There was only one kind (replyed he) but since it is the mostterrible of all, I have no mind to expose my self unto it. When we are in a place more convenient (replyed Cyrus) and when I have more leasure, you shall instruct me with the conclusion of your adventure, but in the Interim I pray tell me how fares the Prince Thrasibulus, and the fair Alcionide? they are both of them so happy in each other, replyed Leontidus, that nothing can trouble their felicity unlesse the thought of your mis▪fortunes, and of that, they are very sensibly greived; also they both of them charged me to tell you, how sadly they think themselves concerned for you, and the Prince Thrasibulus in particular commanded me to make a tender unto you of all that is in his power, & I left him in a resolution of coming to serve you in person, if he understood from me that the war was like to last long, and to send him word how the true state of things doth stand, was his chief reason of his sending me unto you.
To spend no time in commending the painter, who must draw this fine peice, (said Spitridates) I beseech you oblige him to begin his work. Araminta seconding Spitridates, Democedes began his relation, addressing his speech unto the Queen of Pontus,
THE HISTORY OF SAPHO.
SINCE it is very naturall for every one to commend such things in which themselves have interests, I think Madam, it will plead my excuse, if in commending the admirable Sapho, I also commend her country, because it is my own; and if in observing unto you all the advantages of her birth, I tell you, that she was born in one of the most delectable places in the world. The very truth is Madam, The Isle of Lesbos is both so pleasant, and so fertile, as the Egean sea hath none comparable unto it: This Isle is bigg enough in some places to make one think it is joyned to the Continent, but it is none of those which are so mountanous as they seem to be, only a huge masse of rocks in the midst of the sea: Nor is it like some of those which having no rising ground in them, seem alwayes exposed unto fury of the waves, which inviron them: But on the contrary, the Isle of Lesbos, can boast of all the varieties which any great kingdome joyned to the continent, can produce. For towards the East, it hath mountains and great woods, and towards the West, meadows and pleasant plaines. The aire there is pure and healthy, the goodness of the ground produceth plenty: commerce is great and free, and the Continent so neer towards Phrygia, that in two houres one may when they please see a forraigne Court. Moreover, Mytilene the Metropolis, is so excellently well built, and hath two such goodly ports, that strangers admire them, and find much delight in staying there.
This Madam, is the place of Sapho's birth, The wise Pittacus is the Prince of it, and attracts an infinite number of accomplished men. He had a son called Tysander, a man the most rarely qualified in the world, and who did contribute much to the pleasure of the place, yet since it is long since he dyed, I shall speak no more of him, though he was one of Saphoes Adorers.
Now Madam, after I have acquainted you with the place of her birth, I will say somthing of her quality, she was the daughter of a man of note, called Scamandogenes of so noble a race, that no family in Mytilene could shew a longer or more unquestionable pedegree: Sapho again had the advantage to be the daughter unto a Father and Mother, who were persons of great spirits and virtue, but she was so unfortunate as to loose them so soon, as she received from them only her first inclinations unto goodness, for she was but six years of age when they dyed, tis true, they left [Page 86] her under the tuition of a Cousin, who had all requisite qualities for the education of a young person, and they left her an estate much below her ment, yet enough, not to stand in need unto any; nay more, to appear very decent and handsomely in the wo [...]ld.
Yet she had a brother called Charaxes, who was left very rich: For Scamandrogines when he dyed, divided his Estate very inequally, and left much more unto his sonne then his daughter, though, to say truth, he did not deserve it, and though she deserved a Crown. Indeed Madam, I do not thinke all Greece ever had a person so comparable unto Sapho, yet I shall not now relate unto you any passages of her infancy: for she was so very little while a Child, that at twelve years of age, she was spoken of as a person whose beauty, spirit, and judgment were already [...]pe, and made all the world to wonder: only thus much let mee tell you, that never was in any found, inclinations more noble, nor a greater aptnesse to learn any thing she desired to know.
However, though Sapho was charming even from her very Cradle, yet I will draw you the picture of her person and mind, only as she is at this present, to the end you may the better know her.
Give me leave to tell you then Madam, that though you here speak of Sapho as the most charming person of all Greece, yet you must not imagine her to be one of those, in whom Env [...]e cannot finde a fault: But yet you must know, that though she be none of those which I speak of, yet she is able to inspire greater passions then the greatest beauty of the Earth: And thou [...]h she sayes she is very low, when she would detract from her selfe, yet she is of a reasonable stature: but so noble, and so well made as possibly can be desired. As for her Complexion, it is none of the highest Lustre, yet so well, as none can say but that she is very faire: But her eyes are so unexpressably lovely, so fine, so sweet, so qu [...]ck, so amorous, and so sprightly, as the lustre of them strikes to the very heart of those she looks upon: The truth is, they sparkle like fire, and yet have such a passionate sweetnesse, as shews that Vivacity and Languer are not things incompatible in the eyes of Sapho: That which made their greatest lustre was, that there never was a greater opposition then was between the black and white of her eyes, and yet this great opposition did not cause any harshnesse to appeare in them: but there was such an amorous kind of spirit which did sweeten them in such a charming manner, as I do not believe there was ever any person, whose looks were more dreadfull. Moreover, she had many things which are seldome found together: For her physiognomic was both subtle and modest, and yet she had a kind of g [...]andure and haughtinesse in her Garbe and Aire: Her face was ovall, her mouth little and redd, an [...]her hands so admirable, as if they were made to take hearts; o [...] if you knew how dearly she loved the Muses, you would say they were worthy to gather the fairest slowers of Pernassus. But Madam, these are not they which make Sapho most amiable: For the charms of her wit do infinitely transcend those of her beauty: And indeed it is of so vast an extent, as it may most truly be said, that what she understands not; cannot be reach'd by any other: And she is so wonderfully apt to learn any thing, that she hath made it her owne, before you would think she began to learn
First, she had naturally an inclination to composeverse; and she has so happily improved her selfe, as none whoever excells her: And she hath invented such singular measures, as Hesiode and Homer were ignorant of; and have found such an approbation in the world, as they that bear the name of the inventor unto this day and are called Saphiques.
She wrote also most admirably in Prose, and there was an amorous Character upon all the works of this rare Lady, that she moved and softned the hearts of all such as read what shee writ. I have seen her compose a Song upon a sudden, which was a thousand times more moving then the mourning Elegie could b [...]and her wit had such an amorous way with it; as none other besides her selfe ever had. She expressed her selfe in such things as were most difficult, most delicately: And she knew so well how to read an Anatomy Lectur upon an amorous heart (fit be lawfull to say [...]o) that she could make an exact description of all its jealousies, all its inquietudes, all its impatiencies, all its joyes, all its disgusts, its murmures, [Page 87] its dispairs, its hopes, its feares, its revotls, and all the tumultuous imaginations of it.
