marco­myr disarmed himselfe, and cast a Turkish gowne about him, carying vnder it his sword only, & came along with the yong man into the great chamber wher the feast was kept: there standing in a corner, where he might sée and be séene of Leifida, began to eie her with none other then a demure, smiling, and fained looke, to the end thereby to worke a cautelous meane to deliuer thence ere long the king of Thessalie.

And whilst he plaied his counterfeit pageant very cir­cumspectly, the page went vnto Leifida his mistresse, tel­ling her softly in her eare: Sée yonder madam the knight vanquisher of the Tourney, who praieth you in all deare loue, you will not disclose him to any of this countrie, whether he directed his voiage, onely to sée if your beauty and excellent graces did second your renowne which re­sounded [Page 188] into his eares, euen into his owne countries, ho­ping if it be so, (for he hath alreadie opened to me the most secret gate of his heart) so to employ himselfe in matters of all difficultie to come by your acquaintance, that you shall haue none other occasion but to loue him, at the least to thinke your selfe much beholding to him for the trauell you your selfe shall sée him take for the same effect. The rest that hée told mee, I will recount it you at leasure in a place that may séeme fit to make vnto you so long a discourse.

The Damsell who was sage and well aduised, left off at that time to conferre any longer with her new secreta­ry, fearing least the assistants might misdéeme the loue which had alreadie too lightly ouercome her: but being not able to dissemble it long time, she cast her eies vppon Marcomyr, who imagined still his plot how he might bring his matter about. And she perceiuing him so pen­siue, interpreted this Saturnine stilnes to her good, thin­king it procéeded [...]rom the rauishment that her beauty & graces might haue driuen him into, according to the news which her messenger had brought her before. Ouer and a­boue, iudging in him more comelinesse, forme and swéet­nesse of phisiognomie, then in any other whom she knew, she was so enamoured in the very place with his enti­sing looke, that for the quenching of this flame, she desired then no greater thing, then to speake vnto him to know who he was.

Marcomyr neuer departed from the place, till euery bodie almost was retired, and his long tarying there sée­med not to be in vaine, assuring himselfe it would returne some [...]ruit vnto him, for he conceiued alreadie in his vn­derstanding by the amiable and often eyings of the dam­sel, that he should obtaine of her the greatest point of his desire, the which he must néeds communicate to Ozalias, who neuer boudged from him.

In fine, when she saw them depart, afterward she en­tered [Page 189] by and by into her chamber, who calling aside to her the messenger of her loue, she began thus: Ah page, most true are the words thou didst tell me of the knights beau­tie, whose comely gesture and séemely grauitie (if I de­ceiue not my selfe too much) with his prowes and valor in armes, make me déeme him the flower of the best accom­plished gentlemen that I euer yet beheld: Madame, said the young counsellor, if you will sée many perfections in­fused into one bodie, I beséech you speake vnto him as soon as you may, and let not slip out of your hands the happie and inestimable good which the destinies haue sent you hi­ther fatally: wherein his eloquent and fluent tongue shall witnes sufficiently the rest of his vertues, whereof you shall find your [...]elfe so well satisfied, as he may not re­quire that thing at your hand, which you can well denie him. How can I speake vnto him, quoth Leifida thē, with­out incurring blame, and wronging mine honor which I haue hitherto carefully preserued, if it be not by your meane in some secret place, whether he may be brought, to take away all suspition from people, who are now a­daies so prompt and readie to make the very innocents examples of their mallice? I will tell you quoth the yong man: you remember that my lord your father praied you the other day to returne to him as spéedily as you might possiblie: that will serue you in stéed of a good occasion to take your honest leaue of this companie, and if you will depart too morrow in the late of the day, you shall goe to bed to my mothers house, whether I will goe before you with the knights, to entreat her to say: they be her two ne­phews who come thether oftentimes to visit her. So may you at your discretion deuise and parly together. You say well replied Leifida, neuertheles you must looke you be ve­ry discréet herein, least our deuise be discouered.

This plot being taken and concluded vpon for good, the yong man went the morrow morning to be with Marco­myr at his vprising, and hauing made him a glad mā with [Page 190] this newes, they mounted incontinent on horsebacke to get betimes to his mothers house, being seated in a verie pleasant place, iust in the halfe way betwéene Tubanta and the castell of Albase, néere which streamed a fresh ri­uer, whose bankes were planted with many goodly trées, whereof al that countrie therabout was abundant, which appertained to the father of Leifida who was lord therof: when the good gentlewoman saw the two cousins she was greatly abashed, but her son had aduertised quickly how she was to behaue her selfe in that businesse, and well might she call such knights her nephewes, béeing that she was a stranger, and of a country farre distant from this place.

The mother hauing had her sons instruction, how to gouerne her selfe herein, said only this one word: God grant this busines come to a good end. Doubt you not thereof mother, quoth the guide, but it will succéed euen as you and we would wish, for this gentleman is one of the honest and best gouerned knights that I euer saw in my life, Marcomyr and Ozalias liked maruellous well the situation of this place, where they tarried alone with the good gentlewoman of the house, for that the messenger was gone backe to his mistresse, who made such diligence to depart that the new maried couple could not get her to stay a day nor an hower longer, for she thought the time so long before she was with him, for whom her heart felt so extreame passion, that by no mean he could be remoued out of her fantasie: Therefore taking her congie of al the companie, she would take along with her but foure of her Damsels and two of her fathers squiers. And she tooke the time of the day so iust, that she came about sunsetting to the place appointed, from whence her pages mother (who had made good prouision of all things she thought might séeme necessarie against her comming) went to meet her, with shew of maruellous gladnes: the entertai­ned her with no lesse ioy and welcome then she would [Page 191] haue done her owne daughter, because that in her infan­cie she suckled her alwaies with her breast: and after ma­ny welcomming and entertainments, Leifida demaunded her who might these two knights be, who had saluted her so graciously. They are quoth she, two of my nephewes, who come oftentimes to visit me, to know if I néed any thing that they may doe for me, and likewise to present their seruice to my lord your father, if he may please to employ them.

They are very welcome quoth the Damsell, and for my part I thanke them with all my heart for the good wil they beare to my lord and father: by means whereof and of the néere affinitie betwéene them and you, I shall loue them no lesse, then mine owne proper brethren and kins­men. Then Marcomyr bowing himself towards her with a lowly reuerence, thanked her courteously for the hono­rable offer she made him, and so entring into further talke Leifida could not hold her eies off him, his séemely counte­nance, good grace, and naturall beautie did rauish her so much, that from thence forward the liuely portraiture of his face was so far imprinted in her thoughts, that she did inherite nothing else thereby but an excessiue loue, which by this occasion did increase daily more and more in her.

Whilest they were in treatie of their amours, the gen­tlewoman commaunded to spread the table amidst a plea­sant tuft of trées, which was hard by the castle, wher Lei­fida did eat very little, by reason of the soueraigne plea­sure which she toke indeuising with the knight: and after­wards séeing they were both by themselues alone (because Ozalias and their hostesse were walked together abroad, and the rest went to supper presently after) the Damsell bespake him in this manner: Sir knight, I maruell very much at one thing in my selfe, that I being neuer moued for the loue of many braue gentlemen, who haue hereto­fore oft times offered me their seruice, I féele now for you (whom I haue séen but these two daies) my hart so woun­ded [Page 192] with loue, that I cannot heare nor thinke vpon any thing, but the continuall and vehement remembrance of you doth strait interrupt it. Therefore I pray you doe not therin repute me declining [...]rom that true chasti [...]y, which a pure Uirgin ought to haue aboue all other things in re­commendation: For as much as the valor and chiualrie which I sée worthily lodged vnder your beauty, second to no other, hath fatally rauished from me my libertie, with the which I kn [...]w ful wel how to defend my selfe against the sharpda [...]ts of Cupid, and now since yéelded your hand­maid and captiue, neuer to striue against the honest affe­ [...]tions, which it shall please you to shew towards your so prompt and voluntarie prisoner: Assuring my self you will not offer any thing to me which may hinder me from mar­ching among maidens of honor not ashamed to looke the best in the face. And I pray you moreouer to satisfie the extreame desire I haue to know you, imparting to me the most secret and inward meaning of your heart, and fur­ther to tell me what it will please you that I do in recom­pence for the paine you haue endured for my sake, where­vnto (mine honour being not trodden vnder foot) I will condescend as willingly, as for any that liueth in this hap­py age.

Madam replied Marcomyr, I repute my selfe so much fauoured of the celestiall bodies, considering the fauor and pi [...]ie it pleaseth you to shew me without any merit, that I feare me I shall neuer be able to accomplish the seruices which I will frankly from henceforth enterprise, to make you know the good zeale I haue not to remain ingratefull for your so great courtesie: The which if you haue easily granted me, as the only remedy and salue of mine afflicted heart▪ I hope before it be long to make you part of amēds: as you shall vndoubtedly perceiue being inuested with the great riches and high estates which you may vnderstand are prepared for you, so it may please you to go along with me into a place whether I hope [...]o conduct you in safety, [Page 193] for albeit you sée me now in simple equippage, yet so it is that God hath made me to bee borne a king, and a soue­raign ruler ouer many prouinces: not for any other end but to continue more honorablie the vnremoueable ami­tie that I shall beare vnto you all my life. This said he vpon hope to marie her with his cousin Ozalias & to haue giuen them the kingdome of Tarsus, if she would haue consented therevnto.

Faire knight then quoth Leifida, I can but meruell at you, who being a king and so valiant, as euery one who shall sée you manage armes may easily iudge, are come hether for me simple damsel vnworthie of so great honor: yet not to dissemble vnto you my resolution, assure you without my fathers consent I will neuer goe with you by my good wil: for that otherwise I should commit a too dis­loiall and hainous offence. Thus much will I willinglie doe for you, which I neuer yet offred to any other knight, to goe along with you to my father whom I will aduer­tise, that you are nephew to my nursing mother, who de­sire to serue him in whatsouer it shal please him to employ you, being assured when he shall sée your Prowes [...]es and chiu [...]lries, he will be very well content to accept you for his sonne in law. And then with his sufferance and the consent of all my friends, you may cary me whether you shall thinke best, promising you for my part neuer to make him further priuie to your doings: Notwithstanding it would bée farre better to manifest vnto him the veritie of all.

Then Marcomyr who desired nothing els but to get within the castle, by any meane whatsoeuer, plaid vpon her thus▪ Madame the heat of my passion is so vehement, that I neither sée nor can find any good thing which pro­céedeth from any other fountaine, but from the source where it tooke his beginning, my vitall spirits receauing no force and vigor to execute their functions, but from your gentle and vertuous discretion: to which I referre [Page 194] the going when it shall please you before your father, and to say vnto him whatsoeuer you shall best deuise for the assurance and peaceable fruition of the good which I pre­tēnd. These words did he vtter with a maruellous grace because of the ioy and gladnes which had seised his heart, séeing the cariage of his busines come to so good passe as he could desire: and the damsel on the other side she found her selfe so much rauished with his loue, that she could ne­uer glut her eies in surueying his beauty, and lesse for­sake his companie, so that constrained at last to go to bed, could not sléepe of all the night but a little, all sléepe being driuen away by plurality of amorous discourses swim­ming in her fansie, which had before gotten so much the vpper hand of her spirit, that incontinent they put away all other imaginations from her. With the rigour of this scourge did Leifida féele her selfe most gréeuously plagued: a far diuerse torment to that of Marcomyr who sought but by his dissimulation to worke in short time the recouerie of the good king of Thessalie: so that he past almost all that night in conferring with Ozalias about his sleights and stratagems which he was to worke for that effect: Praying him of all deare loue (being entred once into the castle) to shew himselfe hardy and valerous, putting all those who came before him to the edge of the sword, so soon as euer he should heare him giue the word of assault.

