CHAP. I. How St. Patrick with other five Champions was wonderfully delivered out of the Cave of the Sorceress Kalib, by St. George of England.

IT hath ever been held in great esteem amongst all Nations, to preserve a due Veneration of their Heroes, Patriots, and Noble Champions; their Me­mories have been so pretious to them, that many and great Battels have been fought in Honour of the particular Tutelars of divers Kingdoms.

This makes Greece still proud of her great Achilles, Rome of her Pompey and Caesars; with no less reason do the English Honour the memory of the Victorious St. George, Spain of her Jago. France of St. Dennis, Scotland of St. Andrew, who [...]e Cross they Annually wear in his Comme [...]oration; As the Britains Celebrate their St. Davids Day, by wearing a Leek in [...]onour of him: And why the Hibernian Pa [...]on should not receive his just and due Commemoration, I think little can be objected against it, but rather all must yield to the Iustness and Equality of so Honoura­ble a Remembrance; especially seeing the fame of his mighty Valour, and puissant Courage runs in an equal, if not a larger Stream than the rest of his Fellows.

We shall therefore, to give him his proper Applause, Discourse of his great Atcheivements, Mighty Prowess, Wonderful Successes, and Strange Adventures, as they offer themselves unto us separately and apart from the other six; and herein we shall strictly keep to the best Au­thors in this case Errant.

Know therefore, that the Seven Champions of Christendom, which we just now recited, were extant in the World at one and the same time; only the Heroick St. George of Eng­land came last by Birth; but upon that Occa­sion, he was fortunately the occasion of all the [Page 3] wonders performed by the other six, as the fol­lowing Relation will at large inform you.

In the Year of our Redemption three Hun­dred Sixty one, One Calphurnius or Cal­phurcuus a man Honorable and well Esteemed, begat a Son of Conchessa his Wife, who when he was Baptized was called Suchar or Socher, afterward called by St. Germanus, Magonius; but at last Celestine, the first Bishop of Rome, called him Patrick.

This Patrick was born upon the Coast of Britain, in a place called by the Antients Tri­burnia or Hiburnia. And being yet a Child, was instructed in such parts of Learning as his tender years were capable of; wherein he pro­fited, to the Admiration of such as knew him, till that upon a time the Irish having made an Inroad upon that Country, carried away a­mong the rest of the Spoil, a great many Children and Young Men, of which Number Young Patrick being but a Stripling, had the misfor­tune; or rather the fortune to make one.

The Pirate (for such they were that carried them away) having arrived safe at their own Country, and divided the Spoyl; He to whose share Patrick sell, sold him to an Irish Man, who presently set him to keep a Herd of Swine, which grieved the Youth ex­ceedingly: Yet seeing no visible way under Heaven, whereby he could be delivered, he re­solves [Page 4] to bear his burden patiently, and to put all his Confidence in God, that in due time he would find out a way to inlarge him from that Slavery under which he was. Six years continued he in this condition; at the end of which time, Divine providence directed him (as he was in the Field feeding the Swine) where there was a Trea­sure hidden in the Earth, which when he had found; his next care was, to try if by its means he might work out his deliverance: Therefore he came to his Master, insinuating, that if he should accept of a little Money, to let him go, he thought he could procure it; the other readi­ly accepts the Motion; so that having payed him down a round Sum of his new-found Gold, he freely discharged him.

Patrick being now released from his bondage, did not stand long debating what to do, but lay­ing hold on the first opportunity, he returned home to his Native Country, to the great sa­tisfaction of his Friends and former Acquain­tance, being almost hopeless ever to see him again. Yet the Ioy which he had to see his Friends, was not without mixture of Grief and Sorrow; for in his Absence a grievous and deadly Heresie had crept in into the Country, which with its venemous plague infected the minds of a great many People. This Heresie was headed by Pelagius, that Viperous Ene­my of the Grace of God.

This consuming flame still growing, means were used by the more Orthodox Divines of that time for its extinguishing; for which end St. Jermanus Bishop of Aixen, and St. Lu­pus Bishop of Trecass came to Britain, who Laboured mightily to inform the People, and to reclaim them from their Errors; Patrick having occasion to hear St. Jermanus Preach, was exceedingly taken with him: Therefore having insinuated himself into his Acquain­tance, became very familiar with him, and gave himself, for many Years, to be instructed by him, being as yet called Magonius; his only Study was supernatural knowledge, hav­ing quite withdrawn himself from the Cares and Vexations of the World, he totally dedi­eated himself to Piety and Devotion.

Having thus by long and serious Study ac­complished himself with Learning, he resolved to imploy his Talent among the Poor ignorant Irish, whose darkness and misery he was for­merly acquainted with: Wherefore he takes a Iourny to Rome, and casts himself at Cae­lestines feet, beseeching him that he would use some means for instructing that People, who though they were Ignorant, yet were tracta­ble, and might be informed; Caelestine highly applauded his request, imploying himself as the fittest Instrument to manage the Work. Having likewise invested him in the Priestly [Page 6] Office, he called his Name Patricius, hoping he would be a Spiritual Father to many, and so dispatched him for Ireland.

This Holy Man returned about the Year 425. of whose Arrival, when the Inhabitants were certified, they came in vast Multitudes to see him; for although some there were among them that endeavoured to put him out of the Country, yet the far greater part of the People did cleave to him, as to a Father; for there were in him many qualifications sufficient to conciliate their respects to him, being eloquent without affectation, humble without dissimulati­on, & grave without sullenness: Add to these, his great dexterity in speaking the Irish Language, wherein he was short of none of the Natives; also his Acquaintance with their Manners, whereby he had a great advantage for further gaining of them; but that which gave him most success, was the singular blessing of God upon his labours, by which in a short time he gained a vast Multitude of Men and Women to the Christian Faith.

Thus Patrick like a faithful Sheepherd watches over his Flock daily, instructing young Converts in the Knowledg of Christ, strength­ning others in the Faith, and exhorting all to a strict and austere Life. Also, he strenuously refuted the Errors of Hereticks, and confounded the Gainsaying Magitians; he often visited the [Page 7] Sick upon their Beds, nourishing their minds with Gospel-Food: sometimes also, when he saw it needful, he with his Prayers Healed their Bodies of their Diseases.

As Patrick followed this course of Life, many there were who with a perverse mind op­posed his Doctrine, others as it were haulting betwixt two opinions, not knowing which to follow, greatly desiring of the Holy Man, that he would shew them some Visible Sign of these Ioyes of Heaven, and Torments of Hell, which he Preached; he hearing this, did with­draw himself a for little space, and having ap­plyed himself to God, he earnestly besought him that for once he would condescend to their request. The Almighty was not Deaf to his Prayers, by whose inspiration, he went towards the South parts of Ireland, there in a desolate place he found a Cave; into which, if any did en­ter, there seemed to appear to them most horri­ble Apparitions in divers and fearful shapes; of which, Girald of Wells who lived about the Year One Thousand One Hundred and Eighty, Writes thus: There is, saith he, a place in the further Parts of Nester, wherein there is an Island divided into two parts, whereof one part is very Religious, having a large Church, which is Famous for the concourse of English to it. The other part being Wild and Vninhabited, is said to be possessed only [Page 8] by Daemons, there they are visibly seen to march up and down in great Troops. This Author adds further, that it is reported, that if one be enjoyned for Penance to sustain the Torments of this place, he shall feel no infernal torments, except he afterward commit greater sins than these, for which he did his Penance. This place is by the Inhabitants of the Country called Patricks Purgatory. Yet Patrick did by his indefatigable Preaching of the Word, and frequent Reasonings with those Savages, powertuny convince them of the Reality, and [...] both of the enjoyments of the Saints in [...] of the Damned in Hell; for which he was very Famous in his Generation.

[...]ar of our Re­demption [...] Fifty and Eight, whose Body was aft [...]rward found, together with the Bodies of St. C [...]lumb, and St. Bri­ged in the City of Duns in Ulster, about the Year One Thousand One Hundred Seventy Six; as the same Author doth witness; who also Labours to prove, that by the Vertue of this Patron; It came to pass, that the Irish ground can neither breed nor nourish any Ve­nemous Creature.

He further Writeth, that among their other Wooden Relicks, they have one which they call the Club of Jesus, which is esteemed very fa­mous; [Page 9] for it is thought that with it St. Pa­trick banished all venemous Creatures from the Island. Another of his Relicks was a Trumpet, which the same Author saith a Pedler carried about with him, telling the People, where­ever he came, that for Reverence to the Saint, none durst Sound it: But being upon a day in a Village where a great many People Flock­ed about him, he according to his custom held out the Trumpet to them to kiss it: but a Priest called Bernard, standing in the Crowd, snatcht it out of his hand, and set to his Mouth to Sound with it; but as the Story goes, was presently so struck, that his mouth turned awry even to his Ear, so as he could hardly speak; yea further, that he fell into such a Lethargy, that he scarcely remembered he had a Name; though he was formerly a very Learned Man, yet was he so blasted, that when he recovered somewhat of his Senses, he was forced (though an Old Man) to begin like a Child to learn the Let­ters.

There was in those dayes a mighty Sor­ceress named Kalyb, who for the Closer ma­nagement of her Enchantments, was retired from Human Society, into a Cave, remote from all Walks, Roads, or Habitations, and en­compassed with thick Groves, solitary Desarts, mighty Thickets, and unfrequented Solitudes, where she had fitter opportunity to put her [Page 10] vile Practices in Execution. In this place she had an Enchanted Castle, wherein she shut up all those her Fiendly-Power could Seize up­on, which she feared or suspected might be In­strumental of doing any good in the World: Especially Men of great Courage, and Noble minds, which alwayes go hand in hand; and that is the reason why Men of Valour seek out brave Enterprizes, and Heroick Exploits: Such as the relieving the Distressed, dissolving the Charms of Witches, and Opposing what­soever is hurtful to Mankind. On these Con­siderations this malitious Enchantress employ­ed her utmost cunning, (which she arrived to by a constant Familiarity with Infernal Spi­rits in these Dark Recesses) to find out the Nativities of Children, whose Stars promised great things, and whom the Fates had deter­mined to great and Famous Exploits: and no sooner had she discovered the happy Birth of any such like Champion, but strait she fell to her Magick, and Spells; and by her Emisaries or Familiars, would lurch them into her Clutches, and confine them by her Enchantments from that Chivalry, which otherwise the World might expect of them. By these Artifices she had already surprized into her Custody all the Seven, except the Valiant St. George, whom the good Stars had determined to be the deliverer of all the rest. [Page 11] She Seized them all in their Minority and Childhood, or rather Infancy; for in the Night when their Drowsy Nurses were a sleep, this powerful Enchantress would send her Friends that should Spirit them away to her Magical Cell; leaving their distressed Parents to tear themselves with Fruitless Lamentations.

In this Brazen Inchanted Castle they spent their time, shut up from the Comfort and So­ciety of their dear Friends and Parents, and all the Dalliances attending the Children of Great Princes, (for of no less Stock were these Mighty Champions descended) and confined to the Society of Batts, the Musical Harmony of Owles and Ravens, Ioyned with a Consort of Froggs croaking, Adders hissing, Wolves howling; and such a dismal noise as might well beget in them an Opinion, that they were no better than on the Confines of Hell.

When one day walking in the Hall of their Magical Covent, where, amongst many other Monstrous Figures, was the Picture of the Fa­mous Hydra with the Seaven Heads; Sayes the Wise Patrick to his Fellow Prisoners, Methinks this silly Serpent very well repre­sents our Condition, (only she hath one head too many) who like so many heads are join­ed to a noisom Body, and confined to an ugly deformed shape; and yet these heads are Crowned as if they were Kings or Prin­ces [Page 12] at least, and one of them seems as a sleep, which perhaps may signify another Worthy, not yet arrived to us.

The rest with very great attention hearkened to the Admirable Interpretation the Sagatious Champion had made of that Dreadful Figure, and with no less astonishment, gave ear to the strange Explanations he made of divers other Monstrous representations, which instead of Ornaments were fixed around the Walls of the Brazen Castle, which was indeed all the Diversion these Great and Generous Heroes had to entertain themselves withal▪ There (instead of Curious Tapistry, wherein the soft History of the Arcadian Loves were Expressed, and instead of Battels, Landskips, Prospects and Histories with which the Galleries of their Palaces were adorned:) they saw the Fi­gures of Gastly Proserpine, Fell Rhadaman­tus, or Fiery Alecto; their Eyes were blast­ed with the shapes of Hellish Furies, Horrid Monsters, or cruel Murthers: Their Ears, instead of the Charming Sweetness of well tuned Musick, were accosted with yellings of Spirits, groanings of those that were bound in the Fetters of Kalybs Enchantments, howlings of terrible Fiery Wolves, Roaring of Devils; and all the distastful noises imagi­nable: So that many times you might have [Page 13] seen the French Champion stop his Ears with Mushrooms to keep out the Horrour of the frightful sound. But the Magnanimous Pa­trick (who in his Childhood had been used to Conquer Irish Wolves, and in quest of Beasts of Prey to hunt through the foulest and most noisom Boggs) little daunted at these hideous Spectacles, often by his great Courage and Bravery, Buoyd up the Spirits of his dejected Companions: and would recount to them the Labours of Hercules, the Travels of Eneas, and set before them the Examples of Great and Couragious Champions, who by their prow­ess had Conquered all Difficulties: Where­fore he perswaded them with an Vndaunted stedfastness to contemn the Misfortunes of this Witchy Cave; not doubting, but their kinder Stars would direct a way out of that dismal Labyrinth.

One day it happened, that the Sorceress (having sate up in Consult the night before with her Acquaintance of the other World, and hav­ing Drank a dose or two too much of Lethe, in drinking Healths to Pluto) was laid to sleep away her potation, and in that Interval the Va­liant English Champion, who had been divers Years shut up in a Recluse in that Enchan­ted Castle) took the Freedom to view the Apart­ments of that Brazen Tower; he had seen the Garden, which swarmed with Basilisks, [Page 14] Crocadiles, Aspes, Scorpions, and all sorts of venemous Serpents; In the midst, a Foun­tain fed by the River Stix, wherein they ba­thed their Flaming poisonous Tongues. On the Trees (instead of Fruit) hung the Sculs of Dead Men that had been devoured by these Monsters: After having observed abundance more of these Hideous Spectacles, he came in­to a Yard, where the Dogs were that guarded the Castle; some whereof had heads like Bulls, and were derived of the Centawrs; others had three or four heads, which the Witch had obtained of the race of Cerberus the Dog of Hell; some had Flaming Tongues, others Tallons like Eagles; with divers other forms too tedious here to recite: but such was the Ma­jesty of this Famous Champion, that all crowched and fawned whilest he past them by. This Court led him into the great Hall where the other six Heroes were confined. At his entrance they all stood amazed, supposing some Diety had been come to visit them, until our brave St. Patrick assuming his Native Courage, thus address'd himself to them.

Be not abashed, most Noble Partners, at the presence of this Extraordinary Person whom here you see; for since his coming into this Room, it hath been revealed unto me, that this must be the most Famous, Valiant, and [Page 15] Renowned Champion of England, whom for our Deliverance, our Angels have sent unto this place; and this doubtless (continued he) is him that was signifyed by the seventh head we saw on yonder Beast, which seemed to us as if asleep. At which, casting their Eyes towards the Figure of the Hydra, they perceiv­ed that that head seemed to be awake, and was lifted up above the rest; whereupon they all made their Obeisance to the brave St. George, and were by him comforted with promises to do his utmost towards their Enlargement from that Barbarous, and Miserable place. Then turning himself unto our Famous St. Patrick, Sir (said he) Your Extraordinary Courage, and great skill in Revelations, give me Oc­casion particularly to apply my self to you; besides, my good Genius doth assure me you are of the Antient, hardy Hibernian Race; and that with your Sword you shall per­form such Wonderful Adventures, and Fa­mous Deeds, as shall enroll you in the Bed of Immortal Honour, and justly Entitle you the Champion of your Native Country. Something he added to the rest, but that not being to our purpose, we Omit; only that he told them he would go and put such a design in Execution, as should speedily accomplish their desired Enlargement.

Then taking his leave of them, he retired to his own Quarter, where he had remained a very litle while, before the Cruel Sorceress Ka­lib came unto him; and feeling yet about her the warm effects of her last-Nights Debauch; she could not forbear expressing her Amours to the Young Knight; and although she had often, without Success, made use of the same Importunities with the other Six (especially our Irish Hero) who with manly Bravery withstood her lascivious Assaults; yet at the sight of the English Spark, she fell to her old pulling, and found in her self a Violent Inclination to a farther Intimacy, which in such words she uttered.

Most puissant Knight, You know me to be Lady of this mighty Castle; and that there is nothing in the Power of Hell but I can accomplish; for not only all these Fell and Dreadful Monsters residing in this Valley, but even the Fiends themselves Obey me. Nor there any thing so difficult, but for the sake of your Love, I will perform: Command then Noble Prince, and you shall soon see how ready your Kalyb is to obey you; on­ly afford me the sweet Embraces of your Excellent Person, and all that I am, or have, is at your Princely Feet.

At this the Youthful Champion seemed to be somewhat surprized; until recollecting with himself, that seemingly to cherish her Affection, would be the only way to accomplish his designs, for by that means she would be ingaged to a greater Confidence in him, and the more Com­plaisant to his purpose: He therefore made her this Reply.

Mighty Princess, Since by your Extraordi­nary bounty, I have found a Noble Enter­tainment in your Pallace, beyond the stretch of my slender Memory to remember; and by your great kindness, have had Information of my Parentage and Quallity: Besides the Mighty Favour of your High Affection; It would be Stupendious Ingratitude in me, not to Embrace so Noble a Friendship: Where­fore be assured, Great Lady, That the servi­ces of your Captive shall be always prostrate to your Command. Then making a very graceful Conge, he Imprinted in her a strong belief, that her Charm had taken; wherefore taking him by the hand, she led him round the Battlements of her Pallace, giving him a large prospect of vast Dominions and Territories; then leading him on through many Galleries, at length she brought him to a Grot or Cave, wherein was a large Vault in the fashion of a Stately Hall: it was covered with mighty [Page 18] Groves of decayed Pepplers, and as dark as night: But this darkness was Vanquished by a number of Goblins, who with Flambeas stood round the Room. Here she gave him an Entertainment of her Magical Diversions, causing many Fairy Spirits to Masquerade it to the Musick of Beetles and Grass-hoppers: Then came a Troop of Satyrs, footing it to the Noise of their own Bagpipes, they having learnt that Instrument of Pan; at last came in a kind of jolly fellow clod in Ivie, and a sort of Mushromes, having twenty Iacks with Wisps dancing in before him; and seeming to stagger, or rather stumble into the Hall, he entertained them with the following Song.