Moreover, the most admirable Sapho did not only know what belonged to matters of Love, but also much better what belonged to matters of generosity: Indeed she knew so perfectly how both to write and speak of every thing, that there was nothing which did not come within the compasse of her knowledg; and yet one would not imagine it a knowledge infused: for Sapho had seen all that was worthy of sight, and took much p [...]ines to be instructed in all that was worthy of curiosity.
Moreover she played upon the Lute, and sung passing well, she danced with an excellent grace, and would divert her self and others most admirably in a harmless Rallary; and which was most admirable in her: This person who was so knowing in so many severall things knew them without the least spark of ostentation or pride, and without scorning those who knew them not; her discourse is so naturall, so free, so easie, and so gallant, as one should never hear her talk in generall Company, but of such things as a person of a good wit might talk of without having studyed for what she knew: Not but that knowing men might see that Nature alone could not arrive at that height she did; but it was because she was so carefull to keep her self within the Sphere of her own Sex, as she almost never spoke of any thing but such as was within the compass of a Ladies knowledge, and it was to her very singular good friends, that she would impart the depth of her knowledge unto: yet it must not be imagined that Sapho affected any gross kind of ignorance in her Conversation: But on the contrary, she was full of witty and pleasant conceits.
Moreover, shee could speak so singularly well, both unto things serious, and things gallant and Airie; as it was admired one person should have talents so opposite. But what is most worthy of commendations in Sapho is, that in the whole world there was not a Person fuller of goodnesse then shee; nor more generous, nor more officious, nor lesse interested. Againe, her friendship was full of fidelity: her soule was so tender, and her heart so passionate, that questionlesse, it was asupream felicity to be the friend of Sapho: for she had such an ingenious spirit, and such a witty way of inventing new means to oblige those whom shee esteemed, and to: make them know her affection, that though shee seemed not to do any extraordinary thing, yet she perswaded them that she loved them deerly: shee was absolutly incapable of envie: And she would do Justice unto any merit, with so much generosity, that she took greater delight in commending others, then in being commended. Besides all this, shee was full of complacency, which without the least dram of basenesse in it, was infinitly agreeable: and if shee at any time denied her friends, she did it with so much civility and sweetnesse, that she obliged them by her deniall: and imagine, I pray, how she would oblige them if she should grant them her friendship and confidence. This Madam, is the composition of the rare Sapho, whose Brother is fraught with inclinations far different from those of his admired Sister: Not but that Charaxes hath some qualities which are good, but with all, he hath many bad ones.
He had courage indeed out it was a bestiall courage, such as makes a Dog more valiant then a Deer, and not such a generous valour as is requisit in a compleat man. But Madam, this rare woman being so accomplished as I have described her, she made so great a rumour in Mylitene, notwithstanding all her modesty, and care to conceale her knowledge that fame carried her name throughout all Greece, and that so gloriously, that untill then, never any of her sex had so great a reputation.
The greatest wits of the world were greedy of her Verses, and all Greece preserved them with care and admiration, yet she did impart them with so much difficulty, and seemed to value them so little, that it augmented her glory▪ Moreover, one could never know what times she took to make them, for she was a daily visitor of her friends, and one should hardly ever see her either read or write: and she was so good a disposer of her time, that she had some [...]r her self, and some for her friends. Moreover, she was such an absolute Mistresse of her own mind, that what care [...] soever were in her soule, they never appeared in her eyes, unlesse [Page 88] it was her mind they should. But Madam, I have not said enough yet of the most admirable Sapho; for I must furt er tell you to the end you may the better perceive her judgment, that there were some Persons whom she honoured with her Amity. And amongst the rest there were foure who had the principall shares in her diversions: The first was called Amithone: The second Erinne: the third Athys, and the fourth Cydnon my sister.
However, though [...]t be not handsome to commend such as are neere allyed unto us, wi [...]h he same sincerity and applause as others, yet to the glory of Sapho, I shall speak of them all very advantageously. For since Cydnon was her first friend, it is but just I should justifie her choice.
And to begin the description of these four, give mee leave to tell you, that Amithone, was a very big woman, of a very advantageous stature, and a goodly presence; who though not rarely faire, yet she attracted looks, and pleased infinitly: her hamour was sweet and agreeable, she spoke most elegantly, and without any learning but what she gleaned from the discourse of Sapho, and such accomplished men as talked with her, she understood things of most deep and difficult knowledge. And the great naturall parts which the gods had given her, together with the society of learned people, enabled her to speak with much judgement.
As for Erinne, it was otherwise with her, for her wit and ingenuity was all cultivated with abundance of care: so as though her naturall endowments were not so great as those of Amithone, yet Art had so suppli'd the deficiency of Nature, that her company was infinitly charming. Her fancy would not reach so high as Amithones, yet she would compose good verse; and if the modesty of Sapho may be credited, they are to be preferred before hers.
As for the faire Athys, it may well be said, that she had all the goodnesse of the other two: for she had naturally abundance of wit and did pollish it by many noble sciences, and the conversation of all the accomplished men in Mytilene. Sapho also had inspired her with that Aire of modesty which rendred her so charming, insomuch as she could not endure any should tell her, that she knew any thing more then other Ladies did: nor would she ever confesse that she knew any thing, but by the guid onely of common sence, and the usage of the World. Her Person was infinitly charming: Her stature good, her Haire flaxen [...]o light, that it may well be termed faire: The wh [...]le proportion of her face was infinitly agreeable: her mouth was a wonder: her nose well proportioned, he [...] eyes sparkling, her Aire modest, and her humour sweet.
However though these three Ladies were most admirable, yet Cydnon was more loved by Sapho, then they all three. And further then this Madam. I know not how to give you my own Sisters Picture: and yet I think it is allowable to commend her though only in justification of Saphoes choise, and therefore let me tell you, that all those who use to speak of her beauty, do report her faire and handsome, though she be little and brown, but since it is not by the handsomnesse of her Person, that she got the amity of Sapho, I will speak more of her humour and witt, then of her beauty. Be pleased to know then, that Cydnon is naturally merry, gay, sweet, obsequious and complaisant: she has a certaine spirit of expedition which makes her never find any difficulty, in doing any thing for her friends. Doubtlesse, she was knowing enough in all excellent Sciences, and versed her self in such things as most suited with the humour of Sapho. The mirth of Cydnon, is not excessive, nor at all given to Rallary, unlesse it be in a most innocent manner.