The morrow morning being come, Leifida attired her selfe very richly, and before she did depart, tooke her walke thorow the delectable enclosures of her lodging, with the two knights alarmed, except their helmets, who praied her agood to take them both with her to Albase: to the end they might haue better and more honest mean to present themselues before the captaine of the castell, to whom they desired so extreamly to doe seruice. Leifida thanked them very gratiously, and said her father should be right glad of their comming: then mounting alt [...]ge­ther on horsebacke, they arriued about noone at the castle, [Page 195] the situation & building of which edifice drew Marcomyr into great admiration: for the groundworke and founda­tion therof (being planted vpon the top of a high and fear­full rock) did of it selfe only, strike a feare into the behol­ders: and being garnished with victuals and other muni­tions was indéed inexpugnable. Approching the gates, the Damsell alighted from her hackney and the knights tooke her quickly by the hand, whom the garders suffered to enter, without making any reckoning nor enquiring otherwise of their estate, séeing them so well acquainted with Leifida, whom the lieutenant loued so dearely, that whatsoeuer she commanded or did, might not in any wise be gainsaid. Presently were the draw-bridges pulled vp, the gates well barred as they were wont, and the princes were caried into the hall, where Marcomyr vewed euery place exactly, and thinking euery hower a thousand years before he were at the skirmish in so sure a place, thanked God who had so well and prosperously conducted him thether.

CHAP. XXVII. How Marcomyr and Ozalias slew the captaine of the castle of Albase, and all his guard who were then within, deliue­ring the king of Thessalie father to Celestina out of the tower, where he had remained twentie years captiue.

WHen the captaine of the castell of Albase, who was a very honorable old gentle­man, and therefore the great Turke e­stablished him chiefe of the guard of his treasure, saw his daughter in companie of the two knights of Tarsus, he was in a meruellous mase, as if that accident had presaged vnto him the conflict and cruell slaughter, which was to bée made soone after in the fortresse. Which made him quick­ly [Page 194] [...] [Page 195] [...] [Page 196] say vnto her. Why daughter how are you come hether without your brother? Father quoth she, the desire I had the last night very late to sée you, made me presently to hasten my return hether in the company of your two squi­ers, of my foure Damsels and of the knights nephew [...]s to my nursing mother, whom I found at her house passing that way: and well can I ensure you that this (she shew­ed him then Marcomyr) is one of the [...]est and most cour­teous Gentlemen whom you euer knew in your life: whereof gaue me assurance the victorie that he obtained in the [...]ourney at the mariage of my brother, beside the honest conference he held me this morning, declaring to me the extreame desire he hath to present to you his ser­uice: so that vpon this hope I haue willingly brought him in here, estéeming it a thing of very rare and great consequence, the purchasing of such a personage to aug­ment so much the more the forces of your guard. Hée is then quoth the father, very welcome hether, & in recom­pence of his good will, he shal haue the best cheare we may prouide for him.

For all that his purpose was otherwise, because the more his daughter commended them, the more angry was he to see them within the castle, their very presence striking into him a feare and suspition: neuertheles to dis­semble it, and not to let them perceiue therof, he procéeded thus with a pleasant countenance: daughter goe you in to salute your mother, & in the meane time these knights well disarme them. This he spake, meaning to cause their armes to be lockt vp, and kept safe from them till they were out of the castell. But Marcomyr who heard those spéeches, doubting some such euent, cared not much to talke with him any further, but went strait away with the page of Leifida, who brought him vp into a very faire chamber, where in stéed of disarming themselues, they caused their squiers who carried their armes alwaies af­ter them to lace their helmets quickly, then betaking [Page 197] them to their shields with vnconquerable courage, they salied out hauing their naked swords ready drawn in their hands. Which the yong man séeing, (was more amased then if at the same instant he had lost his forme by some new metamorphosis) began to crie out in strange maner: O detestable and vile act of disloialtie, running downe a­maine to aduertise the gard, wherein he was soone pre­uented: for Marcomyr knowing he might not delay his enterprise any longer, made spéedily down into the court, where he saw the captain blaming and rebuking the por­ters for letting him in, who made their excuse vpon Leifi­da that brought him in with her. And perceiuing him to make furiously against him, he cried alarme, O my loiall and faithfull knights take armes, slay me these vilaines who are come to betray vs in this rash manner: then the prince (hauing instructed Ozalias before to win the wic­ket and kéepe it against all those that would come in to succour or goe forth to flie) remembring his lady Celesti­na, that he must either die in the place, or deliuer the king her father out of prison began to strike without pity those of the gard: the captaine séeing his honor and life redu­ced to so pitiful an exigent, laid suddainly hold on a p [...]leax which by chance he found at hand, wherewith he went to giue Marcomyr such a knock vpon his morion, that had not the creast thereof ben tempered with fine steele, he had seperated his soule from his bodie. This constrained the knight (who would not haue stroke him otherwise, for the loue of his daughter) to strike againe, so that he gaue the old man such an ataint with a blow returned to his head that he cleft his skull downe to his iawes, giuing the like entertainment to thrée or foure other knights who let driue at him, thinking to massacker him quickly: but in a small space he made so cruell a slaughter of al those which came to encounter him, that the most hardie and valiant remained in the place either dead or dangerously woun­ded. And if peraduenture any coward made to the gate, [Page 198] thinking to get out that waies to saue himselfe by flight, he fell into Ozalias hands, who shewed them but small courtesie: so that in this skirmish there remained not one man of the castle aliue, except the page which was ma­ster of the ship that brought the two cousins into this good hauen: who ran imediatly to his mistres Leifida telling her thus. Madame we are all traiterously betraied by the false and inhumane knight whom we haue brought in he­ther: Therefore I know my selfe worthy of a thousand deaths, if I might haue so many one after another: for I was the cause that my lord your father and all his guard are put to the edge of the sword. When the Damsell and her mother heard these piteous tidings, they ranne forth almost out of their wits not knowing what to do, & séeing this horrible discomfiture, they begā to wring their hands and poure forth the most pitifull complaints that euer any liuing person heard.

Leifida who accused her selfe of all this blame, fell downe halfe dead vpon her fathers corpes, vttering a spéech in this sence: Alas deare father, pardon me who am the only cause of your death, which séeing I haue ad­uanced innocently thorow the [...]ained and cautelous cir­cumuention of a Tyrant, I will presently end my daies, and to accomplish better the expiation and ceremonie of your obsequies and funerall pomps, I will let this transi­tory life & fréely offer vp my soule vnto the gods, to accom­pany yours before their throne.

Pronouncing these words with a spent voice (by rea­son of the continuall sighes which from her breast follow­ed one another so thicke) she would haue moued the most pitilesse and diamantine heart to compassion. Marcomyr who reposed himselfe at the foot of a piller, went directly to her where she made this mone: who perceiuing him come, ran vpon him, as a lionnesse enraged when her whelpes are taken from her, crying out amaine: Ha cru­ell and fellonious knight séeing thou hast slaine my father [Page 199] all his guard and people, why doest thou not make an end of me also? How long wilt thou linger before thou send my woefull soule out of this languishing passion which it endureth in this my dying bodie? Tell me Barbarian, what moued thée to render this sorrowfull recompence for the extreame loue I bare thée, now conuerted into all deadly hatred, and more then mortall malice? How durst thou deceiue a poore maiden thus trecherously, considering the great familiarity into which I so soone admitted thée at the first sight? Ha dissembler, that hast thus surprised me through the false apparence of thy faire and sugred words, saying thou wert a king, a prince, a great siegnior, I thinke it wel, but of théeues and murderers, who camst hether but to pillage the treasure in this place. O foolish & more then miserable girle, to credit so lightly thy cogging and deceitfull persuasion: whose issue is but too tragicall and full of calamity. Surely if all those who knew me e­uer haue reputed me a sage and an obedient daughter, now they shall from henceforth account me for the most disloiall and wickeddest maiden that liues, hauing thus wrought the death of mine owne father. And although it be against my will, shall I for that cease to exclaim of the inconstancie of fortune, which by the only report of, I know not what cloked and friuolous ostentation, hath so easily chaunged my heart: What will you my lord the great Turke say, when you shall vnderstand the tidings of this massaker, which hath ben so cautelously wrought to steale hence your treasor? Alas why doe I not call to mind the aduersitie and dommages that your brother re­ceiued by the Emperor of Constantinople, when hée tra­uelled the world as a knight errant, I should féele no more the perplexitie which this too suddaine confidence that I reposed in this stranger driues me into: but what! The fatall iudgement which yéelded me so soone subiect to him would not fauorise me therein.

Marcomyr hauing no regard to her reuiling spéeches, [Page 200] praie [...] her in humble manner to quiet her spirits, and pro­mised her againe (if she would condiscend to go with him) to a [...]ance her to so high estate, that the world should sée the crowne of a Quéene vpon her head: assuring her hée would take away nothing out of the castle but the king of Thessalie, whose deliuerance encouraged him only to ex­ecute this bloodie discomfiture, which willingly he would haue forborne, if he had vnderstood her father would haue yéelded him without contradiction.

Leifida hearing this purpose, Alas Mahound, quoth she wéeping most pittifully, how doe you permit these Chri­stians to make so many incursions and pillages vpon the very countries and persons of your Turkes? Why haue you created and lodged women so néere men, séeing that for them they passe thorow innumerable torments? The brother of the Gran-siegneur died cruelly for a Damsels sake, and by my means his Castilion of Albase hath been murderously slaine and traiterously dishonored, the king of Thessalie being forcibly taken out of his prisons: [...]o that I had rather die a thousand deaths, then liue any lon­ger in this world to haue still the bitter remembrance of this afliction troubling my spirits. When she had made an end of her spéech, she like a mad woman ran as hard as she could driue to graspe the knight in her armes thin­king to haue taken away his sword to kill her self there­with, and him also if she had could: but Marcomyr would not strike her, thinking to make her leaue her hold, and died many faire spéeches and entreatings to her, which did no whit assuage her choller: which made her so furi­ously rage against him and her mother also, who set on also to succour her, that he could in no wise be rid of thē. He knew not well what to doe (for he would not hurt them) when his squier who saw such gentlenes might be preiudiciall to him: not shewing himselfe so courteous to­wards them as his maister, pulled with all his might the mother off him, then with the poleax that he wr [...]ed [...]ut [Page 201] of her husbands hand, he cut her head frō off her shoulders: which was such a griefe to Leifida that she fell in a dead swound, and being surprised with such a shaking fear, that she died without euer speaking a word afterward to any bodie. With this piteous accident was the poore page striken into such a griefe, that he purposed not to liue long after: but would write some memorie vpon the wall, wherevpon were afterward composed these verses which follow:

The page hauing fixed this sorrowfull sonnet on the wall, ran quickly to take vp the sword of one of the dead knights, the point wherof he set right against his breast, and so thrust himselfe to the very heart.

