ARagon, Portugal, and Ca­stile, acknowledged each of them a Soveraign; this last Court, where Magnificence reign'd, attracted from the Borders of the West and South, so great a concourse of young Princes, that it had been very hard, should it not have serv'd for a Theatre to some extraordinary Ad­venture. Some publick Sports insti­tuted for the Exercise of such Illustri­ous young Persons, and in the cele­bration of which, those of both Sexes had chang'd their Names to those of some Deity in Poetry, gave birth to [Page 2]the first Flames of a young Prince of the Royal Family of Braganza, nam'd Alphonsus, who represented Mercury; and to the mutual inclinations of the Dutchess Anna Iphigenia, the High Admiral's Daughter, who personated Flora. That nimble God having bore away the honour of the Course, this Goddess presented him with a Chaplet of Flowers (as an Emblem of her Di­vinity) with so good a grace, that he could not forbear from requiting her agreeable ways of procedure, by the return of his Heart. He stay'd not for the day following the Feast, to shew her how sensible he was of the Favour which he had receiv'd from her, more valuing the having receiv'd the Garland from so fair a Person's hands, than the having gain'd the Vi­ctory. He declared to her openly before all the Court, that she tri­umpht over the Conquerour, and laid at her feet the Prize with which his Valour and Address had been recom­penc'd. [Page 3]'Twas from this moment, that these two tender Hearts were u­nited, that they began to sigh the one for the other, and that they form'd an inviolable Union. If Mercury grew passionately in love with Flora, Flora was in love with Mercury; so that they courted every occasion to signa­lize their love to each other.

Iphigenia had all the Charms that could render a Princess of sixteen in­finitely lovely, and the young Prince who was about two and twenty, was endow'd with all the Qualities that accomplish a Grandee. The love that Alphonsus conceiv'd for this So­veraign Beauty, was from its birth, of the character of that which is term'd vehement. It made a noise at Court, insomuch that the Queen, whose Ver­tue had drawn this young Princess from another Court, fearing lest so mutual and strong a Passion might produce something prejudicial to the Ladies Honour, took her into the [Page 4]number of her Favourites, that she might keep her always by her, and committed her to the care of an old Governess, whose Eyes it was very difficult for her to deceive. Never­theless, as Love is exasperated by Re­sistance, the more Obstacles Alphonsus found to surmount, the more his Pas­sion increased. There was no op­portunity offered it self of entertain­ing privately the Dutchess Iphigenia, which he let slip. He very rarely was out of her presence, insomuch that he gave occasion to some other young Lords to divert themselves, at his cost, so far, that one of the wittiest amongst them compos'd this Raillery upon his Assiduities.

All the Precautions of her who watcht our fair ones Conduct, could not deprive Alphonsus of the pleasure of entertaining her often in private. The more the Queen, who lookt up­on their Alliance as impossible (for very different reasons than those which hindred it indeed) oppos'd their desires, the more their Love became impatient, and contriv'd means to surprize the vigilance of the Gover­ness. Iphigenia bethought her self to make a Visit to the Princess Christina, Alphonsus's Sister, with whom she was very familiar; but as he was at variance with her, he could hardly resolve to sacrifice the resentment of many stinging Reproaches which she had made him, to some sweet mo­ments that might be recovered else­where. [Page 6]This Consideration induc'd our Illustrious Fair One (to avoid disobliging the Queen, and opening a hundred young Ladies mouths who would railly her Passion) to pro­pose to Prince Alphonsus a Truce, to whom she suggested the common Correspondence by Letters. Never­theless, as all things are discovered at long run, and as it is difficult to find trusty Confidents at Court, our Illustrious Lovers sufficiently thought upon the intercepting of their Let­ters, to agree together of a way to conceal their intelligence from the curiosity of People that are apt to laugh. They contriv'd then to reject the first word of every Line as useless to the sence, and to search after the Coherency of the Discourse, in skip­ping over one word to the next, and so going backwards again in the same manner, being at the end, even to the beginning. This is a Copy of the Letter which the Amorous [Page 7] Prince made, according to this my­stery.

This innocent Artifice succeeded ill to our Lovers. How faithful soe­ver a Maid of the Dutchess Iphigenia seem'd to Alphonsus, and whatsoever protestations she made him to put his Letter faithfully into her Mistress's hands; the Governess so absolutely disposed of all her Domesticks, frigh­ted by her threats, that she intercepted the Letter, whereof notwithstanding she could not understand the sence. She made a Copy of it to be taken, which she went to communicate to the Queen, and ordered that the Original should be delivered in secret to the young Dutchess.

The Queen trusted this mysterious Note with her Secretary, who after an hours meditation, decypher'd it with much ease, and read it thus.

The Queen, who was a very wise Princess, judg'd by this Letter, of the great Familiarity of these tender Lo­vers, [Page 10]and the consequences that it might produce. Her Prudence sug­gested nothing else to her, only to order the Governess to interrupt this Amorous Commerce, as much as de­cency would allow, and to forbid her taking notice of any thing to the young Dutchess concerning the inter­cepting of her Letter. Whilst Iphi­genia was busied in answering the Bil­let that she had receiv'd, the Governess entred her Chamber. Her unexpect­ed arrival made her put her Papers together with the greatest haste ima­ginable, and appear'd some time di­sturbed. After some ordinary Con­versation, the Governess having pur­posely brought in Prince Alphonsus in­to the Discourse, the Dutchess seem'd very indifferent on that Chapter, and let nothing appear that might betray her Love. That cunning Woman ob­serving by the disorder that appear'd in Iphigenia's looks, that she had been surpriz'd, and that she should be trou­blesom [Page 11]if she kept her company long, retir'd to leave her at liberty to betake her self to her former Employment.

This Fair One found her self per­plex'd, to make an Answer conforma­ble to the Note; she spar'd her pains, in hopes that one of Alphonsus his Si­sters Maids would do her the Courtesie to convey a Letter writ the common way, to the Party concern'd. In ef­fect, this complaisant Maid, whose name was Cornelia, found opportunity to satisfie her, and to deliver the young Prince her Letter, who immediately gave her marks of his Acknowledge­ment. This is the substance of the Letter.

A Letter written in terms so plain and passionate, strongly flattred Al­phonsus's amorous inclination, who af­ter that, remain'd some time in Re­pose.

Although Iphigenia suspected not the fidelity of her perfidious Confi­dent, she perceiv'd nevertheless, by the Assiduities that the Queen required from her, and the frequent Visits of her Governess, that they had a spight against her liberty. One day that she met Alphonsus near enough at a Co­medy, whose motions the Queen ob­serv'd, and studied all his looks, she took so well her time, that she told [Page 13]him, without being understood by any one whatsoever; Alphonsus, we shall not be able to see one another again with liberty, but at your Sisters; reconcile your self to her, and let none but the Maid that has given you my Answer, know of your Reconciliation. I will pre­pare her Mind, and I will manage your Honour and Interest as my own.

There was nothing but Love that could perswade Alphonsus to that mor­tifying advance, to see again a Sister that had a thousand times provok'd his Nature. It was the greatest trou­ble to him in the World, to resolve on it; and without the meeting with one of his Sisters Maids, which was the Confident of the Dutchess Iphigenia, I question if his Love had been able to have carried it above his Resentment. He engag'd this Maid, equally witty and discreet, to encline his Sister afar off, to court his Friendship, in repre­senting to her, that when Heaven could not but have in horrour their [Page 14]separation, it was shameful to see Per­sons of their Quality and near Rela­tion, live in a misunderstanding, that rendred them the sport of the Court. He promis'd to this Mediatrix to ac­knowledge her Services, and that if Heaven made him obtain the posses­sion of Iphigenia, she might flatter her self with the hope of a considerable Fortune. Now for fear that their In­terview should become suspected, he shew'd her the Wife of a Steward of the Kings Houshold, to whom she might give an account of her Nego­tiation.

Cornelia instructed in the designs of Alphonsus, run to communicate them to the Illustrious Mistriss of this Prince, who suggested to her the manner whereby she should insinuate her self into the mind of the Princess Christina, she counselled her to move this mat­ter the same Evening, that she would come to see this Princess on purpose, whereby she would strongly try her [Page 15]Inclination, in respect of Alphonsus her Brother.

Cornelia was playing the fool with the Princess Christina, who hid none of her thoughts from her, when she told her that she had had a Dream during which, she found her self the most happy Maid in the World. There was a likelihood that the sight of some agreeable Object had enter­tained her, and that there passed, du­ring this Dream, something too wan­ton to be related, since that she made a mystery of it to this Confident, to whom she would never reveal it, what entreaty soever she made. They contested yet agreeably together with that privacy that she permitted to Cornelia, when one came to adver­tise the Princess Christina of the ar­rival of Iphigenia, whose Coach was in the Court. She bid her tell her that she thought her self much ho­noured by her Visit, and that she was ready to receive her.

She mounted the Stair-case with her ordinary freedom, when she heard in an adjacent Parlour many Maids laughing at the Tales, which an old Woman told them, who by looking in their hands told them their good Fortune. As she was familiar and beloved by all the House, she stopt there, and inform'd her self of the cause of so extraordinary a Gaiety: She understood it, and pray'd them not to dismiss this Fortune-teller, till that she had spoke of her in the Cham­ber of the Princess.

The Prince Alphonsus, who knew the free humour of his Sister, had su­born'd this Woman, who was famous for her knowledge in Chiromancy, even to the foretelling of things to come. He had instructed her in part of his Sisters Life, and ordered her above all things, to predict to her, that dismal Consequences would spring from the misunderstanding that was between her Brother and her. [Page 17]This Prince knew well, that Cornelia would serve his Interests, and would yet add as much as was possible for her, to the impression of Predictions; and 'twas this that induc'd him to advertise her to ask for her at the Palace, in case that the Swiss should deny her En­trance. This old Woman was be­ginning to act her part to the satisfa­ction of the whole house, when Iphi­genia, that was not pre-acquainted with his design, heard her.