These four Persons, dwelling near Sapho, they were so often together, that they were inseperable. Not but that they visited other Ladies also, but not with such Assiduity as they did her: And the union betwixt them was so great, that none used to invite any one of them unto any feast unless they invited all.
You may imagine Madam, that these Ladies were followed and courted by all the Gallants of the time, which I assure you were no small number, especially when the Prince Tisander the son of Pittacus was in love with Sapho, Since this Prince was her first conquest, I know not whether I shall keep within my prescribed compass, and be a little longer in my story then I resolved, yet I shall not stand to make any exact description of his merit: for since he is dead, that will but serve to [Page 87] move pitty for his sad fate, only let me tell you thus much, that he was a man who merited the esteem of the Illustrious Cyrus, and his sorrows for him also after death. Tisander then, being a most rarely accomplished man, and in the prime of his youth, there was a great meeting at Mytilene about the marriage of Amithone, who married a man hugely rich, and who for certain reasons of state was much looked upon by Pittacus: who honouring the Feast with his presence, and with the Prince his Son. Tisander then spoke unto the faire Sapho the first time. But his wonder was to find her so sad, though at a Wedding, and the Bride her friend. So that taking occasion at that lovely melancholy which appeared in her eyes to begin acquaintance with her: Perhaps you may think me very bold lovely Sapho (said he unto her) for beginning my discourse with you, as if you had as great a confidence in me as I wish you had, yet I cannot choose but ask you, why you are more serious this day, then I have used to see you in the Temple, where sometimes I had the honour to meet you, for truely, having a long time desired the happinesse to speak unto you, I shall now be exceeding glad to know whether I ought to pitty you for any misfortune which hath fallen unto you, to the end I may at the first beginning of our acquaintance, render you some testimony of affection by my sensibility of whatsoever concerns you. Your language Sir is so obliging, replyed Sapho, that it deserves I should acquaint you with the cause of my sadnesse, which perhaps you will find so slight, that you will not be much troubled to be a sharer in it, for truly Sir (said she and smiled) I must acquaint you that I never was at any marriage festivall without melancholy, and my mind is so very irregular, that I cannot rejoice at the happinesse of Amithone though she be one of my dearest friends, and though I am as sensible a person as any is in the world of any joyes which happen unto those I love. Doubtlesse Madam, replyed Tysander, then you do not look upon marriage as a happinesse. The truth is Sir, (replyed Sapho) I look upon it as a slavery. Then Madam (replyed Tysander) do you look upon all men, as Tirants? I do look upon them (replied she) as men that may be so, as soon as they become husbands. This Imagination comes alwayes into my mind when I am at any marriage, and I am sure, that a melancholy will cease upon me, by reason of that little interest which I have in the happiness of that person who is to be marryed. I am extreamly afraid Madam, replyed Tyfander that this your hatred of marriage in particular, should proceed from your hatred of all men in generall, and yet, beleeve me, you would be very unjust, if you should advance your own sex so much above ours. The truth is (continued he) if there were many such women as your self, you had some reason for it, nay if there were only two or three such in the whole world, I should consent unto it. But lovely Sapho (pursued he) since you are the only one in the whole world, who hath found out the Art, to unite all the virtue and all the good qualities of both sexes, in one single person: I beseech you content your self to be esteemed or envyed by all weomen, and so to be adored by all men without hating them in generall.
Since I cannot be unjust (replyed she) I know very well, that I ought not to assume unto my self any share in those Praises which you give me, and I know that there are many men so excellently accomplished, as they deserve all my esteem and may obtain some share in my friendship: But as soon as ever I look upon them as Husbands, then I do look upon them as Masters, Masters so apt to become Tyrants, as I cannot choose but at that time to hate them, and to thank the Gods, that they have not given me any great inclination unto that fatal thing, which they call marriage. But, Madam (replyed Tisander) when some happy and rarely accomplished man should move your heart, perhaps then you will change your mind. I cannot tell, Sir (replyed she) whether I shall change my mind or no; but I am sure, that I had rather even lose my wits then ever lose my liberty; and I am fully resolved never to make my Slave my Tyrant. I am so far from conceiving (replyed Tisander) that there can be any one in the world who dares be so bold as to cease obaying you, that I am confident none dare command you. For how can it be imagined that a most admirable Lady who is knowing in all things; Nay, I beseech you. Sir (sayd Sapho and modestly interrupted him) do not speak thus, for I know so very little, that I know not whether I have any reason for what I say. As soon as [Page 90] she had sayd so, one calling away Tisander about some business, he was forced to leave Sapho, but he left his heart with that fair One, nor was this love long concealed; for Tisander being young, and of a quality which attracted many eyes upon him, every one did presently perceive his love unto Sapho, for he went unto her the next day after the marriage of Aminothe and was obsequious and Courtly to her, as there was no doubt but that he was in love with that most admirable Lady. At that time all manner of Pleasures were in their highest Lustre at Mytilene, and every day had its fresh diversions.
In the mean time, Tisanders Fate being not to get the love of Sapho, and her Fancy could not comply that way, she only esteemed him; and acknowledged the favour of his affection, but could not follow the councels of her brother who advised her to sacrifice her liberty unto Fortune by answering the love of that Prince. But Sapho naturally hating Marriage, and not affecting Tisander, she would by no means consent unto it, though she were sure she might marry him with the consent of Pittacus. However, since he was still in hopes to win her affection, He courted her with a thousand Entertainments, and filled the Town full of Diversions, insomuch as the little Court was so full of Gallantry as none could be more. Indeed the admirable Sapho had inspired such a spirit of politenes into all that conversed with her, which also did communicate it self unto those who never saw her, as it was a wonder that it should not spread it self through all the Town of Mytilene, and also throughout all the Isle of Lesbos, but it did not; for Envy, Ignorance, and Malignity kept almost half the Town from being benefited by the Conversation of Sapho and her friends. But to say truly she was no looser by not seeing these kind of people, unto whom the Grandure of her spirit and wit was a terrour. Few strangers ever came to Lesbos, who went not immediatly unto the admired Sapho, and who went not out charmed with her discourse? And certainly they had reason, for it was impossible for any to talk two hours with her without a high esteem of her, and without a great inclination to love her. Also there was a knot of five or six of us men who were inseparable, and who alwaies waited upon Tisander when he went unto Sapho, and who somtimes went unto her without him, when her severity made him so melancholy, that he would not go.