This was the tragicomicall act that Marcomyr began to play at Prissa & continued at Albase, where the Casti­lion and his gards of the castle, finished miserablie their liues. Hauing then dispatcht them all, they made search in all corners of the castle to find out the prison wherein the king was enclosed: at the last they found him locked vp fast within a tower, whose windowes were all yron bar­red, so leane and poore that he made them almost agast to behold him. Marcomyr who séeing him in this pittifull ta­king, remembring how he was father to his deare ladie Celestina, could not chuse but wéepe for compassion. Ne­uerthelesse the king did not perceiue at all of this huma­nitie, but wonderfully astonished to sée them with their [Page 203] swords readie drawn, thought they came to make an end of his languishing and miserable life. Therefore most willingly preparing himselfe to the sacrifice, he cried out alowd: Redéemer of humane nature, I commend vnto thée the poore soule which must presently passe out of his vile prison, vouchsafe then pittiful father to accept the tra­uels and miseries that I haue so long time patiently suf­fered for pennance of my sins: and séeing he hath knowne my bodie vnworthie of his protection in this world, bée to him a mediatour for my soule in his celestiall kingdome, to the end his Iudgement may not banish it, from the place of eternall felicitie, which he hath promised to the blessed.

Marcomyr being stricken dumbe at this lamentable spéech, Ozalias began to speake thus vnto the king: let not your maiestie feare that we are come to wrong you, but to deliuer you out of this sufferance, and to bring you to Constantinople, where you shall find your Quéene with Celestina your onely daughter (by whose meane you are presently set at libertie) who attendeth there for you in all deuotion. He procéeded to tell him how there was no bo­die aliue in that castle whom they should feare more then a feather, which the king did hardly beléeue: but being as­sured by them of the certaintie, they opening a little yron dore, put him forth of the irkesome chamber which he had kept twentie years together, without euer going out of it, so vindificatiue was the deadly grudge of the great Turke against him. Yet he did not firmely beléeue his de­liuerance, vntill he saw the Castilion and all his guard lie as dead as dogs in the court, then falling on his knées (lif­ting his eies vp to heauen, & spreading abroad his hands in sign of more sincere deuotion▪) he began to thanke God who had after so long time remembred him: beséeching him not to take regard to his offences, for that the least which he had committed against his diuine law since hée had reason, did deserue a perpetuall and a more au [...]ere [Page 204] captiuitie then that. After he had made this goodly spéech, he rose vp and came chéerefully to embrace the knights, whom he thanked with great honor for restoring him to his pristinate libertie, praising them much for so singular and notable an enterprise: wherevnto Marcomyr answe­red, it was not best to stand further to talk there, but to be gone from the place with all spéed▪ Which they did as soon as one of Marcomyrs squiers had brought one of the best steeds in the Quirry to mount the king, who felt his strength but féeble, so had his master commanded: who re­membring the words wherewith the Damsell Leifida re­proched him, would not permit any thing else to be taken out of the castle.

CHAP. XXVIII. How Marcomyr being departed with the king of Thessalie from the castle of Albase, found the great Turks daugh­ter by the way, whom he tooke away with him by vertue of his sword, and carried her with him to Constantinople.

AFter Marcomyr had bethought himselfe well of his returne to Constantinople, in the late of the euening, leauing the gates open, & the drawbridges downe, they mounted on horsebacke: and ri­ding a good pace, they came about mid­night néere vnto the mannour of Leifidaes nurse mother: there they saw many torches lighted amongst a tuft of trées, and a very costly bed in the middest of them, which cas [...] forth a most radiant splendor: all the companie past by it, except the gentle knight Marcomyr, who desirous to know what it was, gaue his horse into the hand of one of his squiers, who remained behind with him, & went strait to the place with his sword in his hand which had the han­dell of adamant s [...]ne: So casting them therby into a pro­found [Page 205] sléepe round obout him, he came néere to a rich couch wherein he saw a yong and very beautifull Damsell ly­ing. She was called Marencida, eldest daughter to the great Turke, and wife to king Ocurites, the very same whom Marcomyr found rouing in the Gulfe of the Tane and Fennes of Meotis, thether she went to take some re­creation with her mother, the Turks wife, who was not farre from thence, for some daies before she was retired from the court, taking snuffe at her husband because he lo­ued another better then her, whom he espoused after her nuptials.

Marcomyr then came as softly as he could to her bed side, where he lifted vp softly the couering, & because the vertue of his adamant did draw humane flesh to it, the Damsell came close vnto him, who tooke her faire in his armes, staying her face against his: something she felt, yet perceiued nothing what he did vnto her, and turning to and fro in his armes, she embraced him, casting hir selfe more vpon her right side, because he caried in that hand the sword, whose handell did draw her close vnto him, and the blade prouoked her to sléepe: in so much that shée was forced to remaine betwéene his armes as did faire Daphne betwéene those of Phoebus, when Iupiter turned her into a bay trée.

So did Marcomyr beare h [...]r vnto the place where Ori­can attended him with his stéed, mounting in the same sort, and riding amaine gallop, he soone ouert [...]lke his com­panie, who maruelled how in so little while he had gotten such a bootie: which he laid behind his squier, whilest hée put vp his sword into his sheath: she was not so soon from him but she awaked before she was aware, and séeing her selfe in the hands of them she knew not, in a great [...]eare she cried out: Out alas, quoth she, where am I: O wret­ched creature, I sée none of my owne people about me, nor know I whether I am thus str [...]ied so far. Who are you which haue ben so rash as to [...]eale me away thus out [Page 206] of my bed? Truly your ouerbold indiscretion hath pur­chased you nothing els but the most cruel and inhumaine death that may be deuised for you.

Madame replied the prince, we will saue vs from that as well as we may, and as for me I am a prince of a strange countrie, who hearing the lamentation you made for the captiuitie of the king your husband (to sée whom, as you said, you desired to goe to Constantinople) I had pittie of your affection. Moreouer being carefull to please you therein, and in all other things whatsoeuer it shall please you to command me, I did imediately take you out of your bed: Promising you by the faith that I ow to God and to knighthood, not only to shew you the king Ocurites, but also to gard your chastety vnde [...]led, and your honor as safe as I receiue it now into my hands.

Thou false and disloial knight, quoth she againe, how is it possible I should not hereby incurre great shame and dishonour, séeing thou hast alreadie outraged me, taking me away against my will from the middest of my guard: for if I desired to goe to the king my husband, it was on­ly to content the heart which prouoketh incessantly the spirit of my vehement affection, not that I would make my words true, considering I cannot in that respect goe one step without the congy of my father: but I had rather end my sorrow [...]ull life in this place, then goe with thée whom I know not, from whom I can expect no goodnes, hauing thus théeuishly set vpon me. I am neither robber nor theefe answered Marcomyr, but a knight who will o­bey you faithfully, if I sée you take my seruice in good part: further séeing I haue you now in my power, re­solue to goe with mée with a good will, or by force: assu­ring you I will take kéepe of you that you shall not die as you say.

Then Marencida began to pull off her headgeare, to feare her hair [...] ▪ wring her hands, an [...]rie as one out of her wits: but the prince caring little for such feminine [Page 207] importunities, wrapt his squiers cloake about her, then commaunding him to ride on, drew foorth his swoord, so that the Damsell was cast into a sléepe againe, euen as if she had swounded or falne into a trance. And for that O­zalias discoursed vnto the king of Thessalie the whole for­tune of his daughter Celestina (which he willingly heard, because that since his imprisonment he ne [...]er vnderstood any newes of the affairs of his kingdome, and knew not he had issue of her) he went with the teares in his eyes to imbrace Marcomyr curteously, saieng: Truly sonne, all the miseries and irksome torments which I haue hither­to not without great paine indured, séeme nothing to mée in respect of the extreame ioy and gladnesse that I receiue now, hauing found for my sonne in law a man of so tender loue and affection: being moreouer a very glad man of the prise of this ladie, for I hope by this meane to be re­uenged on the Turke. In this cōference they rod so long that on the point of day, they were on the top of a moun­taine, at the foot whereof came the sea washing in, where the knight putting vp againe his swoord into his sheath, Marencida awaked once more, still in her lamentable tune, nothing could comfort her, no not the promise of shewing her husband to her: and because she had nothing vpon her but her bare smock, which was of so fine linnen that all might well behold as well the excellent beautie wherewith nature had enriched the lineaments of her bodie, as the feature of her countenance in the most per­fectest graces accomplished.

This proper péece made such an impression into Oza­lias brest more then all others, that frō that time forward he loued her most ardently. Being then ariued at the ha­uen and imbar [...]ued, Marcomyr put vpon her one of his nightgowns, yet for all that fauour she neuer ceassed to sigh and lament still, no more nor lesse then Ariadne did at the comming of Bacchus, when she was by Thetis aban­doned at the seashore: but renewing more strongly her [Page 208] imprecations she did make many petitions to the gods of the salt waters, to Neptune and The [...]is, and to the Tri­tons their heraults, to all Seamonsters, Waternymphs, and Mermaids, that Marcomyr and all his crue might be [...]allowed vp in the waues, and her s [...]lfe to be viand and meat for fishes▪ Whereat Ozalia [...] hauing some pittie, bo­wed him vpon his knee very low before Marcomyr, and [...] a request in this manner: My deare cousin, of your [...]au [...]r I must intreat you to accord me one boone, whi [...]h is presently to giue me this womā in mariage, for whom I know the des [...]ini [...]s haue reserued me, considering the sodaine change that my passionat heart indureth, wherin the obiect of so many perfect ladies could neuer any whit heat the cold yee, which this in a moment hath resolued into warme and almost a boiling water.

Most willingly shall you obtaine your request of mée, answered Marcomyr, were it for a farre greater matter then you require at my hands, and assure you I shal shew my selfe alwaies so zealous a furtherer of your honour and aduancement, as of that of mine owne person, hoping neuer whilst I liue to sée any diuorce betwéene vs two to make a difference of our estates.

Ozalias thanking his cousin, would faine haue kist his hand, yet Marcomyr would not suffer him, but imbraced him louingly for the cordiall amitie reciprocall betweene them. In fine, this new [...]ouer resolued to employ himselfe in all things decent for the seruice of Marencida, omitting nothing which might by any means be pleasurable to her. But for al he could do, she would neither sée him nor hear him, the rigour of her stonie and adamantine heart could in no wise be mollified through any continuall disquiet and anguish of mind.

To returne to the gards and companie of Marencida, they awaked all at the first and second time that Marco­myr put vp his enchanted sword into his sheath, and the third time was al the very hower, when he ca [...]e to the [Page 209] sea side, where being to apparell the Damsell and to giue order for his spéedie embarking, he put it vp for all toge­ther: so that they then awaking thorowly, and séeing not their ladie in her bed, you may imagine in what perplexi­tie they were. Some ran like mad men among the trées, thinking she had hidden her selfe vnder the thick bowes: and finding her in no part, they began to pull off their beards, teare their haire, strike themselues on the breasts as hard as they might with their fistes, calling oftentimes for death which was their last refuge: know­ing there was no way of escape for them, if the Turke were once aduertised of this misaduenture: to be briefe in this pittifull spectacle was there séen nothing but tragical actions.

