The History of Scanderberg.

YOU know my Mother was Daugh­ter to the Prince of the Triballians, and that John Castriot my Father did Reign in Epirus, and Albania; he was envy'd for his Valour by Amurat, who rendered himself Formidable in Greece; after he had been the Terror in Asia; Castriot forced to yield to the swift­ness of his prosperous Fortune, made Peace with him, and sent my three Brothers and me for Hostages, to A­drianople. Vorsana my Mother, keeping still by her self four Daughters, to wipe off her Tears: She expected much from my Birth, by reason of a Dream, which she had when she was Big of me; She Dreamed she was Delivered of a Serpent, so great; that he covered all Epirus, his head did reach to Turkey, which he swallow'd up, and he did dip his Tail in the Sea towards Venice. Ca­striot having heard the Relation of this Dream from Vorsona, assured her she should bring forth a Man fatal to the Turks, and useful to Christendom. Ne­vertheless I was delivered into the hands of the first, Nothing but the [Page 14] regard of the safety of his Dominions, could ever have brought him to this Resolution, I being but eight years old, all my Brothers were Elder than I; this Age exposed me to the Ceremonies of the Turks, wherein they changed my Name, that was George, into that of Scanderberg, which is as much in the Turkish Tongue, as Alexander Lord, concerning my Brothers, their Riper Age free'd them from this Violence.

The Sultan who had a good Opinion of my youth, took all the imaginable care, to make me an Honest Gentle­man: The unfortunate Aradin was made my Governour, and never man performed his Duty, with more Zeal and Diligence. But tho' his kind usage made me forget, that I was beholding for it to a Slave, yet my Condition, and the first Impressi­ons of Religion, which I had received, could never be blotted out of my Memory.

I shall not relate to you what I did, from eight years, to sixteen. I learn'd all Exercises necessary, both for the Body and the Mind; and Aradin did all his Endeavours to inspire me with the love of Glory and Vertue. The Em­perour [Page 15] who took some delight in my Sight and Conversation, seem'd always pleased with me: I had the advantage of Signalizing my self in his presence, in the first War wherein I was allowed to fight; and kind Fortune waiting every where upon me, being yet but nineteen years old, I was made a Sangiac by Amurat, that is to say, a Leader, and I was trusted by him, with the Command of five thousand Horses; a little while after, I was nominated a Bassa, which was a Dignity that made the Sangiacs inferiour to me. I confess, my Advancement was very sudden, but the Sultan, who foresaw I should prove useful to him, had no re­gard to my Youth.

In this pass I acquired more Glory in Natoly. I was feared by the Enemies, loved by the Turks, and esteemed by the Emperour; and I can hardly re­member, without Blushing, that after some important Victories, where cer­tainly Amurat had had a great share, he would call me his Right Arm, his Heart, his Eye, and the Defender of his Estates. I enjoy'd all the sweet Pleasures of Liberty, because I was look'd upon as a Turk. My Brothers [Page 16] Slavery would sometimes vex me, but seeing that they did not suffer much by it, and being besides resolved to make my self famous for the future, that was not able to put a stop to my Ambition.

Heaven punished me for this hard­ness of Heart, and permitted that the Cares of Love, should have their share in my Heart, as well as those of War: Nay, should wholly possess it. I had not gone for a long while near the Seraglio of the Women, and my Age did deprive me of those Caresses, I was wont to receive from the Loveliest Sultanesses: I felt in my heart, neither Aversion nor love for their Acquain­tance. And in this quiet State of in­difference, I spent in some Exercises very pleasant to the Emperour, that leasure we injoy'd at Adrianople: Those that were then most in favour with him, were Musselman, Bostangi Bassi, or great Gardener, Mustapha, Bassa of the Sea, and Orcan, the now Grand Visier. They possess'd infinite Riches, and stately Palaces, and their Families lived in great Splendour. Musselman prevailed over the others, because in all times and in all places, he had a free access to [Page 17] the Sultan, his Closet, his Counsel, and his Gardens were equally opened to him: Proud of these advantages, he entertain'd other Courtiers so coldly, that he seem'd to despise them, but be­cause I was loved by Amurat, and he desired to keep in his Favour, I did not find the same reception as the rest. I had a Natural aversion against him, but I had learnt Dissimulation, in a Court, where that Art was so ne­cessary.

About this time there came to Adria­nople a Tartar Prince, whom Curiosity had brought thither, the like man had never been seen before, he was of a prodigious height; being a foot taller than any of the rest of the Turks. Tho' he was Proud, and Rude, yet he was received like a Prince, by Amurat; it was reported he was famous over all Tartary for his Exploits; and he had never fought without Victory; proud of his own Reputation, he little regar­ded others civility; unfortunately for him, he contradicted me in any thing that I said; we were used to talk about Warlike Matters, and one day he was so presumptuous, as to tell me that the Victory over twenty such Men as me, [Page 18] would be no difficult attempt for him; being impatient, I defied him to fight me in a Duel, in the Emperour's sight. The Tartar was amazed at my boldness, and accepted of the Challenge: Amurat, who feared the loss of my Life, opposed it: But I craved his leave so instantly, that at last he consented to it.

The seeming unequality between my Adversary and me, affrighted all those who loved me, and I was likely the only man who was not alarmed: The Field for the Fight, was appointed in a spacious piece of ground, which lay over against the Seraglio. The Emperour gave leave to the Sultanesses, and Slaves, to get upon the Towers, to see this Specta­cle; and other Women, whose Houses look'd upon that place, had the same License.

At last the hour appointed for the Fight came, and we appeared before a numberless multitude of Spectators. The Tartar began to jeer me bitterly, for my Age and Weakness, but it was not long before I punished him for it, and my blows were so fortunate, that after an hours Resistance, he expired in the sight of all the Assembly. There were never heard so many Acclama­tions [Page 19] of joy among the Turks, as after my Victory; they esteem'd it a pro­digy, and I was lookt upon with great Respect: I carry'd the Giant's Sword to the Emperour's Feet, who imbraced me, and tho' some Persons envy'd me for the Honour of that day, those that were the Wisest, followed easily Amu­rat's Example.

The Tartars took away their Master's Corps, of which they disposed as they pleased; and for my part, I followed the Sultan to the Seraglio; the Prince Mahomet, his eldest Son, had received from Heaven some eminent Parts, which had been cultivated to a great advan­tage; we lived very freely between us, and tho' one could not see that store of sincere Friendship, which tyes closely two hearts together, yet we were not in­different one to another; he praised my Action, and civily congratulated me for it.

That same night to avoid the Crowd, of which I was already weary, we went together, at the Moon-Shine, upon the Sea Shore, just behind the Seraglio of the Women; after we had walk'd a long while, in a very pleasant place, incompassed one way by the River, and [Page 20] towards the Seraglio with a Hedge so thick, that it rendred the Gardens more inaccessible, than any strong wall. We were ready to retire, when a Char­ming Voice, Sung distinctly these words in the Greek Tongue.

The sound of this Voice pass'd through my Ears, to my very Heart. I had never felt before any tender motions, and my free and indifferent Soul was capable of any impression. That! Song was repeated many times: Mahomet hearkned to it with as much attention as my self, we knew well there were in the Seraglio many Fair Sultanesses, and Lovely Slaves, whom Europe, and Asia, had offered; but they were altogether unknown to us: One hath never the more Priviledge in the Seraglio, for being either the Sultan's Son, or his Favourite; for their jealousie is so careful, in hiding what they design for their Pleasures, that unless kind For­tune [Page 21] favours a man, he can never come to know it.

The Prince, and I having heard this Charming Voice, we knew the person who had sung it, was not alone, because another began to speak in Greek, but with a Barbarous pronunciation, Does that Song concern you, said she to ano­ther, and have you lost your Heart in this place, where we see but un­pleasant Objects? Suppose what you said was true; answered another, it would be a hard matter for my Heart to ex­plain its thoughts in a Song; you have desired me to Sing, and I have done it: How happy are you, Arianissa, to keep your Heart so free, and represent anothers Distemper, without fear of being infected with it; how happy are you, but how unfor­tunate is Selimana? You are the Object of the Sultan's most tender Affection, answe­red Arianissa, and that is the only thing that may well satisfie you, in this Ever­lasting Retirement. What can you desire more, Madam, since you are the Sove­raign Mistress of him, who can dispose of all? Tho' Ambition is well pleased with that advantage, continued Selimana, sighing, a Soul as nice as mine cannot be contented; and if you had ever been in Love, you [Page] would quickly apprehend my meaning. Alas, Madam, I have had so many Misfortunes in my Life, that I willingly renounce to that Experiment, reply'd Arianissa, with a Charming Sweetness; well, interrupted Selimana, since you do not know the cause of my suffering, at least do not condemn it. A power which I cannot resist, forces me to utter this Secret without blushing. I love, I love, Arianissa, the Prince Scanderberg, and his Victory over the Tartar, is not the only one he has got to day; he has seem'd to my Eyes as Lovely, as he was formi­dable to his Enemy, and that short space of time, has assured to him the possession of my heart for ever.

I cannot relate to you Selimana's Kindness without blushing: But you must be acquainted with it, that you may the better understand how ama­zed the young Sultan and I were. I was loved without knowing by whom, and such a man as I might have been well pleased with the Idea of this Adven­ture; but besides that, Selimana seem'd too passionate to deserve my Heart; she was a Sacred Object for me, being the beloved Sultaness of Amurat, I was more taken with Arianissa's Modesty, and tho' I did not wish her so passionate [Page] as the other, I could have desired she had not been insensible.

Some noise made them retire; the Prince drew nearer me, when he heard them no longer, and clasping his Arm about my Neck, whatever good Opinion you entertain of your self, said he, did you think, Scanderberg, that Mars, and Love, should intend to bestow their Fa­vours upon you at the same time? My Lord, reply'd I smiling, if we had more Freedom at Adrianople, I would tell you that this adventure is but a sham. You see, added Mahomet, that there is nothing but what is Natural in it; the hour, the place, and the person who spoke, in a word, all things witness your good Fortune, and you have nothing to do, but to rejoice. Alas, My Lord, said I, though my Heart was susceptible enough, to fall so easily in Love, I should never forget what I owe to the Sultan. Selimana may be a charming Per­son, what she said may flatter me, but A­murat is Emperor, and worthy of my Loy­alty. You think, reply'd Mahomet, that a great Zeal for his Passion, will make me betray yours. No, My Lord, inter­rupted I something hastily, I know you are generous, and discreet, and I speak what I think. We went then into [Page] the Seraglio, and we parted at the same time.

I did never go to Bed without seeing Aradin; that day pleased with the Honours I had received, he did not fail to be in my Chamber; as because I had no acquaintance in the Seraglio of the Women, and all things were changed there, since my Infancy, I asked him several questions, which surprised him. I inquired of him concerning Selimana; he answered me, that she was always the dearest Object of Amurat's Love, who had preferred her to all things, and he drew her Picture with great care­fulness: After that, I asked him about Arianissa; and my Curiosity about a Slave, who probably was unknown to me, seem'd the more surprising to him. I don't know, Scanderberg, said he to me, what is your Design, but I can assure you, that among all the Women in the World, I think there is none more Lovely, than Arianissa; with a perfect Beauty she possesses a wonderful Wit and Virtue, and I cannot but wonder, that the Emperour has not yet cast his Eyes upon her: I hearken'd to Aradin, with a trouble which I had never felt before; what ever he said about Arianissa, were [...] [Page 25] many pleasant wounds to my heart, and I may say, I was in Love, before I had seen whom I loved; after a long Conversation, I thought I could not hide it from Aradin; he was afflicted at it, and knowing how dear Selimana was to the Sultan, and his jealous, and violent Temper, he used his utmost care to make me understand, how dangerous to me such a concurrence would prove. I assured him, I had no disposition to love Selimana, however I discovered not my thoughts concer­ning Arianissa, but passed the whole night in fancying her to my self, as lovely, as the Eunuch had described her; I found not my self the following day, as I had been hitherto; is it possible that Arianissa should be pre­possessed with some tender Inclinati­on, said I sighing, and can my Heart, which she takes from me, hope any comfort from her? I had no sooner ut­tered those words, but I found them unworthy of a man, whose only Am­bition was to be great. I knew that violent Passions were look'd upon as a weakness, and my Love for an un­known Object, seem'd to me strange and worthy; nevertheless, it was for­midable, [Page 26] and I could not conquer it as I had done the Tartar.

I was forced to open my Heart to Aradin, who condemned me to think never upon her, since I could not hope to have any Conversation with her.

There happen'd then an extraordina­ry thing at Adrianople, and which is sel­dome seen among the Turks: The Sultan of Egypt had sent a magnificent Embassie; and some rich Presents to Amurat, who to shew his Grandure to Strangers, in the seat of his Empire, gave them a publick Audience, that day the Women went from their Se­raglio, to that of the Sultan's adorned with the most precious things the East could afford, Selimana, the beloved, as I told you before, appeared shining with her Natural Beauty, and abun­dance of Ornaments; She was fol­low'd by a hundred, in the same Splen­dour, and by an infinite number of young Slaves, dressed with less Art, but certainly worthy of another Conditi­on: To make this Spectacle seem the greater, they wore golden Chains, and they had been loaded with Essences, and Baskets full of Flowers, which [Page 27] they spread in a great Hall, at whose end, the Sultanesses sat upon rich Cu­shions, these Slaves stood round about them, and the Emperour sate upon a Splendid Throne, whose steps were oc­cupy'd by his chiefest Officers.

After this manner, Thopia, we saw the Secret Court of Amurat, when the Turks and Egyptians had a free access to the Hall. Selimana sate in a higher place than the others, and her Beau­ty, as well as her Rank, distinguish'd her from the rest: But among the Slaves who were round about her, the young Arianissa neglected, and blushing, for appearing before so many wit­nesses, in a condition so unworthy of her, was remarkable, in spight of her self, for her Charms. I could not know her as being Arianissa; but my heart took notice of her, as of an Object which it was resolved to adore. And ac­cording to what I had conceived of her, upon Aradin's Relation, I wished Aranissa, and that Slave might be the same; upon that account I abandoned my self to the Passion that possesses me, and which will never end.

I shall not relate to you what was done there, having taken no notice of [Page 28] the Ceremony; Arianissa only had all my looks and my attention, neither did I mind whether Selimana cast her eyes upon me, as caring little for her Fa­vour.

I ran to Aradin as soon as the Sulta­nesses and the Slaves were retired. Love which first had engaged me by the adven­ture I had had with Mahomet, made me feel now all its power: The Eu­nuch was amazed at the violence of my Passion, and was almost angry. My dear Scanderberg, said he to me, you know me well enough, not to question the sincerity of my advices; what can you hope from an affection, whose consequences must needs be unfortunate? Fortune condemns Arianissa to be a Slave for ever; will you confine the Glory of your life in an hopeless Love? And don't you deserve to be blamed for the unreasonableness of the design? I confess, Arianissa is a Char­ming Person, and according to all proba­bility her Birth is not mean: But what can you hope from her as long as she is in the Seraglio, where all things breathe only for Amurat's Pleasure? Can you fetch out Arianissa in spight of so many Per­sons, who watch always to satisfie the Em­perour's jealousie? And will you not deserve [Page 29] his hatred, for breaking these Laws, the least violation of which deserves Death; reflect upon your self, Scanderberg, for­get Arianissa, who can ruine you. Consider you are a Prince designed for extraordinary things, and covered already with a Glory which you ought to preserve.