In the mean time, the ignorant and envious Caball which was opposite unto ours, did talk of us in such pleasant manner, as I cannot think upon it without a little wonder: For they sayd, we never talked of any thing at Saphos but Poetry Philosophy, and mysterious questions, and I think they sayd, that we taught Magick there also. The truth is, these professed Enemies unto all Wit, Sence, Reason, and Virtue are a most dangerous sort of People; for I found that the most rationall amongst all those who shunned Sapho and her friends were a sort of young fine, sturdy, and merry Fellows who made it their brag, that they were no Schollars, and whose ignorant vanity made them so bold as to cen [...]ure and judge of what they knew not, and who were perswaded that men of parts and wit did nothing but talk of things which they understood not: Thus did they talk of these Persons whom they shunned with much care, and made such extravagant Tales of them, as were most ridiculous unto such as were in their Senses. But besides this generation of people who are capable only of a Vapory and disordered kind of Jollity, there was also a sort of women which I rank together with them who shun the company of Sapho and her friends and who are also full of their own frothy Rallary: Truth is, they are a sort of women who think it their duty to know nothing unless that they are fair, and how to dress themselves; Women I say, who never talk of any thing but Fashions, whose Gallantry consists in eating the Collations which their Gallants bestow upon them, and whose discourse is nothing but most egregious folly.
There was also another generation of Women, who thinking that exact Virtue requires a Lady should know no more than how to be wife unto her Husband, Mother unto her Children, and Mistress of her Family, they think Sapho, and her friends spend too much time in Conversation, and that they ought not to discourse so much upon things which are not of absolute necessity.
There are also some of these men who look upon their wives as the chief Servant in the house, who forbid their Children to read any books but Prayer-books, and [Page 91] who will not allow them upon any terms to sing one of Sapho's songs.
Again, there was some both men and women who shunned us, and who, without Injustice cannot be counted amongst the dull herd of beastly people, since they are persons of quality. And indeed, there were some men of ingenious parts, being prepossessed with a false imagination, who beleived our way of living was such, as these ignorant men reported; and who not endeavouring to un-deceive themselves, rested in their errour. Truth is, there was one thing which did much contribute unto their implicite beleife: For Madam, be pleased to know, that there was a woman in Mytilene, who having seen Sapho when she was very young, she took up a fancy to imitate her, and she thought that she did imitate her so well, that changing her lodging, she pretended to be the Sapho of her quarter.
But the truth was, shee imitated so scurvily, that never were two persons more n nlike. You may be pleased to remember Madam, how I told you, that Sapho, though shee was admirably knowing in all things, yet shee would not make a shew of it, and that her discourse was naturall, easie, free, and gallant. But alas, it was quite contrary with this Lady, whose name was Damophile, for all her pretended imitation of Sapho.
But to make a description of her, and to let you see the difference between these two persons, be pleased to know, that Damophile taking a toy in her head to imitate Sapho, she did not attempt to imitate her in every particular, but only in being as knowing as she was, & thinking she had found out a most mysterious way of getting more reputation than she had, she did all that the other did not. First, She had alwayes about her, five or six severall masters, the least learned of all which, I think did read Astrology unto her, she was continually writing Letters unto such men as made profession of profound learning, and knowledge: She scorned to cast an eye upon an illiterate person; fifteen or twenty books were alwaies upon her Table, and when any came into her chamber, one of them was alwaies in her hand, and I am most certain she had many more books in her closet than ever she looked into, and she read more than ever Sapho had. Moreover, Damophile was all fustian and bigg words, which she pronounced with a grave and imperious tone, though she spoke but of a trifle, whereas Sapho on the contrary, lapped up the most sublime learning in the lowest language.
Moreover, Damophile not thinking that knowledge and learning was compatible with Oconimick affairs, she never medled with any family affairs, but Sapho she looked into every thing, even of the meanest consequence: Again, Damophile did not only speak in the stile of books, but shee would be alwaies talking of books themselves, and cited Authors in her common talk, as fast as if she were a professor in some famous University. But the rarest passage of all was, that she was suspected to have promised a very favourable ear unto an ill favoured fellow, who had expressed some kind of tender affection to her, upon condition, that he would compose a copy of verses, and let her pass for the Author of them, to the end she might resemble Sapho, she sought all manner of opportunities of publishing what she knew, and even tyred people with a relation of her learning, so as I assure you, that as there is nothing more taking and charming than a woman whose mind is furnished with excellent knowledge when she knows how to use it; so there is nothing so ridiculous nor troublesome, than a woman that is foolishly learned.
Damophile, being then such a one as I have described, she was a cause why those people who shunned Sapho and her friends, did imagin that our conversation was like unto that Damophile, who was said to imitate Sapho, so as a thousand odd reports were divulged concerning us, at which we laughed when we heard of them, thinking our selves very happy, that the opinion which these men had of our society, did keep them from troubling us by their presence. As for Tysander, since he was in love, he had much ado to endure these foolish reports; but punished two or three of these wicked scoffers at wit, and handled them sharply that they were forced to quit the Court.
But Madam, To insist no longer upon the love of that Prince, I will only tell you, that after he had tryed alwaies possible to winn the heart of Sapho, the Prince Thrasibulus his friend came unto Mytilene, after he had lost his Dominions & all his fleet, having nothing left in the world but only two ships. Yet that Prince [Page 92] having a great and resolute soul, after he had been a while at Mytilene, was very desirous to see the admirable Sapho, whom he esteemed very highly.
But Madam, Since Tysanders love is not the principall subject of Sapho [...]s history. I will not insist any longer upon it; but to tell you, that she could not love him, and that he was in such a desperate condition, that he resolved to imbarque with the Prince Thrasibulus when he went from Lesbos, and try if absence could cure him, but he did not depart before he bade adieu unto the admirable Sapho.
Since my sister did know all her secrets, and since she imparted all unto me after his departure from Lesbos, I understood all the passages between them, and how this ad [...]eu was taken with the finest discourse that ever was. For Sapho carried herself so ingenuously, that she perswaded Lysander she was nothing to blame in not answering his affection, and that she had taken almost as much paines in forcing her heart to affect him, as he had to winn her affection: Insomuch as he parted from Sapho without complaining against her, though he parted from her the most sad soule that ever breath'd.
When he was gone from Mytelene, he left a man behind him whose name was Alces, a man of a subtle wit, who also had a notable faculty in Verse, with orders to speak of him as oft as he could unto the most admirable Sapho, and in his absence to give him an exact accompt of all passages, to the end he might return if occasions required. To say truth, he could never have chosen a man more assidiously diligent, then he was with the faire Sapho: For he being in love with the charming Athys who was continually with her, it was an easie matter for him to be a faithfull spie unto Tisander; and the fitter for that purpose, because Alces had a nimble and witty boy, and one that was a notable prier into privacies.