After the ordinary Complements pass'd between these two Princesses, their discourse, after having been some time serious, turning to free­dom, Iphigenia intreated the Princess Christina to be willing to permit the old Woman to come up, who with­out doubt would afford them diver­tisement. The Princess, who was not less curious than Iphigenia, agreed presently to the Proposition: The old Woman was brought into the Chamber, and there arose an agreea­ble [Page 18]Contest between the two Prin­cesses, which should present their Hand first. They were curious to hear the Recital of each others Ad­ventures, and each defended her self from having the first Experiment made on her. Cornelia, who was more an Enemy to Gallantry than the Princesses, and who had as well as they, her secret Intrigues, fearing to be forc'd first to pass the Pikes, pretended some occasion to go out; and 'twas this pretence that made them cast their Eyes on her, and or­der her to present her Hand. She obey'd and this cunning old Woman told her presently a thousand obli­ging things, for fear of frighting the Princesses: But as she receiv'd Com­mands from them not to spare her, she told this Maid, amongst other things, that she was belov'd by three several Persons; by two Cavaliers, and ano­ther Person whom she nam'd Baptem, and whose Birth equall'd not his [Page 19]Wealth. She added, that she had an inclination for the ugliest of the three, which nevertheless seem'd to her to have something amiable; which made the Princess say, that without doubt 'twas Monsieur such a one; which Cornelia so little agreed to, that she forgot even what she was, through the backwardness she shew'd at the earnest demand that was made her, to confess if it was true. Iphigenia, who would not vex this Maid, of whose intercession she might stand in need, pretended not to observe her ill humour, and diverted the business so handsomly, that she ory'd out laughing, and addressing her self to the Princess Christina, Madam, your Turn's next. This Princess waver'd so very much, and had so great trou­ble to present this pretended Mirrour of her Soul, that the particular incli­nation of Iphigenia, seconded by the impression of Destiny, made her con­sent to give her Hand, on condition [Page 20]that the Princess should follow her Example. This Agreement made between them, the old Woman en­larg'd upon a hundred pass'd Adven­tures that surpriz'd Iphigenia so very much, that she believ'd her truly a Sorceress. She was not for all that, so scrupulous as to fear venturing her Conscience, and therefore she let her make an end of saying all that her evil Genius suggested to her. After having heard a thousand probable things, she had the smarting satisfa­ction to hear the most cross Progno­stications imaginable: You shall be lov'd, says she, and you shall love. You shall sigh only for Objects worthy of you. You shall be perfidious and faithful▪ You shall furnish Occasion for a Tragedy. You shall obtain the Ob­ject of your Vows. You shall be a hap­py Rival, and you shall lead a happy Life, full of Prosperity and Tranquilli­ty, with the Person that thinks least to obtain you. So many obscure and [Page 21]confus'd Predictions pass'd in the mind of Iphigenia, for meer Fancies and Prognostications in the Air. Ne­vertheless, the sequel of this Princess's Adventures justified their truth. But let us pass over to what was made known in examining the Lines of the Princess's hand, the Sister of Alphon­sus, for whose Instruction our old Wo­man was sent thither.

The great seriousness which this Princess affected, who had heard too much upon Iphigenia's account, not to fear hearing some disagreeable Truths, disordred presently the old Woman, who endeavour'd to utter none but Events whose Remembrance should extreamly please, till Iphige­nia having told her, that she would not be satisfied that the Princess ha­ted Reserve and Flattery, so that she need not act against her knowledge, she ventured to speak more freely. All your Wishes, pursued she, are ful­filled; you shall experience a favoura­ble [Page 22]Destiny, and altogether resembling that of Madam, said she, shewing her the Princess Iphigenia. One thing, nevertheless, is wanting to you, Ma­dam; but unless you expresly command me to reveal it to you, I shall pass it over in silence. One may well ima­gine, that in stopping thus, she stirr'd up the curiosity of the one and the other. The Princess not being able handsomly to defend her self from entreating her to tell her freely her Thoughts, the old Woman added, with assurance, That it was not very commendable for her to live in mis­understanding with one of her nearest Relations: That the delay of a Re­conciliation might be prejudicial to her; and that if she would do Ju­stice to her self, she ought to consi­der, that this Relation was not alto­gether to blame; and that in fine, it was her Interest to make some Ad­vances, and to court his Friendship. This confident Declaration, which [Page 23]very much pleas'd Iphigenia and the Maid, surpriz'd the Princess, who would know no more, and call'd the old Woman Dotard. She was then dismist. After some Reflections that our Ladies made together upon what had been foretold them, Iphigenia took her time to express that she was altogether astonish'd, that this old Woman had been able to reveal the difference of the Princess and Al­phonsus her Brother. The Princess, whom such plain Declarations asto­nish'd not less than the others, could not keep from crying out, Fables! Fables! Conjectures found upon no­thing! Iphigenia, who interrupted her, told her, that in truth she was not of opinion that one ought to be superstitious to that point, to give credit to all things uttered, nor to fear very much the application and effect of Predictions: But that neverthe­less, it was prudence to use precaution against Events the least dangerous; [Page 24]that as for the rest, for what regarded the falling out between her and the Prince Alphonsus her Brother, it would always be a thing to be commended in her to dissipate it, or to contribute at least in what depended upon her, that the fire of their dissention might be extinguish'd as soon as possible. Although this kind of Lesson did not extreamly please the Princess, she receiv'd it, without confusion, from her Friend, from which it came, because she believ'd her not to speak for Interest. Iphigenia seeing her not far from an Accommodation, said to her, Madam, without having regard to the Chimerical Threats of a Super­stitious Old Woman, but purely through a Principle of a Christian Charity, it is necessary that your Generosity now triumph over your Resentment, and that you suffer the Lord Alphonsus to repair hither this Evening. I have authority enough over him; and I know besides, that he esteems and loves [Page 25]you too tenderly, not to be willing to make the first step. I grant you but two hours to resolve on it. He shall himself do all that I shall prescribe him by a Note under my Hand, which Cor­nelia shall give him. I am perswaded, interrupted she the Princess, that my Brother adores you, that he has conceiv'd so high an Idaea of your Merit, that he cannot resist obeying you; that you rule all his Motions, not to say, that you are the Soveraign of his Heart. I, Madam, reply'd Iphigenia. I think not advantageously enough of my Charms, to pretend to that glory. The Prince Alphonsus is altogether judicious, and 'tis that makes me hope that he will give ear to Reason, and not keep him­self from following it. The Princess relish'd the Proposal of Iphigenia. It was agreed on, that Cornelia should follow her, and that she should receive from her a Note for the Lord Al­phonsus.

Iphigenia, at her return, took her Pen in hand, and writ, with the great­est diligence, this Word of Advice to Prince Alphonsus.

Cornelia charg'd with this Billet, carry'd it to the Lord Alphonsus, who knew so well to counterfeit the Re­cital she made him concerning the Predictions of the old Woman, that she could never suspect that she had been his Emissary. He promis'd to repair to the House after the Play, and really did so about Eight a Clock at Night. Iphigenia, who had pre­vented him there, and who had given the last motion to the Resolution of the Princess, was no sooner inform'd of his coming up Stairs, but she went to meet him, and call'd to him at the door, My Lord Alphonsus, enter without Retinue, and leave below [Page 28]your Fierceness and Resentment. She had hardly finish'd these words, when the young Prince, who carried Sere­nity drawn on his Face, and Love in his Eyes, appear'd. She inform'd the Princess of his approach, who rose from her Chair of State, and went to meet him as far as the Door. Some tender Embraces, without many words, put an end to their Diffe­rence. After that moment, there appear'd no more Coldness between them; and Alphonsus entertain'd his Sister with, as much familiarity, as if they had never been at difference. After some moments spent in a free Conversation, to which Iphigenia had almost all the while contributed, the Princess asked the Lord Alphonsus. If he was yet Master of his Heart; to which the Prince answer'd, That he had sacrificed it to the Graces of the Charming Iphigenia: and that lovely Dutchess answer'd him so tenderly, that she had given him her own in [Page 29]requital. That the Princess sung up­on the account of this exchange of Hearts, very much to the purpose, this Stanza of a Song made upon a like Subject.

The good humour of the Princess Christiana, excited Freedom in our two Illustrious Lovers, who began to tell one another tender things, and to make Protestations of Fidelity to each other. The Princess, who had not in so young years a Judgment ripe enough to discern the Interests of States compromis'd in the Alli­ance of Princes, flatter'd at that time [Page 30]their Passion; and counselled them not to dispute so long time with each other, but to search out the best means to give each other Assurances of their Love.

This Advice, although ill weigh'd, agreed extreamly to the Sentiments of Alphonsus. It infinitely pleas'd the Dutchess Iphigenia, who conjur'd the Princess to agree, that she might come every day to her House to pass some moments with the Prince Al­phonsus, until that Heaven had ap­pointed their Marriage. The Prin­cess very well perceiv'd by this Pro­position, that her Brother had not again courted her Amity, but for having the liberty of her House, where Iphigenia might come alone, without giving Umbrage to her Go­verness, who would not imagine that the Lord Alphonsus would so easily hearken to a Reconciliation. In ef­fect she did it with so little noise, that during more than a month our Illu­strious [Page 31]Lovers had the convenience to entertain one another privately, and to open their Hearts to each o­ther.

Nevertheless, as it was difficult that such a Commerce should remain secret at Court, where great Persons are watch'd by as many Eyes as Ar­gus had, and have as many Histori­ans of their Life, as they have Do­mesticks; Iphigenia's Governess, who never could meet her at home in the Evening, having inform'd her self of the Rendezvouz of our Lo­vers, went to give an Account to the Queen, of their secret practices; who obtain'd from the King, that Al­phonsus should not see Iphigenia any more.

Our Illustrious Lovers began but to taste the preliminary Sweets of Love, when the Malice of a barba­rous Fate came to traverse their springing Pleasure. The Dutchess, to whom the Queen on her side had [Page 32]read very disagreeable Lectures, fre­quented no more almost the House of the Princess, for fear to meet her dear Alphonsus there, who lost also the habit of coming to the House, not to seem a Rebel to the King's Orders. They endeavour'd, the one and the other, to ward so rude a Blow, by the most flattering considerations that Hope could produce. Iphige­nia did her self so much violence to hinder her Grief from breaking out, that she fell into a drooping that reduc'd her to extreamity; she kept her Bed fifteen days, during which time, it was not permitted Prince Al­phonsus to come to comfort her with his presence. Her oppression in the mean time became so prodigious, that in her Raving Fits, with which she was agitated, and which differ'd nothing from Madness, she would not speak but of her dear Alphonsus, to whom Cornelia made a tender Report of the state of her Health. She was [Page 33]but some days recovered, and went not yet out of her Chamber, when Alphonsus who alter'd visibly, and was fallen into a profound Melancholy, writ this Billet-doux.

MY Heart is without motion, char­ming Princess, and resents all the Alterations of yours. Are we then so criminal, that they condemn us to death? The Melancholy which de­vours me, gives me it. I expire every time that I hear of your pitiful Condi­tion; and as I inform my self of it each moment, I presume to tell you, that I no longer live. Ʋphold your self, adorable Iphigenia, and let the thoughts of what's to come, elevate you above the present Persecutions. In the deplora­ble Estate Inhumanity has reduc'd me to, I can yet dispute it even to Death, if I hear that in that little Life is left you, you yet turn your Thoughts towards the faithful Alphonsus.