The Song ended, all the Faries, Goblins, and Spirits in the Hall, set up a Levit with Hunting Horns of all sizes; which they did with so strong a Blast, that by the Ecchoing of the Vault and Caves, you would have thought all the Noises in the World had been contracted into that Cell. This being performed, the Witch dismissed her Familiars, and Conducting the undaunted Knight to her own Apartment, She gave her Servants Or­der to lay her Bed in a low Parlour, and Commanded the Room to be strewed with Pensies, Vervam, Dill, and Yerrow; there being in these Herbs a Magical Virtue inclin­ing to the Feat; thence taking the Governour of her heart into her Closset, she took a Bottle of Nepenthe, which had many years been pre­served, and was found out by Juno to incline Paris to affect her: here taking first a large soop her self, she poured out a Glass full for St. George; whose Natural Signature had arm­ed him against all Inchantments whatever; therefore the Knight, without Hesitation, drank it off, naming it a Health to Kalyb's bests affecti­on, which she took in such kind part, that sitting [Page 21] down on her Coutch, she drew the Valiant Youth to her side; and falling into another Amou­rous Pang, She had much ado to put off the Violence of her Passion until Bed time: But the fumes of her last Dose working on the Va­pours of her last-nights Potation, at last clo­sed her eyes, which the subtile Champion soon observing, he laid hold on a Silver wand which lay in the Closet, whereon was Engraven this Motto,

Vpon which, St. George Immediately con­cluded this to be the Enchanted Rod, by which she wrought all her Magical Spells; and heartily glad of such an oppertunity, was re­solved to try the Experiment of it on her self; wherefore with that Wand stroaking her gent­ly over the Eye-lids, he sealed them for ever opening again, and Charmed her into such a Dead Lethargy, that she never more awak­ed.

Now, now indeed, the Noble Hero found the Motto true, and was every Minute more and more Convinced of it: For he had not time to go out of the Room, before our St. Pa­trick, [Page 22]

and the other five Champions came to kiss his hand for what he had done: For no sooner were the Eyes of the Circean Enchan­tress touched, but they all felt the Chaines of their Captivity to fall off, and a new Courage spread through their Veins.

Divers Caves also that had Men, and Children, shut up in them many Years, of themselves flew open, and there was a Vni­versal Goal-Delivery, of all such as the Sorce­ries of Kalyb had Confined; for at the minute of her Death, her Power ceased, nor was there any longer force of her Charms.

All the deformed Spirits, Hideous Mon­sters, dreadful Noises, and Venomous Ser­pents Vanished, and a beautiful Serenity dif­fused it self over the whole Valley. The Grass assumed its Verdure, the Flowers their Odour, the Birds their Harmonious Warb­lings, the Fountains again recovered their Christalline Purity, and all things returned to their Native Order and Beauty.

Thus was the Mighty Inchantment of the Famous Kalyb dissolved; whilst the In­fernal Spirits hurryed her miserable Carkass into the Dreadful Torments of a Wretched Eternity.

CHAP. II. The Valiant St. Patrick taketh leave of the other six Champions; what happened to him after his departure.

THe Heroick St. Patrick perceiving himself now at liberty from those Witchy bonds which had a long time confined him, and hinde­red the great performances of his Sword; thought fit to lose no longer time, but to seek out such Adventures as might Enrole his Name amongst the Chiefest Worthies: Where­fore he spake to the English Champion after this manner;

Right Noble and Victorious St. George, since it hath pleased our better Stars to make you the Glorious Instrument of our Re­demption from the miserable Enchantment wherein we were tyed; and you seem to be sent from Heaven to us, as our Guardian-Angel; give me leave (after repeating my Unfeigned thanks for your so unparalleld favour) to assure you, that I think the Re­mainder of our Lives cannot be better Em­ployed, than in the Service of our Renown­ed Benefactor; and therefore we will follow your Conduct, and Commands, upon all Oc­casions, [Page 25] and Acknowledge it as our greatest happiness to serve so Generous a Master.

To which Speech, the other Five having de­clared their joynt Consent, The most Cour­teous St. George having with great Huma­nity received their Complement, made this Re­ply:

Renowned Irish Knight, Whose unmatcht Courtisie (without the Acheivements of thy Armes) might Entitle thee Conquerour of the World; and you my Fellow Souldiers, who with so great Affection have offered your kindness to me: You may be well assured, that it was not for my sake, this great Mi­racle hath been wrought, but for the gene­ral benefit of all Mankind, who need the assistance of your Valours: Let us then shape divers Courses, and search out Glorious At­chievements in the furthermost part of the World: Let us divide our selves, and scat­ter Monuments to our High Courages in all the Habitable parts of the Globe; making the most Remote and Barbarous Provinces pay Tribute to the Memory of the Seaven Mighty Champions of Europe. And as for You thrice Noble Patrick, where ever the Irish Harp shall sound, your Fame shall be recorded by the best skill of deviceful Bards, and [Page 26] smooth-Tongued Rythmers; our several Na­tive Countries shall wear Badges of Honour to our Memories, and the greatest Knights take their Nobility from the Names of our Order.

This Rhetorical Speech of St. Georges be­ing ended; the Active Irish Knight thought long to have his Spurs on; wherefore calling to him one Mac, a Servant of his, that had been shut up with others in the Inchanted Rock; he gave him order to go and provide Horses for himself, and the other six Champi­ons, and to bring them to the Brazen Tow­er with all Expedition. Mac readily Obeying his Lords Commands, was gone in a trice. In the mean time the Worthy Knights search­ing the Rooms of the Castle, found all manner of Rich and Costly Furniture, with Princely Habiliments of War, which the damn'd Sorce­ress had laid up, having belonged to Princes, which she had Devilishly made away in her Enchanted Cell. There were carved Indian Lances, Turky Bows, Tartarian Darts, Toledo Swords, Flemish Pistols, Leather Carbines; and so many sorts of Martial En­gines, so quaintly devised, that it would have pussed all the Virtuoso's in Athens to have mend­ed their Invention. There were Drums and Trumpets that would beat and sound of their [Page 27] own accord, to animate the Valiant to Battle. Musquetoons and Blunderbuss's that would charge and discharge themselves seaven or eight times following: There were Likewise, Breast-plates, Reins, Croupers, and Furni­ture of all sorts; some whereon the Pencil had shewed its best Art; others where the Needle hath tryed its utmost skill: for on some were the Loves of Pyramus, and Thisbie; on others Dido hanging her self for Eneus, then Venus tearing her tresses for loss of Adonis; Juno looking through her fingers at the Rapes of Jupiter; and on one was Prophetically drawn St. George and the Dragon, with Damosel by: Besides, a number of Impresses, De­vices, and curious Stories of like Nature, e­nough to fire the Courage of the most mortified Knight alive.

They had scarcely chosen out of the Armory, what was suitable to their several Phansies and Occasions, before Mac was returned with the Horses; which were such, that if Barbary were ransacked for Beauty, or Germany for strength, they could not have been matcht; Nor is it strange, that they were brought so suddainly; for this being an Age of Miracles, St. Patricks Groom met them on the Road coming to the Castle of their own accord, and ready marked to their hand; for the Irish Knights was branded with an Harp; the English with a [Page 28] Garter; the Scots, with a Cross Saltier; the Britains with a Leek; The Italians with a Tarantula; The Spaniards with a Goat; and Monsiers with the Scratches: So that it was easie to determine which Jennet belonged to each Champion.

There was not need of much trouble to put on their several furnitures; for they fitted so exactly, as if they had been made on purpose; they were all very Sumptuous, Rich, and of admi­rable Device. I shall only take notice of the Caparison of our Noble St. Patrick, whose Impress was an Orpheus playing on an Irish Harp, with a number of Sheep and Bullocks feeding on the Mountaines by. His Motto was, ‘Beware the Wolf.’ Now being all mounted on their fiery Steeds, which seemed as so many Pegasus's, or Cha­ritors of the Sun; and having marched beyond the bounds of the Castle: where having cast Lots which should make the first Adventure, the Lot fell to our Noble Champion St. Pa­trick; who in a very Knightly Oration, Ex­horted them to affirm Amity with one another; and that they should employ their Valiant Swords in Honour of their Native Countries; promising withall, that if either of their persons [Page 29] required his Service, he would on the least notice not fail to come to their Aid and Assist­ance. Thus having Mutually Embraced, and taken leave of one another, they separated themselves; each one taking his course, as his particular Genius prompted him: Our Cham­pion bending the Course of his Travails to­wards the North, where he had understood, that a Knight of Extraordinary prowess, had belea­gured a very Beautiful and Excellent Lady in her own Castle, with resolution to force her thence to Marry him, notwithstanding she had plighted her Faith to another Lord; who tho much Inferiour to him in the Bounties of For­tune, had by far the preheminence of him in Personal Endowments, and especially in the Esteem and good Affection of the fair Climena, (for so was the Lady called) so that the most Accomplisht Philadon had already secured the main fortress, whilst in vain his wretched Ri­val Lymas lay Storming of the Out-works.

Seven times had Radiant Phaebus warmed the Cold surface of the Earthy Globe, and as oft tyred with his Quotidian Toyl rested his Declining Head on the Crocean Pillow of his Hostess Thetis, since our Renowned Patrick had left the Company of the other six Hero's: and now being come within two or three Dayes Iourney of the besieged Lady, in the Even­ing he entred into a most delightful Valley, [Page 30] more like the Workmanship of an Artificial Gardiner, than barely the Product of Nature; so smooth and even was the surface of the Flowery Medows, as if Flora had thereon spread a Carpetting of Persian Work; the Ver­dant ground being Enamled with all the gay va­rieties of Flowery May, the Walks of Stately Elmes were Ranked in straight Files, and did not unfitly represent a Regiment of Souldiers; when by the skill of some Brave Commander drawn up in open Order, for which way so ever you cast your eye, you might observe they ranked Level on every side; The Hedges were stored with the most curious Fruit Trees of the most Choice and Excellent kind that the Climate afforded, where the blushing Peaches seemed to court the hand of the faint Travel­ler; and were placed near the Road, by the Bounty of the Lord of the Soil, for the re­freshment of such as passed that way. He rid by divers, Ponds of Silver-scaled Fish, where he might see the gilded Carpe, and shining Tench at strife which should feast most on the nimble Flyes, which in the Evening played on the surface of the Water: This Prospect was so very Delightful, that our Champion could not forbear stopping his Chasing Steed to divert himself with the pleasant sight, whilst the Rays of the declining Sun gave a fresh Lustre to the Enammel of their glittering Scales as [Page 31] they danc't above the Water. Not far from this, he came by the Bank of a stately River, which by the slowness of its Motion, seemed as if unwilling to forsake the pleasant Fields through which it past; here might you see the Princely Trout shew himself out of his pro­per Element, whilest he proudly viewed his Gold and Scarlet in the Mirrour of the Flood; The Ravenous Iack hunting the little Dace, which hid themselves under the Gravel of the bottom to avoid his Tyranny. Passing a little farther, Our Martial Traveller came by a well-spread Oak, which standing on the bank of the

Stream, seemed as if he had drest himself by the reflection of his Shadow on the Christial [Page 32] Channel. Vnder this Tree sat a Person of a very Reverend Aspect, having a Fishing-Rod in his hand, with which on Occasion he used Innocently to disport himself by the Waters side; his face was not forsaken of its fresh Carnation, although Age had snowed on his Silver head: his habit was rather Neat than Gay; Spun out of the finest Fleeces of his own Flock; His whole meen spoke him to be a person that Commanded a respect, even from Strangers; At the fight of our Noble Ad­venturer, The Courtious Olindor arose from his Grassie Cushion, and with a Gentle Aspect saluted him after this manner:

Sir Knight (said he) for so your Armes and Equipage bespeaks you to be; I well perceive you are a Stranger in these Parts; and the time of the Evening now requires a due refreshment after your Travels, where­fore if you please to accept of such a Treat­ment as my Country Mansion doth afford; I shall acknowledg it an Honour to my House, and you shall as freely command there, as if you were in your own Inn: Besides, you must understand, that here is no Village for your Reception, in divers Miles of this place.

St. Patrick having with due acknowledg­ment accepted Olindors Generous Offer, [Page 33] Alighted off his Horse, and taking the Reins in his hand, he walked together with his No­ble Host towards his Stately Habitation. They had gon but little more than a Furlong, be­fore the Walks opened them a prospect to the Front of the Building, which stood on a gen­tle ascent of ground looking over the pleasant Fields we but now described. The entrance was raised on Pillars of Marble, with Ped­stals and Capjters of Burnished Brass, which gave a lustre like shining Gold; within the entrance was a Terras supported with Pillars of Iet, upon a Pavement of divers Culler'd Marble most Artiffcially layd in Chequer Work, on each side a green Court set with Mirtles, Oranges, and Pines. The Build­ing it self was raised with Porphyrie, and Al­labaster Curiously set in Vniform Squares, or Pains. A little before they came to the en­trance, at a small distance on the left hand was the Stable; a structure not unsuitable to the Grandure of the rest, but as much as any thing spoke the Magnificence of the Owner; besides carved stalls for a hundred Horses, there was in one part a Mew appointed where the Hawks were kept, which in their several Seasons brought the Duck, the Quail, the Pa­tridge, and Plover to their Masters Table, there were propper Lodgings for the Gromes, and Falconers, besides Stores for the Proven­der, [Page 34] and Rooms wherein the Rich Sadles, Caparisons, Arms, and Furniture was care­fully kept: So many perquisites swelled the Stables almost to the Bulk of the dwelling House, which was hardly distinguishable from the other in figure; only that it lifted its Lof­ty head above it.

Near the same distance from the entrance on the Right hand was a Curious Fountain, representing the Famous River Nilus; for at seven heads it discharged as many Christal Streams into a Vessel of Marble, from whence the Water was conveyed to an Adja­cent Pond for washing, and refreshing the Hor­ses.

Near the Dore of the Stables waited seve­ral of the Grooms, who at a distance perceiv­ing their Master, ran to attend him, and recei­ved into their Care the Horse of our Knightly Travellour. Then the most Hospitable Olinder taking the Noble Patrick by the hand, Con­ducted him into the most Beautiful, and com­pleat Pallace that ever his eyes had seen; They passed (through a stately Hall whose guilded Roof dazled the Eye of the beholder; round a­bout it were curiously Painted the History of the Trojan War, the Mighty Gyants Asca­path and St. Bevis; and the Famous Com­bat between Captain Jones, and the King of Bombaza; Their Postures and Weapons were [Page 35] so lively depainted, you would have thought their Swords and Spears had clasht together;) thence, going through a Gallery which had a Floor of Ceder in-laid with Ebony and Silver, and the Wainscot of Indian Porphirie, curiously guilded with Embossed work of Gold. They Might see there in several Pieces of admirable Paint, the Honourable and great Atcheivments of the Antient Lords of that princely Seat; from whence entring into a Parlour, whose Beauty exceeded all that had yet been seen; they sat down on a Couch of Embroidered Da­mask richly perfumed, which through a large Casement of Christal, Entised the Eyes of St. Patrick into the most Beautiful, and Attractive Garden that ever was contrived, by the most Exquisite Artist: All that the Fabulous Poets have said in praise of their feigned Elysium falls much short of describing the Charming Glory, and sweetness of this place.

There were Fountains Contrived with such Admirable Art, that they Saluted your ears with a Consort of all sorts of Delectable Musick, Sta­tues of Copper, expressing all the Months of the Year, besides divers Historical Figures; but in the midst stood Flora, Enthroned as it were in her proper Orb, with all the Fragrancies of Nature round about her. At one side was a Wilderness for Shady Walks, where (with­out the Clew of Ariadne) it was hard for a [Page 36] Stranger to find the way out again, in one Corner of this was a Grotto where Artifici­al Birds of all Sorts Expressed the lively Notes of the Natural, and that so truely, that Starlings, Black-birds, and Linnets have often resorted to them, and joyned in their Consort.

Whilest at these Excellent Prospects; Our Champion was Contemplating the Grandure of the Noble Olindor, a Page with an humble Reverence, brings into the Room, a Voider of all the Various and Excellent Fruits that stately Garden did afford; some whereof were Candied with Excellent Art: Of these the Ge­nerous Host presents his Heroick Guest, which were of great refreshment to him after his weary Travail; They had likewise of the Rich­est Toscan Wine, besides Cordials of Admirable Virtue. Then the Page helping off his Armour, St. Patrick with the Friendly Olin­dor, took a walk towards the Grot, in th [...] further side of the Garden, where sitting dow [...] together, they began to recount their severa [...] Adventures, and to enquire of one anothers Fortunes, Misfortunes, Successes, and Accidents.

CHAP. III. What Discourse happened in the Grot be­tween St. Patrick and Olindor, how St. Pa­trick undertakes the Release of the Lady Climena; with several Adventures that be­fel him.

THe Renowned St. Patrick being affected with all Imaginable Satisfaction, at the Grandure, Magnificence, and abounding Cour­tisie of the Generous Olindor; and well knowing such sumptuous Pallaces, splendid Attendants, with the other Gallantries where­with that place abounded, could not be main­tained without an answerable Revenue: He thought himself highly Obliged to pay a suita­ble respect to the Lord of the greatest Pal­lace he had ever seen. Therefore casting a Princely Aspect (yet full of Humility) towards the Reverend Olindor; he gave him a full Ac­count of all the Direful Accidents already men­tioned, in relation to himself and the other six Champions; all that had happened to them in the Enchanted Castle of the Magical Kalyb, with the wonderful manner of their strange de­liverance; by the disolving her Charmes; at which the Good Olindor could not forbear to interrupt him in this Sort: Oh Heavens! said [Page 38] he, and is that Hellish Sorceress at last punished for her Divellish Practises; how much is the World Obliged to the Fortune and Bravery of those Worthies, that Ac­complished so great a Blessing? I have heard (Continued he) Strange and Dreadful Re­lations, of Monstrous Cruelties, and Barba­rismes committed by that Lewd Witch; but had never that particular, and satisfactory Account, which now even makes my Ears to rejoyce at the hearing, and fills my Chill'd Veins with a diffused warmth for Joy of so great a Benefit. What Blessings may not Mankind hope for from the Glorious Arms of such All-Conquering Heroes, now the pro­pitious Stars have already made you Try­umph over the powers of Darkness, and Conquerours even of Hell it self.

