SOME Persons who esteem LOVE as the Sweetest and most tender of all other Passions, have imagin'd it to be more especially appropriated to the Female Sex: But whoever will take the pains to look back into the ancient Re­cords, may be soon convinc'd that it has extended its Conquests, not only over the Fair Sex, but also over the greatest Men in all Ages; and that even the most Fa­mous Warriours amidst their dangerous En­terprises, have too often felt its effects, and [Page 2] been forc'd to submit to its Irresistible Pow­er. Let us but look backwards upon those great Heroes, Alexander, Caesar and Pompey; cou'd the greatness of their Designs ever make 'em abandon their amourous Intrigues? They scarce ever drew their Swords, but with an intent to please their Mistresses, and to make them to be sharers in their most glori­ous Victories. Has not Love been too often the occasion of Bloody Wars, and of the Destruction of whole Countries? Has it not undermin'd and over-thrown the Strongest Towers? Why then shou'd it be denied that it Sympathises in a most extraordinary man­ner with Mars the God of War. I am apt to believe it to be an unquestionable Truth, that all Mankind feel the effects of Cupid's Ar­rows; who does not spare a Throne, making even Scepters and Crowns submit to his Empire. When the Glory of Martial Exploits and a well proportion'd Body meet in one Person, they are such Powerful, or rather irresistible Charms to a tender Heart, that nothing is able to hold out against 'em. The Histories of all Ages are full of such in­stances to convince us, that even the most Illustrious Heroes in former Ages, as well as ours, have been carried beyond their Bounds by this Passion, even to that degree, that by the Inchantment of their Mistreses charms, they often become forgetful of their [Page 3] Duty, having Sacrifis'd to their so much a­dor'd Deities all their Glory and Renown, which with a Thousand hazards and the loss of their Blood, they had before accquir'd, under Mars's Standard. There are never theless not wanting Examples of others, who having made it their chief aim to fight, and to Sacrifice their Lives for their Prince, have been able at least for some time to des­pise and withstand the Force of Love.

The Marshal de Boufflers, whose amourous Adventures I am about to relate, is of this number: For tho' he had always a strong Inclination to Pleasure, and especially to such Love-intrigues as are usual among Gentlemen, he has notwithstanding all this, always kept such a ballance between Love and Glory, that the first of these two Pas­sions, tho' otherwise the most powerful, has ne­ver been able to fully his Martial Glory; our General having ever shew'd himself as much a Soldier as a Gallant, as will more plainly appear from the following Relation.

Love leads Mankind, even from their Youth thro' so many capricious Adventures, that it is always impossible to avoid its in­chanting snares: Let us but consider that we are all made of the same Clay, of which our fore-Father, Adam was created, who was not strong enough to resist the entice­ments of a Woman made either for his De­struction, [Page 4] or pathaps for his comfort, why then shou'd we expect to excel him in this particu­lar? But to return to our History, Monsieur de Boufflers had in his younger Years altogether addicted himself to Hunting, and Amourous divertisements, the latter being never theless for the most part predominant; when after some time thus spent in amourous Delights, one of his Friends advis'd him to enter into the King's Service. He having for some time entertain'd this noble Design, his Mind was wholly em­poly'd in finding out means how to make a Figure in the Court of France, which cou'd not be done without very great expence: The Marshal, who was born a Gentleman in the Province of Picardie, (where Gold is a pretty scarce Commodity) was put to a great non plus as to this Affair; when one Day walking all alone in his Garden, and musing upon his present Circumstances, the same Friend very seasonably surpris'd him; and by offering him his Purse and all his Cre­dit, freed him from his present trouble; ad­ding withal, that by this means he might purchase the Royal Regiment of Dragoons, which was then to be sold by the King's Or­der. The Marshal receiv'd the Courtesy of his Kinsman with a great deal of Joy and thankfulness, and having by his assistance compleated his Design, he saw himself in a little while after at the Head of a Regiment, [Page 5] which carries along with it Terrour and Ad­miration, whereever it comes. The poor Protestants of France have been sufficiently sensible of it to their cost: But let us leave this doleful Subject, and return to Monsieur Boufflers, whom for the Reader's Diversion I will draw to the Life, before I proceed: To speak without vanity there is scarce any one that is better able to performe it than my self, having had the Honour to know him, and to have been his Companion even from his Infancy, and having follow'd him in all his Martial Exploits, as well as Love-Intri­gues. If any fault is to be found in the Pi­cture, which I am about to draw, those that espie it, I hope, will rather attribute it to the defect of my Pencil and Colours, than to any other imperfection. But let us see him as naturally drawn as can be, without any Disguise. Our General, who was formerly a Marquess of the Marquisate of Boufflers, is a Person of a mean Stature, but very well set, strong and vigourous in all his Actions, even to excess at certain times. His Eyes are black, sprightly and full of Fire, his looks fierce and somewhat stern among Men; but very sweet and charming, when he ly's pro­strate at the Feet of a beautiful Woman; where I have seen him making his Court­ship a thousand times, with all the Sweet­ness imaginable. He has something, I know [Page 6] not what extraordinary in his Countenance and Behaviour, which begets him Respect and Veneration. His Face is smooth, of an oval Figure, his Fore-head high, and his whole Physiognomy the best compos'd that ever I saw; these are the advantages which bounteous Nature has bestow'd upon him, let us observe those for which he is beholding to his Sword, and whereby he has rais'd him­self to the greatest Preferments in France. During his abode in Paris, he knew so well by what means to insinuate himself into the favour of the chief Generals, who at that time commanded the Kings Armies, that they receiv'd him among the number of their most intimate Friends; On the other hand, he made his Court with so much Address to those Ladies who were then most belov'd by that Monarch, that by their favour he easily obtain'd whatever he wish'd for at Court; among the rest he paid the most respect and most assiduous Visits, to the two Marchion­esses of Montespan and Maintenon, but the la­ter, who at that time began to have the most Soveraign Ascendant over the King, did recommend him so effectually, and in terms so obliging to that Prince, that there­by he made his Fortune with the King. The Prince of Conde, first Prince of the Blood, and the Marshal Schomberg, were not behind hand in advancing his Fortune, [Page 7] those two great Warriours having procur'd him the Advantage of being employ'd in the next Campaigne, which was in the Year 1678, where he signalis'd himself by his Valour at the Siege of Puicerda, which is one of the best Cities in Catalonia, situated in a fair Plain, on the River Segre. The Mar­shal and Duke de Navaille who command­ed in chief before the Place, was so taken with his Bravery, that he lov'd him no o­therwise than a Brother, and commended his great Actions to all his Friends; for he never fear'd any Fatigue, being frequently accustom'd during the Campaign to sleep in his Boots and Accoutrements, shewing by his example to the Dragoons, whose General he was, that by hardship and Toils, as by so many steps they must ascend to the Pinnacle of Glory: He was always the last that dismounted, and the first that moun­ted his Horse. If his Troops rested in any place, he himself was wont to go the rounds, and visit the advanced Guards; if any Attack were to be made, you'd certainly find him at the Head of his Troops, with an undaunted Courage, animating them by his Example. These are those extraordi­nary Endowments befitting so great a Cap­tain, that have rais'd him to that Ad­vantagious Post, in which we now see him; The King his Master having since [Page 8] the Siege of Namur, where he defended that City, like a great Warriour, made him a Duke and Peer of France, not without hopes that his Majesty will in time be pleas'd to make him Constable. Now let us take a view of his Amorous Exploits, these being the chief Subject of our present Relation. 'Tis not to be thought strange that so famous a Soldier as the Marshal de Boufflers, has often languish'd in the Arms of some Beauty or a­nother, For he has been as Victorious in his Conquests of Love as in his Martial feats, and one may affirm, that he has been crown'd with Roses and Lawrels as frequently in the Field of Venus, as in that of Mars. Part of the French Frontiers have been the Theater, where both his Amourous and Military Expeditions have been represented: The City of Puicer­da, of which I have spoken before, will fur­nish us with a Subject of this Nature.

The Prince de Conti and the Duke de Na­vaille having made themselves Masters of this Placeby Capitulation, the Troops were for some time sent into Quarters of refresh­ment. At this time it was, that Love which seldom lets slip any Opportunity, did peirce the Heart of the Marshal de Boufflers: The God of Love, who displays his Standard in the Field of Peace and Tranquility, hav­ing found it not impenetrable. In short, the Marshal was desperately Wounded by the [Page 9] bright Eyes of a Spanish Widow, whom he accidentally met in a Boat passing the River Segre. The name of this fair Lady was Donna Olympia, who besides that she was very amiable in her Person, by her courteous Deportment to our General, and her charm­ing and engaging Air conquer'd his Heart: As she spoke very good French, so he offer'd her his Service in leading her out of the Boat with an intention to have accompanied her to her own House; but she notwithstanding her Heart began to feel some emotions for him, did re­fuse his offer, telling him that the Custom of her Country did not allow of such a Civility; that it wou'd be thought very strange if such a Gentleman as he shou'd Conduct a Lady home to her own Appartment; that such a thing wou'd be sufficient to ruin her Reputa­tion for ever. A certain grave old Matron, whose name was Tressa Alleva, (such a one as they call in Spain the Guardians of Young Women,) taking notice of what pass'd be­tween 'em, began to urge her to go home, tel­ling her with a very sour Countenance, with her great Spectacles upon her Nose, that her Discourse was too long with a Stranger, Alass! my dearest cry'd Olympia, (who al­ready began to feel some effects of Love to­wards the Marshal) my Heart does even now too much foretell me my Destiny of Loving one day this Stranger. Madam, [Page 10] reply'd the old Woman Smiling, you are soon intangl'd in the Snares of Love, with­out making a due Reflection upon what you are going about to do: Your Love towards a Frenchman is too foreward; if your Rela­tions shou'd be inform'd of this matter you'—The Marshal, who understood the threats of Tressa Alleva, thought it time to quit his Mi­stress, and having squeez'd her fair hand, he whisper'd her in the Ear, where he might see her again, if it were possible for him to live without her till after to morrow? ‘Just by that Seat, which you see built at the Foot of that Rock, said she, with a very passionate Air, I hope to have the good For­tune to talk with you to morrow about ten a Clock at night, if my Passion do not de­prive me of this Life before that time.’ This was enough for the Marshal, who did now fansie himself the happiest Man in the whole World; so that the rest of that day and the next following, seem'd to him a Year, or (according to the Hyperbolical expre­ssions of Lovers) an Age, which he spent in making reflections upon his approaching Fe­licity and Pleasures.

Which way, wou'd he say to himself, shall I begin to Court my Mistress? What Fa­vours shall I ask first? It must not said he, Smiling, be tosee her Feet, for the Spanish Lady's wou'd dye as soon as let any one see [Page 11] or touch them, they being commonly so very small, that they appear like a Puppet's, in com­parison of those of Men. Their own Hus­bands must not pretend to such a favour. Our General, who does not admire delays in Love, was extremely disturb'd at first with his growing Passion; but whilst he was ruminating upon the strangeness of this Adventure, and by his amourous conceits, had set himself all over in a Flame. The appointed hour of the Rendez-vous drew near; he went to the place nominated by his Mistress, and having pass'd several times by the House, he perceiv'd no Body, which almost drove him to despair, having lost all hopes of ever seeing again the Object which Tormented him with so much Violence. The Marshal waited almost an Hour, ex­pecting what wou'd be the issue of this Ad­venture; when he by the help of the Moon­light perceiv'd a Woman at a Window, play­ing with her Fingers after a strange manner: This is a certain way us'd in Spain, for Lo­ver thus to speak to one another; in a mute Language, the Marshal who was unac­quainted with this odd way of Courtship, did not understand the meaning of it; but be­ing come nearer to the Window, which was pretty low, and having perceiv'd that it was his new Mistress who call'd to him, he at that Moment made use of all the most [Page 12] tender Expressions, which are usual with Men at the beginning of a most violent Pas­sion. Donna Olympia was thereby touch'd to the very Heart; and told him in a languish­ing Tone: Sir, ‘pray don't speak so loud, we dare not make use in this Country of our Liberty as we cou'd wish; and turning all what the General had said into Raillery; is it possible, said she, that so lovely a Gen­tleman as you shou'd have left France, the very dwelling place of Love, without some very strong praeengagement? Alass! without Flattering my self, I can scarce be perswad­ed that you are come hither, without having lost some part of your Liberty. My case wou'd be desperate, Madam, reply'd the Marshal gallantly, to have lost it before I had the opportunity to lay it at your Feet: The most miserable Estate unto which you have reduc'd me, is a convincing Proof of it; you having depriv'd me of my own self. I was not able to resist such dangerous blows as Yours; you have Wounded me in the most sensible Part; I did Love or rather adore you from the very first Moment I saw you. There is none but you, that can make me Fortunate or unfortunate; Pronounce therefore with your own charming Lips my Sentence of Life or Death.’

Donna Olympia look'd upon her Lover with Eyes which sufficiently declar'd her Passion, [Page 13] and finding that Love began to overcome her Reason, she reply'd not without some confusion: ‘O Heavens! How weak do I find my self at this Instant? What crime am I going to commit against my Duty? Sir, Sir pray have pitty upon me.’ The Marshal was vext to the very Soul, that he cou'd not make use of so Favourable an Opportunity as presented it self; he cou'd have wish'd that the Wall which parted his Beloved and him, had been of Paper or Cloth, that he might have made his way thro' it: He struck with his Sword several times against the Window, the Enemy of his happiness, but alass! in vain, for he found her so barricado'd up with Iron Grates, that he cou'd scarce put a Finger thro' it. His belov'd Angel, who was not insensible of his disquiet, and wou'd very willingly have had a more secret interview with him, cry'd out to him, ‘take Courage, Sir, Fortune has always a kind chance for Lovers.’ The Marshal was so Transported with this charming Expression, that he cou'd not forebear telling her: ‘Divine Creature, I dye a thousand times a day by a most vio­lent Death, being uncertain of my destiny; if you be so Inhumane and Cruel as to deny me your pity, and prohibit me to enjoy the Pleasure of seeing you in Private. Rather suffer, that after having declar'd my Passion and what Pains you have made me undergo, [Page 14] I may dye for grief at your Feet: But con­tinu'd he, I am resolv'd to do it without de­lay, and drawing his Sword, and putting the Point towards his Breast, I will sayd he, dye in your Sight: He swore these Words in so Melancholy a Tone, that Donna Olympia fearing he was in earnest, cry'd out all in Tears, hold, hold, for Heaven's sake, don't let your Passion drive you into des­pair, don't make your self the most Crimi­nal of all Mankind; why will you make an attempt against your own self, for want of a little Patience? Preserve your self for my sake, and I promise that I will find out a more favourable Opportunity.’ The Marshal seem'd extremely pleas'd with the assurances he had receiv'd from his Mistress, and glad that his feign'd attempt had made her believe that his intent of killing himself in her presence was real; tho' God knows, it was the least of his Thoughts, being not so much a Fool as to dye for her sake. Nevertheless looking upon her with a very Passionate Eye, ‘Madam, said he, I am infinitely oblig'd to your Goodness, for saving my Life, which was ready to be Sacrific'd before you, if you had not stopt my Hand, and thereby pre­vented the fatal Stroak, I shou'd have cer­tainly executed it without delay; but now since you flatter me with hopes of seeing you again in private; I will leave my most ado­rable [Page 15] Olympia, to convince you of the great­ness of that Passion, which I have for you, and to shew you that an Age will not be long enough to satisfy my Desires.’ The fair Spani­ard perceiving some of her Women to come that way, retir'd into another Chamber; and the Mar. who surmis'd that some body had sur­pris'd her whilst she was talking with him, re­tir'd somewhat backward from the Window, with a resolution nevertheless to stay all Night to watch an opportunity of entertain­ing his Mistress a second time. Having thus walk'd up and down near the Ditch of an adjacent Castle, he saw at the very break of day, a Black-Moor coming from under the Ground out of a Vault, and making up to­wards him, who presented to him the fol­lowing Letter:

The Marshal who had not without some fear taken the Letter from the Black-moor, did imagine that perhaps it might be the De­vil who was come from the infernal Regions, on purpose do him some mischief, and be­ing at some uncertainty what to resolve up­on; he went back to his Lodgings, and en­quir'd of his Land-Lady, as well as he cou'd in the Spanish Tongue (which she understood very well) whether she knew that Lady who liv'd at the Foot of that Rocky Castle, which he nam'd to her. ‘Yes, very well, said she, she is the Relict of a certain honest Gen­tleman, who is lately dead, his Name was that of the Marquess of Toledo; but good God! continu'd she, how unhappy is that pretty Creature since the Death of her Hus­band, who lov'd her even to a degree of Folly? She is at present under the Govern­ment of a Brother, who Tyrannises over her like his Slave, not allowing her the Liberty of speaking one word to any Man. His name is Don Bilboano; he is Jealous even [Page 17] to a degree of Madness, and 'tis the com­mon discourse of the Town, that he is in Love with his Sister.’ ‘At that rate, reply'd the Marshal carelesly, as if he had not known her; a Man must expose himself to no small danger, if he shou'd go about to Court her for a Wife.’ O Lord! cry'd the good Woman, being much surpris'd, ‘this cruel Man threatens to Sheath his Sword in the Breast of any Gentleman that shall have the boldness, so much as to think of his Sister; he intending to be her only absolute Ma­ster.’ Here the Marshal interrupting her ‘said, but for God's sake do you believe that Donna Olympia entertains her Brother's Passion? I don't believe she does, reply'd the Woman; for how can so charming a Creature as she Love the most ill shap'd of all Men? for be­sides that, he is as ugly as the Devil; he has a hunch Back, enough to frighten Children withal, and his Legs are as crooked as a Hoop; tho' as to his internal Qualities, he is not inferiour to any Man, having accom­plish'd himself in all manner of Arts and Sciences.’ Monsieur Boufflers being extreme­ly well pleas'd with the Womans Answer, which he found very agreeable; and pursuing the former Discourse, ask'd her what was the reason that this Marchioness had chang'd her Name from Donna Toleda to Donna Olympia. Oh! reply'd she, that is the contrivance of that ‘[Page 18] ill favour'd piece her Brother, who will have it so. This evil Spirit cannot endure the name of his Brother in Law, his Head being fill'd with a fancy, that his Sister is a Maid still, and that he may enjoy her as such.’ This is an extravagant piece of Folly, reply'd the Marshal, ‘such a Fellow as this, if he liv'd in France, wou'd be sent to the House of Correction. It is not the Spanish fashion, answer'd the Woman, to imprison Gentle­men for being in Love with their Sisters; there are so many examples of this nature, that nothing is more common: Every one loves here what he likes best, without making any further Reflection upon the matter.’

The Marshal de Boufflers having ended this Discourse with his Land-Lady, retir'd to his Chamber, ruminating with himself concerning what he had understood from her. His Thoughts were much distracted the whole Night, and the Day following: He began to consider with himself to what dan­ger he was about to expose himself, if Donna Olympia's Brother shou'd find him with her; ‘if this ugly Devil, this Aesop shou'd, said he discover our Intrigue, we are both undone without Remedy; Plague on him! that this Monster shou'd have so good a Head-piece; but let it be as it will, the hopes of possessing so charming a Creature is a sufficient Re­compence for a little danger.’ Having ta­ken [Page 19] this Resolution, he went towards the Rendez-vous, dress'd like an Adonis, and was no sooner come near the Gate of the Vault, when he saw the same Black-Moor with a Pike in his Hand, ready to attend him.

The first thing he did, was to demand the Marshal's Sword, and what other Arms he had about him, which so surpris'd the Marshal, that he made some difficulty of granting it. But the Black-Moor, who spoke good French, inform'd him that it was the Custom of the Country, for any Gen­tleman to leave his Sword at the Door, be­fore he enter'd a Lady's Appartment. ‘I know very well, reply'd the General, that this is practis'd in your common Houses, but the Case is otherwise here, where I believe my self to be in a Person of Qualities Lodg­ings. No matter for that answer'd the Moor with a Smile, give us your Sword, Sir, give us your Sword;’ Love having by this time overcome his Reason; he deliver'd up his Sword to the Moor, with some Lo­vis's d'or, at which the Black-Moor being overjoy'd, assur'd our General of his Fideli­ty, telling him that he needed fear nothing, since he was left to his care; ‘for said he, Don Bilboaono the Brother of this Lady, is such a Devil of a Man, that there is not one in the whole House, that has not wish'd him to the Devil these ten Years: Well it's enough [Page 20] my Friend, reply'd Monsieur de Boufflers, come lead me to your Mistresses Chamber.’ Donna Olympia having over-heard these last words, open'd the Door of her Closet, and the Marshal being enter'd, found her almost half undress'd, leaning upon a Couch em­broider'd with very fine Flowers. Her Complexion being very fair, and the Room where she was, beautify'd with Black Mar­ble, and illuminated with a great many Wax-tapers; she appear'd to him more beautiful than an Angel.

He did not approach without bearing the marks of a profound respect in his Counte­nance, and having set one of his Knees be­fore her on the Ground. ‘'Tis none but you say'd he, Divine Creature, that has the Power of Captivating my Reason. Your beauty has so far astonish'd me, that I am Transported even beyond my self.’ Then a charming blush cover'd her Face and Breasts, which made our Spanish Lady ap­pear without comparison, the fairest in the World. After she rise from her Couch, she went to the Looking Glass, where she pre­tended to set in order some of the puffs of her Hair; which were interwoven with the finest Diamonds that ever were seen: The Marshal then espying one of her little Hands whiter than the very Snow, he kiss'd it for the space of half an Hour without intermis­ssion. [Page 21] This his passionate Behaviour made Donna Olympia blush; and casting a very amourous look at him; Pray Sir said she, either moderate your Passion, or I am undone; Good God assist me! Where shall I find strength enough to ressist you? Ah! Madam, reply'd he, how is it possible for me, not to be sensible of your powerful Charms? It is you that inspire me alone at this Moment, and I can swear and pro­test to you, that in all my Life-time I never was so much enamour'd as now, having never met with any Object, which appear'd to me so ador­able as your self, not only in point of Beauty, but also with respect to all other Perfections, which are able to charm a Mortal Man. Sir, ans­wer'd the Lady with a languishing Air, is it possible that a Frenchman can be sincere? It is the general Opinion among us here, that their Amours are never real, but meer Compliments and satteries. By Heaven Sir, such a sort of Love wou'd not very well agree with my Con­stitution: And shall never receive any Encou­ragement from me.

Here the Marshal interrupted her with a Kiss, I know very well say'd he, Madam, that I ought to offer you something more Substantial than bare Words; but it is not always advisable to be too forward; don't you know that when a Fort is to be Attackt, we first take a view of its Avenues and Out-works. Donna Olympia, who wou'd fain have perswaded the Marshal that she [Page 22] did not understand his meaning, began to play with her little sucking Pig, which was adorn'd with red Ribands. This Crea­ture had also Silver-Bells in his Ears and a­bout his Neck; nay, even at the Tail, which made a strange kind of Harmony: This is the Fashion among the Spanish Lady's, who chuse rather to carry a little sucking Pig under their Arm, than the finest Lap-dog; 'Tis their Custom to make it squeek, when their Gallants ask 'em a Favour. Our Mar­shal, who perceiv'd her intent, took it from her, and put it into a little Hutch, made for that purpose. Then renewing his Courtship with a Thousand amourous Sighs: He at last forc'd these words from her fair Lips, Oh! ‘I Love you with a most violent Passion.’ And what Proof, reply'd the Marshal (em­bracing her) will you give me of your ‘Passi­on? You will not grant me the least Fa­vour; Ay, don't you know that Love is a Child, which pines after the utmost Favour? And what Sir, reply'd she, must a Woman keep nothing to her self, when she is to prove that she Loves? Are not Oaths strong and convincing enough to Lovers?’ Then lay­ing her Thumb a cross one of her other Fin­gers, and kissing it a thousand times, ac­cording to the Spanish Fashion, she told him, ‘I Love you above my Life; 'Tis impossi­ble for me to believe you, Madam,’ reply'd [Page 23] the Marshal in stealing some Kisses from her fair Lips, ‘its meerly impossible to believe it, except you grant me that which is the on­ly Pledge requir'd by Lovers,’ Surely re­ply'd she, with a very serious Countenance, I can scarce perswade my self that your Words are answerable to your Intentions, for shou'd I grant your desire, you wou'd cease to Love me as soon as you had enjoy'd me; don't you know that that Favour which you seek for with so much Heat, is the Grave of Love. How many gallant Heroes have we known who have been Bury'd under its ruins; and who have been lost when they thought themselves at the very Port of Felicity? The expectation of the Pleasure, will far exceed the enjoyment it self.

These Obstacles made by Olympia against the Marshal's Passion, did only serve to in­flame it and to quicken his desire of making himself Master of that piece of Ground, which she so Valiantly defended; and his Pas­sion growing more violent every moment, he cou'd not forbear telling her, that if she let him languish thus any longer, he shou'd dye instantly at her Feet, Donna Olym­pia then finding her strength to fail her, and fearing that she shou'd not be able to hold out much longer against her charming Con­queror (as she was wont to call him,) very courteously desir'd him to withdraw for that time, because the day began to appear, and [Page 24] that her Brother was accustom'd to walk the Rounds in the House every Morning early, who if he shou'd find a Man in her Chamber, they both wou'd be in great dan­ger of their Lives. The Marshal having un­derstood her meaning, with a profound re­verence quitted the Room, promising to re­new his Visit in a short time, Yes, Sir said she, giving him her Hand (which he kiss'd very Passionately) I promise it shall be so, my Heart is only too forward to give its consent to so agreeable an Entertainment; don't fail to see me to morrow at the same Hour in my Chamber. You may believe Madam, reply'd the Mar­shal, that I shall be overjoy'd to Execute your Commands, in which my Love is so nearly con­cern'd, and that every Hour; nay, every Mo­ment, will seem an Age to me, till such time that—Medina a Relation of this Lady coming towards her Chamber, and having made some noise in opening a door, she ob­lig'd our General to Decamp, with his whole Army of Sighs and Languishing Expressions: He return'd to his ordinary Post: I mean to his own Lodgings where instead of Sleep, he was overwhelm'd with a Thousand a­mourous Fancies: Donna Olympia flatter'd her self with having gain'd a great Point, since by breaking off the Conference, she had preserv'd that which indeed she was ready to part with. Her Heart was torn [Page 25] in pieces by two different Passions, for if her Vertue induc'd her strongly to its pre­servation, on the other hand she was apt to reproach her self for not having been more favourable to her Lover. Medina having per­ceiv'd the Confusion she was in, and draw­ing nearer to her, ask'd her in very affection­ate terms the cause of her disquiet. Alass! cry'd she, my Dearest, I am the most unfortun­ate of all living Creatures. Nothing but Death can expiate a crime which I have committed a­gainst my own self; Vertue strongly opposes my Inclinations; but Alass! I am in Love, to my eternal Confusion, with the most dangerous of all Men, who from the first Moment, I saw him, has over-rul'd my Reason. I have resisted this Passion with all my Strength, endeavouring to stifle it in its Birth, but this too tender, too Passion­ate Heart, has at last been forc'd to yield to its Conquerour. I am now no longer Mistress of it; he triumphs over it in spite of all my resistance. Ma­dam, reply'd Medina, (she being a Lady of a very subtil Wit) Who is that happy Mortal, that has such powerful Charms? What is become of that graceful haughtiness which never left you till this time? Oh! reply'd the Marchioness Sighing, I do not know my self my Dearest, there is something fatal in the matter, I am constrain'd to submit to the present influences of my Stars. Madam, reply'd the young Lady, take cour­age, I don't believe that Love is so dangerous [Page 26] and terrible as you describe it. If Love be a crime, it is one of the most Innocent, and very few Mor­tals are exempted from it. Who can without injustice condemn a Passion taught us by Nature it self? Especially since we our selves are not the cause of those Effects which she produces; it is she her self who is the Cause of that Sin, which appears so hanious in your Sight.

‘He whom I love reply'd Donna Olympiae briskly, is rather the cause of it. My Passion has quite overcome my Reason.’ Oh! Ma­dam reply'd Medina with a Smile, ‘this is the way to spoil all the pleasures of Love; but pray tell me who is this happy Man?’ He is a Frenchman my Dearest, answerd the fair Spaniard with a blush; ‘he is a French Gentleman the most charming of all Men, who has robb'd me of my Heart, without the least hopes of recovering it, this only way being left me to revenge my self upon him to robb him of his again.’

‘'Tis very odd, reply'd the young Lady, and pray Madam, what is his Name, it may be I may know him?’ Well my dear Medina, answer'd Donna Olympia, covering her Face with a veil, ‘since you are resolv'd to make me confess the truth to my own Confusion; know that it is the Marquess de Boufflers, Colonel of a Regiment of Dragoons, which are quarter'd hereabouts, and have lately serv'd in the Siege of Puicer­da; [Page 27] his Courage and Bravery is very well known in these Parts. The Marquess de Boufflers Madam, reply'd Medina, as being surpris'd, Oh! I know him very well, I have seen him often at Paris, when I belong­ed to the Queen's Retinue. And what Queen do you mean, say'd Donna Olympia?’ (her Head running upon other matters.) How Madam, reply'd Medina (who cou'd not forbear laughing) ‘sure you have not forgot that the French King has Marry'd the Sister of the King of Spain our Mo­narch, the Infanta Maria Theresia. Oh! you are in the right, reply'd the Marchio­ness, embracing her at the same time; I had quite forgot it; then you know that fair Thyrsis who has charm'd me, and what do you think of him?’ I Madam, answer'd the young Lady very modestly, ‘I think him to be a very accomplish'd Gentleman; but otherwise, I take him to be as fickle in his Amours as the rest of the French are, who make it their business to Court one Beauty after another, to tell 'em of their Suffer­ings, of their Sighs and Pains, which seldom are any where to be found but in their Compliments and Bilets Douces, which they are continually sending to their Mist­resses, and those are foolish enough to be­lieve that they are in Love with 'em. I had not long ago a Letter by me, the most [Page 28] passionate in the World, which this Gene­ral wrote to the Marchioness de Segnelay, Lady to one of the Secretaries of State, in which he had so lively painted the excess of his Passion, that one wou'd have believ'd a Man cou'd not live long under such an Agony. He told her, that her Eyes did every day commit a great many Murders, for which she must be accountable to God, and that it was Inhuman in her to dispeo­ple in such a manner the whole Kingdom of France. Cou'd any thing be more Hyperbo­lical, cou'd any thing be more Nicely contri­v'd, to cajole a Poor Lady, who lov'd him in good earnest?’ Alass! my Dearest, said Donna Olympia, don't draw the Picture of him, ‘who has robb'd me of my Liberty, so much to his disadvantage; if thou wert convinc'd as well as I that 'tis to late for me to resist his power, thou wou'dst pity me. To be short, I Love him, and 'tis? not in my pow­er to avoid it.’ She had no sooner spoke these Words, but she flew out of the Chamber and lockt her self up in her Closet, where amidst a Flood of Tears: Alafs, cry'd she; ‘Cruel Love, thou hast assail'd my Heart at a time when it was least a ware of thy most dan­gerous Snares. Heaven that knows the secrets of my Heart, is my Witness that my Passion is such that its impossible for Female pow­er to resist it. Am not I the most unhap­py [Page 29] of all Women, to wish at this very in­stant for the sight of him, who is the great­est Enemy of my repose: I wou'd fain banish these Thoughts, which only serve to feed my Passion, instead of checking it, which I am sensible wou'd be much more to my Advantage. But good God! How hard it is for a Woman of my Age to take a firm Resolution upon such a Critical Conjuncture; and how much more diffi­cult it is to put it in Execution! I can on­ly say thus much, that I wish I cou'd do that which I am confident is not in my Power.’

Thus the Lady having spent the greater part of the Day, and the next following Night, the Marshal found her taken up with these Tormenting Fancies. As soon as he enter'd the Room, he renew'd his former Courtships; assuring her, (as he was always accustom'd to do) of the violence of his Pas­sion. Donna Olympia receiv'd him somewhat coldly, and Monsieur Boufflers being surpris'd at this sudden change, broke out into these Words, Divine Creature; unto what must I attribute this indifferency, which I meet with in you at this time? What crime have I committed that cou'd deserve this Cruel Treatment from your Hands? He had no sooner spoke these Words, but he fell instantly into a Swoon at the Feet of the Marchioness, who being [Page 30] extremely concern'd at this sight, threw her self upon him, embracing him very Passio­nately; for she was afraid that as soon as he shou'd recover himself, he wou'd have re­course to his Sword, against his own Life, (as he had several times threatn'd he wou'd) but not finding his Sword at his side, she was excessively Transported with joy, not doubting but that her Black-moor had taken it from him before he came into her Cham­ber. In the mean time, she was not spareing of her Caresses nor Kisses, in hopes by that means to recover him out of his Swoon, which indeed was only feigned; neverthe­less he held it out thus, as long as ever he was able, having since protested to me, that in all his Life-time, he never receiv'd so much Satisfaction and Pleasure, as at that time, when he was thus entangl'd in the em­braces of this fair Lady, whose Passion be­ing then without disguise, did sufficiently testify that she Lov'd him in good earnest. He continu'd for some Moments in this charming Extasie, ere the fair Spaniard cou'd make him come out of his voluntary Trance, and that not without a Thousand Amourous Kisses, when she begg'd of him to sit down by her, upon a Turky-work Carpet; where he perceiv'd a flood of Tears trickling down the Cheeks of his fair Mistress: Being now very well recover'd; he began to renew his [Page 31] former Addresses, and to give the most lively representation of his Sufferings and Pains. You say you Love me, Madam, added he, looking upon her with a very Passionate Eye, and why will you then deny me that Fa­vour which I have so often Su'd for? If you will not any longer delay to grant me the utmost Favour, I here Swear and protest to you, that nothing shall be able to separate me from you, and that I will not Love any thing besides you in the World.

Those that know the Marshal de Boufflers, to be one of the most inconstant Lovers in the World, who esteems it the greatest mis­fortune that can befal a Gentleman, to Love one Object longer than a Month or two at the most; will easily imagine, that he did strain the Point to the utmost, when he made this Oath. Donna Olympia on the other side, who had not forgot what her Kinswoman had told her concerning his in­constancy, propos'd a Match between 'em, which exceedingly surpris'd him, his Thoughts being very far from Marriage at that time, especially in a Foreign Country. As soon as he had recover'd himself from this Surprise he endeavour'd to conceal his sentiments, and to appear as gay in his Humour as before. He was not Ignorant, that if a Gentleman does expect the last Favour from a fair Lady in Spain, he must not deny her any thing; [Page 32] wherefore turning the Discourse another way, he promis'd to send her some of the best Pearls and Diamonds, and such other valu­able things, as he cou'd procure in the City. This Generous offer insensibly overcame the rigour of the Fair Spaniard, and tho' her lo­ver had not at this time mention'd what she most wish'd for, she imputed it to the pro­found respect she believ'd he had for her.

The Marshal, who is as great a Master in the Art of Love as in that of War, did not cease to advance his approaches with vigour, and to lay a formal Siege to that place, which he was resolv'd to Conquer; it must be confess'd, the access to it was very difficult; but he besieg'd it so closely, and Attck'd it so vigourously, that at last the White Flagg was put up, tho' Donna Olym­pia for this time deferr'd to sign the Capitu­lation. She told him that she was not as yet sufficiently prepar'd for a total surrender; that she expected to receive the Marks of his Generosity, as to those Presents, which he had spoke of before; and that in the mean time she wou'd present to him a very fine Scarff, which formerly belong'd to her deceas'd Husband, and which was curiously Embroyder'd, by her own Hands. The Mar­shal having receiv'd the Present, departed very well satisfy'd for that time. After he had Din'd, he went into the City, where he bought some of the finest Amethysts and [Page 33] alds that he cou'd meet with, and having in­termix'd 'em with some Diamonds of good value, sent 'em a little after, by one of his Dragoons, who presented 'em together with a Billet Doux from his Master to Donna Olympia; which she having Kiss'd a Thou­sand times, the Dragoon had much a do to forbear Laughing out, at the Fantastick Actions of this amourous Lady. But she having open'd the Letter, found these fol­lowing Lines:

The Lady was at first resolv'd to have sent an Answer to the Marshal's Letter, but con­sidering with her self, that Secrets of this nature ought not to be committed to the discretion of a private Centinel; she forbore for that time. Not long after, Night be­ginning to approach, the Marshal did not fail to meet his Beloved at the appointed Hour. He had dress'd himself that Day as [Page 35] fine as cou'd be, and the better to please his Spanish Mistress, he wore that same Scarff, which he had receiv'd as a present from her. The Lady, on the other Hand, had strove to out do him in the Richness of her Apparel. Her Suit was all made of Cloath of Silver, trimm'd with a vast quantity of Green Ri­bands, and a very rich Gold-Galloon all after the French Mode. Upon her Head she wore green Feathers, which made a great Addition to her Face, which was extremely Beautiful. The Tresses of her fair Hair, which hung down to her bare Neck, whiter than Snow; appear'd the most charming in the World.

The Marshal at the sight of her, was so overcome by his Passion, that he was not able to utter one Word; and she seeing him so silent at a time when she least expected it, cou'd not forbear asking him the Reason of it; Monsieur Boufflers, answer'd with a heavy Sigh, Madam, Your Charms are the cause of my silence, they having taken from me the use both of my Tongue and my Reason. I am not the same Man I was, when I first saw you. Here the Marchioness interrupting, and em­bracing him; For God's sake, said she, My Lord, awake out of this slumber; I love you more than my own Life, and if you don't answer my Passion, I assure you that I shall not live any longer than your self: so that if your Words be true, we shall be the Occasion of one anothers [Page 36] Death. Oh! my most adorable Deity, reply'd the Marshal, fixing his lips upon her's, let us dye for one Moment both together. For God's sake, Sir, answer'd she very charmingly, don't put things so far, I am but too much afraid of that Death you speak of, which often proves the spring of whole Rivulets of Tears. What fear is it reply­ed the Marshal, all upon a sudden, that has seis'd you, don't you look upon me as a Man of Honour? I assure you that I wou'd rather dye a thousand times if it were possible, than be in the least guilty of any Crime towards my ador'd Mi­stress. ‘Oh Heavens!’ cry'd she, ‘can you ask, Sir What I fear? I fear your fickle Humour, your inconstancy, which I be­lieve to be an Hereditary Evil, incident to Gentlemen of your Nation, who think it a Crime to love any Woman long; Un­faithfulness and Inconstancy being their chief Delight.’ And Madam, reply'd the Marshal briskly ‘certainly you speak by your own experience, that you can talk with so much assurance concerning their Incon­stancy;’ No Sir, answer'd Donna Olympia, as briskly as he; ‘I never was so unfortun­ate as to fall under their clutches till now you being the first, who has made me sensible of Love.’ The Marshal perceiving with what Resolution this Lady held out against all his Attacks, and being resolv'd to [Page 37] bring the matter to a conclusion, told her with a great deal of seeming indifferency ‘Madam I wou'd advise you to break off with me, whilst occasion serves; to tell the Truth, the French are great Dessemblers, and especially the Officers, who seldom make a farther account than for one Day, leaving all the rest to Chance and Fortune: Nevertheless I hope you'll not deny but that the Spaniards are not behind hand with the French, as to the Point of Inconstancy in Love. And to speak sincerely, that Variety which is so delightful in Love, is agreeable to all Men without exception. As to my part, I will not be so Presumptuous as to be answerable for my own Heart, 'tis your part to preserve it by the Force of your Charms. If by Chance, Time (which unties the hardest Knots, and breaks the strongest Chains) shou'd make me shake off your Fetters; impute it to your own want of Strength and Deserts, which were not sufficient to keep me long under your Obedience; This indeed is a Supposition, which perhaps will never come to pass, and you may well tell me, that I am not very Complaisant at this time; but to confess the Truth, I will rather chuse to shewless Complaisance, and more Sincerity, than to be accounted a Dissembler and a Perfidious Wretch: These being the Titles [Page 38] which your Sex usually bestow upon us, when for want of their own merit, they are no longer able to keep their Lovers un­der Subjection.’