This Discourse of Aradin, which his affection created, confounded my rea­son, but did not perswade my heart: My Love for Arianissa was too strong, and it could not be prevailed on by his Advices, no more than by my own Re­flections; he perceived well my sad Condition, but seeing it was impossible to alter my mind, he exhorted me not to rule my Conduct according to my blind Passion, but to have a special re­gard to Amurat's Severity, and to take my measures accordingly.

I felt all the griefs of Love, as soon as I knew Arianissa; the impossibility of seeing her was to me a most cruel pain, despair often makes us slight those things we desire to obtain, but the difficulties I met with here, did but in­flame me the more.

As if the Obstacles before mentioned, bad not been enough, there arose against me three formidable Rivals. The Em­perour, [Page 30] who had never before look'd upon Arianissa, found her so Beautiful the day of the Publick Audience of the Egyptians, that Selimana seemed to him less Charming. Prince Mahomet, who had not till then entertain'd any other thought, but the fear of the common Fate of the Princes of his Blood, and who had carried himself so well, to­wards the Sultan, as not to give him any just cause of Anger or Jealousie, paid to Arianissa's Beauty, what was due to her from all tender Hearts. And Mus­selman, who ought to have rested satis­fy'd with the amorous intrigues, which either his Inclination or good Fortune had procured him, look'd upon her with the same eyes as we did.

I knew not for a long while their thoughts, and I was very careful to hide mine. Mahomet became melancholy; and for my part, I loved Solitude so much, that I could scarce cast my eyes upon those things which formerly had so much pleased me; we neglected our Warlike Exercises, we minded no more those Pleasures which we had been so desirous of before, and Solitude was the only thing we sought after: All admissi­on in the Seraglio of the Women being [Page 31] forbidden to us, we were continually in the passages to it; where ever my Love guided me, I did meet there Ma­homet: Musselman was happier than we, his Employ, whose Authority is almost unlimited, did give him access where we could not go, and we may think he made use of his advantages.

As I was used to spend most part of the day and night about those places, which hide Arianissa from my sight, I did sometimes forget my self there. One night I tarried so long in the Em­perour's Garden, which was next to that of the Women, that the Gates were shut up: All the Bostangi's had re­tired, no body was up any longer in the Seraglio, no light appeared there, and I was fain to stay there till day, after I had endeavoured to no purpose to get out towards the Sea.

As I was withdrawing in a retired place, to spend there the rest of the night, I saw a man crossing the great Flower Garden, and marching towards me with all possible haste: By avoiding him, I had confest my self guilty, there­fore going towards him, I perceived it was the Emperour. What do you do here, Scanderberg, said he to me, with a se­vere [Page 32] Countenance? being bred up in Our Palaces, and well instructed with our Cu­stoms, ought you to shew this Example of boldness to so many Persons, who can make an ill use of it, and have you some secret design against my Rest, my Life, or my Au­thority? I have nothing to say to thy High­ness for my Justification, answered I, and I appear guilty enough, to deserve thy in­dignation; but I must say this, that a me­lancholy humour is the cause of the fault for which thou blamest me, and I swear I have tarryed here minding not the place where I was. You are so dear to me, reply'd the Emperour, that I am concern'd with all your sorrows, and if you have any reason for any, not only I forgive you this fault, but shall do my endeavours to satisfie you. Thine Highness, said I, is too kind, and ought not to trouble it self about so small trifles; the want of Employment is the cause of my sor­row, and thy Highness, leaving nothing to do for us, makes my young Courage grumble at its being idle. You have done enough to desire Peace, and enjoy some Rest, reply'd the Sultan, but if your Valour wants ex­ercise, I promise you some. Go home qui­etly, and expect from me such Employments, as are worthy of a Hero, who intends to surpass all the Ottomans.

[Page 33] I made a very humble bow to the Empe­rour, glad I had pacify'd him, and went away as he directed me; but that Night was to bring forth other adventures. Prince Mahomet, brought there by the same motives as I, had been also shut in, and we saw him coming towards us, thinking we were some Bostangi's, or Eu­nuchs: Is this a fit time for you to be here, said the angry Emperour to him, and are you my Son, only to shew your self unworthy of being so? The young Prince was struck with these words, he saw me, and thought concerning me the same thing I did concerning him. I have sinned against my own will, My Lord, answered he to the Sultan, but I protest to thy Highness I shall come hither no more. A third man who did steal behind the Hedge more slily than we had done, hin­der'd the Sultan's reply; he did go to­wards the Womens Lodgings, a place which had always seem'd suspicious to Amurat, but chiesly now in the begin­ning of his new Passion; but his fear and vexation increased when he heard Arianissa's fine voice, with which he was already acquainted, sing these words.

The Sultan felt then all the powers of jealousie, esteeming that Song to be the signal: we were guilty all three, and never did an innocent Adventure afford greater cause of suspicion to a passionate Lover: He ran to the third Adventu­rer, and knew him presently to be Musselman, whom Arianissa's voice had stopt.

None of us was a contemptible per­son, and tho' Mahomet and I had some advantages above Musselman, by reason of our Youth, and natural parts, yet his Authority in the Gardens might be of a great use to a forward man. Tho' the Bostangi Bassa had some priviledges and few set hours, yet Amurat thought him more guilty than us. Musselman, said he to him, with that pride which is natural to all the Sultans, what brings [Page 35] you hither at an hour, when no duty re­quires your presence? Was it to introduce you to the Sultanesses, that a Slave sung just now, and do you leave your house only to come and trouble me in mine?

Musselman was not amazed at this up­braiding, he is Naturally bold, and answering without any commotion, I thought, my Lord, reply'd he, I could not have too much Zeal for thine Highness, and that all the hours of the day and night, were free for my Loyalty; by thy Kindness I command in the Gardens, but I know how to stay in mine, as soon as I shall perceive that my Services are suspected. I believe, said the Emperor, I shall not be able to un­riddle this Mistery; I will moderate my own Temper, let us retire, and let us be more careful for the future: So we re­tired into the Seraglio: I don't questi­on but Musselman suspected both the Prince's Love and mine. Amurat whom his reflect thoughts had brought to the Garden at that hour against his Cu­stome, doubled the Guards towards the Seraglio of the Women, and gave more severe orders to the Eunuchs, which some faithfully observed.

Aradin upbraided me the next day for my wandring: We concluded Ma­homet [Page 36] and Musselman were my Rivals, and hoping to cure me, he assured me the Emperour was deeply in Love with Arianissa: That Passion could not de­stroy mine, tho' it ruined all my hopes, I feared neither the Prince nor Mussel­man, whose condition was not better than mine: But I ought to fear all things from the Sultan, whose inclinations were violent, and whose will nothing was able to resist. I sighed for this with Aradin, I became more circum­spect before the Prince; and avoiding the Gardens, contented my self with the Entertainment my Melancholy Thoughts enjoy'd upon the Sea Shoar.

I understood one day, that the Em­perour was going to bathe with some Sultanesses, in a little Island, from A­drianople about an hours journey; he was used to take secretly such Pastimes, and then he would put off for a while all sorts of Gravity; his Galley was so shut, that the Sultanesses could neither see nor be seen; it was led by some Bostangi's, and Musselman by vertue of his place was at the head of them, but that honour procured him no advantage, since he could see nothing but his Bostangi's.

[Page 37] But my Jealousie was so strong, that I went all along the Sea a very great way from Adrianople, and casting my looks as far as they could reach, I saw something over the water, carryed a­way by the stream: I thought I percei­ved a Vail, and believing it might be a Woman ready to be drowned, I threw my self presently into the water, and using my little Skill, I swam with all possible diligence, and took really into my Arms a woman, who was almost choak'd.

I doubled my efforts to get to the Shore, and as soon as I was there, I perceived it was Arianissa: You may judge, Dear Thopia, what was my grief when I saw the only thing that was dear to me, in such a lamentable condi­tion, Merciless Fate, cry'd I, ought you to have offered her to me in such a con­dition? O fair, but unwise Arianissa, why did you seek your death, in so little important a Pleasure? This transport of mine did not hinder me from assisting her. I lifted her head, and bending a little the rest of her body, abun­dance of water rushed out of it, and within a short while, she recovered her Breath; this relief called again the [Page 38] natural heat which seem'd to have for­saken her, and drove away part of my Allarms, after a deep sigh, she open'd her Eyes, and seeing her self alone with a man, having but a thin gown on, she was willing to change her po­sture. Knowing her Design, and desi­rous to please her, I let her set down upon the Grass, and seeing she was able to understand me; Fair Arianissa, said I, that Fate which hath exposed your Life, hath been favourable to my Affection, but let not this adventure trouble you, since Scanderberg would sooner lose his Life, than his respect towards your Person.

Arianissa sighed twice or thrice, and was some while without answering me, but at last she reply'd: Tho' my Life be not dear to me, My Lord, I am not the less beholding to you; if you had not been so generous, you had freed me from many Misfortunes; but you could not have guest my condition. I was as much moved with Arianissa's words, as with her languishing Charms. I know not what Fate Heaven designs for you, but I shall think my self happy for ever, since I have been serviceable to you; in another time, and under another Government, I should take other measures, and should not let you [Page 39] know my Love, till my Services and Re­spect had sufficiently demonstrated it; and deserved your consent; but as things stand now, how is it possible to see you in a Palace, where we can have no admission? and how can one speak with you, since it is in vain to hope to come near you? I Love you, I am forced to acquaint you with it, and if this free Confession renders me guilty, I shall never repine at my Punishment, I was the same before I had seen you, and I adored your Vertue, without knowing your Person. What Discourse is this, My Lord, interrupted Arianissa, with a charming Sweetness? Is this to try me? Do you consider that I am a Slave, sub­ject to the Emperour of the Turks, loaded with Chains by Selimana, and who likely shall not see you any more in all her life time? as for your present con­dition, said I, it is an injury of Fortune, which may easily be repaired, and if you desire to put an end to your Captivity, do but trust me, and, follow me. What can you do, Scanderberg, cry'd that fair Cap­tive? You have Valour enough to over­come Amurat's Enemies, but you are not strong enough to deliver me from his Ty­raany.

I had done, may be, more than Aria­nissa [Page 40] could hope for, if on one side Ma­homet, who had followed my steps, had not arrived near us, and on the other, we had not seen the Emperour's Galley, returning to Constantinople grievously afflicted, to have seen Arianissa carried away by the Stream wherein she had fallen, advancing too far in the Bath: Too happy Scanderberg, said the jealous Prince to me, why don't you content your self with Selimana's Favours? I was vexed at this Discourse, and Ari­anissa Blushed: I saw the young Sul­tan had no mind to oblige me, but I had not time to let him know my anger. Amurat, in a kind of Despair, whose eyes sought Arianissa every where, perceived us upon the Shore, and came to deprive me of what I had acquired, with the hazard of my own life: He told me confusedly, I had done him a good piece of Service; and Arianissa, passing into the Galley, as­sured me by a kind look, she was not insensible of what I had done for her. I cannot express what my amorous heart suffered at this parting. Tho' I had feared it, yet I thought it would not be so sudden, and I could hardly hide my sorrow.

[Page 41] Scanderberg, said Mahomet to me, we are both in Love with Arianissa, but tho' the Laws render our Fortunes equal, by forbidding us from seeing her, yet you have some advantages that may comfort you for that Mis­fortune. I could deny to you, what are my Sentiments, concerning Aria­nissa, answered I, since any generous man ought to have done what I did, and that I knew not it was she, when I went about to serve her, but I cannot dissemble, and I must confess that I love her. I perceived, My Lord, you were my Rival, and a jealous Rival too, who cared not to oblige me, when you spoke to me concerning Selimana. Can you wonder, I should promote my own heart's interest, reply'd the young Sultan? Arianissa is not beloved by the Emperour, and were you not my Ri­val, may be I should have none. You are mistaken, Mahomet, added I; the Emperour has changed his Love: What is he in Love with Arianissa, reply'd he? Yes, said I. Alas! continued he sighing, what hope can flatter us? and suppose we should follow the ad­vices of the most violent jealousie, what advantage will that afford us? Then [Page 42] we entered into Adrianople, where the Emperour was already returned, and we put an end to our Discourse.

I met Aradin who was looking for me, knowing what had past. Having done so much for my person, said I to him, embracing him, will you at­tempt nothing for my rest? will you abandon me to those sorrows, that Love threatens me with? and will all your acquaintance in the Seraglio prove fruitless? I ought to employ them only for the Sultan's Service, reply'd Aradin, and my Zeal can af­ford you but a weak assistance; tho' you are infinitely dear to me, I am forced to see you suffer, without at­tempting any thing in your behalf. I see Amurat is mad because you have seen Arianissa, he fears without know­ing why, and we shall become Slaves to his jealousie. Is that your way of comforting me, dear Aradin, cry'd I? But what will you have, reply'd the Eunuch, and what can one do under a Master so powerful, and so formidable as Amurat? Do you think Arianissa will be able to resist him? and suppose she had no real Love for him, she must still fear and obey [Page 43] him. Aradin's discourse, filled my mind with so dreadful Ideas, that I was like to dye for Grief, and he saw me so much afflicted, that he could not deny me the Favour of carrying a Letter from me to Arianissa. 'Tis likely I shall pay dear enough, said he, for what I am going to do for you; but I shall easily comfort my self, if you are fully perswaded of my sincere Friendship. I embraced Aradin, and having wrote what Love dictated to me, I delivered the Bil­let to his care: There are but these few words in it.

[Page 44] The officious Aradin took all the i­maginable care to come near Arianissa, but he could not that day, she was so wearied by her last Misfortune, that she was forced to keep her Bed. The Emperour took no longer any care to hide his new Passion, but owned it pub­lickly. Arianissa had a private Apart­ment for her self; and Selimana, tor­mented with other cares, was not sen­sible at first of the shame of being for­saken.

But Arianissa was insensible of the marks of the Sultan's Love, so much wished for by the other Women of the Seraglio. Amurat sighed like other Lovers at the first growth of his Pas­sion; after that he would fain go far­ther: But Arianissa was equally dis­pleased with his Sighs and Haughti­ness, and shewed a repugnancy which he little expected, and which was look'd upon by him as a Prodigy in a Girl of her Age and condition; the more because his violent desires had never met before with such a resistance.