The Noble Patrick could not here forbear to pay an Honourable Acknowledgment to his Ga [...]l [...]nt Host, for the great Character he had giv n himself and Fellow-Champions, adding, tha [...] whatever Courage or Fortune Heaven had made him and his Brother-Champions Masters of, must certainly be at the Devotion of such as the Brave Olindor; and that for his part espe­cially, he knew not how in Gratitude he could answer the high Obligations conferr'd on him, without laying both his Sword, and him­self [Page 39] at the Feet of so Excellent a Person. Alas (replyed Olindor) you have laid so weighty a Compliment on a declining Old Man, as makes me even stoop beneath the weight of it: But Noble Knight (said he) if your Valour call for Exercise; there is a Neice of mine, by Name, Clymena, that may need the Aid of your Knightly Prowess: You must know Gallant Stranger, that this Lady is Heiress to a very Large and fertil Territory, yet of a Family whose stock of Honour far Exceeds the Bounties of their Large Fortunes. At the Age of Fourteen both her Parents were sum­moned to the Elysian Shades, leaving the Fair Clymena to the Tutelage of her Mothers Bro­ther; This Gentleman had a Son of his own about sixteen years of age by name Philadon, who is Master of as much personal Beauty, happy Education, sweet Disposition, and natu­ral Courage (perhaps) as any Lad of his Age, only his Estate came short of Clymena's; but that was largely supplyed by the other Ac­complishments; which made my Young Neice so fond of him, that she would never enter­tain a thought of Marrying any other Per­son, but still admitted him to all opportunities of Conversation; spending their time in such Gentile Diversions, as were proper for Per­sons of their Quallity: Somtimes his Voice, sometimes his Recorder must make a Conso [...]t [Page 40] to her well tun'd Lute: Sometimes their wanton Feet would measure out an Artificial knot upon the plain, whilst one of their Pages proportion'd out their time on a Guittar, or Violin. Sometimes her Phansie would lead her to the Rivers side; where with his Hook and Line, the Charming Philadon would at­tend her, bringing the Inhabitants of the wa­try Element out of their cold Region, to dance and play in the Sun-shine of her Eyes; and what Excellent strains of Courtship would the Enamour'd Philadon use on such occasions; telling her, that the Sparkling Diamonds of her face bestowed the guilding, and Enamel on their Silver Seales. Then taking out his Pocket-Whistle, he gave his Page a sum­mons, who in Obedience to that call, streight attended: Sirrah (said his Master) do you give this Worthy Knight the Fishing Song my Kinsman Philadon, made on my Neices going to the Rivers side with him, at which the Page taking a Lute taught the strings to answer his Voice, whilest he sung.

There were more of the Verses, but because of late they have been made common, I shall not trouble the Reader with them; but the Page having ended, much to the Satisfaction of the Traveling Knight, (who much admired his graceful performance all the while) the good Olindor Assumed his Story after this manner.

But now all those Innocent pastimes are ceased, and their Musick changed into the Noise of Trumpets and Guns, Their Danc­ing into Sallies, and Attaques,

For suddainly in one Night (one Lymas a great Lord of the Northern Part, having heard much of the Fortune of Climena, and not thinking it fit that any one should be Master of so great a Treasure beside himself) came with a mighty force which he had raised among his Numerous Tennents; and Accompanied with many young Sparks of his Acquaintance; in an Instant surrounded the Castle, which is the residence of these two young Lovers; inten­ding [Page 42] to force the incomparable Clymena to his greedy Embraces; many attempts hath he made by Granadoes, Batteries, and other Es­sayes, to enter the House; but by reason of its advantageous Scituation, strong Building; and the great care of my Nephew and his Ser­vants, they are still repulsed without success: Yesterday I sent my only Son (who will be glad of the Honour of your Acquaintance) to gather as many of his Friends and Tennants as he finds willing to engage with him in so Honourable an Enterprize; either by force to drive Lymas out of our Territories, or at least to relieve the Castle until a greater Strength can be raised.

In the Midst of this discourse a Page gave notice that Supper attended for them, where­upon Olindor taking the Irish Patron by the hand conducted him to a Spatious Arbour at another corner of the Garden, which was Composed of Gessamines, Mirtles, and Roses; adjoining to it was an Exquisite Fountain representing Helicon, where the Nine Muses were Expressed in most propper Hieroglyphiels cast in Copper; the Conveyance of the Water was contrived with such Art, that in its pas­sage it made a Musicall Harmony, as if Or­gans, Harpsicals, and Viols, had been in Con­sort, and by turning a Cock, they could make it answer any time they pleased.

The Table was of Allabaster, whereon they had a most Princely Entertainment, ser­ved up in Plate and Porcelane of th [...] China make; There was Kid; Fowl, and Fish, with the Choicest Fruits of each kind, according to the proper Season: Wine Richer than ever the Grecians offered in Sacrifice to Bacchus; whilest by the Command of Olindor on [...] of the Pages, setting the Fountain in Accord to his Voice, in a mournful Accent sang this

Notwithstanding the Princely Patricks Senses were all at one time Importuned, and feasted with the greatest Delicates Imaginable: His Eyes with the Beautiful prospect of the Pallace and Garden; his Ears with the Charming Musick of the Page and Fountain; his No­strils with the fragrant sweetness of the Ar­bour; his Pallate casting the several well-Coockt dishes, and various Fruits, with which the Table abounded; nor was his sense of feeling un-imployd, for although the satisfaction he re­ceived from so Excellent a Banquet was very great; yet felt he in himself a more Ardent desire to Encounter Lymas; and Exercise his mighty Armes for the relief of the Beautious Clymena, than for ever to enjoy the wanton Luxury of all the Courtly Entertainments imaginable. Dellicacies and Dalliances are uneasie to Valiant and Heroick Souls, whose Magnanimity spurs them on alwayes to feats of Arms, and the puissant Atcheivments of Chivallry.

The thrice Noble Prtrick could not forbear discovering the inward resentments of his soul [Page 45] unto the Brave Olindor in this sort.

Excellent Lord Olindor, Although the Princely Opulence under which your Table growns, be such as Emperours Pallaces may well envy; and the Entertainment your Boun­ty affords me, far transcending all the ac­knowledgments I can possibly return; yet give me leave to tell you, that the Opportu­nity you have put into my hand, to serve you in relation to your Neice, and to Hazzard my Life in the service of so Worthy a Lord as Olindor, infinitely surpasses all the satis­faction Arising from the other considerations, so that now I covet nothing more than to see the Face of Lymas, and to call him to ac­count for the Injuries offered to your Excel­lent Neice: Doubtless (said he) he shall soon be sensible of the loss his own guilt will pull upon him: But (continued he) Know Famous Olindor, that before I had the good Fortune to meet you by the side of your River; I had fully determined to Revenge upon the Impious Lymas, the injuries and abuses done by him to the Lady Clymena; for it was on­ly that Motive that brought me hither: But I must acknowledge my Resolution much Hightened since I have had the Relation of her misfortunes from your Lips; and espe­cially since I understand the aliance between [Page 46] your Families to be such, that you are engaging your Noble Son in the Conflict.

Whilest he was speaking this, a Servant gave Notice that the young Lord Olinderus was come, and had brought with him about

five Hundred Tennants of the Principal Youth of the Yeomandry, besides about twenty young Noble-Men of his Acquaintance; all ready Horsed and Equipt for the expedition: At which they Immediatly rise from Table, and went to the Entrance of the fore-gate to meet them; where the Brave Old Father having Embraced his Son, the young Olinderus and [Page 47] his Companions: He appointed the Spacious Hall for the Entertainment of the Young Farmers, and an Inner Gallery for the Re­ception of the Nobles, they being resolved to rest themselves in his Pallace for that Night, untill the next Morning Light should Summon them to attend the call of the Warlike Trumpet.

Great Observation did all the Strangers take of our Valiant Patrick, whose Martial Presence, and Heroick Comportment, made them unanimously six upon him to be their Leader; but this determination they kept se­cret until the Morning. In the mean time the Prudent Olindor gave orders to divers of his principle Servants to be ready to attend his Son on the next dayes March, and to bear him company in the Battel: And to one he gave special direction to bring him word what was the first success of the Engagement. All the while the brave Olinderus was entertain­ing his Friends with the Sumptuous Refresh­ment his Fathers House afforded, whilest se­deral brisk Glasses went about to Clymena's Health, and the good success of their Expedition.

Thus passed they away the Evening, with many discourses relating to the carrying on their Enterprise, until the good Olindor sent one of his Gentlemen to acquaint the Noble Champi­on, that if he pleased to repose himself, his A­partment was ready: So being Conducted by [Page 48] divers of the principal Servants with Wax lights in Silver Stands; the Hospitable Old Lord would needs attend his Guest to his Lodging, as likewise did the Young Olindarus, and divers of the Principal Nobles: He was led up by a large Stair Case of Cedar Richly Carved and Guilded, the Wainscot adorned with many pie­ces of curious Landskip, and Sea Prospects of Admirable Art: So that in divers the Wracks were so Lively described, you would have thought you had heard the sinking Marriners call for help: Some Vessels seemed to be just blowing up, where many Bodies appeared mounted up far in the Air, and their Limbs scattered with the Violence of the Powder. Within this was a Chamber, where on the Cealing was a Skie most Artificially wrought, where Silver Cynthia, and her Necturnal Train of glorious Stars and Plannets gave so great Lustr [...] as if they had been come there on purpose to keep an Alternate watch during the Champions Repose. It was hung round with th [...] Richest Venetian Tapstery of Silk, Silver and Gold; in which was admirably expresse [...] the Story of Argalus and Perthenia's Love with their many Adventures; and fatal Tragedy, one would have thought by the splendour o [...] this Chamber, that it had (at least) been th [...] Pallace of bright Phaebus, or at least a Reces [...] provided for the Poetical Gods.

Thus having brought our Mighty Hero to this Magnificent Lodging; the Most Courte­ous Olindor, and the rest of the Noble Train took their Leaves of him, recommending him to the Quietude of Downy slumbers; and having bid each other good night, with the greatest Civillity the most Generous Tongue could Express, the Valiant Patrick laid him down on an Italian Couch, made of the Rich­est green Silk Damask, under a Canopy of Pearl-Couler Sattin wrought with Flowers of Gold; and Revolving in his mind how to manage the Fortune of the following day: the heavy Morpheus with his Leaden Key Lockt up his sences in soul-refreshing sleep; and about the midst of the Night appeared to him the Resemblance of the Most Renowned St. George, having on one Arme his Gol­den Garter, on the other his Ruby Cross, and on his breast the figure of the fiery Drag­gon; his countenance was exceeding Beauti­ful, such as it had been, when he Charmed the Enchantress Kalyb: his presence was al­together Amiable and Attractive; and approach­ing the silent Bed of the sleeping Champion, he thus Accosted him:

Having said this, the Friendly Spectrum with a slow pace left the Room; whilst St. Patrick overjoy'd with the Vision awaked from his pleasant slumber, & still Imagining his Bro­ther Champion had been in the Chamber, stept out of his Bed to thank him for the extraordi­nary care he took of his Concernes; but at last finding no one, he concluded it was St. George's Angel which in such Courteous man­ner had administred this comfort to him; so returning again to his Dormitory, he passed the Night in various Cogitations until the Morning.

But what pen is able to paint out with what Celerity they Addressed themselves to their March; for no sooner had the gray Ianitor sprinkled his first Attoms of light on the darkned Ayr, foreshewing the approach of Apol­loes Chariot; but our Warlike Patrick de­scended [Page 51] into the Hall, calling for his Armour, where in a short time the Brave Olindarus, with the rest of the Young Nobles met him. The Grooms had already fitted all the Equi­pages of their Horses, and made them ready for their Masters call, and the furious Beasts stood beating the Ground with their hardy Hoofs, as if angry they were not on the March; straight as soon as the Knights had compleatly Armed themselves, the Trumpets sounded to Horse; when the mirrour of his Age, the Incomparable Olindor, came out of his Chamber to take his leave of his Son, and his Noble Guests; But first addressing himself to the Champion of Ireland, ac­knowledging the kindness of his Stars that at such a time had brought so extraordina­ry a Guest under under his Roof; adding that the fortune of his Neice, and whole Family depended on his Valour; and that he did not doubt of Victory under the Con­duct of so Worthy a Cheiftain: To which he replyed, that he wanted words to express how much he was Obliged to the goodness of the most generous Olindor; but as long as he had a hand able to weild a Sword, it should still be employed in the Service of him­self and Noble Family: Then rendring him his Knightly thanks for the large Bounties of his House, protesting he thought him the [Page 52] most Hospitable Person in the World; the Heroick Patrick would needs kiss his hand, and so went to his Horse; Then with a chear­ful countenance, embracing his Son, My O­lindarus (said he) thou art now going into the Field of Honour, to Fight the Battel of an injur'd Lady, my dear Neice; I know that when I was at thy Age, I wanted not Martial Blood; and am only grieved my Age denies me now to bear thee company in so brave an Enterprize: Let these young Sparks, that in most friendly manner bear thee Com­pany, to the Wars, see proof of the inherent Valour that dwells in Olindors Blood; nor spake I this as doubting thy brave Perfor­mance; no, my dear Olindarus, thy forward­ness and conduct in this whole Affair, hath given me a large assurance of thy readiness to enter the List, and I doubt not but I shall see thee return Loaden with Triumphs, to the eternal Honour of thy Noble Ancestors. Then giving him his Paternal Benediction, he commended them all to the Tutelage of Minerva, advising them to make choice of the thrice Famous Patrick for their Leader; which with one Voice they immediately did, it having been their resolution the night before: and with loud Acclamations confirmed their Choice, taking it as a good Omen, that they had done it by the direction of Olindor, whose [Page 53] Chariot waited in readiness to accompany them the first two Miles of their March.

CHAP. IV. Their Equipage at departing from the house of Olindor. St. Patrick arriveth at the Camp, accepteth the Challenge; with what follow­ed thereupon.

THe Famous Patrick being the Mirrour of true Chivalry, and Grrant Knight­hood, was accoutred not unsuitable to his high Quality: He had on a Suit of Armour of Sythian Steel, hardened by the Cyclops in the Forge of Vulcan, folded with joynts of Brass, and set with Studds of Gold; at the bowings of the Arms and Knees, were Figured the heads of four Monstrous and Terrible Giants, whose Eyes seemed to spartle with burning Fire: on his Breast-Plate, he wore a Harp, Curiously Composed of Diamonds set in Gold, and strung with Pearl; signifying his Native Country, and being the Cognizance thereof. As for his Target, it was of the Skins of scaly Fish, wrought into form by the Indian Magicians, and hardened by the Sun, till it was impenitrable, even by Darts pointed with the sharpest Steel; he had a Lance born by his [Page 54] Page, made of Materials so tough, as no force could brake, and had for its point the Horn of an Africane Unicorn, that would batter e­ven very Rocks. On his Head was a Mur­rion of the Finest Copper, Flowered and In­laid with Gold, and sparkling with Jems of divers sorts; in the Crest whereof, was set a ve­ry large Crimson Feather, spangled with Gold, which waving down his back, seemed like a blush­ing Cloud, gently moving before the Wind.

His Sword was supposed to be the Sire of that in Westminster-Abby, in times past so Terrible to France; it had so great Virtue, that it would dissolve Enchantments, brake in sunder Magical Rocks, and resist the force of Poyson. This Armour, as you have heard before, was found in the Enchanted Cave of Kalyb, and placed there by Minerva, to be worn by the most Valiant, and Vndaunted Chevalier in the World; the proof whereof will app [...]ar in the following History.

Nor was the Equipage of the young Olin­darus, less exquisite; for his Armour, Trap­pings and Target, were as Rich as any were ever seen in the Trojan War; where the Gal­lantry and Art of the Grecians, were to the Life expressed. All the other young Noble men his friends, had their several devices; Some in memory of their Ladies; others pour­trayed the design of their Enterprize, with o­ther [Page 55] Allusions proper to their several Passions, and Inclinations. They were all Mounted on Horses of such Admirable Shape and Cou­rage, as if Parthia, or Germany had been ransacked for their best Horse of Manage.

Never did Chieftain with more bravery Grace the Front of his Officers, than our Mighty Pa­trick lead his youthful Army to the Tryal of their Valours: All acknowledging him to be the most undoubted Captain that ever gave Law to the Sword of his Enemy.

The first day, having in most Graceful Or­der passed the Consines of Olinders Vally; they ascended a mighty Hill, which brought them into a Plain, within five Leagues of the perfidious Lymas's Army. Here they resol­ved to rest themselves that night, and take such measures as might the better fit them for an Attack the next morning: Wherefore [Page 56] the Riders dismounting, enclosed a large piece of Campaign Ground, in the midst of which they turned their Horses to Grass, that they might be the sitter for the next days Travel. Whilst our Famous Patrick, the brave Olin­darus, and some chief of the young Nobles, advised which way they might give notice to the Castle of the fair Climena of their ad­vancement towards her relief; but to their great Astonishment they were soon answered by the wonder of his Age, St. Patrick, who assu­red them, that by the Vertue of his Sword, any one might pass Incognito to the Castle, and bring them an account before the Morn­ing: Whereupon it was resolved, that the Noble Olindarus should (by the Messenger) give his Cousin a Letter of their design, which he immediately writ, in this sort.

No sooner was this Letter written and sealed, but St. Patrick laying his Enchanted Sword on the shoulder of the Page, and pronouncing the words, Presto Remigrare; the Messenger Immediatly vanished like a Bird through the Air, and in few minutes was at the besieged Castle, passing over the Camp of Lymas, as if he had been the Foot-boy of Jupiter, whilest his Magical disguise kept him unobserved by the Souldiers and Watches; and not discovering himself until he came into the presence of the Beautious Clymena: where we will leave him to receive his dispatch, and return a lit­tle to St. Patrick and his Noble Brigade, whom we left on the Plaine before-mentio­ned.