Iphigenia steeped this tender Let­ter in her Tears. She was very de­sirous in the extreamity wherein she was to answer it: But besides, that her weakness would not suffer her to hold a Pen, her Bed was always so besieged with Ladies that made her troublesom Visits, that she could not find the conveniency of discoursing one moment with Cornelia, the Con­fident of her and her Lover.

This Letter reviv'd her Love. She became so impatient to see her dear Alphonsus, that so long an absence threw her into a Melancholy that caus'd her Relapse. Her Distemper increased, and her Raving Fits recom­menc'd. Her Mind was wholly ta­ken up with the Answer that she would make to her Lovers Billet, which she search'd for oftentimes be­tween the Pillows where she had put it. Her trouble appear'd so visible one day to her Spies, that they had [Page 35]the boldness to take away from her this Note, whilst she took some Re­pose, and to put it into the hands of her Governess, who read what it contain'd, and made it be put in its place, for fear of increasing her Di­stemper. She went in the mean time to give an Account to the Queen, who complain'd of it to the King.

This prudent Monarch, fearing that if any Alliance of this conse­quence should be made without the knowledge of the Princes who ho­noured his Court with their Children, they should be scandalized at it, and recal them home, judg'd it proper to give notice to Prince Philip Alphon­sus his Father, and to the Admiral Father to Iphigenia, of the violent Inclination that they had one for the other. This Alliance being advan­tageous for Prince Philip, his Answer was, That he would leave Heaven to act in it: and the Admiral not judg­ing [Page 36]that she had provided for her self to her advantage, he believ'd that it would be easie to divert this Inclination, in giving another Lover to his Daughter. He conjur'd then his Majesty most humbly to be wil­ling to recommend to her the old Duke of Alvaro, who was a Lord ex­treamly rich, and whom the fear to meet with a young Heart already dispos'd of, hindred to declare him­self to Iphigenia

The King, inform'd of the Senti­ments of these Princes, sent afresh to Alphonsus, to forbid him to see Iphi­genia, who was then absolutely out of danger. The Queen undertook to prepare her to hearken favourably to the Duke of Alvaro. This love­ly Princess, who at first understood her Intention, told her Majesty, That although it appear'd that nothing in the World ought to be freer than the Choice of a Husband, she had so much Respect and Esteem for the [Page 37]Lord that she had propos'd to her, that she would endeavour to fancy him 40 years younger, that she might have more reason to love him. The Queen, who judg'd by this Answer, that it was not easie to perswade a young Maid to love indifferently all sorts of Objects, contented her self with this beginning, and made the Amorous Old Man comprehend it would be a hard matter to surprize a place possess'd by a powerful Enemy: That he might nevertheless render his Assiduities to Iphigenia, and that he might put in practice all his In­dustry, to endeavour to make him­self be beloved. The Duke, who was a little sensible of the weakness of Age, was not capable to remove so many Engines. He went the same Evening to the Queen's Apart­ment, where he had been inform'd Iphigenia would be; and it was in her Majesties presence that he made her his first Declarations. It is not to [Page 38]be believed how wittily this young Dutchess answer'd the old Count, and how she made him flote between Hope and Despair. She droll'd a long time upon the difference of years, and ended at last with prote­sting that she loved better a white and experienced Head, than a vigo­rous and well-made Body.

Iphigenia, who conceiv'd that they had design'd this Old Man for her, was impatient to inform Alphonsus of this Comedy. But the promises she had made to the Queen to think no more of him, and to have Eyes only for him that Heaven seem'd to have chose for her by the hand of her Father, made her fear to renew with Alphonsus a new Commerce. Never­theless, she run to the House of the Princess Christina, to whom she im­parted the Adventure, and where she writ these Lines, which she left upon the Table of her Cabinet for her Lo­ver.

As soon as Alphonsus entred the House of the Princess his Sister, Cor­nelia put him in mind of the place where he might find this Note. His meeting her, moderated his Sorrow; he read it over and over, with the greatest satisfaction imaginable, and carried it away without having thought it necessary to make an An­swer to it.

In the mean time, the Lord Al­varo gave no rest to Iphigenia, he press'd her, he sollicited her, he em­ploy'd the Credit of all those that had any power over the mind of this [Page 41] Dutchess, he offer'd her a thousand Jew­els of value, gave her Comedies, Balls, Serenades, treated magnificently on her account a party of the Ladies of the Court, went not from her house till it was very late, was at her Toilet, and perform'd admirably well all the Devoirs of a young Gallant; during which, she rallied his Weakness: And Alphonsus, who believ'd himself only beloved, published every-where, that he was collecting the Memoirs of what passed between the old Duke, and the lovely Iphigenia, to compile a Gallant Novel, which he would call, The Im­potent Gallant.

Old Age is always distrustful and suspicious. The Duke maintain'd very many Persons up and down to watch Alphonsus, who inform'd him that he turn'd his Conduct into Ri­dicule, and that he endeavour'd to render him the Proverb of the Court. This Presumption exasperated the Old Man to such a degree, that he [Page 42]resolv'd to be reveng'd of him. If his Strength had been answerable to his Courage, he would not have em­ploy'd any other Arm but his own to demand satisfaction of Alphonsus. Having one day met him two Leagues from the Town, following the first motions of his great Heart, he a­lighted from his Coach, and obliged Alphonsus to alight, with a resolution to fight him, if Count Angelo, his Nephew, who was with him, had not taken his Uncles part, who was more than Threescore and fifteen years old, against a Prince that was hardly Nine and twenty.

These two young Lords having drawn their Swords, pusht for some time very vigorously. It was not the Dukes fault, that his Nephew, whom he animated by all powerful Exhortations, remain'd not Master of the Field. He was nevertheless wor­sted, having receiv'd a very dange­rous Wound in the Arm, by which [Page 43]he lost very much Bloud. This sad Spectacle, very far from cooling the Duke's Courage, inflam'd it more; he put himself in a posture to second the Wounded, when Alphonsus, who was too brave to engage with une­qual strength, smiling, pray'd the Duke not to oblige him to do an Action which would be always re­proachful to him, although even he should have the better of it. Then remounting his Horse, he return'd the same way towards the Town up­on a Hand-gallop. The noise of this Rancounter was spread abroad half an hour after, and came even to the Ears of the King, who gave command to Alphonsus to confine himself to his house, till new Orders.

Iphigenia heard, almost at the same time, the success of Alphonsus his Arms. Whatsoever inclination she had for this Prince, she could not but compassionate the Duke's Fortune, whose Courage she admir'd. She [Page 44]took his part in some sort also against this young Rival, because that she heard that he insolently vaunted of his advantage; she suffered with re­gret that a young man should insult over one of so great Age, and con­ceiv'd for the Duke as high Senti­ments of Esteem, as she had Love for Alphonsus. She receiv'd a Visit from that Old Man that very same Evening, where he told her things that touch'd her very much.

'Twas after a serious Conversation that she had had with him, where he had painted out the Advantages she might draw from her Alliance, that she pass'd a part of the Night in me­ditating upon the Duke's Proposals. Amongst other Reflections which she made, she considered that it would be always commendable to obey a Father who was more understanding in Affairs than her self, and who only look'd after her Interests; that the Pleasures of the Bed made not [Page 45]up the greatest Delights of Life; that if she tasted not presently of those Sweets which wise men accoun­ted but superficial and imaginary, she should yet, after the death of a man within two inches of the Grave, in the middle of her Age, experience them; that Alphonsus pass'd amongst those who kept him company, for a fantastick Spark, and rash; and that it might be hazardous and trouble­some to sacrifice her Liberty to a young man, who lov'd less on the account of Reason than Passion. Sleep having surpriz'd her in the midst of these confused Thoughts, the first that possess'd her when she was a­wake, was to make tryal by Wit and Address, of the true Temper of Al­phonsus; whereby she resolv'd to sound his Heart by an Artifice that I shall tell you, after that I have de­scrib'd the Discourse which she had that day during some hours with the Duke.

She took a little rest in the inner part of an Alcove, all alone. She was there reading some pages of a Romance which she had in her hand, when the Old Duke was brought in to her Chamber. He sate down by her, and discours'd with her of in­different subjects, till she fetcht a sigh, which made the Conversation change. He took it for a token of the desire she had to hear him to speak of other matters, and 'twas that made him begin in this sort: ‘I know not, Madam, whether you have heard favourably the Declarations of Love that I have made you. I am perswaded that you would be sensible of those that should be made you by Persons of more merit and fewer years. It is true, that Youth has powerful Charms, and that old Age cannot but cause disgust to a young Dutchess, accomplish'd as you are; but it must also be acknow­ledg'd, that that has for its share [Page 47]Transports of Anger and Fury, and this, Prudence and good Conduct. It is true moreover, that the first joyns to external Charms the Sub­tilties of Discourse, and that the Language of the other is not very perswasive. Nevertheless, I have this advantage, Madam, above those who may pretend to the ho­nour of your Alliance, that if I explain my self more plainly, I speak with more sincerity. You may believe besides, that if it be my good Fortune to possess you, I will endow you with all the Estate which Birth and Fortune have heap'd upon me. I should be ne­vertheless in despair that the World should one day reproach me with having done violence to your In­clination. You have in your young years more understanding than any Princess of this Court; and therefore you are of your self capable of determining in an Affair [Page 48]of this consequence. As for the rest, I can assure you, pursued he laughing, that against the custom of those of my years, I am neither troublesome nor jealous.’

Iphigenia, who had till then kept silence through respect, answer'd the Duke with very much modesty, ‘That she would think upon the things which he had urg'd to her; that his Reasons were very strong; and that in a little time he should know her Resolution. That as for the rest, she was infinitely oblig'd to him for the choice that he was pleas'd to make of her, in the midst of a Court where he might dispose absolutely of the Heart of the Fairest and most Accomplish'd of all those Princesses that made up its Delights.’ She pray'd him, pursu­ant to this Discourse when he took leave of her, ‘to demand of the King the liberty of Alphonsus, which would not be refus'd him. I have [Page 49]a strong inclination, said she to him, to tax this Prince of Rashness, to treat him with Haughtiness, and to break off with him for ever, as lit­tle regard as he has to the Lessons I shall prescribe him.’

Although this Intention to break with him was only conditional, the Duke, without troubling himself to dive into it, went to demand of the King Alphonsus's liberty, and to in­treat his Majesty to permit him once more to see Iphigenia; which ha­ving obtain'd from his Mercy, he went himself to assure Alphonsus of the King's favour, to conjure him to forget what was past, and to inform him that the Princess Iphigenia desired to see him.