Aradin, a zealous and diligent Friend, perform'd his errand as soon as he could; he found Arianissa alone, me­lancholy, and thinking doubtless upon [Page 45] what she was to suffer from the Sultan. Fair Arianissa, said he to her, all moments are here precious, and I ought not to neglect them. Scanderberg, famous for his Valour, and remarkable for his rare and great Qualities, (forgive me, Tho­pia, if I use Aradin's words, to avoid all digressions) Scanderberg, say I, kept far from you by a barbarous Law, de­sires you might know his Zea and Con­stancy; and to that purpose he is forc­ed to make use of this innocent means. Then the Eunuch offered her the Billet: But she who knew not our intimate friendship thought he was come to try her. These Intreagues are not allow­ed in the Seraglio, answered she; we might pay both dear enough for them; and your Master is not so kind a Prince as to permit them. Leave off therefore this Playing, which cannot but dis­please me, and may prove fatal to your self: And believe, that I care neither to love nor to be loved. You may suspect me of Perfideousness, re­plyed Aradin, seeing it is so common among the Turks, and because I am altogether unknown to you. But, Aria­nissa, do not entertain such a thought concerning me; and do not wrong so [Page 46] far the Prince Scanderberg; he loves you, and you cannot, but with a Cru­elty blame-worthy, deny him the favour to read what he writes to you. Aria­nissa, after a long resistance, took at last the Paper, and kept her eyes fix'd upon it a considerable while; so that likely she read it more than once. A­radin observed her, and told me af­terwards, that he had perceiv'd in her looks a trouble which favoured me, that she had sighed, and seem'd to feel some tender motions in her heart; and considering her and my own condition, she had said, alas, Aradin, what can the Prince Scanderberg expect from me, who can dispose of nothing, and find my self bound in that unfortunate place where my ill Fortune detains me? All his desire, replyed Aradin, is, you would permit him to love you, and that your kindness might be concerned in all his misfortunes. Suppose I should do what he desires, added Arianissa, would his condition be the happier? Bid him, sooner forget me, and if he finds in me any thing that deserves his affection, let him consider, that all sorts of Conversation is forbidden us; let him take care, not to attempt any ha­zardous [Page 47] enterprize that may either un­do him or endanger my self; let him be careful chiefly of his own life. A­rianissa, interrupted Aradin, is your heart so much concerned for his life as to desire its preservation? Ask me no such questions, replyed the fair Slave blushing, and do only what I bid you. Arianissa, said the officious Ara­din, one word from your hand would do more with him than any thing I can tell him. You ask for too much, re­plyed Arianissa, and you know your self, I ought not to do what you desire; that all things are dangerous here, and that very often the most secret Acti­ons become publick. I tremble even now for reason of this conversation; be gone, Aradin, and leave me to my dreadful sorrow. I leave you to the Sultan's love, replyed Aradin. Cruel misfortune of my Life, and cause of all my Miseries, cryed Arianissa; how dearly have I paid for that love which I abhor? and what sorrows I am like to suffer upon its account? Some body coming, obliged them to part. Aria­nissa kept my Letter, and Aradin came to me to acquaint me with what had pass'd.

[Page 48] The Emperour's love was too violent not to be followed by an extraordinary jealousie; his suspicious increased ex­cessively; and considering Arianissa's coldness, he thought that either her heart was not free when she came to the Seraglio, or that since she had fallen in love. His meeting me in the Gar­dens, my good fortune upon the Sea­shoar, and my deep melancholy, which I was no more able to hide, rais'd great suspicions in his mind. And though my condition was but little different from Musselman's, or the Prince's, yet I seem'd to him more formidable than they, by reason of my good Fortune: He observ'd carefully all my steps, took notice of my Eyes, which were always turned towards the Seraglio, explained to himself the meaning of my troubles, and of my Sighs; and in a word, did not question but I was in love. You may easily conjecture whether it was an easie matter for me to attempt any thing, being watch'd by such an Argus. Aradin, who perceived his jealousie, was continually advising me how I ought to steer my Conduct, and in this uneasie condition I spent many sad and useless days.

[Page 49] But, Thopia, I was not the only Man who was troubled. Musulman loved exceedingly Arianissa: The same Passion wholly possess'd Mahomet; and Selimana being forsaken by the Emperor, began to be sensible of the injury done her Beau­ty, and thought the only way to be re­venged, was to get a new Lover.

There is always a prodigious number of Eunuchs in the Seraglio, whose duty is to observe the Sultanesses, and to serve them, and those are pickt out from a­mong the ugliest. Selimana's favour had gained her the zeal of the most conside­rable of them: Amaldan had always stuck to her interest; and since Amu­rat's new Passion gave her time to mind her own, she manag'd so well the Eu­nuch's Zeal, that he was willing to do her any Service.

Amaldan was about forty years old, he was black and ugly, but witty and bold, and in a word, a fit Confident to serve Selimana: It had look'd a little odd, if he had acquainted me without any more ado with Selimana's tender af­fection. She knew not what the Prince and I had heard, and therefore she could make no use of that Adventure; had she directly written to me, it was [Page 50] likely my Heart had not been pleasd with that freedom; she therefore whol­ly relyed upon Amaldan's wit: Having been bred up a Schollar, he understood Greek perfectly well, and was well nough acquainted with the niceties of Poetry; he thought therefore his best way at first, was to shew me some wit­ty Verses; and having made some fit for his purpose, he accosted me upon a Ter­rass in the great Seraglio's Gardens where, in a melancholly Humour, I was looking upon the Stream that water'd the foot of the Walls. Who could believe, my Lord, said he to me, that a Prince of your Age and Parts would seek solitary places without being in love? Was your Heart free, you would not shun with so much care other Men's Conversation. I beg your pardon, my Lord, for my boldness; but your natu­ral bounty will excuse this freedom, which is not ordinarily used towards Persons of your rank, but in whatever condition you are, either free, or not, those that honour you as much as I do, ought to do always their endeavours to divert you. I blushed, hearing Amaldan, speak thus, fearing lest he should suspect something. My Lord, said he then, one [Page 51] does not blush except he hath some rea­son for it, and this commotion proceeds likely from your Heart. But with­out piercing too far into a Secret which I ought to reverence, give me leave to consult you upon a nice point. And then he offered me some Verses, which I could not deny to read, and which I remember yet, they were those:

I lik'd them well enough, and I read them more than once; but I never sus­pected the meaning of them. Amaldan was glad I was pleased with them, and thought it was now time for him to trust me with his Secret. Is it not true, my Lord, that Love is commonly drawn af­ter a strange manner? and that, if we will hearken to the Wits, it is a dread­ful Monster, which ought carefully to be avoided? I confess, it appears un­pleasant to those that have nothing that renders them worthy to be beloved; but I imagine thousands of Charms in the sincere and tender love of two Hearts. I must confess, said I to Amaldan, that your Verses and your Opinion seem to me to be in the right; but I am so little versed in Love Matters, that I am no competent Judge of its Effects. My Lord, reply'd the Eunuch, when you [Page 53] please you may be a great proficient therein, and I know a certain way for that purpose. I cannot dissemble with a Prince, as discreet as you are. I'll tell you therefore, you are loved by Seli­mana, Amurat's beloved Sultaness; she acquaints you, what way it is best for you to follow, by her order I speak to you, and you ought not to be discou­raged at the Seraglio's Maximes, since I can overcome the greatest Difficulties. I did not expect such a Complement from Amaldan, which did not answer my Inclinations, and I was a little while without answering him. You bring your self into no danger by your freedom, said I at last to him. I take it for a token of your Esteem and Friendship, nor am I willing to make an ill use of it. Seli­mana may be fair and kind, but Amurat is a formidable Prince, and my Loyalty obliges me to all sorts of respects. You don't speak, reply'd the Eunuch smiling, like a young Prince favour'd by Love, but like a fearful Politician, or a morose Philosopher. This modesty which ought to be praised in a Dervise, seems to me in you the strangest things in the world; what can all Amurat's power do, since your beloved Scanderberg's Pleasures [Page 54] easily obtained, lose much of their sweetness? Besides, was I not certain to serve you, I am not so much out of love with my own life, as to expose my self to an unavoidable Death: Let me then be your Guide, and trust me with the carrying on of your Intregue. All Amaldan's fair words could not persuade me to it. I was not willing to expose my self to so many Dangers for Selima­na's sake, and I alledged still in my De­fence, Custom, and my Loyalty to the Emperor.

Amaldan did not acquaint the Sulta­ness with the unhappy issue of his first Negotiation, lest he should drive her into Despair; her hatred against Amu­rat increased, as his love for Arianissa; she was capable of any violent Action, had not Amaldan allay'd her Rage.

Prince Mahomet, who seem'd to act nothing, and Musulman, whose proceed­ings were very secret, had nevertheless some private Intelligences, and gain'd some Friends in the Seraglio. Covetous­ness is so natural to the Turks, that In­terest often makes void the severity of their Laws. Bostangi Bassi being a rich Man, gained by his liberality almost all the Eunuchs; and except Aradin whose [Page 55] Honesty was proof against all temptati­on, the rest yielded easily to his Gold; having a free occasion in the Gardens, he could freely Converse with them; he intrusted the cunning Amaldan with his Passion for Arianissa. Another had been started at this Proposition. But Amaldan harken'd to it without the least Commotion, and his exaggerating to the grand Gardner, the difficulties they should meet with, was only to set an higher value upon his Services.

You may judge, Thopia, thereby, how Pernicious is idleness; had the Eunuchs a different Employment from that of observing the Women in the Seraglio, they should never apply them­selves to barter their Favours.

Amaldan, who knew Arianissa well e­nough, to perceive her good Nature, feared not in the least to be punished by her for his boldness. He did Mu­sulman's Errant, as Aradin had done mine, and represented the Bostangi Ba­ssi's Passion to her, as the only way to free her from her slavery; she did not entertain him as she had done Aradin, but with a Noble Pride, she let him understand that it was in vain for the grand Gardner to hope any thing from [Page 56] her. The covetous Amaldan was little troubled at this, and was not such a Fool as to discourage any body, as long as he could obtain his Ends. He re­solved in spight of my self, to bring me one Night into Selimana's compa­ny; and little solicitous of her Ho­nour or Fortune, so he might satisfie himself. He trusted Musulman with this Secret. He told him that if he could bring me into the private Gar­dens, for himself, he would get Selima­na and Arianissa to take a walk, which might be favourable to us, making the grand Gardner believe, that I was in love with the Sultaness, and that fear only hindred me from courting her. Musulman, who had suspected I loved Arianissa, was glad to understand this Mistery, and promised to do whatever Amaldan desired.

The grand Gardner was well enough acquainted with the Maxims of the Country; the effects of which he ought to fear, but his Love prevailed over his Reason. He found me out, as he had promised to Amaldan, and asked me, whether I was willing to walk. I could not guess his intentions, and tho' I looked upon him as my Rival, yet, at last I followed him.

[Page 57] We took many turns in the Seraglio's Garden, and the Bostangi Bassi, who was well acquainted with all the by­ways, brought me into that of the Women, through a door which we found open'd; I was not sensible at first of my wandring, but coming near a labyrinth, which I had not seen since my Infancy. I was surprised to see my self in that place. You are mista­ken, or you have a mind to ruine me, said I to Musulman, and these places are not free for such persons as we. Do you think I am capable of betraying you? Answe­red Musulman, and do you believe I shall not share here the same Fortune with you? Your presence is desired by Selimana, and her kindness will protect you. As I was going to answer, displeased with his proceedings, we saw Prince Mahomet coming, who had no more priviledge than we, and who was not there with­out some Design. He was as much sur­prised as we. We could not think but we were guilty all three; yet pru­dence would have us hide our Resent­ments, and had we had a mind to fall out, we had been hindered by Abaci the Eunuch, who had introduced the young Sultan, and who knew nothing [Page 58] of our being there. My Lord, said he to him, loud enough to be heard by us Arianissa is coming, make use of su [...] a favourable moment. Abaci went hi [...] way, and Arianissa, who had parte [...] from Selimana, came. Tho' Night de­prived us of the sight of her Charms, yet by reason of its favourable silence we could the better hear her sight. Musulman curbed by Mahomet's presence did not enjoy the happiness he hoped for. And the Prince in a maze by rea­son of Abaci's discourse, tarried in the same place. For my part, I was also put to a stand. Arianissa sat her self down upon the grass, and thinking she was heard by no body, she let go these sad Complaints. Unfortunate Arianissa, said she, Princess expos'd to ever lasting Sufferings, what canst thou expect from Amurat? What canst thou do for Scanderberg? Did Cruel Fate take thee from Albania, to offer him here too Charming for thy Rest? Castriot, why don't you ask all the Princes of the World some Succour, to deliver such an Illustrious Son from those Hands, who likely, for a Reward of his Glorious Exploits, will one day sacrifice him.

[Page 59] These Arianissa's words made a deep impression upon both our Hearts. But, Thopia, those two Rivals were not the only I ought to fear, a third more formidable heard them. Amurat ac­quainted by some Traytor, that Soli­man and Arianissa were in the Garden, was surprised at it, because they were not used to go there, running there­fore with all possible haste, he heard what I have already told you. Perfi­dious Arianissa, cryed he in a jealous rage, thou tellest every moment I see thee, and tho' thou hast my most ten­der Affections, yet wishest thou my Ruine. Thy imprudent Heart hath condemned Scanderberg to dye, and I will punish him for having pleased thee, as I ought to do. I am not a­fraid of thy Anger, replyed the coura­geous Arianissa, and I am so far from pacifying it, that I confirm to thee what thou hast already heard by chance. A Power above thine will defend that Prince thou intendest to Oppress, and for my part, I shall be pleased better with Death than with thy Love.

About that time, Thopia, did the Emperor perceive us. I cannot ex­press his Rage to you. His Son, and [Page 60] Musulmon suffered but little by it. It fell heavy only upon me. Take away that Slave, said he, to a great many Eunuchs, and be responsible of the least of her Actions: and for thee, said he, turning towards me, Knave, and persi­dious Scanderberg, unworthy Object of Amurat's Favours, and the fatal cause of all his present grief, go, and ex­pect such a death as thou deservest. If thine Injuries proceeds from thy jealou­sie, answered I, I forgive them upon that account, because that Passion is used to blind our Reason. Think of my moderation what thou pleaset, but know, that had any other Man spoke to me after this manner, besides thee, he should not escape unpunished.

The proud Emperor harkned no lon­ger to me. He commanded I should be shut up in the dreadfullest Prison, think­ing by what he had heard, I entertain'd some secret Correspondence with Aria­nissa. As for Mahomet and Musulman, he shew'd them only an angry Coun­tenance, without Arresting them.

Selimana ran away hearing this noise, and Amaldan was not such a Fool as to come and shew his Face. As soon as we were out of the Gardens, Amu­rat [Page 61] threatned the Eunuchs, and struck Terror every where. He sent the ug­liest of his Seraglio to observe the Wo­men, and such a vast number of them was placed in Arianissa's Appartment, that all admission there became impos­sible.

I was shut up in a Dungeon, with­out seeing Aradin, whom my misfor­tune was like to cast into a despair. He understood the Adventure I have relat­ed to you, by Amaldan's means, whose imprudence and disloyalty he much blam­ed. Aradin did not question the hea­viness of my grief, in such a sorrow­ful place, where I had so many reasons of being afflicted. Amurat upbraided him with my pretended treachery, and accused him to have bred me up in those, ill dispositions, being well ac­quainted with hiss Temper, he yielded to the first transports of his rage, pre­tended to condemn me, and by these means prevented his own disgrace. Hav­ing still his wonted freedom, he made use of it, he saw Arianissa in spight of all her Observers, comforted her, and obliged her to write to me, ac­quainting her with my deplorable con­dition. She did not question in the least, [Page 62] but I had heard her in the Garden, and therefore was the easier resolved to it. Aradin sent me this Note by one of my Guardians.