Thus did these poore desolate men remaine and could not tell what were best for them to doe: for none of them durst carrie these sorrowfull newes to the Turke: till at the last some going one way and some another, all scatte­red themselues and neuer would returne vnto the court afterward, leauing behind them, the heauie and woefull damsels of Marencida bewailing the losse of their Ladie and mistresse in that infortunate place. Where we will leaue them to returne to Marcomyr, who is now ready to hoise sailes to goe for Constantinople.

CHAP. XXIX. How Marcomyr arriueth with his companie in Constantino­ple, where he was honourably receiued by the Emperour, who went to the harbour to meet him: the speech hee had with the queen Marencida after they were arriued at the pallace, and of the great ioy of the queen of Th [...]s [...]aly and of Celestina her daughter, at the arriual of Marcomyr and the king of Thessalie.

[Page 210] MArcomyrs ship being vnder saile, there blew such a prosperous gale in her poupe, that she snigled quickly into the main sea, where he sailed the most ioifull man in the world, calling to mind the happie fortune which followed him in deliuering out of prison the king of Thessalie: who for his part was no lesse ioifull, all things represented before his eies, séeming to bée but dreames and false visions, through the remembrance hée had yet of the sorrow which he suffered in his so long cap­tiuitie. Yet could he well iudge of the inestimable valour of Marcomyr, and therfore he reputed himself blest aboue his fortune to obtaine such a knight to be his son in law: so that after dinner walking both together vpon the hat­ches, he praied him in all courtesie to tell him the name of his familie: but he with gra [...]ious and honest excuse con­strained him to dwell in his desire, vntill they were arri­ued before the Emperour. So that this humanity & ma­ny other courtesies which Marencida saw him continual­ly vse, did giue her much consolation in this her heauines, déeming thereby she was not fallen into the hands of so barbarous people as she supposed: (Cupid also began to lure her a little) shewed afterward some signe of amitie to Ozalias, who would neuer be farre from her, to make her know the good deuotion he had to her seruice.

They had faire weather and a calme sea, so long toge­ther, [...]il [...] they came to surge without any let within Bos­phorus of Thrace, whence Marcomyr soone dispatcht his cousin toward the Emperour, most humbly to entreat him that he would receiue the king of Thessalie who c [...]me in his companie, with the honour he knew did ap­pertaine to so great a siegnior: aduising him moreouer he should request C [...]lestina to send him her palfrey, to conduct a great ladie to the court, which he brought away from [Page 211] Turkie with him. Ozalias armed himselfe incontinent at al points except his helmet, and lanching a skiffe into the sea, went accompanied with two squiers strait to the ha­uen: where going ashore, he tooke his way toward the pallace: and there knéeling before the Emperor, deman­ded to kisse his hand, which the emperor would not suffer him to do before he had heard his message.

He had good hope to vnderstand some good news of him, because the enchaunted bird had that day presaged many signes of gladnes: Therefore demanded what tidings he brought. Sir, quoth the knight, I am the affectionate ser­uant of Marcomyr, him whose renowne alreadie hath so much resounded into your ears, who next after you (the péereles paragon of chiualrie) is estéemed to be the best by triall and touch: he sendeth me in al humblenes to beséech you that you will entertaine the king of Thessaly, whom he bringeth backfrō Turkie, with such honor as his worth requireth: assuring you they cannot be far from the hauen by this time, for they were entering the mouth thereof, when the pilots began to strike their sails and to cast their ankers as fast as they could.

What good tidings is this I heare, quoth the Empe­ror? and so rose vp from his chaire of state: In truth I could not wish that thing which might more content and satisfie my mind then this. Rise vp, knight my friend, that I may embrace thée in recompence of the great ioy thou bringest me now. As he had spoken those words, he tur­ned himselfe towards his Barons with a laughing and gratious countenance, going on in his spéech thus: Come my lords let [...]s all goe to receiue this courteous Thessali­an prince, and the knight whom I haue so long desired to sée, remitting the discourse of his deliueraunce, to some o­ther time of better leasure. If it please your maiestie. qd. he, this hath beene one of the most admirable aduentures you euer heard talke of, and fortune hath ben so prospe­rous and fauorable to him, that he hath not only deliuered [Page 212] the king of Thessalie, but he bringeth with him moreo­uer a very fair ladie which is daughter to the great Turk. Of this was the Emperor more astonished, when he praied Ozalias to tell him by what meane he had conque­red the damsell: which when the knight had very quick­ly recounted him, he went to put on his robes, comman­ding Diocles and all the other Nobles of his court to doe the like. At the last Ozalias withdrew himselfe a little to­wards his cousins louer, to tell her the newes which shée longed so faine to heare of a certaintie: but she who had ben aduertised of all thinges before by one of her pages, came hand in hand with her mother towards him, being both lifted into so suddaine ioy, that they therewith sée­med both rauished of their senses. The Quéene embraced him not without apparant token of great amitie, deman­ding him if Marcomyr were néere at hand, and whether he brought in his company the king her husband: where­to he answered, they might wel be both in the hauen, and it will not be long before they arriue in the pallace, for they are here expected.

By the helpe of God I shall goe méet them, quoth the Quéen, for I cannot remain so long idle vntil they come: saying thus she tooke her way with Celestina and all her damsels, as quickly as they could set forward, so that Mar­comyr (who was in the forecastle of the ship with the king beholding the godly cittie) knew them as farre off as he could diserue them. For the ardent desire wherewith hée loued Celestina, did administer probable coniectures to his iudgement therefore he said thus to the king, my lord be­hold without doubt the Quéene and your daughter, who as far as I can sée now, could not tarie for our comming. I request you let vs goe on shore to entertaine them, and let vs not make the time long, which they thought to a­bridge, taking the paine to come so far to méet vs. So presently they went both on land, for the great desire they had both to be néere her, whose remembrance could [Page 213] neuer out of their minds, by no distance of place which might depriue them of their presence.

So that the Quéene who scantly knew the king her husband (so much did his long grisely haire, and his beard grown out of fashion mishape him) méeting him at aduen­ture, thus bespake him: fair lord are you that king of Thes­salie for whom this wofull heart of mine hath endured so much sorrow? I beséech you tell me quickly and hold not her long in suspence, who now knoweth you not, being so much changed as you are. Madame answered the king, I maruell not if you misknow me now, considering the lapse of time that your eies haue discontinued their office vpon me, the which surely the integrity of loue hath made it séeme far longer to vs both, albeit the accustomable re­uolution of yeares doth neuer augment nor diminish his natural course one onely minut: notwithstanding I am the same king your husband who haue felt more passions [...]or your absence, then for the anguish or torment which his miserable captiuity could yéeld him. But séeing the immortall God doth me this fauor to sée you yet once a­gaine, before this passible bodie abandon my soule (the most affectionat desire that it had during my tribulation) let mortal Atropos come now when she pleaseth: Assuring you I shall not féele the stinging prick of his dart if she fa­uorise me neuer so little betwéene your arm [...]s. When this spéech was done, they embraced one another by the middles, remaining a good while in one anothers arms so fast, that none might behold them without sheading some tears of compassion: in the mean while Celestina enter­tained Marcomyr with so many amourous cherishings, that the ease and content she receiued in her hart did make the superficies of her chéekes, and all the rest of her visible parts very good witnesses thereof. So that this mutuall and reciprocal blisse of their spirits, [...]ming in the cur­rent of ioy did kéepe [...] [...]rom their duty, which passion séeming too b [...]tter to the [...], she would fetch [Page 214] them out of that trance, when she tooke the knight by the one hand and Celestina in the other, saying to the king her husband thus: my lord, sée here a daughter which you be­gat at your departure out of Th [...]salie, who may thinke her selfe happie aboue all other liuing inthis world, séeing by the meane of her destinie you are gotten out of prison, I reduced to my former ioy, and she accompanied with the best accomplished knight that beareth arms.

Great was the gladnesse of the king, seeing a damsell so beautiful and well nurtured being his daughter, whom he held long time in his arms before he could let her go, taking both of them such pleasure in this recognisance, and naturall homage of father and daughter, that with simple reiou [...]ssaunce their hearts had almost both fayled. And so fell it out also betwéene Marcomyr and the quéene, who could neuer sufficiently thanke him, and commend his vnspeakeable prowesse and magnanimitie.

In the meane time the Emperour had commaunded two hacknies and a palfrie richly harnessed to be brought to the hauen, and would by all means go thither himselfe with all his barons: by means whereof, [...]rriuing vppon the [...]ay, he alighted from his horse to doe the more honor to the king of Thessalie: and séeing him so poore and transfigured, could not chuse but let the tears run downe his eyes. Then went the king to bow himselfe before the Emperour, who imbraced him in most amiable manner, saying: My déere brother let vs praise our soueraigne Lord God, who hath deliuered you from out of the hands of our common enemie, wherein if I be now a most ioy­ful man for your recouerie, I receiued no lesse displeasure and grée [...]e for your imprisonment, being my selfe as you know, in the Turks power at that time, albeit he graun­ted me far greater libertie then you, which he did only to and himselfe with my right hand: the desire whereof to e­scape his seruitude, constrained me to commit against you a most signallerrour, and such as I know is most truely [Page 215] reprehensible: but the merciful God who pardoneth frée­ly the offences of the repentant, hath in his pittie looked vpon vs, and by his infinit bountie hath brought all vnto a happy end.

Sir, quoth the king, I haue alreadie vnderstood all this whole discourse from Marcomyr, whereof I can giue you no blame, séeing you could not doe withall: notwithstan­ding let vs omit these occasions past, now it hath pleased the soueraigne and iust iudge to shew an apparent mi­racle by my deliuerance, to the end that I should come my selfe in person to present you the extreame affection I haue to obey you in all things to me possible. Be certaine brother, then replied the Emperour, that the most melo­dious harmonie which [...]he celestiall organs can turne to reioice me, did neuer make my spirits more glad, then doth now your comming with the knight who hath bene your deliuerance, to whome I am content to forgiue the sorrow (these words he spake smilingly) hee hath caused me, frustrating mine eies vntill now, of the fruition of his presence.

Marcomyr who demeaned himselfe very modest and humble before him, setting one knée on the ground began sagely on this manner: Redoubted prince, if I haue some­times prouoked your Maiesties displeasure, I confesse I haue inc [...]rred such punition as it shall please you to lay vpon me, and I will most willingly indure, to fashion my selfe the better vnto your seruice, wherein I desire to im­ploy my selfe indistinctly, according to your thoughts, yea when it were to go knocke furiously against the gate of death: whereof I suppose shall giue you a good testimony the commaund you shall giue me when it shall best séeme good vnto your Maiestie hoping to execute it in such sort, as you shall well know with what affection he speaketh, who findeth himselfe greatly bounden vnto you. And to the end you know the name of one of your most volunta­rie slaues, I am Marcomyr, destinate to serue you before [Page 216] my natiuitie▪ who pray you in all humilitie, to pardon and banish out of your memorie, that wherein by the disgrace of Fortune, I may haue offended you: for I neuer did it for any other respect▪ bu [...] because I wanted the hardinesse to appeare vnwoorthily before your Maiestie, so that I shall neuer rise from this place again, before it please you to giue me your hand to kisse, in signe of your frée and li­berall graunt of pardon.