This Prince was very much sur­priz'd at the Advances of the Duke, which made him suspicious of some Stratagem that he was contriving against him. Nevertheless, he thank'd him handsomly for the good Offices [Page 50]that he had just then done him, and promis'd to go to receive the Orders, of the Dutchess. He went to her House two hours after, and Iphigenia was no sooner inform'd of his arrival, but she dismist the Company that was with her.

The love which she had had for this Prince, and which was not yet extinguish'd in her Heart, made her seem to feel very much joy at his return: ‘Come, said she to him, smi­ling, wicked man, I have many things to tell you. Prepare your self to hear such as will be disagree­able to you.’ To which Alphonsus reply'd, ‘A tender Princess cannot speak harsh things; and were I as culpable as I am faithful, you could not so handle me, that your Morti­fications would be of force to make me repent of my Crime, because you would mortifie me with so good a grace, that I should always esteem my self Innocent. You are [Page 51]too presumptious, added Iphigenia, and I believe you will change your mind at the Propositions I have to make you. You may try me, Ma­dam, pursued he, as much as you please; I flatter my self to be able to justifie what I have said. Very well, continued the Dutchess, since you have so strong a Wit, and that I see you arm'd against all sorts of Attaques, sit you down there, and delay not to answer me.’ They had no sooner taken Seats, but she said to him, ‘The business is, my Lord Al­phonsus, that you give your Con­sent that I become your Rival's Wife. I believe I need not tell you that the Admiral is a man solid and interessed, who will never consent to our Alliance; that he will make me marry the Duke Alvero, whose great Wealth is able to uphold our Family; and that the King will a­gree to no other Match. Let me then do a thing against my Inclina­tion: [Page 52]Permit me to put a man in his Grave that cannot live longer almost, that we may be in a better condition to pass our live times hap­pily and quietly. You need not doubt but to find me always the same in Body and in Mind. Thus I do not properly break with you, I only propose a delay that may last but a very little time.’

Although it is true that Alphonsus did not expect a Complement of this nature, having a little consulted with himself, and appear'd for some time thoughtful, believing himself banish'd from the Heart of Iphigenia, he would shew her that he was as in­different as she was changeable, and 'twas that which put this Answer in his mouth. ‘Are these, Madam, the Promises of an inviolable Fidelity. Have you so soon forgot the mutu­al Protestations which we have made? Can I believe that you have lov'd, since you now cease from [Page 53]loving? What can I hope from a Flame which is extinguish'd in the heat of its vigour? No, Madam, I cannot, without dying, see you in the Arms of a Rival, if you do not promise me that the Marriage which you are contriving shall only serve as a Vail to the Favours which you will grant me.’ Alphonsus thought he might very well insult over the Princess's Vertue, since she seem'd to have no more love for him. Iphige­nia offended at so insolent an Answer, dissembled then and reply'd nothing, only that he should have cause to praise her Fidelity. They parted thereupon dissatisfied with each o­ther, insomuch that some Servants perceiv'd that Alphonsus shook his head, and muttered between his teeth at the foot of the great Stair-case.

After so surprising a Proposal, Al­phonsus abated much in the Senti­ments of Esteem which he had for the Princess, who became almost in­different [Page 54]to him; and Iphigenia after a Proposition so offensive, shew'd her coldness to Alphonsus, who did all he could to turn the Duke en Ridicule, and to render the Dutchess the Ob­ject of the Court-Raillery, He com­pos'd Verses for this effect which he spread every-where, under an un­known Name, wherein he describ'd the ridiculous Fires of an Old Man and the Infidelity of his Mistriss. Here is a Copy of them, agreeable to the Original.

These Verses made noise enough to come to the knowledge of the Duke, and of her who was made the subject of them; upon which she threatned Alphonsus to play him an ill trick for it: he betrayed the Se­cret which he owed to Iphigenia's trust in him, and manifested his Le­vity, in making the Letter publick; wherein this poor Lady declaim'd a­gainst the rigour of Destiny, which ordain'd for her an impotent Old Man. Iphigenia outrag'd at such a [Page 56]proceeding, went to complain to the Princess Christina, who told her, ‘That she ought to have known better Alphonsus's humour, before she had trusted him; that he was the most giddy-headed Lover in the World, and a young man without discre­tion, who considered not, provided he could divert himself, at whose cost it were; that she was in the same apprehension on the score of such a like indiscreet Spark, to whom she had entrusted something which she would very fain keep secret; that it was not very difficult to make this Letter pass for coun­terfeit; and that as to the rest, she should refer her self to common Report; that Calumny was the Vice of Courts, and that she should be before assur'd of the truth of the Fact, from his own Confession, who had been accounted the Author of the Report.’ Iphigenia, who relish'd these Reasons, represented to the [Page 57]Princess Christina, that to tax Al­phonsus of it, were to expose her self to new Railleries; that he would be cunning enough to deny the thing, and malicious enough to adde Satyr upon Satyr, and to divert himself with her Fears.

Whilst our intimate Princesses were deliberating together of the means to avoid hazarding themselves with Alphonsus, in extorting the truth from him, the Duke came to pay a Visit to the Princess Christina, with whom he hop'd to find Iphigenia, who made her the Repositary of all her Secerets. He entred, they discours'd for some time together, every one was in a good humour, when the Conversa­tion having turn'd upon the Chapter of the Duke's Marriage with Iphige­nia, the Old Man to whom she had as it were engag'd her Faith, told her, ‘That he was too much her Friend, and too sincere to conceal a­ny thing from her.’ And drew a [Page 58]Paper out of his Pocket which was an exact Copy of the Letter which we have been speaking of, wherein Iphigenia shew'd her aversion for the Duke, on the back of which Alphonsus his Verses were written.

The reading of the Epigram in the first place, mortifi'd Iphigenia in the highest degree. But that which con­founded her, was the shock which that Letter gave her, which Love had heretofore dictated to her, and which Treachery had now made pub­lick. The Princess Christina, who saw her in this perplexity, drew her out of trouble, in making pleasant Reflections upon that Letter. Iphi­genia believing it would be to her advantage to turn the business into Raillery, grew pleasant in her turn, and own to the Duke, ‘That she was the Author of that Letter; that in reality, the first proposal that had been made her of an Alliance with him, had made her wild at the [Page 59]time that she had an Inclination for Alphonsus: But that this fault ought to be forgiven her; that it was a proof of her Constancy and Fidelity; that having never had the honour to have been in his compa­ny, she had given way too much to the Impression which his Age made on her Spirit; and that as the Fire which is difficult to be kindled, is likewise difficult to be extinguish'd, the greater Aversion she had for him before she knew him, the greater Esteem she had conceiv'd for him since she had known him, and that this Esteem should never be blotted out.’ She spoke too well, and de­fended her self with too much Wit, not to obtain her Pardon. The Old Man tore the Letter, and discours'd no more of any thing, but of demand­ing satisfaction from Alphonsus.

They might freely consult of the means to be reveng'd of him in the presence of the Princess his Sister. [Page 60]For besides that she lov'd him not, the hopes to become the onely Heiress of her Family, made her de­sire his death. They concluded then that the Count St. Angelo, the Duke's Nephew, should challenge Alphon­sus, and that they should decide to­gether the difference that was be­tween them. ‘I will go send for him this Evening, said the Old Man; you will inspire him with a Spirit of Revenge; and although I esteem him valiant, I doubt not but he will become a hundred times fiercer, when you shall your self have put your Interests into his hands. It will be an honour to fall in my service, and in the Quarrel of that Person whom I most honour.’ Ac­cording to this Promise, the Duke withdrew, and left the two confident Princesses at liberty to resume their Conversation.

They judg'd it convenient, after some deliberation, to send for Al­phonsus, [Page 61]who came to them an hour after. The Princess Christina, as soon as he was sate down, began to speak, by asking him, when he would give over abusing his Relations, and when he would leave the World in Repose. He was going to reply something, when Iphigenia, impatient, without any transport of Anger, call'd him Perfidious, and put into his hands the pieces of the Copy of the Letter which had been torn but a little before. This Letter was so dis­pers'd, that he knew not the Cha­racter of the Person who had transcrib'd it. He pretended to be ignorant of what it was, and employ'd above half an hour in seeming to fit again the pieces of Paper, though he still plac'd them wrong. Iphigenia per­ceiving that he mistook on purpose, took the pieces again out of his hand, and told him, that they contain'd the Copy of a Letter which she had through confidence writ to him: [Page 62]That she could never have thought that he had been so base to divulge it, and to employ his Pen in compo­sing the most bloudy Railleries that could be read. That it could never be any Credit for him to be reveng'd after so base a manner, of a Person whose tender Sentiments he had not been acquainted with. Alphonsus, counterfeiting astonishment, seem'd to understand nothing of Iphigenia's discourse, and thereupon she her self fitted the pieces of the Letter, so that they might be read. He swore after a great exclamation, that that Trea­chery should cost the Keeper of his Wardrobe his Life. That that Let­ter had been stollen out of his Poc­ket; that he would punish the bold­ness of the Author of this Crime, and protested that for his part he was in­nocent of what he was accused of. His Hypocrisie was too visible: His Excuses were not at all receiv'd, and he endeavour'd in vain to justifie him­self. [Page 63]There was no Trick which he made not use of, to disswade Iphigenia even to the shedding of Tears: He threw himself on his Knees, and ask­ed her Pardon for a Fault which he would efface with the Bloud of any Man, and for the expiation of which, he would voluntarily give his own, were he guilty of it. ‘'Tis not that which I demand, said Iphigenia, you will never kill the guilty; if you spare him who terms himself in­nocent, we expected such-like Ju­stifications. Know that I solemnly retract the Word that I have given you. Take what's pass'd for a Foolery; you shall know towards the Evening the cause for which I have intreated you to come hither. To morrow you — She was go­ing on further,’ when the Princess Christina having pull'd her by the Arm, made her stop there. Alphon­sus, who understood by half a word what she was about to say, rose up [Page 64]as soon as she was silent, and salu­ting the company, told her, To morrow, Madam, to morrow whatever you please. He thereupon withdrew and was just getting into his Coach, when the Count de St. Angelo entred. This Rencounter made him suspect that it was he with whom they threatned him. But he was in no great trouble, and he went home to expect with patience what was meant by that word, To morrow.