'Tis impossible to find words suitable to the Surprise, which this Harangue of the Mar­shal caus'd in Donna Olympia; she took it so hainously, that immediately without speaking one Word, she flew out of the Chamber into another. The Marshal seeing himself thus left alone, was just ready to leave the Chamber, when espying the Picture of his lovely Spaniard lying upon the Table, he cou'd not forbear to take it up, and to put it in his Pocket. He was no sooner return|'d to his own Lodgings, and having order'd Candles to be brought up, but he began to look very earnestly upon the Picture; which was the finest drawn that ever was seen, the Marchioness being painted in the Habit and Posture of Diana, with a Quiver hanging over her Shoulders, and a Bow in her Hand. The Marshal finding this Picture so lovely, What new Charm, do I discover, said he to himself, now I begin to repent of those Words, which the refusal of her last Favour made me utter. He reproach'd himself thus for a long time; and so tormented himself both that Night and the next Day, that his grief seem'd to be pas'st Remedy. At last after a Thousand Reflections, which distracted his [Page 39] Mind, he resolv'd to go and renew his Visits to the Marchioness, at the accustom'd time. Donna Olympia in the the mean while, who had not left the Marshal, without a great constraint, was altogether over­whelm'd with Grief and Tears. Medina her dear Confident, found her in this Po­sture; and she happen'd to come in, very Opportunely, for Donna Olympia was just ready to Kill her self with the Marshal's Sword, which he had left with the Moor, who had given it to his Lady as somewhat very precious, belonging to the Marshal de Boufflers; whereas it wou'd have prov'd fatal to this Poor Lady, if her Kinswoman had not stopt her Hands, crying out to her, For God's sake what are you going about to do? Consider that you are a Christian, and that you must be answerable for a Soul which you have re­ceiv'd, from Almighty God. What is it that cou'd put you upon such a desperate Resolution? Can the ill usage of a Lover be a Motive strong enough to incite you to Murder your self? Oh! con­sider and dread God's Justice, which never lets Crimes of this nature go unpunish'd. Donna Olym­pia was not able to speak one Word in answer to Medina, but all her strength sailing her, she fell into a Swoon at the Feet of her Kinswo­man. This young Lady having lifted her up, and lay'd her upon a Couch; by the help of some strong Waters, which she held to her [Page 40] Nose, brought her to her self again. My Dearest Cosin, said she, tenderly embracing her, what was it that cou'd induce you to take this rash Resolution of Destroying your self? Alass! my Dearest, reply'd the Marchioness, in a languishing Tone, What wou'd you have me tell you? That ungrateful Man, of whom I have spoke to you, has already made me feel the effects of his Inconstancy; This Perfidious Creature has abandon'd me before he has enjoy'd the sweet Fruits of our Love. Oh! you only spoke too true Medina, when you told me, that the French were Fickle and Capricious in Love. I am only too sensible that I ought to fly from him, but I can­not; my Passion forces me to set aside all other con­siderations, which wou'd banish me from his Sight. Medina was about to make Answer, when Don Bilboano the Marchioness's Brother, hav­ing heard the out-cryes of the Women in her Chamber, when she Swoon'd away en­tr'd the Room with his Sword ready drawn. Donna Olympia having a quick Wit, imme­diately hid the Marshal's Sword under her Bed, to take away all manner of Suspicion from her Brother, whom she knew to be al­most mad with Jealousie. She gave him to understand how all upon a sudden she felt her self so ill, that she Swoon'd away, but that thanks to Heaven, she was now very well recover'd. Don Bilboano told his Sister that he was overjoy'd to see her so well, and [Page 41] having Caress'd her in a more Passionate manner, than became a Brother, he left the Room. Night now began to approach, and our Lady, who was very impatient to see her Lover again, made her Black-Moor stand Centry at the same door, thro' which the Marshal was wont to be conducted into her Appartment; having desir'd Medina to stay with her, till such time that he shou'd come in, whom she expected with so much Impati­ence. Our General did not fail to be there at the accustom'd Hour; but under the disguise of a Dragoon, for fear of being taken too much notice of, if he always appear'd as an Officer. He presented his Sword to the Moor, who refus'd to take it, not knowing him in this Disguise. The Marshal having convinc'd the Moor by putting some Lovis's d'or into his Hand, that it was himself; he by that means sav'd his Life, which he had else put in jeo­pardy for his Mistress's sake. Having enter'd his Mistress's Chamber, he threw himself im­mediately at her Feet, begging of her to pardon all what he had told her, protesting that he was very sensible of his Fault, and that if she thought fit, he wou'd expiate it, by making himself a Sacrifice at her Feet: He express'd these words to naturally, and with an Air so engaging, that the Marchioness's anger was wholly appeas'd; she reproachi'd him with his Inconstancy and want of Love; She [Page 42] call'd him Capricious fickle and Inconstant Frenchman; and added many other Taunts, which she imagin'd might affect him most sensibly. The Marshal bore every thing, not with the patience of a Dragoon (for this is a quality not peculiar to 'em;) but like Job, for he did not so much as utter one word in answer to her Reproaches; On the contrary, to make some amends for his Fault, he did nothing but kiss, sometimes her Hand, and sometimes the Hemm of her Garment; she being that day Dress'd all in Black; it be­ing the Custom in Spain, if a Lady looses her Gallant, or believes she has lost him, to dress herself in Mourning Cloaths: 'Twas for this same reason that Donna Olympia had put her self in Mourning, imagining that she shou'd never see the Marshal again; who was as yet resolv'd not to quit her so, before he was come a little nearer to the Point. Conformably to this Resolution, he press'd her very hard, not to let him suffer any longer, adding, that the Pains which she made him endure, were beyond Expression, nay, that they cou'd not be imagin'd by any Person but one who lov'd so Passionately as himself. Donna Olympia seeing what pains the Marshal took to represent to her, his Love, cou'd not forbear laughing at it, when the Marshal with a Smile told her, Madam, ‘in­deed you are very Cruel, thus to divert your [Page 43] self at the expence of your unfortunate Lo­vers, whom you make to languish at your Feet, without shewing the least Compas­sion to 'em; when you go to Confession I hope you'll not forget to tell your Father Confessor among other Sins, how you make it your diversion to cause Mankind to dye a languishing Death, and how many Murders have been committed by those fair Eyes.’ I don't know Sir, reply'd the Marchioness, laughing outright, ‘I ne­ver took any account of their number.’ But continu'd she, looking upon the Mar­shal, who feign'd himself Ill, ‘Pray tell me whether you are Sick in good earnest; Pray let me feel your Pulse, truly it beats very quick.’ Alass! my dearest Creature, re­ply'd the Marshal de Boufflers, embracing her ‘how shou'd it be possible to be so near so lovely and charming an Object as you are, without the greatest emotion of all my Vi­tal Spirits; certainly if you don't soon take pity of me, I cannot live much longer,’ Oh Heavens! reply'd the Lady, keeping him at a little distance; ‘how you put me into a fright, in this habit of a Dragoon. How cou'd it enter your Thoughts, thus to disguise your self, that I am not able to en­dure the sight of it.’ Madam answer'd the Marquess, ‘you know the Reason why I did it, 'twas because I shall not be so much [Page 44] observ'd, as if I shou'd appear every day in the same Equipage. Besides this disguise may prove very convenient upon another account; for I wou'd not for all the World that our Generals shou'd get the least notice of our amourous Intreague. I am the greatest admirer of secresie that can be, but especially in Love-concerns, where even­matters of the least moment ought to be kept secret.’ Here the fair Spaniard inter­rupting him, ‘then pray Sir, said she, give me leave to dress you in Womens Apparel; thus we shall have the conveniency of en­joying one another with more freedom. O Lord! Madam, reply'd he, don't con­trive a thing which cannot but be very much to my disadvantage; I am so hard favour'd that in a Womans Head-dress I shall be only fit to frighten Children.’ Let me for this time pass as I am, and I ‘pro­mise you that I will return to morrow in another Equipage, which shall have no­thing terrible in it. In the mean while let us not loose the enjoyment of a happy Minute.’ ‘To Morrow, to Morrow cry'd she, Mr. Dragoon.’ Oh! Madam, reply'd the Marshal, ‘it is not without great vio­lence, that I can deferr it till then. The Heat and vigour of Love slackens by de­lays; the Cannon is ready mounted, let us make a breach in the Walls, and enter [Page 45] with our Swords drawn.’ Sir, reply'd the Lady, ‘the Duke de Navaille at the head of the French King's Army, cou'd have said no more. If terms of War are the same with those of Love, I don't as yet understand the Language, therefore I hope you'll give me some time to learn 'em.’

It was not without very weighty Reasons that the Marshal was so eager, to come to the Conclusion of the whole Story; for he had but a little time to stay at Puicerda, hav­ing receiv'd Orders to March towards the Rhine Where: The Counts of Schomberg and Choiseul, and the Marshal de Crequi; threat­n'd to Besiege Rheinsfeld, a Place Situated in a Plain. These considerations caus'd no small commotions in his Mind: Which was divided between the glory of Arms and the delights of Love. But at the present, being oblig'd by his Mistresses command, to retire, he did it with so much indifferency, that he not so much as afforded her one part­ing Kiss, which she earnestly wish'd for, as I have understood since. Being return'd to his Lodgings, he took a Resolution not to visit her in two or three days, in hopes that by this device he shou'd bring her over the sooner, to grant his Request. During the time of his absence, he employ'd all his Wits in finding out something or another, which might oblige her to cry for fair Quar­ter; [Page 46] and at last he obtain'd his aim, as will appear from the sequel of the History.

Having consider'd with himself that all the Spanish Lady's are extremely taken with the vanity of rich Cloaths, tho' they themselves are not very extravagant that way. He or­der'd a Suit to be made, the richest that cou'd be contriv'd; it was trimm'd with Amarant and Gold Colour'd Ribbands (this being the favourite Colour of his Mistress) his Waste-coat was of the same Colour, fine­ly embroider'd by a certain Mooress, who was very famous for that sort of Work in those Parts. He wore a green Feather in his Hat; his Legs being extraordinarily well shap'd, he put on that day a pair of black Silk Stockings, and a pair of very small neat Shoe's, lin'd with Crimson-Velvet, which was at that time the Mode at Puicerda. Whilst he was dressing himself, he said to his Valet du Chambre, whose Name was Champonniere, and who knew the whole In­trigue, See what a Man is fain to do for a Mistress, wou'dst thou doe the same for thine? O Yes, reply'd he, If I thought she deserv'd it. Thou art in the right on't, said Monsieur de Boufflers, he that will please the Women must take care to appear in a very fine Equipage. When he was dress'd, he thought it an Age ere the appointed Hour was come, which was ten a Clock at Night. He walk'd hastily up and [Page 47] down his Chamber, being in a continual Study concerning his amourous Adventure. At last the wish'd for Hour drew near, when with all the speed imaginable he hastn'd to his Mistress.

Medina by order from Donna Olympia con­ducted him into a certain Appartment, where he had never been before. This Room being adorn'd with very rich Tapestry, great Crystallin Looking Glasses, and good store of Wax-tapers; so that any Persons might view themselves all over from Head to Foot. The Marshal being for some time entertain'd by Medina, whom he did not know, tho' he had seen her before at Paris; look'd upon the Tapestry-work with a very discerning Eye, asking her several times the mean­ing of divers Figures which he saw, and par­ticularly, concerning that of a certain Prin­cess, represented there with a naked Sword which she was about to deliver to her Lo­ver, for him to Sheath it in her Breast What extravagancy is this, cry'd the Marshal, Cou'd any thing be so barbarous, as to run a Sword in­to the Breast, of so lovely a Woman? Oh! Sir, reply'd the young Lady, If you were acquain­ted with the whole Adventure, it wou'd not seem so strange to you. This unfaithful Lady having at several times prov'd Treacherous in her Love; and being one day all overcome with shame and Confusion, when he reproach'd her with [Page 48] her perfidiousness, at last snatch'd his Sword from his side, which she presented to him, begging of him to sheath it in her Breast, to expiate her for­mer inconstancy. But the Prince who detested so Villainous an Act, wou'd by no means comply with her demands. This is somewhat surprising to me Madam, reply'd the Marshal, I cou'd scarce have believ'd that a Woman cou'd be so Treacherous to her Lover. He wou'd have continu'd his Discourse, if he had not been interrupted by the coming in of Donna Olympia, who appear'd to him as fair as an Angel. She had dress'd her self, that day so advantageously, that she quite amaz'd the Marshal by her charms; he for some time not being able to doe any thing but to gaze upon her. Certain Tresses of Hair which hung down to her Neck, were no small ad­dition to her charming Beauty. Her Gown and Petty-coat were of an Amarant and blew Colour, and her Girdle all cover'd with Diamonds of great value. Monsieur de Boufflers being at that instant more in­flam'd than ever, told her very tenderly that at this moment she had quite subdu'd his Heart; and that she appear'd to him so charming, that he cou'd not look upon her otherwise than his adorable Deity. Sir, reply'd she; you are pleas'd to make sport with me, 'tis you that appear more bright than a Star, and more charming than ever Adonis was. You have this day taken par­ticular [Page 49] care to set your self off to the best advan­tage; 'tis possible you have some great design in hand. Yes Madam, reply'd the Marshal, kiss­ing her Snow white Hand, my design is to please you, and effectually to make you sensible of my Passion, all naked as it is. Oh! no Sir, said the Lady, 'tis possible you may frighten me, you had better cover it with somewhat or another. Medina who was unwilling to disturb these two Lovers, retir'd out of respect to her Kins­woman. The Marshal being now left in Com­pany only with his Mistress, did so lively re­present the vehemency of his Passion, in Terms so affectionate and obliging, confirm'd by a thousand Oaths and Imprecations, that he wou'd Love her as long as he liv'd; that at last the fair Spaniard was vanquish'd, and having ask'd him with a very tender and Passionate Air; Will you never cease to Love me? Will you never forsake me? She surren­der'd the Place which had held out so long against the Marshal's most vigourous Attacks. The Marshal had no sooner taken possession of this strong Hold, but he repented of the Bargain; having found her nothing near so amiable as he had imagin'd before.

The Spanish Lady's are generally Subject to a great Infirmity; for as soon as they have pa­ss'd the Age of Eighteen or Twenty Years, they are seiz'd with a continual Flux, which is not fit to be touch'd nor so much as nam'd, [Page 50] and the worst is, that no Remedy can be found against it: This was more than sufficient to put our General out of conceit with his Mi­stress; he being the Nicest Man in the World, as to Women. Indeed he was so dis­may'd at this Bloody Encounter, that he cou'd scarce conceal his displeasure. The Lady was for having him renew the amourous En­gagement, but he excus'd himself as well as he cou'd, telling her that on a sudden he was seis'd with a most violent Head-Ach: The Lady was therefore oblig'd to expect the second Rencounter the next time; which is as yet to come, for he never came near her since that Day. He was nevertheless so generous, as to make her a Present of some Jewels, which he had brought along with him for that purpose, as a reward of that Favour, which he had receiv'd from this fair Spaniard. Donna Olympia with a pro­found reverence Kiss'd her own Hands; which according to the Custom of that Country, is as much as to say, I accept the Present: Nay she appear'd extremely well sa­tisfi'd at first with it, looking upon it as a Pledge of her Lover's Passion; but she was most grosly mistaken in her aim, for the Mar­shal's Passsion was grown so cool by this time, that he wish'd himself at a great distance from the Place where he was. Donna Olympia in the mean while began to be more and more [Page 51] sensible of the indifferency of her Lover, which made her break out into these Words: Did not I tell you before, Sir, that as soon as you had obtain'd what you so Passionately wish'd for, you wou'd not continue to Love me with the same Ardour as before; all Men usually loose a great part of their eager Desires, as soon as they have tasted the purest and most delicious Pleasures of Love. Oh! how much are you chang'd al­ready, what is become of that Passion, which the Universe was not able to contain? What is become of all your most sincere Protestaions; what of all your Passionate Expressions? The Marshal, who began to be afraid that the Lady might play him some scurvy trick or another, or perhaps cause him to be Poiniarded, be­fore he cou'd get out of the House, was fain to set on the best countenance he cou'd; and to Caress her with a thousand fair Pro­mises, of which he did not intend to keep the least. By this Artifice he at last got clear of his Mistress, having first made a so­lemn Promise to visit her as often as she shou'd think convenient. Promises, made in the Air, without the least Prospect of ac­complishment, except he had lik'd the Game better than he did; but what wou'd not a Man say to a Woman, when she has lost her charms, and is become Burdensome? The Marshal being return'd to his Lodgings, had now all his Thoughts employ'd how to [Page 52] Decamp with privacy from Puicerda, which he now began to nauseate as much as he had­admir'd it before. Have not I done very finely, sai'd he to himself, to have spent so much time i'dly in an Amourous Adventure, which was not worth the pains I took in looking after it? Madam Olympia, 'twas not in your power to retain me long in your Service; I was very much mistaken in your Charms. You are not engaging enough for a Man of my Humour, who hates to Swim in—But away with it, let us not think of it any more, for I begin to be Heart-sick. Then calling his Valet du Chambre, Champon­niere, said he, hadst thou ever a Spanish Mi­stress? Pray tell me your Adventures. The Marshal's Gentleman finding his Master in a Humour to divert himself with him, some part of the Night, burst out into laughter; having soon perceiv'd, how he had been treated by this Spanish Lady. How now, Ras­cal! said the General, is this your way, to laugh at me as fast as you can? Oh! Sir, reply'd the Servant laughing as heartily as he did before; You have order'd me to make a recital of my a­mourous Adventures, and when I reflect upon some passages of 'em, 'tis impossible for me to forbear laughing. If thy Mistress were a Spaniard, said Monsieur de Boufflers, without question she gave thee great satisfaction. Yes Sir, answer'd his Genteleman, I have had a touch with most Nations How, said the Marshal; then [Page 53] thou hast dipt thy Sword in that Current of the Spanish Women. What dost thou think of these running Rivulets? Truly Sir, said he, I don't know what to say of 'em, but that they are not very Savoury. Thou art in the right on't, re­ply'd the General, Let us have no more of 'em, or else I shall Spew my Heart out. Go bring me up some Wine, to recruit my Spirits, or else I shall Swoon in good Earnest. The Gentleman thought that his Master had only been in jest, but he was extremely surpris'd when he saw him instantly fall from his Chair upon the Ground. Being in a great Consternation, he call'd up the Land-lady, who having wash'd his Face very well with fair Water, soon brought him to himself again, and hav­ing caus'd him to be laid in his Bed he rested pretty well for the remainder of the Night.

Some days after, Monsieur Boufflers quitted Catalonia, and march'd with the French Army towards the Rhine, where he signalis'd him­self in several advantageous Rencounters with the Imperialists. The two Marshals de Crequi and de Navaille pursu'd their Victories against the Imperial Forces, having defeated a considerable Party of their Dragoons; and the Marshal de Boufflers gave great Proofs of his Valour in this Engagement, which was follow'd by the surrender of the Castle of Dortamburg and that of Fort Kell. A­midst these Martial Exploits, the Marshal de [Page 54] Boufflers did not lay aside his tender inclina­tions for the fair Sex, being as soon as he was a little at leasure, as indefatigable in his amourous Engagements, as he had been be­fore in his Warlike Enterprizes; as it will ap­pear in the sequel of our Story: But be­fore we proceed, let us return to the unfor­tunate Donna Olympia, who being quite ras'd out of his Memory, shew'd all the marks of a despairing Person, in tearing off her Hair, and committing all sorts of Extrava­gancies, without suffering any one so much as to Speak to her of Consolation. Medina endeavour'd to perswade her, that it was the common chance of Women in Love to be forgot and Slighted by their Gallants. But all in vain; for she continually Exclaim'd against her ill Fortune, calling him at the same Moment ungrateful and perjur'd Wretch. Where art thou now, said she, with all thy Oaths and deceitful Promises? Oh good Heavens! can you suffer that such a Monster as this, shou'd walk upon the Face of the Earth af­ter having violated all that is Sacred to me? What ill Fate did over rule my Inclinations, when I granted him that, which ought to have been more dear to me than my own Life. This incon­stant, Perfidious Wretch triumphs over my Ho­nour. Ah! I am resolv'd to Travel all over the World in quest of him, on purpose to reproach him with his infidelity, and if he refuse to hearken to [Page 55] my just Complaints, I will, said she, (taking up a Dagger which lay upon the Table) Stabb him to the Heart. Yes, said she, I don't doubt but this Arm of mine shall have strength enough to dispatch this faithless Wretch, who ought not to live any longer, since he has deceiv'd me. She had no sooner spoke these Words, and being alto­gether animated with Revenge, but she begg'd of Medina to be her Companion in this Enter­prise, saying that they wou'd both disguise themselves in Mens Habit, and find out the Marshal in whatever part of the World he might be. But her Kinswoman, who was more prudent in weighing the matter, ut­terly rejected her Proposal, as being so little agreeable to their Sex, representing to her all the dangers, which must be the ne­cessary Consequences of such an attempt, to Women of their Quality.

Will you Madam, said she, very wittily act the Heroine Musqueteer, will you be ambi­tious to imitate your Romantick Heroes, what gainer will you be by all this? But to make your self a Laughing Stock to the World. Let your un­grateful Lover enjoy his own Peace, 'tis possible his Conscience does already sufficiently accuse him of his Treachery. Your French Gentlemen, as I have often told you, seldom do otherwise than he has done; and I pitty those poor Women who are so unfortunate as to believe 'em. Endeavour therefore to compose your Mind; that is the only [Page 56] way left you to be even with him, for I don't que­stion that but he is vain enough to believe that you are extremely concern'd at his Absence: But if I were in your case, he shou'd never boast of that satisfaction. Oh! my Dearest, reply'd Donna Olym­pia all in Tears, he has now very little regard to me; yet he has gain'd what he aim'd at, and 'tis that which almost put's me into Despair. I shall never see again that Conquerour, who has triumph'd over my weakness in spite of all the Re­sistance I was able to make; I was too too soon overcome by his flattering Promises. Good Hea­vens! you that know my disgrace, Revenge me upon this perfidious Man. Madam, reply'd Medina, if I shou'd tell you, that these things ought to have been consider'd before you entertain'd the Marshal so far, I shall perhaps loose some part of the advantage of comforting you, wherefore I think the best Office I can do you at this time, is to desire you to take comfort, to forget what is pass'd, and to be more Circumspect for the future. Donna Olympia so well approv'd the Advice given her by her Kinswoman, that some time after, as we have been since inform'd, she threw her self into a Nunnery of the Fe­male Converts, where she spends the remain­der of her Life-time in doing of Penance; eating of nothing but wild Roots, and Drink­ing nothing but fair Water, in Atonement of her former sensual Pleasures: And Medina fol­low'd her Example, to mortifie herself, for [Page 57] some former Love-Intreagues in France and Spain. Thus we are come to the conclusion of the History of our two Spanish Lady's.

'Tis now time to return to our Marshal, who has not been Idle in Germany; having already found out a new Mistress, whose Charms have render'd him her Captive. Here you must not imagine that 'twas a na­tive of that Country, who was so dexterous in engaging his Heart: no, they are very rarely so ingenious at Love-Intrea­gues in those Parts, being somewhat unac­quainted with such languishing desires, which are the constant attendants of Lovers. The Beauty which Captivated him, was a cer­tain English Gentlewoman, whom chance had brought to the same Inn where he Lodg'd. This Lady whom we will call my Lady Stone, was the Wife of a certain Irish Gentleman, who being accus'd of High-Treason, was forc'd to quit England, and finding no redress in his Affairs, had sought for a Sanctuary in Germany, as his Wife was inform'd; who had undertaken this Journey, in hopes to find him out there; but not having got any farther Information concerning him, notwithstanding her utmost endeavours, was extremely uneasie in the Inn where she Lodg'd, for fear that she shou'd not be able to learn any news relat­ing to her ungrateful Husband, who had [Page 58] left her without giving her the least notice, since his departure, of the place of his Abode. The Marshal, who was inform'd before hand of her Circumstances, shew'd her all the respect due to a Lady of her Quality and Merits, who labour'd under great afflictions. It will not be a-miss here to give you a Character of this English Lady. She was most delicately shap'd, very cour­teous and affable in all her Behaviour. Her Hair was Black, her Complexion very fair, and her Skin very smooth; her Eyes very bright and sparkling; she had the prettiest Mouth in the World, and she laugh'd most charmingly: As for her Teeth, they were none of the best; this being a general de­fect among the Lady's of this Country, who commonly spoil 'em with eating Sweet-meats too plentifully. She had besides thisa, certain Majestick Air, which was surprising at first sight, tho' she was extremely Obliging and Courteous in Conversation. Her Neck and Hands were very fair and plump, and to comprehend all in a few words, she appear'd so adoreable to our Marshal, that he be­came strongly enamour'd with her Beauty. The first Proof he gave her of his Love, was one Morning, when he found her all in despair in her Chamber; she had torn her Hair, and was just ready to make a way with her self. If in any other Country [Page 59] but England a Woman shou'd commit these extravagancies, she wou'd be thought only fit for a Mad-House. But it is to be con­sider'd that in no other place in the World these violent attempts are so frequently put in Execution as there. I don't know what hard sentiments they have concerning themselves, but this is certain, that for a small disappointment, 'tis often known that they Hang, Poyson, or Pistol themselves without any sense of thir crime. Our Gene­ral being touch'd as much with compassion as with Love, threw himself ather Feet, entreat­ing her to tell him the truecauseof that afflicti­on, which had inspir'd her with so desperate a Resolution, the mark's of which plainly ap­pear'd in her Countenance. The English Lady being somewhat of a haughty temper, cou'd at first scarce resolve to discover the Circum­stances of her Affairs to Monsieur de Bouf­fflers, looking upon it as a thing very unbe­coming herself, and as somewhat which cou'd not but most sensibly affect her Ho­nour: Nevertheless, considering with her self in what a generous and obliging manner she was treated by the Marshal, she at last determin'd to make an ingenuous Confession in these Words: Is it possible, Sir, that my ill Fortune shou'd drive me to this point of Extre­mity, in which you see me at present: My Hus­band, who scarce deserves that name, having [Page 60] left me without Mony, and without any prospect of receiving assistance from any Person? I have been for some time in this Inn, with my Valet du Chambre, and my waiting Woman; and besides other Necessaries requisite for a Person of my Quality; I have not wherewithal to satisfy my Host, whom I cannot expect to entertain me Gra­tis, I am quite beyond all Patience, to see my self reduc'd to this extremity, by the neglect of an ill Husband, who—She cou'd not proceed, the Tears which trickl'd down her Beautiful Cheeks, having quite stopt her Speech. The Marshal was so touch'd with compassion, that immediately he offer'd her his Purse, desiring her to make use of it, as if it were her own; and to shew her that his Words were not bare Compliments, as 'tis the com­mon Custom of a great many, but that his Offers were real, he went immediately down to the Host, whom he ask'd how much that English Lady who with her Servants Lodg'd in his House, was indebted to him. The Inn-holder having brought him her Bill, he immediately pay'd him what he deman­ded; telling him, that he had receiv'd Orders from her Husband Mr. Stone, to pay him his Mony, and to engage his Word for what ever she shou'd have occasion for in his House, for the future. In a few Moments after, Monsieur de Boufflers sent to his new Mistress a Purse full of Lovis's d'or, Em­broider'd [Page 61] with fine Pearls on both sides, and trimm'd with Ribonds of all sorts of Colours, to supply her self with such little Necessaries as she might have occasion for at that time. The Marshal discovering in this fair Lady every day new charms, was extremely glad of this Opportunity, hoping that his Libe­rality wou'd be repaid him in another Coin, that is to say, by his Mistresses Favours. Is it possible, said he to himself, that any Hus­band can be so unworthy, thus to abandon a Per­son of her merit, and who is so Charming and Amiable in outward appearance? Truly I don't know what may be in the bottom of this matter, which perhaps is past my finding out; if she shou'd perhaps, continu'd he with a Smile, have some resemblance to my Spanish Mistress, what a dis­appointment wou'd that be? but let it be as it will, I don't repent of having given her some assistance, at a time when she was just at the point of Despair; I have at least done a work of Charity, if her Charms shou'd not prove ans­werable to my expectation. If Monsieur de Boufflers was thus employ'd in reasoning with himself, my Lady Stone did make no less Re­flections upon the Liberality, which she had receiv'd from an Officer, whom she did not know, before she had seen him in the same Place where she Lodg'd. Oh! cry'd she, being all alone in her Chamber. I insensibly engage my self to I know not whom: Perhaps this Stran­ger [Page 62] will scarce be contented with a bare Acknow­ledgement; he appears to me so Passionate, that I have all the reason to believe he aims at no less than my Heart. Without this prospect, which is natural to all Men; what cou'd have induc'd him to shew his Generosity to me? Oh cruel Husband, cry'd this Lady sighing; If I part with something which only belongs to you a­lone, remember that you your self are the cause of it: For when I reflect upon your Behaviour towards me, I find a strong Inclination in me to grant it. I beseech thee good God, to give me Vertue and Strength enough to resist so pow­erful a Temptation. I foresee by some secret Instinct, that I shall not be able to come off a Conquerour in this Engagement. My Lady Stone was thus Tormenting her self, when the Marshal came into the same Room, where she was, and after having pay'd his respects and Saluted her, he set himself down by her; What is it Madam said he, that occasions all these troubles: Why do you strive to render your self unfortunate in Reflecting too much upon your present Condition? Don't let the Spring-season of your Life pass away without Plea­sure, so charming a Person as you ought to be made sensible of the satisfaction, which attends the full enjoyment of the happy Minute. If you have the least inclination to Love, I know a certain Gentle­man so violently charm'd with your engaging Air, that he declares he loves you more than his own [Page 63] Life. And how come you to know this, ans­wer'd the Lady, in a Melancholy Tone, are you the Guardian of this Gentleman's Heart? Yes Madam, reply'd the Marshal with a very Passionate look, I know him as well as my own self, and I will be answerable for his Passion and Constancy, and that he shall protest to you that he will Love you as long as he lives. You surprise me Sir, reply'd the fair Lady, pray tell me who is this Gentleman, that has such advantageous Thoughts of me, do I not know him? Madam, reply'd the Marshal, casting on her a very amourous look; He is not un­known to you, 'tis the same whom you see before you.

This Declaration of the Marshal's, hav­ing put our English Lady to the blush, he continu'd to make to her all the most sin­cere Protestations of a violent Passion, ac­cording to the Custom of most Men, at the first rise of their Love. The Marshal was so extremely delighted with his grow­ing Passion, that he protested with a Thou­sand Oaths at the Feet of his Mistress, that he Passionately lov'd her; that he ador'd her; that he was Inchanted by her power­full Charms, and a Thousand such like ex­travagant Expressions. Is it posible, reply'd my Lady Stone coldly, that you shou'd Love me so much as you pretend you do? May one re­ly upon your Words? Commonly Persons of your [Page 64] Character are in Love with most Women, more out of a Principle of Civility than Love. But, continu'd she, what is it that I say, I cannot but be perswaded that you have some kindness for me, since you have dealt so ge­nerously with me; I will take it then for gran­ted, it will serve at least to please my Fancy; What advantage cou'd you purpose to your self in deceiving an unfortunate and afflicted Person, who desires nothing but Compassion. Oh Ma­dam! reply'd the Marshal, squeezing her fair Hands between his own. 'Tis I that rather stand in need of Compassion; my Love encreases every Moment, and if you don't find out a Remedy to appease my pain, I am infallibly undone. Sir, reply'd the Lady Smiling, I have a certain Chamber-Maid belonging to me, who has a Soveraign Antidote against Love; I'll engage as soon as you do but look upon her you'll be cur'd of your Distemper. O Madam! cry'd the Marshal being impatient to see her, pray let her come, that she may apply somewhat to asswage my Pain. The Plaister which she uses reply'd the English Lady, facetiously, is very large, it will cover your whole Body. This is a Plaister for the Devil, said he, but pray let us see it, he had no sooner spoke these Words, but the Lady call'd Betty, which was the name of her Chamber-Maid, who was so ugly that she was only fit to make a Bugg-bear to frighten Children withal. [Page 65] Her Mouth was so big that it reach'd from one Ear to the other; her Nose was very small; her Fore-head very low and flat; her Eyes vastly large; her Hair and the grain of her Skin very course, if you touch'd her she felt like a Nutmeg grater; besides that she was as Black as a Tawny-moor, and her shape was all awry: But notwithstanding all this, she had a most admirable Head-piece, having a ready and well refin'd Wit, and was most excellent at Repartees. When one heard her talk, she made an ample a­mends for the Deformity of her Body and Face; and 'twas by this means that she insinu­ated herself into the favour of her Mistress, who had a particular kindness for her. The Marshal, at first sight of her, went two or three steps backwards, on purpose to shew his surprise. This young Woman, who as we have already intimated, had a very ready Wit, and was well acquainted with this sort of Divertisements, was not at all balk'd at it, but on the contrary, told the Marshal very briskly; that this was a certain Proof of her Merit, because she had been powerful enough to cause so sudden an Emotion in a Person so brave and Galiant as the Marshal. 'Tis very true Mi­stress, reply'd Monsieur de Boufflers, pray come nearer to me, and make me sensible of your Re­medy against Love, which your Lady has told me, that you always carry about you. Alass! [Page 66] reply'd Betty with a Smile, Sir my charms are not powerful enough to cure you of your Love, I want that advantage, except in seeing me so ill shap'd and so ugly, you might take a general antipathy against Women: They are not all of 'em so ugly nor so ill shap'd, reply'd her Mistress, as thou art Betty, wherefore I don't believe that the Marshal is resolv'd as yet to renounce his Passion for the fair Sex. I conjecture I know a certain Person in the World, whom he does not altogether look upon with an indifferent Eye. And so do I, reply'd Betty laughing: For that I know it may be your own self, it being very likely that the Marshal is not insensible of your Charms. You jeer me, reply'd Madam Stone pleasantly; what do you say to the cajoleing Language of my Maid, said she to the Mar­shal, I say Madam, reply'd he, that she is ab­solutely in the right on't, and that she has spoke nothing but what is due to so adorable and so amiable a Person as your self. Alass! I am only too well convinc'd of the truth of it, my Heart having been Wounded by your irresistible Charms. O Sir, reply'd Madam Stone carelesly, why then don't you wear it in a Scarff? I am afraid this poor Heart of yours is so mangl'd ever since you first saw me, that it will not hold long toge­ther. How can it be otherwise, Madam, ans­wer'd Betty, who was very smart upon the Marshal, so that he was extremely taken with her Conversation.

[Page 67] They were about to continue their dis­course, when Dame Helenemberg the Mi­stress of the House came in to tell her Guests that in the Evening there wou'd be a Ball at the House of the Bailiff of the Town. The Marshal knew so well how to perswade my Lady Stone to go thither with him, that she easily granted his Request, according to the Inclinations of the English Women, who are naturally addicted to Pleasure. This German Ball was compos'd of the chief Magistrates of the Place, who after they had Eat and Drunk very plentifully, and their Musick, (which was rather con­fus'd Noise, than any thing relating to Harmony) having begun to Play, they danc'd according to their own Country-Fashion, with their Wives and Daughters. The Marshal being somewhat concern'd, imme­diately departed, and at his return brought along with him some Haut-bois and Pipers belonging to the French Regiments there­abouts, who play'd very sweetly, and con­ducted him and his Mistress to the Ball, where they danc'd with so admirable an Air, that the whole Company stood amaz'd at the graceful performance of these two un­known Persons. Dame Helenemberg, who had squeez'd her self up in some corner, for fear of being known, did rub her Hands for joy, being not a little Proud, that she had [Page 68] the good Fortune to entertain such Guests in her House. At last the Ball being ended the Turn-Spits, as I suppose, all on a sudden made such a clattering noise amidst the Ket­tles and Frying-Pans, and with the Fire Sho­vels, Tongs and other Kitchen-Instruments, that the Marshal and his Lady being fright­ed at it, got away as fast as they cou'd to their own Lodgings. It was about four a Clock in the Morning, when they return'd from the Ball; and our Lovers beginning now by degrees to be more and more sensi­ble of the Pleasures of their growing Love, resolv'd not to go to Bed that Night, but to pass it away in those amourous Prote­stations, which are usually the effects of a most tender Passion. The Marshal, who wou'd fain in some measure have moderated the Vehemency of his Love, found his en­deavours so weak, and his Mistress's Charms so engaging and powerful, that he was con­strain'd absolutely to give way to his Passion. He thought her at that time more charming than ever, which serv'd for nothing else but to render him more unfortunate, and to entangle him the more in a Passion, which it wou'd not be easie for him to shake off so soon. He grew at last Melancholy to that degree, that he avoided all manner of civil Society and Conversation.

One day the Lady having reprehended [Page 69] him for his ill Humour, telling him that he was strangely alter'd in his Temper, from what she had known him before: Alass! Ma­dam, said he, what good can you expect from the presence of a Man-hater, who thinks the World too little for him to range in? The Mar­shals de Crequi and de Navaille did also se­veral times check him upon account of his cloudy Temper, without knowing the true cause of it, so that the Marshal de Boufflers at last beginning to grow weary of leading such a disconsolate course of Life, and having communicated his Thoughts to the Count de Choiseul, he was soon reliev'd by his good Advice. How, said he, my Friend, is it come to that pass with you, that you cannot make a Woman Love you, for whom you have a Pas­sion? You may now esteem your self a sorry Fel­low indeed. For my part, reply'd the Mar­shal, striking with his Hat upon the Table, I know not what I am my self, yet I am sure I am not the same I us'd to be: I durst not so much as sue for a Favour from the Lady I Love. I cannot believe but that she has bewitch'd me to be silent, and to bear every thing with an aw­ful Respect. These are the true marks, reply'd the Count, of a Man in Love: But why shou'd you complain, since you have ask'd nothing of your Mistress, and that you have no reason to ac­cuse her of being Insensible, Cruel or Indifferent. Go, go, take my advice, lay aside this dull way [Page 70] of Courtship, and push on your Point as close as you can: The English Ladies are not so averse to the French as you imagine. The Marshal cou'd not forbear laughing at the Count's jolly Humour, who advis'd him to make use of his middle Point to advance his Amourous Design, Courage, Courage my dear Friend, cry'd the Count, clapping him upon the Shoulder; 'tis a very good sign when a Love Sick Person begins to laugh; I'll engage, that before you are a Weak older, you'll be cur'd of your Distemper: It seems, that when we disclose our Heart to a Friend, we share with him one half of our troubles. This was very observable in the Marshal, who after having freely deliver'd his Mind to the Count his Friend, found himself half cur'd of his Pain; having therefore embrac'd and return'd him a thousand thanks for his good Counsel he went to renew his Visit at my Lady Stone's, who had been very uneasie during his absence.

What have I done to you my dear Marshal, said she, that you thus fly from me as you do; it seems as if I were become your Enemy? ‘Tru­ly’ Madam, answer'd he, looking upon her with a languishing Eye, ‘in some measure you are so, having bereav'd my Heart of all its Repose and Tranquillity; ever since I had the first sight of you, I am not the same Person I was wont to be; I have given you [Page 71] some hints of my Passion, but I am apt to believe you scarce ever thought of it since.’ More than you think for, Sir, re­ply'd she, ‘I love you better than you can imagine.’ 'Twas not without some Confu­sion that she spoke these Words, but ima­gining that he had not very well apprehen­ded her meaning, she repeated 'em several times very pleasantly. The Marshal, who understands a little of most Languages, es­pecially as to Love-Terms, fell into an Ex­tasy of Joy upon hearing these charming Words, which sounded very prettily in Eng­lish from his fair Lady's Mouth. She having several times after repeated these Words, I Love you, I Love you; the Marshal did no longer question his own happiness, and having embrac'd his charming Mistress, he gave her fresh assurances of the violence of his Passion, which he told her was rais'd to that height that it must prove mortal to him, except she wou'd vouchsase to prevent it. ‘Is it possible, Divine Creature, said he, that at that moment, when I look upon you, there shou'd be any thing wanting to accomplish my Felicity? Alass! flattering Fancies! deceitful Imaginations! I am very sensible what it is that is wanting to compleat my happiness, 'tis that you my incomparable Fair, wou'd Love me as well as I do you.’ I will Sir, I will from [Page 72] the very bottom of my Heart, answer'd she. Now I leave it to the Reader's Judg­ment, to imagine what effects these Words proceeding from the Mouth of his most ador'd Mistress, had upon the Marshal: Indeed he was quite transported beyond himself, he Kiss'd her a thousand times, and that so close as if he were in a Trance. The English Lady giving him some weak Repulses; they serv'd only to add Fuel to his Fire, and to inflame his Passion, and not being able to contain himself any longer; he with the con­sent of his Fair One, who was as hard put to it as himself to preserve her Honour, took a walk in an adjacent Wood. When she found her self alone, ‘I expose my self to no small danger, said she, in enter­taining a Person who appears very dan­gerous to a tender Heart. Alass Heavens! I am only too sensible of his lovely Accom­plishments, he has somewhat so charming in him, that my Liberty is in great dan­ger of suffering Ship-wrack. This Con­querour will in time Triumph over my Weakness, if I don't oppose him with all my Strength.’ Having made these Reflecti­ons, which her almost dying Vertue did in­spire her withal; she took her Pen, and having understood by a certain Friend, whō was going into Swisserland, that her Hus­band had been seen in that Country, she wrote him these following Lines:

No sooner had she dispatch'd this Letter, but she went to take the Air in an adjacent Forest, where she knew that the Marshal was gone before accompany'd only with his Gentleman. Sympathy, which so strange­ly guides Lovers in their Actions, had soon drawn the Marshal to the same Place [Page 75] where she had set herself down; thus musing upon her amourous Adventure; and espy­ing a Flock of Sheep feeding not far off, she cou'd not forbear saying, (as if she en­vy'd their happiness) ‘O you innocent Crea­tures, how happy are you! You feed here without care and Anxiety; those Passions which continually afflict us Rational Crea­tures, never disturb your Tranquillity; you follow the instincts of Nature, with­out either Crime or Punishment: Your desires never exceed the bounds prescrib'd by Nature: Love, which never disturbs your contented Mind, follows among you its own Laws, O you Peaceable Creatures! You are more happy than we Mortals.’ Monsieur de Boufflers, who had hid himself behind some Trees, over-heard all that she said, agreeably surprising her. Oh! Sir, cry'd she blushing, who thought to have found you here? You are so dextrous at a Sur­prise when least expected, and especially when one is employ'd in such matters as ought to be kept from your Knowledge. I was just admiring the Sweetness and Tranquillity which these Creatures enjoy, nothing vexes 'em, nothing disturbs 'em. Alass! why was not I made like them? Madam, said the Marshal, it lies in your own Power to enjoy the same Tranquillity; you may make your self happy whenever you please, and all such of your Friends, upon whom you shall vouch [Page 76] safe to bestow your Favours. Do but Love, do but Love, continu'd he, this is the only Hap­piness of Life. He wou'd have proceeded in his discourse, but our English Lady having made signs to him, that her Gentleman, who fol­low'd her close, understood a little French, the Marshal did not enlarge any further upon this Subject; and tho' their Conference last­ed somewhat longer, they where wholly employ'd in discoursing about indifferent matters. Thus as the Marshal and the La­dy were walking along with a slow Pace, they found themselves insensibly got very far into the Wood, when they espy'd a­sar off a kind of Cottage thatch'd with Straw and very neatly Built; insomuch that their Curiosity inspir'd 'em with a desire to know who it shou'd be that dwelt in so solitary a Place, therefore my Lady Stone sent Mr. Game, her Gentleman to informe himself of it: Upon his Return, he told our Lo­vers that this little House belong'd to a cer­tain honest old Man, aged above a Hun­dred and Twelve Years, and that he had with him one of the most Beautiful Crea­tures in the World, which he said was his Daughter. This News seeming somewhat sur­prising the English Lady, she enjoyn'd her Gen­tleman to return to the same Place, on pur­pose to ask him how old he might be when he begot this Daughter, and to make some [Page 77] other particular Enquiries concerning the whole course of his Life. While the Gen­tleman was gone to execute his Mistresses Commands, she had set her self under a Tree, where she expected his return: The Marshal having here Prostrated himself at the Feet of his Goddess, began to renew his former Protestations. Hold your Tongue you pratling Fool, said she, giving him a gentle blow upon one Cheek; which be­ing done with a very gallant Air, it so sensibly touch'd the Marshal, that he was ready to expire for Joy. In the mean time Mr. Game being return'd drew near and told 'em, that the Country-Man re­fus'd to answer his Questions, imagining that he was come to play upon him, and that he had shut himself up in his Hutch. Let us go Madam, said the Marshal ri­sing from his Seat, and make him open the Door, that we may have the Satisfaction to see that handsome Damsel, whose Beauty has sur­pris'd Mr. Game. What reason is there re­ply'd my Lady Stone, (being jealous that this Damsel might surpass her in Beauty) ‘to disturb these poor People in their peace­able Enjoyment? come let us go Home to our own Lodgings.’ The Marshal, who always shews the utmost Complaisance to Lady's, was unwilling to contradict his Mi­stress, tho' he had a great mind to see this [Page 78] Country-Beauty, therefore he thought it most convenient to deferr his Curiosity till a more favourable Opportunity, when he shou'd be alone. Having reconducted the Lady to her Lodgings, the remainder of the Day was spent in playing at Cards, and such sort of Sports. Neither was Love laid aside, but had a share in the Pas­time, and our Marshal wou'd have been very willing to play another Game, but he cou'd not prevail at that time.