The Emperour seeing him so faire and gratious spea­king what he would, maruelled most of all how nature had lodged in one only body so many graces and perfecti­ons: Wherefore casting his armes about his necke: you doe me quoth he, so much honour offering me for seruice your vnspeakeable Prowesse and valor, that I should o­uermuch forget my self if I did not pardon you (séeing par­don of me you desire) albeit by you I am nothing at all en­dommaged [...]: and I d [...]e not only impart this fauour vnto you, but f [...]rther I accept and retaine you as min [...] owne proper son. At the end of these words, Marco­myr kissed his hand by force, then embraced Diocles, who gaue him like honourable entertainement: & next came Abenu [...] towards him almost transported with ioy, say­ing: Truly braue knight, as glad am I of your comming into this cou [...], as great is [...]he obligation whereby I shal find [...] all my life beholding vnto you: for a begin­ning of the satisfaction whereof, I could not at this time shew better euidence then to render praise to the director of all things, to fill you with the happines that this com­pany wisheth you, hauing desired so much your presence in [...]en sight without longer concealing of your selfe. Marcomy [...] [...]ecognished him incontinent, and so shewed him againe many tokens of amitie and good will then ap­proching A [...]edes and all the other knights and [...]arons, he saluted them most courteously: and if they were aba­shed at his prowesse & magnanimitie the day of the i [...] ­s [...]ing, farre more were they now astonished at his goodly [Page 217] appearance, and liuely beautie, after he had disarmed him­selfe as you shall heare by and by.

In the mean time Ozalias went to [...]etch his Marenci­da from the ship: who much maruelled to behold so braue and magnificent a crue of nobles, when she demaunded in what countrie they were landed. Madame qd. the Prince, this cittie is called Constantinople, and among that [...]ou­rishing troupe of knights who attend for vs at the shore, you shall anone know the Emperour Cleodomyr, who hath vouchsafed to come so farre to receiue the king of Thessalie, and the knight who hath deliuered him out of prison: and you your selfe shall iudge him so prudent and vertuous a prince by the honour, gratious entertainment and good welcome he will giue you (if once he know who you are) that you shall not repent this your voiage, were it but for hauing knowledge of him only. Ah wretched creature that I am quoth she then, how accursed and disa­stred am I to fall now into the handes of so capitall an e­nemie of my father? And continnuing her inuectiue with many sighes and sobs, Ozalias did all he might to comfort her by all way of humanitie, replying to her thus, Be not grieued for any thing Madame, but bee of good cheare, hoping your affairs shall prosper better then you thinke. And what can there befortune me, quoth she incontinent, which doth not agrauate my matyrdome? If I sée Ocuri­tes my deare husband, it shall bee but with insupportable heart sorrow, that we shall both féele, finding our selues both captiues to the worst aduersarie we haue. Forget the king Ocurites I beseech you then said the knight, sée­ing in his stéed is found a se [...]gnior, who louing you with­out comparison more then he euer did, desireth nothing els but to aduance you to the height and sumptuositie of the brauese estates: to the end that séeing your selfe obei­ed, nay reuerenced of no small number of subiects, who are alreadie yours, you may thinke thereby how you may liue content all the rest of your life. And therefore faire [Page 218] ladie ouerwearie not from henceforth your spirit, reie­cting from your imagination those thinges which bring with them no ioy, especially now that in humble sort I request you to entertaine with comely and ioiful counte­nance the Emperour Cleodomyr, of whose roiall vertue I assure my selfe so much in this place that he will shew you great honor for my sake.

The God Mahound refuse me then replied she, if I e­uer speake vnto him by my good will, nor vnto any of his court, for I féele my spirits too weake in their powers to carrie my life far from this place: which I may estéeme the best content that might come to me, it being to me so woefull a thing to liue in this seruile miserie, that I re­pute my selfe worse then a senceles creature, and without reason altogether▪ Ozalias who heard her vtter these spée­ches with such a countenance and affection, which séemed not counter [...]eit, had some compassion on her, when taking her by the arme, he brought her to shore more by force then by her frée will, where the Emperour and the other nobles receiued her very gratiously, but she would neuer bow before him, nor make answer to any thing they said vnto her, whereat the troupe both of the Barons and of the people also who looked vpon her, were much astonied, so that calling her a woman of a manly and robust cou­rage, they said nature had failed in making of her a wo­man. Then being mounted all on horsebacke, they tooke their way all in most roiall aray towards the pallace, whence the Empresse descended into the base court to re­ceiue the king of Thessalie and the knight Marcomyr his deliuerer: who after the welcommings and embracings of the king, kissed honourablie her hand, and likewise Phi­locristaes, whom he besought in most humble sort to ac­cept Marencida for her companion, and to giue her some priuiledge to be néere her, being she was a lady extracted of an illustrious and roiall blood.

Seignior Marcomyr answered the infant, I most wil­lingly [Page 219] graunt you your request: for the loue of you both, and can estéeme my selfe very happie to haue so noble and precious a gage neere me, of you the most perfect among the best accomplished knights: so that assure your self she shall not haue in my company any worse vsage then mine owne proper person. And you madam, qd. she to the Tur­kish princesse, estéeme that you come to be now neere her who will honor and loue you as her self.

Marencida hearing these gratious words of Philocri­sta ▪ and the sequestration whereby Marcomyr did consign her vp to this ladie, thought she must néeds be the Empe­rors daughter, by means whereof making a low courte­sie, she shewed her a more ioifull face, then she had as yet done to any bodie, whereof Philocrista was glad, and did interprete it to her aduantage, taking her straitewaies by the hand: and afterward when euery body was gone vp into the great chamber, lead her to sit downe hard by Celestina, to whom she said thus, smiling: Madam I take this Damsell in your place, now the knight Marcomyr is come, for I know that hereafter our company shal discon­tinue, more then it hath done, because reason and your fa­tall loues will you to prefer him before me, albeit I can­not thinke therefore you will forget me.

Madame replied Celestina, we are both yours, & in him haue you so good part, as you shall find your selfe no lesse abashed then content when you know him, who shall put you out of all feare that I should euer forget our recipro­call amitie, albeit the singular deuotion which I haue to remain perpetually your humble cousin and better friend may aduertise you sufficiently of my constancy.

I thanke you in all kind affection for your offer, quoth Philocrista, for the acception whereof, I can well assure you, there is no Damsell in Europe more yours then I am: whereof shall giue you certaine knowledge, the first thing wherein you shal assay my more then little power, in regard of the good will I haue to doe you any pleasure▪ [Page 220] and as touching this point wherein you say I shall make vndoubtfull proofe of the conseruation of our mutuall ami­ty, you may thinke I shall be most glad to vnderstand it presently.

Therein shall you sée your desire soone satisfied replied Celestina, for thinges cannot now be any longer dissem­bled, whose happie successe shall testifie their good and lau­dable beginning: During these gratious enterparlies of these ladies, sent the Emperor to disarme Marcomyr and Ozalias into a place whether Diocles and Abenunq would néeds conuoy them: and in the meane time the king of Thessalie made to them the whole discourse of his mira­culous deliuerance.

But the princesse Marencida who cast her eies al about in euery corner, calling to mind the riches and high e­states of her father, did not make any great account of the emperours court, which was then vnfurnished of knights for that this suddain arriual was not expected nor known of but one houre before. By meanes whereof Marencida easily supposed his magnificence and statelines not to bée such as it was deemed, as oftentimes it commeth to passe to those that are caried away with any particular affecti­on in the iudgement of things, the which they alwaies in­terprete against the sounder opinion. So this damsell ha­uing her spirit most occupied and [...]loid with the remem­brance of her misfortune, censured the reputation & wealth of the Emperor, such as you may infer by the spéech which she began, fetching a déepe sigh from the center of her bo­die in this sort. You know Emperor of Constantinople how the pompe and sumptuositie of my fathers house ex­céedeth the richest princes of the world, and what a num­ber of puissant kings yéeld him hommage and fealtie, for you haue haunted his court long inough to know so much. Where if you were so hardie and aduenturous as to s [...]ay without dread of them (as all the world knoweth) the great Turke my deceased ouncle, doe but thinke I pray [Page 221] you what must be the perplexitie and heartssorrow of his miserable Damsell iniuriously taken away from his coun­tries, and afterwards by stealth brought into your domi­nion. Wherein me thinketh to veryfie the renowne that is daily spread abroad of you, you ought to take pittie at mine aduersitie, and rather to lament and be sorrie for it, then to glory and mocke as I sée you doe: considering in­constant fortune is so fickle and variable that she turneth her smiling and fauourable countenance at euery winke of an eie.

This I say not to induce you to gratifie or honour mée the more in your court, because death were far more ac­ceptable to me then any life, such as I alreadie endure: wherefore I require you againe (if request I must néeds make to such an aduersarie) to aduise hereafter to con­serue your reputation so, that I purchase no blame which may offend mine honour, and you shall doe much as well for my sorrowfull consolation, as for the increase of your owne praise. When she had vttered these spéeches, the princesse began to complaine in such strange maner, that the emperour himselfe did pittie her, and could not chuse but answer her thus: I vnderstand very well what you say, and I know better that feminine choller which now enrageth your spirit, making you transgresse the limits of good manners and modestie: not being ignoraunt how the puissance of princes is lesse then nothing, when God doth resist and stand against them: wherevpon we must make our full resolution, that we cannot doe any good act but according to his will, by the which I was carried as it pleased him into the Gransiegniors your vncles court, and I sweare and protest before him to whome all things are knowne (I will not otherwise be saued at the end of my daies) if I slue him, or euer thought to doe it, hauing then intoo too fresh memorie the honour which a little be­fore I receiued of him: this indéed, I depriued him of the damsell which he detained by force, to put her againe into [Page 222] his hands, to whome by right she appertained: wherein in mine opinion, I committed none offence, séeing he vn­iustly withheld her, profaning the sacred lawes of royall equitie. And for that the sage and wise alwaies take in good part as well aduerse as prosperous fortune, I assure my selfe madame, you shall haue no more cause to be sorie hereafter, when you shall vnderstand you were conque­red by the most courteous and braue knight who liues at this day vnder the stars, Marcomyr by name, the very same who vanquished in Hellespont king Ocurites your husband. O thrise accursed that I am (exclaimed the dam­sell then) whose rauisher, who hath shut me in here by the means of an inexorable gut of sea, caused the imprisonmēt of the king my déere husband: Now should I assuredly hasten on the last hower of my life, séeing that hauing him in my countrie, where by a cruell and shamefull death I might haue bene reuenged of him easily, I knew not hée was the rouer and pyrat who betraied my husband. O Fortune how dooest thou in all things shew thy selfe too much mine enemie, bringing me into such perplexity that I cannot giue my self the mortal attaint, to send my soule out of this gulfe of affliction, in which I féele my selfe so déepely plunged, that I sée no better remedie to get out, then to launch my selfe cruelly vpon the dart of the im­placable A tropos. Surely thou art so spightful against me that I can haue no hope by praiers to mooue thy mercie, but may say iustly, the heauen hath bene far better aspe­cted towards me then thou prosperous or fauourable: and so it is better I resolue to indure patiently my mishaps, séeing all things crosse me so, that I cannot in them find the least sparke of fauour.

The end of these words brought downe such aboun­dance of tears from Marencidaes eyes, and so great num­ber of sighs began to rise from her heauie heart, that shée remained a long while resembling nothing but some mad sencelesse creature, filling the aire with such lamentable [Page 223] cries and sobs, as no humaine eare hath heard the like. Therewith was Philocrista much mooued to pitie & com­passion, carieng her suddainly into her chamber, where she so laboured by all good counsails and consolations to quiet her, that she diminished part of her rage and mad­nesse. There will we leaue them togither in this paci [...]i­cation, to returne to the good knight Marcomyr, who dis­armeth himselfe in the meane time, to the end to appeare in presence before the Emperour, with such pompe as his roiall excellencie did require.