St. Angelo had scarce presented himself before these Princesses, when Iphigenia said to him, ‘I doubt not, Sir, but you are already inform'd what I demand from your gene­rous Friendship; you know how Alphonsus has offended me, and how much the Duke has reason to complain of him: The business is to demand satisfaction of this inju­rious Prince. He is valiant, and will accept all Challenges. If my Interests affect you, you will not [Page 65]be troubled that I have made choice of you as of an undaunted Lord, whose Courage is universally known. Are you dispos'd to second my In­tentions, and to fight for the Duke's Honour. I am fully resolved of it, Madam, reply'd the Count, if you do me right, you ought to be perswaded of it, before I assure you of it. Prince Alphonsus uses you after a very uncivil manner. All the Court blames him, and will without doubt approve the design which you project with Justice, and which I shall endeavour to execute with all the Ardour I am capable of. After whatever manner things go, whose success we cannot fore­see, pursued Iphigenia, I shall be sensibly indebted to you all my Life. Send then this Evening to advertise Alphonsus to meet you to morrow with his Pistol, accompa­ny'd with his Second, between the hours of Seven and Eight, at a [Page 66]place which you shall appoint him. You shall find at your Lodging, at the time appointed, the Person who will be your Second.’

This was enough for Count An­gelo, who, besides these Considera­tions, had on his own score Reasons for Enmity against the Prince Al­phonsus, with whom he had a hun­dred times sought an occasion of quar­relling. He took leave of the Prin­cesses, after he had testified very civilly to the Dutchess, that he had the greatest Obligations in the World to her, that she had judg'd him worthy to main­tain her quarrel. Iphiginia at last took leave of the Princess, to whom she said, That she was going to think of a Comrade for St. Angelo.

This generous Maid (who had more Courage than is usually found in her Sex) believ'd she could not find any Person whatsoever that could revenge her Honour with more Valour than her self. Arm'd with [Page 67]the resolution of a Heroine, she sent to borrow the Habit of a Cavalier, which she put on the next day. She provided a Case of Pistols, of which she made tryal, and took Coach ear­ly in the Morning, accompany'd only with a Gentleman Usher, who imagined nothing else, but that she was going to some Hunting Match, whom she dismiss'd as soon as she was alighted at the Count of St. Angelo's Lodgings.

That Count, who immediately knew her in this Equipage, was very much surpriz'd when she told him the resolution she had of demanding satisfaction her self of her Treacherous Gallant. He endeavour'd by all the pressings Reasons in the World, to make her alter her thoughts. But he found so much opposition on her part, and so much eagerness, that he was flatter'd with the hopes of seeing her a Conquerour. They both eat a light Breakfast, equipped themselves, moun­ted [Page 68]on Horseback, and went to the place appointed, where Alphonsus was before them half a quarter of an hour.

As far off as Iphigenia could dis­cern him, she took her Pistol in her hand, and made him a signal to make ready, not being willing to be de­tain'd by all the common Ceremo­nies, for fear of being known. But Alphonsus cry'd out, that that was not the custom here; that they ought not to fight without agreeing before on what Conditions. Then they approached each other, and St. Angelo having shew'd Alphonsus the unknown Cavalier who was to fight with him, he so attentively consi­dered the Face of the Person would duel him, that he knew Iphigenia under her disguise. He then chang'd Colour, and our Dutchess Cavalier having observ'd it, levell'd her Pi­stol at him: He escap'd the shot of her Pistol, and having shot off his into the Air, he cry'd out, ‘What is [Page 69]it you, adorable Dutchess! is it you that would take away my life? If I have merited Death, I consent to lose it, and that you should take it from me, without disputing it with you. It will be always glo­rious for me to fall under the stroaks of a Heroine.’ Iphigenia, incens'd then, replied, ‘No, Ungrate­ful, I have not so mean a Soul, as thou hast a perfidious Heart. How thirsty soever I am for thy Bloud, I am not resolv'd to drink it, until I have justly spilt it. Defend thy self like a gallant man; and if thou hast any Esteem for me, either de­prive me of Life, or furnish me with fair means to take it away from thee.’

How great a mind soever our A­mazon made appear to fight, she could never obtain from Alphonsus the sa­tisfaction which she desired. The Seconds, after their Example, would not discharge; and Alphonsus repre­sented [Page 70]to them, that they could not gain Honour in a Combat so singular. Our Illustrious Heroine did an Act which would have been blamed in any other but a Woman; for hur­ried away by her spight, having clapp'd the muzxle of her Pistol to Alphonsus' Horse's head, she shot three Bullets into it, wherewith he fell un­der the Cavalier that rid him. Al­phonsus could not save himself, in the fall, from a Sinew-strain, wherewith he was incommoded a long time. As soon as he was on the ground, he laugh'd and said calmly to the Dut­chess, You have dismounted me, Ma­dam, you have bore away the honour of the Combat.

There pass'd nothing more re­markable in this occasion; each one return'd Home; and this Expedition was immediately divulg'd at Court, where she was call'd no more the Dutchess, but the Handsom Cavalier. The Princess Christina, whom Iphi­genia [Page 71]had not pre-acquainted with her design of disguising her self, was extreamly surpriz'd when she heard what had pass'd. She was so impa­tient to hear the recital of the Ad­venture from the Dutchess's own mouth, that she went to her Lodg­ings to see her as soon as she had an incling of it. She immediately com­mended her for the greatness of her Soul, and her undauntedness, and at last conjured her to make her a Re­lation of the Action. She inform'd her of all the Circumstances of it, and was still discoursing with her on that subject, when Alphonsus, who was unwilling to be seen, entred the House by the Garden-gate, and as­cended by the back Stairs to the Chamber where they were. Corne­lia, who had seen him cross a little Court, run to acquaint the Princesses with his Arrival, so that Iphigenia had had time to hide her self behind the Hangings, from whence she could [Page 72]hear the Conversation of the Princess and Alphonsus her Brother. He su­spected that his Sister would have the curiosity to learn the History of the design'd Combat. He told it her like a Cavalier, he extoll'd at first Iphigenia's Courage, whom he after­wards call'd a Rash Woman. As he was beginning to grow hot upon her account, she could forbear no longer: She came out from the place where she was hidden, and said to him fierce­ly, ‘If it is true that I have wanted Conduct, it hath been because I have spar'd a Coward who did not deserve to live. But it is no mat­ter; it is more glorious to conquer ones Resentments than to let it break out. I have shew'd you, that I am sensible of the Injuries. If I have preserv'd your Life, when at the hazard of some light Reproa­ches, I could have taken it from you; I may say, that I have given you it to leave you time to repent [Page 73]of your Ingratitude, and that you may be punish'd as often as you see her whom you have so basely be­tray'd.’ Alphonsus, whom the un­expected presence of Iphigenia had not a little surpriz'd, was much trou­bled, to reply to the harsh things which she had said to him. He no more justifi'd himself, and was con­tented to reply to her, ‘Yes, Ma­dam, I owe you my life, and I be­lieve you have spar'd it, only to publish your generosity. I will own freely to you, that the Passion to which your Charms had given birth, hath not been able to brook a Rival. In effect, Madam, was it not a very hard thing, to have been able to boast of having been heard favourably by the most Accom­plish'd Princess of Europe, to have been congratulated a thousand times by all the Court for this Honour, to have acted nothing that I know of which hath blemished the profound [Page 74]Respect that is due to her divine Qualities, and nevertheless, to see ones self forc'd to give consent that another should enjoy a Beauty for which one had sigh'd all his Life. They are these Considerations, and this Pill so hard to swallow, that hath made me forget my self. Hence our breach of Friendship began: These in fine, are the Considerati­ons that have brought things to the extremity in which they are. What, interrupted Iphigenia, is it not then permitted to put a Lover to the Tryal? Ought you to take things in a wrong sence? My ways of indifference ought, instead of cooling, to animate your Pursuits. I pretended to flie, and you have immediately forsaken me. What Zeal, what Ardour, or rather what weak and feeble Passion, it is then when I seem'd to escape from you, that you should signalize your Love. You ought to pray, conjure, [Page 75]and fix by your Fidelity, my pre­tended Inconstancy: You ought to be more assiduous, to write Elegies, to sigh, and shed Tears.’

As there is nothing so Eloquent as a witty Woman in Love, Iphigenia had never appear'd to Prince Alphon­sus so Eloquent as that very day. After he had heard her, he threw him­self at her Feet, and with Tears in his Eyes, cry'd out, ‘Pardon, Divine Dutchess, pardon. You are inno­cent, and I am culpable; I will shut my Eyes to all that may make me question your Fidelity. How hap­py [Page 76]should I be, if you were so in­dulgent as to account of what is past as a Dream! How should I bless my Stars, if I could yet enter again into your favour! Com­mand, Madam, what punishment you please for the expiation of my Crime. There is none so rigorous, to which I will not submit: There is nothing that I will not under­take and perform, if you assure me of my Pardon.’ He spoke from the bottom of his heart, and his Sighs were such infallible Testimo­nies of it, that Iphigenia was molli­fied at the sight of his submissions. If he wept, she shed Tears; so that their common Grief became of that character which Violence renders dumb. She recover'd her self at last, and permitted him to pretend to be still belov'd.

The Quarrels of Lovers are oft­times Motives to, and Renewings of Love. Iphigenia, after this humble [Page 77]satisfaction from Alphonsus, lov'd him in appearance more tenderly than ever, at least he flatter'd himself so. He suffered himself to be so strongly pre-possess'd with this opinion, that there was not a day past, but he vi­sited her at the Princess her Sisters Lodgings, whither she went every day. Nevertheless, he was too much lost in her favour, to be so easily re­establish'd there. A Passion extin­guish'd, is seldom reviv'd in a witty Womans Heart, and those of that character hardly forget the resent­ment of Injuries once receiv'd. Al­phonsus his Treason had made a deep impression in Iphigenia's mind, and wrought unanimously with certain natural motions, which will grow more sensible in the conclusion to render him the Object of her Indiffe­rence.

Alphonsus was alone in the Kings Chamber, when News was brought to his Majesty, that the Duke of Al­varo [Page 78]who had withdrawn two days since to his Castle six Leagues from the City, died suddenly that very day. He thought that at the recital of this News he might judge of the Dutchess's Inclination on his account. He went to her Lodgings at the or­dinary time, where he found the Prin­cesses conferring together. He medi­tated sometime upon the Air that he should affect, and what course he should take to acquaint them with what he had newly learnt. Iphige­nia observing him more silent than ordinary, asked him, What cause could render him so melancholy, him whom all the World commended for his good humour. ‘I am trou­bled, replied he, at a Loss which all the Court should be sensible of, and which will, I make no question, af­flict you. The Duke of Alvaro is dead this morning in the Castle which bears his Name. I have learnt the News of it from the same [Page 79]Courrier which hath brought it to his Majesty.’