It is scarce to be imagin'd how this Eng­lish Lady, who saw herself reduc'd to the utmost extremity, cou'd defend her Ho­nour with so much bravery. She endea­vour'd to detain her Lover with fair Words from one Day to another, in hopes that her Husband in the mean time might come to assist her in this Critical Conjuncture: Not but that she had a very favourable Opinion of the Marshal, whom she lov'd extremely, nay, even to that degree, that she herself despair'd of resisting his Charms much longer. For he that is once Master of the Heart of a Lady, need not much question all the rest Our present Narra­tive will furnish us with Examples of this nature. But let us return to our General, who notwithstanding this praeengagement, went in search of a new Passion. He cou'd not forget what he had heard the other day [Page 79] in the Wood concerning the Country-Dam­sel, whom he had not as yet seen, except it were in the Idea of his own Fancy, which ap­pear'd to him very pleasing; therefore he arose one Morning early with the Sun, and re­pair'd to the Wood, without letting any one know his Design, steering his Course directly towards the Cottage, where he found the old Man and his Daughter busie in making your Basket-work Umbrello's, by which they got their Lively-hood; who seem'd to be much surpris'd at the sight of him. The Marshal was no less amaz'd at them; for he protested some hours after, that tho' he had Travell'd over a great part of the World, he had never in all his Life-time met with any thing com­parable to this Country-Beauty. He took particular notice of the exact features of her Face, her delicate shape, very propor­tionable to the size of her Limbs, which were not as yet come to their full growth and perfection; she then not having attain'd to above Sixteen or Eighteen years of Age: The whole Ornament of her Body being a small Jacket of pure white Linnen. The Marshal wou'd have enter'd into dis­course with her, but he found her so Savage and ill Humour'd, that she flew away from him directly into her Cottage. In the mean while her Father took the Liberty to [Page 80] tell him in the German Tongue, that he had best go about his business, or else he wou'd not long be pleas'd with his Entertain­ment. The Marshal seeing himself threatn'd by a plain Country-Fellow (who by rea­son of his Skill in Magical Arts, was not so ignorant as he imagin'd) despising his threats drew his Sword at him, telling him, you old Sorcerer, I'll make you know, at least to let me see your fair Daughter: He did not believe that he had call'd him by his right Name, but was soon con­vinc'd of the Truth of it; for in an in­stant, he saw three or four great black Fellows, like so many Infernal Fiends fall upon him, sometimes pulling him by the Nose, which they Pinch'd soundly, some­times by the Ears, which they stretch'd with such a force, as if they wou'd have pull'd 'em off. This Game being over, which was nothing to what was to come, they drew him up into the Air, and with his own Sword gave him innumerable Blows; from hence they convey'd him quite to the other end of the Forest, upon a preci­pice surrounded with Water: The Marshal as brave as he is, was heartily afraid that these Devils wou'd have thrown him down head-long from thence into the Pond, but it seems it was not his fate to be Drown'd. At last, after he had been well drub'd [Page 81] again, they threw his Sword at his Head and so left him. The Marshal return'd as fast as he was able to his Lodgings, where he did not speak so much as one Word of his Adventure, but he was forc'd to keep his Bed for several Days, and Champonniere his Valet du Chambre was fain to bath his Limbs, (which were extremely batter'd) with Spirit of Wine, and Spanish Soap. My Lady Stone not being able to guess at the cause of this sudden Distemper of her Lover, was almost out of her Wits; she came every Day to his Bed-side, to shew him her Affection, and how much concern'd she was for his Ilness: The Mar­shal on the other hand, acknowledg'd her Civilities in the most Obliging manner in the World. As soon as he was recover'd, he did not fail to give her the same De­monstrations of his Love as before, never­theless she soon perceiv'd that the vehemen­cy of his Passion was somewhat abated. The Beautiful Country-Damsel whom he had seen in the Wood, notwithstanding the ill Treatment he had receiv'd, had so enchanted him, that his Thoughts cou'd not be em­ploy'd any where else, My Lady Stone appear'd much dissatisfy'd at his Shyness, not knowing unto what cause to attribute this indifferency. Shou'd it not perhaps be, said she to her self, because I have deny'd him [Page 82] those Favours which he su'd for so earnestly? But how cou'd I do otherwise? Why shou'd I at once betray my Vertue and my Husband, to sa­tisfy the Brutish inclinations of a Man, who perhaps when he has obtain'd his aim, will make me a Laughing Stock to his Companions? No, No, I'll never consent to it. Not but that my Husband, who has play'd me such a prank so lately, deserves it very well; but I am re­solv'd to subdue my Passion, for my own satis­faction's sake, and not to loose the pleasure of Triumphing over all those flattering Temptations which daily lye in my way. Nevertheless I must own, that I have vast Obligations to the Mar­shal, who did so generously assist me when I was in extremity: a bare acknowledgment will be scarce a sufficient Recompence for his Liberality. neither am I ignorant that all Men are guided by Interest, and that they never oblige a Wo­man without a Prospect of Reward. Thus our beautiful English Lady was reasoning with her self, when Monsieur de Boufflers (who was by this time pretty well tir'd with the thoughts of his Country-Beauty) surpris'd her upon a sudden: What is it Madam, said he, that disturbs your Mind, what is it that makes you so pensive? Truly Sir, reply'd the Lady not without some distur­bance, I am so, and that too upon very good Grounds: For is it not cause enough of trouble to see my self look'd upon by you with all the indif­ferency [Page 83] imaginable, even at the same time when I can hear no News from my Husband? Don't you think that all this is sufficient to over­whelm me with Grief. Alass! Sir, to my Misfortune I have plac'd you too near my Heart. She cou'd not proceed without shedding some Tears, which very sensibly affected the Marshal, who very dextrously attributed the effects of his Discontent and Indifferen­cy to her Shyness; telling her that it was because she had set light by his Passion. Indeed, reply'd she, ‘I might easily Conjecture this to be the true cause of your indifferency; but can you imagine Sir, that without a great deal of trouble we can resolve to grant your Sex those Favours, which you aim at. I am apt to believe you say right, Madam,’ answer'd the Marshal, ‘but if a Woman meets with one whom she knows to be a Person of Honour and Discretion, what has she to fear? As for my own part, continu'd she, I wou'd ra­ther a Thousand times fall upon the point of my own Sword, than brag of a Fa­vour receiv'd from a Lady. He must needs be destitute both of Honour and Integrity that does it. If this be the only Scruple remaining, which troubles you, I can quickly free you from it, by assuring you that as to this particular I am invinci­ble: Love me therefore my Dearest, and [Page 84] don't any longer refuse to give me that most precious Pledge of your Love, which I beg of you.’ The Marshal express'd these words in so Passionate a manner, that even at that very Moment the Lady was overcome. I have understood since, that our General, who never attacks any Place with­out success; luckily hit at that time on the very Critical Minute, and he made use of it with discretion, like a Man of Ho­nour, this is to say, without boasting of it, as a great many Gentlemen do, when they meet with a good chance. The satis­faction which the Marshal receiv'd in the enjoyment of this English Lady, far surpas­sed what he had from his Spanish Mistress at Puicerda. He continu'd his amourous Engagements for some time with the latter, as a Person of much Honour and Bravery; till being order'd to some Warlike Expe­dition, he was fain to resolve to quit his Mistress. While these two Lovers were la­menting that cruel separation which was so near at Hand; the Husband of this fair English Lady, having receiv'd her Letter, and fearing not without Reason, that a Coronet was preparing for his Head, had made all the speed he cou'd to come in­to Germany. The Marshal was over-joy'd at the News, finding his Mistress to grow somewhat burdensome to his Purse, be. [Page 85] sides that he was oblig'd to pay her more than ordinary respect, in regard of her Quality.

Mr. Stone was extremely well satisfy'd to meet his Wife, whom he believ'd to have been very faithful to him; but poor Man, he was very much mistaken, he must have come a little sooner, if he wou'd have pre­vented her from entring him in the Cuck­old's Order. However, matters pass'd be­tween 'em with a great deal of Love and Amity. The Marshal treated the English Gentleman no otherwise than his Friend, assuring him by several Oaths that he wou'd be ready to serve him, whenever any Occasion shou'd present it self. But the Lady was greatly afflicted at the Approach­ing departure of her Lover, who was so complaisant to stay with her as long as possibly he cou'd, even some time beyond his Orders, during which, they let slip no opportunity to strengthen the good Hus­band's Horns, who was not sensible of what pains they took for him, or if he was, did conceal his Resentment. However, one Evening, after the Marshal was just gone out of her Appartment, he cou'd not forbear telling her, that he thought she had a little too much kindness for the Marshal. What wou'd'st thou have me do my Dear, reply'd she, you know what vast [Page 86] Obligations I have receiv'd from him; he has dealt so generously with me, that 'tis impossible for me to forget it as long as I live. Alass! if it had not been for him, I had not been now among the Living. This was sufficient to perswade the poor English Gentleman, that all the kindnesses which she had shewn him, were the bare effects of Gratitude. At last Monsieur Boufflers was forc'd to leave his Post, and to depart conformably to the positive Orders of the Count de Montal. I will not undertake here to give you a Re­lation of what pass'd in the Field during the rest of the Campaign, this not being my present design, but I shall rather follow the natural course of our History, which will lead us to some new Love-Intreagues of our General; who being return'd after the Campaign was finish'd, to Paris, soon provided for himself a new Mistress: This was a young Damsel, the Daughter of a certain rich Merchant, whom he saw one Morning going to Mass at Clermont, where he went to hear a Sermon preach'd by a Je­suit, who contrary to the Custom of his So­ciety, was at that time to treat of pure Mo­rality. Tho' the Marshal seem'd to be very attentive to the Doctrine preach'd by this Jesuit, who discours'd like a very good Christian, yet Love did not cease to insinuate it self into his Heart, and to make [Page 87] him sensible of its Force. Mademoiselle Landy was the name of this Beauty, that had charm'd him at Church: She wore that day upon her Head one of your little black Feather-Caps, that were then in Fa­shion, which was so becoming to her, that tho' she was otherwise but an indifferent Beauty, yet the Marshal cou'd scarce keep his Eyes from her. She soon perceiv'd it, and knowing her self to be in a Place, where every thing ought to be done with a great deal of Modesty, she pull'd her Hood somewhat lower over her Face. Sermon being ended, the Marshal took care to go out with her, and with a very gallant Air to ask her, if she wou'd not allow him the Honour to wait upon her to her House. This young Gentle­woman who was very well bred, and did not want Wit, quickly perceiving by his Behaviour that he was not a Man to be despis'd, accepted of his Civility; nay, seem'd well pleas'd to be Conducted home by so gallant a Gentleman.

The next day, the Marshal made her a Visit; he found her in her Chamber, where she was playing very Sweetly and Charmingly upon the Lute. The sweet­ness of her Voice and the skill with which she express'd her Words to Admiration, were such Powerful Charms to him, that [Page 88] he seem'd to be quite Enchanted. But he was forc'd to carry on this Love-intrea­gue with a great deal of Precaution; for her Father and Mother were Persons of good Repute, whose chief aim was to preferr their only Daughter to some good Match or another. They flatter'd them­selves for some time with the hopes that Monsieur de Boufflers visited their Daughter upon this account, but they were much mistaken, for his only business was to di­vert himself, and to spend his leisure-time in amourous Adventures. Monsieur Landy began at last to discover his Design, and coming one day from the Exchange, met with the Marshal de Boufflers upon his Knees before his Daughter, Kissing her Hands: Upon his departure, he check'd her very severely, and in a Week after sent her to a Nunnery. The Marshal having perceiv'd that he was the cause that the Father had so unkindly treated his Daughter, gave him a Visit on purpose to upbraid him with his severity. Will you marry her Sir, said the Merchant briskly to Monsieur Boufflers, if you will, I'll give her Thirty or Forty Thou­sand Crowns, ready Mony for her Portion. No Sir, reply'd Monsieur Boufflers, my intent is not as yet to entangle my self in Wedlock; all that I did, was only to pass away some Melancholy hours in admiring those perfections, which I found in [Page 89] her. You speak like a Gentleman, said Mon­sieur Landy smiling, You have tht Opera and Play-House in this Town, which I shou'd think might be sufficient to divert you, without haun­ting our Houses, on purpose to Debauch our Daughters. I have found my Daughter Made­lon quite alter'd from what she was wont to be, since she has convers'd with you. Gentle­men of your Kidney have a strange Influence over such young Maidens, which is not much admir'd among us Citizens: We are not very am­bitious of having 'em turn Wanton or Impudent House-wives: We willingly leave these Qualificati­ons to your Lady's of Pleasure, who don't think it any considerable Crime to Cuckold their Husband's. You are not in the wrong of it, Sir, reply'd the Marshal with a Smile, to take care of your Pullets, lest such Game-Cock's as we shou'd Sport with 'em; I do be­lieve we shou'd be apt to teach 'em another sort of Game; but at the same time you treat your Daughter with too much Rigour, thus to thrust her into a Nunnery: As for my own part, I'll swear to you by St. Urbot, that I never spoke twice of Love to her. Don't you know Sir, reply'd the Merchant, that St. Urbot is the Patron of all Treacherous and Perjur'd Persons, and what wonder is it, if you Soldiers chuse him to be your Protector? You take us Soldiers then to be Devilish strange Creatures, my Friend, answer'd the Mar­shal, [Page 90] but I wou'd have you know, that if it were not for us, our Enemies wou'd have cropt your Ears long ago. No, no, Sir, you are mistaken, reply'd the Merchant, if matters were come to the utmost extremity, I believe we might be able to defend our selves as well as you. And continu'd he, Swearing a great Oath, and pointing at an old Cimetar that hung up in the Hall, with this very Wea­pon I dare undertake my self to dispatch Thirty Soldiers at one stroke. O brave Mer­chant, reply'd Monsieur de Boufflers, taking him by the Hand; I find now that you are a Man of Courage, if our Enemies shou'd ever come to enter France, we shall be sure not to want brave Soldiers to assist us upon all Occasions. I'll take care that his most Chris­tian Majesty shall be inform'd of your Bravery. O good Sir, answer'd Monsieur Landy, I hope you will not play me such a scurvy trick; to tell you the truth, I am the greatest Coward in the VVorld; if any one takes me at a word; my Courage and Riches both are only in Conceit. Indeed, reply'd the Marshal, you have done very well to undeceive me, for else I shou'd have certainly made you pass with the King both for a Croesus and a Caesar: See now, said the Merchant, how dangerous it is to have more Reputation than is convenient. 'Tis very probable that for this Opinion which the VVorld wou'd have conceiv'd both of [Page 91] my VVealth and Bravery (tho' far from Truth) I might have paid dearly one time or another. VVell Sir, reply'd the Marshal, you are the best Judge of both; Adieu, I leave you to your selves, but I wou'd have you shew your self more kind to your Daughter, who does not deserve this ill treatment from your Hands.

Monsieur de Boufflers, after having left the Merchant, return'd to his own House, to reflect upon his amourous Widdow hood which indeed was so burdensome to him, that he was not able to endure it long: He wanted some new Love-engagement, let it cost what it wou'd. Opportunity, which always was favourable to him, soon presented a Paramour to his view. This was the Wife of a certain Counsellour of Paris, one of the most beautiful Women in this famous City. Their first Acquaintance happen'd at the Play-House: He being then plac'd in one of the Boxes, this Lady who was in the Pitt, cast such killing looks at him, that he cou'd not forbear going in, and to set himself down by her. Be­ing desirous to be further acquainted with her, he sent his Servant for some dry Sweet-meats, China-Oranges and some Lemonade, which he presented to her: The fair Lady, who was accustom'd to re­ceive great Presents, did nevertheless not refuse the small ones; She accepted 'em [Page 92] very chearfully, returning a thousand thanks to the Marshal, who told her at the same time; Madam, ‘I am over-joy'd at this happy Hour, which has procur'd me the advantage of your Acquaintance, It is a considerable time since I have been ambitious of this Honour.’ How Sir, reply'd the Gentlewoman very Merrily, ‘cou'd you know me before I ever had an Opportunity of seeing you. Yes, Madam, reply'd he very seriously, it is certain that a great while ago I had the advantage of knowing you, but looking upon you as a Person of extraordinary Beauty and Merits, I never had the boldness to approach you.’ The Lady finding her self out-done in Compliments, turn'd the Discourse upon the Players, who Acted their part very well, so that she wou'd fain have made these the on­ly Subject of the present Conference, but Monsieur Boufflers interrupted her. ‘This is not, said he, the Point in Question, you don't answer me to what I spoke to you of, concerning the Honour I have obtain'd of your Acquaintance. Truly Sir, reply'd she very smartly, I know not well what answer to make, you tell me that you have known me for some time, and I was born in a Province which I believe you scarce ever saw in your Life-time, [Page 93] that is to say, Normandy; and hav­ing not been above two Months in Paris, I cannot take it any otherwise than that you are pleas'd to Jest with me. Oh! Madam, answer'd the Marshal, I rather wou'd be my own Executioner, than to conceal my sentiments on purpose to divert my self at the expence of so lovely a Creature. I shou'd be asham'd of such sinister Proceedings, neither can my Heart consent to so base an Action: Indeed it is not accustom'd to deal perfidiously with any Person, and much less with one who is so beautiful as you; it wou'd be easy for you to reduce its Inclina­tions to its Duty, if it were not in its own self capable to Act with sincerity, even in matters of the least Moment. Oh! that pretty loving Heart,’ cry'd the Lady, as if she had been surpris'd, ‘I be­lieve this to be the only one in the World. How! always true, always sin­cere, and without disguise; this is the first of this kind, that ever I heard of, and especially of so brave a Cavalier as you, who esteems it commonly no Sin to say to a Woman whatever you think fit, tho' you scarce ever retain any thought about it afterwards; much less that you shou'd have an inclination to performe it.’ Then you take me, Madam, said the [Page 94] Marshal looking earnestly upon her, for a ‘Dissembler and one that pretends to quite different things from what he thinks. Is this the Honour you are pleas'd to bes­tow upon me at first Sight? At this rate I have but little hopes of insinuating my self into your Favour; it is not likely that you will set much value upon a Man of such a Character. Notwithstan­ding all these infirmities, reply'd she, 'tis not impossible but that I might Love you, provided that—Oh! Madam,’ said the Marshal, being impatient to hear the rest, ‘don't stop here, else you'll leave me in the greatest Distraction imaginable.’

The Play being just ended, every one departed out of the House, and our Mar­shal, who had found this Lady's Conversa­tion very agreeable, wou'd needs conduct her Home, tho' she had in her Compa­ny one of her Brothers, who being a Student in the Jesuits College, was not very well acquainted with such amourous Repartees. He when he had his Sister alone, began to argue the Case very handsomely with her, telling her, ‘that she was now Marry'd, and therefore did not stand in need of a Gallant, and that if her Husband shou'd get the least knowledge of it, he wou'd be very angry with her;’ he told her besides, that your Soldiers of all Men [Page 95] ought not to be regarded, since their only aim was to impose upon the poor Wo­men, and afterwards to laugh at 'em. ‘Go, go, Brother, answer'd the Lady, with your Advice another way, you have too much Sense for your Age. They that will taste the pleasures of Love, must not argue so closely as you do. Monsieur Niguese my Husband is not like­ly to know any thing of our Intrigue; it wou'd be a hard Fate upon us poor Wo­men, if we were to employ all our time and pains only to please a Husband: For my part, this does not at all suit with my Humour.’ The more pity for you Sister, reply'd Monsieur Landrirette, (which was the name of the fair Lady's Brother) you'll ‘make but a very indifferent House-Wife if you don't intend to make that your chief business, as becomes an honest Gen­tlewoman, such a one as you have been Educated at home; what can,’ continu'd he, ‘be more Reproachful to a Woman that values her Reputation, than to hor­nify a poor harmless Man, who has not deserv'd it? And how dost thou know Landrirette, answer'd his Sister briskly that he does not deserve it, his Brother­in-Law I am sure has great Occasion for a lusty Pair to rouse up his dull Spi­rits, and to clear his cloudy Brains.’

[Page 96] ‘Truly Sister, reply'd Landrirette, you either intend to make sport with me, or else I believe you are not in your right Wits; if I thought you were in good earnest, I wou'd be the first that shou'd give notice of it to your Hus­band, who I don't question, wou'd find out a way to prevent his being dignify'd with Horns by you.’ Indeed, reply'd his Sister scoffingly, I don't know whether he ‘cou'd or not; a Woman is a strange sort of Creature to deal with, when she has once set her Resolution upon such a thing.’ I am only too apt to believe it, answer'd Landrirette, as he was going away, ‘but pray Sister be mindful of your Duty, and consider that you have a Husband, unto whom you are accountable for your Actions.’ Come hither you Block-head, reply'd Madam Niguese, calling back her Brother, ‘canst thou believe me to be such a Fool, as not to tread in my Mother's Foot-steps. I have heard my Parents say that when I was born, my Mother per­swaded my Father, who is as thou knowst a good honest Man, (I suppose thou dost apprehend my meaning) that she was big with me Ten or Eleven Months, which is contrary to the course of Na­ture: My Father, who was willing to be absolutely satisfy'd in this matter, hav­ing [Page 97] been absent these Eleven Months, took Counsel of a Physitian, who had had more than half a share in the be­getting me, whether it were possible for any Woman to go so long with Child: You may easily imagine that the Doctor told him it might very well be, partly out of self-interest, and partly mov'd by the entreaties of my Mother, who was sorely afraid that the Plot might be discover'd. If any Sinister Accident shou'd happen to me, I warrant you we shall go near to find out means to clear that mistake. Is this your way to rectify your Errors, reply'd her Brother, for shame blush at these Reproachful Designs; Adieu I cannot endure to hear you talk at this rate any longer.’

Her Brother having thus left her, she enter'd her Closet, where she began to Reflect upon her Passion, which she felt for Monsieur de Boufflers, who had appear'd in her Eyes the most charming and most accomplish'd Man in the World, and as she said to herself, who deserv'd to possess the Heart of a Beautiful Woman, ‘Oh! what a Satisfaction is it, said she, to make such a Conquest: His whole Air is charming, and I have observ'd that all his Actions tend to honourable Designs; but supposing he shou'd not be so nice [Page 98] in his Honour, as I cou'd wish for, what hazard can I run in the Case? I am a Marry'd Woman; if I were a young Maid, he might (after he had deceiv'd me) expose me to his Scorn, but as I am, I need not insist upon these Trifles, I shall enjoy a Thousand happy Minutes, without any farther charge to my self than a little Complaisance: As to the Horns, which my Husband is likely to get by the Bargain, I matter it not, knowing that he well deserves 'em; besides, that there are a great many others who think themselves fine Fellows, because they have the Honour to be admitted into that Order. 'Tis at present the grand Mode of Paris, a fine business indeed, to make so many Scruples about; is there not such a Multitude of Persons who are content to wear 'em, that their num­ber is not to be express'd?’ Monsieur Niguese her Husband coming into the Clo­set, prevented her from making any far­ther Reflections for that time, being come to lead her to Supper.

The next Day the Marshal de Boufflers, who seldom looses a prize, gave a visit to this Lady, who very joyfully bid him welcome to her House, and her Husband, who as I have told you before, was a Coun­sellour, desir'd our General to come into [Page 99] his Study, which was furnish'd all over with Baggs of Writings. Monsieur Boufflers was at that time actually engag'd in a Law suit, and having occasion for the ad­vice of a Lawyer, he deliver'd his Wri­tings to our Counsellor, who return'd him a Thousand Compliments for the Honour he did him, in making use of him in this Law Suit: He promis'd that he wou'd peruse 'em all over, and not be wanting in his endeavours to gain him the Cause. I shall think my self very much oblig'd to you, Sir, answer'd Monsieur de Boufflers, putting two or three Golden Lovises into his Hand: I will desire your Lady to put you in Mind of my business. She is your Servant Sir, re­ply'd the Counsellor, leading him into his Wifes Chamber, who had left 'em by themselves, not questioning but that the Marshal wou'd give her a Visit in private before he departed. Pray observe Sir, said the good Man, peeping his Wife in the Face, she has more Interest in the Courts of Justice than my self. When my Lord chief President comes to our House, Come hither my Dearest, will he say, take you my Robe and Cap, and do you give Sentence as you think Convenient. ‘O dear Sir, said the Marshal Smiling, I hope this may turn to my great Advantage, Come Madam, Come,’ said he, making a shew as if he wou'd embrace [Page 100] her, ‘if you will but take my business in Hand, I don't question but we shall ma­nage the Cause to very good purpose. But Sir, continu'd he, ere I forget it, are not you a Native of Normandy; if I don't mistake, I have heard 'em say that you have great skill in the tricking part of the Law, as most of your best Gen­tlemen of that Country have.’ No, Sir, reply'd Monsieur Niguese, ‘I was born near Paris, but Normandy is the Native Coun­try of my Wife.’ O you then are the Person who is best skill'd in that part, reply'd the General in a Familiar manner, ‘it is to you that I must make my applica­tion, and give you Instructions concer­ning my whole Business.’ No question Sir, reply'd the Counsellor, but that we ‘shall find it out in time, I will leave you with my Wife to open the Cause; whilst I go to a certain Abbot one of my old Friends, to draw up a Petition for him of great Consequence. I cannot but tell you before I go, that this Abbot having got a young Wench with Child, she now Sues him for a Maintenance both for her self and the Child, for their Lives. My Dearest, do you relate the rest of the Story to Monsieur Boufflers.’ O yes, yes, said the Lady, being very uneasie that he was not gone before, ‘my dear sweet Hus­band, [Page 101] I will notfail to do it, do but yno go to the Abbot du Gret, 'tis possible he may else employ another Lawyer. O Plague! said he, putting on his Cloak, I shou'd not like that, for he is a pleasant sort of a Fellow; besides, he has always some Law-business or another, especially relating to Women, being a particular admirer of the fair Sex, and is always busie in grafting in their Gardens. For that I un­derstand said Monsieur Boufflers, this is a dan­gerous Spark: Adieu reply'd Monsieur Ni­guese, my Wife knows him better than I.’

The Counsellor's Lady being thus rid of the troublesome Company of her Hus­band, immediately enter'd upon her Love-concerns, which was what the Marshal wish'd for. The Parly was soon over, and in a little time they began to examine matters, piece by piece, but especially those of the Marshal de Boufflers; which this fair Lady handl'd almost without Intermission, con­fessing to him ingenuously, that she had ne­ver touch'd any thing so well proportion'd in her Life-time. But Madam reply'd he, per­ceiving that she was no novice at the Trade, you have forgot my Lord President's, are not his Parts superiour to mine? Oh! there is a great deal of difference my Dear, reply'd she with a little Confusion, I never met with a more disagreeable Man in the whole [Page 102] course of my Life, than he is from Head to Foot; for his Natural Parts both above and below, are so inconsiderable, that one wou'd swear he had been clipt on all sides. This was enough for our Marshal to satisfy him­self in what he was desirous to know, concerning this Lady, with whom he had been so lately engag'd, and whom he had found also very defective as to what he had imagin'd her to be at first Sight: Wherefore after some farther Conversa­tion altogether relating to Love Affairs, he was for taking his leave, but the Lady, who was not so soon cool'd as he entreated him to stay a little longer, which the Marshal excus'd, under pretence that a vio­lent Fit of the Colick had seis'd him; so that without any farther delay he departed from thence, to give a visit to one of his Relations, who liv'd in the Suburbs of St. Germain, to whom he gave an ac­count of this whole Adventure, without mincing the matter.

O brave! cry'd this Lady, laughing at him, now you have catch'd a Tortois indeed, you have bestow'd your Love upon a very de­serving Creature, whose chief Reputation is, that she prostitutes herself to all sorts of Men, viz, Priests, Monks, Hostlers, &c. nothing comes amiss to her, even to the Curate of Meudon, and he you must know is a brave [Page 103] Fellow indeed. And what is this terrible Fel­low pray, reply'd the Marshal de Boufflers desiring her to continue her discourse. What he is, reply'd Madam Garenne, Ill tell you my Dear Kinsman, he bespatters the reputation of all the Women and Maids in his Parish, except such as he knows to be willing to comply with his Brutish Lust. That Impudent Rascal, reply'd the Marshal laugh­ing ought to be sous'd, as well as all the rest of the Religious Orders, that cannot keep with­in their bounds. I know one my self, whom I make use of sometimes for a Father Confessour, who oftner talks of Love, than of Penance to those Ladies, who come to him to Confes­sion.

One of the Lady's Gentlewomen com­ing into the Room, broke off the Discourse, telling her that the Countess of—was come to pay her Honour a Visit. The Mar­shal very earnestly looking in the Face of of this Gentlewoman, found her as fair as an Angel, besides that she had a most Charming sweetness in her Speech and whole Deportment; Monsieur de Boufflers having been instantly touch'd with her Charms, told his Cousin, that for certain Reasons he wou'd not be present while the Coun­tess paid her Visit, but that in the mean while he wou'd stay in her Chamber. Madam Ga­renne, who had always a great deal of [Page 104] Complaisance for him, said to her wait­ing Woman, Janneton, do you in the mean time entertain my Cousin with the pleasant Ad­ventures of the unfortunate She Lover, which was at that time a new Novel much in Vogue, and which her Gentlewoman had got by Heart. She had no sooner begun to relate the first Intrigue, when the Mar­shal Squeezing her Hands between his: told her with a very Passionate look. ‘I wish you wou'd rather tell me somewhat concerning your own Love-concerns, than of others, In which I have not the least share.’ How Sir, reply'd Janneton with a blush, ‘shou'd I relate to you my own Love-Adventures, who never Lov'd in my Life-time?’ Is it possible my fairest, answer'd the Marshal, ‘that so charming a Creature as you shou'd not have been made sensible of the force of Love. You wou'd Madam, said he, give, but will not take.’ I don't in the least believe reply'd she, with a very becoming Modes­ty, ‘that it is in my Power to engage any one in Love.’ Oh! Madam, reply'd the Marshal smiling, ‘you are but only too powerful, for at this very Moment you, have made me your Slave.’ Jan­neton who was unacquainted with such Pas­sionate Expressions, especially coming from the Mouth of such a Gentleman as the [Page 105] Marquess de Boufflers; return'd no answer to what he said, but rising from her seat, was about to leave the Marshal alone not­withstanding her Mistresses orders, to en­tertain him during her Absence.

But the Marshal stopping her Passage, ‘whether will you fly, said he, my dear Child, pray don't deny to hear my suf­ferings.’ What wou'd you have me say Sir, reply'd the young Gentlewoman with a blush which had spread it self all over her Face ‘I don't understand your Lan­guage, and I am much surpris'd that you'll stoop so low as to make it your business to wheedle so inconsiderable a Person as I am, who am altogether ignorant in the Love Cards, as in the Art of Algebra.’ Thou art in Jest sure my Dearest, reply'd the Marshal, going to Kiss her Mouth which was very small, and as red as Coral; ‘Love, is Natural to both Sexes, and I can read it in thy fair Eyes, that thou art not in­sensible of it.’ Oh! thou pretty Rogue, let me embrace thee, else I dye without delay, Dye if you please Sir, reply'd Janneton, pushing him from her, ‘you are full of your Transports and Fa­miliarities, which are in no wise agree­able to my Humour; how long have you known me, thus to call me, thou at every turn, you may call your Servant-Maids [Page 106] so if you please: As for me, I was born the Daughter of the Marquess de la Fleur, who is descended of a noble and ancient Family in Bretaigne, tho' somewhat decay'd and under a Cloud at this time. Madam Garenne has been pleas'd to take me into her House and does not treat me like a Servant but as a Friend.’ The Marshal having consider'd with himself, that his Cousin at her going out of the Room had desir'd her to entertain him; which Office does not belong to Chamber-maids, he told her, throwing himself at her Feet; ‘Madam I beg your Pardon, I was not so happy as to know you before, besides 'twas the excess of my Passion that made me take too much liberty; but I find you Cruel and Inexorable to the highest de­gree. As far I can see, you wou'd let whole Troops of Lovers dye at your Feet, without the least Compassion on your side; certainly Madam this is a crime of the highest Nature, to be so Inhuman.’ I take it to be a greater Crime in you Sir, reply'd Janneton, laughing at his being in this Posture, to endeavour to perswade ‘us, if we were so Foolish as to believe it, that you are most Passionately in Love with all such Persons, to whom you address your Courtships; but as for my part, you must excuse me, if I can­not [Page 107] give Credit to your Asseverations, I know a little too well the true Character of you Courtiers, not by Experience, but by the Relations of others, who have had the Opportunity to try 'em. And what do those pretty incredulous Creatures say of us, reply'd the Marshal carelesly. O Sir, said Janneton, they'll tell you of a thousand Dissembling and Perfidious tricks, such as are altogether unbecoming a great Soul: I wonder how Gentlemen of Quality can condescend to make use of such mean ways to deceive our Sex; I shou'd think that Love, being the most innocent Commerce among us Mortals, shou'd be founded upon honourable Prin­ciples.’ You have spoke very well, my most adorable Janneton, cry'd the Mar­shal Transported with Passion; ‘but you must consider that these Lady's of whom you speak, deal somewhat unjustly with us, in representing all Men of one and the same Temper: There are some that are Lovers of Honour and Integrity, and wou'd scorn to deal upon other Terms with your Sex; thanks to my Stars, I am of the number of these, and I wou'd sooner,’ added he, drawing his Sword out of the Scabbard, ‘thrust this thro' my Heart than deceive a Lady that Loves me. Then Sir, reply'd the young Lady smiling, one [Page 108] must Love you, if one wou'd make sure of your Heart. Yes Divine Creature, said Monsieur de Boufflers, that is the only way to Conquer it and to make it your Vassal.’

Madam Garenne, who had re-conducted the Countess to her Coach, coming in, inter­rupted 'em, otherwise our General wou'd not have broke off so soon; But this Lady as soon as she was enter'd ‘well Cousin said She, has Mademoiselle de la Fleur en­tertain'd you with some satisfaction con­cerning the unfortunate She-Lover?’ Yes Madam, reply'd the Marshal, casting a tender look upon Janneton, ‘but I have in my turn, entertain'd her with that of the Unfortunate He Lover, who cou'd not perswade his Mistress of his sincerity, upon which subject I have enlarg'd to the utmost of my Ability. Your Made­moiselle there, is the most unlucky, unbeliev­ing Creature in the World, she will not believe a Word one says; except you forswear your self to the Devil, you can­not perswade her of the least thing that can be.’ O dear Cousin, said Madam Ga­renne, don't Swear; you are not ignorant that the fair Sex is always incredulous, and that they take a particular Pride in making their Gallants languish for 'em. Plague! on this way of making Love; reply'd the Marquess plea­santly, I wou'd have 'em take my Word at [Page 109] first. Oh! my dear Kinsman, answer'd the Lady, this wou'd abate a great deal of the pleasure; you know that every thing that is bought dear pleases best: If a Woman shou'd at first sight surrender her Heart, you wou'd be deprivd of the most charming part of your Passion: What is easily obtain'd, soon looses its Vigour, and fades as fast as it grows. But come, let us talk of other more substantial matters; one cannot live upon Love, and in my mind, Love is but a slender Diet.

No sooner had the Lady broke off this Discourse, but she order'd that a good Collation shou'd be got ready; in the mean time, the Marshal who appear'd very pensive, retir'd into another Room, where having fix'd his Eyes upon several Pictures representing some Rural Nymphs, he di­verted himself with some Pastoral Songs; which his Kinswoman having taken notice of; Come, Come, Cousin, cry'd she, awake out of your Amourous slumber, come taste whe­ther my Wine be good. By my Faith Ma­dam, answer'd the Marshal, I am so drunk with Love, that all other Food is insipid, every thing else is indifferent to me: Not very long ago, continu'd he, being at Supper with the two Marshals, de Crequi and de Navaille, and my Thoughts being taken up with a certain amourous Assignation at a place where I had been entertain'd some time before, with a [Page 110] great deal of Delight and Satisfaction; these Gentlemen finding me thus pensive, were so spite­ful as to slip upon my Plate a great piece of a Candle, which I swallow'd ere I was aware of it, and when this was done, you may ima­gine they jeer'd me very handsomely. What a Fool dost thou make thy self, Boufflers, said Madam Garenne, thus to put thy self into A­mourous Raptures; if a compleat History of thy Love-adventures were to be committed to Wri­ting, it wou'd undoubtedly make a very large Volume. When you have drunk this Glass of Wine, (which she presented to him,) be so Complaisant, said she to him, as to tell me who it is that at present has Captivated your Heart. And wou'd you have me tell you sin­cerely my dear Kinswoman, reply'd the Mar­shal, 'tis Mademoiselle de la Fleur, who has chain'd me so closely, that I shall scarce be able to bear it long, except this lovely Child will take some pitty on me: She appears to me the most amiable Person in the World; her pretty little Mouth, her roguish Eyes, which send forth their Rays like so many Darts every moment: Lord! I shall run Mad, if I think any longer of 'em: Come, Truce in Love for some time; Come let us drink once, continu'd he, Drink­ing a hearty draught of Wine, which was ex­traordinary good: Here is to your best In­clinations; here is to your charming Eyes, said he, to Mademoiselle de la Fleur, who was just [Page 111] coming into the Room. Come Janneton, said Madam Garenne laughing, Pledge the Mar­shal that same Health. Madam, reply'd the young Gentlewoman very modestly, I have business of greater moment than to pledge the Marshal's Health to my Inclinations, which as I am apt to believe are not agreeable to his sentiments, who admires good natur'd and ply­able Lady's. and those too must be as sweet and tender as young Mutton. Thus I wou'd wish it to be Mademoiselle, reply'd the Marshal, taking her by the Hand. Pray Sir, said Janneton very gravely, let me go, I am just now about to paint you one, which I am sure will please you. Provided she be like you, re­ply'd Monsieur de Boufflers, I am sure I shall like her.

Mademoiselle de la Fleur being gone out of the Room, our General, who was really in Love both with her Wit and engaging Air, spoke concerning her with a great deal of earnestness to his Cousin, who gave him to understand that she was a Gen­tlewoman of good Quality, and that out of Respect, she had made her her Com­panion. Indeed she told me so, answer'd the Marshal, and she did not forget to mention the great Obligations she had to you: I have a great deal of Compassion for her upon that score, reply'd the Lady; truely I know her to be a young Woman of a good Reputation, and I [Page 112] hope she has Wit enough to keep it. And so do I Madam, reply'd the Marshal, if she will take my Word for it, I assure you I Love her as much—The Lady having soon understood the Marshal's meaning, Pray Cousin, said she, don't you go about to De­bauch this young Gentlewoman, for whom I have a particular kindness; it is a strange thing that you Gentlemen cannot employ your time better, than to put Love-tricks into the young Womens Heads, who of a sudden turn Fools, and are undone by it. Your Amourous Intreagues are as dangerous as your Martial Exploits: You talk of nothing when you are together, but of con­suming of Hearts as well as Villages by Fire, and by your good will you wou'd reduce e­very thing to Ashes: Come employ you Fire­locks in another Place, than in my House which you ought to Honour and Respect. But Ma­dam, reply'd the Marshal briskly, supposing this Fire you speak of shou'd first break out in your House, may not a Man complain of 'it, or make himself satisfaction? Ay, Ay, you are never unprovided for a Repartee, reply'd the Lady, but let me desire you, if you will oblige me, not to talk of Love to Janneton, whenever you see her. Then the Devil take me my dear Cousin, said Monsieur de Boufflers hastily, if any thing in the World can make me do that; at that rate I must go and cut out my—I dare not name it. Oh! cry'd [Page 113] the Lady laughing, you are not half so despe­rate as you wou'd make us believe. Farewel, you are only sick in Fancy, I leave you to your self. But Madam, reply'd the Marshal pleasantly, and shall I not have the liberty to love Mademoiselle de la Fleur, and to tell her—No, No, not her, cry'd the Lady, Declare your Passion to some Body else, where it will turn to better Account: Janneton was not made for such Sparks as you. You may say what you please my dear Cousin, said the Marshal, just as he was going, but this I am sure of, I am resolv'd to adore her.

No sooner was the Marshal gone, but Madam Garenne call'd for Janneton, who was at that time making a piece of Em­broidery-work, which was the Figure of Diana, wrought with Silk and Gold; she had represented this Goddess so lively, sit­ting just upon the Banks of a small Current, that it was charming to behold, and one cou'd not chuse but extremely admire both the skill of the Work-Woman, and the exactness of the Work. When she was come down to Madam Garanna, she began to give her a very sober Lesson concer­ning the Marshal de Boufflers, whom she told her, she must by no means hearken to, but fly from his presence, as that of her greatest Enemy; if you did but know my Dearest, said she, unto what danger a young [Page 114] Woman exposes her self, whenever she lends an Ear to the flattering Courtships of your Soldiers, it wou'd make you stand amaz'd; nothing but what is terrible and frightful belongs to 'em, and a vertuous Woman must inevitably loose her Reputation, if she be conversant with 'em; if they happen to meet with any one that is so foolish as to be catch'd in the Snare, she will be sure to be rewarded with a certain loathsome Distemper, which is not fit to be nam'd, and makes a great many Women undergo the Mar­trydom of Love. Young Women, who design to make their Fortune in the World, must not set up for light House-Wives, but fly from the Com­pany of Men, as it were so many evil Spirits; this is the ready way to advance themselves the sooner by a good Match. I remember that the first time that I saw my Husband, I had not till then spoke to any other Man; in somuch that he was more taken with my innocent Behaviour than with my Beauty and Portion, tho' both of 'em (if I may say it without Vanity) were not despiseable. I having at that time the Reputa­tion of being one of the most beautifull VVomen in Paris. You have still a great share of it, re­ply'd Janneton smiling, you are still worthy of the same Character. Let us set jesting a side, reply'd the Lady, and let us return to Boufflers, who is one of the most dangerous Men in the World; to hear him talk of his Passion, you wou'd imagine that the whole Universe was not able [Page 115] to contain it, which often comes to no more than a Visit. I don't know Madam, reply'd Ma­demoiselle de la Fleur, with a very serious Countenance, why you shou'd give such a Lesson to me, who never knew any thing of the General, but what I heard you speak, and to whom I never spoke in my Life before, till now. Well, Well, Janneton, said Madam Garenne, that advantage is not very great on your side: For to tell you the true motive, which makes me talk thus to you; you must know that he has declar'd to me, that he is fall'n in Love with you: Jesus Maria, reply'd Janneton, much surpris'd is it possible that he shou'd be so Silly, as to tell you a thing of this nature, which I am apt to believe he scarce ever dream'd of? Madam if you will take my opinion in the matter, it was only to divert himself; don't you observe what delight he takes to banter the Women. He banters 'em often to some pur­pose, said the Lady laughing, he has by these bant'ring Tricks got many a young Soldier to defend our Frontiers. 'Tis not above two Months ago that a young Country-Damsel brought forth at one Birth two lusty Boys of his be­getting which I believe lye a little hard upon him at present, because he is oblig'd to take care as well of the Mother, as of the Chil­dren, whom he says, he will make his Foot-men, as soon as they are able to wear a La­very-Coat. He does very well, reply'd Made­moiselle [Page 116] de la Fleur, to find out so honourable an Employment for 'em in time, Madam, I wou'd have you be at rest as to this Point, for I assure you that I never shall love Mon­sieur de Boufflers.

But Alass! how difficult a task it is for a young tender Heart to forswear Love, which by degrees Triumphs over all the World. This fair One was no sooner got­up into her Chamber again, but she began to feel some extraordinary Emotions for the Marshal, whose Idea was firmly fixt in her Mind, tho' she had spoke of him with so much indifferency to her Lady: It seem'd as if the Lesson which she had receiv'd from her Mouth, had only serv'd to raise some kind of tenderness in her Heart, of which she was not so sensible before. I Love him in spite of what resistance I can make, said Janneton, while she was ruminating upon the matter; the Idea I have conceiv'd of him, begins to be very de­lectable to me; if I had not been so much Tutor'd about it, perhaps I shou'd never have lov'd him: What strange Fatality! They des­cribe him to me as a Man equally terrible both in Love and War, but good God! notwithstan­ding all this, I am not able to controll my growing Passion, I am sensible I shou'd stifle that secret Voice which calls to me, Love, Love, and I shou'd not make the least return to the [Page 117] Marshal's Protestations, which like Thunder­claps soon strike down to the Ground a Heart so feeble as mine.