CHAP. XXX. The honest and gratious conference had betweene Marco­myr, the Emperour, the Empresse, and D [...]ocles: and how afterward he caused himself to be baptized, to be f [...]anced immediatly after to his faire ladie Celestina.

MArcomyr being disarmed, he put vp­on his backe a sumptuous and rich iacket, beset round about with pearles, and other rare pretious stones of great & inestimable valor: the which he caused to be made be­fore he departed out of the kingdom of Tarsus after the moderne and newest fashion, vsed then amongst the most magnificent kings of Asia, with intention to were it the first day hée came before the emperour: such a splendor did this roiall vestement giue to the naturall beautie of Marcomyr, that he drew all the beholders into admiration, and exactly to remarke the Phisiognomie and lineature of his counte­nance, one might haue easily iudged him to resemble much his father who engendred him: but they were out of this thought: so that Diocles taking him then by the hand, [Page 224] they went and sat downe both so by the Emperour, who hearing all the court to speake of nothing but of the ex­treame desire which they had to know of what race hée was discended, began to speake vnto him in this manner.

Marcomyr my deare friend, it behoueth you now no more to couer your selfe from me, hauing your famous & flourishing renowne pierced so the foure corners of this base and terrestriall region: tell me then I pray you of what parents are you issued and all the rest, wherevnto you may thinke our eares will be attentiue to hearken. Gratious lord quoth he, to you whom I hold for my liege s [...]egnior can I not cloake honestly any thing which you may desire to know of me, for I should thinke my selfe vn­worthie of your presence in dissembling vnto you the sin­ceritie of my heart: Know ye then I am son to the Quéen of Tarsus, the most affectionate handmaid and perpetual louer of your maiestie, who by a strange aduenture am come f [...]r from the confines of my kingdome, so soone as I knew who was my father: whereof I was alwaies ig­norant before. The occasion of my comming into your court was the renowne and high praises of Celestina, to whose seruice I firmely beléeue the fatall Destinies haue submitted me euer since my natiuitie, for the loue of no o­ther ladie liuing did euer get place in my spirit, which hath felt an intollerable passion in knowing it self vnwor­thie to purchase her grace, and lesse to gaine accesse and fauour in your court. There made he vnto him the whole discourse of the old beldame, who appeared to him sitting vpon the foot of a stone pillar, in the cloisters of his palace, and what she told him, blaming him for the idle and delici­ous life he led. Kéeping silent neuerthelesse how she certi­fied him to be his sonne, because he reserued that to ma­nifest it vnto him last of all other matters, if he did not sollicite him more instantly. He farther procéeded, how hauing till that day liued like an infidell, and after the Alcoran of Mahomet, he did purpose with a sincere deuo­tion [Page 225] to become a Christian, and to receiue the holy sacra­ment of baptisme. Wherevnto a certaine deuine instinct did prouoke him, which the most highest of all gods did put in his mind: and also not for to loose her whom hée lo­ued with so cordiall a zeal, that without her only he could not liue one halfe quarter of an hower: albeit in doing so, he lost the hope of euer returning againe into his king­dome of Tarsus.

When the Emperor vnderstood these things, he assu­red himselfe incontinent, Marcomyr must néeds be his son by the prompt and summarie suppu [...]ation he made of his age and of the time he was in the prou [...]nce of Pasmeric, where the Quéene his mother by a subtil deuise had iouys­sance of his loue: by meanes whereof he became shame­fast a little in beholding the Empresse, wherof the purple coulour which made his face blush shewed a cleare signe, for the vermilion tincture thereof went and came in such sort, that the Empresse and al [...]hose of the same side where her chaire of state was set, perceiued it well: but she only suspected what the matter might be, calling to mind the fine trickes the Quéene of Tarsus plaid her, as the Em­peror himselfe had sometime told her: albeit she as a la­die prudent and of great discretion made as though shée had known nothing: and the Emperor then remembring at the same instant the perfections of Marcomyr, accused himselfe of great simplicity to be ashamed of so perfect a péece of a worke: therefore calling to him againe his for­mer gladnes and spéech, bespake him thus: My dear friend Marcomyr, surely I loue and estéeme you much more then before, hearing you say you are son to that Quéene which hath honoured me so much in her countries: whose onely name▪ resounding in mine eares make me call to memo­rie the exploits I did there: so that I cannot expresse my ioy, especially séeing you resolued to renounce paganisme and the heathen sect of your gods, to reduce your selfe to­tally to our faith. And mine aduise herein is, that thinges [Page 226] be not prolonged too much, but that to morrow morning you receiue the holy charactor of Christiandome, and by the same meane vnder one to be celebrated also the solem­nitie of your affiancing with madame Celestina: for rea­son willeth in this case we hasten your attempt, séeing for h [...]r sake you haue endured so many trauels, and forsaken such a kingdome as yours is, the ertendue, riches, and fer­tilitie whereof is not a thing vnknowne to me. To vn­derstand Marcomyr was a king, were meruellous glad the king and Queene of Thessalie, and far more without comparison when they were certified of the first degrée of his genealogie: of which the Emperor would not yet make any further enquirie, vntill he had better coniecture of the truth: but well he knew how to alter his talke: and falling with a good decorum from one thing into another, they conferred ioifully together till supper time when the tables were spread thorow the court.

In meane time the Empresse and the Quéene with­ [...]rew themselues into their chambers, leauing the king and Marcomyr to [...]up with the emperor, where they were magnificently serued, not only with exquisit and rare di­shes, but had also of all sorts of musicall Instruments, which they vse at the repastes of great princes. The ta­bles being taken vp, the Emperor praid the king of Thes­salie to retire himselfe to the Quéen his deare wife, séeing the time did then require to be a little together without any beholders to stand by. Whervnto he willingly accor­ded, as well to gratifie him therein, as to quench the desire which might stirre him forward to reconquest the place, where no refusall was made at the entrance, and where the long distance of yeares wherein he endured such suffe­rance, did so much more augment his forces. Yet he did at his wifes request cut his haire and trim his beard, and for him were quickly made very rich habilimēts, to be on the morrow present at the betrothing of his daughter in such array and sumptuous attire as did beséem his roial estate.

[Page 227]At the length Marcomyr remained alone with the Em­per [...]r, who desired so affectionately to know if he were his sonne, that being not able to endure any longer this dis­quiet thought which troubled his spirit, he tooke him a lit­tle aside with instant praier to tell him the very troth Sir, quoth Marcomyr then, Surely I can no longer con­ceale it from you, séeing you so carefull to know, albeit I had rather hold my peace a great deale, knowing my selfe vnworthie of such generation, by reason of my too litle va­lor: notwithstanding to obey your request, know that you your selfe begat me in the cittie of Al [...]arin in the king­dome of Pasmerie, the same night you tooke very gratiou­sly your congie of the Quéene my mother. Who being du­ly aduertised of the perfections which Nature had bestow­ed vpon you aboue all others, was so ardently enamou­red of you, that being vnable to resist the impatient desire which made her more yours then her owne, she found meanes to acquaint her selfe with you by the vertue of a certaine potion mixed with many drugs, that a most ex­pert Magitian had composed for her: the working wher­of was so vehement, that your vitall spirits could not pre­uai [...]e so much, but they remained attainted, and oppressed with such an assured forgetfulnes, as she had craftely of you, that which by praiers she did despaire to obtain. And this act hath not so much displeased God, but he hath per­mitted to be procreated thereby a deuout creature of his, who euidently knoweth the Predestination, vnto which euer since his nauitie he submitted it. Which is my selfe your most humble son and obedient seruant: to whom it séemeth impossible this extream desire, should not giue you some presumption of the matter, when you shall haue cer­taine assurance, by the remembrance which may now re­fresh your memorie of that which happened betwéene you both. But she gaue me moreouer at my departure from Tarsus a gage, whereby you shall further sée more ap­parent tokens of the truth, commanding me to deliuer it [Page 228] vnto you by the which you may cal to mind the like wher­of she made you a present, when you were to depart from her countries: and Celestina now hath it in possession, if she haue not lost or put it away.

Of all this mysterie would she not tell me the least word, till the old beldame which put Celestina into my thoughts, had before giuen me to vnderstand. For shée dreaded (a thing which soone after came to passe) that I would abandon my kingdome to take my iorney towards you to serue in the suite of your court. The desire with which I found my selfe afterward inflamed for the same purpose, hath so without all cease night and day prouoked me forward, that neuer perill or any aduenturous danger might diuert my spirit from employing it in those things which might a little recommend me to you, till the time that this should come to your notice: wherein albeit I haue sh [...]ne lesse then no Prowesse and magnamitie, it must bée to you referred whence it is deriued, and to the desire I haue therein to be known for your son.

Eternall God, then brake the Emperor forth for ioy, how happie haue I reputed my selfe, recouering in so small time a son so perfect and accomplished? Surely far more then any humane tongue is able to expresse: for the vnspeakeable ioy wherewith I féele my heart ouercome, surpasseth the capacitie of the most eloquent and learned clarke who euer for this effect might put pen to paper. Ah, Marcomyr my dearely begotten son, vndoubtedly I be­léeue that which you tell me, considering you much resem­ble me by your complexion and many other gifts, where­with nature hath endued me, and chiefly your martiall and heroicall courage, whereof all those of my blood haue ben heretofore partakers, and albeit this laudable and pretious fruition which I presently enioy of you, redoun­deth a litle to the dishonor of mine Empresse, yet that doth a little pierce my heart, assuring me her prudencie and modestie will not permit her to taxe nor disdaine me very [Page 229] much. Now I perceiue how much I am bounden to loue the Quéene your mother, séeing she hath taken such pains for me, that of her so cunning deceit wrought on me by night, there procéedeth so goodly and rare fruit. At the end of these words, he stroked him with his hands on both his chéeks, and giuing him many swéet kisses with a more sin­gular affection then can any father shew to his child, hée prosecuted his spéech thus: My sonne I pray deuoutlie the creator of all the world to accept you hereafter for his true and faithfull seruant, to the end your Prowes and va­liancie may shine and augment in you euery day more & more, by the communication of our Christian faith, which you shal receiue in the fount of holy baptisme: and albeit in doing so you forsake your own kingdome, assure your selfe you shall find no lesse crowne herein, beside that which I shal giue you, during my life, & the future succession which you shal inherit after my death.