In the mean time, Sapho only esteeming Tisander, his absence was no hinderance unto her Diversions, and our society was within a few dayes as jocund as ever it was, and more, for the discontents of Tisander did sometimes make it melancholy. Then were we a knot of five or sixe of us, who had nothing else to do, but to see Sapho every day: Not but that we made many other visits; but to tell you truly they were short ones, and we always returned betimes, to the end we might meet at Saphoes, where Amithone, Erinne, Athys, and Cydnon alwayes were. When the weather was faire, we went to take the Aire, either upon the Sea, or by the Sea side: And when the weather would not permit us, wee stayed at the house of the admirable Sapho, which was as pleasant a seate as was in the world, for her Chamber, her outer Chamber, and her Closet were upon one floore, and looked towards the Sea.
However, to tell you the very truth, few men ever looked upon Sapho, but they loved her, or at least esteemed her above the degree of a friend: And though Alces was in Love with the faire Athys, yet I hav [...]ard him confesse, that the esteem he had of Sapho was of a higher nature then that he had of me, though he loved me exceeding well: but certainly there is a kinde of subtle and penetrating fire in the eyes of Sapho, which at least heates, if not burnes all hearts.
Moreover, it must not be imagined that our society was full of Ceremony, for it was all naturall and full of freedome: and if there was any constraint, it was in that we had a continuall desire to commend Sapho, but durst not, because it was offensive to her. Sometimes we should mutinie against her, because she would neither give us, nor shew us any of her verses, but were put to a thousand devices before we could obtaine them.
For my particular, I had the advantage of all the rest; for since she trusted my sister, I saw the excellent works of the admirable Sapho by her meanes: And I did so admire the rarities which she shewed me, and the freenesse of her illustrious friend from all manner of vanity, as I thought it a thing impossible to over-esteem the most admirable Sapho. For Cydnon shewed me Elogies, Songs, Epigrams, and a thousand other peeces of rare wit, so as I could nor choose but wonder that a womans capacity could possibly reach the height of them; for her verse was so true, her expressions so even, her fancy so noble, and passions so tender, as to think them incomparable was the least I could do. However, this excellent woman whose knowledge was superlative in all things, was more modest than those [Page 93] who knew nothing: And an accident one day chanced which did plainly evidence the truth of this unto all those who were together in a place where Sapho and Damophile met.
But Madam, the better to acquaint you with the accident, I must tell you, that there was in Mitilene a most rare confort of Musique which the whole Town used to goe and heare at a Lady of qualities house, whether Sapho and all her company went, with the rest of the Ladies: It was an Assembly where the gates were open to all, where acquaintance was not requisite, and where one might see a hundred persons whom they never saw before, nor perhaps ever should see again, and where all sorts of company resorted: Chance had so contrived it, that Sapho sate next Damophile, so that untill the Musique began, she was constrained to hold discourse with her, and with those about her. Damophile never being without two or three half witted persons about her, such as make themselves more able then really they are, Sapho was most terribly perplexed, for she stood in fear of none more then that sort of people: and certainly it was not without reason that she feared them that day: For she was no sooner set, but one of Damophiles friends put a Grammaticall question unto her. Unto which Sapho negligently answered; and turning her head the other way, said, that since she never learned to speak but only by custome, she could not give him any answer.
As soon as she had said so, Damophile told her in a low voyce with intolerable impudence, that he would consult with her upon a doubt concerning a verse in Hesiode, which she did not well understand. I assure you (replyed Sapho very modestly and smiled) you would do much better to consult with some body else; for I never use to consult with any but my Mirrour to know what worst becomes me, and therefore I am far unfit to consult upon difficult questions. As soon as she had said so, one came from the other other end of the Room very hastly, and asked whether it was she who made the songs which were going to be sung▪ I assure you (said she, and blusht for anger) that I have done nothing this day but weary my selfe with vexing; for I am so impatient till the Musique begin, that I never wished for any thing in my life more earnestly.
For my part Madam (said one of Damophiles friends) I had much rather heare one of your ingenuous Epigrams than all the Musique: As Sapho was ready to answer unto this, another came with a paper in his hand, and d [...]si [...]ed her she would be pleased to read that [...]logie, and give her opinion of it: So as since shee had much rather read the verses of another, then to heare others talk of hers in such an odd manner, she began to read them to her selfe, or at least seemed to do so; for she was so vexed at her place, as that she could not judg of verses though she had attempted it. But that which caused the greatest distraction, was to heare both men and women behind her, talking of her wit, of her verses, and of her learning, shewing her unto others, and every one shooting a fools bolt according to their fancies: One said she did not look like a learned person, others said that she knew more then she would speak: and one man amongst the rest said, that he would not have his Wife so wise as she was: and a woman wished that she had but ha [...]f her knowledg, so as every one according to their inclinations commended her, or discommended her, whilst she seemed to be intent upon the paper of verses.
In the mean while, Damophile talked with two or three of her half-witted Companions and spake such thundring words, which signified nothing, that they being at last desirous to heare two such opposite persons as Sapho and Damophile talk together, I was the first who desired her whether she would or no to give back the Elogie unto him who gave it unto her, purposely to force her unto this Conference. And indeed Sapho being glad to see me so neer her, because she hoped then to [...]a [...]k unto none but me, she restored the Elogie unto him who made it, unto whom she said that she had not wit enough to judg, and therefore durst not commend him.
After which, turning her selfe towards me; well Democedes (said she unto me in a low voyce) Though I was very unhappy in sitting so neer Damophile and her friends, yet I am very glad you came to my reliefe: Nay, nay Madam (said I unto her and laughed) I came not hither to that end; for in my opinion it concerns your honour to talk, to the end the wo [...]ld may know that you use not to talk like [Page 94] unto Damophile: And indeed, after this I intruded into the company of Damophile and those she talked unto; addressing my speech alwayes unto Sapho, as angry as she was.
In the mean time, there was one man amongst those that were with Damophile, who indeed spoke very well, and began to talke of harmony, and of the nature of Love very eloquently. But Madam it was admirable to see the difference between Sapho and Damophile, for the last of these never left interrupting him who spoke, and making impertinent objections, which she understood not her selfe, nor could any else make any sense of them. As for Sapho, shee never spake but when a question did absolutely require an answer from her: And though she alwayes said she understood not the thing in discourse, yet she spoke as one who understood better than some that would undertake to teach: And for all her modesty and vexation, and maugre the simplicity of her expressions, it was apparant she understood all things, and that Damophile understood nothing. The last of these, in speaking much, said little; and the other in speaking almost nothing, yet spoke enough to make her selfe admired. At last the Musique begun; and as soon as it was ended, Sapho did rise up in all hast; and pretending some earnest business, she removed from Damophile, who no [...] being willing to let her goe before she had given her some other fresh disgust, she told her, that doubtlesse her businesse was to finish a Song which was yet in her Chamber unperfected: Sapho understood very well what Damophile said, but she would not trouble her selfe so far as to answer. On the contrary, she took me by the hand, and went on the other side of the room where Amithone, Erinne, and Cydnon were placed.