She was making these Reflections with herself, when Madam Garenne, who began to repent of having said so much to her upon that Subject, coming up into her Chamber, ask'd her, whether her Work went on a pace? Yes Madam, reply'd the young Gentlewoman, in a very Melan­choly Tone, I do what I can to bring it for­ward! What is the matter with you Janne­ton, said the Lady, looking in her Face, you seem to be much discompos'd; what is it that disturbs you? Nothing Madam, reply'd she, 'tis impossible for any Person always to retain an even Temper; there is none that is not out of Humour at certain times. I don't deny that my Dear, answer'd the Lady, but at the same time, a young Woman as you are, must not give way to Melancholy Fancies, What can be the cause of it? Janneton made no further answer, but under pretence of looking about for something that she had mis-laid, she got free of her Lady, who began to be troublesome to her at that time; for the Lady imagining that her silence proceeded from being to over diligent at her Work, left her to her self in her Chamber, and went down into her own, where she spent her time in reading a [Page 118] Book of Devotion, which bears the Title of Moral Reflections upon the Lives of the Saints.

But let us leave these two Lady's for a little while, and see what is become of our Marshal, who went to his Lodgings as en­amour'd as ever he was in Life-time: He represented to his Imagination the perfecti­ons of Mademoiselle de la Fleur, which had such an influence over his Spirits, that he did neither Sleep nor Eat, as he us'd to do, because he never went either to Bed or Table, without being disturb'd by his amourous Disorders: He appear'd always pensive, being overwhelm'd with a thousand distracting Cares, which almost reduc'd him to the extremity of Despair, when he consi­der'd with himself all the obstacles which he was to surmount before he cou'd have the least hopes of obtaining his aim; for Madam Garenne his Cousin had peremto­rily declar'd that she wou'd not allow of the least Intercourse between him and his Mistress, from whom he as yet had re­ceiv'd but very small encouragement;—but that which afforded him most Consolation was, that he had observ'd in her whole deportment a natural inclination to ten­derness, tho' she feign'd in some of her Actions a great deal of haughtiness and cruelty. This hope (the common atten­dant [Page 119] of Love) made him ruminate a long time what means might be most expedient for the accomplishing of his Design, which was contrary to the Will of his Friend; to whom he ow'd infinite obligations, be­cause it was her Husband who had lent him the Mony, with which he had pur­chas'd the Royal Regiment of Dragoons, which he commanded as Colonel at that time. However, all these considerations were not strong enough to divert him from pursuing his former Intentions.

But before he went again to his Cou­sin's, he took a Resolution first to go and give a Visit to his Counsellor, Monsicur Niguese, being now resolv'd to break quite off with his Wife, for whom he cou'd not any longer have either Love or esteem: When he came to the Counsellor's House, he ask'd him for his Writings, at which the Lawyer being much surpris'd, told him that he scarce had time enough to peruse'em, desiring him to let him know the reason of his calling for 'em so sud­denly. No other Reason Sir, reply'd the Marshal, but that both Parties have agreed the matter; pray let me know how much I am indebted to you for your trouble. Monsieur Ni­guese who was a Master at his Trade, as most of that Profession are, made him a Bill; which amounted to as much as if [Page 120] he had manag'd the whole Cause from the beginning to the end. What the Devil, said the Marshal de Boufflers, whilst he was paying the Mony; Do you thus manage all your Clients Purses? I think he was in the right on't that was wont to compare you Coun­sellors and Sollicitors to Familiar Spirits, who usually get all the Mony they can, to carry it along with 'em to Hell into Lucifer's Trea­sury. The Lawyer perceiving an Affront to be put upon him by this Expression, told him that he cou'd find a way to make him hold his Tongue, and taking him by one Arm, was ready to thrust him out of the doors. How now Block-head, answer­ed Monsieur Boufflers, I'll make you know whom you have to do withal, and no sooner had he spoke these Words, but he seconded 'em with his Sword, which he very smartly laid over the Counsellor's Head; take this for your Pains, said our General, Mr. Cuck­old, take this, it may serve to polish your Horns a little, which as yet are somewhat rugged.

Madam Niguese the Counsellor's Wife having heard a sudden noise in the Entry, came running out with all speed to see waht might be the matter: She happen'd just at that time to be in Company with a Frier, who as 'twas suppos'd, was accustom­ed to kiss her in Private, and being surpris'd at the Scuffle, had forgot to put down her [Page 121] Petty-coats, which were still up as high as to her Knees: When she saw her Husband and Gallant thus engag'd, she was so extre­mely amaz'd, that she was not able to speak one Word, but seeing the Marshal lay his Sword over her Husband's Horn's without intermission, she cou'd do nothing else but make a most lamentable out-cry, which soon brought the Frier out to her assist­ance, but in as bad a Condition as her self: For the good Father had forgot in the fright to put up his Business in its right place, which was all expos'd to the view of the Spectators; Monsieur Boufflers as an­gry as he was (having receiv'd some blows from the Counsellor) cou'd not forbear laughing out aloud; How now, said he, Religious Father, if a Man may call you so, are you not asham'd to act thus a­bove board? You pretend to teach us Chastity, and you appear in our sight just recking from your unchast Embraces; fy! what a shameless sight is this! And pulling him by the Sleeve, at least Sir, said he, put up your Concerns. The Frier and the Lady being in the mean while recover'd from their first sur­prise, began now to be sensible of their mistake, but being put all into confusion, they run away as fast as they cou'd, with­out making the least answer. The poor Counsellor was no less surpris'd than the [Page 122] other two, because he had seen his Horns in their Natural shape, without disguise, which made him retreat as fast as he cou'd to his Study, after he had been soundly drub'd by the Marshal, who thus remaining Master of the Field of Battel, decamp'd immediately from thence with his Writings in his Possession.

A few days after, being now pretty well recover'd of his Passion, which he had had for the Counsellor's Wife, he inten­ded to make a visit to Madam Garenne, to give her an account of this last Adven­ture, but considering with himself, that she wou'd only laugh at him, he deferr'd it till a more convenient Opportunity. The next day, passing by chance by her House, about four a Clock in the After­noon, and the Door being just open, he espy'd Janneton, who was conducting out one of her Acquaintance: The Marshal perceiv'd her to blush at the sight of him, and as he was drawing nearer to accost her, she made away with all the haste she cou'd. Boufflers, who never wants pre­sence of Mind, upon such an occasion as this, follow'd her close, and why, said he, Mademoiselle do you shun me, what is it that is so frightful about me? Yes Sir, reply'd Jan­neton not with out some disturbance, I dread you in a most terrible manner, and that too not [Page 123] without a great many weighty Reasons; but for Heaven's sake don't force me to declare 'em to you; if your Kinswoman shou'd happen to see us together, she wou'd not think very well of it. I am not ignorant of that matter, my dear Child, reply'd the Marshal, but for God's sake stay but one Moment: Never any Mortal suf­fer'd so much as I have done, neither Lov'd to that degree as I do. All those pathetical Expressions commonly us'd by Lovers to make their Mistresses sensible of the Vehemency of their Passion, fall far short of what I can say of mine. You have robb'd me of my Liberty my fair An­gel, and I must be the most unfortunate of all Men living, except you take compassion of my Sufferings.

He cou'd not utter these last Words without shedding some Tears, which wrought no ill effect upon the the fair One, that was the occasion of 'em, and who answer'd in Terms so obliging, and with so charming an Air, to what he had said to her, that the Marshal was no longer Master of himself, but resolv'd to prosecute his Design in spite of his Kins-woman's endeavours to the con­trary, But Janneton who consider'd that if this Lady shou'd return sooner from Visiting than she expected, she wou'd be chid se­verely, and be in danger of utterly losing her Favour, begg'd with all the Civility ima­ginable, her Lover to leave her for that time [Page 124] which he did, not thinking it reasonable to disoblige her, who run so much hazard for his sake. Among the rest of the Servants of the House, there was an old Maid, whose name was Toinette, she was the Governess of the Kitchen, and having observ'd our two Lovers prattling together, she adver­tis'd Madam Garenne of it as soon as she came Home, who being transported with Anger, chid Janneton most severely, which she wou'd have endur'd patiently enough if this Lady had not seconded her Words with such a sound Box on the Ear, that she tumbl'd down upon one side; calling her at the same time wanton Slut, an impudent and dissembling Wretch, &c. You will e're long find the effects of his Courtship, said she, if you are Fool enough to hearken to 'em: He is the most fickle Man in the World; he never loves above one Moment; he has as many Mi­stresses as he has Shirts to his Back, and he changes 'em twice or thrice a Week. Is this your modesty? Is this your Conduct, which made you to be so much respected among People of vertuous Principles?

Mademoiselle de la Fleur who cou'd not well digest the box o'th' Ear, did not re­turn one Word, but pretending that she wou'd go up into her Chamber, she pri­vately pack'd up all her Goods and Chat­tels, and pass'd immediately thro' the Gar­den; [Page 125] from whence she got out at a Back­door, which open'd directly into the same Street where the Marshal lodg'd, who saw her come forth as he was looking out of the Window. He was never more surpris'd in his Life time, than when he perceiv'd her Eyes all Red and Swell'd with Tears. What can be the matter Mademoiselle, said he, coming towards her; dare I be so bold as to ask you, what makes you weep thus? Alass! Sir Said she, I am undone. The Mar­shal, who was just by his Lodgings, made her a sign to follow him, not thinking it a proper place there, to talk of matters of Moment. It is not very Convenient, reply'd she with a blush, to go with you into your Lodgings, but what matter is it, I am desperate and care not what becomes of me? That is all but a Jest, answer'd the Marshal, taking her by the Hand, I will tell my Land-Lady you are my Sister, which he did, and the good Woman believ'd it for a considerable time. Our fair one being gone up with the Marshal into his Chamber, burst out all in Tears, giving him an account of what had pass'd between the Lady and her: ‘To give a box on the Ear to a Gentlewoman of my Quali­ty, said she, and that too, for no other reason but because I had discours'd with a Gen­tleman of Honour, certainly is the most unbecoming Action that ever cou'd be [Page 126] done by a sensible Woman. I am quite out of all Patience, reply'd Boufflers, if I were to follow my Inclination, I shou'd go and stick that old Witch, who inform'd her of it to the Wall; she often passes by here, and I'll have her Bastonado'd by one of my Servants, she shall have the Strapado till the Blood follows. Have a care of that, reply'd Janneton, for that wou'd be the way to undo me without Redress. And what my Dearest, said the Marshal embracing her, wou'd you not have me revenge your Quarrel, I assure you that I shall always be ready to hazard my Life for your sake. 'Tis I who am the cause of these extravagancies which my Cousin has committed against you, and I ask your Pardon a thousand times upon that account.’

These his amourous Protestations were accompany'd with such Passionate Trans­ports, and intermingl'd with so many sweet Kisses, which he stole from his fair Angel, that six or seven Hours pass'd thus away no otherwise than if it had been one Moment; in the mean while Night began to approach, and Mademoiselle de la Fleur reflecting upon the matter, how unbecoming it was for a modest Gentlewo­man to be thus late in an Officer's Cham­ber, who was one of the greatest Gallants [Page 127] about the Town, and ruminating hovv she shou'd best dispose of her self; because her Lover had not in the least taken notice of it, she was not a little surpris'd to see the Land-Lady come in, who immediate­ly told her that if she pleas'd there was a Chamber ready for her in the House, not far from the Marshal's, which he had caus'd to be furnish'd very handsomely for her use. You need say no more Mrs. Borgne, said the Marshal, my Sister whom I have not seen a great while, will stay here for some time; Pray let Supper be got ready. The Land-Lady went down to look after Supper, leaving the Brother and Sister at their own Liberty, who did not live long toge­ther in the same condition; as you'll find by the sequel of the Story: Supper be­ing ready, Monsieur Boufflers order'd it to be brought up into his Chamber, because he intended to Sup in private, and poor Jan­neton sat there like a Carthusian Frier, that is to say, without speaking one Word, be­ing shy of the Marshal's Servants who waited at Table, and look'd upon her as a chance-Lady, the Marshal observ'd it as well as she, but there was no Remedy for it.

Having Supp'd and dismiss'd the Servants, he conducted her into the Chamber which was prepar'd for her, where she stay'd a good part of the Night, which was spent [Page 128] at the Feet of his Mistress, and in reiterated assurances of the sincerity of his Passion. 'Tis easie to be imagin'd, what sort of Language two Persons, that lov'd one ano­ther did make use of, at a time when all the World was at rest. Janneton being now somewhat weary'd with the Caresses receiv'd from her Lover, was willing to go to sleep, notwithstanding the continual en­treaties of the Marshal, who has since protested to me, with all the sincerity imaginable, that he never met with any young Lady so Lovely, so Modest, and so worthy of his Heart as she was: Having at her desire quitted her Room, he went likewise to his own Chamber, to take some rest after his Love-toils, which by this time had caus'd him to endure no small Fa­tigues.

Let us leave these two Lovers for a little while, to enjoy their Rest, whilst we go and observe how Madam Garenne takes the E­lopement of her Companion: This Lady having miss'd her, caus'd Candles to be lighted immediately, and order'd the House to be search'd from top to bottom. What is become of this Impudent Baggage, wou'd she cry, being sometimes in the Garret, and anon in the Cellar, after she had look'd long enough for her in all the Chambers of the House; ‘I hope, said she, she has [Page 129] thrown herself into the River or some Pond, what an unfortunate Woman was I, when I took upon me the charge of this wanton Slut, who has play'd me a trick that I did not in the least dream of? What can become of her? If the Marshal de Boufflers shou'd get the least scent of this mischance, he will quickly be with her.’ I believe Madam, said Toi­nette, ‘that that is not to be done now, for I am almost sure that she is with him already: If you had been an Eye-Wit­ness of those Caresses which he so Li­berally bestow'd upon her, you wou'd not question it any more than I do. Alass! a perfidious Man as he is, reply'd the La­dy, he loves all handsome Women; but God is my Witness, that it is seldom for above two or three Weeks, to obtain his aim, and then he wishes 'em in a­nother part of the World. Don't let us talk any more of the Passion of a Man whose inclinations are so fickle and in­constant; 'tis impossible that he can have any real Friendship for any one living; I am convinc'd of it by the treatment I have receiv'd from him: After my Hus­band has done for him what he has, he was so much indebted to me; that he ought to have Sacrifis'd every thing in acknowledgment of such a Friendship, instead of which, he causes me these Vexa­tions.’

[Page 130] ‘But pray, said she, tell me, in what manner did he caress her, who never un­derstood any thing of these matters, hav­ing scarce ever seen a Man in private since she was a Child, when her Father gave her into my Charge? Sure Ma­dam you are not in earnest, answer'd the old Maid laughing, these things are natu­ral to us, they are learn'd without much exercise. But pray tell me, said Madam Garenne, what did he do to her? What shou'd he do to her Madam? reply'd Toinette, he kiss'd sometimes her Hands, and sometimes her Lips; he lay down at her Feet just like a Fool; he embrac'd her, calling her at the same time his Deity, his Angel, and a thousand such like ex­travagancies. Oh! that idle Baggage! said the Lady, she will like this sport mightily for some time, till she be put out of taste with it.’ Madam Garenne wou'd have continu'd her discourse, if her Domestick Affairs had not call'd for her presence another way, where we will leave her, and return to our two Lovers.

The Marshal de Boufflers now in full possession of his Mistress, was not wan­ing to give her every day new Proofs of his Love; assuring her that it shou'd al­ways be inviolable, which promise; he made a shift to keep for some time, be­ng very generous to her in all respects: [Page 131] But as all things are subject to change, so it happen'd here; for our General being order'd to march into the Field, he was soon forc'd to quitt his Mistress; There it was that he provided a Husband for her, having found out a certain Gentleman of his Acquaintance, who was willing to wear that Coat of Arms, which the Mar­shal had prepar'd for him, provided he wou'd encourage him with his Favour.

Madam de la Garenne his Kinswoman, who not having had the opportunity to speak to him before his departure, and therefore had writ several smart Letters to him, was overjoy'd at this Match, but poor Janneton, as I am to believe, was of a quite contrary Opinion, who now was to be made sensible that the Promises of Lo­vers are as wavering as the Billows of the Sea. It is to be known that the Mar­shal in the height of his Passion, had pro­mis'd to marry her, and to confirme it the more, had sign'd this Engagement with his own Blood: I have also been credibly inform'd that when he was upon concluding the intended March in the Camp, he rode Post from thence to Pa­ris, where having found out his Mistress at her Lodgings, my Dearest, said he, let me see the Contract which I sign'd, I am come on purpose to alter some particulars in it, which are not done as they ought to have been; [Page 132] He had no sooner spoke these Words and having receiv'd the Paper from her Hands, who took him upon his Honour, but he tore it in a thousand peices; Mademoisel­le de la Fleur being horribly surpris'd at these Proceedings, ask'd him all over­whelm'd with Grief and Tears, what was the reason of his so doing? Only for that rea­son which I told you before, my Dearest, said he, giving her a Kiss; and finding her to take the matter so much to Heart, the better to cover his design, he put the point of his naked Sword to his Breast, feigning a Resolution to kill himself, tho' he had not the least thought of it: The poor silly Gentlewoman, who doted upon him, snatch'd his Sword from him, de­claring that she wou'd rely upon his Word, which soon after was transmuted into that Marriage we spoke of before.

Some Years after, which was A. D. 1683. His most Christian Majesty upon some Complaints receiv'd of several Hos­tilities committed by the Spaniards against his Subjects, order'd the Marshal de Hu­mieres to besiege Courtray, where also were present the Princes de Conti and De la Roche sur yon, the Count de Verman­dois Admiral of France, and several other Persons of Quality: I have not been able to learn whether the Marshal de Boufflers at his return into the Dominions of his [Page 133] most Catholick Majesty, was for making another Conquest among the Spanish Lady's, who are only charming to the Eye. We will let this Year pass by in silence, and proceed to the next, when the Spaniards by several Acts of Hostility forc'd the French to a total rupture with Spain: But Mon­sieur de Boufflers soon made 'em sensible of their Error by ravaging thro' all the Villages between the Fort of St. Margreat and the City of Mons, where having es­py'd a certain Gentlewoman, the Widow of a Dutch Officer, who had been kill'd in a late Engagement; she alone was able to move him with Compassion.

This Lady was wont to go every Mor­ning and Evening to visit the Place where her Husband was bury'd, which she be­dew'd very frequently with her Tears. The Marshal, who had taken some liking to her before, going one Morning the Rounds according to his usual Custom every Day, found her at her Husband's Grave, at three a Clock in the Morning, and ask'd her ‘whether she had seen that Ghost she look'd for. Alass! no Sir, said she, my dearly Belov'd has not as yet appear'd to me, but I very impa­tiently desire to see him. Sure Madam, reply'd the General, you cannot be so sim­ple as to expect the Dead to come back into this World; and tho' it be the [Page 134] general Opinion, for my part I cannot believe it: Wherefore young Lady, I wou'd not have you thus bestow your time in running after a shadow, which has nothing Solid in it: I wou'd have you look after the Living; you ought much rather to consider of one who may be able to comfort you for your loss.’ The Lady not disliking the Marshal's Proposal, began to hearken to his discourse, ‘and Sir, said she very briskly, do you know one that is willing to supply the Va­cant place? Yes, said Monsieur Boufflers, (who meant otherwise than she) I know a certain Cavalier, who per­haps may give you more satisfaction than he, whose loss you so much bewail.’

Madam Backenbroodt, (this was the Name of the Lady) having soon understood the Marshal's meaning gave him no answer, at all, either out out of Modesty or Fear, the latter being a common infirmity among Women of that Country. Boufflers, who at first sight judg'd very right of her natu­ral disposition, did in very obliging Terms ask her where she Lodg'd, which she told him. The Marshal who is never backward in paying his visits to Lady's for whom he has some kindness, went to see her, and represented to her his Passion so sincerely, that she receiv'd his Ad­dresses without much reluctancy, believ­ing [Page 135] that she had now got another Husband; but poor Creature she was not well enough acquainted with the French Fashion. They continu'd their amourous Commerce thus for some time, till one Evening, when the Marshal being in a very good Humour, after having drunk plentifully with some of the Generals in their Tents, was resolv'd to have some relish as well of the sweets of Venus, as he had had of those of Bacchus.

In order to prosecute his Design, he went to visit Madam Backenbroodt, who re­ceiv'd him very Courteously, and after some little time spent in amourous Pro­testations and passionate Expressions, he at last begg'd of her the utmost Favour. The Gentlewoman (according to the practice of a great many Women of that Country, who think they have made a fair step towards Marriage, if they refuse not to bestow every thing upon their Lovers) made no great resistance, but upon that Condition, granted him all what he desir'd This was enough to put our General out of Conceit with his Amour, he not being in the humour to Marry at that time But to come to the Conclusion of the matter, he found no great satisfaction in the enjoy­ment of this Stranger; for tho' after he had done this gallant Exploit, he continu'd to pay her some few visits out of Complisance [Page 136] and in acknowledgment of the favour receiv'd, yet they did not turn to that account which the Lady did propose to her self: she wou'd sometimes upbraid him with his indifferency, but he excus'd him­self as well as he cou'd, laying all the fault upon his Military Employments, which as he said, took up so much of his time that he had not leisure to see his Friends. No other Lady besides her, wou'd have been so easily satisfy'd with these Reasons, but as good luck wou'd have it for her, she had been engag'd with a Person who seldom leaves any Proofs of his Love be­hind him, so that in consideration of that, she had the more reason to comfort her self for the loss.

Monsieur de Boufflers went soon after to be present at the Siege of Luxemberg, which was undertaken in the same Year; the Marshal de Crequi who commanded that Army in chief, having invested it in the Month of April, A. D. 1684. Here the Marshal again signalis'd himself by his Valour, as well as the Counts du Plessis and St. Geron, as did also a great many other brave Captains, who gave very remarkable Proofs of their undaunted Courage, nevertheless a great number of excellent Officers were lost during that Siege; among whom was the Marquess de Humieres, Colonel of a Regiment of Foot, [Page 137] only Son to the Marshal de Humieres, who was kill'd at the very beginning, in a Sally made by the Besieged. The Mar­shal de Boufflers was so griev'd at the Death of his Friend, whom he always lov'd extremely, that he scarce cou'd en­joy himself all the remainder of that Year. He wou'd needs put himself in Mourning Apparel, which prov'd a means to insinu­ate himself into the Favour of his deceased Friend's Father, who was in great esteem at Court.

Winter drawing near, some of the Officers repair'd to their respective Garri­sons, the rest to Paris or some other Prices. I cannot say any thing here to our Marshal's amourous Adventures, for some time after, because I know that he then made a resolution to take some rest, and instead of pursuing the sports of Ve­nus, to apply himself entirely to the Art of War, and the study of some other Sciences, for two or three Years; during which time, he became such a Proficient in every one of 'em, that he attain'd to the highest perfections, surpassing even his Masters, especially in the Mathematicks, to which his Genius was naturally inclin'd. The King having made him soon after, a Knight of the Order of the Holy-Ghost, he was all of a sudden inspir'd with so much Devotion, that he went every day [Page 138] to Mass, and to hear Sermons, of which he never miss'd one. He was wont also frequently at that time, to pay his visits to the Jesuits in the Professed House of Paris, who by that means became his par­ticular Friends, and they prevail'd with him to make a Vow to St. Amable, who is in great esteem in the City of Rion in Auvergne, both for his antiquity, and the great number of miracles which he is said to have wrought. This Saint is to be seen in the great Church of that City, and it is reported of him, that if any one does but touch, (with a true faith) a certain great Tooth which he has, it secures him from ever dying of his Wounds receiv'd in the Wars, or otherwise, as well as from any others, got by the biting of mad Dogs or Venomous Beast.

The Reader may easily judge from thence, that the Marshal had rais'd his mind to the highest pitch of Devotion, and some began to be of Opinion, that he was in a fair way of turning an absolute Bigot, if Love, which is not a fit Compa­nion for such sort of People, and which had always the chief Ascendant over his Heart, had not quickly made him change his Inclination, and oblig'd him to re-assume his former Liberty. Let us now see him go to the Battel of Fleurus, which happen'd in the Year 1690 in the Month of June, [Page 139] under the Command of the Duke of Luxemburg, who. was then General over the King's Forces in Flanders. No sooner were the Enemies beaten out of the Field, but Monsieur Boufflers, who had had an ample share in the Victory, took his rest in the Arms of a new Mistress, who possess'd all his thoughts for some time. This was one Mrs. Montberg the Daughter of a certain Flemmish Officer, who had been kill'd in the same Battel. It must be said to her advantage, that never was seen a more beautiful Woman of a brown Complexion in the World, and who had a more grace­full haughtiness in her whole Behaviour than she; and it was not without a great deal of trouble that the Marshal cou'd find an opportunity to address his Courtship to her. The loss of her Father, who was one of the best Officers the Allies had in the whole Army, had afflicted her to that degree that she refus'd to admit of any Consolation, having by his Death been bereav'd of all, what she cou'd call her own, as having no other Subsistance but what depended absolutely upon her Fa­ther's Fortune.

Monsieur de Boufflers having been inform'd concerning her present Condition by one of her Acquaintance, according to his generous inclination, which extended it self more particularly towards the fair Sex, of­fer'd [Page 140] her his Purse. It was not without great reluctancy that she accepted the of­fer of a Man, whom she suspected did not make his Presents for nothing; and the truth is, why shou'd any Man, shew so much kindness toward a Woman, unless with a prospect of receiving some fa­vours? They ought not to take the Libe­rality of their Gallants in any other sense, because they very often pay dearly for 'em. Our Marshal has often found it so, by his own experience, and to his Cost. But let us return to Mrs. Montberg, who by her passionate and Engaging Air had so Captivated the Heart of our General, that he has protested to me since, that he never was so much in Love in all his Life-time before; she appear'd to him so full of charms and sweetness in her whole Deportment; besides her Beauty, which tho' it was always extraordinary, yet appear'd at certain times with such a lus­tre, that it quite dazzl'd his Reason; so that in a little time he turn'd stark Fool, and her perfect Idolater, as he one day, when he lay at her Feet, was pleas'd to tell her himself.

‘You then Love me indeed, my dear Boufflers, said she very pleasantly. Yes my incomparable, reply'd the Marshal embracing her, but I intend to discount with your Heart for all the sufferings it makes me [Page 141] endure. You have Complaisance enough to make me a return of some small Fa­vours, but you will not grant me—What is it you wou'd have me grant you, my dearly Belov'd, answer'd the young Lady laughing, and interrupting his discourse, If I had in my gift the most eminent Offices in the State, or any thing else that is worth your acceptance; nay, if it lay in my power, continu'd she with a charming Air, to put a Crown up­on your Head, I protest to you, that you shou'd not stay for it till to mor­row. The weight of that Madam, re­ply'd the Marshal modestly, wou'd be too heavy and troublesome for me. It is in your power to make me, a Present no less precious than that: That agreeable Throne environ'd with Purple, the sweetest seat of Love, added he all trans­ported with Passion, is that to which my Ambition leads me. This is that Sove­raignty which is in your possession, and which if you will put into my Hands, I'll make you my Queen, and all my desires shall center in you: My Scepter shall only be touch'd by your fair Hands, and you alone shall have the whole sway and management of all the Affairs of State.’

Mrs. Montberg cou'd not forbear laugh­ing out as loud as she cou'd, at the in­genious [Page 142] interpretation which her Lover had made of her Words, to whom she answer'd with a smile; ‘Sir it is a Ta­lent peculiar only to the French Gentle men to express themselves in so extraor­dinary a manner; other Nations cannot pretend to that subtilty of Wit. And pray Madam, reply'd the Marshal with a great deal of feigned sincerity, what great Subtilty can there be in Expressing things naturally as they are. Is there any thing more common among Men than to en­deavour to be happy? And as it is in your power my Divine Creature, to make me the most Fortunate of all Mortals; I come here to embrace your Feet, and to pray you not to delay any longer my Happiness. There is another Thought, reply'd the young Lady, no less witty and pleasant than the former, I cou'd wish my self now a larger share of Wit than I have, that I might have the satisfaction of giving you a suitable return to these excellent Expressions. Madam, answer'd the Marshal, you'll certainly make me a suitable return, when you shall vouchsafe to grant my Request. And what is it then Sir, reply'd the Lady abruptly, that you desire, for that I see, you are not very easily satisfy'd. Yes my lovely Creature, pretty easily, said the Marshal kissing her fair Hands, you are not ignorant what it is that will content [Page 143] me. I don't know, reply'd Mrs. Mont­berg with a blush all over her Cheeks, you Cavaliers have a very nice taste and—’ here she stopt, which made her Lover press her very earnestly to proceed in her ‘Dis­course, and to let him know his doom, how long he was to live in this languishing Condition, before she wou'd let him en­joy those transcendent Delights which he so earnestly long'd for.’

The Lady having for a considerable time in most obliging Terms opposs'd his ‘a­mourous insinuations, was at last constrai­ned to tell him in a languishing tone, that as soon as that piece of Work, which she shew'd him, was compleated she wou'd do what she cou'd do to make him less unfor­tunate.’ Then make haste my Dearest, cry'd the Marshal squeezing her closely between his Arms, give me one half of it to finish. The young Lady taking him at his word, gave him the hinder part of a Cornet of Point la Reine which she had begun to work upon, No, No, answer'd the General smil­ing, and feigning as if he were about to throw it away I must have the fore part, there I can work to some purpose. Well, well, Sir, reply'd she as pleasantly, you shall have it, when I have gone on a little further with it, then you shall have it to finish. Madam, re­ply'd Boufflers, I believe I shall do more work there with my Needle in one moment, than all [Page 144] your Work-women can in a very considerable space of time: I am very expeditions in all my business, but especially in the service of the fair Sex. Well, well, Sir, since you are such a nimble Work man, reply'd the young Lady, giving him a Needle and Thread, and all the other Implements belonging to the Work, take notice that you are to have nothing for your pains before it be quite finish'd; and likewise that you are to have no pay till mine be brought to perfection as well as yours: Thus having kept the hinder part of the Cornet to work upon herself, she gave the fore part to the General accor­ding to his desire, which he got finish'd in eight days.

But the Lady, who was resolv'd to let him languish for some time longer, was so mali­cious as to unrip at night (as formerly Penelope did) what she had done by Day; so that when our Marshal thought himself almost sure of his pay, according to her promise, he was as far off as ever. O Cruel Desti­ny! O unaccountable Fatality! cry'd he one day prostrating himself at her Feet; Alass! when I think that I am arriv'd at the very Goal of Felicity, I find my self at the greatest distance from it. He had scarce utter'd these words but a paleness overspreading his Face, he fell into a Swoon. Mrs. Montberg be­ing startl'd at the suddenness of the thing threw cold Water in his Face, which prov­ing frutless, she rub'd his Hands and Tem­ples [Page 145] with the Queen of Sweden's Balsam, which is accounted most powerful against such Love-Fits. But neither was all this efficacious enough to cure him of his Distem­per, he wanted another sort of Remedy to be apply'd to him, which Lovers term in their Language, the extreme Unction of Love, or the charming Viaticum, which makes 'em dye the most pleasant Death that can be.

Our fair Lady, who did not know which way to turn her self, having no body to assist her, at last resolv'd to unbutton his Coat and Waste-coat, and to lay her Hand upon his Stomach, which felt somewhat cold; and having back'd her tender Caresses with a douzen or more hearty and sweet Kisses, these had the wish'd for effect, having soon a­waken'd our General out of his Love-trance, so that now he began to open his Eyes, which were half shut before. Then you are return'd from the other World, cry'd his Mistress, looking in his Face, if you were sensible how you have frighted me, you wou'd have prevented your Swooning thus: I did verily believe that you were gone to the Elysian Fields, but I now perceive your Hour was not yet come. Alass! my fair Angel, reply'd the Marshal with a very deep sigh, I am just ready to expire at your Feet, except you take pity of me. While he was speaking these last Words, he drew out a Knife all Bloody, which he had put in his Pocket on purpose, feigning that he [Page 146] was about to thrust it into his Heart. The Lady having snatch'd the Knife out of his Hands, and perceiving it all Bloody, was so extremely terrify'd at the sight of it, that she actually fell into a Swoon, out of which she did not recover till some con­siderable time after; she turn'd as pale as Death, not having the least sense left her, so that the Marshal, who was only in jest, had now made work enough for himself in good earnest. Having first try'd all possible means to recover her, which prov'd ineffectual, he was forc'd to call for assistance, and while they were coming, he did not let slip the opportunity of taking more freedome than her haughty temper wou'd have let him so much as sue for, at another time.

The Lady having been oblig'd to keep her Bed for some time, by reason of the weakness it caus'd in her, enquir'd after her Gallant, who being come, she enter­tain'd him with the most tender Expres­sions in the World: He who had now the Opportunity to rove about his Mistresses Bosom, to play with her two lovely plump Bubbies, and whiter than the very Snow, and to advance even as far as to the little Mount of Venus, where Love keeps its Throne, did answer to her obliging Expres­sions in so Passionate a manner; that shou'd any one have been an Eye-witness to 'em, [Page 147] they wou'd have believ'd him bewitch'd or turn'd Fool; and this was as I take it, the occasion of a rumour then spread all about Paris, that the Marshal de Boufflers, after the Battel of Fleurus, was so desperately fall'n in Love with a certain young Lady in Brabant, that he was quite Distracted; 'Tis probable that the General in one of his amourous Transports, had been the Occasion of hav­ing this jest put upon him, it being then the common discourse of the Town.

But to return to our charming young La­dy, who being now recover'd pretty well from her ilness, did receive every day more evident Proofs of the Marshal's Love. One After­noon having been oblig'd to leave her sooner than ordinary, because he was to assist at a Council of War, he was so di­stracted in his Mind, that when the Duke of Luxemburg ask'd his Advice concerning the business in hand; he answer'd him as if he had not been in his right Wits, at which the Duke having laugh'd heartily, Sir, said he, sure your Thoughts are so taken up with some Amourous Intreague, that it disturbs your Brains. By my Faith Sir, reply'd the Marshal de Boufflers, being much asham'd that they had discover'd his Distraction, and taking the Duke by the Hand, you speak truth, I am in Love with the most amiable Person in the VVorld, who has robb'd me of my Liberty. And who for God's sake, reply'd the Duke of [Page 148] Luxemburg, is this fair Lady, smiling. It is,—It is—It is—said Monsieur de Boufflers jesting, it is one Mistress Pretty Mount, some Spies coming into the Tent at the same time, broke off their further dis­course.

The next day, the Marshal de Luxemburg, and some other Officers came to give him a Visit in his Tent, where they began to jeer him about his new Mistress, whose true Name he was unwilling to declare to 'em. But Monsieur de Luxemburg told 'em, Let me alone Gentlemen, I'll engage that to Morrow you shall see that Beauty, whose Name you are so desirous to know. And he was as good as his word, for I know not by what sort of Magick, Mrs. Montberg appear'd there, asking for the Marshal de Boufflers. The dress she was in that day, made no small addition to the lustre of her Beauty, so that all the Generals were as much dazzl'd at the sight of her, as if she had been an Angel. This poor young Lady being incited by something she knew not what, to go and seek after her Gallant; at the sight of the Company, blush'd for shame; which having rais'd her Colour to its utmost perfection, it was so great an addition to her natural Complexion, that they were all strangely surpris'd at it. The Marshal de Boufflers being not insensible of the Confusion she was in, and much vex'd [Page 149] that she shou'd have committed such a fault, told her, as he was Conducting her home; VVhat was it my Dearest, that cou'd induce you to come and enquire for me in this crow'd? They are a Company of unlucky Birds, that always make it their business to ban­ter me, about those little Favours you are pleas'd to bestow upon me.

For GOD'S sake Sir, reply'd Mrs. Montberg, being vex'd to the very Soul, talk no more of this fatal moment. Some un­known evil Spirit did hurrye me on; I fansy'd that some Ghost or another did drive me to the place where you were, and I cannot devise what shou'd be the Original cause of this Inchantment; I may very well call it so, for I am sure I was forc'd to act contrary to my own Inclination. Good God! said she, shedding some Tears, that I shou'd go after a Man, and especially in that place where you were. Certainly I cou'd ne­ver be guilty of such indiscretion if I might gain the VVorld by the Bargain, and tho' I love you very affectionately, yet my Passion cou'd never have made me commit so irreparable, a fault. Now I think on't, there was the Duke of Luxemburg in your Company, who has the name of being the greatest Sorcerer in the VVorld, shou'd it not perhaps be that old Necromancer, who has play'd you this Game, on purpose to divert his Friends. Boufflers having ruminated for some time up­on what his Mistress had said, and being convinc'd that she had hit the Nail upon the [Page 150] Head, the Duke being taken for such a one, throughout the whole Army; did not think it convenient to put her any further into a fright; on the contrary, he endeavour'd to resettle her Mind, which was quite dis­compos'd by this unlucky Accident.

I am apt to believe my Child, continu'd the Marshal Caressing her, what you did was only out of an ardent desire to see me. No indeed my Dear, reply'd she smiling, I told you be­fore, that my Passion shou'd never be capable of carrying me so much out of the way of my Duty. If you are an Admirer of Secrecy in Love-con­cerns, so am I in no less a degree. What in the name of God, will these Gentlemen be apt to say about my enquiring after you with so much earnestness? Let 'em say what they please, re­ply'd Boufflers much vex'd, one thing is, they don't know you. But for that reason I wou'd not have you do so again another time. Oh! great God! cry'd the young Lady much di­sturb'd, I wish rather that I may dye the most cruel Death that can be invented, than to com­mit a second time such an horrible Fault; for God's sake, don't tell me any more of this fatal Accident, or I must leave you.

The Marshal perceiving the great distur­bance his Mistress was in, chang'd his dis­course into a Thousand amourous Prote­stations, and having again assur'd her of the Vehemency of his Passion, he left her and return'd to his Company. O brave [Page 151] Boufflers, said they laughing, thou art the hap­piest Man living, to enjoy so charming an ob­ject as this. I never saw, added Luxemburg, so Beautiful and engaging a Creature in my Life-time, and who deserves better to be ador'd by Men. The Marshal de Boufflers made no answer to what they said, on the contrary, he appear'd very Pensive and Melancholy; his Thoughts being wholly taken up with this spiteful trick of that old Devil the Duke of Luxemburg, unto whom he had hitherto bid defiance with all his Works. This General was so overjoy'd at the Victory obtain'd in the Plains of Fleurus, against the Prince of Waldeck, General of the Consederate Army, who had been forc'd to quit the Field of Battel; that he play'd a great many of these tricks, which were surprising to all that saw 'em; but they not having any relation to our pre­sent Subject, I will pass 'em by in silence: I shall only mention this by the by, that he was so confident of his ARt, that he at­tempted to restore to Life some of the chief Officers, who were Slain in the Battel, and among the rest the Marquess de Verderonne, whom he lov'd as dearly as his own Soul; but all his Magick was not powerful enough to reach so far, Almighty God having re­serv'd to himself that power of raising the Dead.

But it is time to return to our Marshal, [Page 152] who being extremely afraid lest the old Duke shou'd play him some other Game about his Mistress, was fain to carry matters very swimmingly with him; which the Duke having taken notice of, told him one Day, That he was sensible that he stood in awe of him, but that he needed fear nothing farther; for he was ready to give him his parole of Ho­nour, that he wou'd never be an Obstacle to his Amours, or engage in any thing else, which he thought might be troublesome to him. The Marshal de Boufflers being very well satisfy'd with these assurances receiv'd from the Duke, afterward pay'd his Visits to his Mistress, without any disturbance, in the same man­ner as he had done before.

But as all Human Affairs are Subject to perpetual change, so things did not remain between these two Lovers long in the same Station. Winter began to approach and Bou. cou'd no more than the rest of the Generals, avoid going to Paris; being therefore ob­lig'd to part from his dearly Beloved Mrs. Montberg, he took his leave of her with the greatest marks of grief imagnable; he wou'd fain have perswaded her to have pass'd five or six months away in Paris, but she wou'd by no means consent to it, pretending that she was oblig'd to visit that Winter, an Aunt of hers at Brussels, who was very de­sirous to see her. Our Lover was so sensibly afflicted at his approaching Separation, from [Page 153] a Person whom he lov'd with so much Pas­sion, that he fell Sick; but being by the care and assiudous Visits of his belov'd Mistress, soon restor'd to Health, he cou'd not think of parting so soon; it being a common Principle among Lovers, who Passionately Love one another, not to be able to en­dure a long Separation: But alass! within a few Weeks after, this young Lady, who had given such extraordinary Proofs of her Love to our General, fell Sick of a violent Fea­ver, of which she dy'd not long after. Ne­ver did any Man shew so much concern for a Mistress, as the Marshal de Boufflers: He did not stir from her one moment, and tho' her Distemper was not without some in­fection, nevertheless, as if he had been chain'd to her Bed-side, he was continually giving her what Comfort he cou'd, and tak­ing care that she took every thing exactly, according to the prescription of two or three Physicians, who came to Visit her every day: Finding her at last, pass'd all hopes of recovery, he had so much influence over her, that he prevail'd with her so far as to renounce the Protestant Religion, and to embrace the Roman Catholick; when she was just ready to expire in his Arms, re­commending her Body to his disposal after Death. But the Marshal, who was unwil­ling to take upon himself a charge of that Nature, gave orders to the Ghostly Fathers [Page 154] who attended upon her, to take care that her Funeral Rites shou'd be decently So­lemnis'd as soon as her Friends cou'd be pre­sent. In the meanwhile, not being able to see the Interrment of a Person whom he had so dearly lov'd: He set forward on his Journey the very next Morning early: The only thing he ask'd for, before his departure, from a Jacobine Father, whom he had en­trusted with all her Moveables, was a lit­tle Picture of her's, enamell'd very finely, which he did not part with, for a long time after.

Upon his arrival at Paris, every one was for putting hard upon the Marshal, with res­pect to his late Gallant Adventures, but he not being of a humour to be much disturb'd at a Jest, was forc'd to join issue with 'em in their Raillery; so that finding him insensible as to that point, they quickly grew weary of the Sport. He wore for some time, a se­cond Mourning Suit, very neatly trimm'd in remembrance of his Mistress, which pur­chas'd him the Favour of all the fine Lady's at Court, who were extreme'y well satisfy'd to see him shew so much esteem to the Me­mory of one of their Sex. For a considerable time after, if Madam de Maintenon, and Madam de Guise did but mention her, he wou'd sigh and burst out into Tears like a Child; so that 'twas not without great perswasions that at last they made him stop [Page 155] the Current of his Tears. The Winter pass'd thus without any further disturbance on the Marshal's side, his Heart still keeping the im­pression of his late belov'd Mistress, as some­thing precious, and not to be rac'd out in so small a space of time: For tho' there were several Lady's of Quality in Paris, who en­deavour'd to make him wear their Chains, yet he so vigourously oppos'd their Designs, that he gain'd the Victory over those, who wou'd willingly have conquer'd him, to make him their humble Adorer.