Having read this Letter, I was no longer sensible of the heaviness of my Chains. I enjoyed my hearts desire. I was beloved of Arianissa, born of one of the most Illustrious Families in Al­bania. I knew Aranit's name, and tho' [Page 63] I had but a feeble Idea of my Father's Court, yet I could remember him. It was quite impossible for me to answer Ariantssa's Note. And all that I could do was to read it over a thousand times a day.

But, Thopia, Fortune, which intended to cross me, afflicted me still with new msifortunes. I learnt from that man whom Aradin had disposed to favour me, that my Father was dead, that Amurat was incensed against me, and to possess himself of Castriot's Domi­nions, had poisoned my three Brothers, designing me for another Sacrifice; but altho' he was violent to excess; he durst not destroy me, in the Presence of the Turkish Souldiers, by whom I was loved, and who began to grumble at my Captivity.

Amurat's Cruelty produced in my heart that effect which could be rea­sonably expected; yet I must tell you, to justifie my resentments, that I ne­ver projected any Design against him, unworthy of a Man of Courage; all that I desired, was to see my self free, and to declare an open War against the proud Sultan, who regarded so little the Blood I had lost in his Ser­vice.

[Page 64] Whilst I was thus griev'd and per­plexed, both by Nature and Love, the Turks, who had seen me venture my life for their Emperour's Glory, pity­ed my Fate, and demanded my Liber­ty. Amurat desired my death, but feared the consequences thereof, and therefore was obliged by reason of the Grumbling of the Nation, to put an end to my Captivity.

Going out of Prison, I retired to Acomat, a young Bassa, and the only Man amongst the Turks, upon whose Friendship I did most rely. I met there with a generous reception; he approved my Resentment, and ad­vised me to go my self, and upbraid the Sultan for his ungratefulness. But I could not abide his sight, I could not think without horror on my Bro­thers death. My Mother's sad con­dition, and the miserable Life the young Princesses my Sisters lead in some retired place of Albania. I heard before it was long, the violent pro­ceedings of the Emperor's Tyranny; I had a true Relation thereof from Aradin, whom I saw by Acomat's means, he assured me also of Arianissa's kind­ness towards me, and added, that tho' [Page 65] the Sultan's Rage had not fall'n so heavy upon Mahomet or Musulman as upon me, yet they had smarted for his Jealousie.

Tho' I was fully at liberty, I did not know what to resolve. Amurat had possess'd himself of all my Domi­nions, and the only thing I could own, was my Sword; after a long Consul­tation with Acomat and Aradin, at last I intended to depart, tho' I felt a great reluctancy in leaving Arianissa.

Tho' I had conceived a mortal ha­tred against Amurat, yet I resolved to speak to him. I met him one day, as he was going out of the Divan. He had been vexed at some important deliberation there, and displeased with Arianissa's continual rigour, so that one could easily read his Rage in his Eyes. I thought, said he, you should make a better use of the Liberty I grant­ed you at Adrianople, than to offer your self to my presence, and that your remorse should free me from the sight of such an odious Object. This Discourse, like the Ottoman Pride, was too outragious to me, to be born patiently. If thine ungrateful Eyes had never seen me, an­swered I, it is likely you had paid dear [Page 66] enough for it. You are no longer an Ho­stage, interrupted the unjust Amurat, but a Captive, of whom the Janissaries, are to be responsible. If thou hadst con­sidered Hostages as sacred, replyed I, thou hadst never poison'd my Brothers, and nothing can hide the Horror of this Bar­barous action from Posterity. I pity thy young age, replyed the Sultan, with a scornful smile, and the trouble thou takest of describing my Actions, deserves a fit Reward; get far from me and A­rianissa, and repent of having offended me. I swear to thee by our most Holy Laws, I shall never call thee back again.

So he left me spightfully. I saw presently, that it was now time for me to depart, and to perform for my own Family, and that of Arianissa what Honour required from me; it was impossible for me to see that Char­ming Beauty, whom I recommended a thousand times to the care of the Af­fectionate Aradin.

Amurat, to cloak his injustice, and not to disoblige the Janissaries, who had declared themselves my Protectors, offered me by Orcan, his Favourite, and already Grand Visier, in the room of the deceased Hersecoli, the Command [Page 67] of some Forces, which he kept in the entrance of Asia, and sent me word, to tarry there for his Orders, think­ing I should never attempt any thing against him, since all the Garrisons in Epirus, and Albania were filled up with Turks. Aradin did not question but A­murat's design was to shut me up in some remote Fortress. Croya it self seemed well affected for him, notwith­standing all the Efforts of the Princes Loyal to our Interest.

But, Thopia, as I was ready to de­part, seeming to accept of Amurat's proffer, Fortune procured me the hap­piness of seeing Arianissa once more.

There happenned one night a fire in the Seraglio, Musulman was suspect­ed to be the Author of it. It increa­sed so much, that it cast all Adrianople into a great Consternation. The Ap­partment of the Women began to burn, and the like Confusion was ne­ver seen; they laboured but in vain to put it out in the Emperor's presence, who encouraged those that laboured; all the Water of the Sea, Channels, and Rivers, had never been able to save Arianissa, had I not shewed my self more eager, and more Couragi­ous than the rest.

[Page 68] You may judge how much I was affrighted at this Accident, and with what haste I ran to assist her. All the Janissaries, Spahis, and other Souldiers, and all the Officers of the Seraglio were busied in quenching the Flame, but durst not venture any farther to save the Wo­men threatned with a cruel Death. A­murat's fair Promises were in vain, fear rendred them all deaf to his words, and I was the only Man whom Love emboldened; I ran upon high Piles of burning Cinders to the Gallery, where the Women with the Eunuchs expected their last hour. And most part of them did cry after a strange rate, for fear of Death. Selimana her self looked very pale and fearful. But Arianissa pre­served still her magestick and serene Countenance, and look'd upon death without the least Commotion. As soon as Selimana perceived me, she came to trust her self into my arms, but she found them not opened. Aradin, said I to the Eunuch who had followed me, save the beloved Sultaness, whilst I shall en­deavour to do the same to some more exposed Person; he took her away, and I ran to Arianissa, who had observed my behaviour, and I carried her away [Page 69] easily; reproaching the Eunuchs with their weakness, and exhorting them to do the same to the rest.

Mahomet and Musulman, who had seen me going into the Seraglio, were asham­ed to stay idle, and not follow my Ex­ample, but I was more diligent than they, and brought Arianissa into a safe place. I pass'd slily towards the Gar­dens to converse with her in Secret, whil'st the faithful Aradin carried Soli­mana into another place.

Arianissa was almost choaked with the smoak, and tho' she had the advan­tage of a purer Air, yet she could not suddenly recover her lost Speech; I had also suffered much by it, and all my Cloths were spoiled; but the pleasure of being with Arianissa did not per­mit me to reflect on such an inconside­rable loss. I think, my Lord, said she to me, when she was a little recovered, that Heaven had design'd you for the pre­servation of my Life; for as often as it is threatned with a danger, you ha­zard your own to secure it. How for­tunate should I esteem my self, Scan­derberg, if I could acquit my self of those great Obligations. Tho' you prolong but an unfortunate Life, yet [Page 70] that do's not lessen the dangers, to which you expose your self. Madam, interrupted I, had I done a thousand times more, you should not be behold­ing in the least to me, your dangers are mine own, and acting for your Securi­ty, I promote my own rest. Alas! Arianissa, let not your kindness busie it self in taking notice of such small Ser­vices; but consider rather, how grie­vous your absence will prove to me, you know Amurat's barbarous proceedings towards our Family; my Mother stript of all her Estate and Dignity, leads an uncomfortable life, in some corner of Albania, with her Daughters, and the illustrious Aranit, that Prince your worthy Progenitor, is forced to submit to a Foreign Power.

Arianissa was sensibly moved at my Discourse, and her Tears testified it. Go, my Lord, into Albania, answered she sadly to me, revenge your Royal Blood, deliver those great Princesses, whose only comfort you are, possess your self of Castriot's Throne, protect Aranit, and never forget Arianissa. If you were willing, Madam, replied I, I should not fly alone. Alas! my Lord, answered she, I could follow you with­out [Page 71] repugnancy, was it possible for you to take me from hence; but such an attempt can never succeed well here at Andrinople. To prevent those Griefs and Alarms which absence might pro­duce in you, I pass my word to you, I shall resist the Emperour; let him pray or threaten, 'tis all one. I embraced then Arianissa's Knees, and could not refrain Tears. I swore an inviolable Constancy to her, and I bade her Adieu for the last time, I went away accord­ing to her Command, for fear of being surprized with her.

I went to Aradin, and to Bassa Acomat, and I acquainted them with what had pass'd: The fire was put out, the Sultanesses shut up again, and Arianissa more closely than the rest: At last I departed from Andrinople, re­commending my Amorous concerns to Aradin; and instead of going to the place appointed to me by Amurat, I entered Albania with three hundred men, who came over to my party: There I performed those happy Atchieve­ments which have amazed the whole world; I turned the Ottoman Power out of Croya, and other places of Al­bania, where I was proclaimed King: [Page 72] the Valiant Aradin, Loyal to Our Blood, and concerned for his dear Arianissa, did for me all that I could expect from an affectionate Father. Vranus, Illustrious both for his Birth and Merit, stuck very close to me, I did not enjoy the pleasure of seeing my Mother again, who was dead for grief, she had given three Illustrious Husbands to three of my Sisters, and Amissa only was not marry'd.

Amurat fell into a rage, as soon as he heard my advantages, and saw himself deprived in few days of a great number of fine Provinces. He sent a prodigi­ous Army to regain them. But first I defeated Sebasia, and afterwards Alibeg, who commanded fourty thousand Men. After this, I won an immortal Fame in Varna's Battel: Amurat wrote to me like a Master, and I answer'd him like a King, who despised him. In one word, without mentioning all other passages, Amurat came in person, fol­lowed by a numberless Army, after I had defeated Mustapha his Bassa.

I could never learn since Arianissa's condition, tho' I have done all my en­deavours to be instructed by those Turks, who are faln into our hands, because [Page 73] they know but little what Amurat does. I have been told only, that she is lo­ved still, that Musulman is disgraced, and absent, and that Mahomet does not well agree with his Father. You know, Thopia, what has past since we saw Amu­rat about Croya, and by my last cruel adventure you may judge of my grief.

Here the King of Albania made an end of his Discourse, and sighed after such a manner, that Thopia, who really loved him, could not but pity him. Scanderberg was not concerned alone for Arianissa's misfortunes. Aranit, her lo­ving Father, had been extreamly sensi­ble of her Captivity, and coming to see Scanderberg, he heard the cause of his extraordinary sadness. We must all die, my Lord, said he to Arianissa's Father; but before we die, let us render our Arms formidable to Amurat, let us re­turn on him that terrour he strikes into our hearts, and let whole Torrents of Turkish blood wash off the Crime com­mitted against the innocent Arianissa.

Scanderberg was not able to go on. Thopia informed Prince Aranit, what was the reason of his cruel rage, he was amazed at it, but could not believe what he feared was true. My Lord, [Page] said he to the King, Amurat's Note [...] a sign of his rage; but it is likely, an Command hath not been executed: And I cannot imagine, Heavens Justice could permit such a Sacrifice. If Arianissa is dead, we shall have time enough to be wail her loss; in the mean time, let us inform our selves about her Destiny Aranit's Constancy, who could not be accused of loving coldly the most amia­ble Daughter in the World, pacified i [...] little Scanderberg. Well, said he, let us get some instructions about that, but let it be with our Arms, and all out Forces. If our Subjects desire to see a glorious Battel, let them come to this. Go, Thopia, said he to the young Prince, encourage the Army to do its duty, carry there mine Orders, and the News of my Displeasure: do not lessen to them the height of my grief: Ani­mate the Captains and Souldiers, and help me to go in a Conquest.

Thopia obey'd the King's Orders, and within a short time Scanderberg's Apart­ment was filled with Persons of Quality, who were ready to signalize their Va­lour, seeing him resolved to attack the Turks in their Retrenchments in what time and posture soever. Thopia's, [Page 75] Commotion did not differ much from that of Scanderberg. And Aranit in spight of Age shew'd all the vigour desired in a man of younger years. The famous Ducagins, the renowned Spani, Dusmani, Zacharia, Cernoniqui, and many others appeared at the head of their Albanian Forces: The orders having been given every where, the invincible Scanderberg appeared at the head of his Army wear­ing black Feathers; there was to be seen such a mixture of grief and pride in his Eyes, that his sight would move some to pity, and strike terror into Others. Having cast his looks upon his Forces, and having observed the constancy, which appeared in the least of his Soul­diers, Arianissa, said he, sighing, your precious blood will be expiated by that of your barbarous murthers. After that he spake thus to them.

‘Generous Princes, Valliant Captains, brave Souldiers, Loyal Subjects ofEpirus, andAlbania; he that speaks to you, is going to lead you against an Enemy, who might affright another Nation, and trusts your noble Courage with his Glory and Re­venge.Arianissa was born amongst you, you know her illustrious Family; andAra­nit's [Page] actions have made him famous all the World over: you are to fight to day for the innocent blood of that illustrious, but unfor­tunate Princess; let the Daughters Conditi­on, the Fathers Sorrow, and the Lover's Dispair, inspire you with an extraordinary Bravery. You want no examples, but had you need of any,Scanderberg may shew you some, worthy to be follow'd, come, Freinds, let us vanquish or dye forArianissa.’ When he had said these words, he let his Horse go, and the rest of that mighty Body followed his motions.

The Scouts of the Sultan's Camp soon discovered Scanderberg's March, and brought word to Amurat. He was well experienced in Warlike Matters, and knew well what he ought to do, Orcan brought his orders to the rest of his Officers. Every one went where his presence was required, and Sultan Ma­homet, hating Scanderberg, and desiring to keep in his Fathers favour, appear­ed the readiest, and the willingest to fight. Aconot, the King of Albania's generous Friend, did not go there to fight against him. There was as many Souldiers left in the Camp, as were necessary to secure it, and all the other [Page 77] Forces, which were to encounter Scan­derberg went out.

As soon as he perceived their Stan­dard, he sent forth a Cry, which was answered by all his Men; and with a threatning Look, and naked Sword, he went to meet the Enemy.

The Turks, who had seen him van­quish so often, trembled at his first sight. Amurat himself, notwithstand­ing all his Pride and Cruelty, was much concerned. Mahomet, jealous of Scan­derberg's Glory, and of the other ad­vantages he had above him, aspired to an immortal Fame by killing him. And Orcan, desiring to keep to himself the Sultan's favour, wished nothing so much as to sacrifice that Illustrious Victim to his Master's resentment.

Scanderberg spared no body in his first transport; even Amurat, whose Digni­ty he had respected till then, had felt himself the strength of his Arm, had he not been encompass'd by a crowd of Turks. How formidable is a valiant Man, when Love and Revenge encou­rage him to fight! What abundance of Blood was spilt in few moments! What vast number of Turks did the King of Albania kill? And how many [Page 78] fine Exploits were that day, performed by his Friends? Aranit was not at all sensible of his old Age; and the young Thopia let the Ottomans know there was more than one Hero in Albania.