They were no sooner met, but she pressed them very earnestly to be gone, and indeed forced them to go sooner than otherwise they would: I pray Madam (said Cydnon, seeing her blush and all in disorder) what accident hath hapned which make [...] you desire to be gone so hastily? When wee are all in my Chamber (said she) I will tell you; for I must have a little time to recollect my selfe, after my adventure: however (said Amithone unto me) I pray tell us what hath hapned unto Sapho, for you were with her? For my part (said Athyes, and gave me no time to answer) I cannot devise what it should be: Perhaps replyed Erinne, that Democide doth know no more then you do [...] Pardon me, replyed I, for I do know, but I will not know, unlesse the faire Sapho be pleased to give me leave to impart it. I would not only have Amithone, Erinne, and Cydnon know it (replyed she) but I would have all the world also know (if it were possible) how I do hate Damophile and all her friends, and how sorry I am to finde so many fools in the world.
Sapho expressed her selfe in such a pretty chife, that she made me laugh: and as we were thus discoursing, Alces (who I told you was a man who passed for a good witt in Mytelene, and who was so) came unto us with another man of good note named Nicanor: And they came to Sapho's gate, where also we met a Lady called Philire who entred also. As soon as wee were entred into the Chamber, and set, all the Ladies asked me what the matter was: when Sapho heard this question asked me, she turned towards them: No no (said she, it is not Democedes which can tell you what I vex at: For there is none who knows it but my selfe: I beseech you tell us then, said Nicanor, who was a well-accomplished man, and who had none of those faul [...]s which most young men of his quality use to have. The thing you aske (replyed Sapho) is not so easie to be told as you imagine: But since I must tell you, it is that I am so weary of being thought a wit, and of passing for a Schollar, as I begin to make it my chief felicity neither to read, nor write, nor speak; and if it were a thing possible to forget them, I protest I would begin this very hour to be dumb, and would forget to read and write, and speak as long as I lived: So weary am I of the foolishnesse in people, and of the persecution which inseparately is upon such as have a reputation of more w [...]t or knowledge, then how to curle their haire, and make choise of their Ribbands.
Sapho spoke this in such a lovely fret, and with such a sprightly aire, that her handsome anger did cause more love, more liking, and more amity in the soules of all her Auditors But I beseech you (said Cydnon) tell us a little more precisely what's the cause of all this? How is it possible (replyed she) that you should see [Page 95] me sit so long, so neer Damophile and her pack of quarter witted persons, and not pitty me, and think that I spent my time very ill? had you been of the same side where I was (replyed Phylere, and laughed) you would not have been troubled with any over wise Ladies: I assure you (replyed she) I know not where I should be; for I saw about you four or five women, who making an open profession of hating every one that has any wit, and who affect such dull gross kind of ignorance, as hath vexed and wearied me, but had you been, where I was (said Nicanor) you had found better entertainment, and more complacency; for there were none but such men about me as would have highly commended you, happily they might (replied shee) but perhaps not after my mode; for Nicanor, most men of your quality do so little know how to speak unto such a one as I am, that they do [...]anger me when they think to oblige me: And except these who are present with me, I know very few who have spoken any thing which hath pleased me, and yet there are some here also who have somtimes vexed me; at least I have reason to complain that they will not acquaint every one, how I desire to be treated. As for Alces (added she) I am sure he knows my mind better than all the rest of the company. Tis true, (said he and laughed) that this profession of wit is very troublesome.
How can it be troublesome (replyed) Phylire?) and what hurt can that reputation which Sapho hath over all the world, do unto her? has she not great reason to rejoice, that all the wits of Athens, Corinth, Lacede [...]on, Thebes, Argos, Delphos, and in all Greece, should talk of her with admiration? As for such men as know me not (replyed Sapho) I am contented they may talk as they please; but I am very ill satisfied with most of those who daily see me, and if you please, I will make all my complaints unto you, to the end Nicanor may instruct the Court how they ought to behave themselves towards wits, and to the end Phylixe may acquaint the Ladies of her neighbour-hood how to live withthose of ours, and also to the end that Amithone, Erinne, Athys, and Cydnon may not accuse me of being fantasticall in my complaints.
Therefore to speak unto the point in generall, I must tell you once more, that there is nothing more troublesome than to have a good wit, and to be treated accordingly; if one have any birth, and nobleness of heart: For this is an infallible Maxime, that when one gets an applause from the multitudes by the flashes of that wit, or any reputation above another by writing verses or prose, they do lose half of their nobleness, and are not like any of their family or kin if they meddle with writing any books, and indeed they will be treated after another manner, than those are, who never meddle with any writing; and it will be said, that such were destined only to please others and are obliged by a Law to be still writing peice after peice; and if they leave writing, they will be no longer regarded: If they be rich, it will hardly be beleived, and if they be not, it is the worst of fortune, a poor man who is not guilty of any wit, is better used, than if he were. Yet I see (replyed Nycanor) that all the Court doth very much cherish those who are addicted to writing.
I do assure you (replyed Sapho) that they are cherished after a very strange manner, for almost all young gallants use to treat those, who are addicted to writing, as they use to treat their Taylors and shoomakers. Indeed they think that they have rendred all that is due to their merit when they have cursularly commended them: For my part; they cannot do me a greater displeasure, than to talk impertinently of those verses which I writ only to please my self. I cannot endure that one should come unto me, and desire me to make an Elogy for him, another a song, and a third come and ask me whither such an Epigram was mine; I cannot endure that they should not speak unto me, as they do unto others, since I desire to be as others are, and cannot be distinguished after so odd a manner: They do not speak unto me as they use unto others if they would make an excuse for not seeing me, they tell me it was because they were afraid to interrupt my study, if at any time they accuse me of being too reserved, they tell me that I am never well but when I am by my self, if I say my head akes, they tell me it is the disease of all good wits: Nay my Physitian when I complain of any little pain, he must be telling me also that the same temper which causeth my good wit, causeth my disease. The truth is, Verses, Wit, [Page 96] and Knowledge, are such troubles unto me, that I begin to look upon Ignorance, and stupidity as the only happinesse.