Marcomyr made humble obeissance down to the ground to thank him and to kisse his hand, which he did with such humilitie, that the teares distilled from the Emperors eies: brought downe thorow the great ioy wherewith his heart felt it selfe rauished: which being not able to abide so secretly shut in, forced him to goe take the Empresse in her chamber, whom at his first entrance he kissed in all most honest amitie, telling her this: I beléeue madam you haue heretofore held so good opinion of my firme l [...]ialty, & how cordially I haue al the time of my life loued you, that hereafter ye will not séeke any better or more sufficient proof: so that to speak this vnto you, induceth a little scruple which is not long since crept into my brain, fearing least you misdéem mine honest cariage whē you shal vnderstād y^e discourse. But not to suffer this fantasy to imprint it selfe further in your spirit, I protest before God the only sear­cher of mens harts, & I swear vnto you again by al y^e crea­tures which assist before his tribunal seat, that neuer to my knowledge & wil, I haue not de [...]iled our mariage bed: [Page 230] And lesse I haue infringed in word or déed the holy lawes of matrimonie, nor polluted the inuiolable faith which I haue promised you. But if I haue ben sometimes so vnfor­tunate, that some other woman beside your selfe had of me by charmes and deceit, that which to you only appertai­ned, you ought not now to be so seuere and rigorous, but to pardon me, séeing I confesse mine indiscreet offence and ouersight. Albeit the fault did not procéed from me, and that in that behalf I shal alwaies be sound innocent. Ma­dame, you may well remember what heretofore I told you befortuned me with the quéene of Tarsus in her coun­tries, wherein the dreame that you dreamed was not al­together false and vaine: for so much as by the acquain­tance she had of me by meane of her sorcerie and sophisti­cated beuerage which shée commaunded the yeoman of her seller to giue me, hath ben engendred Marcomyr the gentle knight.

My lord, answered the Empresse, with a smiling and very gracious countenance, so soon as euer I saw Marco­myr, I assured that to be true which you say, he resembleth you so néerely in all lineatures of his person: so that not only I haue pardoned you, being ignorant of bringing in­to this world one so excellent and perfect creature, but when wéetingly you had forgotten me in a thing whence procéedeth so rare and pretious trea [...]or: being long since assured of your integritie, that by your good will you will neuer worke me anger or displeasure. As for Marcomyr I accept him most willingly for my son, and I loue him alreadie with no lesse zeale then Diocles his brother, be­séeching you my lord, to send him hether to me speedi [...]ie: for I will receiue him for no lesse, and declaring mine af­fection to him, giue him the maternall kisse, and embra­cing which his good manners and commendable vertues do merit.

Glad was the Emperor without measure of this an­swer, and sending for Diocles and Abenunq thether (after [Page 231] they had heard the discourse of this good newes) sent them for Marcomyr to bring him before the Empresse: They went to fetch him with a maruellous gladnes, and as far off as Diocles saw him, he ran to him with open armes, saying in this manner. O the incomprehensible blisse that now bringeth me the neerenes of linage, which would extract vs two out of one and the selfsame originall sourse! O the inseperable brotherly amitie! What two persons might you combine and vnite to hold better to­gether with your affectionate hands then vs two? Sure­ly when you should wander ouer the bottome of this He­mispheare you should neuer [...]ind the like couple more en­clined to reuerence you, especially I, who therein féele my selfe aboue all other so much fauored by the diuine pro­uidence, that I hope my deare brother and friend, you shall neuer know in me any other will then your owne. Ah deare brother answered Marcomyr then, the felicitie which you say is the contentment of your spirit, constrai­neth me to striue therein against you in this only (that in any other thing I should crosse your desires God forbid) wherein it pleaseth you to tearme your selfe the most af­fectionate whom fraternall amitie may at this day find on earth: for when the extreame desire which I haue in this behalfe should be measured by the elle, or poised in an euen ballance, you should plainly sée it wey downe and surpasse yours by far, the which for all that I estéeme to be no lesse then you say. But for as much as mine hath ex­céeded the height of all measure, and that it is impossible to mount aboue it, I would faine giue you to know what did vrge me to assure you, you shall alwaies find my body a prompt seruant of your soules desire: wherof shall giue you loiall testimonie the first commaundement which I shall receiue from you, wherein I pretend to employ my selfe so well, that you shall discerne the little difference I put betwéene doing and saying. As then Diocles and A­benunq had enterlaced many courteous spéeches and gra­tulations, [Page 232] they came all thrée towards the Empresse, to whom as soone as they were arriued, Marcomyr fel on his knées to kisse her hand, which she would not haue had him done, but she lifted him vp quickly againe, and embracing him with her most gentle and gratious entertainement, she began thus: My sonne Marcomyr the vertues & gifts of the heauen whereof the soueraigne God hath knowne your bodie worthy of, séeme vnto me so well emploied in your person, that with great reason they incite me to loue you naturally, as I doe with all my heart willingly, and conceiue in my selfe a maruellous great ioy, that you are now come to shew the true office of a sonne: which is to recognish your father, & to present the humble obeissance which you owe vnto him, being thinges whereof your fa­ther and I feele our selues so well pleased and content, as of nothing els so much which might happen vnto vs at this day. Madame answered Marcomyr, it is of your accu­stomed bountie, that it pleaseth your highnes to account me in the number of your most humble and af [...]ianced seruants, albeit I doe not merit the least part of any such fauor. Neuerthelesse if a sincére deuotion and zeale of a loue more then of the son to the father (which I haue, ne­uer day of my life to transgresse your commaundements) might purchase me so much happines, to containe me al­waies in your grace, and in that of my lord my father, I should content my selfe as much with fortune, as the ri­chest prince of the earth, therein haue I set downe & hid­den the limit of my riches, thinking there can be no more pretious a treasure found for me. My deare child, then re­plied the Empresse, you are so forward, that you néed not vse any seruice therein towards vs for this matter, but henceforward you shall take such habitude and familiari­ty with vs as you shall séeme best, for I sée you are very worthie of that [...]auor, and so modest, you will in no wise abuse it. Much more honest and gratious conference had they together. In the mean while this newes was spread [Page 233] all ouer the pallace: by means whereof Philocrista went (as though she would flie) to embrace and receiue Marco­myr for her brother. The like did the king and Quéene of Thessalie, all running to him so filled with gladnes, that when they came to him they could hardly opē their mouth to speake to him. So great was the ease and pleasure of those who vnderstood this good newes, that all the night they could not sléepe nor take any rest, for that some made bonefires, others sounded trumpets, and many other in­struments for ioy and gladnes, in briefe he did not thinke himselfe the son of a good mother who did not welcome Marcomyr as the Emperors sonne: or who did not shew some signe of reioicing at that vnexpected parentage: but all this was nothing in respect of that which the Emperor did on the morrow morning, who sent one of the richest and most sumptuous presents to Marcomyr and Ozalias, that euery one might easily discerne common loue from that which is naturall: wherein Ozalias shewed himselfe not too much pleased, for no other cause but to sée Marco­myr thorowly resolued to become a Christian, presaging alreadie in his heart what would befall the Quéene his aunt, when she should be aduertised of that miserie: neuer­theles Marcomyr comforted him in the most amiable sort he might, assuring him to crowne him king of Tarsus, where he might lead a ioifull life with his faire Marenci­da: which assuaged his miscontented mind a little.

And if the Emperor did giue rich presents vnto Marco­myr, the Empresse sent no lesse to Celestina, some whereof were presently bestowed vpon her person, which was thē to be adorned to goe to the ceremonie of the baptisme of hir loue Marcomyr, who should be affianced to hir present­ly after: for this occasion did all the Barons and knights of the court mount on horsebacke, who did much more ho­nor to Marcomyr, then before when they knew not his descent. And being all arriued in gallant order within the church of Sancta Sophia, he was there catholicklie bap­tised [Page 234] (hauing for godfather his brother Diocles) then pre­sently by the hand of the most reuerend patriarke was he fianced to the faire Celestina: who was so richly atti­red, that she drew into more then a strange admiration al those who regarded her. And we néed not to compare her in perfection of her graces, corporal beautie, and rarenes of iewels and habits to the sage Andromecha, when the valiant and redoubted knight Hector of Troy espoused her, nor to Cleopatra Quéene of Egypt, when she conten­ded in magnificence & sumptuositie with Marke Antonie

Triumuir her husbād, eating one of the pearls which hanged at her ears, estéemed worth two hundred and fiftie thousand crownes: nor vnto many others of the ancient time, wherof the historians both Gréeke and Latin make memorable mention: for euen as the Carbuncle, the most rich and pretious of all Orientall stones, set in a darksome and obscure place doth send forth such a glistering & cleare splendor, that not onely all the place round about is made light and shining, but also the eies of all that looke vpon it are comforted and reioiced thereby: likewise might they estéeme of Celestina, not so much a Carbuncle within this temple, as the only and true Phenix of her age.

The troupe then returned to the pallace in the same goodly array as they departed thence, there began such a feast as neuer was the likē séene before: in such sort that euery one enioied part of the pleasure, except Arnedes the good prince, who felt himselfe in intollerable paine, and in extreame diffidence euer to sée his fathers Embassadours arriue there. By means whereof beholding a whole how­er of the day together the now affianced in such content, and his deare ladie Philocrista leaning vpon them (one arme vpon Celestina, and the other cast about Marcomyrs necke) to shew him the greatest signes of loue she might deuise, the sorrowfull louer attainted to the heart with that sight, fel at the same instant in a trance to the ground: but he was by many knights quickly holpen vp againe, [Page 235] and forthwith caried into his chamber, where after hée was come againe to himselfe, fetching a broken sigh from his very heart, he saith: Alas, my God, and will the succor which should come to this poor afflicted soule stay any lon­ger? How doe you suffer thus my passible and fraile body to sée deth before it eies, & yet cannot die as it desireth? [...]iij thou searcher of hearts, permit I beséech thée, that death may cast quickly his dart against mine, and imprint ther­in for whose sake I die, that I may haue no griefe to for­sake this world, but that only she may haue some cōpassi­on to sée breathlesse the seruant more deuoted to her ser­uice, then any other whom she may find in these lower re­gions, when she should séeke from Boreas to Auster, and from the Indians to the Moores. So he held his peace, when Diocles and those who did accompanie him, deman­ded of him the occasion of his so suddaine trance: whom he answered not a word, he felt himself so perplexed and con­founded in his thoughts: as no lesse was Philocrista for her part, knowing her selfe the principall cause of his ma­ladie, with which he had quickly finished his life, had hée not had spéedie remedie as you shall heare by and by.

CHAP. XXXI. How the Embassadors of France arriued at Constantinople, where they were honourably receiued by the Emperour, who hauing vnderstood the effect of their embassage, and therevpon conferred with the prince Arnedes, immediat­ly affianced to him his daughter Philocrista, by whose hand the Embassadors presented him their kings letter of commission.

THe post which Arnedes had dispatcht from Con­stantinople into France, made such expedition that within few daies he arriued in the famous cittie of Paris, where the king vnderstanding [Page 236] the will of his sonne, resolued soone vpon the conclusion of this busines: and did chuse out incontinent for the chiefe of this embassage, the duke of Orleans a very sage & pru­dent Siegnior, commaunding the Marques of Oliuet and the Countie Peter (one of the best knights of his court) should accompanie him, and many other Barons of Marke, so braue and richly suted in their habilliments, that they shewed euidently how much the French excéed all other nations in magnificence, and many other good parts, which now we will not speake of, being besides our purpose. The king hauing deliuered them their letters of commission & instructions in the state of their embassage, sent them away with many attires & pretious gifts which he sent to Philocrista & to the prince Arnedes: but before they were departed, there arriued in his court a knight who came frō the court of the Castilian king, to aduertise Recindos how his brother being departed without issue, al the people did much reioice that the scepter of such a king­dome fel into the hands of so valiant a prince as he. When the king of France vnderstood this newes by the Spanish gentlemā named Pinedes, he answered him that Recindo [...] was gone with Arnedes his sonne into Constantinople, where as he had since heard they won daily great honor & renowne, this was cause that Pinedes purposed to passe ouer into Gréece with his Embassadors, & for the same oc­casion they went to Tollā in Prouince to embarke them­selues in the Mediteranean sea, where sailing with a pros­perous wind, they arriued at Constātinople almost at the same time that Arnedes fel into the same trance you read of before. Being come within the hauen, two little Fri­gates, which went alwaies before the vessell of the Em­bassadors, were the first who cast ankers there, and soone after by cōmandment of the duke of Orleans, began those within boord tokens of ioy, to render thanks to God for their fortunate nauigation. Whereof the Emperor being aduertised, sent incontinent to sée what might those acti­ons [Page 237] of ioy meane: And vnderstanding they were the Em­bassadors of France, he felt a great gladnes in himself, ho­ping Arnedes might recouer some amendment by the re­port of this news. So y^t he cōmāded they should forthwith let him know therof, praying him to be of good chear, séeing y^e noblemē of his coūtry were ariued thē in those quarters.