They had already defeated Amurat's Van-guard, took his Standards, made Prisoners many of his Captains, and Victory did already begin to incline on Scanderberg's side, when Night put an end to their Fighting, tho' the Quarrel was not fully decided. Scanderberg would have pursued the Turks, but the Dark­ness became so thick he was fain to stay till to Morrow.

After the Lights had been kindled, as Scanderberg was going to enjoy a little rest, there was a kind of Prodi­gy seen; his Semitar had cleaved so fast to his hand in the heat of the Fight, that it could not be pluck'd off but with extraordinary pains: This was taken for an assured sign of his Strength and Valour.

His first care was to enquire about Aranit, who was no more to be seen, he was sought for to no purpose; and Scanderberg feared either he was dead or taken: He was thinking upon this when he perceived Acomat coming, [Page 79] who to see him, had revolted in the dead of the Night to his Party.

Scanderberg embraced him with all de­monstations of joy; and the generous Turk received his Caresses with all sorts of respect. My dear Acomat, said the amorous Scanderberg to him, do you come to confirm Arianissa's death, or to reproach me with my weakness. No, my Lord, replyed Acomat, I do not bring you so sad news. Arianissa is still alive in the Sultan's Camp. You have a mind, said the King of Albania, to deceive my grief. I have seen Amurat's Command, replyed Acomat; and then he shew'd him the Paper found upon Aradin, whose unfortunate Fate he acquainted him with. I took that faithful Eunuch to be with you, my Lord, and he left Amurat's Camp, only to pass into yours. But without doubt, Musselman, who hides himself not far from hence, had kill'd him. As for Arianissa, she is alive, and you may rely upon my word for that.

One cannot express how much then was Scanderberg's joy. Aranit was sought after; but some Souldiers said, they thought he had been made Prisoner, [Page 80] having seen him venture too far among the Turks.

They took that night the most con­venient measures for their safety, tho' it was not likely that Amurat, half van­quished, would come again to a Battel; there were Sentinels plac'd every where, and the news of Arianissa's Life were brought to Croya. Scanderberg enjoy'd more rest that night than usually; at break of Day they visited all the Corps, but could never find Aranit's.

Scanderberg was resolved to fulfill his Victory, and to free Arianissa and her Father from his Enemies. Acomat as­sured him Amurat expected a conside­rable succour. Scanderberg was but little alarm'd with this; and the hope of de­livering Arianissa prevail'd more upon his mind than any other consideration.

Aranit's Captivity was soon confirmed; and there were news brought to Scan­derberg's Camp that Amurat had more rejoyced at it than at the gaining of se­veral Battels, having now in his power what to affright Arianissa with: That fair Princess had suffered a thousand sorrows since Scanderberg's departure; and the Emperour's violent desires could not have been resisted but by an extra­ordinary [Page 81] Virtue, such as hers: But all her pass'd sufferings were but slight, compar'd with her affliction for her Father's Captivity. Amurat sent for him; and Aranit, who had not seen Acomat, and was not acquainted with Arianissa's condition, look'd extreamly sad. Thou art vanquish'd and subdu'd to our Power, said the Sultan to him, and notwithstanding all the pride of thy Family, thou must stoop before us. Thou needs not thank Fortune, reply'd Aranit, which hath delivered into thy hands an unfortunate Victim, and which longs to be sacrificed: So many great Men as still remain in our Party, un­der Scanderberg's Conduct will find thee work enough. Tho' they have sur­prised us, replyed Amurat, yet thou may'st judge by thy present conditi­on of the inconsiderableness of their advantages; and that I have no great reason to fear them. But that is not the thing now: I will propose unto thee a safe way to free thy self. Thou canst not propose any, said Aranit, but what is shameful; and he that had murdered Arianissa—hold, interrupted Amurat, and do not ac­cuse me of a crime I was never guil­ty [Page 82] of Arianissa lives, but still so cru­el, that I want thy assistance to change her mind; thou shall see her, but thou must use this liberty for my service: I love her, I adore her, but the Ungrate­ful despises my flame with a cruel ob­stinacy. Reflect, Aranit, how shame­ful it is for such a Man as I to sigh, and suffer to no purpose, nor any take care of my resentments.

Aranit was no fit confident for A­murat: Scanderberg, his King and his Friend was in love with Arianissa, and was belov'd by her: These being thus, he was not capable of a base com­pliance: Thou knowest, said he, Chri­stians are seldom fearful, and that they seldom act against their Parole or Du­ty; how dear soever Arianissa may be to me, I would sooner see her dead than to bring her to grant thee thy re­quest. Hearing this discourse, which could be so easily understood, Amurat grew mad against Aranit: Tarry my Prisoner, since thou despisest my Prof­fers, said he to him; all Scanderberg's Power shall not be able to deliver thee, and thou shall quickly feel what desti­ny I prepare for thee. Then he sent him back into a private Tent, and com­manded [Page 83] he should be kept closely.

Having found the Father so resolute, he went to try whether the Daughter would prove also inflexible: Therefore he went to Arianissa, who knew not what had pass'd; Cruel Arianissa, said he to her, I prostrate my self to your feet, for the last time of my life, to de­sire some small favour from you, which I promise to retaliate, by releasing Ara­nit your Father, who is now my Priso­ner. Heavens! cry'd Arianissa, is this the last Affliction you prepared against me? And do you forsake the just party, to cast me still into new Troubles? A­lass! dear Father, Why did not my Death prevent your Misfortune? You may dispose of his Destiny, reply'd Amu­rat, and it depends wholly upon your Behaviour. Reflect earnestly upon this, do not despise mine Anger; and tho you need not fear the loss of your Death, yet fear that of Auranit's. Ty­rant, reply'd the Princess full of sorrow and indignation, what hath my Father done against thee? Is this the use thou oughtest to make of what Power the chance of War hath given thee over him? Alass! he is falln into this dan­ger only to deliver me: Endeavour then [Page 84] on your side his Deliverance, reply'd A­murat, since I am resolv'd to be cruel except you favour me; either you must love, or see Aranit dye. Is this thy way of gaining love, reply'd the fair Arianissa? is Cruelty such a pleasing Charm, and must we offend the Person by whom we desire to be loved? Give some occasion to my Heart to be grate­ful, boast sooner of thy Services than thy Rage, to the end thou may'st up­braid me with some reason. You have taken so little notice of my Sufferings, reply'd the Sultan, that I intend to fol­low no more that course. If you are still the same, I will not warrant you of my Fury; but if you change, you may expect any thing from me, and dispose at your pleasure, of my Soul and Em­pire: Well, answered Arianissa, let me see my Father. Tho' I ought to refuse this Favour, to a person who never granted me any; yet interrupted Amu­rat, I give you leave to see him, but do not forget when you embrace him, that his Life depends upon this inter­view: Take together such Resolutions as may be agreeable with my Designs. The Sultan went away without speaking any more, and ordered Arianissa should [Page 85] be brought to Aranit's Tent, not far from her's.

Four Years absence had made but an advantagious alteration in the Princess: And Aranit who knew well her Suffe­ring, wondred to find her so fair. Pre­sently she embraced her Fathers Knees, and weeped there abundantly: He em­braced her a thousand times, and took her up very lovingly. After he had sa­tisfied the first motions of Nature, I see you again at last, said he, dear Arianissa, after I have so long bewailed your loss, and lived in a sorrow proportioned to the cause thereof. If I have taken any care of my days, it was only to the end they might be serviceable to you. I have seen the Emperour of the Turks; I have heard, but I find not my self dispos'd to do what he desir'd.—Forgive me, my Lord, if I interrupt you to praise your Constancy, it is worthy of your self; but shall I see you dye, rather than give my self to Amurat? And ought I not to sacrifice the Peace of my Life to the safety of yours? What Arianissa, re­ply'd Aranit, could you resolve your self to be the Mistress of a Turkish Prince? How sorrowful would this sign of your love prove to me, and by preserving my [Page 86] life, how intollerable would you render it? I can lose it a thousand ways with­out glory; and you ought not to pre­serve it by so base means, since should I consent to it, I cannot but lose my good Fame amongst all honest Men. In a word, Arianissa, forsake sooner both my Life and yours, if there is any need. I trem­ble giving you this advice, but I should blush should I do otherwise. Remem­ber what you owe to the King of Alba­nia, to that Prince who before he knew you, had served you with so much respect. Alass! My Lord, I have forgotten nei­ther his Valour, nor his Services. Con­sider to what dreadful pass I am brought: Shall my love upbraid for ever my severe Vertue, by reason I have not saved your life when I could do it? And if I grant Amurat's desire, will not the whole World look upon me as upon a Princess perfidious, both to Heaven and Scander­berg? Alass! my Lord, what shall I do? That which I have advised to, an­swered the constant Aranit: But then I shall see you dye, said the Princess; no matter for that, reply'd Aranit, I shall dye without shame: Then both began to weep in a sad manner. The Eunuch's Witnesses of this sorrowful [Page 87] Conversation, put an end to it, and A­rianissa was like to dye, taking her last leave from her Father: Did I see you only, my Lord, to bid you an eternal farewell, cry'd the desolate Princess. Cruel Amurat, let me dye with Aranit: Moderate your Grief, reply'd the Prince, softly: We are not so far from Scan­derberg, you know what his Valour can do; go away my dear Arianissa, and ne­ver despair as long as he lives.

'Tis impossible to express Amurat's Rage, when he heard in what manner the Father and Daughter had spoke one to another: Am I Soveraign only, said he, to be hector'd by my Enemies? And shall I always see my Power insulted o­ver? Let them dye sooner; and tho' I cannot quench a Flame which I abhor, let my Reason at least condemn to an everlasting Grief the person that causes it; let the World see what Revenge I will take of a Captive, who does but in­crease Arianissa's hatred against me: Let him dye, I don't question but Scan­derberg, whom my Arms shall punish as a Fugitive Rebel, will resent this loss. Let Arianissa have a just reason to com­plain of me; heretofore she had only been the witness of my weakness, but now [Page 88] she shall see me spill her own Blood.

As soon as he had resolved this, he thought upon the means of bringing it to execution: He chose his Camp to be the Stage where that Tragedy was to be acted. The most usual kind of Death among the Turks is Strangling; but such Executions are frequently very private: That would not serve the Sul­tan's turn, who intended to shew pub­lickly his Cruelty, that Arianissa might be the witness thereof.

The next day all things were prepa­red for Aranit's death; a Scaffold was erected in the middle of the Camp, which was encompassed by the Janissary's, and other Souldiers of the Guard; Amurat took a convenient place to see his Or­ders executed, and the desolate Arianis­sa was brought near him. The Sultan kept always his dreadful looks upon her, but she turned hers towards Heaven to implore its Assistance.

A strange Spectacle was offer'd to their sight. Aranit appeared in such a mise­rable condition, that it could not but shake his Daughter's Constancy: He was loaded with huge Chains, had his hands tyed, and his head uncovered, but he seemed neither cast down nor af­frighted [Page 89] at this barbarous usage: He walk't with a sedate countenance, as de­spising his Enemies; but when he saw Arianissa so frighted, almost drowned in her Tears, and almost dead for Grief, he grew pale, and pityed the deplora­ble condition of that lovely Princess, who had always been the dearest Object of his Hopes and Love; he wept, but his great courage could not allow of such Tears, and presently he wiped them off. He was no more discountenanced then, than if he had been at the head of his Ar­my; and recovering his former Tran­quillity, he lifted up his Voice that he might be heard by the Sultan, the Prin­cess, and the rest of the Assistance. Ari­anissa, said he to her, do not think this seems either cruel or shameful to me; I find therein both glory and pleasure, since you see there an Example of which you can make some use: Hide those Tears from me, which argue your weak­ness: You are my Daughter, but remem­ber also that you are a Princess, that rank where Heaven has set you, requires both constancy and a great resolution; you will see me no more, 'tis true, but let this consideration comfort you, That no base Action will blemish the Glory [Page 90] of my Life; come to your self, dear Arianissa, live for Scanderberg's sake; nay, dye for him, if there is need, as I am confident he would do for you. As for the Emperour of the Turks, said he, turning himself towards Amurat, a Prince born from so many Heroe's, from whom thou degenerates so much, and whose Cruelty thou only imitatest; learn from my Death to despise Life. Yesterday I was with the valiant Scanderberg, whose very presence dissipates Fear and Ter­rour, and behold now I am submitted to a Tyrant who trembles at the least thing.

Let him dye and perish, cry'd out the Emperour, and let him be punished for his pride. Then the Executioners went about to obey his Orders, and the fair Arianissa falling into a Swound, was car­ryed to the Tent where she had al­ways been.

But whilst they were preparing to execute Aranit, many repeated out-cry's of the farthest Sentinels, signify'd Scan­derberg's coming, who had enjoyed no rest since Aranit's Captivity: His Forces brought again to fight, did march with a warlike Constancy, which struck terror into the first that saw them. Amurat's [Page 91] Camp was soon in a great fright; he was resolved to hasten Aranit's Executi­on; but Orcan, who could prevail the best upon his mind, got it to be suspend­ed, judging it would be convenient to keep him alive: He was therefore brought back again, and Amurat put on his Arms, having still considerable For­ces left, which were soon in a posture of Defence.

Scanderberg broke like Thunder through whole Squadrons; Amurat was mightily afraid of his rencounter, and therefore went another way, leaving Or­can to deal with Scanderberg: The va­liant Thopia attacked the Sultan, and let him know the King of Albania was well seconded. The Turks turned back every where, confusion and horrour had seized them; Amurat seeing there was no hope of the Victory left him, ran to Arianissa's Tent with a barbarous in­tent, but could not find her there; and was strangely amazed when he heard, that Musselman whom he took to be far from thence, had stoln her away: Be­sides this Grif, he was put to a shameful flight; Scanderberg remained the only Master of the Field and Bagage; he saw Aranit, but could not find Arianissa. Who [Page 92] can express his Sorrow, when he saw all his Attempts fruitless, and so much Blood spilt to no purpose, and when he heard in whose hands she had faln? He took this at first for a trick of the Sul­tan, who being defeated, hided Arianis­sa's condition: Considering this, he was resolved to root out his Souldiers before they had time to breath, but some Turkish Prisoners told him for cer­tain, that Musselman had gotten her away.

Scanderberg could not but think, that Musselman had no design to bring her into Amurat's Territories, or tarry in Albania; he feared all things; and the knowledge he had of Musselman's temper, did but increase his dreadful trouble: To comfort himself, he em­braced Aranit, who acquainted him with his past Dangers. After he had settled his Camp, and left the distribution of the Pillage to the greedy Souldiers, every one endeavoured to divert his Sorrow. Thopia was more busie in it than any: You were never acquainted with Love, said the Prince of Albania to Thopia, and therefore you cannot imagine my Sorrow; Thopia blushed at this reproach, which he was so far from deserving, since [Page] no heart was more addicted to that Pas­sion than his. I am more acquainted with Love than you think, my Lord, re­ply'd he; and because I know its effects, I pity you more than any. My Lord, reply'd Ʋranus, whose only desire was to divert the King from those sad thoughts, to convince the King of the truth of what you say; pray let him hear your love Adventures. I shall hear them, said the King to Thopia with pleasure and attention, howsoever pre­possessed I may be; and if you are not a fortunate Lover, my own Experience will teach me to commiserate you. My Lord, answered Thopia, both my Love and Fortune wholly depend upon your pleasure, and the account which I am to give you by your Command, will make you more sensible of that Truth.