The Champaign where these Warlike Horses were grasing was without any water, so that they had little stomach to fall to their green Salet without drink, being very Thirsty with their Travail; wherefore like generous Praun­cers they carvetted round their pasture, beat­ing the Soil with indignation that afforded them nor water to asswage their Martial heat. The Famous Horse of the Irish Champion pawing on the dry ground with great disdain, suddainly there arose under his foot a large Fountain, from whence Issued such abundance of Water, as served not only for the Refresh­ment of the Horses, but their Riders, to the great Astonishment of all present: And no Wonder,

And presently after, to increase their Admira­tion, there sell amongst the Horses so great a showre of Oates and Beans, that the Cattle were Knee deep in Provender, where they wanton'd it with great Luxury, until the Trumpets the next morning sounded to Horse: And tho this Relation may pussle the belief of a Heretical Reader, yet we may account it but a Puisnie Miracle, if compared with those more Stupendious Successes that often atten­ded [Page 59] our Champion in his Heroick Adven­tures.

Now whilst the Noble Olindarus, and his brave Companions were with much wonder Contemplating on what had happened; the Page returned from the Castle of the Lady Clymena, and brought the following Letter.

This Letter being read in the presence of the Great and Mighty Champion St. Patrick, [Page 61] he immediately concluded the Gyant to be a Butt proper for him to shoot the Arrows of his high Courage at; and therefore resolveth, before Day to be upon his March to so brave an Enterprise, by no means brooking any far­ther delay; wherefore ordering the Trumpets to give the Summons at that time; they laid down to take what refreshment they could in the interim.

About three in the Morning, the Trumpets according to Order giving the Signal, they were soon mounted, their Youthful Rage boyl­ing in hope of a suddain Encounter; their Furious Horses (though on a very swift March) went Chasing with Foam, as if their Riders made not hast enough to the Fatal Bat­tle. By break of day they were come in view of Lymas's Camp, which soon took an Alarm at their unexpected approach, and were quickly in a posture of defence: But the Gyant (having swallow'd a Calf and two Sheep for his Sup­per, and drank a Firkin of Brandy as a Health to Lymas, and his next dayes success) was in so profound a sleep, that all the Cannon in the Dutch Fleet could not have awakned him; but before his Eyes were unglued, St. Patrick had levell'd a forlorn of about Sixty of their In­fantry, and struck such a Terrour into the rest, as made them give him way to enter the Castle with his Troops, which he easily [Page 62] did; for at the first hearing the Alarm, Cly­mena concluded her generous Relievers were come, and was quickly confirmed in that her Opinion; for looking towards the Camp she soon knew her Cousin Olindarus by his Horse, and a White Feather in his Helmet, which had been her Brothers; wherefore caus­ing the Castle Eates to be opened, they found a speedy entrance, none of Lymas's Men dare­ing to follow them to the Outworks.

As this unexpected Relief ministred much occasion of joy to the Besieged; who apprehen­ded the Gods had fought for them, and on so Extraordinary an Attempt received the grea­test Encouragement Imaginable: So was it of as ill Consequence to the Besiegers; who now perceived they had to do with Persons of such Incomparable Gallantry and Courage, as dreaded not the dangers, nor Terrours arising to Cowards on such occasions; but rather with greatest Resolution courted Honour in the greatest Difficulties. This made the Crafty Lymas (more then ever) rely on the force of his Monstrous Gyant, in whom alone he now rested his hope of Victory.

Nor may it seem strange, if on the alone Consideration of this Mighty Monster, Ly­mas might think himself in Condition to Chal­lenge the whole World: for he was of so vast a stature, that the Stoutest Man on Horse­back [Page 63] could scarcely reach up to his Navel; and (if Fame be not a Lyar) he was Grandsier to the King of Bombaza named Bahadercam, whose fall so signalized the V [...]lour of Cap­tain Jones. This Gyant was named Camba­gor, born on the Pyrenean Mountains, and was from his Infancy bred up in the hardships of that Climate, abounding with bitter Frosts, and Snows; and in the Company of Lyons, Bears and Tygres; out of whose Iaws (when a Boy) he rescued many a Breakfast: He would as ordinaryly fell a Lyon with a Stroak of his Fist on the Pole, as a Warren­ner kills Cunnies. He was so great an Ene­my to the Flocks of the Neighbour Villages, that he had destroyed most of them; and sent their owners into the other World for endea­vouring to protect them from his devouring Chapps. He would take the maddest Bull by the Hornes, and twist his head off.

One day being drawn down to the Sea side, he espied a Mighty Whale not far from the shore, which he thought might make a proper Booty for his greatness, wherefore casting a mighty Oak into the Sea, he bestrid it in pursuit of the Scaly Monster; and the Wind taking hold of the boughs of the Tree, drave him ashore on that Coast where Lymas had raised his Army against the chaste Clymena. At his first landing, spying a Company of Men, he [Page 64] designed immediately to Sacrifice them to the Appeasment of his all-devouring Gorge, which was then more than ordinary whetted by the sharpness of the Sea-Air: But they (soon perceiving the purpose of the Fell Monster) left the place, and resigned him the prospect of a Flock of Sheep, which at that time served him for a Supper.

His Mouth was so large, that it seemed like a Percullis, with five sets of Teeth, of that strength as would bite in sunder Barrs of Iron: The first bitt he made at Sheep, Staggs, or Bullocks, was at their Horns; which he presently snapt off, and spit out of his Mouth for fear of choaking; the rest of the body was soon dispatched down his throat, into the unsatiable fornace of his Sto­mach.

Now the Base-minded Lymas hearing of this Inhuman Monster, bribed him (with whole Heards of Cattle, and Flocks of Sheep, besides Tunns of Liquors) to put him in Pos­session of the Incomparable Clymena.

But no sooner was the ever Famous St. Pa­trick, with the rest of his Brigade, got into the Castle; (after having been Complimented by the Fair Clymena, and her lovely Philadon, for the great Honour they did them in attempting such hazardous Adventures for their sakes: and having on their parts declared their resolu­tions [Page 65] to hazzard their lives in pursuit of so glorious an Vndertaking:) but they unani­mously agreed to send Lymas this Answer to his Challenge.

And now hanging on the Castle Walls the Signal of a Message, they dispatched a Drummer to Lymas with the Answer: Who having perused it, concluded the Lady his [Page 66]

own, and fancied Cambagor had already eat his way to Clymena's presence: so seeming highly satisfied with the answer, he dismissed the Messenger, telling him, his saucy Master should dearly repent his rash Vnd [...]rtaking; by receiving due Chastisement from his just in­dignation.

No sooner was the Messenger returned, but the Gallant Philadon began to set all things in Order for this Mighty Combat, there were Galleries Erected for Clymena, and the Ladies with her on the outside of the Castle, against the plain ground; from whence they might be Spectators of the Bloody Encounter; The [Page 67] Noble Philadon, with the brave Olindarus, and the rest of the Gallant Horse that were in the Castle, drew out before the entrance of the Garrison, whilst the Infantry placed themselves on the Walls: On the other side, Lymas had drawn his Men in a Line, making as it were a boundary to the other side of the Plain; so that the middle space between the two Armies, was the Field where the ever Famous Patrick was to signalize his immortal Prowess by de­stroying the dreadfullest Gyant that ever was mentioned in Romantick Author: Whilest the Souldiers on each side were in readiness to have engaged, if any foul play should be used.

CHAP. V. The Dreadful Combat betwixt St. Patrick and the Monstrous Gyant Cambagor. His Voyage by Sea towards the Coast of Greece, and the strange Adventures that happen­ed to him in that Voyage.

NOw the appointed hour being come, wherein the Fortunes of the Incompa­rable Clymena were to be determined by the matchless Sword of the invincible St. Pa­trick, he marched out of the Castle to the Plain before mentioned, attended by the princi­pal of the Nobility most splendidly Accoutred, with such gayity of Plumes, Embroideries, Paintings, Guildings; as if they had been go­ing to the Nuptials of some Magnificent Em­perour; the very Aire receiving Lustre from the dazeling splendour of their Armes and Trappings; and the Vally resounded with the Eccho of their Silver Trumpets. They found the Monstrous Cambagor already entred the Lists, (he being the Challenger) his very appearance struck a terrible apprehension into most of the Spctators, by the dreadful gashful­ness of his grim Countenance; his heighth was about thirty foot, so that those that had not lived in an Age of Gyants, would have took [Page 69] him for a walking Steeple; for compared to him the Monsters in the Guild-Hall, would have seemed to be but Pigmie-Pages: His Shield was the Hull of a Ship, his Spear a mighty Mast, pointed at the Top with half a Tun of Iron; at his back was hung a Club, being the Body of a mighty Oak; for any thing less ponderous seemed but as a feather in his hand. Our glorious Champion St. Patrick was mounted on his own trusty Coursor, and Armed at all points as was before described, with that Enchanted Armour found in the Magical Cave, which no force of Wea­pon could penetrate; and though for Stature of Body he came very short of the Over-grown Gyant, yet he far exceeded him in Courage; and was not much inferiour to him for strength of Body, which joined to the greatness of his Valour, made large amends for the dispropor­tion of his Stature.

Having view'd his Monstrous Antagonist, the ever-Famous Patrick rid gently to him, and denouncing a generous and brave Defi­ance, he alighted from off his Horse, counting it dishonourable for so great a Champion to Fight even a Monstrous Gyant at such disadvantage: So taking his Target and Spear, he began the most Tremendous Com­bat [Page 70] that ever was related, there having never been so glorious a Victory obtained at so vast a disadvantage.

The Gyant with Prodigious force made a blow with his mighty Spear at the Head of St. Patrick, which he nimbly avoiding, with a suddain thrust of his Lance, gave the Mon­ster a wound in the right Knee; the horned point of it sticking so fast in the Ioynt, that our Champion was fain to jerk with all his strength to recover it again; at that, the Fell Gyant fetching another blow at his Head, enough to have battered a Rock; St. Patrick with his Target cast it off on his Shoul­der, the weight of it sending him to the ground; but falling only on his Breech, he rose with such nimble advantage, that his Spear found way through the keel of the Gyants Shield to wound him in the Arm; Cambagor's Spear breaking with the last stroke he made on St. Patricks Shoulder: And finding his Shield not Proof against the Irresistable force of his Weapon, he cast it down with such Violence, that it brake in pieces on the ground; then betaking himself to his mighty Club, he laid about him with such fury, as must soon have dasht our Champion to Attoms, had not the Excellence [Page 71] of his Armor, and the wonderful strength of his Constitution preserved him. This En­counter continued long, and to the great A­stonishment of all the Spectators, who were struck, with wonder to see a Man of Ordinary Size and Proportion resist, and overcome the Violence of such a mighty Monster.

Full many a Death-threatning blow had our brave Hero put by with his Glassy Target, which sometimes would rebound them with such unexpected Violence, that Cambagor could scarce avoid measuring his length on the Ground, being overpoised with the force of his own blows; yet could never make any Im­pression on the body of our hardy Knight; who now laying by his Lance, suddainly drew his Fatal Sword, which in little time had chopt off so much of his Club, as made the weight of it much less Offensive to him: At last the Gyant making a full blow at our Noble Knight with all his might, thinking therewith to have dasht him into the Earth, our Nimble Hero received it upon the Edge of the Sword, which split the remainder of the Club in two parts: and weary of the long Encounter, with great indignation, he slang his Sword at the Face of the Monster; be­ing fully assured it would not fail of some notable Execution: He threw it with so migh­ty force, that the Edge taking against the Gy­ants [Page 72]

Neck, it immediately made a separation between his head and body; so that his Mon­strous Head fell like a Mountain to the Earth, at which the huge Supporters (that were like two great Trees) failing; the vast bulk of his body fell to the Ground, and resigned his frightful Soul to Pluto.

Thus fell this Terrible and Formidable Gyant Cambagor by the hand of that wonder of the World, the Mighty Patrick, who (had he lived) would in short time have devoured the Cattle of a Kingdom: The which Hero­ick Action filled the Air with the loud Shouts and Acclamations of all about the Castle, whilst [Page 73] the Camp of Lymas were in great Conster­nation for the loss of their (as they thought) Invincible Champion.

At the sight hereof, the Princely Philadon advanced, to pursue the Noble Victory by revenging his wrongs upon the Person of the Trayterous Lymas: who was so far from appearing as Second to his boasted Champion, that on slght of his Fall, he withdrew into the Rear of his Army, and suddainly rid out of the Field; whilst the Noble Philadon with great honour demanded him to make good his Challenge: But he not being to be found by the Officers of his Army; and they having advice from the Rear, that he had quitted the Field, immediately broke their Commissions; acknowledging to the Generous Philadon the Injustice of their Quarrel; and taking an Oath never more to appear in so unworthy a Cause; they forthwith dismis [...] their Souldiers, who were weary of serving so bad a Master; and disperst themselves to their respective Ha­bitations. Some of Lymas's Neighbours taking the Road that lead to his Country, espyed him in a Field about a Mile distant from the Camp; where he had turned Exe­cutioner to himself, and with his own hands had hanged himself to a Tree near the way side: this Spectacle much Confirmed them in their Opinions of the baseness of his enter­prise, [Page 74] whilst they there saw him tyed up to the Destiny usually attending Cowards in Despair. Where we will leave him exposed to the Eternal Infamy and Terrour of such Barbarous and Inhuman Villains; and re­turn again to the Castle, which now resound­ed with nothing but the High praises of the Invincible St. Patrick.

They divided the Body of the Gyant into four Quarters, which were sent to four Principal Cities of the Realm, to be fixed on the Gates in Memory of so famous an Ex­ploit; the Head was carried into the Castle, and fastned on a Pole over the Gate of En­trance: St. Patrick having only taken a Lock of his Beard, which he ever after wore fastned to his Plume on the Crest of his Helmet, as a Trophie of his unmatcht Val­lour, and undoubted Prowess.

Thus by the Courage of this Puissant He­ro, was the Fair Clymena delivered from the Cruel Seige of the most Infamous Lymas, the Noble Philadon rid of his unworthy Ri­val, and the whole World freed from the ap­prehensions of the Salvage Cambagor.

That Night was spent in all the Solem­nities of Rejoycing, the straightness of the time would afford, by fiering of Guns, ma­king of Bonfiers, and Martial Consorts of their Drums and Trumpets; whilst the [Page 75] Princely Clymena, with a Noble Trayn of Beautious Ladyes came to kiss the hand of her great Benefactor: The Courteous Philadon, the brave Olindarus, with the rest of the Young Lords, striving which should exceed the other in passing the highest Complements and En­comiums on so unparalleld an Adventure: The Incomparable St. Patrick with the grea­test Gallantry Imaginable returned their high Caresses with this Generous Answer:

That all that had been done, and what ever else lay in his Power to perform, was but too little to shew the great Service he had for Persons of their Extraordinary Figure, and high Perfections. Adding, that what had happened, must rather be imputed to the influence of Clymena's Stars, that fa­voured the Justice of her Cause; so that it was Impossible an Action so glorious could fail of Success, tho attempted by a weaker hand.

In the mean time, whilest these great He­roes were entertertaining the Champion with these Rhetorical Harangues; the Servants of Clymena had made provision of a Magnifi­cent supper, not unsuitable to the Extraordi­nariness of the Occasion. The Nobles and Ladyes sitting down in the Hall, were ser­ved [Page 76] with all the Choice Variety the greatest Pallace could Boast of; They testified their hearty Congratulation of that Dayes Suc­cess by plentiful Glasses of rich Wine, with which the Table abounded; whilst a Musical Consort of Harps and Viols feasted their Ears with this

The Song ended; the Spatious Hall rung with another Consort, which was of Huzza's, whilst a Health was drank round to the Fa­mous Patrick Champion of Ireland; which he requited by beginning another to the Hos­pitable and Noble Lord Olindor, Father of [Page 77] Olindarus, and Vnkle to Clymena; and so in Order, till a Glass had been pledged to every particular Persons health at that Noble Table. Nor were the Common Souldiers without a large share of the Bountious En­tertainment of that Night; for many Vessels of Wine, and other Excellent Liquors were placed in the Court amongst them; with a great plenty of Beef, Venison, Lamb, and other Extraordinary Provision, answerable to the Grandure of the Lady of that Mansion: so that a Vniversal Ioy diffused it self through the whole Castle, and was Legible in every face; and every Tongue thought it self not well Employed, that sounded not the High Praises of the most Famous St. Pa­trick, whose insuperable Courage, brave Con­duct, and stupendious Success, was now be­come the Discourse and Wonder of all Peo­ple.

This was that night (wherein the base­minded Lymas designed to have wantoned in the Ruine of Clymena's Honour; to have Tryumphed in the Overthrow of Philadon, and have made himself Lord of that Prince­ly Castle) turned into a Jubilee for the defeat of the wretched Lymas; the slaughter of the barbarous Cambagor, and the mighty delive­rance of Phyladon, and Clymena.

They spent their time in Vnwearied Ca­resses, and Brisk Entertainments, until Chanticlere had summoned the Morning to open the Portals of the East: when by Vna­nimous Consent, all addressed themselves to make Truce with Morpheus for the repose of some Hours, to fit them the better for the bu­siness of the Following day. Therefore con­ducting the renowned St. Patrick to a most Princely Apartment appointed for him, they left him to reflect on the Transactions of that day, and to thank his Stars for their happy influence.

So soon as the brave Olindarus awaked the next Morning, he might perceive the Burn­ished Chariot of Apollow, had ascended the Olympick Hill, almost Six hours Iourney; when (willing that the Youth, which in cour­teous manner had attended him, should no longer be kept from their doubtful Relations; and desirous to carry home the glad Tydings of this Glorious Victory, to the concerned O­lindor) he gave his Trumpets Order to give the Signal, that his Company should pre­pare to Horse; so that by that time they were ready, he with his young Nobles, had taken their leaves of the Generous Philadon, and the lovely Clymena, and attended the Apart­ment of the Worlds Wonder, St. Patrick, where kissing his hand, and receiving of him [Page 79] many Testimonies of the great Opinion he had of them, highly applauding them for their Gallantry, in offering themselves on that Oc­casion in the service of the excellent Clymena: Embracing the Princely Youth Olindarus, and by him sending the most grateful acknow­ledgments imaginable to his Noble Host Olin­dor; they parted: St. Patrick accompanying them to the outer Gate of the Castle, and some of the Principal of the Gentlemen at­tending them some Miles on their march.