At the beginning of the next Spring, his most Christian Majesty having given Orders to his Generals for the besieging of Mons; the Capital City of the Province of Hainault: And being to go thither in Per­son, most of the Nobility at Court were to follow him: The Marshals and Dukes de Duras, de la Feuillade, de Luxemburg; the Princes de Soubise, and de Conti; the Dukes de Vendome and de Bourbon, the Marquesses de Joyeeuse, de Villars, and de Boufflers open'd the Campaign before the season the Year, was scarce fit for Travelling; the most Lady's of note wou'd not stay behind, but follow'd the Court. Then it was, that the Marshal de Boufflers was enamour'd with the Countess de—I hope the Reader will excuse me for not mentioning her name, for very weighty Reasons: This Lady hav­ing shew'd so much assiduity in her Love en­gagements [Page 156] with the Marshal, that sometimes they scarce gave themselves leasure to eat or to drink. In the mean time Monsieur de Buo­fflers, whom nothing ever was able to with­draw from his Prince's service, was oblig'd to go where Honour call'd him; he shun­ned neither Dangers nor Fatigues, to signalise himself upon all occasions, where Glory was to be purchas'd at the expence of his Blood. It was in one of those Engagements which was fought with a great deal of obstinacy on both sides, that he was Wounded with a Musquet-Ball in his Thigh, as well as the Duke de Montfort, who having secretly gi­ven notice of it to the Countess his Cousin, she took it so to Heart, that it seem'd as if she wou'd not have liv'd one Moment longer: But being a little recover'd from her first surprise, she was for revenging (with Sword in Hand) her Gallant's Quarrel; and as she was as dextrous at handling a Pistol and Sword, as one of the best Officers; she disguis'd her self in the Habit of an Officer, to come and visit the Marshal in his Tent: She was there three or four Days, before he had the least Suspicion of it, imagining that it was some young Officer, who upon this Occasion, was willing to purchase his Favour by his Services

One Day, our General's Wound being in pretty good Condition, he took a resolution to write two or three Lines to his new Mi­stress, [Page 157] whom he suppos'd to be at her own Lodgings near Mons, with the rest of the Lady's of her Acquaintance: When he had writ the Billet doux, he cast his Eyes upon that young Officer, who had been so ready about him, to carry it to this fair Lady: While he was writing, he cou'd not forbear to look upon him from time to time, speak­ing with himself: Can any thing be more like my Countess than this young Gentleman? He has the same charming Eyes, the same Features, and the very same Beautiful Complexion. Having made these Reflections to himself, he ask'd him, whe­ther he knew Madam de—. Yes, reply'd the Countess, who was so well disguis'd as not to be known by any one. I know her as well as my self, and I can assure you in her behalf, that she Loves you as well as her own Life. This Ans­wer savouring of so much Familiarity, somewhat startl'd our General, who told him, whom he took to be a Man, and pray Sir, who cou'd tell you this, has she made you her Con­fident? She has not told me in so plain Terms as I speak Sir, reply'd the Countess, but I might easily perceive by the trouble which your wound occasion'd in her Mind, that she was as deeply Wounded as your self; and tho' her wound appears to be but slight outwardly, her Heart is nevertheless most sensibly touch'd by a more dangerous Weapon, and—. Here the Marshal interrupting the young Officer, (according to outward appearance) since you know, said [Page 158] he, the Countess so well, pray deliver to her this Letter, which I give you; and tell her from me, that I most impatiently desire to see her.

The Lady, who admir'd her own dexterity in Personating herself so well as she did; took the Letter with a great of Respect, to carry it to his Mistress. But she was not gone far from the place, where she had left the Marshal de Boufflers, e'r she retir'd into an adjacent Wood, where having unfolded the Mystery of Love, with which she was en­trusted; she read these following Words:

After the Countess had read this Letter, which was altogether agreeable to her wishes; Is it possible, said she to her self, that thou my Dearest shoud'st not know me? It is four or five days, since I have been with thee in the same Tent; and does not thy Heart tell thee, that it is she that Loves thee? Alass! I have a great deal of Com­passion for thee, and I attribute this want of know­ing me, wholly to thy Distemper, which appears to me very violent, altho' it seems as if thou woud'st insinuate the contrary. And notwith­standing all the pains thou endurest, thou still keepest me in Remembrance; nay, thy Remem­brance is founded upon sincerity, I am my self an Eye-witness of this secret, which nevertheless, thou hast put into the Hands of an unknown Per­son. Thy Integrity and eager desire of hearing news from me, have made thee hazard all; but dost thou not O Soveraign King of my Heart, con­sider unto what dangers thou hast expos'd me, and that if my Husband shou'd discover the least of this Passion, that I have for thee, I am infal­libly [Page 160] undone: Thou know'st that he abominates Horns, and that nothing in the World cou'd touch him so sensibly, as to find himself a Cuckold, and especially to be so dignify'd by the means of such a one as thee, whose singular merits and charms he ought most to dread.

The Countess was making these and such like other Reflections, when the Marshal, who had taken a walk into the Wood for a­little Air, and being come by chance near the place where she had seated herself, understood some part of what she had said. Never was any agreeable Surprise greater than this, he having immediately known her Voice, which was then without disguise. Having embrac'd her several times, Is it you said he, is it you my adorable Angel? Unto what dangers do you expose your self for my sake? Alass! I am at present in an unspeakable pain for you. You see my Dearest, reply'd she with a languish­ing tone, what one is willing to do to enjoy the sight of an Object one Loves, and how a genu­ine Passion triumphs over all the most frightful Obstacles. I have hazarded all to see you, and I have Sacrifis'd even my Honour for your sake: I am ready to own it Madam, said the Ge­neral kissing one of her pretty Hands, which she had given him without a Glove; And I protest to you, that I at the same time acknowledge my self unworthy of these Favours you bestow upon me. I Will en­deavour to give you the most sensible and live­vely [Page 161] Marks of my Gratitude. Some Officers, who were at the same time walking in the Wood, and knew Monsieur de Boufflers, com­ing up towards 'em, broke off the Intercourse of our Lovers for that Time. The Countess, who was afraid of being discover'd, made the best of her way to her own Lodgings, being well satisfy'd that she had seen and spoke to her Gallant, who was not long with­out repaying her Visit. When this Lady went first from her Lodgings, she told her Gentlewomen and the rest of her Domestick Servants, That she was going to see one of her Acquaintance, who was in a Monastery near Mons; which was the Reason, that du­ring her Stay with our General, which was a­bout Five or six Days, they were not disturb'd at her Absence. She had made one of her Waiting Gentlewomen, whose Name was Gvisson, and one whom she had a more parti­cular Respect for than all the rest, her Confi­dent in the Business; she waited upon her in one Corner of the Wood, with her Woman's Apparel, which she had there chang'd for the Man's Cloaths he had worn before. Thus our Heroine Lady return'd Home to her Lodgings, accompany'd only by this Damsel, leaning upon her Arm as if she had been the most harmless Creature in the World, and as if, during her Stay, she had employ'd her Time in nothing else but pray­ing [Page 162] with those Religious Sisters for the Pre­servation of her Husband, from the immi­nent Dangers of War.

The Marshal de Boufflers, after he had got clear from the other Officers that met him in the Wood, spent all that Night under most terrible Agonies, not knowing what was become of his Mistress, whom he had search'd for all over the Forest; but no sooner did the next Morning appear, but to ease himself of the Trouble which distracted his Mind, he mounted on Horse-back, steer­ing his Course directly to the Place where he knew his Beloved lodg'd all that Time. He found his lovely Countess as yet in Bed, who having receiv'd him with incredible Joy, and clos'd him between her Arms, told him a thousand passionate things, in Terms so engaging and charming, that they are past all Expression, except by him who had the good Fortune to be made sensible of 'em. Nothing cou'd appear more Charming than she did, as she lay in Bed: A careless Head-dress, ty'd behind with a Carnation Ribbon, in the nature of a single Top-knot, together with a sweet engaging Air, which was natu­ral to her, made her appear the most lovely Woman in the Universe. The Marshal hav­ing now met with a favourable Opportuni­ty to enjoy the happy Minute, told Guisson, who had introduc'd him that Morning to [Page 163] the Countess, Mademoiselle, Let me be with your Lady for two or three Hours in private, because I have some Matters of Moment to im­part to her. This young Damsel, who very well understood his Meaning, ask'd her Mi­stress, Whether she wou'd have her withdraw? Yes, said the Lady, and if any shou'd come to enquire for me this Morning, tell 'em, That I am indispos'd and not to be spoke with at pre­sent.

The Young Woman, having receiv'd her Lady's Orders, left the Room, and our Mar­shal finding himself now at liberty, threw himself upon the Bed, by his fair Lady, kissing and embracing her without Intermissi­on; and finding nothing that was likely to obstruct his Passage, if he advanc'd farther, he, in very passionate Terms, begg'd of her, to grant him the last Favour. Alas! cry'd she, half vanquish'd, and entangl'd in his Embraces, Who can deny you any thing, my Dear? Alas! I am ready to faint, pray pity my Weakness! Oh! what ravishing joys, my Soul, my Soveraign! The Marshal, now in the midst of his Enjoyments, thought himself the hap­piest Man in the World, and keeping her still in his Arms, protested to her with a great ma­ny Oaths, That he never in all his Life-time had receiv'd so much Satisfaction as with her. He desir'd her, after having by a thousand Oaths assur'd her of his Fidelity, and that he [Page 164] wou'd love her for ever, To keep their Intriegue secret, and to let no Body in the World know of it, lest that if the Count de—should get the least scent of it, it might prove of dangerous consequence both to her and himself, who cou'd not suffer her to be misus'd by a Jealous Hus­band. The Countess told him, with a Kiss, That he needed not in the least fear her; that she did not admire Confidents in Love,; that she was so tender as to this Point, that she scarce trusted her own Heart, lest it should betray her.

These Assurances were sign'd by both Par­ties several times over, and the poor Coun­tess, who was of a very tender Constitution, seal'd 'em with some Drops of her Blood, in hopes that their mutual Promises shou'd outlast their Lives.

The Marshal, now more contented than a Prince, left his Beloved in Bed, having re­iterated his Promise, to come and see her often. But before a few Days were pass'd, the King being dissatisfy'd with the Inhabi­tants of Liege, who had by some Acts of Hostility incurr'd his utmost Displeasure, order'd, That some Batteries should be rais'd against that City, and the whole Management of this Affair being left to the Conduct of the Marshal de Boufflers, he prepar'd himself to put his Orders in execution against Whit­sontide. Our General having therefore ta­ken Leave of his Countess, and repeated his [Page 165] former Assurances of an everlasting Love, Bombarded the City of Liege for Two or three Days, causing a great Consternation among the Inhabitants, very many of whom were ruin'd by it. But, while he was taken up in this Expedition, the Count—carry'd his Lady back to Paris, and tho' he shew'd her all the Complaisance imaginable, yet she, who cou'd not think upon, nor be pleas'd with any thing but her Gallant, receiv'd all her Husband's Caresses very coldly. The Count, who was not insensible of her In­differency, and lov'd her extremely, was ready to dye with Vexation, not imagining that she cou'd love any one but himself, af­ter he had so much advanc'd her Fortune; he having marry'd her not for her Portion or extraordinary Quality, but merely for her Beauty; she being, by Birth, the Daughter only of a Private Gentleman in Poictou.

But, to return to our Lady, who never having had any great Love for her Husband, was easily comforted for his Death, which happen'd soon after; pleasing her self with a Fancy, That the Marshal de Boufflers wou'd marry her, conformably to those passionate Protestations he had often made to her: But she was much deceiv'd in her Aim; for having notify'd to him the Death of her Husband, in such Terms as were convincing enough to the Marshal, That she lov'd him [Page 166] sufficiently to invest him with the same Qua­lity; he turn'd the whole into Raillery, and answer'd her in Terms full of Equivo­cations; which most sensibly afflicted her: And the Marshal, who after the Campaign was ended, return'd to Paris, told her with his own Mouth, That he cou'd not as yet re­solve to Marry; but that this shou'd not hinder him from loving her as well as if she were his Wife, and more; for, said he, Marriage often suppresses the vehemency of Love, and sometimes quite extinguishes its Flame. But these Rea­sons were not cogent enough to make her lay aside the Thoughts she had of Marrying him. On the contrary, she conceiv'd such an Aver­sion toward him, perceiving her self thus despis'd, after she had done so much for him, that Hatred succeeded in her Heart instead of Love, to that degree, that she refus'd to see him; nay, she wou'd not so much as hear him spoke of, as if his very Name were terrible to her: Which vex'd the Mar­shal to the very Heart, who lov'd her to the highest degree, notwithstanding he cou'd not resolve to make her his Spouse.

One Day, as he was walking in the King's Gardens at Versailles, it being a very fair Day, he espy'd from far his Countess's Coach; and drawing nearer, and finding no Body in it but one of her Footmen, he ask'd him where his Lady was; who having told [Page 167] him, That she was taking a Turn in one of the Walks of the Gardens, with the Marchi­oness de lae Mothe, the Marshal, with all pos­sible haste, made up to the Place where his fair Lady was: But being willing to over­hear their Discourse, he hid himself behind some Trees, hard by where they were walk­ing, and heard the Countess de—who was wiping her Tears away with her Handkerchief, say thus to the Marchioness: My dearest, let us bury my Misfortune in Obli­vion; 'tis pass'd Expression, when I consider what I have done for that ungrateful Man; the very Thoughts of whom now are frightful to me. This perfidious Wretch has not only given me his Word, but sworn a thousand Oaths; That, if the Chance of War should happen to take off my Husband, I shou'd alone dispose of his Destiny. But, good God! continu'd she, what is become of all those Oaths? He says he loves me more than ever, and yet refuses to keep his Promise.

You are a very good-natur'd Lady indeed, re­ply'd the Marchioness de la Mothe, laughing, are you to learn yet, that Promises made by Lovers have nothing of Reality in 'em, they being founded upon a Passion which goes as fast as it comes; and consequently all the Oaths they make return to their first Principle; which is next to nothing, being only a Fan­cy, and what Woman of any Sense would [Page 168] lay the least stress upon 'em? As for my part, continu'd she, I shou'd make no more of losing a Gallant, than to part with one of my Ribbons. I hope you are not in earnest thus to torment your self for a Loss, which is not worth taking notice of. Come, come, Madam, so beautiful a Lady as you need not want Gallants, if you have a Mind to be troubl'd with 'em. This is not enough, Madam, reply'd the Countess, sighing, but all Men don't please us alike. I am sensi­ble what a difficult Task it was for me to shew so much Complaisance as I did, to my deceas'd Husband, whom I lov'd but indiffe­rently; and therefore I wou'd fain, if I cou'd, avoid to undergo the same Trouble. But how ingenious I am at tormenting my self, cry'd she, looking towards the Place where the Marshal had hid himself, Let us strive, my Heart, to do Violence to our own Incli­nation, let us not think any more of the Ra­visher of our Liberty. Oh Heavens! what do I see? said the Lady all on a sudden, Is not that this faithless Man, whose Love hss cost me so many Sighs? The Marchioness perceiving the Marshal coming up towards her, follow'd the Countess, who run with all Speed towards her Coach, and having order'd the Coachman to drive as fast as he cou'd to Paris, she with a disdainful Frown drew up the Glass, and away they went.

[Page 169] The Marshal thinking himself above her Scorn, and being by this time got on Horse-back, rode close after the Coach, and hav­ing presented one of his Pistols at the Coach-man, Stop, said he, stop you Dog, or else I'll shoot you thro' the Head. The Poor Fellow, being extremely terrify'd, leapt out of the Coach-box, leaving the Coach to the Mar­shal's Disposal; who having put one of his Servants, who had been with him at Boulogne, (a small Village near Paris,) in his Place, made him stop at the next Inn. The La­dies, that hitherto had not seen who it was that pursu'd 'em, and had made most la­mentable Outcries, all a-long the Road, were much surpris'd when they saw the Marshal de Boufflers; for imagining that it was some of their Gallants, who intended to carry 'em away, they had not had the Cou­rage till now to lift up their Eyes. At that same instant, all the Countess's Hatred sud­denly vanish'd; she gave her Hand to the Marshal, who led her out of the Coach into one of the best Appartments of the House. The Marchioness perceiving this sudden Change in her Friend, did not say one Word, but pray'd one of the Footmen, who had been all-a-long behind the Coach, to drive her away to Paris, and that he might return immediately afterwards to fetch his Lady.

[Page 170] Thus the Marshal having got his Mistress by himself, cou'd not forbear laughing at this bold stroak he had made, knowing that it had often stood him in good stead before, upon the like Occasions: Well, Madam, said he, looking upon her stedfastly, you are now in my Power; cou'd you imagine that af­ter we have been so closely acquainted you might disintangle your self with so much Ease? La­dies that love Gallantry as well as you do, ought not to carry Matters so haughtily; your manner of Proceeding appears very unseasonable. And, after all, what is it I have done to you? continu'd he, with a somewhat more com­pos'd Countenance; I have lov'd you very tenderly, and love you still, in spite of all your Scorn. You have propos'd Marriage to me, and you don't know the Reasons why it was not in my Power to comply with your Desires in that particular. You may possibly tell me, That where there is a great deal of Love, Reason seldom takes Place, but as my Circumstances are at present, I am oblig'd to consult Reason, and to tell you, That I cannot Marry at this Time. If you have the least Kindness for me, you'll easily perswade your self, That all that was in my Power to do for you, I have done already.

The Countess was not capable of giving him one Word in answer, her Speech being stopt by a Torrent of Tears, which she [Page 171] shed: Notwithstanding all these disadvan­tages, she still appear'd to the Marshal one of the most lovely Women in the World, And as he has always a great Tenderness for the fair Sex, so he cou'd not but endeavour to allay her Grief. He threw himself at her Feet, and embracing 'em, My Angel, my Dearest, said he, 'tis impossible for me to see you thus torment your self, let us par­don one another all those Crimes which have made us both culpable. Grant me your Par­don, and I will grant you mine, and freely for­give those charming Eyes of yours which have set me all in a Flame, and do you forgive these tender Expressions, which were the true Interpreters of my Heart; it did not address it self to you, most charming Creature, ad­ded he, in a very passionate Tone, be­fore it had consulted yours, which it found so worthy of its Choice and Affection.

The Lady, whom the great Surprise she was in, had kept silent till now, was not able to hold out any longer against the Power of such Charms and tender Caresses of a Lover, who was belov'd by her, but was forc'd to yield, in spite of all her Indifferency, which she had shewn to him in outward Appearance. 'Tis in vain, my Dear, reply'd she at last, that I endeavour to hate thee; thou know'st how to disarm me by thy most engaging Charms, [Page 172] and my Heart, as soon as it sees thee, loses all its Force, which it shou'd make use of against thee. Away, away, said she, with all my Haughtiness and Scorn, you only serve to add Fuel to my Flame, and to render my Passion more violent than before. To be short, my illustrious Lover, added she, throw­ing her self about his Neck, and squees­ing him between her Arms, I love thee, and all the Considerations in the World shall not be powerful enough to separate us for the fu­ture, [...]nd not so much as for one Moment. I will leave it to your Judgment to guess what past afterwards between two Persons who lov'd one another with so much Passion.

By this time, Night beginning to ap­proach, the Countess began to be unea­sie, not because she was with her Gallant, who entertain'd her with so much sweet­ness, but because she heard no News of her Coach, and that she thought it wou'd look very ill in her, not to return to Paris that Night; she was just a talking of it, as much as she thought convenient to the Mar­shal, when putting her Head out of the Window, by chance, she saw one of her Footmen coming, who told her, That the Coach was ready at the Door; And what is become of Adventure? (which was the Coachman's Name who run away out of the Box before) cry'd the Lady very an­gry, [Page 173] What is become of that Coxcomb? I can't tell, Madam, reply'd the Footman, we have heard nothing of him since his over­hasty Flight. Certainly, reply'd the Coun­tess with a Smile, he did not act very dis­creetly, in leaving me thus; but 'tis you, Mar­shal, said she, that is the occasion of all. By my Faith, Madam, reply'd Bousflers, if your Coachman has no more Courage than he has shewn to Day, he is a most damnable Coward; is it possible that a single Pistol should frighten a Man out of his Wits? If I saw an hundred Fire locks discharg'd at me at once, they should n'er make me shrink. All the World has not such a warlike Soul as you, my Dear­est, said the Countess; you were born to conquer the Ʋniverse, and to make every thing submit to you; your Power even ex­tends it self over me and—Here she stopt, not thinking it convenient to proceed in her Discourse, by reason of the Footman, who stood by, and heard what they said; but having order'd him to withdraw, she renew'd her Love-Protestations, and began to prepare for going; but the Marshal, who did not intend to part with her as yet, detayn'd her for some time longer, telling her, That since he had frighted her Coachman away, he wou'd supply his Place himself; which he accordingly did: For having pay'd the Reckoning, he wrapt himself up in his [Page 174] Scarlet-Cloak, and drove the Coach to Pa­ris, as well as if the Coach-man himself had been in the Box; it being dark Night she was not disturbed at the Frolick, but being come to her Lodgings, she entreated the Marshal to stay with her at Supper. All her domestick Servants were extremely sur­pris'd at this sudden Change: What an al­teration is this, said they to one another; our Lady, not long ago wou'd not so much as hear him nam'd in her presence, nor wou'd allow us to speak of him, and now he seems to be as much in her savour as ever. But Mrs. Guisson, her Lady's Confident, guess'd without much difficulty at the true reason of it, not que­stioning but that there had been a reconcilia­tion between 'em.

After Supper, the Marshal stay'd for a con­siderable time with his Mistress, in her Bed­chamber; where they began afresh to argue the true Reason of their Quarrel; they being now at Liberty to talk with more freedom, than they cou'd do at Boulogne, where they were in danger of being overheard by every one belonging to the House. The La­dy then, no longer making any difficulty of disclosing her Heart to the Marshal, and their mutual Reconciliation, having been Seal'd by some Kisses, he left her to her Repose. But, alas! in vain; the poor La­dy was not capable of enjoying one mo­ments [Page 175] Rest. The surprise of this last Adven­ture, and that too by a Man whom she had resolv'd to Banish from her Heart for ever; together with the behaviour of the Marchio­ness de la Mothe, who had left her to the Mer­cy of a Gentleman, whom she cou'd not but know to be very dangerous to her Repose, had most horribly distracted her Mind: She made a thousand Reflections upon the strange­ness of the Accident, and not being able to be at rest at home, she went the next day to pay the Marchioness a Visit, who did not fail to upbraid her with her wanton Humour. How, said the Marchioness, in a most scorn­ful manner, are not you that same Lady, who wou'd never see Monsieur Boufflers any more; nay, that wou'd not so much as hear any one speak of him; and scarce had you cast one Eye at him, but without any further consideration, you threw your self into his Embraces? I can­not deny it, Madam, reply'd the Countess, not without some Confusion; but what is it one will not do when one is in Love; alas! Love makes us all subject to Frailties, and that to such a degree, that we scarce know what we do. Alas! good Heavens! the Marshal, at his first sight, disarms me entirely and makes me, in spite of all my anger, recal all my former Re­solutions, which immediately vanish in his pre­sence. I know, Madam, reply'd the Marchi­oness, that he will prove very dangerous to your [Page 176] repose, and therefore you ought to force your tender Inclinations; you ought not to surrender your Heart upon so easie Terms, after he has had the boldness to carry you away along with me, who did not know him any farther than by sight. His manner of proceeding savours of too much familiarity, and a Person of his Cha­racter ought to have treated us with more Res­pect. My greatest trouble, my Dearest, said the Countess, interrupting her, was, that you shou'd leave me to the management of a Man of his Humour. Come, come, Madam, re­ply'd the Marchioness maliciously, I was well enough satisfi'd that you were very well ac­quainted with him before; and that his Court­ships were not disagreeable to your Inclinations: 'Tis not since Yesterday, that you have perceiv'd his Amourous motions: You are not ignorant of his intentions; you are not insensible how far he is likely to carry it; and whatever you may pre­tend to the contrary, I am not bound to take your word as to this particular. When any Per­sons are in Love, they seldom think themselves oblig'd to speak truth; they take delight in dis­guising the matter, and upon the whole, I am of opinion, that no account ought to be made of any thing that they assert. The Marchio­ness de la Mothe wou'd not have stop't here, but that one of her Acquaintance coming in, very earnestly entreated her to go with her to hear a Sermon at Versailles. The [Page 177] Countess, who wou'd rather have staid at home, went along with her more out of Policy than Devotion, and in the evening, being return'd to her Lodgings, the Marshal de Boufflers, after he had for some time enter­tain'd her with his Passion; told her, that his most Christian Majesty design'd to be­siege Namur (the Capital City of the Pro­vince of that Name) this Year, which was that of 1692. and that, to facilitate this De­sign; his Majesty intended to go thither in Person, with the Dauphin and the rest of the principal Officers of his Court.

You will, without doubt, my Dear, reply'd she very Sorrowfully, have your share in this glorious Enterprize; and perhaps I may be so unfortunate as to hear of your Death, which will unavoidably hasten my own: What wou'd you have me do, Madam, reply'd the General, with a serious Countenance, I am oblig'd to obey my King's Orders; If it shou'd be my fortune to perish in this Campaign, continu'd he, I shall dye your Lover; and I hope you will take care that Prayers may not be wanting for my poor Soul, which per­haps will be fluttering about in the airy Re­gions, without finding any repose: O good Sir, reply'd the Lady, don't be prepossess'd with any such thoughts, that cannot but be de­structive to your own welfare. We Religious Sisters will take care of you, we'll prepare [Page 178] your Soul for Paradise: O Lord! Madam, said he, I hope you'll pardon me, If I can scarce believe it; how is it possible that such a Devil as I, whose whole practice has been the destruction of Mankind by Fire and Sword, shou'd be sav'd from Hell; tho' I have heard some say, that there is a particular place of Rest appointed for us Soldiers, but who can rely upon such fantastick Notions? I am afraid I shall be leisurely Roasted by the heat of Purga­tory, the Flames of which as they tell me, surpass in fierceness all the artificial Fires in the World. How foolish you are, Boufflers, answer'd the Countess, thus to fill your head with such Me­lancholy Thoughts: Don't you know that our good Works will deliver us both from the Fire of Purgatory, and of Hell? And as you have done more good than bad Deeds, I don't ques­tion, but that you'll pass directly to Paradise. But let us have no more of this; pray who are to be the General Officers, that are to Com­mand this Year under the King and Dau­phin?

Madam, reply'd the Marshal, these are to be; the Count d' Auvergne, the Marshal de Humieres, the Princes de Soubise and Con­de, and his eldest Son, the Duke de Villeroy, and a great many more, whom it wou'd be superfluous to name to you, in regard that you have not the least concern with 'em. 'Tis true, my Dear, reply'd the Countess sigh­ing, [Page 179] I don't pretend to any interest, but what I have in you, and good God! what a trouble wou'd it be to me, if I shou'd chance to lose you? Are not you a very pretty Gentlewoman? said the Marshal smiling, I'm sure I know the time, when you wou'd not have said so: How often have you, when you were in your freekish humours, wish'd that the Earth might open to swallow me up; how often have you call'd me ungrateful Wretch, Monster, Vil­lain, and such like fine Names? These are the Weapons of an angry Woman. Oh! how ex­tremely does your Sex take delight in Revenge? If you had the same strength in your Arms, that you have in your Tongue, you wou'd de­feat an Army of ten Thousand Men, in an hours time. I take it to be a very great misfortune for a Man to have a Woman for his Ene­my; as for my own part, I wou'd rather be oblig'd to fight against a whole Battalion of Enemies, than to stand the brunt of so Beau­ful a Lady as you, when put into a Passion. Do but see how cruelly you deal with us; you are not content to overthrow us by the force of your Charms, but you wou'd also trample upon us by your Threats, and drive us to the utmost Extremity of Despair. But e're I leave Paris, I'm resolv'd to make you lower your Topsail, and to bring you to more reasonable terms.

[Page 180] Your presence alone, said the fair Lady with a charming Air, is capable of making me do whatever you shall think fit. I can compare it to nothing so appositely, as to that Head of Medusa, which Metamorphos'd every thing, and chang'd its Situation: I have often taken a resolution to hate you as long as I shou'd live, and no sooner had I seen you, but all my Aver­sion to your Person, and my seemingly firm Resolutions immediately vanish'd. 'Tis not long ago, since the Marchioness de la Mothe up­braided me with this frailty: How, Madam, reply'd the Marshal briskly, that remedy a­aginst Love, durst she talk thus to you? Certainly, continu'd he laughing, a Man must be very hard put to it for a dainty Bit, that wou'd venture to thrust his Dagger into her Scab­bard, Vah! that nasty hole, if I may believe the description which the Abbot de la Trape has given me of it. This Prior has sworn to me, that he never met with so ugly, black and deep a Gap in his Life-time. Fie, Boufflers, said the Countess, as if she had been dis­pleas'd at his Discourse; are not you asham'd thus to represent that pretty retiring Place of the Marchioness, as she her self usually calls it when she is in a good humour; and truly, if she knew you thought otherwise of it, I can assure you, you wou'd be but a very unwelcome Guest to her. She told me one day, that the Abbot de la Trape, of whom you spoke just [Page 181] now, had indeed once set up his Candle be­fore her Altar, and had Sacrifis'd upon his Knees in her presence. Then Monsieur Boufflers interrupting her; 'tis a pleasant subject to insist upon, said he, the Devil take me, if this Lady wou'd let me—I wou'd ra­ther chuse a Cow for a Play-fellow: But away with it, let us talk no more of it, for I be­gin to be sick at the very Heart. It is you, said he, my lovely Creature, embracing her, that carry about you that sweet retiring Place, which is the very Seat of Delight and Plea­sure: I am very sensible of the tenderness of your Heart, which rewards it's Friends with ple­nary satisfaction. 'Tis true what you say, an­swer'd she, this is the chiefest Ambition which I ever pretended to.

This Conference wou'd have lasted long­er, if one of the Marshal's Servants had not come to tell him, that Madam de Maintenon was desirous to speak with him, as 'twas suppos'd by the King's Order, he having been wholly employ'd for several days af­ter, in assisting at the frequent Councils of War, that were then held at Versailles. A few Weeks after, he was oblig'd to enter upon the Campaign, which began very ear­ly this Year. The King to encourage his Generals, march'd in Person at the head of his Army; and Namur was Besieg'd in the Month of May, in the Year 1692. as it has [Page 182] been already intimated; and the Trenches being open'd before it, between the Twenty ninth and Thirtieth, the Place was carry'd by Capitulation. The Marshal did signalise himself there at several Times, as did also the Marquess de la Valette and de Gasse, Mar­shals de Camp; after the surrender of the Town, both the Armies remain'd for some Time without Action; during which Inter­val, the Marshal de Boufflers was captivated by the Beauty of a certain young Gentlewo­man, who was retiring, with her Mother, into a Nunnery, and by the King's express Command pass'd through the Camp, in or­der to go to a certain Abby of Religi­ous Sisters. At the very first Sight of this young Lady, who was of good Qua­lity and extraordinary Beautiful, he was touch'd with so tender Love and Respect for her, that for a considerable Time he cou'd not be at rest; and that which vex'd him most was, that she was in a Place where he had not the Opportunity to see her, when he had a Mind to it. At last, being grown impatient, at the Absence of his Be­lov'd Mistress, and consulting more his Passion than his Reason, he resolv'd to dis­guise himself in Woman's Apparel, on purpose to give her a visit.

[Page 183] Having in this Disguise met her in the Parlour of the Nunnery, he did not delay to declare his Passion to her; unto which she answer'd with so much Modesty, that he was extremely charm'd with it. After his Departure, his Mistress thought it most advisable not to speak any thing of her dis­guis'd Lover, either to her Mother, or the rest of the Religious Sisters, for fear of put­ting some Jealousie into their Brains, by which means she might lose the Advantage of entertaining him another Time. The next Day our General, being advertis'd that her Mother wou'd be abroad, had the Satis­faction to visit his Mistress in her Chamber, which was just at the Entrance of the Abby; and the rest of the Nuns believing it to be some particular Acquaintance of her's, did not concern themselves any farther, allow­ing him the Freedom of enjoying the Pre­sence of his Beloved for the space of Two Hours. I leave it to the Judgment of the Reader to determine, whether he did not make use of all the affectionate Expressions, which his Passion cou'd suggest to him; but this I have understood since, That one of the Religious Sisters, whose Name was Coline, and who supply'd the place of an Apothecary in the Abbey, had espy'd (in passing by her Chamber into the Garden, where she was going to gather some Herbs) [Page 184] the Marshal kneeling down before her, and kissing her Hands. For this Reason it was that this Bigot, suspecting somewhat of the Matter, let the Marshal, who in two or three Days return'd to renew his Visit, stand at the Door almost an Hour, without opening it; the Marshal, suspecting the Truth, made such a Noise, with the Bell, at the Abbey-Gate, that all the Religious Sisters came running down Stairs, and pe­remptorily demanded what his Business was? I wou'd willingly reply'd he, counterfeiting his Voice, speak to Mademoiselle Orton (which was the Name of his Mistress.) The young Lady, being then call'd for, receiv'd him very courteously, but with some Restraint, her Mother, and Sister Coline being present. The Marshal, after a little Stay, finding himself so narrowly watch'd, thought it best to de­camp for that Time, and to defer his Court­ship till a more favourable opportuni­ty.

No sooner was he gone, but Madam Orton ask'd her Daughter, How she came acquainted with this Gentlewoman? Mo­ther, reply'd she, she is a certain young La­dy of a very good Family of Namur, who has a great Affection for me. Sister Coline standing by, began to smile at her Answer, which made her Mother ask the Name of this Lady. This Question put her to a [Page 185] great Non plus, because the Marshal and she had not agreed upon any certain Name; yet having a good presence of Mind, she told her Mother, not without blushing, That her Name was Mademoiselle de Bouffline, be­ing a Kinswoman of the Marshal de Boufflers, of whom they had receiv'd so many Courte­sies, during the Siege of Namur. Her Mo­ther having as yet in fresh Remembrance the great Obligations receiv'd from the Marshal, ask'd no further Questions, being well sa­tisfy'd with this Answer. If Sister Coline, that spiteful Baggage, wou'd have been as much contented, Matters were likely to go very well upon Mademoiselle Orton's Side. But that Demi-Devil, having taken notice that he was a Man in Woman's Apparel, communicated her Thoughts to two or three more of the Religious Sisters, who unanimously resolv'd at his next approach to have him search'd, by a certain ancient Ma­tron belonging to the Nunnery, who shou'd watch his coming to adore his Goodess; and indeed, they were no worse than their Words, for he had not long been there, but he saw a grave old Woman entring the Room, with a great pair of Spectacles upon her Nose, and a large pair of Scissors in her Hand, follow'd by a goodly Train of Nuns of the same Abbey. The Marshal seeing himself destitute of all Arms, even so much as a [Page 186] Stick, began to be afraid of their Motion, and made what haste he cou'd to get to the Door. Being got pretty well clear of 'em, No, no, good Matrons, said he to himself, I am not as yet fond of being gelt. I know what your Design was, you wou'd have cut off what you found did not belong to the Female Sex, because I had been so bold as to come in without your Leave: Otherwise, I'm sure, if a Gentleman gives you a private Visit, with your own Consent, you wou'd not upon any ac­count treat him so unkindly.

Mademoiselle Orton seeing her self, by this Contrivance, bereav'd of the Sight of her Gallant, appear'd much discontented at his Absence, and having no other means left her, she went one Morning to Mass to an­other Abby, where she had the good For­tune to meet with him: She told him all that she had endur'd ever since she saw him last; advising him to come and see her in the Nunnery, without a Disguise: Adding, That her Mother wou'd be ex­tremely glad to see him, to pay her Ac­knowledgments for the great Obligations she had receiv'd from him. You must be sure, said she, to talk of Love to the rest of the Sisters, for they take great Delight in having a Man touch upon that String. The Marshal, after having parted with his Beloved, began to consider with himself, for some time, [Page 187] whether it were expedient for him to return to the same Place, where he had been so lately in danger of suffering an irreparable Loss; but Love soon prevail'd o'r all other Considerations, especially being animated by the Hopes of obtaining his Aim, if he went without Disguise, insomuch that be­sides his Sword, he took care to provide a Pair of Pocket-Pistols, and having taken along with him a lusty Fellow, his Servant, arm'd Capapee, he enter'd the Abby with an undaunted Courage. The Nuns quickly taking notice of a Man of so gallant and en­gaging an Air, came all to receive him, mak­ing him Presents of diverse Relicks and Agnus Dei's, and among the rest one of the Religious Sisters, as fair and bright as the Day, presented to him, a Heart made of her own Hair, which was all over pierc'd with Darts.

The Marshal having discover'd the Advan­tages of this Charming Beauty, which had enchanted him even at the very first Sight, soon became forgetful of Madem­oiselle Orton. He frequently repair'd to the Nunnery, where he wou'd entertain sometimes one, sometimes another, but his Fransson (which was the beautiful Nun I spoke of before) was all his Delight and Comfort. Her Companions were so trans­ported with Jealousie, that one Day they [Page 188] threw an Ink horn full of Ink in her Face, on purpose to disguise it; which being told to the Mother Abbess, she made 'em do Penance for their Trespass, enjoyning 'em for Eight Days together to dig the Ground, and to manure it with their bare Hands till it shou'd be as fine as Ashes. Besides this, they were to draw out of a deep Pit ten Tuns of Water into a leaky Vessel, which run out as fast as they pour'd it in. The Marshal was overjoy'd to see what Satisfaction his Mistress had receiv'd for the Affront put upon her, but to counterballance his Joy, he was much surpris'd to hear the Mother Ab­bess (who was above Threescore Years of Age) tell him, That she was fall'n despe­rately in Love with him. Indeed he was so amaz'd at it, that he stept two or three Paces backward, and if he had not been up­held by a Table that stood behind him, he wou'd have scarce been able to keep him­self upright. The good Woman took so much Pains to represent to him the vehemen­cy of her Passion, in Terms so lively and natural, that he stood quite astonish'd at it. Perhaps it will not be improper to give you a Character of this old Hag. She was of a very small Stature, and crooked; her Nose very short; her Eyes and Mouth big­ger than all the rest of her Face; her Fore-head about the Bigness of a Finger's Breadth, [Page 189] and two great Teeth stuck out of her Mouth before; but for the rest, she was very inge­nious, and had an extraordinary Wit. She made a very fine Sonnata concerning her Passion for the General, which begins thus, I having forgot the rest.

The Marshal was very hardly put to it how to manage so unusual a Love-concern with this old Beldam, whom he was unwill­ing to disoblige, in regard that she was the supreme Governess of the Nunnery; when one Day, not being able to have any longer Patience to expect his Resolution, she laid hold of him in a Corner, as he was going to a Chamber of one of the Nuns, where she hugg'd him so closely with her two raw­bon'd Arms, which were as tough as Sticks, that 'twas impossible for him to get loose from her Embraces. The Marshal being afraid that some of the Sisters might surprise 'em told her, Pray, good Mother, do your Matters a little more in private, for fear of [Page 190] giving Scandal. You are in the right on't, my Son, cry'd she, drawing him by main Force into a Closet, hard by, where she begg'd him, Not to deny her any longer that Favour which she so much wish'd for. And what Favour is that? said the Marshal de Boufflers, laughing. That is my Son, con­tinu'd she, shaking her Head, to put your Sword here, after I have besprinkl'd it with Holy Water, to drive away the Evil Spirit (for so the Nuns of Namur usually call Love) that thus torments me. The Marshal, who cou'd not but understand her Meaning, and being uncertain what to resolve upon. You strangle me! don't strangle me! and so having shut his Eyes, Come, said he, let us enter the Breach, in the Dark; all Cats are Grey. The Mother Abbess, who was extremely well satisfy'd, desir'd him to renew the Attack the next Day; but he was not so well pleas'd with the first, and therefore having made the Sign of the Cross all over him, he said, in a Language unknown to her, Away from me Satan. The good Woman being exaspe­rated at this Repulse, flung her self about his Neck, laying her Fists about his Ears: All which he took very patiently, but perceiv­ing that she was about to vent her Anger up­on his Perriwig and Ruffles, he turn'd up her Back-side, and having soundly clapp'd her Buttocks, which were as red and lean as [Page 191] an Ape's; the whole Nunnery was alarm'd at the Outcries: The Nuns came running, with all possible speed, to the Chamber of their Abbess, whom they found crying like a Child, whilst the Marshal was not able to forbear laughing, and to save himself was oblig'd to tell the whole Story. Where­upon the Old Beldam took it so heinously, that not being able any longer to bear the Confusion she was in, and the Reproaches which must needs attend such a Discovery, she hang'd her self for Grief the next fol­lowing Night. The Marshal taking the ad­vantage of these Disorders, hunted about the Nunnery till he met with his belov'd Fransson whom he had debauch'd; and ha­ving afterwards caus'd her to be disguis'd in the Habit of a Page, she follow'd him in the Camp, and was present at the Bat­tel of Steenkirk, which was fought in Au­gust. Under this disguise she waited upon him in his Tent, and in all other places, without the least suspicion of her being a Woman, except that the Prince de Turenne some few hours before he was slain, be­gan to suspect the Truth, who without doub't wou'd have discover'd the whole In­trigue, if Death had not prevented him. Mon­sieur Boufflers was so careful of his Page, that he went no where without him, and he was call'd by no other name in the Army, than The handsome Page.

[Page 192] During these intrigues, the Marshal re­ceiv'd Letters from the Countess of—whom he had left at Paris, and from Ma­demoiselle Orton, who was as yet in the Nun­nery near Namur. These two fair Ladies were not sparing in upbraiding him with his Indifferency and Fickleness. But, alass! these are weak Efforts against Men of so changable a Temper as our General then was, who seldom are concern'd at the Reproaches of an abandon'd Mistress. He receiv'd very frequent Letters from both, which were im­mediately sacrifis'd to the Flames without so much as reading 'em. Fransson, was gene­rally a Spectatrix of it, and had the sa­tisfaction to hear him say, that it was done for her sake. Winter approaching, the Ar­my was divided and sent to the Garrisons, the Marshal taking his way (incognito) di­rectly to Paris, attended by his Page: The Countess, who had got Intelligence that he had been six or eight Weeks in Town, with­out seeing her, at last came to find him out at his Lodgings; where she upbraided him in a most outragious manner: But he did not answer her one Word, and having or­der'd one of his Servants to shut the Door upon her, he look'd above to see her depart, without being in the least discern'd by her. This Lady having somewhere or another got notice that he was in love with a young [Page 193] Woman who liv'd with him under the disguise of a Page, happen'd just to meet her upon the stairs as she was going down, playing with a little Dog, one of the finest that ever was seen, which the Marshal had brought along with him from the Campaign. This Dog, after she had first had several slices with a Knife at the beautiful Page's Face, she threw out at Window, which was next to her, and so made the best of her way. The poor young Gentlewoman, be­ing thus miserably handl'd and calling to mind what befel her not long ago, as to the Ink-horn in the Nunnery, Alas Heavens! cry'd she, ‘am I not very unfortunate, that every one has a design against that little Beauty which Nature has bestow'd upon me.’ The Marshal, who soon knew the Voice of his female Page, opening the Chamber-door, run out with all imagina­ble speed to see what accident had hap­pen'd, and found her all over cover'd with Blood. He had never been more hear­tily vex'd in all his Life-time, but all that cou'd be done at that instant, was to send for an able Surgeon who heal'd her Wounds in a little time, with so much Skill, that not the least Scarr ap­pear'd.