The History of THOPIA.

WAS Love a voluntary Passion, my Lord, and could we rule the motions of our Hearts according to the advices of Reason, we should never pich upon any choice without first consulting her. First of all, I must needs tell you, my Lord, that I love the Princess A­sa, [Page] and that all my respect could never stop my passion. I beg humbly your Pardon.—I do forgive you with all my heart, reply'd the King, and I can­not but admire my Sister's Happiness, to possess such a Noble Heart. Thopia then fell upon his Knees, but being taken up by Scanderberg, he went on after this manner.

I hell'd a considerable rank in King Castriot's Court, upon my Fathers ac­count; and after you had been sent to Amurat, I was look't upon as the chiefest of the Princes of Albania. I was surnamed Carlomus, which signifies in the Sclavoni­an Tongue happy, either because I was very aimable in mine Infancy, or because I was sprung from the Noble Blood of Charlemayne.

The King who could see you no more, never look't upon me without sighing, and without complaining of that cruel Law, which deprived him of your pre­sence. The Princesses Angelina, Zella, and Ʋlacia, your Sisters, comforted the Queen Vorsana, being already come to years of reason, since they were soon after marry'd to three illustrious Hus­bands: But the young Amissa was still in her first Infancy, so fair and charming, [Page] that one could not look upon her with­out loving and admiring her. I fell in love with her as soon as I was sensible of any Reason, and our free Conver­sation did but increase my Passion.

The Prince Musachius my Father, who had had me in his old Age, when he had no hopes of any Son, was so over­ioyed with the advantage of having a [...]on, that all the care he took, was a­ [...]t mine Education.

All Amissa's Actions seemed charm­ing to me, and I wisht mine had not displeas'd her: I was a long while be­fore I could acquaint her with my Pas­sion, and whatsoever my complaisance towards her might be, she was to young to guess the meaning of it.

As for me, a little more Age and Ex­perience had taught me to distinguish Love from Friendship; and Time ac­quainted the Princess, that one doe's not sigh without Love: In my younger Age I had shewn but a quiet joy at her sight, but as soon as I came to my six­teenth year, she observed I was melan­cholly and perplexed.

She was used to go very often with her Governants, to divert her self a fishing in the great Pond, which was in [Page] the middle of the Palace of Croya; I follow'd her there one day, and whilst her waiting Women were talking at some distance from us, I saw her longer than an hour apply only her self to that Exercise: She was so fair, that I look'd upon her with an extraordinary atten­tion, and in that pleasing occupation, I sighed so loud, that Amissa who could catch nothing, and was vexed at it, tur­ned angrily her head towards me; Thopia, said she to me, I think you affright the Fishes, and the noise of your Sighs spoils all my sport. Alas! Madam, re­ply'd I, how can they hear what you do not hearken to. 'Tis possible enough, reply'd she, that I hear you without hearkning to you: If you hear my Sighs, Madam, said I, I am certain you do not understand the meaning of them, and I should be too happy were you ac­quainted with that Secret. The Prin­cess left her Fishing to look upon me more earnestly; and casting one ob­liging look upon me, I esteem you so far as to pity you for your misfor­tunes, said she, and to rejoyce at your advantages: And I am willing to know that Secret, if you think I may serve you therein. Madam, reply'd I, I will [Page 97] then impart it to your kindness, and tell you, that you are the cause of my suffer­ings. I the cause of your sufferings, cry'd the young Princess, with a kind of amazement, mixed with fear, Alas! Thopia, how can that be, since I bear you so good a will? I do not tell you, Madam, added I, that they are caused by your will. I suffer, tho' you do not intend to make me suffer. You puzzle me strangely, re­plyed Amissa, and I must confess my Wit is not piercing enough, to appre­hend that Mystery. I perceive, Madam, added I, trembling, that my mouth must be my heart's interpreter. I love you, and those sighs which trouble your in­nocent sport, proceeds only from that extraordinary love you have inspir'd me with; this passion is almost as old as I, and I was sensible of it, before I did know my self. Alas! Thopia, replyed the Princess with a charming innocence, do not talk to me about Love, it has been represented always to me, after such a manner, that I will shun it like a Mon­ster, and if you desire I should see you, you must rid your self of it. 'Tis im­possible, Madam, reply'd I, I should part with it, and I perceive, I am its slave for the rest of my life. But, Madam, [Page 98] do you think, a Passion, which you inspire me with, can be any thing frightful? that Love which hath been drawn to you, was no such Love as mine, nor the effect of divine Amissa's Charms. If there is any horror to be found therein, it concerns me alone, and it proceeds from the fear of displeasing you. But, Thopia, replyed the Princess, what do you desire from me? Your pity, Madam, added I, and a Confession from your mouth, that you accept of my Services with some joy. I profess to you, answe­red the Princess, that I do not appre­hend half of what you say, and that I want many Lessons to understand this matter; did your heart tutor you so well, added I, as mine does me, you would be soon as great a Scholar in it as I, I promise you replyed she smiling, to impart to you all that it shall teach me, in the mean time suppress your sighs, and help me to conquer the ill luck I have to day.

I was well pleased with this conver­sation, and I did what ever I could to satisfie Amissa. At last the enchantment ended, and we caught fishes a pace, so that we entered into the Palace very well contented.

[Page 99] Since that day, the Princess made some Reflections, which opened her eyes. She had always looked upon me, as upon a young Prince, with whom she was allowed to live familiar, but after that my discourse, my actions, and her own reason had acquainted her, that I was in love with her, and when she considered the consequences which would follow the Courtship of a de­clared Lover, she took a severe Coun­tenance, and tho' she never shew'd any hatred against me, yet I could not per­ceive in her that innocent kindness, which till then had flatter'd my hopes.

I was soon sensible of this Change, which is imputed to indifferency; some time pass'd before I could complain, but my grief prevailing upon my patience, at last I spoke thus to the Princess. Ma­dam, said I to her, you have taught me to love, but I am afraid, I have taught you to hate, and except your kindness take my part, I fear lest your rigour deprives me of the Liberty of seeing you. Are these the lessons you have learnt from your heart, and did you consult it only to render it mine Ene­my? You will never be able to teach me to hate; but, My Lord, replyed she, I [Page 100] don't care you should teach me to love; but suppose I am now a little more re­served, ought you to wonder at it? 'Tis enough, Thopia, said she, casting an obliging look upon me, that there is no other difference between what I was, and what I am. I know not whether this Kindness is a Lesson from my heart, but as long as it shall not inspire me with any thing inconsistent with my Duty, you need not fear I should take any resolutions contrary to your inte­rest. I found so much reason in this dis­course, that it increased both my Love and Respect. It would be both ungrate­ful and rude in me, said I, to ask any more, since only my services, and mo­desty ought to speak for me.

Amissa seemed pleased with this an­swer, but whilst I was abandoning en­tirely my self to that passion, and she look'd upon me, as a man who was worthy to serve her, Fate prepared it self to cross us.

Castriot, who had married the Prin­cesses his daughters with some Albanian Princes, could hardly have found a Fa­mily more worthy of his Alliance than ours. The Queen, who loved more ten­derly Amissa than the others, fearing [Page 101] lest some Reason of State should re­move her into a Forreign Country, li­ked my passion well enough; but the King, who had some different designs, took measures quite opposite to hers.

Among those that were of some note at Croya, Balsé, a Prince as well as I, had become Castriot's Favourite, he was no man of great Vices, nor of an ex­traordinary Virtue, and the only thing that got him in favour, was his affected complyance. He was ten years older than I, and was not handsome to please the Eyes of a nice Princess. Yet Ca­striot had chosen him for Amissa's Hus­band, and had thought that his Sons being absent, Epirus and Albania could not have a better Protector.

Some Broils then call'd us to the War, I was none of the unwillingest to go, sacrificing my Passion to Glory, and to the desire of deserving Amissa. I did not part from her without Sorrow, and I believe she was also sensible of my departure. Balsé commanded our Army, and because there were but few Fron­tiere-places revolted, it was not very Numerous. I did not then look upon him as my Rival, yet I had no love for him; he had, may be, no greater [Page 102] share in the Victories we got, than I, and the others that served, but he was rewarded a great deal better. Arriving to Croya, I found the Princess Amissa af­flicted, for Arianissa's loss, whom a Caravanne of Turks had stoln away in a Voyage, which her Father had imposed upon her without any necessity.

About that time, My Lord, the whole world spake of you with admira­tion, and your Conquests, both in Asia and Africa, amazed the most experien­ced Souldiers. Castriot had then good reason to sigh, seeing that what Ser­vices you did for an Infidel, might have proved so useful for Christendom. The Princess wished your return, and when I would commend you in her pre­sence, Pity that Illustrious Brother, would she say, that his valour should be engaged to serve a man of a barbarous extraction, and who knows little what belongs to gratitude, and friendship. Pity me at the same time for loving him as much as I do, and for having no hopes to see him again.

But, My Lord, 'tis time to relate to you my Sorrows; the King your Fa­ther, who thought he was mightily be­holding to Balsé, prepared to do any thing for him.

[Page 103] This formidable Rival for reason of Castriot's protection, began to court the Princess in such a manner, that I was deprived of the liberty I had before. As soon as I saw he had declared himself, I was sensible of my misfortune, and tho' he was a King's Favourite, yet I defired my Father to do something for my love. He loved me too tenderly to deny me any thing I asked, and without object­ing to me all that I ought to fear, he did partly what I desired.

I went to expect with the Princess the event of my Father's design. I sound her sorrowful, and melancholy. You are afflicted, Madam, said I to her, and that trouble which appears in your eyes signifies as much. Yes, Prince, replyed she, with a sad Countenance, I am cruel­ly perplexed. Can I without offending you, ask you the Cause thereof, reply­ed I? You will know it too soon, and if you are a little concerned for me, what will you say, when you hear I am near to marry Balsé? This discourse, like a thunder, struck me almost dead, and I was so little prepared for it, that this surprise stopt my blood, and one could see upon my Face, the signs of a real despair. The Princess [Page 104] was moved at it. Alas! Thopia, said she, looking sadly upon me, how dear am I like to pay for my Obedience to my Fathers Commands? Madam, said I, are you then resolved to marry Balsé, and by a Scruple of Virtue will you sooner renounce your own happiness, than resist Castriot's will? Would you have me, replyed she, incur his indig­nation by a rebellious resistance? Tho' you might love me the better for it, yet I am sure you would esteem me the less, and you know your self well enough, that a Daughter of my rank, cannot dispose of her own Fate. I know, I adore you, Madam, said I, and I shall dye for grief, if Balsé injoy a Fortune he has never deserved. What great advantages above me can that Fortu­nate Rival boast of? I am certain, I give him none, interrupted Amissa, and were you only to strive with my inclination, you would soon be a Con­queror. But, Thopia, you know Castriot is my Father, and what power he has over me. What shall I do, replyed I, if you marry Balsé, you shall see me no more, or at most? You shall see me only in publick places, replyed the Princess. And if I live, I shall live the most un­fortunate [Page 105] person in the World. Can you, Madam, give your self to him, replyed I, somewhat angry? Yes, without doubt, interrupted Amissa, and I see nothing can dispense me from that Duty, if Ca­striot requires it of me. Cruel Princess, said I, you know well enough I cannot live after that; must I also adore your Fortunate Husband, as I do every thing that belongs to you? Did you know my hearts Condition, replyed she, you would not be so passionate, and you would sooner endeavour to comfort it. My trouble does not proceed from any affectation. However you are more for­tunate then I, since you are not for­ced to give your self to one you hate, and since you may sigh without crime. In my present confusion, I know not, said I, what to say, nor what to think. All things seem guilty to me, and I cannot but accuse my self, believing heaven would never punish me unde­servedly. After that I asked the Prin­cess, how she came to know Balsé's good Fortune? And she told me, that after he had often spoke to her about his love, but in vain, the King at last had declared himself for him, notwith­standing the Queen's aversion to it, [Page 106] and that he had commanded the Prin­cess to look upon Balsé as upon a Prince whom he designed for her future Hus­band.

I perceived then that all my Father's endeavours would prove fruitless, and I was grievously afflicted at this. Amis­sa seemed also very sensible of my sor­row, and her kindness did but give me a greater sense of my loss.

Against my custom I was glad to leave her, intending to go to the Queen, who had always been kind to me, to implore her assistance. I was told she was in the Gardens, therefore going that way, I met my Father, whose me­lancholy Countenance did but increase my trouble: He confirm'd unto me the King's resolution in Balse's behalf, and exhorted me to take patiently a mis­fortune which could not be helpt. In the same minute I saw my Rival appear, follow'd by many Courtiers, drawn there by his fair hopes; my colour chang'd, and my Father sensible of my violent commotion, forbad me to enter into any conversation with Balsé: what could I have promised him, since I was mastered by a Passion I could no longer bridle? It was well I did not attack [Page 107] my Rival in his presence; but as soon as he disappear'd I abandoned my self to Wrath and Jealousie. I found Balsé in the Garden where I was looking for the Queen. Could I speak one word with you, said I? Yes, replyed he, without any apparent amazement. I know, said I, that you are design'd to possess the only thing that may render you the most glorious Man in the World: But you don't know, it may be, that I sigh for the Princess Amissa these many years ago, and that you must deprive me of my life sooner than obtain her. I did not think, replyed Balsé, in a scornful manner, which vex­ed me to the very heart, that the de­signs of a great King were to be cross'd thus. For my part, I, who know how I am to obey, ought to take the great­est care to perform my duty. Do not conclude from hence, that I don't care to fight with you; you shall have that satisfaction: But, Thopia, you will not take it ill if I defer it till Marriage hath given me a full possession of Amissa.

Having thus spoke to me, he left me scornfully; and I was so much cast down at those words, that I could not attack him at present. The Place was [Page 108] a Sacred Place, and I was fain to curb my Passions. As they were acting with­in me with the greatest violence, the Queen came, and I went to her in a trouble which she easily took notice of. That generous Princess cast a sad look upon me; and leaving her Gentleman-Usher to give me her hand, she did not ask the reason of my sorrow, which she easily guessed, but let me know how afflicted she was at the King's preposses­sion in Balsé's behalf, assuring me, that if she had had the disposal of my good Fortune, she had not deferred it a mo­ment. I wish, said she, I could pro­cure your satisfaction with the loss of my own Blood; but we have a Master obstinate in his resolutions, and who will be obeyed. I have strove against them as much as I could, but all to no purpose, and I cannot but condole with you. The paleness and the despair that appeared upon my face at the hearing of these words cast the Queen into a great fright. Madam, said I to her, my misfortunes are so great that 'tis like they will also prove fatal to Balsé, and all the respect I owe to the King's order can never prevent my resentment. Castriot came afterwards, follow'd by [Page 109] the Princess, and I retir'd in that sad condition.