We néed not ask whether Arnedes found himself any thing eased at these tidings, séeing the sodain recouerie he had in a moment by that meane, skewed well therein did consist the true Phisicke of his griefe: the which he left the same hower behind him in his bed to goe with Diocles towards the Emperor, who séeing him come so lustie, was a glad man of his amendment, when he said vnto him: siegnior Arnedes, it seemeth to me the arriuall of these French Gentlemen hath made you strong, and to recouer of your maladie. You say true my lord, quoth hée, it is that which is mine onely restoritie and sole reme­die. Philocrista who knew full well the meaning of Ar­nedes affectionate desire, was not glad a little of this oc­currance, so that to behold her in face and countenance, one might plainely haue read in her heart, and soone knowne whence this her gladnesse procéeded: wherein she secretly declared to the French prince, that which his tongue durst not manifest alowd, a thing wherein he née­ded no interpreter, but thanking her with like signes, went strait from thence toward the hauen to sée vnto which of his seruants the king his father had committed this legation. The Emperor sent with him many of his barons, to the end to accōpany the embassadors to his pal­lace, for the greater honor of whō, Diocles himself would néeds go with Arnedes, who sent his dwarf before to aduer­tise thē of his cōming towards y^e port: for this cause y^e duke of Orleās & his other two cōmpaniōs came quickly aland in one of y^e two seigats▪ wher seeing y^e prince first of all, ran vnto him bareheaded to kisse his hāds, in y^e which doing he imbraced thē, then said to y^e duke of Orleans? Ah my sweet [Page 238] cousin how many pleasures doth your arriuall in this cit­tie bring me? Surely many more then you may thinke: but tell me I pray you without passing farther, how doth my lord the king my father? My lord, the ioifullest man in the world answered the Duke, and as he who hath an ex­treame desire to sée you ere long: sendeth you word that so [...]orning as little as possibly you may in these parts, you would take your iorney quickly to returne into your good countrie of France. Therein will I obey him willingly replied Arnedes, before any long time passe after this day: in the meane time doe your honor vnto Diocles the empe­rors son, who of his grace would néeds take the paine to come so far as hether to receiue and entertaine you. Thē Diocles maruelling all these knights and French Nobles did so much honor and reuerence to the prince Arnedes, imagined presently he must néeds be their kings son. And in regard therof vsing many amiable spéeches to the duke of Orlians, and the other Embassadors, he praid them ve­ry gratiously to aduertise him of Arnedes busines, who vntill that hower would neuer manifest himselfe to any bodie.

My lord answered the Duke, he is our prince and soue­raigne siegnior, who through the ardent desire which hée had to offer his seruice to the Emperor your father, deter­mined to come vnknowne into this court, and to remaine here, dissembling his person till he might sée the things de­signed by him to come to so good issue as he desired: wher­in I hope according to the embassage, which the king his father hath committed to our charge to set some good and happie end, with the helpe of him whom I pray to send vs so good successe that we be not therein made frustrate of our attempt. In good faith quoth Diocles, turning himselfe towards the French prince, I haue great cause to com­plaine of you Arnedes, who haue hid your self so long time from me: for although you had resolued in comming he­ther not to discouer your selfe to any person, me thinketh [Page 239] you should not comprise me in the vniuersal number, con­sidering the familiar acquaintance betwéene vs two, al­beit I was ignorant of the splendor and nobilitie of your heroicall race. My good lord, replied Arnedes, embracing him▪ I pray you excuse me herein, for so much as that which hath brought me hether so farre distant from the French court, to do some exploites of armes which might honor my linage before it were by me manifested, hath in­cited nay rather constrained me to conceale my selfe the more: considering I could not surge at the port of my de­sire, not employing my selfe in that which did not still re­dound rather to my dishonor then commendation.

Assuredly quoth Dio [...]les then, if by your laudable and valerous feats of arms you desire to publish your name, it séemeth to me that the very day of the Iousts you should not haue deferred to giue so faire a lustre (declaring your roiall descent) to the prowesse and incomparable valor you shewed there. There Arnedes interrupted him & said, Ah? My lord, it is of your grace that it pleaseth you to place me in the number of those who did there well their endeuors, although I déeme not my self worthie to second the least of the great troupe which was present there: ne­uerthelesse if good will not to suffer an illustrious and ge­nerous heart to abase it selfe, hath sometime power to en­crease a mans forces, I thinke my selfe was none of the féeblest in all the companie. No indéed answered Diocles, but of the strongest, as euery one knoweth, witnesse the honor of the victorie which serued you then in stéed of a triumphant crowne: but I pray you let vs sur [...]ease these things to an other time, and we wil go find the Emperor, who shall be a most ioifull man of these tidings. Then they mounted on horsebacke with the Embassadors, who came all to alight before the pallace, where there was good lodging appointed them by command of the Empe­ror: and in the meane time Pinedes gaue the prince Ar­nedes to vnderstand how he past thorow Fraunce, [...] thin­king [Page 240] to find Recindos there, to whom he came to bring the newes of his brothers death, and how all the Barons and the common people of Castilia did most willingly accept him for their liege soueraign, after the decease of the king his father. Of this newes was the Frenchman very glad on the one side, séeing his cousin Recindos (whom he loued as himselfe) inheritor of the scepter of Castilia: but very sorrie because he heard no newes of him. Neuerthelesse assuring Arnedes that he did hope shortly for his returne, put him out of fantasie of going any further to séeke for him: for that quoth he, very hardly will he faile to bée at the tourney held at my mariage▪ the which I haue purpo­sed to publishe thorowout all the marches and frontiers, bounding this empire of Gréece.

But the Emperor who had knowledge before of some that made hast before him to the court, concerning the busines of prince Arnedes, when he saw him enter into the presence with his son Diocles, he rose vp from his state to embrace him, saying: What meanes this siegnior Ar­nedes, you would so cunningly dissemble your state with vs, we could neuer perceiue your cariage therein, procu­ring vs thereby to commit a great discourtesie, in not ho­noring you according to your merit? Tel me I pray you wherfore did you conceale your self to me, very wel know­ing how happie I should haue déemed my selfe to know you without any fiction of your person?

Gratious lord replied Arnedes, I beséech you in all humility not to vse these spéeches vnto me, for I acknow­ledge not my selfe worthie thereof, and lesse of the honor which I haue receiued in your countries, assuredly farre surmounting that little which I know I haue merited: assuring you my spirit had neuer taken rest, before I had come to see the magnificence of your court, to doe you my best seruice according to my power which is but small. Small indéed in respect of the good will which surpasseth that of the best affectionate seruants which you haue: in [Page 241] whose number, I beséech you to account me the very first as him who by deuotion and sinceritie of heart none li­uing can goe before in this behalfe: Wherein I find my selfe greatly disfauored of the heauen, [...]or none occasion hath as yet ben offered to shew it you in that sort as▪ I haue liuely imprinted it in my thoughts. It sufficeth then quoth the Emperor againe, of that which you haue done alreadie: being proofe of a truth very sufficient to raise you to this reputation of one of the best and most perfect knights of this our age: and as for me, if I be not shent for this fauor, considering the amitie I beare you, I shall be alwaies the formost in this opinion, wherein I do not thinke my selfe much ouerséene, as I should repute my self very happy to purchase you for my son in law, when you would giue therevnto your consent.

Arnedes who saw the passage opened, by which he ho­ped to conduct his soule into rest, and by none other but by him who had the true key thereof, felt himselfe almost ra­uished with ioy, whentaking the Emperor by the hand to kisse it in signe of thanks, went on thus: wel may I now vaunt my selfe to attaine the perfect fruition of al worldly blisse, séeing I am by you offered so honorable alliance, for which I cannot returne you so many thankes (to ac­quite my self therby of the obligation wherin I am yours bounden) but I shall find my selfe still more and more be­holding to you in a new bond which shall bind me in per­forming this kindnes. Neuertheles if the extreame affe­ction I haue to continue for euer your obedient seruant and humble sonne (if it séeme good vnto you) may by any meane serue you in stéed of an earnest, I beséech you ac­cept it such as I can present you, to the end hereafter you may vse me as your right hand and as your left, as rea­dily as your two eies at the only thought of your spirit. For euen as the thunder crack following the lightening which goeth before it, striketh more suddainely then any thing els his blow where he hitteth, far more prompt shal [Page 242] I be at the only coniectures which I shall gather of your desires, to satisfie you therin without attending to be com­manded therevnto.

The Emperor meruellous ioifull to heare him profer these honest speeches, knew very well with what arrow he was wounded, and that which moued him to come and seeke in his court the balme and perfect cure of his wound: therefore he caused him to sit downe by him, where he re­lated him many other matters, whereat the Emperour maruelled not a little, especially when he vnderstood the historie of his cousin Recindos. Of this was Melisla ex­ceeding glad, for shée loued the Spanish Prince most ar­dently▪

But we must not compare her to Philocrista in glad­nes and contentment of spirit, because the obiect of their inward spirits did witnes sufficiently, which of them two did conceiue more vnspeakeable ioy, wherein both their hearts did swim. On the morrow the Emperor caused all his pallace to be hanged round with cloth of gold, and all his most exquisit iewels and sumptuous riches to be set o­penly sorth, to the end the French Embassadors might sée his magnificent pompe. Who comming into the presence all clothed with magnifick and pretious habits, were ho­norably entertained by the Emperor, to whom they cau­sed the letter of the king of France his commission to bée deliuered by Philocrista: the tenour whereof said thus:

This letter read, the Emperour led the Embassadors into his chamber, where after he had vnderstood at length the full discourse of their Embassage, he called a counsell of his princes and nobles incontinent, to communicate vnto them his intention concerning this busines: the which they confirmed by their aduises as very good, as well to accomplish the promise he had made to the defunct king of Fraunce, as also for that the match séemed very [Page 244] [...] and so valiant a [...] as Diocles most [...] alliance of his [...] is sister had to sée [...] in resemblance. [...] be called in beautie a [...] [...], they were affianced to [...] with the greatest triumph and magnificence that any humane tongue might expresse, so that in the pallace and euery where in the city they did occupy them­selues in nothing but in making ioy and gladnes: where­at the Emperor and the Empresse were so excéeding well pleased and content, as they were euer in their liues: as well for the arriuall and knowledge of Marcomyr as for the betrothing of Philocrista with this roiall Prince of France: wherein Diocles determined to be armed knight, to the end to employ himselfe from that time foorth, in all warlike and mar­tiall affaires.