Whether Iphigenia had never had much inclination for that Lord, or that she would dissemble to make good a Fidelity which was but pre­tended to Prince Alphonsus, she seem'd not to be much troubled for his Death, she only said, That Count St. Angelo's Nephew, who was his on­ly Heir, would be a good Match, and that though he were not handsome, the great Estate which was fallen to him, would very much adorn him. That was all that was said then on the oc­casion of the Deceas'd, in whom Al­phonsus lost the greatest, but not the most to be fear'd, of his Rivals.

This Prince, who whilst the late Duke courted Iphigenia, with appro­bation had had all sort of access to her, fear'd that his Majesty, at the Queens sollicitation, might renew his former Prohibitions to him not to see her. He prevented her, and [Page 80]conjured his Goodness to permit him to render his Assiduities to that Dutchess, since he presum'd the Ad­miral the Dutchess's Father would no more reject his Alliance. The King having learnt that the Admiral left to his Daughter the absolute li­berty of the choice of a Husband, gratified Alphonsus's Request, so that he spent every Afternoon with his Mistriss.

About that time there arriv'd at the Court two young Princes from the Borders of Italy, Twins, very well made as to their Persons, and a­ble to make a great Figure. They made themselves presently eminent by their Magnificence, and took a pride in conversing with the most Witty of the Court-Ladies. The Dutchess, Alphonsus's Mistriss, was continually visited by the younger, who had as much Briskness, and as little Judgment, as his elder Brother, who courted the Princess Christina, [Page 81]had Wit and Fineness of Thought.

Although this young Prince fre­quented Iphigenia only to pass away some agreeable moments, without carrying his desires further, Alphonsus took Ʋmbrage at it, and labour'd un­der so strong a Jealousie, that he fell sick upon it. The Dutchess assur'd him, what she could, that she found nothing amiable in that Neopolitan; that onely complaisance, and the thoughts that he would quickly leave the Court, made her approve of his Visits. Her absence from the Prin­cess Christina's House, whither she went every day before the arrival of those Princes, and the whole After­noons which she gave to the Charms of that strange Prince's Conversation, made him fear all, from the familia­rity which begun to be between them. He proceeded so far, that one day he had the confidence to ask him, If he cast his Eyes on the Dutchess, and if he pretended to her Alliance? To [Page 82]whom the Prince answer'd. That he was not yet sufficiently acquainted with Madam Iphigenia, to discover whether she would receive Addresses of Love from him; but that he would attempt to push on his For­tune. This Answer threw Alphonsus into a fearful Melancholly. All things seem'd to him to concur to destroy him in the Breast of that Fair One; and he really believ'd, by the coldness which she express'd to him, that her Inclinations were only for the Stran­ger. That handsome Neopolitan judg­ing well by Alphonsus's Demand, who had ever Iphigenia's Name in his Mouth, that he courted this Dutchess, jested at it the very first Visit that he made her. He made a description to her of this Lover's Passion, under a young Lord's name with whom he said he was acquainted at Venice; and being intreated to tell his Name to the whole Company, he sooner hit upon that of his Mistriss than his, [Page 83]which he was never able to call to mind; which made the Dutchess tell him, That he should have imprinted it stronger in his mind; but that she believed the greatest part of the Hi­stories which were related of such A­mours, were a little fabulous. ‘I daily read some of this nature, pur­sued she, to which I can hardly give credit. Here the Neopolitan reply'd, It is true, Madam, that the Poets have seign'd such like Passions: But History will furnish us with an in­finity of undoubted Examples in the most famous Persons of Antiquity. Have we not seen one of the Cato's forget what he was, and enter into an Alliance with a Maid who had neither Riches nor Birth? Did not Pisistratus, the Athenian Tyrant, marry a Country Girl? What did not Pompey the Great for Flora? Did not Julius Caesar, after fifty Battles won, yield to the Charms of a Ser­virca? The History of the Death [Page 84]of Anthony, who lov'd Cleopatra, is sufficiently known to you. Did not the Conqueror of Asia love excessively that Campaspe whom for the overcoming of himself, he gave to the famous Painter Apelles? To what submis­sions did not the Charms Polioratia reduce Philip? without speaking of the impression which the Beauty of Ʋria's Wife made upon the Royal Prophets heart.’ Who does not— He was going on still to lay open the like Litanies, and as impertinently, when the Dutchess interrupting him, told him, ‘I know not what he has not done, nor the truth of these Hi­stories at the bottom; but of what I know, and of which I am fully convinc'd, is, that you have an ex­cellent memory, and that there is never a Pedant in all this Kingdom, that dare dispute with you the glo­ry of having heap'd up more words in his Head. Have you never heard that the like Passions are common [Page 85]to the Monomotapoez, and the Topi­nambri? added she. Are there Wo­men, Sir, as foolish as Men on this account?’ This young Lord not having the wit to find out the Dut­ches Raillery upon his inclination to shew his Reading, fell a laughing, and continued his Discourse by an innu­meration as fit to be laugh'd at. ‘Wo­men, said he, Madam, are not ex­empt from this Weakness; and if I remember, Phaedra lov'd Hippolitus even to excess: Atalanta, Hippoma­nes; Galathea, Atis; Egeria, Numa; Circe, Glauchus; Penelopo; Ʋlysses; Hypsicrata, Mithridates; Portia, Brutus; Julia, Pompey; Phocris, Ce­phetus.’ He stopt, and would have staid there, when Iphigenia rose up, took a Book which lay upon the Ta­ble, and having open'd it, said to him, ‘Listen, Sir; you know not yet all this Romance by heart, you forget that Semiramis lov'd Ninus excessive­ly; Biblis, her Brother; Mirra, her [Page 86]Father; Calphurnia, Appian; Ser­vilia, Lucullus; and others yet, with which these two Pages are full. But let us return, I beseech you, said she, to our first discourse. On what occasion have you made so many fine Remarks? On a Prince's occasion who adores you, reply'd he, and is horribly melancholy, because I take the freedom to come to you so often to pay you my Respects: On Alphonsus his occasion, the most passionate, and the most jealous of all your Lovers. How! pursued she, does that Prince love me at the cost of his Reason? I can hardly per­swade my self, that so prudent a Lord cannot put bounds to Passion. Let us experiment what you say, and to that end do you meet me to morrow at the Princess Christina's House, and put him insensibly upon this Chapter, and endeavour to railly him so fiercely that his Jealousie may serve for Divertisement to the [Page 87]Circle which we shall form. Do you make upon him the Epitaph of a Jea­lous man.’ This young Lord, who had not yet gained experience enough of the World, to foresee that he was go­ing himself to become the May-game of others, promised the Dutcaess to prepare himself upon that subject, and withdrew very well content with that Proposal, and with himself.

In the mean time Iphigenia went the same Evening to discourse with the Princess Christina, whom she in­treated to agree to a Comedy the next day at her house, where a young indiscreet Spark and a jealous Lover would appear upon the Stage: After that, she told her all that was pass'd, and ask'd her if the eldest of the two Brothers Manfeldi, made her no Pro­posals, as the Report went, ‘He has, reply'd the Princess, and such pressing ones, that it is almost no more time to act the Indifferent, without abso­lutely discouraging him; which I [Page 88]should be averse from doing, for the reasons of good Breeding, although I have but little inclination for him. When he sees me not, I am pestered with his Letters. He hath gained, through his liberality, all my Do­mesticks even to Cornelia, and all the World will implant tenderness in me for that young Prince. I acknow­ledge that he has Wit, and very sine Qualities: but in fine, there is not I know not what, which captivates; and I cannot believe that ever he will obtain me with my good will. When the Fancy takes me to marry, I will make choice of a Prince in whom nothing shall be wanting that may render him infinitely lovely to me, and worthy to be beloved eter­nally,’ I should be of your Tast, in­terrupted Iphigenia in this place, ‘if Marriage could charm me; and if I am not deceiv'd, I know a Prince who hath all that you can desire: He loves you, he adores you, and [Page 89]bears you so deep a Respect, that he durst not discover his Passion; and if it does bring him to you one day, it will not be till he shall see you re­solv'd to love.’ What is he, reply'd immediately the Princess, ‘can I love an unknown person?’ She had scarce made an end of speaking, when Al­phonsus entring the Chamber, diverted their discourse.

Iphigenia had no sooner perceiv'd him, than she told him laughing, ‘Poor jealous Creature, they endeavour al­ready at your Epitaph; you are a dead man, if we may believe the I­talian Cadet. You have a trouble­some Rival in him, who will give you no repose. You will be put to the Test to morrow. Prepare your self to sustain a thousand fine At­tacks, for the Enemy who is to en­gage you, has an infinite stock of Wit.’ Alphonsus taking the word here, said, ‘It is then. Madam, since he hath the honour to frequent you, [Page 90]that he hath gain'd it. You are ve­ry fit to have communicated it to him. Raillery apart, Prince, added Iphigenia, the youngest of our Neopo­litans will make you pass for a jealous Person. He came to me upon your account to relate a History the most silly in the World, which was follow­ed with very many other things yet more ridiculous. He is a young man just come from the University, of a good memory, but wanting yet dis­cretion and understanding. He is a presumptuous Novice, who thinks himself ignorant of nothing. In fine, he is a pretended Droll, who to mor­row will turn you into Ridicule. We will divert our selves with his Boyishness and Extravagances. Fail not to come hither to morrow after Dinner. You shall suffer him im­mediately to discourse, and lead him insensibly to the subject that I will put on foot. Pray, above all things, do not drive him to a nonplus, but [Page 91]rather seem to like of all that he shall offer to your consideration.’ Alphon­sus, to whom what was said, had re­stor'd his ordinary Tranquillity, pro­mis'd to execute all that was ordered him by the Dutchess. He was about to withdraw the most satisfied of Lo­vers, when the eldest of the Neopoli­tans sent to ask if the Princess Christi­na might be visited. He came too seasonably not to be admitted. Our two Princesses intreated Alphonsus to keep them company a little longer, but he begg'd them to dispense with him, under pretext of having business of the greatest consequence. The Ne­opolitan meeting him upon the Stair­case, complemented him, and told him, That he was very unhappy not to have come sooner, because he should have had the advantage of his Conver­sation for some time. Alphonsus made answer to his Civility, and intreated him to put off the Match to the mor­row, that some persons would form [Page 92]a Circle at his Sisters, where he should meet him without fail. Then they took leave of one another, after having contested to whom the upper hand should be given at parting.