[Page 194] However, the Marshal conceiv'd so great an Aversion toward the Countess, that all the World was extremely surpriz'd at it, considering to what a degree he had Lov'd her before. One evening during the Car­naval, the Marquess de Boufflers came in Mas­querade, to a Ball, made by the Order of the Duke de Villeroy; of which the Coun­tess having had some notice, she also went thither in a disguise, and took out our General to Dance with her; but he by some secret instinct, supposing it to be her, excus'd himself, and to avoid any fur­ther confusion, immediately left the Com­pany. The next Night was wholly spent by him in running thro' the Ball disguis'd in the Habit of a Satyr, with his Page, who with her fair Hair spread all over her shoul­ders, Danc'd to the admiration of all the Spectators; every one being amaz'd at the becoming Air and Meen of Fransson, who pass'd for a young Man among those that did not know her; to the great satisfacti­on of our General, who cou'd not for­bear laughing at it.

Not long after, Madam de Chatillon, Si­ster, of the Marshal de Luxemburg fell des­perately in Love with her, which was a most pleasant Scene to Boufflers, and serv'd as an agreeable Diversion to him for a long [Page 195] time after. She never made him a Visit, but all her Discourse run upon the excellen­cy of this Page, whom she thought as fair as an Angel; besides said she, that there is somewhat so uncommon and so amiable in his Air, that 'tis impossible for a tender Heart to resist such engaging Charms; 'tis very well for you Men that he was not born a Woman, for he wou'd certainly have set you all in a flame, and burnt you to ashes; I must con­fess, Madam, reply'd the Marshal with a smile, a Beauty so fair as my Page, might cause great disorders in the World, and there­fore prudent Nature having foreseen this evil, judg'd it most expedient to make him a Man, as he appears to be: But Sir, said Madam de Chatillon, interrupting him, and casting a very Passionate look upon Fransson, Don't you believe that a Man who is endow'd with extraordinary perfections, may cause as many Commotions among our Sex, as a fair Lady does among yours? Yes very well Madam, said our General, I am throughly convinc'd that your Hearts are as tender as ours, nay that you out do us in certain respects. You Love with more constancy and reality, whilst we Men are continually upbraided with Levity in changing our Mistresses as often as we please: For my part, if I were oblig'd to speak sin­cerely, I must confess that I have seen great [Page 196] variety of Countries in the Empire of Venus, and have made those Ladies sufficiently sensible of it, with whom I have had any Love-concerns for some time. For I never set up for much Constancy, it being a thing I never was ambitious of. An Engagement which lasts above two or three Months becomes burdensome; and variety is most agreeable to my Humour, especially in matters of Love; which, nevertheless, seldom suits with the Temper of the Female Sex, who take a particular Delight, and make it a point of Honour to preserve the remainders of an old Passion, almost quite worn out, meerly to have the satisfaction to say, ‘Such and such a one still continues to Love me, a convincing proof, that my Charms have been so pow­erful as to keep him in Chains even to this very Day.’

Truly Sir, reply'd the Lady, you speak very favourably of our Sex, when you tell us, That you take 'em to be more Constant than yours. We are at least as fickle as you; and if it were not for a certain kind of Modesty, inseparable from our Sex, believe me, we shou'd be as for­ward to seek for new Gallants, as you are to find out fresh Beauties. I know not what to say to it, Madam, said the Marshal, laughing; this I see plainly, that none in this World can be free from Faults, if Changeableness is to be counted so. Fransson, who was almost tir'd [Page 197] with hearing her thus Prattle without inter­mission, and knowing that Monsieur de Bouf­flers paid her a great deal of Respect, more out of Policy, than any thing else, went in­to a Room over head, from whence, through the Clefts of the Planks, she pour'd some dirty Water upon her Head-Dress, of which she was the nicest Woman in the World, and which was always exactly set in the Quills, whilst she affected to imitate the motions of a Puppet.

Monsieur de Boufflers seem'd to be very angry with his Page, chiding him, and cal­ling him an awkward Fool. But the Lady im­mediately took Fransson's part, telling the Marshal, That 'twas of so little consequence, that he ought not to chide so pretty a Crea­ture as that, about it; especially since it was done by mischance, without any malicious Intent. No, Madam, reply'd the Page with a great deal of affected Simplicity, It was my Master's Ape, that in running after me, overthrew the Water-bowl: We are Play-fellows together, and I often suffer for his Tricks, of which 'tis impossible to break him. She spoke all this, with so much seeming In­nocency, that she charm'd Madam Chatillon to the highest degree, who went home more amorous than ever. She had no sooner enter'd her own House, but having first [Page 198] chang'd her Head-cloaths and Linnen, she lock'd her self up in her Closet, to make Reflections upon her growing Pas­sion.

The Marshal, after she was gone, ask'd Fransson, Whether she had spilt the Wa­ter upon the Duke of Luxemburg's Sister on purpose? Yes, my Dearest, reply'd she, embracing him, I had only a mind to be rid of this prattling Creature, who is continually Talking without intermission. You are an un­lucky Baggage, reply'd the General with a Smile, thus to abuse a poor Gentlewoman, who shews so much Affection towards you. O, re­ply'd Fransson, that is, because she verily be­lieves me to be a Man; but if she shou'd go about to search me, she wou'd soon be convinc'd to the contrary, so that is behoves me to take a great deal of care not to let her come there­abouts; for in regard that she has no great share of Discretion, it wou'd not be long e're she wou'd divulge the Matter to all the World. I only wonder that the Marshal, her Brother, has not found out the Mystery before this time, by the help of his Magical Art: Indeed I am sore­ly afraid of that old Devil, as often as I see him. My pretty little Creature, said the Marshal, he has the misfortune to be a Scare­crow to the handsome Ladies; he never has had any success in Love concerns. I don't know by [Page 199] what means he insinuated himself into the fa­vour of the Countess de Soissons, she being the only Woman that ever lov'd him in his Life-time; as he has often told me with his own Mouth, not without much regret, he being a great admirer of the Fair Sex. But my dear Bouf­flers, answer'd Fransson, with a languishing Air, I have been told that the Duke de Mont­morency and the Count de Luce are very ac­complish'd Gentlemen, and very dextrous in the Art of Courtship. That is true enough, re­ply'd the Marshal, but they have not such a dangerous Head piece as their Father, they are of a sweet and agreeable Temper; they are not for ransacking Heaven and Earth to find out their depth, and to dive into the most abstruse Secrets of Love; neither is there any need of all that stir, since the Charms of this Passion are altogether founded upon Innocence.

Fransson was accustom'd frequently to dispute thus with her Gallant, and that too in so charming a manner, that she for some time was the absolute Mistress of his Heart; when, upon a sudden, he took a Resolu­tion, either to Marry her, or else to put her into some Nunnery for the remainder of her Life. The last of these two Means was more easie to be accomplish'd than the former, wherefore he propos'd to her this Retirement, as the most honourable and [Page 200] most advantagious in her present Circum­stances. The Gentlewoman was in the greatest Agony in the World e're she cou'd resolve upon it, because she lov'd him so affectionately, that she cou'd rather have dy'd than live without him. But not­withstanding all her Sighs and Tears, Monsieur Boufflers, who was resolv'd to be rid of her, having in view a most advanta­gious Match for himself, of which we shall have occasion to speak hereafter, put her into a Nunnery in the Suburbs of S. Mar­cellus, without having made any one privy to the Business, except the Abbess, whom he had perswaded that she was his Kinswo­man; having presented her besides this, with a considerable Sum of Mony, in recompence of her former good Services. Thus this fair Lady once more put on the Habit of a Nun. But before she did it, she was desirous to be upon tryal for some time, under pre­tence that it was expedient for her to ob­serve whether that course of Life wou'd agree with her Constitution. But this was not the true reason of her delay; she was in hopes still that her Lover, before this time was expir'd, might repent of having shut her up in a Nunnery, and that he might be prevail'd upon to Marry her, conformably to some slight Promises which he had made her [Page 201] to that effect, during the height of his Passion. But Words spoken by a Lover to a Woman, when they are in the heat of their Passion, cannot be compar'd to any thing more appo­sitely than to the floating of the Sea, which depends upon the variableness of the Winds.

Our General, finding himself now dis­engag'd from all his Mistresses, began to lead a very regular and solitary course of Life, so that Madam de Maintenon having observ'd him so much alter'd from what he had been before, made no difficulty to speak in his be­half to Mademoiselle de Grammont, Daughter of the Marshal of the same Name, who, ha­ving formerly commanded the King's Ar­mies, had signaliz'd himself on several Oc­casions. The Abbess of St. Cyr did not for­get to give her an Account of all his rare Ac­complishments, unto which the young Lady reply'd but very little, being not unac­quainted with some of his amorous In­rigues, and believing him only to act the Hypocrite like a Jesuit. But our General, being a great Favourite of Madam Mainte­non's, had often an opportunity to see her there; and having always shew'd her a more than ordinary deference and respect, she be­gan by degrees to have a better Opinion of him and his Actions. One Day being left [Page 202] alone with her, he began to declare his Pas­sion to her by halves, but was so extremely over-aw'd by her Presence, that he was not able to proceed in his Discourse; the excess of his Love made him stammer almost at every Word; which caus'd Mademoiselle to laugh at his Transports. He soon after, had a Quartan Ague for three Months, which was commonly call'd the Intervals of his Love; insomuch that he was oblig'd to take a good Quantity of Quinquina, or Jesuit's Powder, which cur'd him of his Ague, but occasion'd a most violent Head-ach, for which he was advis'd to have recourse to the Waters of Bourbon, as he did. He was just upon the point of getting a new Mistress upon the Road, but having recollected himself, how prejudicial such an Intrigue might prove to his present Design, he thought it more adviseable in this juncture, to keep a strong guard over his Heart, which wou'd willingly have made an Elope­ment; and to fortifie it so well, as not to fear any Attack, except from Mademoiselle de Grammont, unto whom all its Avenues and Passes were to be open'd.

Thus he spent some time in this Solitude, but he cou'd not hold out long, for he soon after, began to fix his Eyes on a young Laundress, who was wont to bring his Lin­nen [Page 203] every Day to his Chamber; and ima­gining that such an Intrigue might be car­ry'd on privately, without any noise, he was resolv'd to try his Fortune; which prov'd very favourable to him, she having, without much reluctancy, hearken'd to his first Proposal. His Valet du Chambre, who always found his Bed tumbl'd after he had made it, not in the least suspecting that his Master had any concerns in it, made a Complaint to the Landlady. I have observ'd, said the good Woman of the House, that as often as Judith comes, I find the Bed in this con­dition; God forgive me, if I wrong her. You are not in earnest, Dame Roux, said the Valet du Chambre, laughing: Do you imagine that my Master wou'd meddle with such a Drab as this, who has kiss'd so many fine Ladies? Thou art a good honest Blockhead, Champonniere, said the Landlady, laughing as hard as she cou'd, Dost thou not know, that a mad Dog falls upon every Thing that lies in his Way? Well, reply'd the Servant, joking, when all is done, no Body shall e're perswade me, That 'tis not a much greater Pleasure to kiss a fair Lady of Quality than a dirty Drab. Oh! when I think of those pretty Buttocks, those Hands, those white and delicate Bubbies, which I have taken notice of in my Master's Ladies, it tickles me all over the whole Body, but especi­ally [Page 204] here about the Middle—Oh! I am quite besides my self, I shall run stark mad, if I think on't any longer. As far as I see, answer'd the Dame of the House scoffing­ly, your Skin is mightily tickl'd with this Fan­cy, which has set you all on a Flame. But, prithee, tell me, thou great Fool, Dost thou believe me so simple as to imagine that thy Master wou'd make thee privy to his Mistresses Beauties? May the Devil take me, an­swer'd he, if I have not often seen 'em, in going and coming, in and out of the Chamber, when he was busie in—and was not at Leisure to take notice of me. Plague! on thee for a Beast, cry'd the Landlady, laugh­ing as loud as she cou'd; Come Spark, I'll acquaint the Marshal de Boufflers with it, who I believe, will give thee a good Reward for the Pains thou takest to divulge his Amours. You'll have a care of that, Dame Roux, reply'd Champonniere, blowing the Smoak of To­bacco in her Face, or else I shall go near to have your white Top knot dy'd Black, as Apollo serv'd the Sexton, who was officious in relating to him, what he had heard others say concern­ing him. Boufflers having call'd his Servant, the Dialogue was broke off; and having sent him with some Letters to the Post­house, he went into his Closet, where he wrote this following Billet Doux to Madem­moiselle de Grammont.

Mademoiselle de Grammont happen'd to be at Madam Maintenon's, when she receiv'd this Letter, and after having perus'd it, she fell a laughing, and told Madam Maintenon; I must acknowledge that the Marshal de Boufflers has a very pretty way of writing. I cou'd scarce have believ'd that a Soldier cou'd be en­du'd with so much Gallantry. Sure Mademoiselle, reply'd Madam de Maintenon, you are not in Earnest; does not Love take its Rise even in the very midst of Arms, and is not Gallantry the most essential Character of a Warriour? Don't we see your Alexanders, Caesars and Pompeys [Page 207] inclin'd to this tender Passion in the midst of their Conquests, despising to reap the Fruits of their most glorious Victories, without the soft Embra­ces of their beloved Mistresses? Love has been in all Ages the Delight of Great Men, and is of all other Passions the most innocent, provided it be us'd with Moderation and Discretion, which indeed, are the Two Foundation-Pillars of Hu­man Felicity. What is more natural than to love that which is amiable? The very irrational Crea­tures themselves, if they see any thing surprising, cannot avoid looking upon it; and can it ap­pear strange to you, Mademoiselle, said the Lady very pleasantly, that our Marshal de Boufflers, who has a very discerning Judgment, shou'd stand amaz'd at your Beauty, and a thou­sand other engaging Qualities, too too powerful for him to resist? Madam, answer'd Ma­demoiselle de Grammont, you shew as much Generosity as the Gentleman himself of whom you speak, thus to conceal my Faults. I cou'd wish my self Mistress of those Perfections, which you are pleas'd so freely to attribute to me. Ah! fair Creature, reply'd the Lady, don't oppose a Truth which is really due to your Merits, Poor Boufflers is only too sensible of it, 'tis that which has touch'd his Heart to the Quick. And do you really believe it, Madam, reply'd the young Lady coldly, Is it possible that the Heart of so genteel and so gallant a Man as he is, [Page 208] can be wounded at this time? Oh! I much doubt it. And why so, 'pray? reply'd Ma­dam de Maintenon; those that have so many Mistresses don't always part with their Liberty, but commonly keep their Heart to their own Dis­posal. There is a vast difference between that sort of Love which is bestow'd upon a Mistress, and that which belongs to a Wife. An unmar­ry'd Person, without some little Love-Exercise, grows dull and good for nothing. It seems as if some little Love-Intrigue serves to animate his Vital Spirits, and renders him more accepta­ble among Women. I will allow it you, Ma­dam, said Mademoiselle, provided these In­trigues are not carry'd on to that height as the Marshal de Boufflers has been accustom'd to do; there is none that can be ignorant of his Love. Adventures. And what extraordinary Mat­ter is there in all this, Mademoiselle, reply'd the Lady, smiling, he will be the better able to find the way that leads him to the Glory of pleasing you, a Man cannot be too well skill'd in the Art of Love. But, Madam, said she, sometimes these conquering Gentlemen pay dear for their Knowledge. Soft, soft, my Darling, cry'd Madam de Maintenon, don't you believe that the Marshal has very good Skill in Women? Indeed I know him to be so nice in this point, that I dare engage for him. Madam, your Surety is without Exception, answer'd Mademoiselle, and I will rely upon all that you have said, and hope [Page 209] you'll give me Leave to depart for this Time, that I may be at Leisure to give him a suitable Answer to his Civilities. In short, Ma­demoiselle, said Madam Maintenon, rising from her Seat, you'll do very well; for he is a very worthy Gentleman, who does not deserve to be slighted. You do not know what Time may bring to pass, perhaps he may one Day become your Husband. Mademoiselle de Grammont had no sooner left the Abbess of St. Cyr, but retiring into her Chamber, she wrote the Marshal these following Lines.

[Page 211] The Marshal having read and kiss'd the Letter a thousand times over, found it very witty, and extremely well writ. How! cry'd he, laughing, who has made you so well acquainted with my former Amours? You have a very pretty way of upbraiding me very wittily with all my former Mistresses. Ha! I don't dislike this Humour of yours, for out of what you say, I am sufficiently convinc'd, that you don't hate me: And the last Reserve which you offer me of some part of your Inclinations, tho' but very small at present, is nevertheless very acceptable to me; Time, I don't question, will provide for the rest, and abate much of your Cruelty. While the Marshal was thus talk­ing, Judith came into his Chamber with a pair of Point de Venice Ruffles, which were some Days before torn in pieces in one of their amorous Skirmishes. Here, Mr. Dra­goon, said she, throwing 'em at his Face, these are the Remnants of your fine Ruffles, which I have sticht together as well as I cou'd. How now, you little sawcy Baggage, answer'd Boufflers, where are you Manners? Is this your way of speaking to a Gentleman? I will promise thee, that to break thee of this famili­arity, I'll make use of a good Birch-broom: I am not ignorant that when a Man and a Wo­man have been so closely acquainted as we, Love [Page 212] knows no inequality; nevertheless, I wou'd have you keep your self at some distance, for very good Reasons. And I Sir, reply'd the young Wench, wou'd have you do the same thing with respect to me: Pray have a care, another time, not to make me Dance stark naked, without a Shift, round your Chamber, and then to pretend to put in backwards something which I did not care shou'd—O what a pretty sort of Clyster you were about to apply to me! And what great matter is there in all this, you wanton Slut, cry'd the General, I was applying it in the right place, and where it does most good: I know very well whereabouts thou art now, thou wou'dst have me put it in another place: No question, reply'd Judith, because that is the proper place where such Applications ought to be made. Well, well then, said the Marshal, throwing her upon his Bed, let us try whether I can Syringe you right there or not. Hold, hold, a little, Sir, said Judith, giving him three or four good Poults with her double Fist upon his Back, What the Devil are you going to do? Your Tools are soon ready; you might have ask'd first whe­ther mine were so too. You Gentlemen of the Province of Picardy, are so brisk and forward; but I wou'd have you not be so over-eager.

The Marshal, in the mean while, little minding what she said, advanc'd a-pace, and that so furiously, that he drew Blood from [Page 213] the poor Girl, who then began to cry for her Maiden head, which, as she said, she had kept entire till that time. The Land-lady coming some Hours after, into the Chamber to make the Bed, found upon the Sheets some few Drops, or Spots, the Marks of a lost Virginity, which made her not doubt any longer but that Monsieur Boufflers was wont to kiss his Laundress. The Wo­man, being acquainted with Judith's Mother, told her all that she knew concerning the Matter, and that she believ'd the General had debauch'd the silly Wench. Her Mo­ther, who was a Herb-woman in the lesser Green-Market, and who pretended to be very careful of her Daughters Honour, left all her Herbs and Seeds, running the same Even­ing directly to the Marshal's Lodgings, with one Hand on her side, and a great Stick in the other, where she thus began to accost him: ‘I wou'd fain know, good Sir, with what Impudence you cou'd attempt to debauch my Daughter, whom I have brought up with so much care. I wish that S. Martin, who hears me, may punish me severely for all my Sins, if I don't tickle your Cod­piece, except you restore my Daughter's Honour; a Pox! on your damn'd Tricks.’ The Marshal burst out a Laughing very heartily; ‘And Mother Gobille (this was the [Page 214] Herb-woman's Name) said he, which way wou'd you have me restore your Daughter's Honour, whom you believe I have—Truly these sorts of Breaches are never to be repair'd.’ ‘I know that as well as you, good Sir, said she, raving for Madness, but then I'll make your Purse pay for it. What! shall I see my Child turn Strum­pet, and get nothing by the Bargain? No, before George, added she, lifting up her Stick, be you never so much a Marshal over the King's Armies, I'll lay this over your Head, except—’ ‘Hold, hold, Dame Gobille, cry'd the Marshal, taking hold of her Arm, don't be so furious; how much do you demand for your Daughter's Maiden-head? You must let me have a Penny­worth, because perhaps I had it not all en­tirely.’ ‘Then you own you had it, my good natur'd Friend, reply'd the Woman with her Eyes rolling in her Head, I'll swear you shall pay for't, or else I shall seise on your Field-Equippage, which is all you are worth in the World.’ ‘And how dost thou know, my dear Bird, answer'd Bouf­flers, that that is all what I am worth? Who has given thee an account of my Circumstances? Thou art very impu­dent to treat a Gentleman of my Quality so rudely. Get thee gone for an imperti­nent [Page 215] Piece as thou art, thou deserv'st to be soundly cudgell'd with the same Stick thou hast the Impudence to lift up against me.’ ‘Pay me, ery'd the Herb-woman as loud as she cou'd, pay me for my Daughter's Maiden-head, or else I'll go to my Lord Arch-bishop, who will make you pay dear­ly for it. This Holy Man knows the true value of a Virginity. You, Soldiers, are so inur'd to pillaging and ravishing whilst you are in the Army, that you make no Conscience of it at home.’ She cou'd not utter these last Words without a whole Flood of Tears, so that our Marshal taking some Compassion of her, threw her a golden Louis, telling her, ‘That he thought he had paid dear enough for such a Bit.’ But she threw the Piece at his Head, saying, ‘Is not this a very fine sort of Payment for so dainty a Morsel? You shall not come off thus, for I expect above Thirty of these, and you may be glad if I am contented so. You that pretend to be so fine a Gentle­man, are you not asham'd to offer a Pistole for a Maiden-head? Fie for shame! let no body hear of it. If all the Ladies of Plea­sure in this Town have no better Pay, it will scarce afford 'em Water to wash their Hands. And truly that is the reason why I was so careful of my Daughter's Maiden-head, [Page 216] till now; but since she has let the Cat taste of the Cheese, I suppose she will be no more at my disposal There, Dame, said Boufflers, who was quite tir'd with her Im­pertinencies, there are four Pistoles for you; Decamp immediately, or else I will order the Cannon, which I have sent for, to be discharg'd upon you.’ The poor Woman, being frighted at these Words, was about to pack up her Awls; but the Marshal repen­ting that he had not giv'n her something more for her Daughter's Virginity, threw her down two other Pistoles, bidding her to be gone, without any further delay, which she did.

Our General being left alone in his Cham­ber, and having recollected in his Mind all that had happen'd concerning Judith; he began to accuse her of Indiscretion in tel­ing her Mother, of what had pass'd be­tween 'em; not dreaming that it was his Landlady that had made this Discovery. When therefore she came the next Day to see him, according to her usual custom, he upbraided her with her Foolishness: But the young Wench swore that it never enter'd her Thoughts; telling him, That he ought not to take her to be so sottish, as to let her Mo­ther know her Love-concerns, from whom she cou'd not expect any encouragement upon such [Page 217] an Account. And who cou'd speak of it else but you? reply'd Boufflers briskly. This Ad­venture will shortly be the whole Town-talk, and I shou'd be vex'd to the very Heart, if some of my Friends shou'd come to hear of it, partly for your own sake, it being certain that it can­not be but to your great disadvantage. I fansie, my Lord, reply'd Judith, having mus'd for some time upon the matter, that this News came first out of your own Lodgings, and it is your Land lady whom I most suspect; she having observ'd me frequently to go to your Chamber, and that too sometimes at unseaso­nable hours: I know her to be an old Make­bate that is always ready to thrust her Nose every where. Besides, she is a particular Ac­quaintance of my Mother's, who serves her with Sallets and Herbs at a cheap rate. I believe it to be true, said the Marshal, much vex'd; but 'tis absolutely necessary to break off our In­tercourse even at this very instant, and there­fore I charge you to forbear coming to me any longer for very weighty reasons. Not that I ever shall have the least aversion to you, but on the contrary, I shall Love you better for the future than ever I did before, and I will con­tinue to see you from time to time incognito; but so, that no body shall have the least know­ledge of it; in the mean while take this, said he, (putting some Mony into her hands) [Page 218] make the best use of it you can till we meet a­gain. But above all things I expect you shou'd make me a solemn promise, that you will carry matters on with discretion, and that you will not speak a word of it to any Person living, but let all be bury'd in silence, otherwise you'll have cause to repent it.

The Laundress having given her consent to every Article which the Marshal propo­s'd, was just ready to leave the Room, but before she was well got out of the door, she turn'd back again saying: ‘But, Sir, if I shou'd prove with Child, what must I do then? Who will Father it? Who knows but such a thing may happen? Go, go, my Child, answer'd the General laughing, that fear is is needless, as for what I have done to thee; if some body else has got thee one, thou must lay it to his charge; for my part, I wash my hands, knowing my self innocent as to that particular. Cer­tainly, Sir, you are in a very pleasant Humour, reply'd the young Laundress, have not you taken true pains for it, that you are so willing to excuse your self? Yes, my Dear, said the Marshal, but I am sure of what I have done. You have done as much as others can do, reply'd she, going out of the Room; Adieu, till the next mer­ry meeting. And art thou sure of that, [Page 219] said the Marshal? O, cry'd she, making a sign with her hands, I must take my chance for that.’

Monsieur de Boufflers having thus got rid of his Laundress, he pretended to his Landla­dy that he was oblig'd to stay away from his Lodgings for some small time, but in effect to have another hard by Mademoiselle de Grammont: He gave orders to all his Ser­vants, that if Judith shou'd come to enquire for him, they shou'd tell her, that he was gone out of the Town. His next business was, to pursue with all possible care his Courtship to Mademoiselle de Grammont, Who, by one of her Gentlewomen who was related to the Marshal's Landlady, had got some notice of his last Adventure? How, said she very wittily, Monsieur Bouf­flers, are you so hard put to it, as to be forc'd to take up with your Laundresses, who publickly proclaim your Feats, and boast of such a Gallant as you? If I were to advise you, pro­vided you will give me leave to be so much your Friend, I wou'd have you break off this Intrigue as speedily as possibly you can. Madam, an­swer'd the Marshal with some Confusion, You are every thing what you please to me: I am entirely at your disposal; I confess my Crime, which is no longer to be hid, since it is come to your Knowledge. I must own I had some engage­ment [Page 220] with my Laundress, who was not worthy of it; But what wou'd you have me say, my in­comparable Lady, but that a Man is a Man in spite of all his endeavours to the contrary. If I were so happy as to have a Spouse, my Flesh wou'd not be so Rebellious, and I shou'd not want means to appease its fury. But now I am trou­bl'd with a continual itching which—Here Mademoiselle interupting him with a smile: ‘But said she Monsieur Boufflers, you know what our Holy Fathers teach us, that it is better to Marry, than to do worse. And since it is a Sin to have an amourous Commerce with other Mens Daughters or Wives, why don't you provide one for your own self, that may be able to bridle the Lust of your Flesh, and take away the cause of such frequent Insurrections? What advice I give you is both for your own and the publick Good.’ ‘'Tis very true,’ my adorable Lady, said the Marshal kneel­ing before her, ‘But if I durst take the boldness to tell you, that if—’ ‘Go on, go on, Sir in what you were about to say,’ cry'd the young fair Lady, ‘I give you free leave to speak; What are your Words stopt in their very passage? I will take courage then, reply'd he with a loud Voice, Since you give me leave to explain my Thoughts. Yes very well, Sir, reply'd Mademoiselle [Page 221] with a serious Countenance, I have not laid my Hand upon your Mouth, as the Pope does to his Cardinals; you have full liber­ty to deliver your mind.’

‘Having receiv'd assurance from your own Mouth Mademoiselle, reply'd the Mar­shal, that I shall not offend you in freely disclosing the Sentiments of my Heart, I must tell you that I shou'd certainly be­lieve my self the most happy of all Mortals upon Earth, if Heaven had design'd me for a Spouse so accomplish'd as your self; but being always mistrustful of my good Fortune, I am afraid that this so much wish'd for happiness, will not fall to my share. It is a considerable time, since I first stiffl'd this thought in my Heart, with­out daring to let it come to light, for fear it might be in any wise displeasing to you. Pardon therefore at this time the boldness I take thus to lay open to your view, even the inmost recesses of my Heart, which will at least ease it of some part of its pain, and don't refuse to give one word in answer, which shall be al­ways most dear and acceptable to me, provided it proceeds from your own Sweet Lips.’

Mademoiselle de Grammont, being some­what surpris'd at the ingenuous Confession [Page 222] of her Lover, and being willing at the same time to satisfy him that she had no aversion toward his Person, made no diffi­culty to tell the Marshal with a most char­ming Air; ‘Sir If I were at my own Dis­posal, I wou'd consult my own Heart as to what might be expedient for me to do in this Case; But, you are not ignorant, that I am to be guided by my Kindred, especially by my Brother the Abbot, who, without doubt will provide such a Match for me, as he shall find suitable to his In­clinations. Besides, you know very well, that it wou'd be very unbecoming a young Virgin in my condition, to doe any thing of this nature disagreeable to the senti­ments of my Relations. I will not con­tradict you in this particular, Mademoi­selle, reply'd the Marshal, but at the same time I hope you'll grant me, that your Kindred ought not to pretend to the dis­posal of your Heart; You being the sole Mistress of it, as well as of the rest of your inclinations. Pray Sir, let us talk no more on this Subject, reply'd she not without some disturbance; I have given you suffi­cient Reasons. I am then a very unfor­tunate Creature, reply'd Boufflers full of despair, in regard that I cannot obtain the favour to be heard so much as for one mo­ment, by the Person I adore, who ever [Page 223] refuses me the Liberty of declaring the real Sentiments of my Heart. I call all you Saints to witness, whether ever any Sufferings were comparable to mine. I perceive very well, cry'd Mademoiselle de Grammont laughing, that you are very much out of Or­der, good Sir, I believe it will be best to send for a Physitian, Alas! cruel fair one, cry'd the Marshal smiling, you are the Physitian, if you please, that can alone resto [...]e me to health, but at the present you only apply Corrosives to my Wounds instead of Balsamicks. Is there any Con­science in your Proceedings? Don't you believe that you must be answerable for this cruel Usage, and give account for all those Pains you have caus'd me to endure? If you shou'd make a real Confession of it to your Father-Confessor, I cannot be per­swaded that he wou'd grant you Absolu­tion for so heinous a Crime.’ ‘Nay, re­ply'd Medemoiselle, if we shou'd acquaint our Father-Confessor with the flattering Expressions and Lies, which you Gentle­men are pleas'd to tell us, we shou'd e'n make a pretty Story of it: What Answer wou'd these Religious Men make us, but to say, That these, being Venial Sins of small consequence, we may easily be par­don'd in not believing you, who so seldom [Page 224] or never speak truth, when you pretend to make Love? For sometimes you shall meet with one, who immediately runs desperate or mad; whilst another is just at the point of Death, and talks of no­thing but Daggers which are to pierce his Heart: Others are continually Whin­ing and Pineing all in Tears, so that they can do nothing but sigh and talk of their Sufferings and Pains, which (as they give out) can never cease but with their last Breath. This is a short Panegyrick up­on your Love-Passion, which is always Languishing, and is Variously represen­ted by you to serve your turn, accord­ingly as you shall find a fit opportunity.’

‘Very well then,’ Mademoiselle, said the Marshal, feigning to be surpris'd at the Lear­ned words of his Mistress, That the Pains of Love did not cease till Death; ‘And who can pretend to procure the Death of so Powerful a Deity? Marriage, Mar­raige, Sir, reply'd the fair Lady: I say, the Conjugal Union will quench the most violent Flames of Concupiscence, and anni­hilate their force. What is become of those most violent Passions, what of those great efforts of Love, which once appear'd in our great Monarch Lewis XIV. towards a la Va­liere, a Montespan, and several others, whom [Page 225] he has quite abandon'd since, as if he ne­ver had had any knowledge of 'em. Ma­dam de Maintenon told me the other Day, that the King wou'd not so much as suffer 'em to be spoken of in his presence. Alas! take my Word for it, there is nothing in this Sublunary World, but what is continually subject to change. You ought not, Madam, answer'd the Marshal, to reflect upon these matters at your Age; this part of Morality is too solid for you at this time, to take up your Thoughts: You ought rather, to endeavour to make use of the advantage of your blooming Years, in making one of your Adorers happy by the sweet enjoyments of the Ma­trimonial State, to your mutual Comfort and Satisfaction. This is that which you ought to apply your self to, without lose­ing one Moment longer.’

[continu'd he singing.]

‘No matter for that, Sir reply'd Mademoi­selle de Grammont, we seldom have oc­casion to repent of having been too Wise or Discreet. Do you believe that there is any real Felicity in the enjoyment of the Pleasures of this World? I can assure you, [Page 226] that I never thought my self less happy, than since the time I left the Nunnery, where I was before, and where I enjoy'd a most delightful Tranquillity both in Body and Mind, which in the management of Worldly Affairs, is continually distracted by a thousand troublesome Contingences, which are daily incident to us poor Mor­tals, during our abode in these Terrestrial Mansions. If my Brothers had not en­gag'd me to come and live with an Aunt of mine, who upon her Death-Bed made me promise her to Marry, I wou'd never have left it, O cry'd the Marshal embracing her, I am overjoy'd my most lovely Crea­ture, to understand from your own Mouth, that you are resolv'd to Marry. What a happy Man will he be, added our General transported with passion, who shall be the possessor of so incomparable a Lady? Therefore I must go to consult the Oracle at Versailles (Madam Mainte­non) to know whether this shall be my Destiny.’

Mademoiselle de Grammont, who very well understood his meaning as to this familiar Oracle which is very advantagious to its Favourites, cou'd not forbear laughing, and said she to her Lover, ‘You have free access to this Sibyl without the assistance of any Mediator; you are more in her favour [Page 227] than any one at Court; and no Question, she will tell you your Destiny without dissimulation. May Heaven be propitious to me, I will go to consult her to mor­row, Madam, answer'd the Marshal de Boufflers, but it must not be without your good Company, you shall also learn your Destiny from this Oracle.’ That is the least of my Concerns, reply'd Made­moiselle de Grammont, carelessly, ‘let Hea­ven dispose of me as it thinks fit. O what a good Christian! O what a pretty Child is this! said the General, who leaves her self altogether to the disposal of Provi­dence; there are but very few Persons in our Age, who are so careful of the Wel­fare of their Souls, and are dispos'd to take so good a Resolution. I must at­tribute it in some part to your Holy Mo­thers, the Ʋrselines, among whom you have been educated, and who have inspir'd you with these noble Sentiments. When I see the Abbot de Bonne Avanture, I will not forget to acquaint him, how prudent and devout you are.’ I suppose he will not be displeas'd at it, Sir, reply'd the young Lady, as she was just arising to meet Mademoiselle de Pontriant, one of her Ac­quaintance, who was come to give her a Visit.

[Page 228] The manner of Conversation being in an instant chang'd with the Company, they be­gan to be much more Jovial than before: For this Young Lady, being of a very fro­licksome Humor, wou'd needs divert 'em with a Story of a Servant-maid of hers, who being Heart-sick for a Sweet-Heart, the young Lady told her, ‘Yes, yes, Echa­lotte, he will shortly come to see thee: For I have been told, that he is already up­on the Road, coming on purpose to give thee a Visit.’ ‘I pray God that the Holy S. Miclotie may safely conduct him hither. Do you say so, Madam, reply'd the poor Wench, and holding up her Hands,’ ‘I will, said she, say a Pater Noster and an Ave Mary for him;’ which she actually did, and that too, with so much Innocence and Devotion, that every one was amaz'd at it. A little after she came to her self, I left her, and they tell me since, that she is pretty well recover'd.

The Marshal de Boufflers and Mademoiselle de Grammont, looking at one another, laugh'd heartily at the Story of Mademoiselle de Pont­riant, who having diverted 'em for some time longer, with such like Adventures, took her Leave of our Lovers, whom she left at liberty to renew their former Di­scourse. But the Marshal having soon af­ter, [Page 229] recall'd to memory his intended Journey to S. Cyr, left his Mistress, and went direct­ly from thence to pay a Visit to Madam Maintenon: No sooner had he enter'd this Lady's Closet, introduc'd by Sister Nicolle, but, said he, ‘Madam, I am come hither to consult you, no otherwise than an Oracle or some great Deity, whose Power it is to dispose of me, my whole Desti­ny being solely put into your Hands. Pray, tell me, whether I shall be happy or unhappy, and whether I shall obtain for my Spouse a certain charming Lady of your Acquaintance, who relies upon your Decision of her Fortune, looking upon you as her Governing Planet, from whence she expects nothing but a favourable Aspect and benign Influences.’ ‘And, pray Sir, reply'd Madam Maintenon, who is this Person, who puts so much Confidence in me? I'm extremely oblig'd to her for the good Esteem she has of that mean Ability I have to serve her, but I am not so skil­ful as you imagine, I did not at my Birth receive that Gift of Prophecy.’ ‘How, Madam, reply'd the Marshal, can you be ignorant of that Beauty, over which you have so powerful an Ascendant? she does nothing without your prudent Counsels, and you are the very Soul that guides her [Page 230] Inclinations. Don't you know Mademoi­selle de Grammont?’ ‘Yes, Sir, said the Lady, she is a very charming Person, for whom I have a most singular Respect, and whom I shou'd be ready to serve upon all occasions.’ ‘Is it her then, continu'd she, my dear Child, whom you are desirous to have for your Spouse. Truly I see you are endu'd with a discerning Judgment; I can assure you, that you have made a Choice not unbecoming your self, for, be­sides that she is vastly rich, she is very well look'd upon at Court, for her extraordina­ry Endowments, which make her to be admir'd by every one.’ ‘Madam, said Boufflers, with somewhat of Impatience, all my Felicity depends upon your Favour, in regard that she has sent me to you to know whether this Match is like to be prosperous on my side. She referrs her self entirely to your Determination. You are in Jest, Sir, reply'd Madam de Maintenon, with a smile, you speak thus to satisfie your own Inclinations, which are wholly bent upon this Lady. Mademoiselle de Grammont is a young Lady, who has a great deal of Wit, and perhaps told you this, to free her self from your amorous Importunities. Believe me, Sir, she her self is not destitute of Subtilty, she knows [Page 231] very well what she has to do, without con­sulting me as her Oracle If, neverthe­less, it lies in my Power to do you any Service with her, I am ready to do it with all my Heart, for several Reasons. You must manage her softly and by degrees, she being of a sweet and quiet Disposition, don't overload her with Complements, as it is natural for you Gentlemen to do when you make Love to Women, without con­sidering, whether it be suitable to their Hu­mour or not. I give you this Advice, as to a Friend, for whom I have some con­cern. You know that you have the Re­pute to have play'd the Gallant a little too much, in your younger Years, and per­haps something of it may be come to her Ears, as well as your late Adventure with the Laundress. She has given me once al­ready a Touch as to that, reply'd the Mar­shal, but I am in good Hopes, that this unfortunate Accident will not make any great Impression upon her Mind, and that she will bury in Oblivion the rest of my Amorous Trespasses, which I have unluckily committed in former Time.’ ‘I much que­stion it, Sir, reply'd the Lady, for she has always been educated among the Religious Ʋrselines, the strictest Order in all France, especially as to sensual Pleasures, upon [Page 232] which they look as so many Monsters, that strive to devour Mankind, and to exclude 'em from Paradise. If you are dextrous enough to insinuate your self into her affe­ction, you are a happy Man; but you'll find the Conquest not very easie. Above all things, I wou'd advise you, to deal sincerely with her, she being a great Lov­er of that Vertue.’ ‘I will endeavour, Madam,’ reply'd the General (having made first a profound Reverence to her) ‘to follow your wise Counsel, and I will strive to gain the Affections of this Beauty, by all the most sincere and honourable means that can be found out.’ Madam de Maintenon having given some further Advice to the Marshal, concerning his Marriage, and re­ceiv'd his humble Thanks; he return'd to his Lodgings, where he began to meditate upon the event of his intended Marriage.

The next Day, after Dinner, he gave a Visit to Mademoiselle de Grammont, who be­ing just a little before, gone to S. Cyr, and he not thinking it convenient to interrupt the Discourse that might pass between this fair Lady and the Abbess, staid at some di­stance from the Abby. But she making a longer stay than he expected, and being on Horse-back, follow'd only by one Footman, [...] took a turn in the Wood of Vincennes, [Page 233] He had not been there long, e're he espy'd the Livery of Madam de Maintenon afar off; and not questioning but that his Mistress was with her in the same Coach, which went on with a very slow pace, he, with a Hand-gal­lop, advanc'd nearer to 'em. Mademoiselle de Grammont being plac'd at the same side where he came, let the Glasses down, and sa­luted him not without Blushing; which Madam de Maintenon having immediately taken notice of, she made a Sign to our Mar­shal, to make him sensible, that this sudden Emotion cou'd not be interpreted otherwise, than to his advantage. He soon understood the meaning of the Sibyl of Versailles, and being unwilling to surprise his Mistress, he look'd another way, as if he had not observ'd this change of her Colour.