Amissa, who saw me retire, easily perceiv'd my trouble, since I seemed to shun her presence. I spent that night in the greatest trouble imaginable. I had a thousand several Projects in my Head; at last I resolved to render A­missa's possession impossible for Balsé. I had seen him in several occasions, but I never had the least fear his arms should triumph over me as his favour did: In fine, I rose up at the break of day, and went to tarry for him near the Palace where he was used to go every Morning. Balsé, said I, as soon as I saw him, we must fight for Amissa, and you will never be happy before you have killed me. Then I drew my Sword, my Rival was forced to do the same, and we fought with e­qual courage and advantage; we wound­ed one another in several places; and tho' they endeavour'd to part us, yet our fight lasted so long, that it exhaust­ed the greatest part of our strength. Balsé at last fell at my feet; and tho' I stood up still, yet I was in a sad condi­tion; a crowd of people coming then carried us both away.

[Page 110] The King shewed such a great resent­ment to my Father, who endeavour'd to justifie me, that his great grief cast him into a Fever, which brought him to the Grave. I durst not appear, and this increas'd my despair. The Queen and Princess sent me word how much concerned they were for me: But no­thing could satisfie Castriot but my death, should Balsé live no longer; his wounds were more considerable than mine; I was curld in a short time, notwithstand­ing my grief, but all the care they took of him could not prevent his death.

Then, my Lord, I could no longer tarry in Croya, or in any other place of Albania; Castriot had no regard for my Love, nor Services, nor Birth, and granting some tears to Balsé's death, he fully resolved my own. The Princess, whom he suspected to favour me, felt his severity; even the Queen her self underwent his reproaches.

I thought it very hard to hide my self for a glorious action, and I had fallen into a despair, if the Princess, who could obtain any thing from me, and who knew well I was not out of Croya, where I was carefully sought after, and who feared Castriot's resentment, had [Page 111] not prescrib'd a Law which I could not resist. I receiv'd her orders in a Let­ter written with her own hand, which was delivered to me with a great deal of circumspection.

Tho' absence seemed to me a more cruel pain than any that Castriot's wrath could prepare, yet I resolved to obey the Princess, and to acquaint her with it, I sent her this answer.

I wished I could have taken my leave of Amissa, but the then present Juncture of Affairs would not allow of a pri­vate interview. I parted from Croya with a sound body, but a heart full of grief. I took with me some of my faithful Servants, abandoning whatever my Father had left me. There was then no War in any place of Europe, and having no certain Design, I was led at last by my profound Melancholy into a part of Greece; as I was thinking up­on a larger Journey, I heard of Ca­striot's death. How unjust soever he [Page 113] had been against me, I was afflicted at the News; I had returned to Croya, if Amurat's Tyranny, who had possess'd himself of all Albania, had not put an invincible stop to my Designs. The Queen and Amissa were made Captives, and having no Forces to defend, I went every where to make some interest for them, and made at last that Party, which I brought to you after the Queen's Death, which oppressed me almost with grief, entirely honouring her, and knowing how sensible Amissa would be of this Misfortune.

In fine, my Lord, I was Witness of your immortal Actions; I saw Amissa again, whom I found the same, and who told me, that my happiness whol­ly depended upon your pleasure. This is that History, my Lord, you desired to know, you are both my King and Master, but besides you are the Sove­reign Umpire of my Felicity.

Scanderberg embraced Thopia as soon as he had made an end of his Relation, and assured him, that he might possess Amissa when he pleased, and that no­thing would be so acceptable to him as his Union.

[Page 114] But tho' Scanderberg's violent passion had been diverted for a while by Tho­pia's Relation, yet it soon recovered its former strength, the sorrowful Aranit was much concerned, and they were but little pleased at the gain of the Battel, since their hopes were furstra­ted.

Acomat wondred that Musselman, who had so many reasons to fear the Sultan's wrath, should be so rash as to enter his Camp, and carry away Arianissa, be­ing not acquainted with all the particu­lars of his Life, he could give no com­fort to the King of Albania.

In the mean time this Prince could see the Turks had departed, that his Army was not much weakned, and that Croyae had nothing to fear; being thus free to act as he pleased, he could not resolve himself to tarry, till he had heard some News concerning Arianissa, and resolved to venture any thing to find her out. My Lord, says he to Ara­nit, our common interest requires mine absence; as things stand now, there is no danger Amurat should attempt any thing, but we ought to fear all things from the treacherous Musselman. We must deliver Arianissa from his Tyran­ny, [Page 115] and I am weary of my life, when I think she is in his power. Aranit was far from opposing this resolution, and Scanderberg prepared himself to depart with the fortunate Thopia, who would never forsake him. Ʋranus followed them also, and Acomat, who could not with Honour follow his Master's Ene­mies, tarried with Aranit as a Prisoner of War.

The King of Alhania would not take many Souldiers along with him, for fear of being known, his Equipage was not very great; but he found himself in an exceeding trouble, concerning the way he ought to take; he was sen­sible that Musselman had fled from A­murat, and that it was to no purpose to seek him among the defeated Army; it was not likely neither, that this Ra­visher should retire into the Emperour's Territories, or tarry in Albania. In this uncertainty he wholly trusted him­self to Chance: not certain of the suc­cess of his Enterprize, and going he knew not where, he found in several places many Companies of the Turks scattered, and returning to Amurat. He was three days without taking any rest, and all his inquiries being to no pur­pose, he began to despair.

[Page 116] But he was not the only man that sought Arianissa. Prince Mahomet see­ing her out of his Father's hands, de­sired to get her for himself, and look'd upon Musselman as upon a light obsta­cle, could he but meet with him. Amu­rat, tho' sorely afflicted at his losses, sent several Parties after him; but the young Sultan, led by his own heart's in­terest, took that licence followed only by twenty men.

At first he was not more fortunate than Scanderberg, and travelled over a spacious Country to no purpose; at last being arrived in a savage place, which properly may be called a Wilderness, he heard some noise over his head, and saw Musselman retrenched in a steep Rock hurrying Arianissa with violence, and striving to get her, notwithstanding all her resistance, into a Den, where the Sun had never shone.

Mahomet had an Ottoman Soul (that is, haughty and cruel) as the rest of his Life witnessed. The injury done to a fair Princess, whom he loved dearly, inspired him with the utmost Fury, and crying very loud, he would fain have gone to Musselman, but he saw every where inaccessible Precipices. Aria­nissa [Page 117] and Musselman hearing that noise, look'd upon him. The Princess hated all the Turks, but she had a lesser aver­sion against Mahomet than against the Bostangi-Bachi; the Prince who saw her desolate, and oppressed with grief, made many attempts, which did not affright Musselman; but Heaven, who had designed that day for the punish­ment of the greatest Rogue in the World, brought Scanderberg and his Men in the place where the Prince Ma­homet was, it vexed them to see one a­nother there, but the King of Albania soon perceived Arianissa. Who could express his commotion at this sight? or Musselman's rage? The Precipices that were round him, seem'd to secure his Cruelty; but such as they were, he did not think they were inaccessible for the passionate Scanderberg. Just Heavens, cry'd he, favour my Passion, and since you grant me to see Arianissa, grant me also that I may deliver her from that cruel Tyrant. Then he cast his eyes all round about, and seeing a by­way difficult, but less dangerous than the rest, followed it hastily. Thopia, Ʋranus, and the rest followed his steps, and Mahomet, who would not be an [Page 118] useless Spectator, went after them, tho it was a long circuit, and tho' Mussel­man affrighted, threatned to carry away Arianissa, the couragious Princess hin­dered his design. Scanderberg saw ma­ny of his Men fall, and bruise them­selves upon the Rocks; but this did not abate his Courage, and at last he found a way easier and broader, which led him to Arianissa.

But alas! those were not all the ob­stacles he was to met with, and Mussel­man's Fury was more to be feared than those Precipices he had overcome al­ready. That barbarous man, tho' he had a far greater number of men, than those that had followed the two Prin­ces, yet could not trust on his own strength: a hellish rage possess'd his Soul, and seeing he was undone, he resolved to undo all. With this reso­lution, he seized Arianissa's arm, and drawing a Cymeter, Scanderberg, said he to her, with his scared looks, shall never see thee alive, or enjoy those fa­vours thou designest for him. Thou cannot affright me, in threatning me with death, replied Arianissa, with a se­rene countenance, but tremble for thine own. I look upon it as certain, replied [Page 119] the Turk, but Scanderberg's hand shall never sacrifice me.

The King of Albania was still draw­ing nearer, and could already hear them. Musselman perceiving him, bad him stop if he desired Arianissa's life. The Prince, who saw his Cymeter, and who was well enough acquainted with the Turks temper, to expect all sorts of cruelties from them, was strangely surprised, and durst go no farther. A­rianissa seeing him stop, and fearing lest too much love should make him easily leave her, exhorted him to advance. Come, my Lord, cryed she to him, Musselman is too faint hearted to attempt any thing upon my life, but suppose he was not, I would sooner die than submit to him. Mahomet, who had also drawn near, and who was not so much concerned for the loss of her life, tho' he was migh­tily in love, would have advanced far­ther; but Scanderberg bad him imperi­ously not to advance rashly, lest he should consider him as Arianissa's Mur­derer. The Prince advanced no more, and Musselman seeing the well ground­ed fear of his Rivals grew the more insolent. King of Albania, said he, if thou lovest Arianissa's life, thou must al­low [Page 120] me to retire freely with her, since I swear to thee by all that may ren­der an Oath inviolable, that I shall not spare her, if thou goest a step farther. O barbarous! cry'd the Prince, is this your way of loving and deserving her? How cunningly thou knowest how to make use of my Love and thy Cow­ardise! Depart Monster, go far from hence, since Arianissa's safety requires it; but at least respect her Virtue and Rank. Can you forsake me so, cryed out Aranit's fair Daughter, and do you think, Scanderberg, that I am so much in love with my life as to chuse to live with this Monster? How blame­worthy is your faint-heartedness! Must my own example encourage you? If you do not come to me, I will go meet either Death or you; then she at­tempted to get loose out of Mussel­man's hands, but her strength was not sufficient: Musselman foresaw then his certain ruine: Love, said he, without any more ado, guide mine Arm: Then he lifted it up to stab Aranissa in the breast; and he had certainly done it, if the affectionate Thopia, whose mind was more sedate than Scanderberg's, fore­seeing the effects of Musselman's rage, [Page 121] had not taken secretly a by way, and got in that critical minute so near him that he struck him, and sent both his Arm and Dagger to Arianissa's Feet; another blow divided Musselman's Face in two, so that he gave up his unclean Soul with his cruel Blood.

Those that were there present were so amazed at this wonderful Action that they took Thopia for a Man sent down from Heaven: But Scanderberg, whose terrour was converted into a sudden joy, ran to embrace Arianissa's Deliverer before he went to her self. 'Tis impossible for us to relate all the obliging things they told one another. Scanderberg, to shew his great passion, prostrated himself at Arianissa's Feet, and uttered the most passionate expres­sions that his heart could invent. She embraced him obligingly, at which fa­vour Mahomet was sorely vexed. Tho­pia received from Arianissa such Praises and Elogiums as his Action well de­served; and Scanderberg shewed him all the imaginable demonstrations of joy and friendship. The Turks who had follow'd Musselman fled away, but they were not pursued. Mahomet did sigh, having no hope left him; and seeing [Page] there was now no likelihood to pa [...] Arianissa from Scanderberg: Cru [...] Fortune, cryed he, why must I be the witness of their Felicity? Must I forsake for ever a Beauty whom I have so long ador'd? Having made this sorrowful reflection, he came near Scanderberg with as much freedom as he might have done at Andrianople. Tho' we are both Enemies and Rivals, said he to him, I fear nothing from thee which might be unworthy of a Prince whom all the World admires, and without any base submission I must tell thee, I esteem thee, tho' without love. Compare my condition to think own, and grant that I am an unfortunate Man, since neither in my Father's Dominions, nor in this place. I have any hopes left me. Could a reasonably expect to fight for her with success, and gain her favour, the Ottoman Blood which runs in my veine should never be allarmed at thy valour. I see you must remain Conquerour, and since thou hast triumphed over Amurat, you can never be vanquished, and I cannot but be unfortunate for ever.

These words which could not proceed but from a noble heart, made a [Page] deep impression upon Scanderberg; he had always been sensible of Mahomet's excellent Virtues, which answered well his Illustrious Birth; and seeing that he could not in reason upbraid him of his Pride; My Lord, said he to him, I shall never hate you, tho' you can never love me; and I would willing­ly part with any thing besides Aria­nissa for your satisfaction. Time, in­terrupted Mahomet, will without doubt afford us some occasions to see one a­nother again. In the mean time, en­joy your Arianissa, whom I cannot take away from you. Having spoke these words, away he rode, and was soon out of sight with his Men.

Scanderberg resolved to tarry no long­er in a place where Arianissa had been so sadly allarmed, and which was like to have proved fatal to her. They told one another a thousand obliging things; and they chose the fairest Horse for the beautiful Princess, who rode towards Croya, with her illustrious Lo­ver, leaving Musselman's Corps to be devoured by wild Beasts, wherewith those Desarts were full.

Tho' Arianissa was not used to any hard exercise, yet she rode a long way [Page] within a short time; and she cou [...] hardly be perswaded to take any [...] at night; the strong desire she [...] to see Aranit, Amissa, and her other dear Relations, made her long to arrive at Croya. During that Journey which lasted two days and a night, Scanderberg had now the opportunity [...] knowing his own good fortune, and Arianissa's tender love. Thopia was as well pleased as he; and never did [...] greater tranquillity succeed trouble which were thought endless.

In fine, Scanderberg brought into Croya without meeting with any opposition, his fair Princess: All the People of the City went in great crowds to see her, and to congratulate him upon his return. Aranit then the most fortunate of Fathers, told Scanderberg, That since he had deserved so well his Daughter she belonged by right to him: Amissa and Arianissa kissed and embraced one another for a long while; and Thopia, who had been so glorious an Instru­ment in procuring Scanderberg's Happi­ness, receiv'd from Amissa such prote­stations of Love as he deserved.

Croya, where Sorrow had reigned during the War, and Scanderberg's Grief, [Page 125] then quite alter'd, Pleasures and Sports had now their time, and all possible en­deavours were made to divert Arianissa, who had led before such a sorrowful life. Among all these pleasing Diversions, Scanderberg neglected nothing concern­ing his important Affairs; and whilst Amurat was hearing what had pass'd, and was taking new resolutions, both a­gainst the Life and Fortune of the King of Albania, this Prince who now enjoy'd his dear Arianissa, kept his Army in a capacity of resisting all the Ottoman Forces.

He knew not what had pass'd at An­drinople since his departure thence: A­rianissa who had seen Acomat, and be­wailed the Death of the Loyal Aradin, was willing to satisfy Scanderberg's Cu­riosity; one Evening being with Amissa and Thopia, who had heard her former Adventures, she thus related the last to the King of Albania.

The History of ARIANISSA.

AS I had passionately wished for your departure from Andrinople, so was I overjoy'd at the News of it, since you ought not to expect there any fa­vour; [Page 126] and tho' I could not absolutely flatter my self with the Idea of a future Liberty, yet I had some glimmering hope still left me. Aradin and I congra­tulated one another upon this occasion; but the fearful Sultan fell into an exceed­ing Rage, when he heard you had been proclaimed King by the Albanians.