Never was the Loud Trump of Fame set in Work, on a more Wonderful Occasion, than this great Overthrow of the Dreadful Cam­bagor; she had almost burst her swolne Cheeks with making the sound rattle through the Wel­kin: So that now all the Admirers of Great and Heroick Acts, bent their Course to Cly­mena's Castle to pay their Homage to the more than Humane St. Patrick; whom they had much ado to forbear Adoring: Many Statues were Erected in memory of this Famous Ex­ploit, and the mighty Champions in Forraign Parts, stood Amazed at the report of so Mar­vellous an Adventure. But notwithstanding, our Worthy Knight were dayly wayted on, and Congratulated by the greatest Lords of the Country, and treated with a profusion of Dainties, besitting the Grandure of the great­est Monarch: yet did none of these Charming [Page 80] Entertainments relish with our Martial He­roe, whose great Courage could not stoop to the soft Pleasures of an Easie and Effemi­nate Life; but putting on a resolution to give a taste of his Extraordinary Valour to remoter parts of the World, and to signalize his Prowess where-ever Fame. had a Register to Record it; he went to the lovely pair Phi­ladon and Clymena, signifying to them his Determination speedily to depart in quest of farther Honour, and to add new Trophies to his Mighty Courage.

The Fair Lovers heard their Mighty Guar­dian with no small trouble, considering they were now like to part with the Defendant of their Lives, the Cherisher of their Loves, and Family, and the undoubted glory of Hu­man Race; but however submitting to his Resolution, they only requested him as he had been the happy Champion of their Affections; and had thereby enroled his own Name in the Temple of Mars; he would please to continue a few Dayes to see Theirs entred in the Tem­ple of Hymen: and as by his Stupendious Valour he had preserved the Beauteous Cly­mena for her Philadon, he would afford them the farther Honour to see them Ratifie their mutual Vows, by performing the Sacred Rights. The most Complaisant Heroe grant­ed their request, and in the mean time put all [Page 81] things in readiness for his Voyage; He hired a Ship in an adjoyning Port, and furnished it with Mariners; and all conveniencies of Victuals and other Necessaries; he sent also his Magical Armour on board, and fitted a place for his trusty Steed Crapearo (for that was his Name, as Authors notifie) likewise he sent on board divers Chests, and Trunks fil­led with Extraordinary rarities to an un­known Value, that had been presented him by the grateful Clymena, and her beloved Phila­don.

Whilst the Renowned Patrick was thus fit­ting all things for his Voyage, the two Lovers had prepared themselves for the long-wisht for Nuptials; the glad Morning was come; the fair Bride was awaked with an Excellent noise of Wind-Musick, the Hymeneal Lamps were Kindled, the Virgins were ready, the Priest attended, whilst the Altar of the lofty Temple perfumed its stately Roof with Clouds of Sacred Incence. All things being ready, they proceeded in this Order.

First went twenty four Damsels in white Satten playing on Pipes, and Timbrils after the Antient manner, then twelve beautiful Boyes about twelve years of age, carrying large Candles burning of purest Virgin War, they were habited in Cloath of Silver, with Starves of Pink-Colour Silk; after them the [Page 82] Priest in his Miter, and Pontificallibus for that Occasion; then was the Bride Conducted by the Noble young Olindarus, and another Noble Man of Principal Quality; her Gown was of Pearl-Coloured Sattin, wrought with True-loves-knots, and Flowers of Sil­ver; over all, a large Veil of the finest Tif­fany: The young Lords were in Vests of Green Silk, richly said with Gold lace, hav­ing white Beavors, with Curious plumes of Snow-white Feathers, tipt with Pink-colour. After her, followed a fair train of Young La­dies of Principal Quality, in dresses Extraor­dinary rich, wherein the skill of the best-famed Taylers had been Employed, being attended with many little Pages in very proper Live­ries, each wearing according to the Device and Phancy of his Mistress. After these, came the Princely Bridegroom in a vest of Sky-coloured Sattin curiously Embroidered with Silver and Pearl; having on his Breast a Golden Harp set with Diamonds, after the Order of St. Patrick, who had bestowed that on him as a Badge in Memory of the Irish Champion that slew the Gyant; on one shoul­der he had cast a Pearl-coloured Mantle wrought with hearts, and Roses of Gold: he was sup­ported by two Beautiful Maidens of Noble de­scent, in Vestures of Lemon-colour, and Car­nation Silk, made somwhat short, that their [Page 83] Satten Buskens might appear, which were of Carnation Satten Embroidered, and set with Silver Bells: On their Heads they had Tyara's of Feathers, of Skie, White, and Pink-colour: after them came the Noble Old Lord Olindor, Vnkle to the Bride, and on his Right hand the Most Renowned Champi­on St. Patrick, being followed by a very Honou­rable Company of Young Lords and Gentle­men of principal Quality: Divers Chariots and Coaches attended, wherein after the Ce­remony was performed, this Princely Compa­ny placed themselves; and in great Pomp and Admirable Order returned to the Castle, which from this time we must call Philadons.

Nothing imaginable was Omitted, that might express the Bounty of the Bridegroom, and his Bride, or the high Welcom of the No­ble Guests. The Bells rung at the Temple, the Trumpets Ecchoed on the Castle walls, the Hall resounded with Musical Instruments; and after the Second Course had been ser­ved at Table, this Song was Sung to a well-tuned Consort of Lutes, in praise of the Fair Bride.

Whilst their Ears were thus delighted with divers sorts of Excellent Musick, plentiful Healths of Noble Wine went round the Table, after that of the new-made Husband and Wife; a large Brimmer was Consecra­ted to the Health of their ever Famous Pa­tron and Champion the Heroick St. Patrick, accompanied with loud Acclamations in ac­knowledgment of his Memorable Adventure in the Destruction of the Monster Cambagor. Thus with Dances and other Diversions sui­table to the Occasion, they spent the Night; whilst the Noble Philadon, and beautious Clymena withdrew to their Bridal Chamber, there to taste those more refined delights that were to Crown that Festival. The rest of the Company, as they saw occasion, retiring to their respective Dormitories.

No sooner had the Glorious Charioter of the Spheres the next Morning with his re­fulgent beams guilded the tops of the Moun­taines, and opened a most pleasant prospect over the Fertil Plains; but our St. Patrick, the true Mirrour of brave Chivalry left the soft repose of his downy Pillow; and tyred with the un-souldierly delights of an Idle Luxury; his Martial Soul set forward in pursuit of those Noble Glories, that must give a farther Honour to his Renowned Shield, and set the Pupils of Pernassus on [Page 86] work, to erect Collums to his high Praises. So that he presently gave order to his Page to fit his Horse with a suit of Extraordinary rich Furniture that had been presented him (amongst many other Rarities) by Clymena; he had on a stately Coat of Male, a Cosset & Beavor of Gold, with a large Milk-white Plume, having tyed to it the lock of Camba­gors Beard, a Scarf of Carnation Sassnet; whereon, by the Art of a curious Needle, were lively Expressed Gyants heads Embellished with Gold: This was likewise presented by the Noble Bride; for as we told you before, St. Patrick had sent his Enchanted Armour, with other Curiosities on board his Ship. Being thus Equipped, he came to bid farewel to the Gallant Bridegroom; and Beautious Bride, who had dressed themselves sooner than ordinary that Morning to take their Leave of our Famous Champion; the Old Lord Olindor, and his Son the brave Olin­darus were likewise ready to pay their part­ing respects to him: So that coming all to­gether into the Hall, they there passed such mutual Compliments, as were agreeable to such a Season: Then the Princely Hero departed in order to take his Horse, but that was prevented by the ever Courteous Olindor who had ordered his Chariot to be ready that he might accompany the Admired Pa­trick [Page 87] on his was to the Port, all the Gal­lants waited on him to the Gate, and Philadon & Clymena had likewise their Chariot ready to have born him Company, but he would by no means permit it; so that compelling them to tarry behind, they there took their last leave of him; only the Young Olindarus accompa­nied his Aged Father, who having placed our Champion at his right hand, made his Man drive until he had brought St. Patrick over a Bridge five Miles on his way; where alight­ing they embraced, and gave each other the most hearty Testimonies of an Inviolable Friendship; Here our Matchless Knight Mounting his own Horse (which had been led by his Page) took his direct way to the Port, whilest the Noble Olindor and his Son re­turned to the Castle of Philadon.

Early in the Evening they arrived at the Port, and presently went on Board; and find­ing the wind favourable, forthwith hoisted Sail for the Coast of Greece, where we must now trace our Famous Patrick doing such wonders as would pusle any but a Ro­mantick Faith. Neptune had now with his Trident smoothed the tangled Curles of Thetis Billows, the surface of the Deep had put on such an even level, as might invite the Halcion to build; her Mountainous Waves were so depressed, as if the Watry [Page 88] God had paved a way over her Rugged Chan­nel for the Vessel of so great a Champion to pass smoothly on; the Sturgeons, Dol­phins, with other the Scally Inhabitants, danced and played about the Ship; as being glad a Knight, the wonder of the Land, should Honour their Element with his Renowned burthen: The surly Emperour of the Eolean Cave had likewise musled his Roaring Blus­ters, so that there seemed to be an Amicable trute between the Airy and the Watry Re­gions: Never was obtained such a sereni­nity since the enraged Neptune hust the Loud-Tongued Troops from his Briny Do­minions, when they assaulted the Trojan Cheif­tain.

But as usually, the greatest Successes are attended with some Cross and disasterous Ac­cidents; and the Shining Planet Phebus having performed his daily task, his resplendent Rays, give place to the shades of Gloomy Darkness, and the sad solitudes of the succeeding Night: So this Glorious Tranquility met with a Misfortune, not unusually attending those that Travel on the Vast Watery Desart. For ha­ving now passed several days in an undisturbed Quietude, they at last met with a very strange Adventure, which happened in this sort.

Passing by an Island remote from any Continent, a mighty Whale, the Gyant of [Page 89] the Ocean, met their Vessel, which being of no great Bulk, and the Night such, as they discerned not the approach of so Potent a Foe, suddenly putting her self under one side of the Ship, Violently Overthrew it in the Sea; so that, but few of the men were saved be­side the Famous Patrick, his Page Mac, and five others, who being not far from the shore, made a shift to get to the Island, where with much bitterness they endured the Wet and Cold of the Night, untill the next Morning; when casting their Eyes to the place of the miserable Wreck, they espyed the Overthrown Vessel floating on the Water, and the huge Whale still plying her self about it; whereat, the Enraged Champion taking up a keen stone from the Sea side, Flang it with such force at the Whale, that it cut a large wound through his side, whereat issued such abun­dance of Blood as stained the Water a great wayes round the Place; the Beast finding her self sorely wounded (as the Nature of the Whale is) made to the Shore, and cast her self on the Sands not far from the place where St. Patrick was; where wanting Water to carry her off, she in little time dyed for want of her own Element: Our Cham­pion and his Men dividing the Vast Body into divers parts, got it so far on Land, as was beyond the power of the Sea to fetch [Page 90] her off again. Amidst the Horrour of their present Disaster, it was a little relief to con­sider that the Fatal work of their overthrow should so soon, and by so strange means re­ceive Punishment for the Irreparable injury. But what can resist the hand of St. Patrick, when the Monsters of the Land and Sea, fall before his Mighty Puissance?

CHAP. VI. How St. Patrick recovered his Vessel, the Miracle of his Horse Crapearo, and what happened in the farther prosecution of his Voyage to Greece.

VVHilst our Ship-wrackt Passengers were in great thoughtfulness how they should get off the Island, and prosecute the de­signed Voyage; there being on the place, no Inhabitant, nor any Convenience that could give them any hope of a suppply for their Ne­cessities; whilst some of them even wisht they had been drowned with their Fellows, for fear of the miseries they were like farther to suffer: Our matchless Hero, both by the ex­ample of his admirable Patience, and the great bravery of his Courageous speeches, so heart­ned them, that it seemed, as if he had convey'd [Page 91] a new Soul into their Bodyes; such Vertues doth the very presence of a Valiant man in­fuse, even into very Cow-heads; but he that never knew what it was to fear, thought it could be of no use to him now; besides, it would argue a great Pusilanimity of Soul, which would ill become a Person cut out to be famous to all Posterity. Whilst therefore he was sweetning his fellow sufferers with the most Sugar'd Exhortations he could on the sud­dain invent, and in which (too) he was very dexterous; so the kind waves (relenting the loss of so Famous a Champion had on their Element) threw the Wreck so near to the shoar, that they could lay hold on some of the Tackling; when our nev [...]r-enough-Admired Patrick, setting both hands with all his might to the Stern, turned the Vessel clear upon her Keel: But you must imagine, the falling back of the Water, helped much towards the effecting thereof: But Alas! if there had been no water at all, it could not have been impos­sible for him to perform; with whom Mira­cles were as common, as for us to put on and off our Cloaths. The Seamen seeing this Wonder of his Sex, had again put them in a possibility of Saving themselves, soon got upon the Deck, and looking into the Hold, they might there discern the None-such Cra­pearo still alive: For you must know, that the [Page 92] Whale had cast the Vessel into such a posture, that the water could not get in, because all the Hatches and Port-holes where the Air might get out, were stopped; and so the Ship remained like a woodden Bowl, reversed on a Tub of Water, which because the Air is pent in, keeps out the other Element; some of the Seamen too, which they thought had peri­shed, were found alive under the Hatches, to the exceeding Comfort of St. Patrick, and the rest of their Ships Company: But our poor Cra­pearo was somewhat battered on his Cheek, Side, and Thigh, by the turning of the Vessel; when St. Patrick, only smoothing his hand over it, it presently grew whole, and Skin and Hair came on it in the same instant; so that there was no sign of any hurt had been there.

Then viewing the Trunks and Chests wherein the Noble Champions Rich Habili­ments were packed, they found they had re­ceived no damage at all; and though the Ma­gical Sword had lain in the Water, yet such was the Virtue of it, that it preserved from Rust, and had no apparent injury: But yet one Principal Thing was missing; for the Victuals being stowed in one of the upper Decks, where the Hatches were open, they were all fallen out, and carryed away by vi­olence of the water, so that there was not so much as a Cheese, a dish of Pease, a piece [Page 93] of Beef or Pork left, only a Barrel of Bis­kets remained, that had been stowed in the Pursers Cabin.

This now began to be a new Extremity, for the day was pretty far spent, in Toyling about the Ship, to set her again at Rights, and with the extream Cold, and Mischance of the Foregoing Night, they were in a very Faint Condition; and now again began to conclude all Lost; when St. Patrick Luckily casting his Eye to the Land, might perceive a Beast at a distance, resembling a Woolf, and as he thought, carrying a Sheep in his

mouth; whereat he forthwith got to Shore, ta­king [Page 94] with him his Trusty Sword, and resol­ving to make the Beast part with her Prey to him: But O Wonderful! no sooner was this Gallant Knight come on Land, but the Woolf made towards him, moving her Tail in seeming Kindness, and fawning upon him, layd the Sheep at his feet, without offering any the least Violence to our mighty Cham­pion; then inclining her head to the ground, she cast out of her mouth the Quarters of a Lamb, which she had newly killed, and it seems brought there for the Entertainment of these Travellers: So having done her Errand, the Woolf departed to her Den. This Relation may perhaps pusle some In­credulous People, but those who were acquaint­ed with the Irish Patron, know, that when he was a Boy, and kept his Aunts Flock, he would ordinarily make the VVoolves restore the Lambs they had taken from her Fold.

Thus by the Assistance of this Famous Man, were the poor fainting Sea-men, once more in a prospect of somewhat to asswage their Hunger; but now (as if Nature had made defects on purpose, that the Famous Pa­trick might supply them,) there was not one stick of Wood to be found on the whole Island; so that unless they should make a Fire of their Ships-Tackling, they could have nothing to Broil their Meat: Wherefore the Vigilant [Page 95] Champion searching about, came at last to a Pond of Water, which was Frozen over by the extream Cold of the Season: therefore ordering his Men to brake up the Ice, they fell to Work upon it; and as it broke, it splitted into gads and pieces, like Billets of Wood; whereat, the Hero laying some of them to­gether, and rubbing them with the point of his Sword, they immediately took Fire, and burnt like states of Deal, or Scotch-Coal; by which they soon Roasted their Mutton, and Lamb, and Boyled several pieces of the Fish, out of which came such abundance of Oyl, as served them for Dripping and Sauce for their other Meat.

The Servants of St. Patrick being Fed, and Replenished, began now to conclude, that it was impossible for them to want any thing whilest they were with such a Master, that could make the Sea cast him up Fish, the Wolves provide him Flesh, and the Water to yield him Fire; so that now being revived with Victuals, and such Considerations, they lustily apply themselves to fit their Vessel for her farther Voyage, resolving not to desert so notable a Master, even in the most hazardous Adventures.

In few days, by their great Industry, the Ship was again fitted for her Voyage; but then, not knowing, how long it might be before [Page 96] they might come at a place to Victual, and hav­ing as yet no farther supply, but what the Care, and Wondrous Fortune of St. Patrick daily provided for them, they therefore besought him not to Adventure on an unknown Sea, un­till there were some probability for their sub­sistence; adding, they might with less appear­ance of Danger, continue on the Island, where they had found Food, than trust the merciless Ocean, where it would be impossible for them to live, without a store of Provision. But the Mirrour of Rnighthood, St. patrick, made them this Reply: That it would ill become the Gods, whose Champion he was, not to make provision for him, whilst he was in pursuit of such Glorious Atchievements as should make Altars be reared to them; and their Temples resound with the loud Praises of his mighty Chivalry: That they did very ill to distrust the benignity of his Stars, ha­ving had so late proof of the great Success which always attends Heroick minds, since even all the Elements Conspire to serve them. That he had met with no opposition from productions purely vulgar, or in the com­mon course of Nature; for they saw that even the most Salvage and Ravening Woolves (contrary to their Natural disposition) Mi­nistred to him: but the danger he had me withal, was only from Monsters, and those th [...] [Page 97] Mightiest Products of the Land, and Water; Both which notwithstanding had paid their Lives a Tribute to his Knightly Valour. Then looking on them with a chearful Coun­tenance, and somwhat raising his Voice. Courage (said he) my Mates; you shall see the never failing Fortune that attend Gal­lant Minds.