The Lover of the Princess Christina had acquired Acquaintance sufficient with her, not longer to be oblig'd to all those superstitious Formalities which are observ'd at the meeting of Great Persons. At his entrance into the Chamber he saluted those Princes­ses, and addressing himself to her who was the Object of his Vows, he said to her, ‘Am I not unhappy, Madam, to have desired a hundred times to be in the Prin. Alphonsus's company at your Lodgings, and to have miss'd this day so narrowly the opportunity of satis­fying my desire. You will recover it to morrow, reply'd she with the same Familiarity, if you will meet here. Your Brother has promis'd to Regale us with the Recital of some Verses, and some other Gallantry.’

As this young Prince was very Elo­quent above all things on the subject of Love, the two hours which he spent in these Ladies company, he talked only of sympathy of motions of Tender­ness, of the means to please, and of the sweetness of a lovely Ʋnion. He with­drew very late, so that our intimate Princesses had very little time to en­tertain themselves upon the subject of this Lover. Things not being so ad­vanced, but they could discourse of him any other day at their leisure, I­phigenia embraced her Companion, and remounted her Coach.

She return'd next day to the Frin­cesses, where she was preceded by Al­phonsus, and follow'd a little time after by the two Neopolitans. The Dut­chess Iphigenia opened the Conversa­tion, in praying the younger of the two Brothers to keep his word, and to let them see the Epitaph which he had promis'd them on a jealous man. He defended himself sometime by a [Page 94]sort of affected modesty, from expo­sing Verses, of which they would with­out doubt suspect him to be the Author, and drew them at last out of his Poc­ket, after having said, That those that were infected with this Distemper, were doubly unhappy; because instead of mo­ving compassion, the were do the contra­ry, the Laughing-stock of the whole World.

These Verses seem'd, not to the Company ill turn'd, every one prais'd them; and Alphonsus, who knew him­self the Subject of them, gave them his approbation. Iphigenia pray'd the Author of the Epitaph, to give her all the sence which it contain'd; which he did more pedantickly than a Regent of a Colledge would have done. Al­phonsus remembring the Order he had receiv'd the day before, was impatient that Iphigenia would set a foot the Sub­ject upon which she was desirous to hear this Parrat discourse. That sub­tile Dutchess had no trouble to bring this discourse to the point she desired. She fell upon the Subject of Violent Passions, which gave Alphonisus occasi­on [Page 96]on to ask the Company for Examples of some Persons who had been violent­ly in love. Whereupon the Princess Christina taking the word, said, ‘That History could furnish him but with too many Amorous Men for Amo­rous Women, and so on the contra­ry. But that it seem'd as if Mar­riage were the Destroyer of Love, and 'twas to railly a Wife, but to say that she loved her Husband, and that she could hardly believe there were Women to be found who had preserv'd an ardent Love for their Husbands.’ The young Neopolitan, who was on fire to dis­play his Knowledge, added, ‘Anti­quity can furnish us with a very great number, and the last Ages are not unprovided. Without doubt, my Lord can produce some Exam­ples, said Alphonsus.’ Yes, my Lord, reply'd that young man, who had an itch to speak, ‘I will, for the satisfaction of the Company, relate [Page 97]upon that Subject those which my Memory shall furnish me with. Artemisa swallowed the Ashes of her Husband. Hypsicratea follow­ed the King her Husband to the Army, and fought till Death by his side. Not to dwell upon what Virgil has written of Dido and An­dromache; Panthaea the Wife of A­bradates, kill'd her self upon the dead Body of her Husband. Phi­la the Wife of Demetrius, that King having lost his Life in a Battle, poysoned her self. And not to go so high, does not our Age afford us a Wife who passionately lov'd her Husband, in that Isabella, Prin­cess of Salem, who not being a­ble to obtain leave to follow him to the Army, writ to him, that there passed not a Night but she embraced him, and tasted the sweetest Pleasure with him: That she made Vows for the changing [Page 98]the Days which she employ'd in weeping, into Nights, that she might always enjoy his sweet Em­braces. I perceive that this last Wife lov'd a little for Interest;’ (interrupted the eldest Prince, who made a sign to his Brother to con­clude, judging those kinds of Narra­tions Pedantick) ‘and I believe that all Wives who have amiable Hus­bands, resemble her.’ The Histo­rian held his peace, and 'twas then that Alphonsus burst out a laugh­ing, which put him out of counte­nance. This young Prince taking his laughing for an Affront which he did him, ask'd him if he believ'd not the truth of those Histories? whereupon he answered him, That he had likewise read them all in a Book of Fables, except the last, which shew'd more the Character of a voluptuous Wife, than of one transported by a virtuous Passion. [Page 99]This younger Brother said nothing else, but that Truth would always pass for a Lye, from a Rivals mouth. Alphonsus, who understood well e­nough what he drove at, pray'd him to explain himself. But the prudent Princesses fearing that the Dispute growing hot, it might have dan­gerous consequences, rose up; which made them thereupon break off, and gave them notice it was time to with­draw.

The Princesses being left alone, I­phigenia addressing her self to her dear Companion, said to her, ‘My God! Madam, how self-conceited is this young Neopolitan? How full of himself? Is his Brother's Wit as ill turn'd? He is more moderate, reply'd she, but his Con­versation is somewhat duller, it is not lively; and how well made so­ever he be outwardly, he has not the Secret to please me. But now [Page 100]you put me in mind on't, What is the unknown Lover whom you now and then discourse to me of? If you will conceal his Name, draw me his Picture at least; for I doubt not but you have seen him. With­out question, Madam, reply'd I­phigenia, and I will satisfie your curiosity thereupon. Know then, in the first place, that he is born a Prince, and that he hath been suf­ficiently favour'd by Fortune. He is young, and has never felt true Love for any but your self. He loves you, he adores you, he stu­dies your Humour, he knows what Temper you are of, and he knows you as well as himself. He has Wit enough, which is sparkling, lively, gay, and loves not trifles. He is generous and liberal: He has already given proof of his Cou­rage in a single Duel. He has a great Soul, and is as much an E­nemy [Page 101]to Cowardize as Quarrel­ling. As to his Person, although he hardly is of a middle size, he is well set, and has a good Carriage: He is a little long Visag'd, his Nose a little turn'd up; he has black Eyes, large and even with his Head; and above all, passionate. His Mouth is little, his Eye-brows and Hair of a bright Chesnut, and of an admirable gloss. This is some­what near his Picture; to which I ought to adde, to turn it to the light, that he has very much Love and Tenderness; that you are the onely Object of his Vows; that he sighs continually at the fight of your Charms, and that the admi­ration of your Divine Qualities, make him so fearful, that he has not dar'd to declare his Passion to you. You draw me a Picture so charming in the Graces, that di­stinguish this unknown Lover, in­terrupted [Page 102]the Princess, that I can­not but give the Lye to Poets, who maintain that an unknown Object cannot excite Motions of Love. I love this Prince; and since we may speak freely together, the favour I have to ask of you, is, to inspire him with Courage, that I may have the satisfaction to see him speedily. I will endeavour, reply'd Iphigenia, to raise him a­bove that respectful Fearfulness which retains him; and I will as­sure you, that to morrow he shall have the honour to entertain you in Person, or by Letter. You can­not, added the Princess, oblige me more, than to procure me one of his Letters, if you cannot make him resolve to come to see me. I shall judge by his Writing, if that Prince has Sentiments as tender as you have told me. To morrow then, Madam, you shall hear of [Page 103]him,’ said the Dutchess, retiring her self.

The Picture of so accomplish'd a Lover, made such an impression on the Princess's Spirit, that she was employ'd with it all Night, inso­much that the eldest of our Neopoli­tans, who fail'd not a day of giving her marks of his Love, presenting himself in the Morning at her Toi­let, found her thoughtful, and very cold. This young Prince having never observ'd in her any inequality of Humour, was extreamly surpriz'd to meet with so much indifference: But as a Lover always flatters him­self, he thought that the Princess would try his Love; which made him tell her, That in her melancholy Fit, and her gay Humour, she was e­qually amiable.

The first Coldness put not this Prince in trouble. He examin'd him­self upon what he might have done, [Page 104]which was displeasing to that Fair Ones Eyes, and thinking himself guilty of nothing, he believ'd that the day following might change her dis­position.

In the mean time Iphigenia, who was engag'd to bring a Letter to the Princess, writ one, which she caus'd to be transcrib'd by a young Gentle­man who div'd not at all into the Commerce of her Pleasures, and who judg'd only that the Dutchess had a mind to divert her self. The Letter contain'd what follows.

Iphigenia found the Princess in the expectation of the Letter, whereby she should understand the Sentiments of her unknown Lover. Having re­ceiv'd it, she read it with an incre­dible satisfaction. It had such an Effect upon her Spirit, that she be­came so impatient, and so curious to see him who was the Author of it, that nothing could entertain her so agreeably, as the repetition of the Promises which Iphigenia made her of making him resolve to come to kiss her hands. She believ'd she [Page 107]ought not to answer this Letter. She imagin'd that the Dutchess, who would not divert her from her Love, was but too capable to assure that unknown Prince, of the esteem that she her self had made her conceive for him. Wherefore she contented her self to pray her to animate his Re­solution, to flatter him with some hopes, and to perswade him to become as bold as passionate.

The young Neopolitan, impatient to try if the Princess were on his ac­count what she had been the day be­fore, came to ask if he might have the honour to visit her. But she was so employ'd in thinking on the Billet which she had receiv'd; that she sent him word she was indispos'd. Although this Answer was an ill O­men to him, he nevertheless did not dispair of his Destiny, since he saw not any Person haunt her House, whom he might fear to be his Ri­val. [Page 108]He return'd the next day to the Charge, and had the freedom to entertain the Princess in discourse; whose Answers, for the most part, shew'd absence of mind. He ventur'd to tell her, That he believ'd there was some Accident befallen her, which carried away her Thoughts. But he could not draw any thing from her; onely that she was taken up with considering with her self whe­ther having made choice of an Ob­ject she could be capable to love al­ways.

This was an Enigma to our young Lover, I whom she intreated to leave her some days at liberty. He went away overwhelm'd with the most cruel Melancholy that can be ima­gin'd, and was going to abandon himself, to his despair, when he met an old Chaplain of his Nation, to whom he discovered all the Secrets of his Soul. He pray'd him to assist [Page 109]him with his Councel, and ask'd him if he knew what he might do to please. This old Fox, who had almost the direction of all the Con­sciences of the Court, had experience enough to be able to give him some advice. He asked him first, if he had sufficiently studied the Humour of her whom he lov'd, to have dis­covered if his manner of Apparel, and his Trimming pleas'd her; and above all things, if his Garniture were of the colour which she lov'd, or was such that it might discover to her his Disposition. And he an­swering, That he had follow'd in that onely the Mode, and Chance; the other reply'd to him, That those sort of things, when we have fine Qualities besides, have a great pow­er to shake the resolution of a Maid; whom the least Trifle may surprize. To instruct himself in the virtue of different Colours, this Prince led [Page 110]the Chaplain into the Kings Garden, where, in four or five turns of an Alley, he learnt from him the mean­ing of the several sorts of Symbols. See here how that old man explain'd them to him.