Madam de Maintenon, who was ready up­on all occasions to second his Love, told him; ‘And what, Sir, makes you come hither? What is it that enforces you thus to wan­der so far in this Solitude? Perhaps 'tis some amorous Melancholy, which has car­ry'd you into this Wood.’ ‘You have guess'd it to a Hair's Breadth, Madam, cry'd he, and I protest to you upon my Faith, That nothing else has brought me into this solitary and delightful Place. The Marshal, said Mademoiselle de Gram­mont, [Page 234] interrupting their Discourse, is always employ'd in some new Love-Intriegue or another, in which he seeks his Diversion. 'Tis true, Mademoiselle, reply'd Madam de Maintenon, he was made both for Love and Wars, and his noble Heart, Hero like, tri­umphs over both.’ ‘Madam, reply'd Bouf­flers, in a very submissive and respectful man­ner, you that determine all Matters before you, with equal Skill and Goodness, pray don't deny me Justice: My Heart is like a Slave, that is accustom'd to wear Chains without regret. 'Tis no hard matter to conquer it, provided the Person who at­tacks it, be like Mademoiselle, whose force it is not able to resist.’ ‘You always are very gallant, Sir, said Madam de Main­tenon; and what do you think of him, my Dear?’ ‘Madam, reply'd the fair Lady, I cannot think otherwise than that you judge in favour of the Marshal: 'Tis a Chara­cter peculiar to a gallant Man, to be al­ways tender and complaisant in Lady's Company; and tho' he shou'd not be so in good earnest, yet he ought at least out of a Principle of Gallantry, to make 'em believe so. But, as to flatter my self so far, as to believe that it is in my power, by any means, to disturb the Repose of Monsieur Bousflers, I am well satisfy'd 'tis much [Page 235] beyond what I can pretend to.’ ‘Ha! what do you say, Mademoislle, cry'd the Marshal transported to that degree, that Madam de Maintenon cou'd not forbear laughing, there never was any Person living upon the Face of the Earth, who cou'd be more capable of making me unfortunate, than your self? Pray look, Mademoiselle, reply'd the Abbess of St. Cyr, in a very obliging manner, what effects your Charms have produc'd upon the Marshal: Alass! how much alter'd he is since the time that—’ ‘'Tis very true, reply'd the Marshal de Boufflers, I don't rest Day or Night; and from that very mo­ment that I began to be in Love, I found my Heart so continually distracted and tor­mented, that all whatever I felt before in my Life-time, is not comparable to it. I know who is the cause of it, and it's for this reason that I cherish those Evils, which, when I rightly consider 'em, cannot but be very charming to me.’ ‘As far as I see, said Madam de Maintenon, you are both happy and unhappy at the same time, and I don't question but that Mademoiselle, who is all Goodness, will take some care not to let you suffer so much for the future: She will undoubtedly take some Method or another to make you more fortunate. Do you not give your Consent to what I say, [Page 236] incomparable Lady, added Madam de Main­tenon, taking our young Lady by the Hand? I'll see, I'll see, Madam, reply'd she with a Smile, I believe the Pain which the Marshal talks of, not to be so violent, but that he may have a little patience, till some body else apply a Remedy to appease it; I am not so skilful in giving Relief to such Gentlemen as he, who are continually in want of the Assistance of fair Ladies.’

The Marshal wou'd certainly have made some gallant and agreeable Reply to his Mis­tress, if Madam de Maintenon and Mademoi­selle de Grammont, had not both stept out of the Coach, on purpose to take a Walk upon the Grass, which was very green and plea­sant at that Season of the Year. Boufflers walk'd constantly by his fair Mistresses side, to whom he told a thousand tender and pas­sionate Things. At last he entreated 'em to go and refresh themselves at a fine Country-Seat hard by, belonging to a particular Friend of his, which he made use of his own. But Madam de Maintenon not being willing to go, they agreed to defer it till another Opportunity. ‘The care of the Abby, which lies altogether upon me, said she, after a very devout manner, (not to speak now of the Engagements I have to use a great deal of Complaisance to the King, [Page 237] who has his particular Humours) does not allow me so much time, as to think of Pleasures: Not but that he is a very good natur'd Prince, but his Majesty very often insists upon doing Things which I shou'd not approve of, if I had the liberty to ex­plain my felf; so that being frequently oblig'd to pass a great many things by in silence, it causes me many a vexatious Hour.’ ‘I cannot but admire at what you say, Madam, reply'd Mademoiselle de Grammont, the whole World looking upon you as the most fortunate Lady in Europe. You are belov'd by a great Mo­narch, who does nothing without your Advice, and who does every thing to please you: In saying thus, I avouch nothing but what is allow'd of by all the World.’ ‘O Mademoiselle, said this Lady, consider, that all that glisters is not Gold. I often think of a certain Proverb, which was in use a long time before I was born, and which I find to hold true still, That no Condition of Men is free from Troubles and Anxieties.’ ‘It is very true, what the Princess de Conde told me the other Day, That a mean Shepherdess, often receives more satisfaction in the enjoyment of her innocent Pleasures, than the greatest Lady in the Kingdom.’ ‘[Page 238] It is not always Worldly Grandeur and Lustre, that makes us happy in this Life; or that we ought to look upon as our So­veraign Good. I don't disagree with you, Madam, answer'd the young Lady, but I hope you will not also deny, but that an eminent Station in this World, is very a­greeable to Mankind. And I tell you, Ma­demoiselle, said the Marshal abruptly, to put an end to your moral Doctrin, which carries us too far from our purpose, that of all the Pleasures that this Life affords, Love is the sweetest; I mean when one Loves sincerely, and is belov'd again; for if Love be not reciprocal, I am not for it, as knowing that it is so far from being de­lightful, that it is nothing else but a con­tinual Misery. All the World is for Plea­sure, reply'd Madam de Maintenon; we Mortals scarce think of any thing else, not considering that both they and we pass a­way like a Dream, and that one day we must all be accountable for our Actions; and you Gentlemen of the Blade, don't think that you will be exempted from it. Good faith! answer'd the Marshal with a great deal of indifferency, I don't overload my self with those things, I lay 'em all, as often as I go to Confession, upon my Father-Confessor's Back, and that is broad [Page 239] enough to bear 'em. This good Religi­ous Father, as soon as he finds the Pence come in, tells me always, that he will find out means to cleanse me from my Sins, that I shall appear as white as Snow, tho' I were as black as a Chimney-stock be­fore.’

‘You are very happy in your Father-Confessor, reply'd the Lady, for our Father la Chaise does not tell us so: He talks of nothing else to us but Penances and Morti­fications, and at last of all perhaps he will tell you, We are uncertain what will be­come of us. But pray where cou'd you find out such a Father-Confessor, who is so favourable to you Soldiers, who seldom believe Heaven or Hell? Madam, reply'd Boufflers, I found him out by good chance; yet he belongs to the Profess'd House of Je­suits in Paris, and for my part, I was ne­ver so curious as to enquire after his Name, provided he does but grant me Absolution of what they call Sin, I don't trouble my Head any farther. This is truly living like a Cavalier, answer'd Mademoiselle de Grammont, laughing outright; Madam may very well say, that you Officers of the Ar­my, believe neither Heaven nor Hell. O Lord! Sir, into what Errors do you run [Page 240] head-long; the very thought of it makes me tremble: O Mademoiselle, said Bouf­flers, we are not so irreligious as you ima­gine; 'tis a sort of vulgar Error which has prevail'd throughout the World to our dis­advantage. I hope to see Heaven as soon as one of your most Religious Zealots. I have a good stock of Indulgences, which I have pick't up in all Parts of Europe, e­nough to serve my self and all my Dra­goons. Make much of 'em Sir, answer'd Madam de Maintenon, for they may stand you in good stead, when you are in Pur­gatory, where you may be in danger to burn all your life-time, without a good Preservative. I mean your Soul, which will never perish. By my Faith! Madam, you frighten me, said the Marshall, step­ing some paces backward, pray let us talk no more of these everlasting Flames, they put me in a fright: These little pretty Devils that possess our Hearts, are far more agreeable. I acknowledge it, Sir, reply'd the Lady, but these are often the occasion of our eternal Sufferings. In the mean while let us implore Hea­ven to preserve us from them, and let us alter the Scene, for I perceive that this too much disturbs you.’

[Page 241] Our Ladies then being again gone into their Coach, and our Marshal having re­mounted his Horse, they return'd to St Cyr; from whence Monsieur Boufflers accom­pany'd his Mistress to her own House, where having taken his leave of her, he went to sup that evening with some of his Brother-Generals. They having ob­served a certain paleness in his counte­nance ever since he courted Mademoiselle de Grammont; the Count de Montal, who was among the rest at the Table, began thus to address himself to the Company. If Men were subject to the Green-sickness, I should be apt to believe, that the Marshal de Boufflers was troubled with it. But since this Distemper is not incident to us Men, I will speak no more of that. I am rather inclin'd to believe, said the Duke de Villeroy, that it is his Maiden-head, which sending up some Vapours to his Brain causes this paleness in his Face: 'Tis high time to marry him, lest his Distemper should prove mortal. It is a great while, Gentlemen, reply'd the Marquess de Boufflers, since my Maiden-head is flown up into the Air, and if it be there still, I believe it to be a good way off. The Devil take me if that be the cause of my pale­ness; or else I am strangely deceiv'd in my self, for I am sure I have given it over and over a thousand times: if I should shew you a List of all my Mistresses, you would be convinc'd of the [Page 242] truth of it. O the very thoughts of it tickle my fancy at this very moment, continued he with a passionate Air. I am transported with the very conceit of it, Sir, Sir, said the Count de Montal, addressing himself to the Duke de Villeroy, and pulling him by the sleeve, let us deal a little more charitably with our friend, I see his co­lour change, our discourse may put his Animal Spi­rits into such a ferment, as to make him faint away: Some Wine here, said he to one of his Footmen, some Wine here for the Mar­shal de Boufflers: come, Sir, drink to your own inclinations. Well then, reply d the Ge­neral, pulling off his Hat; Here is a Health to that charming Beauty which I admire. You should rather have said, reply d Valleroy laugh­ing, a Health to all those fair Ladies you love, for I am of opinion, that you have a good many of them in all Parts; and I am also apt to be­lieve, that since you have served the King, you have never been present at the besieging of any Town, but that at the same time you have con­quer'd a Heart and forc'd it to pay you Hom­mage.

Sir, reply'd the Marshal, you are pleas'd to honour me beyond my deserts, in enrolling my Name among those of your great Conquerors: My amorous and warlike Expeditions are nei­ther of them so considerable as you think fit to represent 'em, and my most glorious Love-exploits have terminated in the Conquests of certain pret­ty [Page 243] young Damsels, who were not undeserving of what pains I took for 'em. But I have now laid aside all these former slight Engagements; I am resolved to be wiser for the future, and wholly to devote my self to one Mistress, whom I intend for my Spouse, if I can attain to that good fortune. I know that the sighs of an old Lover seldom find good reception among Ladies. They are commonly look d upon as your ancient Slaves, who have nothing to do but to wear their Fetters, rarely meeting with the lucky minute.

Ha! Now you speak of the critical minute, said the Duke de Villeroy; if I had been in­clined to make use if it, a very fair opportunity presented it sels three or four days ago, when walking over the new Bridge, a pretty young. Fan-flap, pulling me by the Sleeve, whisper d me, ‘Have you a mind to be merry to night, my Lord: I had a great mind to do it, but—’ That But, Sir, said the Mar­quess de Boufflers, laughing, stopt your pas­sage. Yes indeed so it did, reply d the Duke, I was afraid I should be pepper d off for all my Life-time: We often pay at too dear a rate for such sorts of Commodities. Nevertheless, she was the best humour d Wench that ever I saw. Surely, answered the Count de Montal, if she were so charming a Creature, I wonder how you could forbear; I believe you were fain to put a great force upon your inclination: I ll lay you a Wager, if the Marshal de Boufflers had been [Page 244] in your place, he would not have been so cautious as you; and I am apt to believe, that this per­haps may be the cause of his pale countenance. No, indeed, Sir, reply'd he very seriously, it was never my humour to meddle with such sort of Cattel, I had always an aversion to them because I cannot endure to go into the Country upon that account. If all Mens stomachs were turn'd against 'em as much as mine is, they would be all thrown over the Bridge into the Seine, without taking the trouble to send them to the Plantations in Canada, and other places, where they communicate their pestilent Distem­per to those poor Wretches who have the misfor­tune to deal with 'em.

By this time the intended Match be­tween the Marshal de Bouflers and Ma­demoiselle de Grammont, began to make a great noise among the peeple of the great­est quality at Court. Our two Lovers frequently received Visits of the Ladies, where the chief entertainment was of nothing but Gayety and gallant Diver­sions: Repartees, one of the best exercises of Wit, were not wanting in those In­tercourses, which sometimes were put so close, that it turn'd to ridiculing one or another of the Company; and tho some of them were very smart, yet were they so well manag'd, that none could take any exception. One day, among the [Page 245] rest, the Count de Surlaube had his share of it. He had marry'd Mademoiselle de... Daughter to the Marchioness de Brese, who was not above 12 years of age when she was engag'd to her Husband: A very tender age indeed, to endure the fatigues (especially the first night) of a Husband of such a bulk as the Count was, he be­ing one of the fattest and most robust Gentlemen in France. The Marshal de Boufflers, having a mind to divert the Company, and addressing himself to the Count ask'd him: How he could possibly over­come so difficult an enterprize? Sir, answer'd the Count, As great a General as you are, I am very well convinc'd, that if you had been in my place, you would have sooner chose to un­dertake the Conquest of one of the most conside­rable Forts in Flanders.

At these words all the Ladies that were present, burst out aloud into a'laughter. But the Count, who is a very pleasant Companion, thus continu'd his Discourse; Monsieur Boufflers, we shall have shortly the opportunity to see which way you'll go about it; if you'll permit me to teach you some Lessons, as to this particular, I only desire your leave to hold the Candle, whilst you perform the operation. If you should perhaps be deficient in some forma­lities, I promise you I will be your Assistant, if it may be without offence to Madamoiselle de [Page 246] Grammont, who could not forbear smi­ling at it. Signior Count, reply'd Mon­sieur Boufflers, You are come to that age that you cannot but be sensible, that all you are able to do in such a case as this, is only to assist me with your good Counsel. And if we may give credit to the common report, you could not at that time pass the Ditch without a great deal of difficulty; Nay, I have heard it affirmed for truth, that you were not able to make your self Master of the Counter scarp till six months after the Trenches were open'd. If this be true, I must confess it is one of the most famous Sieges that we have known of; and if you had not received Suc­cors from the Relations of the Countess your Lady, it is a great question to me, whether you would not have been oblig'd to raise the Siege. The Countess, who was present during the Contest, blusht at this Discourse, but this Colour (which is so natural to all civil Women) being a little gone, she did like the rest, who laugh'd all as heartily as they could.

The Count then resuming the Dis­course: To compleat your Diversion, Ladies, said he, I will give you an exact History of what past between my Spouse and me the first night after our Wedding. The Marchioness de Choisi a very grave Matron, told him, That the Ladies would not be against it, pro­vided he would be cautious in offering any thing [Page 247] that might be offensive to the fair Sex. Ladies, said the Count, In case I tell you nothing but what is true, and that I give you a faithful Relation of the whole History, I don't question but you will pardon the rest. The Countess, my Spouse, who is here present shall engage for me as to that particular; and I give her free leave to silence me, if I speak one word of untruth. Well, well, let us have it then, unanimously cry'd the Ladies, except Mademoiselle de Grammont, who being the only Maiden Gentlewoman in the Company, whis­per'd her Lover the Marshal de Boufflers, in the Ear, That she was afraid that this story would make her uneasie; that she foresaw the Count was preparing to give a relation so cir­cumstantial as to those matters, as would make her colour rise in her Face, because she was upon the point of being marry'd her self, and might perhaps be subject to the same frailties. But Monsieur de Boufflers bid her have a good Heart, telling her, My dearest Child, you must be inur'd by degrees to the hardships and toils of War, your time draws near when you must begin to carry Arms, wherefore I would be glad to see you undertake the task with constancy and brave resolution; that when you see the Enemy making an Assault, nothing may terrify you. Let us hear, continued he, what the Count will say: the good Counsels of a valiant Captain who has undergone the toils of Cupid, [Page 248] Wars, often furnish us with a piece of Morality, which may have more influence as to the conver­sion of a fair Lady, than all the insipid moral Doctrine of a Sermon preach'd by Father Cras­set.

Monsieur de Boufflers is much in tke right on't, said the Count, he has not bestow d all his time in burning of Villages: he has learnt by experience, as well as my self, how to give good doctrine to young people. I am of opinion, added he, speaking to Mademoiselle de Grammont, that when you have made one Campaign under him, you will be skilful enough not to stand in need of my Instructions: Ma­demoiselle de Grammont gave no other an­swer to the Count, but by a Smile, which appear'd more eloquent at that time than all the Sermons of Father Bourdalou. The Marshal, her Lover, was so charm'd with her Modesty, that he could not forbear to rob her of a Kiss. Soft, soft, said Madam de Tilladet, you will have playing time enough; a Fire that burns too fierce is not lasting; a mo­derate passion is always the most constant and durable. By my faith, Madam, said Mon­sieur Bouffiers, we are only making Matches now, that when the day appointed for bombarding the Place comes, every thing may be in a rea­diness. Don't you know that I love Expedition; if I should march into the Field, and should find but one Nail wanting in my Train of Artillery, I [Page 249] should be stark mad: Then turning himself to Mademoiselle de Grammont, his beloved Mistress, whom he embrac'd; and said he, I only desire this one thing of you, that you be willing to receive the directions of your General. The first Attack is commonly fierce, but let not the sight of a little blood dismay you; every small wound we receive in the Wars is not mortal. If Love does wound us sometimes she is as care­ful in healing of us; and it was not without great reason, that Moliere nam'd one of his Plays, Love the Physician. The Ladies, who were dispos'd to laughing, having silenc'd Mon­sieur Boufflers, that they might be diverted with the Story the Count had promis'd to tell 'em: I am content, my Ladies, said he; and as for Mademoiselle de Grammont and I, we will endeavour to profit by it as much as possibly we can.

‘The Countess, my Wife, was but twelve years of Age, said the Count, when I marry'd her. She being so very young had not the opportunity to learn those things which she has been taught since, and which she has now at her fin­gers ends, tho she be not now above eighteen. Our Nuptial Feast was cele­brated at the Marchioness de Brese's, my Wife's Mother. About an hour before we were to go to Bed, I went up into the Chamber where we were to lie that [Page 250] night, to inspect the Nuptial Bed which was prepared for us, and after I had carefully examined every thing, with all the Circumspection imaginable, I returned to my Spouse, whom I had left in the Hall among our Guests. The hour being come, when we were to go to bed, Wax-tapers were lighted, and the Gentlemen and Ladies having taken their leave, went every one to their respective Lodgings. Some of the La­dies at their departure, whisper'd some­thing, I know not what, in my Spouses Ear, which I never have been able to learn since, neither from them, nor her own Mouth. I confess that this put me into some study for a few moments, considering with my self what small progress I had made over the inclina­tions of this young Beauty, which seem'd to be born with a general aver­sion to all Men. Her early years never­theless gave me some hopes to believe, that time, which ripens every thing, would overcome her stubborn Heart, and render it more flexible towards me, who omitted nothing to insinuate my self into her good Will, but all in vain. At last, my Spouse being undrest, and laid in Bed first, according to the usual Custom, and I having put on my [Page 251] Night-cap and Wedding Shirt, I or­dered my Valet du Chambre to withdraw, and to shut the door after him, which he did. When I came nearer to the Bed, I heard something stir underneath it, which made me suspect, that some body was not far off ready to play me a scurvy trick; my Wife being as much surprized at it, as my self, I run all in a fury towards the Table where my Sword lay, which having drawn out of the Scabbard, I push d with it under the Bed, with a design to kill any one that should have hid himself there. I was much startled to see the Cavalier du Blese come out from under the Bed, begging my pardon a thousand times for his unseasonable curiosity, and tell­ing me, That he would willingly have given’ 100 Pistoles, if he might have remain'd in the Post where he had plac d himself, if he could have done it without being discovered. ‘I confess I stood quite amaz'd, yet it was impossible for me to forbear laughing heartily, when I saw the Cavalier creeping out from under the Bed, as black as a Devil, without a Perriwig, and cover'd all over with dust.’ By my Faith, Sir, said the Cavalier, you have a very good Nose that you could so soon smell out a Rat. Indeed I should have been mightily [Page 252] pleas'd to have been a Spectator of the Engage­ment, and a Witness of your Victory, if it had not been for this unlucky accident, which has spoil'd all. ‘You must know, said the Count, that the Chamber-pot which stood under the Bed being overturn'd, I was about to take it up, when I espy'd the Cavaliers Foot, whom I told, That I did not want either a Second or an Umpire in the Duel I was going to fight; and, said I to him, the Devil take me, if I had not run you thro and thro, if you had stay'd one moment longer without discovering your self: And so, continued the Count, I took my Gen­tleman by the Arm, and led him out of the Chamber Door.’

‘This Adventure being over, which I then look'd upon no otherwise than fa­tal to a Man in my circumstances, who was amorous even to a degree of Fren­zy; the only comfort I had left, was the hopes of having now surmounted all the obstacles which could by any means obstruct my Happiness in en­joying that young Beauty, which I had hitherto esteem'd as the most difficult Conquest in the world. Being boy'd up with this assurance, I put out the Candles, I pull'd off my Breeches, and so into Bed I went, like a triumphant Hercules, who had defeated all his Ene­mies. [Page 253] But no sooner was I laid down, but I found my self alone, and think­ing to take my Spouse in my Arms, I found nothing but the Sheets. I might call as long as I pleas'd, My Dearest where art thou? No body would answer me so much as one word. Now you must know that my Spouse had a cer­tain Chamber-maid, who was her Con­fident, unto whom she had represented the aversion she had to Men, adding withal, That if she did not find out some way or another to prevent her being overcome by her Husband that night, she would take a Resolution against her own Life.’ ‘This Chambermaid was at last mov'd with Compassion by the Tears of her Mi­stress, whom, like a young Chicken, she saw in the Claws of a Bird of Prey, in danger of loosing her most precious Jewel, which was her Virginity: her Name was Pasquette, and being very in­genious at such like Inventions, and willing to favour her Mistresses frailties, or rather fantastick humour, because she lov'd her very tenderly even from her Cradle, at last discover'd a private door which she found means to open at pleasure, and thro which our new marry'd Lady, under favour of the darkness, was convey'd out of the [Page 254] Chamber, and hid her self in a Hay­loft, with a resolution, rather to dye than to suffer a Man to touch her.’

‘Ladies, continued the Count, I leave it to your own consideration, to judge in what a condition I found my self at that time. No Enchantment that ever I heard of, seem'd to me so surprising as this, not knowing in the least that there was a Sally-port behind my Bed, because the Chamber was all hung with Tapestry, and having taken all the pre­caution imaginable to look before hand with a Candle in all the corners of the Room. I was stark raving mad, my Rea­son having quite left me,’ It can never be so, said I, except the Devil plays his Pranks here. ‘I cry'd out, and made a hideous noise like one in Bedlam. I call'd her a thou­sand times by her Name, but I might call long enough there was no body that answer'd me. After I had made a sufficient Outcry, I rose at last out of my Bed, imagining that she might perhaps have hid her self underneath it, as the Cavalier had done before, whom I had hunted from thence. The Love and tender Affection which I had for her, were motives sufficiently strong to hinder me from taking up my Sword to fetch her out from thence, [Page 255] as I had done before to the Cavalier; besides, I was sensible, that I ought to make use of more gentle Arms against a young Virgin. Wherefore, after a great many vain Reflections, which almost distracted my Brains, I got under the Bed my self, where I crawl'd up and down for a considerable time, without being able to find any thing, so that now I began tobelieve in good earnest, that there must needs be Witchcraft in the case.’ No sooner had the Count spoke these last words, but his Spouse, and all the rest of the Ladies laugh'd very heartily. The Count perceiving how overjoyed they were at the recital of this Adventure, which had cost him so much vexation, and had almost put him quite besides himself, if he had not had courage enough to bear up against that Daemon, the Enemy of his Repose, could not for­bear to give 'em this Lesson: Ladies, said he, you are those familiar Spirits, which are sent from the other world on purpose to damn and torment Mankind, and to make them dye a lingering Death. Whereupon the Ladies laugh'd as if they had been out of their Wits, and desired him to proceed in his Story. Ladies, reply'd Monsieur de ‘Surlaube, we are far yet from the end of our Adventures. My unhappy Destiny [Page 256] which persecuted me, or rather that de­testable Daemon, that would make me dye the most cruel and violent Death that can be imagined, did not stop here. He had prepared for me these sufferings, which were sufficient to send the most constant and bravest Lover that ever was heard of in any amorous History, to his Grave. The Marchio­ness de Brese, the Mother of my new married Spouse, being at last awaken'd with the noise I made, came running all undrest into my Chamber, asking me, Where her Daughter was?’ I answer'd her, all overwhelm'd with Grief, That I did not know what was become of her; that she had disappear'd like a familiar Spirit, without knowing which way she went, except she were gone out thro the Chimney, because the Windows were very closely shut up. ‘This good La­dy having understood what I told her, was in an incredible Agony about her Daughter, verily believing, that the same Chavalier, who had hid himself under the Bed, had stolen her away: She was so much troubled at it, that she would certainly have run distracted, if Pasquette, the Chamber-maid, had not whisper'd her in the Ear, that she knew where she was. And where is she then?’ said the Marchioness, taking the Candle [Page 257] up her self, Let us look in all corners. ‘Pas­quette having told her Mother, that she believed she had hid herself in the Hay­loft, we all went thither in Procession, where we found her lying amidst the Hay, without any Cloaths, but her Wedding Shift. I leave it to your selves, Ladies, said the Count, to guess, how much surpriz'd I was to see her peepout of the Hay, like a Mouse out of a Nest of her own making, where she intend­ed to have spent that whole night. The Marchioness her Mother taking her by the hand drew her away by force, she being very unwilling to to stir from thence, and having first given her a good Re­primand, she re-conducted her into my Chamber.’

‘Being once more gone to bed, I spent great part of the night in endeavouring to perswade her out of this savage and barbarous Humour; but after I had en­dur'd the utmost fatigues, I found my self where I was before. Her Innocence and Youth, which were the cause of her crime, were all my Comfort, in hopes that time would work out that, which was impossible for my Love and Passion to effect. I might represent to her what I thought fit concerning the sacred Tye of Matrimony, which had join'd us [Page 258] together, and that, for the future, we were to be but one Flesh, according to the true Principles of Christianity: That this was the most sacred and invio­lable Knot of matrimonial and civil Society, and the only one in which consisted all the Pleasure and Tranquil­lity that we Mortals are capable of en­joying upon Earth. I did not forget to produce a thousand Examples of young Virgins, who having been married at the same age, had before the years end brought forth the fruits of their tender Love, in having honour'd their Husbands with Children, which were look'd upon as the Pledges of Conjugal Love, and as certain Blessings from Heaven. All these Reflections were in vain, and made no more impression upon her Mind, than if she had heard a Fanatick, or Mounte­bank, making an Harangue.’ Come, come, Count, said Monsieur de Boufflers, let us leave these moral Reflections to the Priests: Father Bourdalou takes care to furnish the Ladies with 'em in his Sermons: Let us hear the end of your Story.

‘Whatever pains I took, continu'd the Count, to obtain from this inhumane Creature the last favour, it was all to no manner of purpose, so 15 days were spent in vain Attacks; and the more Brave­ry [Page 259] and Eagerness I shew'd to assault the Place, the oftner was I repuls'd with Vi­gor; the Governess of the Fort taking as much Pride in defending it, as the Vestal Virgins did heretofore in preserving the sacred Fire. But pray observe what ano­ther trick she plaid me to free herself from my importunities. She having therefore again advised with Pasquette, her Cham­bermaid, who is as unlucky as a Dae­mon, and more ingenious at a contri­vance than Ariadne; this cursed Megaera made her a Puppet about the same big­ness as my Wife; and, because I had been so cautious as to get the Key of that private door behind my Bed into my own Custody, they had by somemeans or another procur'd a false one, by the help of which, they intended to deceive me, tho I were as watchful as Argus. One night, supposing that no body was with me in Bed, but this cru­el fair One, and turning my self to­wards her, I found in her place this Puppet, which they had taken care to dress up very neatly. Thus for several nights together, my Wife was accustom'd to undress her self before me, so that when I thought my self most sure of her, I found in her place a piece of Wood as cold as Ice.’

[Page 260] O Sir, not to interrupt your Discourse, said Monsieur Boufflers, this was most convenient to quench your flame. ‘'Tis true, Sir, reply d the Count, but a Block of Wood is a very insipid thing for a passionate Lover. If you had been in my place, you would I believe, with all your Stratagems, Bombs, and Fire-works, have been put to a Non plus. You might have planted your Cannon, and fixt your Mortars, according to the most exact Rules of the best Ingineers of the Kindgom; you would have miss d your aim for all this, and that too, some hundred paces be­yond the mark; and if at last you had not turn'd Fool you must have had ve­ry good luck.’ Sir, reply'd Monsieur Boufflers, the Art of War is of little use in Ex­peditions of this nature. The Subtilty of a Fox, and the Nimbleness of a Cock, are sufficient qualifications for such Exploits; these will make the Pullets dance after their Pipe; take this Doctrine from me, Sir, as old an Engineer as you are. ‘Sir, reply'd the Count, you are just at the point of giving us some proofs of your Bravery: Time and opportu­nity will questionless inform us, with what skill you shall have brought your self off these Quick-sands, where the most able Seamen have often suffer'd Shipwrack.’

[Page 261] But Sir, said the Dutchess of Artagnan, whilst all the rest of the Ladies were laughing out, and what issue had this fatal Adventure? ‘Madam, answer'd the Count, the end of the Story is, that it cost me a vast series of cruel sufferings, which made me lead a languishing Life like a poor condemned Wretch, for the space of six months; insomuch that I was verily perswaded, that this time of Pen­nance ought infallibly to deliver me from the pains of Purgatory, if I should be condemn'd to go thither after my death; for I give you my word for it, that all the torments of Hell cannot exceed those pains which we endure by the cruelty of a charming Beauty so much belov'd and admir'd as this unlucky Creature was by me, pointing with his finger to the Countess his Spouse, who laugh'd open-mouth'd, when she saw her Husband relate this Story with so much concern.’ But you have forgot my dear Hus­band, said she, to tell us the circumstances of our Reconciliation. ‘You are in the right on't, my dear Child, said the Count, but give me but leave to cough, and to cleanse my Lungs a little, and then Mr. Preacher will begin where he left off before.’ ‘[Page 262] Having thus suffered all this cruel u­sage which I have just now related to you, and having taken no rest day or night for a considerable time, I told my Mother-in-law frankly, and plainly,’ That I was resolved to give her her Daughter again, as good as I had found her, if by her authority, she could not prevail upon her to ac­commodate her sentiments to the State of Matri­mony. ‘The Marchioness, being moved by my complaints, at last resolved to call an Assembly of Ladies of her next Relations, and having given an account to 'em of her Daughters aversion to the Conjugal Bed, and to all Men what­ever, she order'd a most magnificent Collation, which was to be the prepa­rative of one of the most famous General Councils that ever was held among Wo­men. At last, after the Doors of the Appartment, where these Ladies were assembled were shut up close, the De­fendant was call'd up to appear before her Judges, where she was examin'd con­cerning the present state of her natural Parts, to see whether she were an Her­maphrodite, or whether she had some other impediment, which might ex­clude her from the enjoyment of the Conjugal Union.’

[Page 263] ‘All Parts thereabouts having been found in a very good condition, and conformable to the Rules of Anatomy, (according to the report made by a cer­tain expert Matron, who was sent for on purpose to assist at this Inquisition) and the Generation-box being found without blemish, they past on to Inter­rogatories.’ The Marchioness, my Wife's Mother, being there present in quality of my Lady Chief Justice, de­manded of her Daughter, What was the reason that she refus'd to live as a marry'd Wo­man ought to do, with a Man whom Heaven and she had given her for her Husband; there being nothing wanting in her Person which Na­ture had bestow'd on the rest of her Sex for the bringing forth of Children; especially since the Count her Husband was a Man of a very con­siderable Estate and Quality, descended from one of the most ancient and noble Families in France. She added, That the hopes of be­getting lawful Heirs, was the only motive that induc'd him to desire her in Marriage; there be­ing otherwise a considerable disproportion in their Age; that he grounded his opinion upon her being so young, and descended from a fruitful Family; for which two reasons, he thought him­self sure of Children that might inherit his Estate: And finally, that he was the last of his Family, which was the chief consideration [Page 264] that had made him resolve to marry at that Age. ‘The poor Child answer'd her Mamma, that the Count had so fright­ned her, that she would much rather go into a Nunnery, than to let that be sacrific'd which was the most precious to her in the World, meaning her Maiden-head.’ How! Daughter, what do you mean by this? said her Mother, full of indignation. Explain your self, what rea­sons have you for so doing? Mamma, an­swer'd the young Countess, my Husband told me one day, I think it was just the day be­fore our Wedding, that he believ'd he should not live long. And why so, reply'd her Mo­ther. Because that he had—answer d the young Lady: O Lord! Mamma, I dare not tell it. Speak out you Fool, cry'd the Marchioness, there is none but Women here. He told me, answer d the Countess, that he had a certain Gut that would come out in... If it be so, Mamma, I cannot possibly lie with him, because I know not what it means. At these words, all the Ladies fell a laughing as loud as they could for a considerable time. ‘But to come to the end of my Story, added the Count, my Mother-in­law, and the rest of the Ladies who were there present in Court as Assist­ants, did so tutor this ignorant Girl, and explained this Gut in Terms so live­ly [Page 265] and natural to her, that the poor Child at last was over-perswaded to sa­crifice her Maiden-Treasure, which she had hitherto so carefully preserv'd; so that after six Months Marriage she was made a Wife: the Prodigy of our Age, and perhaps the most extraordinary one that ever was heard of before.’

The Count having finisht his Relation, Madam de Tilladet and the rest of the La­dies, taking the Countess de Surlaube on one side, ask'd her, Whether her Husband had spoke nothing but the truth as to all the circumstances of his Narrative. He has been ve­ry punctual, reply'd the Countess, laugh­ing as loud as she could. My dear Child, said Monsieur Boufflers, addressing himself to Mademoiselle de Grammont; and how do you like this Story of the Gut? shall I be as un­fortunate as the Count? I am devilish impa­tient, continu d he; if any thing like this should happen to me, my Wedding-day would be that of my Funeral. Sir, reply'd Mademoi­selle pleasantly, if I thought I should act with as good success as the Countess, I should take it to be the greatest pleasure in the World to let you languish for some time. She accompa­ny'd these words with so charming a smile, that the Marshal was easily con­vinc'd, that at her Age she was not so ignorant as Madam de Surlaube had been, [Page 266] and that whenever that time should come, she would not stop her Ears to his de­mands.

The Marshal answer'd her by a thou­sand amourous looks, telling her, ‘That he was not ignorant, what delight young Ladies would often take to play a spiteful trick with their Gallants. I think, said he, that 'tis much more ex­cusable, when it proceeds from a Prin­ciple of Modesty and Innocency, which is natural to so tender an Age. In such a case as this, I should be so far from tormenting my self about it, that on the contrary, I should esteem it as the most delicious and most savory Dish Love can afford us: I should then look upon my self to be the Possessor of the whole stock of Charms and sweet Fruits that Love is able to give to a Lover; and that I might flatter my self, even to an assurance, that I was the first who put the Plow into that ground, which I think to be the greatest, Charm peculiar to a Beauty that never saw day-light be­fore. This is so great a rarity, continu'd the Marshal, in the Age we now live in, that such a Mistress is to be accounted a Phoenix. Our modern Gallantry in use among Ladies, is like an Academy of young Beauties, where at the Age [Page 267] of 14 they are so well instructed in these matters, that they will scarce refuse a good thing when 'tis once offer'd em.’

This is past contradiction, said the Count, de Surlaube. Monsieur de Boufflers Mo­rals tho somewhat remiss, come very near the truth, and probability pleads strongly for what he has offered. Experience has sufficiently taught us, that he talks of it like a Master, and that the Draught which he has given us of the In­treagues of the fair Sex is done to the Life. For my part, added he, I foresee already that he will have no reason to complain of his Lady s cruelty, and that his Happiness will be more compleat at the very beginning, than mine has ever been as yet; tho thanks to Heaven, I have no reason to complain now of her, who made me suffer so much before. You ought to attri­bute your Felicity reply'd Monsieur Boufflers, to the explication of the Story of the Gut, for without that, I believe your Lady would have been a Maid to this day.

Monsieur de Boufflers had scarce spoke these last Words, when a Page of Ma­damoiselle de Grammont s came to advertise him, and his Lady, that Madam de Maintenon's Coach was at the door. This Lady had not seen our Lovers for some days last past; and as she of all the rest that were at Court, shew'd most concern for their Happiness, and had her [Page 268] self been the first that spoke in Monsieur Bouffler's Favour to Mademoiselle de Gram­mont; nothing was transacted in carrying on the Match without her approbation. The Marshal and Madamoiselle de Grammont, went immediately out of the Room to re­ceive her at the Stair-head, she being ac­company'd by the Abbot de Tellier, Bro­ther to the late Marquess de Louvois.

Madam de Maintenon at her coming in­to the Chamber, being overjoy'd to meet with so much good Company, all the Gentlemen and Ladies, of whom we spoke before, entertain'd her with all the Courtesie imaginable. The Marshal de Boufflers himself presented a Chair to her, and the Marchioness de Maintenon having taken her Seat Nephew, said he, (for so she was won't to call him) I have some good News to impart to you. And what good News, pray Madam, said the Marshal. I just now came from Court, reply'd the Ma­chioness, where the King told me, that his pleasure was, that those obstacles, which have hitherto obstructed your Match should be removed, His Majesty, added she, is resolv'd to beg in the Campaign very early and therfore will soon have occasion for your Service in Falnders. It is for this reason that he will have the Marriage forthwith consummated, and that all shall be over in fifteen days. I am [Page 269] very glad to bring you these good tidings, that both you and Mademoiselle de Grammont may take yorr measures accordingly. I don't question but you are already so far advanced into your Mistress's favour, that she will not be dissatisfied with this sudden change. I know that young Ladies at her Age, are not so backward to taste those secret enjoyments which Love offers; the first night after Mar­riage, supposing this to be true, I believe you both have an equal share in this satisfaction.

Madam, answered the Marshal, ex­cept I shou d differ from all the World, and that my Heart shou d be quite insensible; how cou'd I choose otherwise than to be charm'd with the engaging allurements of such a Person as Made­moiselle de Grammont. I am already all over in a flame, according to my natural dispo­sition, and this fire cannot but burn with great vehemency, when 'tis fed by an object more bright than the Stars. Give me leave, added he, looking upon Mademoiselle de Gram­mont, with a very passionate Eye, give me leave, my most Adorable, to speak what is due to your merits, and do you accompany my words with your charming smiles and your sweet and amorous glances, which being the interpreters of your Heart, may assure me of what your Tongue is unwilling to express. The Mashral spoke these words with such a grace and pre­sence of mind, with so frank and becom­ing [Page 270] an Air, that he was applauded by the whole Assembly; and his Mistress found her Heart assail'd by a thousand amorous transports. The Eyes of this fair Lady, the faithful Interpreters of the tender passion and shamefac'dness of a young Beauty, who always receives the caresses of her Lover with silence, because Mo­desty requires it; made their addresses to him, giving him to understand the most secret and sincere motions of her Heart.

A Lover who is belov'd is Master of the secret of unfolding these amorous Riddles, which are no small addition to the varie­ty of Love sports; so that if a Mistress will but favour that Person with a smile, un­to whom she has given her heart before, he needs not covet any thing more, to make him the happiest Man in the world. This was the condition in which the Marshal was at that time with Made­moiselle de Grammout. The Marchioness de Maintenon, who was very expert in this noble Art, might easily judge that her Ne­phew had no reason to repent of the pains and trouble he had undergone for a Lady of that quality and merit as Mademoiselle de Grammont was, whom she had first brought into his acquaintance. And that which encreas'd her satisfaction, was, that she could now applaud herself to [Page 271] have been successful in the choice of one of the chiefest Ladies about Court for her Nephew, whom she ever look'd up­on as her adopted Son, and in whom she took a more than ordinary delight.

All the actions of our Marshal have al­ways met with the approbation of the Marchioness de Maintenon, who has shew'd all the kindness to him that could be ex­pected even from a Mother, from the beginning of his appearing at Court till this time; which has been the main cause of his Preferment. Whenever the King had a mind to talk of his great Officers, Madam de Maintenon wou'd seldom let slip the opportunity to enlarge upon the Me­rits, Vigilancy, Bravery, and undaunted Courage of her beloved Favourite: These Encomiums coming from the Mouth of one who had such a sway at Court as Madam de Maintenon; who both at that time and at present, bestows what favours she thinks fit within the verge of it; having by the continual care she has taken to please his Majesty, got such an Ascendant over this Monarch, that she is, as it were, his right hand, and he seldom does any thing of moment without her Advice: Monsieur Boufflers at last, by her frequent Intercession, was advanc d to the Dig­nity of a Marshal of France. This was the [Page 272] highest Pinnacle of her, hopes to see her Favourite so dignify'd, not questioning, but if the difficulty were once surmount­ed, she might find means to accomplish this Match, which she had projected long before; and which without that advan­tage scarce would have come to a happy conclusion: for, Madam de Grammont would hardly ever have been prevail'd upon, to give her Daughter in Marriage to Monsieur de Boufflers, who was then but a Soldier of Fortune; having, as she was won't to say, taken a resolution, to be­stow her upon none less than a Marshal of France, who might be answerable to that high renown, which the Marshal de Grammont had acquir'd by his Heroick Atchievements.

But we will lay aside for some time these Reflections which only appertain to to the Hero of our History, and give you a particular account of some passages of that August Assembly, where were pre­sent all the Noblemen and Ladies of the highest Quality at Court. They enter­tained one another with a thousand plea­sant Stories, and among the rest with se­veral of their own adventures of Love and Gallantry. For the greater satisfaction of the Reader, we will make choice of some few of the best, and such as seem most [Page 273] worthy to be taken notice of, they ha­ving been unknown hitherto in publick; and in regard that I was present at this entertainment; so I will undertake to re­late them with all the faithfulness imagi­nable.

Madam de Maintenon having for some time hearken'd to the discourse of some of the Ladies, concerning what News lately happen'd in Paris, began to speak thus. Ladies, I am about to give you a relation of a most Tragical Story, which will appear to be the more par­ticular in its kind, the more extraordinary and surprizing it is in it self. I have it, added she, from Father La Chaise's own Mouth, not a­bove two days ago, when I was with him last, and it is so much the more certainly true in regard that it hapned to himself not above four­teen days before. When you have heard all the circumstances of the whole matter you'll be con­vinc'd, that some things are transacted in Pa­ris, which are bury'd in eternal oblivion. And if it so fall out sometimes that such like things are discover'd, tis owing to Providence which brings them to light to convince us of the Vanity of this World, and to make us sensible of what abuses are daily committed among Men. At the same time it must be acknowledg'd, that Gal­lanary is the famous Theatre, where, these Tra­gick Parts are displaid; this occasions more hor­rible [Page 274] crimes than any thing else that I know of, The following History will furnish us with a notable example to prove my Assertion.

‘Father La Chaise told me, that on the 24th of April last past, about a quarter of an hour after twelve a clock at night, when the whole College of Jesuits were in Bed, there came to the Door of the Monastery a Coach with six Horses; and a Footman coming from behind the Coach, rung the Bell at the Gate. The Porter, being in his first Sleep, did not hear him immediately, which made the Footman ring again so loudly, that the Porter was awaken'd at the noise he made. The Porter having ask'd, Who is there? the Footman answer'd, That he desir'd him to open the Gate.’ Brother Am­brose (which is the name of the Porter) told him, That 'twas not in his power, because the Rector of the College had forbid him to open the Gate so late to any one whatever. The Foot-man made answer, that they wanted a Father Confessor for a Person of great Qua­lity, who was just at the point of Death; and that it was a case of very urgent necessity. Brother Ambrose, having understood these words, open'd the Gate, when the Foot-man told him, That he was come to fetch Father La Chaise; that the sick Per­son of whom he had spoke before, whose Name [Page 275] he was not to tell, was desirous to have Father La Chaise, and no body else, for some very weighty reasons, which related to the satisfa­ction of a wounded Conscience, and the Sal­vation of an immortal Soul. Brother Am­brose told him, That he would go up to Father La Chaise's Chamber, and let him know what he said. ‘The Foot-man pray'd him to make all possible haste he could, by reason that no time was to be lost. Bro­ther Ambrose having awaken'd Father La Chaise, inform'd him of what he knew of the matter. Father. La Chaise having ask'd him the Name of the Lord or La­dy that sent for him.’ Brother Ambrose told him, That by the Train and Equipage it should be a Person of the highest Quality. He also told him, that there was a mourning Coach at the Gate, drawn by six black Horses: That the Coachman, Postilion, and four Foot-men, who attended it, were all cloathed in black; that they appear'd as black in their Faces as Negroes; and that they had no Flamboys a­long with them, neither could he devise what might be the meaning of it, because they re­fus'd to tell the Name of him who had sent them.