So carrying on board that small Portion of Food they had left, they with great resolution Embarked, and put again to Sea; being In­couraged by the brave Expressions and high Courage of their Valiant Leader.

But now the Cross Fates had their Game to play, which they did to their utmost, all the Evil and Malignant Aspects assisting; to break (if possible) the Vistorious success of this Invincible Champion: For you must under­stand the Island they were under was Sci­tuate in a Climate under the Dominion of Evil Spirits, by which only it was Inhabi­ted: all the Familiars of the Famous Magi­cians, Wizzards, Conjurers, and Witches had Resort hither; here they kept their Rendezuous and general Councils; to which many times they invited those of Lappland, and Finnland as Assistants: But none of these Furies durst shew themselves, or give the least signification of their being there▪ whilst our great Hero [Page 98] was on the shore; knowing that by the Migh­ty Virtue of his Sword, they must all have been dispersed, their Charmes dissolved; and their Kingdom destroyed; therefore they enter­tained him with a great Serenity whilst on the Land: But now having got him on the Watry Stage, they resolve to shew all their Mallice, to joyne all their Force, and em­ploy all their Hellish Arts towards his over­throw.

Scarce were they got three Leagues from the shore, before the Little primate was sur­rounded with Shoales of Witchy Syrens, danc­ing on the top of the Water, combing their blew Locks, and Singing their Ominous Notes; which were Intended for the Funeral dirges and Exequies of the great Patrick, and his Ships-Company.

Many of which seemed strangely pleased at the Novelty of the sight; till the Sea Rising, the Waves clashing, the Billowes Roaring, the Skie Darkened, and Flashing with Tre­mendeous Fireballs, convinced them, that these Watry Nimphs were the unlucky forerunners of most destructive Tempests. Now indeed was the face of things altered to the greatest disadvantage; the Air was so pitchy-black with the horrid vizour drawn over the Horizon that they could scarce discerne one the other, unless sometime by the Flashes of Lightening; which [Page 99] made the sturdy Axel-tree to crack again with its loud roaring Thunder, The trembling Vessel was kickt about on the Surges like a Foot-ball in Tuttle-Fields; sometimes moun­ted to the Clouds, by and by sink down be­tween watry Mountains, that seem'd on eve­ry side to be tumbling in upon her; the Keell crackt, the main-Mast was broken, and the Seamen now reduced to desperation; that they could have been content to drown for fear of farther Danger; Only the undaunted Champion amidst all this disorder stood with his unconquerable Sword drawn, as if he would Challenge Neptune, and all the Gods of the Ocean; no more was he dismayed at the rolling of the Sea, then if he had been at Olindors Table; but like a Son of true Va­lour had his Courage most Elevated in the lowest Ebb of Adversity, and casting a Mag­nanimous Aspect on the insulting Billows; Proud Waves (said he) think not by your loud clamour, and impetuous noise to daunt him that values not all the Violence of Mis­fortune; for were I astride on one your curled backs, my great Soul should so buoy me up, that I would despise a Squardron of Tri­tons, or a Troop of your Gygantick Levi­athans. Still the noise of the Tumultuous Air grew Lowder, and was augmented by the schrieks and cryes of divers friendly Spirits [Page 100] which surrounded the Ship; and casting his Eye towards the miss [...]n Mast, our Patrick espied the Spirit of the great Sorceress Kalyb, his old Adversary; she indeed was the main raiser of all this horrid Tempest; for no sooner had she perceived the dissolver of her Magi­cal Charmes set foot on that unlucky Island; but straight she whispers among all the De­mons, what extraordinary Person our Famous Hero was; How belov'd by the Gods, and brought into the World under such an Aspect, as would certainly make him Victorious over all that oppose him: He hath already (conti­nued she) ruined me, and destroyed my Ma­gical Empire: But let us try what our united Forces can do towards his Over­throw, that our Infernal Kingdom may no more be over-mastred by his proud Suc­cesses.

Thus having said, they all consented to endeavour the drowning of our Mighty Cham­pion on the Ocean: But no sooner had he espied the shade of the Hellish Kalyb; but fixing his piercing Eye upon her Airy form: Base Hagg (quoth he) and hast thou yet such interest in the lower World, that thou canst suborn and raise such Violence against Hu­mane race; Know, that I Patrick have de­termined thy final overthrow, and by the power of this Sword (whose force thou hast [Page 101] already felt) I conjure thee not to stir from that place, until my vertuous Hand send thy Fantastick form into the Empty Aire. Thus said he, ordered his Men to hoist him up to the Mast, where being drawn up by the Tackling, and Elevated just of a heigth even with the Spectre of the Witch, he let drive a blow with his Inchanted Sword, that you might have seen the Spirit split in two parts, which immediatly vanished into the Air, and dissolved it self in a Pillar of Smoaky At­toms: All the other Demons with hideous yells and infernal noises, leaving the Vessel to pursue her Voyage.

CHAP. VII. St. Patricks Adventures in the Grecian and Eastern Countries.

NO sooner were these Goblins dispersed, but the Sky was so clear, you could not discern the sign of a Cloud; the Ocean was as smooth as a Billiard Table, and all things appeared as if there had been no Storm at all; the very Masts and Shrouds which seemed to have been broken, were on search found sound, and without defect: Only the Seamen passing through so many Scenes of [Page 102] Miracles were almost Petrifyed with wonder. Now might you see the proud Frigat sliding o're the smiling Main, before the easie blast of a gentle gale, viewing her stately Masts, and glittering Sterne in the Christal Flood, whilst Silver-Whitings, Enammell'd Salmons, and broad Turbants, of their owne accord present­ed themselves on the deck to feast the Princely Champion, to whom Neptune seemed to have resigned the Dominion of the Sea. Nor was the Lord of the Airy Region behind hand with his presents to our Valiant Hero, for Duck, Teal, and Widgeon, with all other sorts of Water Fowle came to the Ship in such a­bundance, that they were forced to cast many of them over into the Sea.

Now entering the Mediteranian Sea, they passed by the Rich Countryes of Spain, Italy, and the Coast of Barbary; and putting in­to one of the Ports belonging to the King­dom of Naples, they furnished their Ship with such Necessaries as they stood in need of; and then continued their Voyage towards the Archipellago: where meeting with two great Ga [...]lies belonging to the Turkish Port, they were saluted with a Thundring Broad-Side from the first, which laid the Main-Mast flat upon Deck; so that it was in vain to hope by flight to Escape their fury: But had the Vessel had all her Whings, the great Pa­trick [Page 103] who never knew what 'twas to turn his back upon danger; bravely animated his men to a Noble defence, assuring them, if once the Turks came to Grapple with him, they should dearly pay for. the damage they had sus­tained by them; then the other Gally com­ing up, Gaulled the other side of our Cham­pions Ship with showres of small shot; but they found not the brave Irish Knight un­gratefull to any of their Attacques; for he so well played his Port-holes, that he might per­ceive divers breaches his shot had made in the huge sides of their large Gallies; besides, ma­ny of their men that had been laid upon Deck by his Musquets: The brave resistance that our Noble Chevalier made, striking no small Terrour into the Turkish Commanders; who being much incensed to see two great Gallies so defeated by a small Friggot; one of them with furious resolution clapping on his grapling Irons, endeavoured to board the ship of our Noble Patrick, but was preven­ted by his Courage: for no sooner perceived he that the vessels were linked together, but forth­with with a Courage Exceeding all but him­self, he leapt on Board the Turk, and in little time had covered the Deck, with Bodies that were mowed down like stubble by his Victori­ous Sword; then seeing the way clear to the Captain, he made up to him with such brave­ry, [Page 104] that the Infidel, was going to deliver him his Cimeter; Know base Dogg (said the mighty Patrick) That thy Fawning shall not so Reconcile me to thy Bestial Submission, but I will send thy black Soul, to tell those that are sent before thee, that thy Brutish Cruelties, have received their just Recom­pence at my Unconquerable Hand. And at that word giving him a downright blow upon the Head, he broke his Cimeter, with which he endeavoured to defend himself, and parted his Head in two parts just in the midst; so that one half falling on the right shoulder, and the other on the left; and in this Posture carried them into the other World, as a double Tro­phy to the Valour of St. Patrick. The re­maining few in that Gally seeing the Fate of their Leader, and fellow Souldiers, fell at his feet, beseeching him to spare their Contempti­ble Lives, that they might make known among their Country men, the High Praises due to his Inimitable Valour. His generous Heat being pacified with their humble Submissions, easily was prevailed upon to give them their worthless Lives: Then securing them un­der one of their own Hatches; he turned to see what was become of the other Gally; but her Commander seeing the Fate of his Brother Pyrate, had wisely Conveyed his Vessel so far out of the Storm, that it being near Night, [Page 105] and St. Patricks Vessel much disabled, he thought not fit at that time to make after Her: but ordering his men to take notice of what loss had hapned amongst the Turks, they found that two Hundred and Eighty had fallen by the alone hand of St. Patrick, besides the Captain: which Bodies having been thrown over Board, they returned to Examine the Va­lue of their Prize, which could not well be Computed, she being most Richly Loaden with abundance of Silks; besides great store of Gold, Pearl, and Spices. The greatest part whereof, he like a Generous Captain distri­buted amongst his Souldiers, the better to Incourage them in another Difficulty; and counting his own Loss, he found but one of his men Killed, and three Wounded; so that reckoning the many Slain and Wounded in that other Gally that went off, this will ap­pear to be as strange a Victory as perhaps any Story makes mention of.

The greatest part of that Night was spent in unloading the Gally, by taking out the Choi­cest Goods, and Stowing them in their own Frigat; so that by the next morning they had little to do but to fit their Vessel the best they could for the remainder of their Voyage; which began now to shorten. They had a reserve on Board for such Accidents, and in little time had fitted on new Shrouds, mended their Sails, [Page 106] and repaired the Mast: So leaving the Gal­ly to the conduct of the few Slaves that remai­ned in her, They made with all the Sail they could to the Country of Greece, and in few weeks came in sight of the Isle of Chios; and makeing to the Harbour, they spent some dayes there; in disposeing of such Commodities as they thought good to part with; and fur­nishing them with such Necessaries as they stood in need of. Here likewise they met with some English Merchant, by whom they sent home word of their safe Arrival on that Coast, and of the strange Adventures performed by the famous St. Patrick by the way. Depar­ting from Chios, the Heroick Champion con­tinued his Resolution for the Continent of Grecia; intending by Land to Travel to the Mighty City build by the Great Constantine of England, of the which place, that Age talked Wonders; so in few days Arriving at—a Port of Dalmatia; he took a Lodging for him­self and his Page Mac, providing a convenient stable for Crapiero, of whom you have heard nothing a long time, the wooden Horse having been in his stead: but now we have brought our Knight on shore, we shall have occasion to mention him in our Travels. St. Patrick ha­ving Landed such principal things as he most esteemed; freely gave the Vessel, with the rest of the Cargo, to the Seamen; who, notwith­standing [Page 107] they met with so great a Booty at leaving their great Master; (whose bounty was as his Valour, above the rest of Mankind) yet could they not part with him without ma­ny Tears; protesting that their Captains pre­sence was more valued by them than the Riches of the Indies, nay, dearer than their own Lives: So great impression had his high Courage made, even in men of so low a make; notwithstanding, in Obedience to his Command, here they parted.

The ever-Famous Patrick having stayed some time in this Harbour, one Morning ve­ry early departed, as soon as the light gave l [...]ave; this he did, that the Rabble might not pass their Censures on the goodness of his Horse, the richness of his Armour; or the Gallantry of his Equipage. They Iournied several dayes through the pleasantest parts of that once happy Country, beside stately Vine­yards, Groves of Olives, and Oranges, Fragrant Mirtles: Silver Streams, and Fountains, once Consecrated to the Muses; at last passing through the pleasant Fields of Tempe in Thessalia, of which the Antient Greeks Sung so sweetly: The Native Beauty and Freshness of the place invited him to fit down under the shade of a Spicy Mirtle, whilst Mac fed the Horses at a distance; so­dainly he heard a lamentable cry in the ad­jacent [Page 108] Wood, which seemed to pierce the ve­ry Air; upon which calling for his Horse, he rid into the thicket with the greatest speed he could, till the noise brought him to a green plain

by a River, where a Monstrous Satyr with two heads was attempting the Chastity of a Beautious Young Lady; who having no com­pany but her maid, was diverting her self in the pleasant solitariness of that place: Our Knight presently made up to the Monster; who with his hideous Roaring seemed as if he called more of like sort to his Succour; but St. Patrick pressing upon him, the Satyr gave him a wound with his sharp Horns, be­twixt [Page 109] the Armour and the saddle bow; whereat out Knight giving him a mighty blow on the neck betwixt his two Heads, that parted his bo­dy into two equal halves; the Heads roared, and made a noise for some time after, but could not avoid falling before the Invincible Sword of St. Patrick. This being Finished, he returned to the Damsel, enquiring wherein he might further serve her: She told him he could do her no grea­ter Honour, than that night to lodg at her Fa­thers House, that she might shew him her Hero­ick Benefactor: so passing out of the Thicket, they came to a small Lodg, where a Chariot wayt­ed for the Lady, on whom our Champion wayted to the Basha's Palace; who vvas her Father, and about two Miles from that place. The Bashaw welcomed the Princly Stranger with all the Gallantry of the Turkish Court, & having heard from his Daughter of the Won­derful manner; and with what more than Hu­man Courage, he had saved her from the Cruel Satyr; The Bashaw being sent for to be at Constantinople in three dayes; besought our Hero to go with him; that he might shew unto the Sultan the most undoubted Che­valier in the World. This request of the Bashaw's was so agreeable to St. Patricks resolution, that without any previous Com­plement he accepted of it; and the next Morn­ing they departed to that Imperial City; and [Page 110] in [...] dayes arrived at the Seraglio, where the [...] [...]ented our Famous Champion to the Grand Seignior; who was much in Love with his Knightly Person, a great ad­mirer of his Armour; and especially of his Horse Crapiero, who by the Conduct of his Master won many Races, and Turnaments from the most Famous Chevaliers in the Ot­toman Court.

CHAP. VIII. How St. Patrick fought with the huge Tar­tarian Bembo, and overcame him.

OVR Champion had not rested long at the Grand Seigniors Court, when (the Fame of his former Atchievments being spread o­ver the World) A Monstrous Tartar ar­rived also at Constantionople, where he tar­ried certain dayes, bidding defiance to all the Knights about the Court, but none durst ad­venture to accept of his Challenge; wherefore hearing of a Stranger lately arrived, who was Famous for Chivalry, he sends his Lacquey early in the Morning to St. Patricks Lodging with a Challenge; who when he knocked at the door, Mack lets him in, and [Page 111] asks his business; he answered, that his bu­siness was with his Master, that he had a Letter for him, from the Great and Fa­mous Bembo, which required a present an­swer. Well sayes Mack, if you please to let me have the letter, and you shall have the an­swer anon; which he did. Mack carryes the Letter to his Master being in bed, who when he had opened it, he found the Extent of it to Thus:

St. Patrick no sooner had read the Chal­lenge, but he called for Pen, and Ink, and returned this Answer.

Our Champion no sooner dispatched the Messenger, but presently he makes his Applica­tion to the Grand Segnior (whom he found walking in his Garden with a great train of Courtiers) in these words; Most Renowned Monarch, The Report that Fame hath made of thy Greatness, and the magnificence of thy Court over all the World, hath invi­ted me hither, and now I lye under a Chal­lenge from a Stranger, who was so bold [Page 113] as to appoint the Lists before your Majesties Seraglio, the place of our Rancounter (with­out so much as asking your Majesties leave); but for my part, I have been more Civilly Educated; therefore (am I come now to prostrate my self at your Imperial Feet, ho­ping that for the Love you have to Chivalry, and your Royal Favors shewed to Strangers, and particularly to my self, we may be per­mitted to morrow morning to try our For­tune in the foresaid Lists. The Emperor ask­ed him what the Knight was that thought him­self able to Enter the Lists: Why may it please your Majesty, saith he, I know no more of him as yet, but only that he subscribeth himself Bembo, which I suppose is his Name; where­upon, the grand Segnior seemed extreamly concerned, telling him, that he greatly feared the Event: For saith he, the Bembo is ra­ther a Gyant than an ordinary man, and has been a long time in Greece, and Challenged many, but none of all our Knights durst an­swer him, except two; And what then, he plaid as a Cat would do with a Mouse, so great was the disparity in the strength: I am not in any respect affraid of him, answered he: If he should borrow the strength of a Rock, and the Courage of a Lyon, ile venture all, so that I may have your Majesties Consent as to the place appointed. With all my heart (answered [Page 114] the Emperour) and taking the Champion by the hand, I know saith he, thou art one whose Sword hath brought thy Fame from the ends of the Earth, and now when the Perecious Iewel (your Honour) should in the least be stained in our Court, I would choose to forgo infinite Treasures; yet I am not out of hopes, but will make the Knight feel the weight of thine. I doubt it not in the least (replyed the other) for I think every hour a day till I see him.

St. Patrick having obtained the Emperours Licence, with so great Expressions of Kindness besides; he presently Retired to his Lodging, gave orders to Mac to have a special care that Capriero should be well fed that night, for that he was to be put to Task next morning: Trusty Mac neglected nothing that could be for his Masters Interest and Advantage, rou­sed up Capriero with such things as he had provided for him, so that by his Prauncing and Bouncing, he had almost broke down the Sta­ble, none being able to Command him, but his Master alone.

No sooner began the Chirping Birds to Ce­lebrate the approaching shining of bright Au­rora, but our Champion began to make ready for the work of the day; and about eight a Clock, he presented himself in the Lists, clad in his Rich Glittering Armour upon his stately [Page 115] Prauncing Steed, expecting the Emperors coming, who about an hour after appeared from his Royal Pallace, with a Magnificent Train of Knights and Ladyes in great Splen­dor: the Emperor having sate upon a Throne erected for the purpose, and all the Princes and Ladyes being placed according to their Rank; They began with wonder to view the Stately Champion who was upon Horse-back within the Lists; greatly admiring his State­ly Body, his Amiable Features, and Grace­full Meen, wishing heartily that he might be Victor. As they were thus taken up with him, behold the fierce Tartar entred the List, with Innumerable Tokens of Incomparable Valour, which made many sear how it would go with the Comely Knight, (for so they called St. Patrick.) But the Pagan com­ing up close to him, said,

Now Knight, seeing the time for trying thy Valour with Deeds, is come, there is no reason to delay it, but in the nameing of the Judge; since one of us must of necessity remain for ever Breathless in the Field, therefore I would know whom you would nominate for Judge. That question is need­less in many respects (replyed the other) ne­vertheless I appoint the Emperor himself, who sits there for Judge. I had not thought thy Pride so great (said the Pagan) but [Page 116] since it is so, I am content that the Emperor be judg to them I intend to present thy Head before I leave the Lists.