White, which is the most simple of all Colours, bears the character of Purity, Innocence, and Sincerity.

Black shews Perseverance, because it cannot be defac'd by any other Colour.

Red denotes Revenge. It frights a Rival.

Brown, and all dark Colours, re­present Patience, and a serious Tem­per.

Carnation represents, extreamly well, the Grief which we feel for a lost thing, which we hope to reco­ver.

Aurora Colour is a sign of Joy.

The clear Violet Colour, the Gre­delin, and the Peacock Colour, is pro­per to inspire Love; they call it the Livery of Venus.

Azure is a Token of Fidelity, be­cause it corresponds to Heaven, which appears always the same, when it is not obscur'd by Clouds.

Grey or Ash Colour, expresses Me­lancholy or Sadness.

Green has always represented Hope, as the Fillemot Despair.

Our sad Lover minded not the old man had finish'd. He interrup­ted him here, and ask'd how he figu­red Indifference and Despight. ‘By a mixture of all Colours, reply'd he. Good, reply'd the Prince. But at last, before I make use of this last Symbol, which of these Colours will suit me best, the Carnation, the clear Violet, the Blue, or in fine, which of all the others? It is not [Page 112]very easie for me, reply'd the Cha­plain, to satisfie you positively there­upon. The choice which you ought to make, depends very much upon circumstances, which you must have examined before. A Lover ought not only to consult himself and his Passion, but he ought to know perfectly the Tem­per of her whom he would please. White, as that which is mingled with it, sympathices with the hu­mour of Phlegmatick Persons. The melancholy Ladies love Black, and all which tends towards that Co­lour. Red, and all that comes near that Colour, is seen with pleasure, by those in whom Choler predo­minates: And Sanguine Comple­xions regard willingly Blue, Carna­tion, and Gredelin Aurora Colours, and all that are clear and shine. What! must one make all these observations, added the Prince? As [Page 113]far as I see, one must be a good Phi­losopher, to please. Without questi­on, reply'd the Old man, one must be very perfect in Physick, or other­wise instead of gaining the glory of having pleas'd, one is expos'd to the discontent of being turn'd into Ridi­cule. But, Sir, reply'd he, if the Princess for whom you sigh, hath a good Wit, as I question not, it is pro­bable that if she hath look'd on you favourably heretofore, and that she is grown cold, without your having given her cause, you have a Rival. And 'tis what may put you to some trouble to discover. If you are not too scrupulous, I can shew you a Person, who without doubt can in­form you. Is he a Sorcerer, inter­rupted the Prince? He passes for such a one, continued the Old man; but I, who believe it not, I look upon him as a man who through the know­ledge that he has in Natural Causes, can with the help of certain Sands, [Page 114]who have receiv'd the illustration of certain Stars, in a certain situation, and under a certain Aspect, to smooth certain pieces of Earth with melted Flint-stones, which by virtue of cer­tain blasts, can render Objects at a di­stance present; and above all, repre­sent all sorts of Letters, which have not been torn. So many Certain­ties, said the Prince, laughing, pro­mise me a very uncertain knowledge. Nevertheless, pray shew me the Lodgings of this great Philosopher.’ The Old man having inform'd him where he dwelt, he went thither all alone the same Evening, where he re­ceiv'd the satisfaction which I am go­ing to relate. This Magician having led him, without Light, into a Cave, and having forthwith asked him if he were afraid, and the Prince having an­swered with assurance, that he was not, he drew a Circle with Cole, in the middle of which he plac'd him. Having after that, drawn out a certain [Page 115]dark piece of Earth out of a hole which he enlighten'd with certain Ashes; and after some intelligible words, which frighted the Prince a little, who wou'd have been very wil­ling not to have been there, he made appear to him, through that transpa­rent Body, the Letter which the Prin­cess his Mistriss had receiv'd; which he read from end to end. And this was all the knowledge which he could receive from the Magician, whom he satisfied according to his desire.

He had learnt but too much for his Repose; his Troubles increas'd. The Idaea of an unknown Rival, ad­ded to his despair. He return'd to see the Princess, and found her still the same; he gained all her Servants: he turn'd Spy himself; he posted Sen­tinels all round the House, and could not discover him who disputed his Love with him; sometimes he is hot, and sometimes fearful. He becomes a Prey to a deadly Melancholy, and [Page 116]has recourse again to Magick. He re­quests a Charm, and gives his consent and all things necessary to the compo­sition of a Pomatum, which he designs to convey by stealth upon the Prin­cesses Toilet, from whence he took a­way for this purpose a little Pot which he caus'd to be fill'd with the following Ingredients, viz. the Scra­pings of Skins, the Cuttings of Hoofs, and Hairs imperceptibly cut off, burnt, and calcin'd with some drops of a certain Liquor, the whole at last mingled and incorporated with Sope, and common sweet Powders; which Pot he cunningly substituted in the place of the other, and whose vertue had no Effect.

Alphonsus on his side agreeably per­secuted Iphigenia, who upon the great change of her outward Dispositions, chang'd also her Inclinations, and en­tertain'd him with fair hopes, whilst she endeavour'd to inspire the Prin­cess with Love for the Ʋnknown. She [Page 117]made her from day to day more ex­quisite descriptions of that Princess's Passion, of which she express'd her self to be sensible, when at last over­come by her Prayers, she engag'd to bring him to her on the morrow in the Evening. The Princess impatient to see the Cavalier, conjur'd her by the Union that was between them, to procure her the satisfaction of see­ing him, and promis'd her, provided he was such as she had describ'd him, to hearken favourably to his Pas­sion.

As soon as Iphigenia was return'd home, whether she had carried Cor­nelia, she sent her to seek for the best Taylor of the Court, whom she made to take measure of her, and to whom she gave private orders to make her a magnificent Habit, with its Orna­ments, by Eight a Clock the next Night exactly, and to bring her choice of all things necessary to equip a Ca­valier for a Ball. The Taylor ac­quitted [Page 118]himself with an admirable diligence of his Commission. The Dutchess sent all the Equipage to Cor­nelia, whom she had prepar'd to re­ceive it, and went to dress her self in her Chamber, from whence she sent to demand if a strange Prince might be admitted to make his Comple­ments to Madam. The Princess, who expected, according to Iphigenia's promises, an unknown Lover, sent to meet this Prince; she was much sur­priz'd to see him enter alone, belie­ving that the Dutchess would have bore him company. She advanced some steps to receive him, made a Seat be given him, and ordered her Attendants to withdraw, to enjoy all alone the pleasures of this new Lovers Conversation, who began thus: ‘You see, Madam, the Person that the Dutchess Iphigenia has dis­cours'd of to you, according to what she has told me; she has made you a description of me which scarce [Page 119]resembles me. 'Tis the Effect of a bountiful Inclination, to which I shall be oblig'd all my Life. As e­loquent as she has been upon the subject of my Passion, she has ne­vertheless not amplified it, it is such that I my self who feel it, cannot describe it to you.’

She had not finish'd speaking, when the Princess, who knew her again under her disguise, reply'd to her thus: ‘I have always well presum'd, Sir, that you were a Railleur who sought to divert your self. But I should have been troubled to per­swade my self that you had been desirous to push your Raillery so far. It is no matter; I find you lovely, and I am very ready to se­cond your Passion. Give me your hand, Princess, said the Dutchess then, and promise me that you will keep your word. The season of the Carnival, which invites us to Joy, leaves us but just time enough [Page 120]to execute the Thing. I intreat your company to morrow at the Comedy which I will cause to be presented before all the Court, and my Lord your Father. I will ap­pear such as I am, and in the Con­clusion we will finish the Ceremo­nies of our Marriage.’

The Princess, who imagin'd no­thing loss than what hapned, believ'd always that the Propositions which Iphigenia had made her, on the score of an unknown Lover, were not feign'd; that she would one day de­clare what he was, and that in the mean while the time of Shrovetide would permit extraordinary Diver­sions. This made her give her Hand; pursuant to which, Iphigenia went to give order for all that was necessary for the celebration of their Nuptials on the morrow. She went to the King's Apartment, the Queen's, and all the Princes Lodgings, to pray them to honour that solemn Feast; [Page 121]who expressed themselves to be well satisfied with the divertisements which the Dutchess would procure them All the Court were at the Comedy, and afterward went to the Dutchess's House, where there was a splendid Supper provided.

Iphigenia travesty'd en Cavileer, and the Princess Christina, receiv'd there, with the consent of them Maje­sties, all the Complements of the Court. The Articles of Contract were exhibited after the Regale▪ All the Court, after the King's Example, and the Princess's Father himself sub­scrib'd it. The rest of the common Formalities were observ'd. Our Lo­vers mutually plighted their Faith to each other, and the Action was fi­nish'd, at which the eldest of the Neo­politans and Alphonsus, shew'd all their good Humour.

The Dutchess Iphigenia and the Princess her Spouse, bore the quality of King, and the other Queen at the [Page 122]Ball which followed. During the three hours which it continued, a wit­ty Poet met them, presented them with an Epithalamium, whose Com­position was approv'd of. It was propos'd to conduct our new-married People to Bed. The King accompa­ny'd them to the Chamber which had been prepar'd for them, at the door of which, it was believ'd that the last Scene would have a conclusion. They were notwithstanding undress'd, and the Princess tyr'd as much with Dan­cing, as with the other Exercises of the Day, put her self to Bed with I­phigenia, who instructed her with ad­miration in what she was ignorant of till then. The Curtains have robb'd me of the rest. What? What we may believe as a Truth is, that the Bride was very much surpriz'd to find that Nature, liberal to Iphigenia, had indow'd her with both Sexes; that our Illustrious Hermaphrodite had ob­tain'd from the bounty of a laudable [Page 123]Stock, what the weakness of a tender Age had scarce made her sensible of; that the Court imform'd of the Fact, at the sollicitation of the Bridegroom's Father, who was very sure of things, took all that had been done for sub­stantial and authentick; and that in fine, by the Alliance of this Gallant Hermaphrodite, Alphonsus had his Sister for his Rival.