Father La Chaise being by this time got out of Bed, went down to the Gate himself, where the same Foot-man, who had spoke before to the Porter, [Page 276] said, Good Father I entreat you to get up into this Coach with six Horses. Who is it that sent you to fetch me? reply'd Father La Chaise, Good Father, said the Foot-man, We came from a Person of the first rank in the King­dom, who desires to impart to you something of great consequence before he dies. He is not in­clin'd to have any other Confessor, but your self, and we dare not tell his Name, because we are forbid it. ‘Father La Chaise, who could not discover whose Equipage this was, the Foot-men being all disguis'd by their black Faces, like your very Ne­groes, thought it most convenient to ad­vise with the Rector, Praefect, and other Superiors of the Order, whether they would approve of his going along with those unknown Persons.’ ‘He began to make serious reflections upon the mat­ter; his Head being fill'd with jealou­sies, that perhaps some Person of Qua­lity disgrac'd at Court, and excited by discontent, hatred, or revenge, a­gainst his Person, might by this means endeavour to get him into some private place or another, there to serve him an Italian trick, without being any more to be heard of for ever.’

‘All the good Fathers being got out of their Beds, and having weigh'd the mat­ter with deliberation, it was resolv'd, [Page 277] that Father La Chaise, who was so dear to theirwhole Order, ought not to expose himself to this hazard. The Rector be­ing of opinion, that some body else ought to be sent in his stead. Father Bourdalou generously offer'd himself.’ But being come down, the Foot-man who had spoke to Father La Chaise before told him, That they had orders to bring along with 'em none else but Father La Chaise, and that he need not make any scruple to trust himself with 'em, they being assur'd that he would be in no more danger, than if he staid in the Con­vent. For the rest, they desir'd him to consider, That the Welfare of a Soul lay at stake, and that it was one of the greatest Men at Court, whose Conscience could not be satisfy'd till he had seen him; that there was not much more time to lose; that if he tarry'd one quarter of an hour longer, it was to be fear'd it would be too late, because the sick Person was almost at the last gasp.

‘Father La Chaise, who shews much zeal in matters relating to the Salvation of Souls, being mov'd at these words; en­treated the rest of the Fathers to let him perform his duty in a place whereto his Conscience call'd him; and so, in spite of all the disswasions of the Rector, Prae­fect, and Father Bourdalou, who went down with him to the Gate, he resolv'd [Page 278] to go, whatever might come of it. Ha­ving therefore cross'd himself three times with the sign of the Cross, he went into the Coach. The Coach-man, lashing the Horses soundly with his Whip, drove away with a full Gallop. Father La Chaise, tho it was very dark, did take as much notice as possibly he could of all the Streets and by-lanes thro which they past; and tho he knew exactly all the places throughout that vast City; yet he was never able afterwards to find out any of those parts thro which he was convey'd; the Coach-man being order'd to drive round about some parts of the Town, passing and repassing se­veral times the same Streets, the better to deceive the Father, and to prevent any discovery of those places thro which they went.’

‘In the mean while Father La Chaise lying along the bottom of the Coach, began to make a thousand ominous Re­flections, accusing himself of Imprudence to have so slightly expos'd himself to the utmost hazard of his Life. But as the case now stood, the best advice he could take was, to set his Conscience at rest, and to prepare himself for Death, in case he should have occasion to dye at that instant. Conformably to this Re­solution, [Page 279] he made a full Confession of his Sins to Almighty God, begging par­don for those that he had committed since his last Confession, and for all such as might not then occur to his Memory, adding, that if he had done some ill office to some great Man or another with the King, who stir'd up by his ha­tred against him, had resolv'd to make use of this opportunity to draw him into a Snare, which should cost him his Life; he pray'd God to forgive him, because the Station he was in, of being Con­fessor to the greatest Monarch, made him against his Will, often liable to the Discontents of the Courtiers, who laid claim to some office or another, which were often bestow'd upon others, by his sollicitation.’

‘Having been thus perplex'd in his thoughts for a good half hour, he came to the place where he was to be set down. The Coach having stopt, he saw a Foot-man coming out of a great Gate, which was all hung with black Cloath, that hid the Coat of Arms belonging to the Family, to keep it from his sight. The same Foot-man, having in one Hand a Flamboy made of black Wax, open'd the door of the Coach, and with his o­ther Hand helpt our Father out, who [Page 280] was conducted into a great and and ve­ry fine Palace, all hung with black; several Foot-men all with Flamboys made of black Wax in their Hands stand­ing at the Stair-foot, from whence they led him up Stairs, two stories high back­wards into a very fine Appartment. All the Domestick Servants were cloathed in black, as were likewise their Faces, shining as if they had been true Black-moors. This was contriv'd on purpose to deceive Father la Chaise, who per­haps had seen them a thousand times in his Life time, but was not able to give the least guess at them under this dis­guise.’

‘This Appartment was like all the rest, hung all over with black, and as soon as Father la Chaise was entered, all the Candles were put out at once, so that all upon a sudden he was left quite in the dark, and conducted up to the other end of the Room, where a Chair was set for him under a Cano­py, upon a piece of Tapestry spread upon the floor. When he was set down, he could hear the voice of a Lady bewailing her self, and imploring the mercy of a Person, who as he un­derstood, was about to put her to death for her unfaithfulness. Come, come, Ma­dam,’ [Page 281] said the Nobleman, your Father Con­fessor is ready, you have but a few moments to live, which you may bestow, in settling your Conscience. The time draws near, for me to revenge my self in puting an end to your Life: I pray God to forgive you your sin.

‘Immediately after, the Lady was con­ducted out of an Appartment hard by under favour of the darkness, directly to the place where our Father expect­ed her coming: Father la Chaise by her Confession, was inform'd of the crime, which was the occasion of her death, but she did not say one word, either concerning her own Name, or his, who intended to put her to death, and whatever pains he took, he could not bring out one word from her as to that matter;’ till at last, the Lady perceiving the curiosity of her Confessor, told him, that she was afraid, lest his Curiosity might prove fatal to him, and that therefore she advis'd him not to dive any farther into the matter, or to oblige her to commit an indiscreet Act, because, if her Lo­ver should get the least notice of it, he would certainly be the death of him, and would per­haps provide for him the same entertainment, which she was about to receive,

‘There needed nothing else to si­lence our Father; for in an instant [Page 282] he lost the use of his Tongue, not speaking so much as one word more, but employ'd the rest of his time in hearkening to this disconsolate Lady, whilst she made a particular confession of all her sins, which, having ask'd pardon of Almighty God, she re­ceived Absolution from the Mouth of her Confessor. It is to be observed that during the whole time, as well as before, that the Lady was with him, they were without light; so that he had not the least opportunity to know her. But, to come to an end of this Tragi­cal History; no sooner had the Father Confessor pronounc'd these words: Ab­solvo te, or I absolve you, but a certain Gen­tleman-Usher came to re-conduct this unknown Lady into a Room next by, where a Bath was prepar'd for her. Af­ter she had been undress'd by her wait­ing Gentlewomen, she enter'd the Bath, and being set upon a Chair, the Veins in her Arms and Feet were o­pen'd, till all-her Vital Spirits having left her with the Blood, she dy'd in the same manner, as Seneca did heretofore, this being look'd upon as one of the most gentle kinds of death.’

‘Father la Chaise was re-conducted to the same Coach, which had brought [Page 283] him thither, attended by the same Coach-man and Foot-men, who carry'd him back to the Convent, but by a quite different way, than what they had pass'd thro before, having made so many turnings and windings, that 'twas impossible for the good Father to remem­ber them, who, besides this, was very glad to see himself return safe and sound, and to have paid no dearer for his Journey. As soon as they were come again to the Gate of the Monastery, one of the Foot-men open'd the Coach-door, and rung the Bell to awaken the Por­ter. Father la Chaise coming out of the Coach, had no sooner set his Feet to the ground, but away drove the Coach-man, whip and slash immediately out of sight, not staying to see whether the Gate were open'd or not. As soon as the Porter had let Father la Chaise in, he went up directly to the Chamber of the Rector and the Praefect; O my good Fathers! said he, I never heard of any de­scription of Hell more terrible than what I have seen, since I left you. Every thing about me was black and frightful, the most dismal Fu­neral pomp that ever was beheld. Then Father la Chaise gave 'em an exact ac­count of all that had pass'd, without being able to tell 'em one word, which [Page 284] might contribute any thing towards the discovery of the Noble Man's Name, or of that of the Lady, who had re­ceived Absolution from him. The good Fathers were extremely surpriz'd at the strangeness of the Matter of Fact, which appear'd to 'em so terrible, and so Tra­gical, that the like had not been known in Paris, in the Memory of Man: And what I have told you, added Madam de Maintenon, is true even beyond contra­diction, Father la Chaise being the Man who was concern'd in that Affair, no longer than some few weeks ago; from whose own Mouth I have received it, with all these circumstances, which I have related to you.’

Madam, answered Monsieur de Surlaube, Love is a strange capricious Passion, it is the cause of great Evils in this World, the fewest of which come to our Knowledge, the rest being bury'd in Eternal Oblivion. If Men are once possess'd with jealousie, it makes 'em furious, and incapable of Compassion towards their Mi­stresses; the least slip they make, is sufficient to raise in 'em a suspicion of Unfaithfulness, which is enough for 'em to render their Mi­stresses Criminal in their sight. I cannot deny it, Sir, reply'd Madam de Maintenon, but Methinks this Crime ought not to be look'd up­on as so enormous, as not to be expiated with­out [Page 285] death. A Gentleman of Honour ought to take Compassion of the frailty of the Fair Sex. And if they will needs make it a rule to be inexorable upon that account towards their Mi­stresses, why should not they with justice, pre­tend to the same right, to inflict such rigorous Punishments upon their Lovers when they prove treacherous. We are pretty well acquairted with the Qualities of your Sex, added the Marchi­oness, if Women are sometimes unfaithful, you I am sure a thousand times more; the least thing in the world makes you changeable. How many do you think there are of your Men of Fortune in the World whom Baron has so lively repre­sented in his Comedys? I believe there are very few among you all, but what may find their true Character there; and turn it which side you will, you do us the greatest Injustice in the World, thus to exercise your Tyranny, in exacting a blind Obedience from our Sex, and to deprive us of that small share of Liberty which is allowed us. If you Gentlemen were all to be put to death, as this poor Lady was, of whom you have heard this Tragical Relation, as often as you prove per­jur'd and unfaithful to those several Ladies unto whom you have sworn one after another an invi­olable Love, confirm'd by most sacred Oaths, the common Language of Lovers; I believe verily there would scarce be any one living but that deserv'd to undergo the like Capital punishment.

[Page 286] Hold Madam, said the Marshal de Lorge, you have fairly shewn your skill in pleading the Cause of your Sex; but I hope you will give me leave to tell you, that their natural constitution seems to require from them more Reservedness, Constancy and Fidelity, than from us Men. This is the only Heroick Vertue in your Sex, to be faith­ful; this is the only Charm by which you capti­vate us, and which makes Men so passionate to­wards you, and which besides this, distinguishes Vertuous Women from the crowd of wanton Jilts, and common Prostitues; who ought to be esteem'd as Monsters; and for whom a Man of Honour can never have those sentiments which are, as it were, Spice to make Love savoury to the taste. Insomuch that upon the whole, this fickle Humour in Menought to be consider'd as a slight Trespass, and not as a Capital Crime; as you would wil­lingly represent it. If a Man has more Mistresses than one, he may be respected for all that, as a Gentleman of Honour and Probity; whereas a Woman that prostitutes her self to many, loses inevitably all that modest and innocent behaviour, which are the inseparable Companions of Vertu­ous Women; and without which 'tis impossible for a Man to be charm'd, or to be made sensible of any real satisfaction from a Lady who does not possess these Endowments. The Marshal de Lorge is in the right on't, said the Count de Surlaube. Your too forward Women are just like your sparkling Wines, no body cares to buy them. [Page 287] That which renders Love delicious, and which makes Men amorous and passionate, is that In­nocence which we admire in the Person belov'd. The most real and sweetest pleasure, a Man is capable of enjoying with his Mistress, is, the delight he takes to instruct and breed up a young tender Heart, which may be compar'd to your pure Wines, which are still upon the Lees; or to a Rose gather'd early in the Spring, when it just begins to bud: And that is, what properly ought to be call'd a Maiden-head, without seeking any further for it, as most Men do, who seldom find it any where else, but in conceit, when their Brains are heated with amorous Fancies.

Madam, added the Count, addressing his Speech to Madam de Maintenon, We are here teaching a Doctrine, which may seem to sa­vour somewhat of Libertinism, and which I don't know how it may relish with you: All I have to say is, that considering the circumstances of the time, our Friend Boufflers being so near his Wedding-day, we could scarce pick out a more agreeable and diverting Subject. One may, without Flattery, continu'd the Count laughing, tell him, that he is the happiest of all Men in the choice of a Mistress, who will make him sensible of all those Charms we have spoke of just now with so much Commendation. Mademoiselle de Grammont is one of those rare Beauties, which have not as yet been brought [Page 288] to light, and whom the God of Love himself takes care to instruct in his Charms, and to make her sensible of all his mysteries. The Abby of St. Cyr, where she has resided of late, has not been a little instrumental in preserving these charming Qualities, which few of your young Ladies in Paris can boast of, who perhaps have been more con­versant in the Affairs of the World, and have had the opportunity of making more Conquests, but which, if truly considered, are nothing but Vanities. For example, why must we be pe­ster'd with so many Abbey-Lubbers about the Town, who make it their chief business to visit Ladies, and to talk to them of their Passion? How many beautiful Damsels are there in Paris, who are fond of the flattering Praises bestow'd upon them by these insinuating Tartuffs, who ought to say their Breviary, instead of playing the Gallants? I am not able to endure, Madam, continu'd the Count, all these Extravagan­cies, I cannot but pity on one side those poor sim­ple Creatures, who suffer themselves thus to be cajoled by these Sparks with their little Bands; and on the other, I am at the same time sur­prized at the Impudence of these Rascals, who acting the Libertine, do not make any Con­science of seducing abundance of young Gentle­women of very good Quality, who quite spoil their Fortune by these extravagant Courses.

[Page 289] ‘I do declare to you, reply'd the Marchi­oness de Maintenon, that I am no great Friend of these Sparks of the Collar-band; and if his Majesty wou'd follow my Advice in this particular. I wou'd have 'em meddle with nothing but their Breviary, without giving 'em the opportunity to scamper about to Debauch our young Women. If they have not the Gift of Continency, and the Frailty of their Flesh will not admit of this Doctrin taught by the Holy Fathers; I wou'd have their black Coats pull'd over their Ears, to give 'em instead of it, a red Cloak and Sword, that they may have liberty to Marry.’

‘O Madam, answer'd the Count, 'tis under the Cover of their long Robes that they play the best of their Game; not to take notice here, of their Revenues and fat Be­nefices, which make 'em appear so fresh­colour'd and of so ruddy a Complexion: It seems to me, as if these Sparks had alone the Touch-stone in Hand, to try the good­ness of all sorts of Metals; there is not a savoury Bit in Paris, but they have it at their Devotion. The most part of young Women are led away by 'em, as it were by so many Sirens, which inchant 'em by their Allurements, and the sweetness of their Voice; for most of these Gentlemen are well skill'd in Musick, which is in great [Page 290] esteem among the Fair Sex, who love to have their Ears tickl'd with harmonious Strains, by which Bait they may easily in­chant 'em so far, as to catch 'em in their Nets.’

‘Let us not be any longer disturb'd with these Abbots, said Monsieur Boufflers, let us talk of us Men of the Blade, who are the truely generous Souls; being very ser­viceable both to the State, and to the Com­mon-wealth of Beauty, whose Representa­tives they always treat upon Honour. We are, added he, like Gold, the truest and best of all Metals, and if we were consci­ous to our selves of having the least wrong'd the Female Sex, we shou'd think our selves unworthy of wearing a Sword. Hold, Sir, reply'd the Count de Surlaube, you run too fast; you do very well to Hector it in so good Company: For if we shou'd begin to rehearse all your amour­ous Exploits, I question whether you cou'd with Justice, make appear so much Since­rity on your side. But come, added he, we will not be too hard upon you at this time; Marriage is likely to cure you of this Vola­tile Humour, which was wont to carry you from one fair Lady to another; and you will be forc'd at last, in spite of your self, to submit to those Chains and Fetter-Locks, which Love has prepar'd for you [Page 291] by Mademoiselle de Grammont. I am per­swaded, you will look upon 'em as very glorious for you, because you have all the reason in the World to flatter your self, of having obtain'd the most precious Jewel in France, and having marry'd the most ac­complish'd Lady of the whole Court.’

The Duke du Maine, who had not as yet been to complement Monsieur de Boufflers and Mademoiselle de Grammont upon their in­tended Marriage, coming into the Room, did for some few moments interrupt their former Discourse. And the Marchioness de Maintenon, having look'd upon her Watch, to see what a Clock it might be, rose up from her Seat, and told the Company, That she was, by Order from his Majesty, to be at Court at a prefix'd time, about some Business of great Consequence. As soon as she was gone into her Coach, the Lords and Ladies began to sit round again, every one in his own place, passing away the time, till the Colla­tion shou'd be ready, which was preparing for 'em. The Duke du Maine told 'em, ‘That he was just now come from the Ab­bot Tallement's, where he had spent an Hour the most agreeably, that ever he did in his Life-time.’ The Ladies ask'd him, With what? The Duke du Maine told 'em, ‘That he had seen there, some of the finest Pictures that cou'd be, and among the rest, [Page 292] a most curious Piece, in which the Ladies have a more particular Concern. In this Picture, said he, are contracted all the Per­fections of the Fair Sex, to that degree, that there is not any one wanting, to make the Copy absolutely like the Original. To be short, it is an universal Piece, where all at once, are represented both their good and bad Qualities. And, what is the most surprising, all is done at one and the same time, without the least altera­tion.’

The Ladies being over-curious to be bet­ter inform'd concerning all the Circum­stances of this Picture, which seem'd to be a Riddle to 'em, and surpass'd all their Ima­gination, begg'd heartily of the Duke, to give 'em a full Description of it. ‘This I will do, reply'd the Prince, with a certain malicious Smile, but it is purely out of Com­plaisance and Obedience to your Commands. I am sensible, that Ladies love to hear a De­clamation in their Praise, and that they wou'd willingly have their good Qualities made known to the World; and I know not any thing which will suit better with their Humour, or please 'em better, than this following Description. I was just now, continu'd he, with the Abbot de Talle­ment, one perhaps of the most curious Men in Europe. After he had conducted me in­to [Page 293] his Closet, he shew'd me a Piece, in which was represented a very ugly Head: It had 3 Mouths, 6 Eyes, and 3 Noses, so that it appear'd to me like a Monster. Besides this, there was painted on one side a Magpye and a Peacock; and on the other, a smoaking Chimney.’

‘The Abbot ask'd me, Whether I under­stood the Riddle, and whether I was sensi­ble of the rarity of the Piece? I answer'd him, That I cou'd see nothing, but what appear'd to me very gross and confus'd. And that besides, I did not understand the meaning of this Hieroglyphick, desiring him to explain it to me.’ ‘Sir, said the Abbot, pray shut your left Eye, and with the other, look through this Hole.’ ‘I did as the Ab­bot had directed me, who having taken a Cylinder, made of a piece of polish'd Steel, he fix'd it opposite to the Hole through which I look'd. In an instant, this Monster of a Head, the Magpye, the Peacock and the Chimney-piece, were, by a sudden Metamorphosis, chang'd into a Woman's Head, the finest and handsomest that ever I saw. The Abbot, having with one Hand, cover'd the Figure which represented the Magpye, the Mouths immediately disap­pear'd; so that nothing was seen in the Cylinder but a Woman's Head, without a Mouth: Afterwards, having laid his Hand [Page 294] upon one of the Eyes, that were painted on the Piece, I cou'd not see any thing in the Cylinder, but one Eye. I never in all my Life time, added the Duke du Maine, have seen such a curious Piece in the Opticks.’ The Ladies, who began to be impatient to hear the Explication of it, cou'd not for­bear interrupting the Prince, desiring him that he wou'd be pleas'd to explain to 'em the several Pieces, of which this Picture was compo'd. ‘Ladies, said the Duke du Maine, the 6 Eyes denote, that the Women wou'd see all Things; the 3 Mouths, that they always begin to Talk first, and leave off last; the 3 Noses give us to understand, that they have a very quick Scent, and won't be easily deceiv'd; the Peacock shews their Vanity; and the Magpye signifies, that they are always Chattering and Quarrel­ling: Lastly, the Chimney and Smoak are a Representation of their Inconstancy and fickle Humour; and all these Qualities are so essential to the Perfection of the Head, represented in the Cylinder; that if but any one of 'em be wanting, the whole is imperfect, as I have told you before.’

‘We must confess, said all the Ladies in general, this Picture has somewhat sur­prising in it.’ ‘You must look upon it, added the Marshal, as a Panegyrick, in Short-hand-Writing, upon your Sex. It's [Page 295] true, Sir, reply'd Madam de Tilladet, but this Encomium only expresses our bad Quali­ties. What, said she, addressing her self to the Duke du Maine, Sir, won't you do us the favour as to give us an account of some of your Opticks, which may make amends for this, by representing us on the best side, with all those rare Accomplish­ments which captivate your Hearts, and make you our Slaves to wear our Chains, and to pay us Hommage. This is true, answer'd the Duke du Maine, but it is much against our Will. At the same time, Ladys, added he, I wou'd not have you think me so vain, as to pretend to set up for a Critick, or to draw upon my self the ill Will, as poor Orpheus did heretofore, of so strong a party, as the Women are. Whatever I have said, was done meerly out of complaisance, and to satisfy your Curi­osity.’

Madam de Tilladet seeing how dextrous the Duke was at turning the matter from himself, and in making his Apology to the fair Sex, for whom he had always shewn a most particular esteem, being one of the most Gallant Princes about the Court; told him, ‘That 'twas resolv'd among 'em, that all the Ladys there present, shou'd go to Morrow, in a Body to the Abbot Tallement, on purpose to ask him, whether, what the [Page 296] Prince had related to 'em, were really so; and that if they cou'd get this Picture, so injurious to their Sex, into their Hands, they shou'd make a Bonfire of it, and burn it in some publick Place, as 'tis usual to do with Books that treat of Magick. I must confess to you, Ladies, reply'd the Duke du Maine, that I took it no otherwise at first, till the Abbot Tallement discover'd to me the whole business, and convinc'd me, that every particular of it, was a ne­cessary consequence of the Rules of Op­ticks, He shew'd me another Piece, no less surprising than the former, and which seems to contain somewhat supernatural in its kind: It is a Venice Looking-glass, which represents People that look into it, stark naked, If I were Monsieur de Boufflers, I wou'd go thither with Mademoiselle de Grammont. This Looking-glass will give him a faithful representation of those Beau­ties, which young Ladys take so much pains to hide from their Lovers: And at once looking only in the Glass with his Mistress, he may learn more in one Moment, than two Months Courtship, and serious Con­versation are able to teach him. Away, away, with these Triffles, answer'd Ma­demoiselle de Grammont, with a charming and pleasant Air, the Marshal has no occasi­on either for a Confident or for a Looking-Glass [Page 297] to discover my Defects. He is wise enough of himself, not to be surpris'd or to be impos'd upon.’

‘Ladys, reply'd the Duke du Maine, since these pieces of Gallantry do put you out of Humour, come let us have a touch at Mora­lity. The Abbot, said he, shew'd me among the rest, another Piece, which was no less surprising than the former, and as far as I remember, I never saw any thing finer, and more curious in my Life time. Well, let us hear what it is, said Monsieur de Boufflers, but let me desire you, Sir, not to offer any thing, to affront the fair Sex: I must needs tell you, that I am so very nice in that point, that I declare to you, I shall be ready to revenge their Quarrel, and even not to grudge, to employ my Sword in their just Defence, if there shou'd be occasion for it. Wherefore Sir, added he smiling, and you had best have a care what you do. No, no, reply'd the Duke du Maine, this has no relation more to one Sex than the other; but all People are concern'd in it.’

‘The Abbot Tallement shew'd me a large Painting, divided into three Columns: In the middle Column on the right hand, was represented, first of all, our Holy Father the Pope, as being the Chief of the Church, af­ter him follow all the Cardinals; Arch-bishops, Bishops, Prelates, Abbots, Cu­rates, [Page 298] and in general, all the rest of the Members of the Clergy. In the Column on the right side, you might see a great ma­ny Portraitures, representing Temporal Princes, as Emperors, Monarchs, Kings and other Princes, follow'd by the Nobi­lity and a multitude of Courtiers. The Column, which was on the left side, was fill'd up, with the third Estate representing the Courts of Justice; where you might see the Pictures of Lords Chief Justices and Judges, Masters of the Rolls, Counsel­lors, Attorneys, Sollicitors, Notaries, Tipstaffs, Serjeants and such like. So, that this whole Piece was fill'd up, with an infinite number of all sorts of Persons be­longing to the three Estates, every one in his Habit, according to the rank he bore in the Church, in the State or in the Courts of Judicature. The Abbot, after I had taken notice of the Medley, desir'd me to put one Eye to a Hole at one end of the Pic­ture, and from thence to look upon the Cylinder which he had plac'd opposite to it, at the other end of it: All these different Objects, having made a reflection upon the Cylinder of polish'd Steel, this Instrument did represent, no otherwise, than in a Looking-glass, a Death's Head, extremely well done; to put us in mind of the end of all Mortal Men, who in what station so­ever, [Page 299] must all pay this last Tribute to Na­ture.’

‘I assure you, said Monsieur Boufflers, this seems to me, to be one of the most curious Pieces that ever was made in the World, and I will give you my Word, that Made­moiselle de Grammont and I, will to Morrow, do our selves the Honour to go and wait upon the Abbot, and take a view of all his Curiosities. But that which is most admi­rable in this Piece, is, added the Duke du Maine, that if you cover any part of these Pictures, contain'd in the three Columns, with your Hand; the Death's Head, which is reflected in the Cylinder, appears defec­tive, and there is some part or another of it wanting; to convince us, that none can be exempted from the unavoidable necessity of Dying. We entreat you, said the La­dies, directing their Discourse to the Duke du Maine, let us not talk any more of this dole­ful and frightful Subject, Death. Let us rather return to our Jollities, and divert our selves with some Pleasant Story or ano­ther; they are most seasonable at this time, when we are met together, on purpose to be merry and pleasant. Mademoiselle de Gram­mont is most concern'd in the matter, and it is chiefly upon her account, that the La­dys desire it. Because you will have it so, said the Duke du Maine, I will relate to you [Page 300] another very extraordinary Story, which perhaps you will look upon, as one of the most refin'd pieces of Necromancy; the whole being altogether full of Gallantry.’

‘The Abbot, continu'd he, having given us a view of all the Rarities in his Closet, took me on one side, whispering me in the Ear.’ Pray my Lord, bring the Ladys who came along with you, into this Spacious Appart­ment, I have a mind to shew you the Master­piece of all my Rarities; but don't you speak one word to 'em, you will divert your self extreme­ly, provided you let 'em know nothing of the matter; because they will perhaps be unwilling to see this Curiosity which indeed, will be very well worth your trrouble, and will undoubtedly give you more satisfaction, than any thing that you saw before. ‘I went therefore, to fetch in the Ladys, and having taken the Dutchess de Chevreuse by the Hand, to lead her into a very fair and spacious Room, which was just by; the rest of the Ladys follow'd us thither. No sooner were we all enter'd the Room, but the Abbor, having drawn a Curtain, and open'd certain Windows; we look'd into a great Plain, which extended it self beyond our Sight, and which appear'd to us, to be one of the best and fairest Land­skips in the World.’

‘Sir, said the Abbot to me, do you see that Country-man and young Country-damsel [Page 301] there in the Meadows, I will make 'em come hither in an instant, in the same moment that I give the Word of Com­mand, they shall come and present them­selves in this Looking-glass.’ This was an extraordinary fine Venice-glass, of about six Foot high, cover'd with a green Curtain; the Ladys, who suspected some trick or ano­ther, began to laugh, but at the same time, gave the Abbot to understand, that they were very impatient to see the issue of it, because the Peasant and the Damsel were at above a Mile's distance from us: The Abbot, to satisfie the curiosity of the Ladys, who were very eager, took a Speaking Trum­pet (the Invention of Sir Samuel Moreland, an English Knight) and pronounc'd these Words; You young Damsel, pull off your shoes, and come hither. The Damsel obey'd imme­diately, and at that very instant, appear'd in the Looking-glass. For the Abbot, having drawn away the Curtain, which cover'd the Glass, and told the Ladys, that they shou'd take notice of what they saw; they were very much surpris'd to see the same Damsel stark Naked in the Glass, which made 'em put their hands before their Eyes, tho' at the same time, they laugh'd as heartily as they cou'd. ‘Sir, said they, we have e­nough of this, it being more than we are able to comprehend; and we know our [Page 302] shapes well enough before hand, without your Inchanting Looking-glass. Lady's answer'd the Abbot, this is not all, I have another diversion for you, before we part.’ You Damsel, said he, put on your Cloaths, and go from whence you come. This being done, he again took his Speaking Trumpet, and having call'd the Peasant, he immediately appear'd in the Looking-glass in the like manner, without any thing to cover his Nakedness; at this Spectacle, the Ladys with blushes in their Cheecks, run quite to the other end of the Room, tho' they cou'd not forbear laughing at the same time.

‘For my part, said the Duke du Maine, I did all that lay in my Power, to make the Ladys return to the Looking-glass, but cou'd not prevail upon 'em. At last having diverted our selves with these several sorts of most surprising Adventures; the Ab­bot commanded the Peasant to take his Cloaths, and be gone immediately, which he did in an instant, and flew away from our Eyes like Lightning.’ Good faith! Sir, said I, you are more skilful than all the Ma­gicians put together; I wish I cou'd learn your Art, the better to divert some Ladys at Court, who sometimes give me the Honour of a Visit. ‘Thus Ladys, continu'd the Prince, I have given you a very diverting Story; which, methinks, shou'd please you all, and if you [Page 303] will vouchsafe to take my advice, I wou'd have every one of you get you such a Looking-glass in your Chamber, in which you may be able to take a full view of your Beauty, and of those Charms that make Men to be such Fools, as to run after you, and which you are always so careful to hide from our sight.’ Sir, answer'd Ma­dam de Tilladet, if such sort of Pictures were expos'd to publick view, they wou'd appear fright­ful to you; it is more safe to have 'em only in your imagination. Nothing is more in esteem among us, than what is conceal'd from us, and it is perhaps that which makes Love relish so well, and draws that respect from you, which you pay to the fair Sex.

Supper-time being come, the Company broke up, leaving the Marshal de Bouffiers and Mademoiselle de Grammont by themselves, who spent the rest of the time in Amourous, Caresses; for Monsieur Boufflers did not part with his Mistress till pretty late at Night, when he went home to Bed; but his Head being disturb'd with Amorous Fancies, he was not able to rest all the Night, some­times he flatter'd himself that in time, his Mistress's Heart wou'd be mollifi'd, who hitherto look'd but coldly upon him, yet so as to treat him Honourably and Civilly. I want something else besides Complements, said he, this not being that which can make me happy.

[Page 304] Thus he tormented himself Day and Night, which made him appear in a very Me­lancholy and Languishing condition, his Countenance being quite alter'd, so as to be scarce like himself; which at last turn'd to his Advantage; for Mademoiselle de Gram­mont having taken particular notice of it, begun to Commiserate his Condition, and one time when he complain'd to her of his Sufferings; Truly Sir, said she, I am mov'd with Compassion for you, and I begin to hear some share in your Trouble. She spoke these words with so sweet and so charm­ing an Air, that the Marshal did now no longer question, but that he was belov'd by her. Monsieur de Boufflers having receiv'd this assurance, manag'd his Affairs with so much dexterity, that he at last overcame the rigor of his fair Mistress.

The news being soon spread abroad, that he was upon the point of being Marry'd, every one came to Complement our two Lovers, and the King himself, who had re­ceiv'd the News from Madam Maintenon's own Mouth, spoke to our General, con­cerning this Match, in very obliging Terms; which prov'd a means to engage his Mistress more strictly to him than before. They spent their whole time in nothing but Feast­ing, going abroad, Balls, Plays; and such like diversions, which made a great noise [Page 305] about the Town, being all perform'd with a great deal of Magnificence; so that this Con­quest cost our General not only a great deal of Trouble, but also good store of Mony. In the mean time, in regard that he was of a ve­ry hot Constitution, and that his Mistress was the nicest Woman in the World, as to the point of granting him the least Favour, besides that he bore so extraordinary a Res­pect to her, as scarce to dare to steal a Kiss from her; he resolv'd (in order to allay a lit­tle his natural Heat) to court a pretty young Damsel, whom he had seen at Boulogn, not far from Paris, imagining, that since his Match was so far advanc'd, such a piece of Gallantry, if it shou'd happen to be discover'd, cou'd not prove any Obstacle to it. Conform bly to this Resolution, he often went to visit this Damsel, disguis'd in the Habit of a Country-man, for fear of being known by any one, to his Prejudice.

One Day, Mademoiselle de Grammont hap­pen'd to go to the same Village, with some of her Friends, to see a Nurse who had had the Nursing of her, when the Marshal came just from visiting his Country-Mistress; and having been observ'd by the Nurse, Pray, Mademoiselle, said she, look upon that young Country-Fellow, what a genteel Spark he is; he comes very frequently of late to that House, to see a certain young Damsel, the handsomest, I [Page 306] believe in a hunder'd Miles round. The Mar­shal was so near 'em, that they might easily discern his Face, which made Mademoiselle de Grammont say to one of the Ladies that was with with her; I vow my Dearest he is as like the Marshal de Boufflers, as one drop of Water to another. The Marshal having heard his Name mention'd by his Mistress, immediately scam­per'd out of the Village, to an adjacent Wood, where he chang'd his Country-Habit, for his own Cloaths, which he had left there before, with one of his Servants.

Mademoiselle de Grammont, being curious without any further design, having not the least suspicion that it was the General, whom she had seen come out, wou'd needs go to see this fair Country-damsel; and was extremely taken with her charming Beauty. Her Nurse told her, that she was natural Daughter of the Count de Harcourt, by whom her Mother, who was as Beautiful as the Daughter, had had two or three Children; and as to the Country-man, who came to Visit her, no body cou'd tell who he was, but that he was generally believ'd to be some Person of Quality under a disguise. Mademoiselle de Grammont, making no fur­ther reflections upon the matter, only told the Nurse, That she cou'd not imagine who he shou'd be, but that he resembl'd as much as one Brother does another, the Person she had spoke [Page 307] of before. O! reply'd the good Woman, em­bracing her, I have heard it talk'd of among us, that you are going to be Marry'd to that Monsieur Boufflers, who makes so much noise in the World. Indeed it is much discours'd of, said she, my Friends are busie in making up the Match: if it comes to a conclusion, you shall be at the Wedding. That is evident of it self, answer'd she, What? a Child, that I have so carefully Nurs'd, shou'd she not let me have a share in that merry day? Alas! if your dear Father, the late Marshal de Grammont, God bless his Soul, had been alive, I shou'd have sat at the upper end of the Table; Ay marry shou'd I, because he had promis'd it me a great while ago. Don't trouble thy self upon that account, Foncette, reply'd Mademoiselle de Grammont, taking her by the hand, thou shalt certainly be there, tho' not just at the upper end of the Table, for thou know'st that that belongs to the Mistress of the Feast; all my Kindred have a kindness for thee for my sake. When she had spoke these words, she put a Piece of Gold in her Hand, and so went in her Coach with her Companions, and an Aunt of hers, dire­ctly taking their way to Paris.

But the Marshal de Boufflers, who had watch'd their coming back upon the road, ac­costing 'em on foot with one Servant only, they desir'd him to come into their Coach; Mademoiselle de Grammont, having ask'd him, what cou'd induce him to take so long a walk? I [Page 308] do not very well know, Mademoiselle, said he, rubbing his Forehead, and looking upon her with a passionate Eye, those Commotions which Love has rais'd in my Heart, have such strange Influences over my Spirit, that I think the soli­tary Deserts and frightful Forests, the most suitable to my Humour. The Ladies, who were present, did not in the least question but that this Complement was address'd to Mademoiselle de Grammont, who, at this time, had the least share in it; his Mind being at that instant, taken up with the Beauty of his Country-damsel, whom nevertheless, he was fain to abandon at least for some time, for fear of spoiling the whole Business, if the Hony-Pot shou'd be discover'd: In the mean while finding, that by the overflowing Heat of his Love, he had spoil'd the Country-dam­sel's Shape, he thought it most convenient to provide her a Husband, before it was too late; and having found out a Water-man of his Acquaintance belonging to the River Seine, he gave him 20 or 30 Pistoles, as a Portion with his Wife, to make him some amends for his Horn-work, which he afterwards took care to make a regular Fortification, by add­ing several new Bastions and Half-moons in the Front of the Place.

Some Weeks after, Mademoiselle de Gram­mont, who had not yet forgot the beautiful Country-damsel she had seen at Boulogn, talk­ing [Page 309] of the Gallantries of the Count de Har­court, whose Mistress this young Woman's Mother had been, told the Marshal, that she had seen there, a certain Man as like him as cou'd be in all respects, except in his Cloaths, which were very ordinary. The Marshal, who other­wise is not very shamefac'd, blush'd at these words; his Heart accusing him of Treache­ry, the common vice of Men, and our fair Lady having observ'd his Colour to go and come, Ha! said she, one while a Flush appears in your Face, and anon you grow pale again. Sir, surely you have had a finger in the Pye, as the say­ing is, and indeed your looks betray your Guilt. And what Guilt pray, Mademoiselle, reply'd the Marshal? No less than high Treason, said she with a smile; Possibly you have infring'd that fi­delity which you have so often sworn to me you wou'd keep inviolably. Certainly, my most char­ming Creature, answer'd the Marquess de Bouf­flers, you are only in jest, and throwing him­self at her Feet, is it posible, said he, for you to imagine, that any thing in the World, cou'd appear to me more worthy of all my care, and that does better deserve the entire disposal of my Heart, than you? O! do me more Justice, or else I shall not be able to live any longer. Then I wou'd have you live; said she, altho' possibly I might be mistaken, yet I am willing to believe you the most innocent of all Men. Can any thing be parallel'd to my present happiness, cry'd the Mar­shal [Page 310] transported with Joy; Since I have met with a Person endu'd with so much Good Nature and Generosity, and capable of curing her self so soon, of the Distemper of Mistrustfulness, which is certainly the greatest Evil that can befal any one in this World. For either it is requisite to relye upon a Confident or not, and if one cannot put trust in a Friend, what satisfaction can there be in this Life? You say very well, Sir, reply'd the young Lady, but you'll allow, that if one loves a Friend, one is very unwilling to lose him, and that is the true cause of Mistrustfulness. Then you own you love me a little, said the Mar­shal, looking upon her very tenderly. At this very Moment my adorable Deity it is, that I can properly call my self happy. And do you question it, Sir, reply'd Mademoiselle de Gram­mont, is it possible to marry a Man, without lov­ing him? Indeed that is a thing, I cou'd never do; I shou'd not be of the same mind, as some of our light House-wives are, who Marry a Man meerly to serve 'em as a Cloak for their extrava­gancies. Your Gallants, continu'd she, will find very slender entertainment with me. When I am Marry'd my Husband is to be my All in All, and I shou'd think my self very happy, if I were sole Mistress of his Affections. And as I never can love any Man besides him, whom my Destiny has provided for me; so he ought not to doubt, but that I shall always be entirely at his Devotion. And is it easie to be believ'd, Mademoiselle, [Page 311] reply'd Boufflers, that a Person so adorable at your self, whose singular Merits are so well known to all the World, and who has been always sur­rounded with so many Adorers; shou'd never as yet have had a kindness for any Gentleman before? Sure your Heart must needs be made of a very hard sort of Metal, to have been Proof against so many Sighs and Tears, as have been so lavish­ly bestow'd upon you. Certainly 'tis almost past belief, considering you are so Lovely, so Engaging and Transcendently Beautiful. Nothing is more true than what I have told you, Sir, reply'd the fair Lady, and I did not deliver my Mind with so much freedom, on purpose to be comple­mented by you; but only to let you know, that I shall for ever place all my Joy and Felicity in preserv­ing my Heart entire for him, who has so much de­serv'd it.

But now the time of Courtship being pass'd, it was thought convenient to come to the Consummation of a Match, in which the Court took so much concern; and the Mar­shal was preparing to go to Church with Mademoiselle de Grammont; which he did one Morning early at six a Clock, when they were Marry'd by the Archbishop of Paris in the Church of our Lady. The Ceremony be­ing over, and the Marshal thinking himself now at the very point of casting Anchor in the Port of Felicity, he cou'd not without a great deal of affliction understand from [Page 312] Mademoiselle de Grammont, that she was not at present in a condition to go to Bed with him, being disturb'd at that time, with a cer­tain Infirmity incident to all young Women once a Month: The Marshal wou'd have made a Jest of it, but his Lady being positive in her Resolution, he was so Complaisant, as to languish three Days longer. The next Day after the Wedding, a great number of Persons of Quality, who were invited to a sumptuous Feast and Ball, that was to be that Evening; came to Congratulate our Marshal for the happy Minutes he had enjoy'd the Night be­fore with his Spouse; whom they look'd upon as a Person so full of Charms, as to be capable of giving all possible satisfaction, as to what Men can ima­gine most delicious in Love; But he, who had not as yet tasted of the Sweat-meat, receiv'd their Complements with so much coldness and indiffe­rency, that the whole Company was much sur­pris'd at it. The Count de Montal at last, unto whom the Marshal, as to a most intimate Friend, had told the business, unfolded the Riddle to some, who made themselves very merry with it in our General's presence. The Marriage being at last consummated with a great deal of satisfaction on both sides, they receiv'd for 8 or 10 Weeks succes­sively, the Visits of most Persons of Quality at Court; and the Marshal after having reap'd the first Fruits of the Matrimonial State, was by vertue of his Majesties special Command, oblig'd to go to Flanders, not without a most sensible regret of being forc'd so soon to quit his adorable Spouse.