The furious Champion thought it no time to trifle any longer with the Barbarous Savage, therefore they turned their Horses, swifter than two light Gallies carried with the force of their full wind blown Sailes, met in the end of their Courses, breaking their Launces to Shivers without moving in their Saddles. So drawing their glittering Swords, they ran like Lyons one upon another, laying on such blowes as that every one that lookt on, thought they were the last. Great abundance of Blood issued from both their Armour, but most from the Pagans; for though the strength of his Ar­mour defended his Body in some parts of it from Wounding, yet the Combat had not last­ed an hour, when he found himself so bruised and tyred, that he could hardly keep his Saddle, which made him in a raging Fury Assault St. Patrick, thrusting at him with a Point with such Force, that he laid him along upon his Saddle; this he seconded with a terrible blow upon his Breast, before he could reco­ver himself, which made him almost quite sens­less. With more ravening Fury turn'd n [...] the raging Tygre upon his Foe, than no [...] did our Champion; for casting his own Shield [...] [Page 117] his back, he discharged such a blow on his Adver­saries, that he clave it quite assunder; then with renewed Force, did they close one with another, with such Rage, that both Horses and Riders tumbled to the ground; yet had they scarcely touched the ground when both were on their feet again. The Pagan having recovered some Breath, with fresh strength he assaulted his Adversary, thrusting at him with such Force, that made him yeeld a little ground; yet not so much but that he could reach him with such a blow upon the Thigh, as made him tremble: Abundance of blood streaming from it; where­upon the Pagan abandoning all Fear, Reclosed with him, and with one stroak, cut away his Male-sleeve, drawing much blood after it: This greivous blow he thought to have seconded with such another as would end the Controversy with our Champions Life, but he found him­self much mistaken; for the other being sensi­ble that his Armour was much weakned, re­solved to make strength and courage his Ar­mor; therefore with his Sword he gave the Pa­gan such a blow upon the Shoulder, that he made the blood gush out in great measure. The fight is now as it were begun afresh, such Strength and Valor appeared on both sides, that the beholders were so possest with admiration, that they almost thought it a Dream; for the Combat continued four hours [Page 118] without any rest; therefore with mutual con­sent, they parted a little to breath: St. Pa­trick having sate down in a Chair that was set for him of the purpose, he began to recount with himself, with how little success he had fought all that while, his Enemy having as yet as good a prospect of the Victory as himself; therefore he presently starts up upon his Feet, assaulting his Enemy, who was ready for him, with such terrible fury, that both almost came to the Ground together; then they clasp­ed one another about the middle, and began to wrestle like two Gyants; but their strength was so equal, that none of them could get his Adversary thrown down, which made them again betake them to their Swords; then the Spectators observing St. Patrick to have the better, began to shout for Ioy. But the Impatient Pagan Cursing and Blaspheming against his Gods, as thinking that this dis­grace proceeded from them, run upon his E­nemy, and with both hands let sly at him such a blow, that lighting on the side of his Helme, he cut away all the Bucklers on the right side.

Now our Champion finding that all the parts of his Armor were thus rendred use­less to him, thought it was no time to linger; therefore with his Sword in both hands, he as­saulted his Enemy; who in the same man­ner [Page 119] received him, and with more horror then the furious Waves bent upon the Flinty Rock, they discharged their blows upon their Helmets, so that they both fell sensless to the ground, St. Patrick without his Helm, but the other with his Head, Skull and Brains broken, and scattered within his Helm. Some would have gone to them, but were not per­mitted by the Guard, till it were seen, what the effects of their Trance must be; but straight was the Victory proclaimed, for the Valiant St. Patrick recovering himself looked for his Ene­my; but finding to lye, went to him and un­lacing his Helm, saw that he was quite dead: Then addressing himself to the Emperour, and to the rest of the Iudges, demanded whether he had performed the Action to his Honour. One in the Emperors name, replyed thus, Valiant Knight, The great Souldan, with all the rest of the Judges and Spectators, commanded me to tell you, That your At­chievments this day, have been such, as shall be enough to perpetuate your memory in this place for ever. Nay, this was not all, for the Emperour himself, with all his Train came to the place to receive the Viccorious Knight; to him he spake thus: Valiant Knight, The force of your Armes hath this day purged our Court from the Aspersions, which otherwise it should undoubtedly lye under, [Page 120] by the daily Bravadoes of that insolent Knight; ask what thou pleasest in compen­sation of thy Valour, and it shall forthwith be granted. To whom our Campion re­plyed, Renowned Monarch, I reckon my self highly honoured, in that your Greatness con­descends to look upon this Service as done for the honour of Thy Court, to which I heartily dedicate it; wishing for no other re­ward, but that I may continue in thy Ma­jesties Favour. Whereupon the Emperour giving him his hand to kiss, raised him from the ground, and demanded who he was; to them, he answered, that he was born in the Western parts of the World, but for some time Travelled in Greece; and that hearing of the splendor of the Emperial Court at Constantinople, he would needs Satisfy him­self to see it; neither did he then repent his coming thither, for every thing did exactly answer his expectations. The Emperour would not suffer him to go back to his lodg­ing, but would deeds have him go along with himself to Court, where his wounds might be healed by his own Physitians, which was ve­ry Carefully and Dexterously performed, so that in few dayes he was perfectly recovered: Capriero also having been hurt in two places, was intrusted to the care of the Emperors [Page 121] Grooms, who so performed their part, that he was well before his Master.

CHAP. IX. How Alphebo, Bemboes Brother being to re­venge his Brothers Death, was vanquished by St. Patrick.

OVr Champion had not rested himself long after the Conflict with Bembo, when newes being gone to Tartary, that their Champion was killed at Constantinople, his Brother whose Name was Alphebo, being for Valour and Courage every way equal to Bembo himself, hastens with all speed to Con­stantinople, resolving either to revenge his Brothers death, or else never to see his Coun­try again. Being arrived, the first thing he did, was to enquire for his Name, whose For­tune it was to overcome the Mighty Bembo; which he no sooner learnt, but he presently sends him a most provoking Challenge in these Termes.

This Challenge came to our Champion, as he was walking with the Emperor in the Gar­den; which he no sooner rec [...]ived and read, but he let the Emperour see it: he having read it over, and observing the Mans rash [Page 123] and inconsiderate way of Writing; turn­ing about to St. Patrick, I perceive (saith he) that these two Knights are much of a temper, and I doubt the success shall prove the same to this, as it did to the last: I need not advise thee what to do, I leave it to thy self; and I question not, but thy Sword is sharp enough to vindicate thine Honour: What ever time and place thou shalt af­fix, care shall be taken that all things may be put in due order; and so adue.

The Emperour being gone to the Pallace, St. Patrick asked the Bearer of the Letter to tarry there a little, and he should have his answer presently, and so retired to a Summer House, there writ his answer thus,

Our Champion having dispatched the Mes­senger, he went to the Pallace, where he found the Emperour, giving the necessary orders for the next day; who desired that St. Patrick would be so free with him as to acquaint him of any thing that he might want that were ne­cessary for the Action: He replyed, that he want­ed nothing at present, only his Armour was much cut in the last Ingagement; whereupon the Emperour went presently to his Armory, and brought in his own hand, a stand of most ex­cellent Armour, with which he presented St. Patrick, desiring him to try how it would fit him; which presently he did, and found it lay as well to his Body, as if it had been made for him; after that the Emperour had discoursed a while with him upon the next dayes adven­ture, he retired to his Chamber; where cal­ling for Mac, he gave him strict orders, that he should look well to Crapriero, and should [Page 125] have his Saddle, and other things in good or­der before he went to rest, which Mac accor­dingly did. Thus our Champion passed over this wearisom night, long looking for the morning, which no sooner began to appear, but he presently arose from his Bed, and began to put every thing in its own place; having with all speed buckled on his Armour, when he found the appointed time approach, he came from his Chamber, where in the great Hall the Emperour met him, and complemented him at a high rate; and accompanying him to the Gate, he heartily wished him good success; and so left him to call the Princes and Ladyes of the Court together, that they might follow.

Our Champion entred the Lists by the way from the Pallace; where he no sooner appeared, but all the beholders began to wonder, who it should be, his Change of Armour making them no wise suspect, that he was the Champion that had made himself so famous in that place not long before. The Armour which he wore that day, was of a bright yellow colour, full of half Moons, overcast with a russet Coat. The Emperour and the Court had scarce ta­ken their Seats when at the other end of the Lists entred the Tartarian, mounted upon a strong and mighty Courser: his Warlike Ha­bit was of a sad Red Colour, with green Bars and golden Gravings; at his Saddle Pummel [Page 126] hung a mighty Mace of Steel; with all which he appeared mighty Terrible to all, except him with whom he had to do.

Without any other Ceremony, these two Warlike Champions, like two Flashes of Lightning, ran at one another; at the first Rancounter they peirced their Sheilds, the Breast-Plate of each staying his Adversaries Fury, from whence the shivers of the broken Launces mounted into the middle Region of the Air; then with the raging Wrath which possessed both of them alike, they returned up­on each other, and with the strength of migh­ty Arms discharging such furious Blowes one upon the other, that all the Beholders expected the Conflict would not last long; but they were much mistaken; the furious Pagan laid on so fiercely with his Mace, that St. Patrick lost his Crest, and had his Head sore bruised; but feeling the smart of the blows, and seeing his own blood, he with redoubled strength let such sly at the Pagan, that he had almost tumbled him from his Saddle; yet it so fell out, that he only fell forward upon his Hor­ses neck, shedding a great deal of blood through his nose and eyes.

Thus they continued for the space of five hours in such a bloody conflict as perhaps the World did never see the like: At last both of them begining to be weary, and vex­ed [Page 127] that his adversary should stand so long be­fore him, with the utmost of their force, they discharged their fury in such sort, that they struck each other from their Horses, to the astonishment of all the beholders. The Pagan loosed his Mace in the fall, which was a great loss to him, they scarcely touched the ground, when quicker than could be Ima­gin'd they were both upon their Feet a­gain; but before the Pagan could well recover his feet, our Champion gave such a stroak with his Sword upon the top of his Shield, that he cut away a piece of it, with all the top of his Helm; an that side, this terrible blow made him stagger, and look as if he were ready to sink down upon the place; St. Patrick finding now that his Adversary was in such a maze, he seconded this blow with another upon his Thigh, cutting it to the bone. This awakned the Pagan, as it were out of a Dream, and seeing his own blood colouring the Grass all-about him, it put him into such a Lyon-like fury, that like a devouring Bear he ran upon his Enemy, who in the same manner received him. Thus, as it were, the Battle is began afresh, with force and fury upon both sides; the noise of their Swords, was heard all over the Emperours Palaces, though Two hundred and fifty Paces distant from it. The Pagan finding that his adver­sary [Page 128] could handle his Sword with more dex­terity than himself could do; and being now abundantly sensible of the want of his trusty Mace, resolved upon the first opportunity to get within him; which the other perceiving, he asked him if he thought it might be any ad­vantage to him to try his strength in Wrestling; if it were, he told him that he was content to throw away his Sword, and to try him in any manner, or upon any terms he pleased; where­upon they both agreed; but withal, they were first to take a little breath.

Having both of them sat down at a little distance one from the other, they began each of them to be more sensible of his Wounds; the Pagan had received nine very deep wounds, one of which was upon his thigh, which did extremely trouble him, for it bled all the while he sat: St. Patrick hath four all about the Buckling of his Armour, two of which were very deep; his body also was very ill bruis­ed with the Pagans Mace, which did him much hurt.

However, bethinking with himself that for all that was done, the victory was yet uncer­tain, he starts up upon his Feet with as much nimbleness, as if he had not fought a stroak that day: He addresseth himself to the Pagan thus, Sir Knight (saith he) We have kept the Emperour and his, all this day [Page 129] looking to no purpose, so little is done by us on either side; that they have no reason to be satisfied; come therefore, since thou hast thrown away thy Sword, and made it thy choice to determine the quarrel by your Strength, let us trifle away our time no longer. The Pagan seemed very ready, and with great Courage advanced towards him; and cast his mighty Arms about him: Here began a terrible Conflict, the Pagan raised our Champion from the Ground, and had al­most thrown him upon his Back. He with all his Power held him fast, and in the mean time, with a Trip, got hold of him fast by the mindle, by which he was in equal termes with him: Thus they tossed one another a­bout like two Lyons, for a long space, till at last, St. Patrick, in a Rage, swinging the Pagan about, threw him well nigh six paces from him; with the force of which, he him­self fell to the ground; but both were up a­gain with such Nimbleness, that all the be­holders were Astonished; then with renew­ed force they clapsed each other about the mid­dle, which was the beginning of the last Scene of this Tragedy, and was as Couragiously managed as any of the former; both of them knowing that it could not hold out much longer. The Pagan taking his advantage, attempted to throw his Adversary backward: But the [Page 130] other, being as nimble as he was strong, not only kept his feet, but also with Admira­ble Force lifted up the Pagan from the ground, and threw him down again with such a noise, as made the ground shake; yet after much striving, he got up again. Now the light of Phaebus being by this time drencht within the caverns of the Western Ocean, and night ha­ving covered them with her dark vail; the two Champions cryed out for lights: Where­upon the Emperor caused above a thousand bright Torches to be lighted; but the Warriers were both of them so overcome with this long and tedious Conflict, that if Honour had not been so much concerned, which made both of them act above their strength, they could not have subsisted so long, especially the Pagan, who was wearyed with the Combat, and so weakned with the loss of his Blood, that for every step he made, with his Blood he left it printed on the Grass: However, finding that by his Sword he was not like to over­come his Adversary, and being still resolved either to conquer him, or dye in the place, he to his fatal loss, joyned with him again, and observing a Dagger by St. Patricks side, he snatched it from him, and thought to have run him through the left shoulder with it, but the Valiant St. Patrick disdaining thus to be wound­ed with his own Weapon, takes hold of the [Page 131] Pagan by the wrist, forcing the Dagger out of his hand, and gives him such a stab with it, in the Breast, that he fell upon his back. Whereupon our Champion presently gets a­bove him, and with the Dagger in his hand, bespoke him thus: Now Knight, know as­suredly, that your Life is in my hand; you may remember your Challenge, and that the contents of it were, that in the same place, where I killed your Brother, you should in the same manner kill me; yet now you may see your folly, in venting your self at such a rate against a man whose strength you knew not; till your own sad experience gave you a Proof of it: But for my part, I have learned moderately to manage my Conquest; therefore, here I put it in thy Choice, either to dye, or live; if thou'lt ac­cept of thy Life, as a complement from my hand, thou shalt have it, provided only, that thou acknowledg thy self Overcome. At this motion, the Pagan began to Curse, and Blaspheme; Cursing his Gods that had thus left him in his Extremity. St. Patrick, asked him the second time, if he would ac­cept of his Terms, which he disdainfully re­fused: Whereupon, with the Dagger which was ready in his hand, he cut off his head, and held it out to the people. No sooner they espyed it, but they gave such a shout, as made [Page 132] all the Rocks resound: The Emperor imme­diately gave orders to his Physitians to accom­pany our Champion to the Palace: thither he was carryed in great Triumph, with sound of Trumpet, and other Warlike Instruments; persons of all Ranks and Qualities, expres­sing their kindness to him by all possible tokens of Love and Affection.

CHAP. X. St. Patrick sets out from Constantinople, to­wards his one Country; he comes to the King of Sicilies Court, and of his Gal­lant behaviour there.

OVR renowned Champion, having pur­chased immortal Trophies of Fame all the World over; considering with himself, how long he had been absent from his Na­tive Country, and from enjoying the comfor­table Society, and Fellowship of his dearest Friends and Relations, (who by length of time, as also considering the great hazards to which he was daily exposed; began to despair, of ever seeing him again, resolves now to return home, and pass the rest of his dayes more obscurely. Therefore when he was per­fectly cured of the wounds which he had re­ceived [Page 133] in the last Rancounter with the Tartar He resolved to take hold of the first opportu­nity for communicating his purpose to the Emperor: Occasion soon after offers it self; for the Emperor being at his mornings walk in his Arbour, St. Patrick addresseth himself to him thus.

Illustrious Monarch, I make bold to in­terrupt your Majesty from your greater thoughts, by presenting my mean request to you: Sir, I am a Man, a great part of whose dayes have been spent in deeds of Armes, and now I am resolved by your Imperial leave, to return home to my Na­tive Country, there to give my self to the Contemplation of Supernatural things; This therefore is my request, that it may please your Majesty to give me leave to depart your Court with those Marks of Honour, that u­sually are conferred upon such as have brought themselves under no Stigma of re­proach under your service; higher I pre­tend not, and lower I presume, your Ma­jesty will not place me. The Emperor not dreaming that St. Patrick would ever leave his Court, was hugely surprised, when he heard him thus talk of his speedy resolution; and after having for half an hour stood amazed as if he knew not what to say, at length he breaks out in a passionate manner. What, [Page 134] saith he, You whom of all the Knights in the world I most esteem, and by whom of all the Knights that ever appeared at my Court, I thought my self most Honoured, Wilt thou now after your having purchased such a vast Stock of Fame; nay which is more, gain'd my Affections in such a measure? Wilt thou I say, after all this, leave us thus obscurely? I hope you will not, therefore I desire you may consider better before you re­solve. If you want any thing that can give you satisfaction which my Dominions can afford, let me know it, and doubt not but it shall be granted. St. Patrick replyed, that nothing moved him to leave his Maje­sties Court, but his longing to see his Na­tive Country; and that if he were to pass his time as he had formerly done, no Monarch should command him more than he.

The Emperor finding that no intreaties could prevail with our Champion to tarry a­ny longer with him, did at length (though much against his heart) Condescend to let him go, causing also rich Presents to be pro­vided for him: but St. Patrick humbly refus­ed them all; telling the Emperor, that those costly things were sitter for Ladies, than for such as he was.