As his wrath increased, so did his troublesome and imperious Sollici­tations: He did not question, but I had some secret Intelligence with you; and he suspected Aradin of having favour'd our Designs; he threatned him with Death, and me with the utmost Seve­rity, and so cast me often into dread­ful Fears.

Selimana seeing she had lost you for e­ver, endeavoured to regain the Sultan's Love; I did what I could to facilitate that Conquest unto her, yet she hated me as a dangerous Rival, who deprived her of the Sultan's Affection, and who likely had hindred you from loving her: She conjectured from the words which you heard me sing, and which truly pro­ceeded from my heart, that since the day you fought the Tartar, I had not look't upon you with indifference.

[Page 127] Prince Mahomet, who was no longer observed by you, and who feared only his Father's Jealousie, resolved to ven­ture any thing to see me; and the cun­ning Musselman got also into the Sera­glio, after the way I shall relate to you.

Amurat thought, that having no hope left of your return, I should never be able to resist him; but seeing all his moderation was to no purpose, after he had sighed, he began to threaten, and shew'd me all that cruel Pride natural to the Ottoman Blood. You try my patience too far, cruel and ungrateful Arianissa, said he one day to me, and you do not regard at all my kindness for you. Do you think I spare you by reason of my own weakness? No sure, but my Heart protects you against my Reason; you ought therefore to own your self obliged to me; otherwise I swear by all the Powers above, that I shall make use of all mine Authority, if your unkindness forces me to it.

This Discourse had been proceeded by so many of the like nature, that I did not look upon it as a new thing, but Amurat's countenance was quite chang­ed. Thou knowest well, that I never [Page 128] abused thy Highness, reply'd I, and that I never promised thee any thing; I am sensible both of thy Power and Dignity: But, my Lord, thou oughtest to know, That thou canst not require from me, but the respect due to thy Rank; I am no person of a mean Birth, and the Chains I am loaded with can­not depress my Courage; those Coun­tries which are subject to thy Power, afford thee Beauty's enough, whose on­ly desire is to please thee; thy Religi­on allows them that liberty, and their Inclinations are agreeable with the con­dition; as for me, Fortune only had made me thy Slave; I am not thy Sub­ject, if thou art just, and there are Laws above thine, which forbid me to favour a Mahometan. If Scanderberg did sit upon the Ottoman Throne, reply'd the angry Sultan, you would not be likely so nice; and all your Reasons about Independance and Constancy, would not prove so strong as you pretend them. Well, Arianissa, said he proudly, persist in your resoluti­on; but expect no longer from me any moderation, since I will have no more regard to your Sex, your Religion, or your Birth.

[Page 129] Being in such a humour, he left me; Selimana exasperated him by her Re­proaches, and both the Seraglio's were witnesses of his violent Rage.

Since the Conversation I had had with the Sultaness in the Garden, and which you heard: Our Friendship had not been great, because Amurat's love changed soon after, and for reason of the new rank which he forced me to take; she judged by what had happen'd in the Gar­den, where she had desir'd me to walk with her, when the Emperour met us, that you were no indifferent Person to me; she had look'd upon the Sultaness love, as upon a thing which authorized in some manner her freedom with me, and her in constancy: But when she knew that you lov'd me, and that I had some gratitude for you, she fell in a Rage a­gainst me, and call'd me perfidious and treacherous, because she had trusted me with the Secret of her own Heart.

Jealousie had soon inspir'd her with an immortal hatred against me, and I was like to feel its cruel Effects: You have deprived me of all my comfort, dange­rous Arianissa, said she one day to me, and you have rewarded the sincere confi­dence of my Heart with Perfidiousness; [Page 130] but believe what I say, this place in spires no moderation; and whatever kindness I am forced to shew you, may be soon changed into hatred. Fear mine, since you have so basely served me. I am so far from deserving these Re­proaches, reply'd I, with a sedate mind, that I feel neither remorses of Consci­ence, nor terrour at the hearing of them. My Behaviour had been always innocent; I never endeavoured to please the Sul­tan; and as for your confidence, Heaven knows whether I have abused it: But you loved Scanderberg, reply'd she, and when I acquainted you with my passion; you hid your Sentiments from me with a criminal Dissimulation: Suppose what you say was true, answer'd I, you have yet no reason to accuse me, did not your Jealousie blind you. Was I ob­liged to open my heart to you, by reason of your confidence, which I so little desired? And instead of complaining of me, ought you not to commend my prudence for not declaring my self your Rival? But Selimana, let us not trouble our selves any longer about what is past, or what is to come: Let us consider, that Scanderberg is like to be King of Albania, that we are Slaves, [Page 131] and that I would willingly give most of my Blood to regain you the Sultan's love; if you are acquainted with my endeavour, you may know how I deal with him. Alas! reply'd she, your on­ly desire is to see Scanderberg again, and that Crown you talk of, renders him more lovely to your Eyes: But tho' Fortune confines me here, you are also like to share the same Fate.

The Emperour who went by, inter­rupted us; he was that day in a rage that cannot be expressed, having heard of the new progress of your Valour; he upbraided me for it, without consider­ing the pleasure he gave me, by telling me of these News.

But, my Lord, 'tis time to acquaint you with a more remarkable passage: I was one night upon a little Terrass, which rendred mine Apartment very pleasant; the Emperour kept his Bed by reason of a violent Feaver, which proceeded from his Anger. I was thinking upon your Advantages, and I had spent part of the night in that pleasing Occupation, had I not been interrupted. I heard at the foot of the Terrass, a Voice, which I knew presently to be Amaldan's, because there [Page 132] was none sweeter than his in the Sera­glio, and by reason we had sung often together to divert Selimana, he sung but these four Verses, likely of his own making.

I hearkned to Amaldan; thinking he had no design; but turning my head at a little noise, I saw a Slave, whom I took to be one of those Women that waited upon me; but it proved the bold Musselman in that Disguise.

I cannot express my amazement and my wrath; this way going to break out against the Bostangi Bachi, when a­nother Woman (as I thought) drew near me, as rash as the first, and in the same Disguise; this was Prince Maho­met.

Had I followed my first passion, I had ruined them both, and drawn like­ly upon my self the suspition of favour­ing [Page 133] one or the other; they were as much amazed as I at the Conformity of their Adventures. After I had look'd upon them a long while, to be the bet­ter assured, that I was not mistaken; at last I told them, that they hazarded more than I, and that their Enter­prizes which rendred them so guilty towards the Emperour, could not prove pernicious to me. There is no need, said I, I should instruct you about the Laws, which you know well enough, and which you cannot violate, with­out Crime or Danger. But, my Lord, said I, turning my self towards Maho­met, I must needs tell you, that tho' my civility may hide your Actions from the Sultan, yet you ought to make a good use of it: And as for thee, O Mussel­man, the perfidious Subject of an Em­perour, who had honoured thee with the first Diguities of his House, if thou escapest free; thank my Indulgence and Mahomet.

The Bostangi Bachi felt a secret Rage at these words; he believed that your absence had changed mine Incli­nations, and that I was in love with the young Sultan.

[Page 134] I have interrupted your Designs, reply'd he, with a boldness like him­self: You wish Mahomet should come again; but I am not so little concern­ed in Amurat's Interest, as to hide from him what has pass'd. You Rogue, in­terrupted the Prince, do not offend A­rianissa, and acknowledge your fault as I do mine. Since our passionate Love hath brought us hither, against all com­mon prudence, let us confess our selves guilty: Tho' you ought to question me about what I do, yet tho' I am your Prince, I'll give you what satisfaction you can desire from me: Come there­fore to another place. These words did but confirm him in the Opinion he had, that I loved Mahomet; they were both forced to retire; and after I had seen them go out, I went into my Chamber, resolved to tarry there for fear of the like Surprisal, seeing that all the Eunuchs in the Seraglio were debauched in their Duty. Amaldan, who design'd nothing else by favour­ing the Bostangi Bachi, than to make use of his Liberality, cared little whe­ther he was pleased or no; those that served Mahomet, were not more zea­lous for him.

[Page 135] Some of my waiting Women had their Share in this Intreague, but for fear of communicating these things to those that were innocent, I thought it fitter to be silent; I got all the Pass­ges to my Appartment closely shut up. Aradin did asswage my displeasure, by telling me he had received News from you, and that nothing being able to re­sist you, you would soon be Master of Croya.

Your happiness made me look less melancholly than I was used to be, A­murat, who was sick but a little while, soon perceived it, and upbraided me for my sedate mind, as if it had been a great Crime.

In fine, My Lord, we heard at Adria­nople your arrival to Croya, and I can­not express to you, what was Amurat's rage, when he heard of the defeat of his Basha's; he resolved to go in person to fight you. But he was not willing to leave me behind him. I was not af­flicted at this news, reckoning it a hap­piness to come near the place, where you and my Father were, Selimana mad at this Resolution, designed to have killed me, and to make her self cer­tain that way, that I should never be­long to you, or to the Sultan.

[Page 136] I have told you already that we had no great correspondance. She knew what preparations were made for my depar­ture, and seeing she had quite lost the Emperours love, she resolved to punish me for it; by her liberality she endea­voured to induce some Eunuchs to poi­son me, some were persidious enough to attempt against my Life, but all to no purpose, tho' I used but a little cir­cumspection. These slow enterprises, did not agree with the violence of her ha­tred; therefore one night, being mad at Amurat's Scorn, she entered into my Chamber, with a dagger in her hand, which she had used without any mercy, had not my good Fate brought there Aradin, who, full of Zeal and Terror, threw himself upon her, and hindred her design. The proud Sultaness turned her head, and perceived her own weak­ness, she told us all that a violent ha­tred can inspire. She cursed the Em­perour; reviled me basely, protested against me, named you many times, and at last stabbing her self with two strokes, she fell dead at my feet.

I ran away at this cruel sight. The Emperour coming in was little concern­ed for her Death, tho' he had loved [Page 137] her passionately, because he could no longer abide her apbraiding humour.

At last, my Lord, we departed from the Seraglio at Andrinople; I was put in a covered Cart with two old Women, it was imposible for any man to see me, and no body was ever observed with greater care, notwithstanding all this, the rash Musselman endeavoured to steal me away; he was discovered the first time, and forced to fly from the presence of the angry Sultan, who was resolved to have punished him; he su­spected Mahomet also, and that poor Prince was like to undergo the Fate, which hath ruined so many of his Pre­decessors.

We arrived in sight of Croya, with the Ottoman Army. I felt some tender motions, when I saw these Towers, and Amurat redoubled then his Efforts to soften my heart but never found me Kinder, than I had been at Andrinople. Vexed at this, he would always threat­en me with your or Arianit's death. I was often alarmed at his: But the trust I had in the Valour of you both, dissipated my Terrors, and kept up my Courage.

One day after he had extraordina­rily [Page 138] tormented me, he resolved to sa­crifice me to that rage my unkindness had caused in him, he thought he should forget me, when he should see me no more; and being loath to use any other Executioner, than his loyal Orcan, a fa­vourite, worthy such a Master, he wrote the Note to him, which you found up­on Aradin, and trusted it to an Eunuch. Aradin, who knew the exceeding and violent wrath of Sultan, observed all his Actions, and meeting the Eunuch, who carried his orders to Orcan; he likely brought him out of the Camp, and fought him, having no other way to get his Note of him; I do not que­stion but he went towards Croya, to acquaint you with my miserable condi­tion, but he was assassinated in the way by Musselman, who had never loved him, according to what he told me, after he had stolen me away, that he had already sacrificed that passion to himself.

I expected nothing good from Amu­rat's Anger, and seeing Aradin no long­er, I thought he had been arrested by his Orders, as being too much affected for your Service and mine.

As Passions are not always equally [Page 139] violent he had no sooner ordered my death, but he thought with himself, how cruel this was like to prove to him; he sent for the Eunuch, but he was no longer to be found.

Amurat at last saw Orcan, who had not received his orders, and who had never approved it. Considering what advantage it would be to them to keep me alive, in a Country where the chance of War might not favour them always. Amurat, who had harkened to his own reasons, more than to those of Orcan, gave me leave to live, but swore he should have no longer any respect for me.

You know, my Lord, all the rest that had past, my Father's captivity, your own Victories, and Musselman's stealing me away; he broke open the Tent where I was carefully kept, killed many men, and carryed me away with­out any resistance, assuring me, that to make amends for what he had done, his only desire was to deliver me into your hands; I could not trust him, but that discourse flattered my hopes; that Traytor brought me away with all the immaginable swiftness, whilst all the Camp was full of confusion, and I lost [Page 140] soon after the sight of the Walls of Croya, and that of Amurat's Tents.

You may judge, my Lord, of my grief, to fall from Amurat's hands, in­to that Traytor's, whom no conside­ration had been able to divert from such a dangerous attempt. I weeped, but all to no purpose, my Prayers were but in vain, he made me wander a long while, without letting me enjoy any rest, and hurried me in that place, whether Hea­ven moved by my tears brought you in such a Critical Minute.

The Princess made an end of her Discourse, Scanderberg shew'd how much moved he was at her several sufferings; in the mean time, Aranit came to ac­quaint the King, that the Turks forti­fy'd themselves, and did intend to at­tack them within few days; but Scan­derberg was no less formidable in his joy than in his sorrow, and was not much frighted at Amurat's designs.

All the moments he spent with the Charming Arianissa, were attended with happiness, and joy. Thopia also, who feared no longer any Rival, nor the King's opposition against his Love, en­joy'd a perfect Tranquility, which A­missa's Protestations assured him of.

[Page 141] Amurat grievously vexed to know his Enemy's perfect happiness, offered him the Battle again, and made a new at­tempt to oppress him. Arianissa, who was well acquainted with Fortune's in­constancy, was afflicted at it; but the in­vincible Scanderberg assuring her so con­fidently of the Victory, render'd her less concerned at his departure.

And really he triumphed again, but after such a glorious and advantagious a manner, that the Sultan being van­quish'd, and weakned, dyed some days after for shame and dispair, after his last defeat; Mahomet, who was not then in a capacity to make War any longer, seeing the Ottoman Army exhausted, left Arianissa, and Albania in the Victori­ous Scanderberg's hands, and went to Andrinople to be proclaim'd Emperor there. Acomat being at liberty to do what he pleased, followed him and parted from Scanderberg, after he had promised him an everlasting Friend­ship, which he religiously observed, being neuter in all the Wars, between Mahomet, and the King of Albania.

Scanderberg, at the highest degree of his glory, feared by his Enemies, a­dored [Page] by all his Subjects, and dearly beloved by the fairest Princess in the World, married her publickly in Croya, with all possible demonstrations of joy; the same day was chosen for Thopia's marriage with Amissa. Aranit full of Satisfaction and Glory, took upon him­self the management of State Affairs, to give more time to Scanderberg, to enjoy Loves delights. All those that had been Loyal to Castriot's Family were fully rewarded, chiefly Ʋranus. Never a King lived with more content, or performed such famous Exploits as Scan­derberg did. But 'tis enough for us to have tyed him here for ever with his Charming Arianissa. The great At­chievements of his Reign, are so com­monly known, that it would be to no purpose to relate them here.