The truth is, replyed Alces, the fair Sapho hath great reason for her complaints: and were it not for the satisfaction which her writing does give unto her self, she had never used her pen, though never so learnedly, for my part I have seen many Courts in the world and I have observed most horrible Injustice done unto all writers, Every Grandee desires to be commended but they receive the incense which is offered, unto them as a tribute due, without any regard unto the hand which offered: For my particular I once presented a poem unto a Prince, who took it and liked it, but never did so much as ask to see me; yet to tell you truly, Considering how he used me, I took heart and loved the Author, better than I did the Prince: And my mind better satisfied in having a heart more genuine than his, then if fortune had set me as much above him as he was above me. Oh! my dear Alces (replyed Sapho) how infinitely do you joy me? for nothing gives me greater satisfaction than that I am able to tell my self, my soul is more noble than those, whom giddy fortune has set above me. But for all this I cannot choose but oftentimes be very sensible of those disgusts which my reputation of wit doth cause unto me, for I observe both men and women when they talk unto me are much perplexed because they have a fancy, that they must not speak unto me as they do unto others, and they are so perswaded, that I constrain my self in speaking unto them, that they constrain themselves also to go beyond their last, insomuch as I wish that I could Ʋn-Sapho my self; and if my heart could be seen, it would manifest, that nothing could more vex me than to take me for a witty and understanding woman. And therefore I conjure all the company, to ease me of this persecution, by publishing to all the world, that I am not as I am taken to be, but that it is Alces who composed those verses which pass under my name, and that I have nothing in me which is worthy of esteem; to the end all sorts may let me alone in quietness, without either seeking for me, or shunning me: For I must confess, I would neither be courted, or shunned as a woman of wit.
As soon as she had said so, much company▪ came in, who caused the discourse to change,; but as for Sapho, she spoke very little all that day (as my sister told me) for I went out as the company encreased, because I heard of the arrivall of two of my old friends, who had been long abroad in Travels. But, Madam, since one of them whose name is Phaon, hath a great share in the History which I am relating, It is requisite I speak of him a little more particularly then of the other who was called Thimistogenes, yet I must acquaint you that they were both of them Lesbians, that were practised in one exercise together, and that during ou [...] first years I did equally love them, & yet at their return me-thought I had lost the one, though I saw them both: And to explain this Riddle, be pleased to know that when Phaon and Thimistogenes departed I loved the last of these a little better then the first, because indeed he was then more amiable both in his humour and in his Person: But at their return I found a very great alteration, for the one was grown very ill-favoured, and the other much more handsom; the wit of Thimistogenes was not at all improved, but Phaon was so mended, that I assure you he much excelled him, and few men could be found more amiable then he: As for his Person, doubtless it was incomparable, for he was extraordinary fair, but such a fairness as does not resemble the beauty of Ladies, though he had all the good deportments of his own Sex, and all the beauty of others, his stature was tall and noble though not of the highest pitch, his hair very brown, his eyes black and lovely, his cheeks plump, his Teeth white, his Nose even proportioned, and his Aire haughty; moreover for a man, he had most fair hands, a sprightly look, a promising Physiognomy, and I know not what kind of passionatness in his aspect without any affection which spoke him very apt to become a most compleat Gallant. Indeed, Madam, Phaon is so fair and every way so handsome, that the people of Lesbos invented the oddest Fable of him in the world: Fo he being the Son of a man in great reputation at Mytilene who had commanded Navies in severall Was: The dull people say, that when he was very young and playing in a little Boat neer one of his Fathers [Page 97] Ships Venus came to him, and desired him to carry a message for her in that Boat unto a certain [...]sl [...]d: And in recompence of his Service she made him so fair as he was. Thus without any other ground for this Fable (unless because Phaon contrary to custom of men was not so fair when he was a Child as since he became a man) all the people of Lesbos do beleive this Fable, as really as if it were a very truth. But, Madam as Phaon is amiable in his Person, so is he also in his humour and spirit, for he is very civill sweet and affable, and without too much mirth, or too much melancholy, he is all that is imaginable to please: besides this, his Aire is naturall easie and agreeable, he speaks well, and home to the purpose: moreover he had a naturall inclination of Gallantry, and there was such a sutableness between his Person, his Humour, and his W [...]t, as one would say, they were made for one another. As for Thimistogenes he did not at all resemble him, not that he was very ill favoured, but because he did not please, and because his Aire was forced and constrained: Nor was it that he is without any wit at all, but because that wit he has is wrong biassed, and he was very seldom in the right, but is so accustomed to be in the wrong, that one may be almost assured to choose well if they only take that which he chooseth not; And he is very much addicted to love all excellencies, and to Court accomplished men, though it is beyond his reach to know them.
These two men whom I have described had long travelled together without any great affection, or without much Society together: for as soon as they came into any Town their inclinations parted them, and that which pleased the one did never please the other. Thus they wree together upon the high-waies, but never in any other place; According to this their custom, as soon as they arrived at Mytilene, they severed, so as I also sought them severally, but could not find them; for as I sought them they were seeing others, insomuch that it was the next morning before I saw them: But as soon as I found the difference between Thimistogenes and Phaon, I changed also as they had done, for I loved Phaon better then I did Thimistogenes: However, since I was not the first whom they had met with in Mytilene I found them already informed of the great beauty in Sapho, yet not by men who knew how to commend her according to her Merit: For they had only told them that she was a great Wit, and understanding Person, and one that had a most admirable faculty in composing Verses. But the wonder was, that though the same Character was given unto them both, yet it produced severall effects, for Thimistogenes out of the curiosity to see all Excellences, was extreamly impatient of seeing Sapho. And Phaon on the contrary who had seen Damophile the night before as she came from the Musick house had no desire at all to be acquainted with Sapho, and indeed he was so far from desiring it, when I spake unto him and offered to carry him thither, that he refused the Visite, in lieu of desiring it.