Thus after a great many Ceremonies and Complements past on both sides, he depart­ed [Page 135] from Constantinople, with no other reti­nue but trusty Mack, and Capriero, directing his course towards Sicily; being come to the Mauritaman Coast, he hyred a small Ves­sel to transport him to Sicily, which no sooner was under Sail, but the Winde and the Element began a strife, as it were which of them should be most serviceable to him; so that in a shor­ter time than one can imagine, he came to a Harbour in a remote part of the Country. Having landed, and walked a while by the Sea side, there came to him an Old Reve­rend Lady all disordered with grief, having her Vail in her hand, and Hair hanging about her shoulders, our Champion upon her approach stood still, expecting that she would speak to him, which she her self intended; but when she went about it, such floods of tears rose in her Eyes, that she could not utter one word: whereupon he breaks off to her thus: I per­ceive Lady, that you are one whose Trou­bles are great, so much is expressed by your looks; but if they be not past remedy, be pleased to acquaint me with it, and I shall indeavour to see you set to rights. The Old Gentlewoman, when she heard such words from so Gallant-like a Person, began to re­vive, and to gather some hopes, that he might be the man that should ease not only her, but all Sicilie of their grief; whereupon she [Page 136] abruptly break her silence thus. Valiant Knight, who knows but that by the Gods, thou art or­dained to make Sicilie happy; and sent hi­ther at this time for that end; therefore I beseech you make haste to the place ap­pointed, or I fear you may come too late. Our Knight began to be a little astonished at the Ladyes relation, and therefore desired her in short to be more plain in it. That I will do (quoth she) in as plain and short terms as I can. Know then Heroick Champion, that the fair Honoria, the King of Sicilies on­ly Daughter, is this day (in all probability) to fall into the hands of a Monster: The manner thus; There liveth in a Forrest not far from the Kings Pallace, a huge creature shap'd like a man; but no doubt the pro­duct of some monsterous copulation; for though he seems to have somthing of the acti­ons of a man, yet his terrible bigness, and most fierce actions makes many doubt what he is. This Gyant or Monster having upon a day, unfortunately seen the Beautiful Honoria as she passed in her Chariot through the wood, came within a few dayes, and very imperi­ously demanded her of her father: The King viewing his features, and considering his deformity, disdainfully refused him; whereupon immediately he departed, threat­ning to make her a dear Honoria to Sici­ly; [Page 137] and accordingly ever since he has made it his work to burn and destroy the Coun­try where ever he comes, not sparing ei­ther Age or Sex; none dares oppose, for his strength is so terrible that men seems but like Rats in his Clutches. The King finding the great loss the Country sustained by his cruelty, sent him an Herald, acquaint­ing him, that if he did not (against this day) find one who should fight him▪ and overcome him, he should have his daughter. Now the day is come, and none hath as yet appeared at Court that offers battle to the Monster; therefore, now Knight, think, what you have to do; If you will venture for Honour, do; if not, forbear.

This full and perfect account so filled our Champion with an itching to be at it, that he could scarce contain himself; so he asked the Lady which way he should steer his course to find out the place of the Battell; she told him, that if he should ride to the right hand untill he came to a little Brook, that Brook would lead him to the very place, where he should see the Giants Tent ready pitched; but that she was afraid there should be none else there but himself. Without any more, S. Patrick sets his Spurs to his Horse, commanding Mack to observe the Ladies direction, and fol­low him; and in the space of an hour he [Page 138] came within sight of the Tent, which was of a prodigious bigness: he alighted without the field, and tyed Capriero to a Bush; then he began to advance towards the Tent. But as he was tying his horse to the Bush, one of the Kings servants who had been sent out as a private spye, sees him at a distance; who taking notice of his extraordinary appearance, ran back in all hast, and told the King of it; whereupon the King immediately Summons the whole Court together, and went out all in their Chariots towards the place.

St. Patrick having made no great hast to­wards the Tent, the King was within sight of the Field before the Gyant appeared; for St. Patrick as soon as he came near the Tent, made a sign upon the roof of it with his Launce for the Gyant to come out; but the Gyant pretending he was not ready, gave the King time to enter the field before he appeared: also people of all sorts having heard that a strange Champion was arrived, came to see the Event. The Gyant at length comes out of his Tent, with eyes full of Terror, having in his hand an Iron Mace of such bigness, that no ordinary man could carry a piece of Wood of such a size: He no sooner saw his Antagonist, but he struck at him with such a Force, that (he ha­ving nimbly leapt aside) it made the whole Field to shake: St. Patrick, before the Gyant could [Page 139] recover his Mace, runs his Launce through his shoulder Bone; the Monster seeing his own Blood, became as mad as any Devil in Hell; Whereupon lifting up his fearful Instrument, let such a Blow at the other, as might be e­nough to cleave a Rock; but St. Patrick a­voided it likewise; which made the Gyant in a rage, throw away his Mace, and draw his Terrible Sword; which when it appeared out of the Sheath, looked a great deal bigger than the Oar of a Schuller; with it he runs upon his Enemy with all his Force, who received him in the like manner: Thus the Conflist be­gins a fresh; the Gyant had strength, but not art to manage his Sword. St. Patrick, though he was short of the Gyant in Strength, yet his singular dexterity in handling the Sword, made him have the Advantage of his Adver­sary in that point, which he did not fail to im­prove to the Life; for they had not Fought a­bove half an hour, when the Gyant had five deep Wounds in his Body; which did very much abate his Strength; and put him in such Fury, that his Sword proving as un­serviceable to him, as his Mace did; threw it away also, and runs in upon his Antagonist, hoping to make his clutches do that which his Weapons could not do: But St. Patrick not willing to commit himself into his hands, whom he believed to exceed him so much in strength, [Page 140] holds the point of his Sword to him, to keep him off him; but he rushing forward with all his force, not regarding any hazard, run him­self directly upon the Sword, and made it go directly through his Body. When he had thus received his Fatal Wound, he scrieched out in so terrible a manner, that he made both Hea­ven and Earth resound; tumbling down up­on the ground like a Rock. The Spectators they shout aloud for joy, especially the King; for the joy he conceived in having his Coun­try freed from such a terrible Enemy, and Ho­noria for being quit of so unpleasant a Lover. The Victory being absolutely obtained, the King himself came towards St. Patrick, where he was resting his wearied Body, by the Car­cass of the Gyant, and invites him home with him, which the other willingly consented to.

Being conveyed by some Knights to a most sumptuous Apartment in the Palace, he dis­burdened himself of his Armour, which the Grand Seignior presented to him, which by this last Engagement, was so shattered to pieces, that it was now quite useless for a­ny further service: His Head-Piece was beat together like an old Pewter-Platter, by the Gyants terrible Mace; so that if the Head it self, had not been of more than ordinary hardness, it had gone ill with him; as for his Body-Armour, though it was one of the [Page 141] Best, that the eyes of man ever did behold, the morning before the Conflict; yet, so mi­serably was it cut, that one could scarce see an inch of it whole from head to foot; which made the Rnights who stood by, exceedingly please themselves, in passing their Iudgment upon it in merriment. Some asking our Champion, What he would sell his bundle of old Rags for? Another alledged, that he doubted, whether any Knight in Sicily (for as well as they were acquainted with Armour) if this bundle were presented to them, as it lay, could tell what it was. A third said, Our Champion would do well to take e­special notice of every piece, as he laid it by, that he might know how to put it in its own place, when he had use for his Armour: for I will assure you (saith he) Sir Knight, you'le need timely Advertisement to make ready; for if the Enemy should assault us, your Tack­ling is a little out of Order. Well, well, Gentlemen, answered he, I see you are re­solved to be merry, and rather than you should want a fit Subject, my distressed Armour must be laid hold on, which I very well allow of; but I must tell you, the cutting of it was no matter of Laughter to me, for I must confess, I was never in my Life so hardly Engaged, as I was with this Gyant: I knew his strength did by many Degrees exceed; [Page 142] mine; and besides, I was much out of order, with my long and tedious Iourney from Con­stantinople, which did not a little impair both my strength and nimbleness; and I must further confess, that if he had had the way of managing his strength with such Knightly Dexterity as was becoming, I did look upon him to have been too hard for any Knight that beareth Armour, under the Sun; how­ever, when I found where his Strength lay, I began to know how to deal with him, and accordingly I managed my business, so as all things happened according to my expectation; Nay, replyed one of the Knights, whether things fell out according to your expectation or not, I know not; but this I must say, (though I love not to Flatter any one to his face) that I did never in my Life see so seemingly unequal a match, have such an un­expected Issue: For when you both appeared in the Field together, me thought I could make no sitter Comparison betwixt, than of a Man and a Mountain, so disproportioned were Statures one to the other; I lookt upon your Adversary fitter to overturn Rocks, than to fight with Men; neither do I believe that I was mistaken of his Strength, for he seem­ed to make no more of the huge Mace he had in his Paw, than if it were no heavier than a rush: yet, saith he, (casting his Eye upon the [Page 143] Fineness of St. Patricks Armour, which lay upon the Table) I think truly the loss you have sustained in your Armour, might be a sufficient ground, of a new Challenge, if the Monster had survived. Come, come, answe­red he, that loss is no loss at all, if rightly considered; for I am certain his loss is great­er that did it; nor do I in the least doubt but he was sufficiently sensible of it before his soul and his body parted; for one might read in his very looks, that he repented his inter­prise, and that if it were to do again, he would advise before he ventured. It is true, reply­ed another of the Knights, he was a prodi­geous Fellow to look on; but I doubt, that if we be asked by Strangers, (as undoubtedly we shall) concerning his exact dimentions, both as to his length and breadth, whether any of us can satisfie them. Indeed answered another, I cannot; Nor I, saith the third. Come, saith the fourth, that is a thing easie; for this Valiant Champion has laid him at his full length in yonder Field, (point­ing out at the window to the Field where he lay); so that now one may safely measure him by inches from top to toe: Let any too of us go then, and for our own and others satisfaction, bring his exact dimentions: To which they all agreed, and so two of them went; but as they were going out at the door, [Page 144] one of the rest calls merrily after them. Gentlemen, saith he, I hope you know your business, and what you are going about. One of the Knights going out at door, turn­ed about, and asked him, What made him ques­tion that? why, sayes he, I would have you forget none of your Necessaries for your work; for you know Mathematicians, when they who take the Dimensions of a Hill or Mountaine, they make use of the Quadrant, without which they cannot assure themselves whether they have done their business as they ought, or not. St. Patrick smiling at the Iest, said: Pray Gen­tlemen go about your work, for we have sport enough already, from the fellows Carrion, and my Armour; so that you see, how one mans rashness may be a Subject of Divertisement to many: The two Knights went accordingly about their Business, with a measuring Linet; but their Line proving too short upon Tryal, they were for­ced▪ to send for more, and themselves to wait by the Carcass, until it was brought them; then they went a second time to Work, and in the first place they measured his full length, which they found to have been Se­ven yards, three quarters, and Seven inches; then they measured the circumference of his Body about the middle; but this they found very difficult, because of the weight of his Trunk; yet by the help of some that looked [Page 145] on, they raised the Body so far from the ground, as to get the Line put under him, and bringing it about, they found his Cir­cumference to be five yards and an half; last of all, they measured the Length betwixt his Eyes, which appeared to have been Twenty Inches full: Thus having satisfyed their own Curiosity in viewing, and measuring of him, they returned to the Palace.

They were no sooner gone from the Car­cass, but Six men in Armour, came from the adjacent Wood, and putting the Body up­on a Huge Engine, somewhat resembling a Hearse, drawn by Six Horses, and as it seemed, made of purpose for that end; they with a great deal of seeming grief, conveyed it to the wood; where, as soon as it entered, there begun such a fearful crying and bellowing of men and women together, that St. Patrick, who all the while looked out at his Chamber-window, said, Merrily. I wish he has not been my Country man, for these lamentable Ob­sequies, resembling our Irish Women, makes me deeply suspect it.

The two Knights, being come back again, as they were giving an account of the mat­ter, the King enters the room, who seeing two of the Knights standing, one at one end of the room, the other, at the other, having a Line extended betwixt them, each of them [Page 146] holding it by the end; asked them what it meant to them? they replyed: May it please your Majesty, this is the exact Length of the Gyant, which fell by the hands of this Va­liant Knight (pointing to St. Patrick): The King, though he did see the Gyant fall, yet was he Astonished when he saw his Length, by the Line; nor could he hardly be perswa­ded to believe it, untill they shewed him his Thickness also; whence he concluded, that the Prodigious Bulk of his Body, had made him mistake, as to his Length; but when he saw the space betwixt his Eyes, he could by no means be perswaded to believe it, till with many Asseverations the two Knights who mea­sured him, averred it: The King hav [...]ng heard and seen all that passed, walked five or six times about the room, in a profound silence, with his eyes fixed upon the ground: At last he breaks out with great Passion, and said, (directing his words to St. Patrick) O Knight, without reproach, thou Mirrour of Chival­ry, had the Fates Honoured Sicily with thy Birth, I would look upon thee, as one of the Preciousest Jewels in my Regal Diadem; but however, it was otherwise ordered by the uncontroulable Powers, yet I purpose, that if Honour or Preferment, the Riches and Glory of Sicily, may be of any weight with you, that henceforth thou shalt live [Page 147] with me, and partake of my Fortune: I doubt not, but that you had Offers of this Nature from other Princes, before you came hither, yet, this does no ways discourage me from inviting you, nor put me out of hopes, but that you will comply with my desire; if there were nothing else to move you to it, but the examples of the many Valiant Champions, Famous over all the World, who after they had visited the most Famous Courts in the World, yet were con­tent at last, to take up their residence with my predecessors at this Court. And for you Knight, if you will stay, here I pass my Royal Promise before these Gentlemen, that you shall have as much Honour and Respect, as any Knight that ever was in Sicily.

St. Patrick was mightily surprised at this, fearing that if he should persist in his former resolution of coming home to his own Coun­try, as he intended to do, at any rate, he should lose the Kings Favour, which he had so lately procured; therefore he resolved to ex­press his mind, as Courteously as was possi­ble, so as not to give the King any ground to hope that he should tarry; so observing that the King by his stedfast looking in his Face, expected a present answer, he addressed him­self to him in these terms.

Most Mighty King, I must acknowledge [Page 148] that there is more than words required in a man of my Character, to retaliate so great and signal Honours, as your Majesty hath ten­dered to me, ever since I had the happiness to see your face; so that now I am forced to acknowledg my self unhappy in that I want opportunity to express the same. As to what your Majesty requires of me; I heartily wish it were in my Power to comply with your Demand, but it is now past help; for I have put my self under an inevitable necessity, of begging your Majesties Pardon in that Point. I have been for many years absent from my Native Country, and have put on a resolution, and put my self under a pro­mise to return with the first occasion; so that now my hands are tyed up, that I cannot obey your Majesties Demand in this point, for which I am heartily sorry.

The King finding him thus peremptory, resolved to express a great deal of Grief, but no displeasure at him; he told him, since it was so, he expected that he would not be sud­den in his departure: to which the other con­sented, and tarryed several days; but at last took leave of the King, and all his Court, and was dismissed with all the expressions of Honour imaginable. But these Knights, who upon the Death of the Gyant, had made acquain­tance with him, resolved to convey him a [Page] part of his way, which accordingly they did. Their way from the Royal City, lay through the Wood, where the Gyant resided; and from thence he advanced to the Fatal Conflict with our Champion. The Wood, although fre­quently passed through in former times, yet for a great while before this, it became a per­fect Wilderness, by reason of the Savage Creatures possessing it, which made people a­fraid to come nigh it; the common Road also was so overgrown with Bushes and Shrubs, that there was hardly any appearance of it to be seen: yet notwithstanding, St. Patrick being desirous to see his late Antagonist's Habitation, and to know them, he left to suc­ceed him, if they were disposed to revenge his Quarrel; the other Knights also willing to satisfy their Curiosity, and that they might brag afterwards that they were among the first that entered the desolate Forrest, after the Death of the Monster; all conclude V­nanimously to take their way through the Wood, resolving they should make some search, as they passed along the Monsters Mannor.

Thus they entered the Wood, about Ten of the Clock in the Forenoon, having left all the Servants without the Wood, command­ing them to return home; only St. Patrick, because he was not to return again that way, took Mack along with him. They were not [Page] half an hour in the Wood, when they began to question where they were; the Knights protested, that though they have many times passed through, yet now they knew not where they were; and that which bewilders me most (says one of them) is, that I see a Moun­tain yonder, over against me, which so far as I can remember, was not to be seen here in former times; to which all the rest of the Sicilian Knights agreed, saying, That unquestionably, this must be some extraordi­nary Thing: Whereupon, they all Rode to­wards it, to see it; But when they drew near it, they could discern it was an House built with [...], Stone, and Wood, and such Materials as the Place could afford, to a prodigious Bigness: when they came to the door, they began to advise, whether it was safe to go in: But St. Patrick was so bent for it, that he made them pres [...]ntly co [...]nt: So they entered, every man having his Sword drawn, expecting to meet with some rugged fellows; but they were much mistaken, for they found none there, except an Old Man of about an Hundred years of Age, who sate by the Fire very Pensive; to him St. Patrick Addressed himself, in these terms. How now Old Man, What is become of the rest of your Company? to him the Old man answers ve­ry surly, You may go look; Nay, says the [Page 151] other, I am not come hither to offend you; yet I think, I may safely ask you this ques­tion, which is commonly the first that is asked of a Solitary man, by such as Visit him: Then the Old man became a little more calm, and told them how that his Son was Killed some days ago in a Duel, hard by the King of Sicilies House, and now his other Sons, and the rest of his Friends were gone to bury him; but he would not tell them where, nor were they very curious to enquire: so ha­ving viewed the House, both within and with­out, the Old man directed them out of the Wood, where they heartily, and sorrowfully did bid adieu to each other.

Our Champion having for many years raised Piramids to his memory, both here, and in all the parts of Greece: Where he fought such Battels, and did such Wonder­ful Exploits; that his Name began to out-sound that of his own Trojan Hector. At length he embraced a firm resolution to re­tire into his own Native Country; which he did, and having long confined himself to a re­tired Life, at length gave up his great Soul to the Conqueror of all Champions, Death.