But Thimistogenes was so eager, that he was extreamly importunate with me to carry him unto Sapho, though I would not, because I found him unworthy of her acquaintance: And I was as importunate with Phaon to see her, though he would not, out of a conceipt he had that it was a thing almost impossible for a woman to be learned and not ridiculous, or at least not troublesome: Also the little experience with Phaon had in matters of Love, had suffered an error to grow in his mind (which was quickly rooted out,) That it was better to be in love with a faire foole than a woman of a great wit: So as one day when I had pressed him to goe and see Sapho, and he obstinatly had refused, I was very angry with him for not giving credit unto what I told him; For (said I unto him) what reason can you give me, why you will not see Sapho? First, (said he unto me) they say that Damophile is a Coop [...]e of Sapho. Secondly, I profess, that if she be, it is impossible the Original should ever please me, for I have found Damophile such a ridiculous piece of foll [...], that I would run from Country to Country rather than meet with her whom she resembles. Oh most unjust friend, (said I unto him) did you but know what wrong you have done unto the most admirable Sapho you would abhor your injustice, and repent of the injury done unto me in accusing me of ignorance in true merit: I accuse you not (said he unto me) but friend you know every one has a severall gust, and a severall fancy: and for my part I desire only the sight of such Ladies as will divert me, and not teach me, for I am most terribly afraid of such as swell themselves into bigg words, for small matters; such as are alwayes [Page 98] upon the top of Parnassus, and never talk unto men, but in the language of gods: And if you will needs have me discover the secret of my soule unto you, I must confess, that in Sicily I was in love with a faire foole; and I will not run the hazard of being in love with a faire wit, who perhaps will make me despaire. Therefore I conjure you to trouble me no more; For if Sapho be such a one as I do imagine her, she will make me most horribly hate her: And if she be such a one as you say she is, perhaps I shall love her too well to keep my self in quietnesse. But is it possible (said I unto him) that you could fall in love with a foole; The truth is (replyed he and laughed) I was not in love with a foole but I must confesse, that there was such a faire foole whom I did not hate.
I perceive then (said I unto him) that one may love beauty wheresoever it is, though in a fair woman without any wit, but I cannot imagine one should love her person be she never so faire: Also I perceive you do not know all the delicate delights of rough passion, since you never loved any but a faire foole: I know not whether I knew all the delights, replyed Phaon) but I am sure that I know all the torments: Alas my deare friend, (said I unto him) you are but a Novice in love, for none are ever happy in it, unlesse they be first miserable. Those doe not deserve the sweet which will not tast the bitter; a thing must be desired with inquietude before it can be enjoyed with delight: and before one can know all the sweets of love he must love a woman that hath wit. For my part (continued I) I love a faire Picture which cannot talk foolishly, better then a faire woman, who tattles and committs a thousand impertinencies. As we were thus talking, Themistogenes came in, whose mind being opposite unto Phaons, he entreated me to carry him unto Sapho, telling me he had a very earnest desire to se her: and adding, that in all likely-hood he should fall in love with her, if he found her such a beauty as he imagined. If so sir (said I purposely to prevent him) I must not carry you thither, for you would be extreamly miserable if you should become a lover of a person, who has so many others. Thus I not being able to perswade Phaon, and Themistogenes not being able to perswade me, we parted, but I wondred when after dinner being at Saphoes, shee should tell me that Nicanor and Phylire who had seen Phaon, did give him such a noble Character, as though it was not her use to affect fresh acquaintance yet she could not choose but desire his. The very truth is Madam, (replyed I) Phaon is a person, of very extraordinary merit, since he is your intimate friend (replyed she) I shall hope he will come and visit Cydnon, and so happily I shall see him at her Chamber.
I believe Madam, (replyed I) that he would see you at your own house before any other place, did he not stand in feare of you: Alas Democedes (said shee unto me) why should any friend of yours stand in feare of me; but to be plaine with you, I shall think you have infused a bad opinion of me into him, if he do not come and see me, you may imagine Madam how this expression of Saphoes perplexed me, knowing the mind of Phaon as I did; but I engaged my self to bring him unto Sapho, and accordingly I went very seriously unto Phaon, and desired him to make this visite for my sake, if not for Saphos; but I had much ado to perswade him, yet being affraid to fall out with me, he yeilded: but told me withall, that I must take this Complacency as a great argument of his friend-ship, and afterwards promised me to go the next day with me unto Sapho: But that which most troubled me was, that I durst not carry him unless I carry Themistogenes also, because he would be very angry with me if I had not; so that to carry a very pleasing man unto her, I was constrained to carry a very ill Companion also. I advertised Sapho of this intended visite, and she acquainted all her dear friends with it, so that Amithone, Erinne, Athys, and Cydon were all with her, when Phaon, Themistogenes and I came thither, Sapho being one of the most pleasing Persons in the world at the first sight, and the most obliging when she pleased; she received us extreamly kindly, and in such a gallant manner, that I saw very well Phaon was much surprised, and that he did not expect to find her Aire so free, so amiable, and so naturall.
As for Themistogenes, I observed that he was astonished as well as Phaon, but it was in a different manner, yet being both of them prepossessed with an opinion of Saphos knowledge, and conceiving they ought to speak in an Elevated stile, they begun their discourse in a grave, serious, and very solemn Tone. And though [Page 99] I told Phaon there needed no such setting off himself in Print, yet he did not beleive me; so that thinking he ought to commend her as a Person extraordinary, and in the highest Phrases, he began his Encomium with a very eloquent Exordium. But Sapho stopping his Oration, and turning towards me, I professe Democides (said she) I have great reason to complaine against you: Against me Madam (replied I with astonishment) Yes (replied she) against you; for since Phaon does not know me, it were injustice to complain against him: and therefore I do positively accuse you for all these applauds which he bestows upon me; for had you acquainted him that I do not affect any Commendations, I believe him to be a more accomplished man then to turn his Complacency into, such flatteries as cannot chuse but displease me. I assure you Madam, replyed I, I advised him not to offend the modesty of your humour: Then 'tis apparent hee does not know me (replyed Sapho) But Phaon (continued she and turned towards him) since I do not love to be beholding unto Fame, I shall take it as a very singular favour if you would judg of mee onely by your own knowledg: Let time and experience give you the knowledg of me: For it would be very unjust in you to judge of me upon the reports of others. Madam (replyed Phaon, and smiled) I do admire your Modesty, and that's all I dare say; for to acknowledg that you merit more commendations then Fame doth give you, is to tell you that you merit more then ever any did. Can fame give you better report (added Themistogenes, thinking to hit the naile upon the head) then that a Lady can make better verses then ever Homer did? and that she is wiser then all the seven Sages of Greece? However Sir (said Sapho) I cannot endure that any should tell me of any such things; and the greatest injury my friends can do me, is to think that I love to be commended: For since I know that I am not wise, I cannot endure to be told that I am: and though I were so, yet surely I should hate flattery: I cannot deny but that I have made some foolish verses; but Poetry being only an effect of a natural inclination, as musique is, I ought to be no more commended for making verses, then for singing.
After this, Sapho turning the discourse upon some other subject very ingeniously, she was extream carefull to talk of nothing that might smell of too much wisdome: but on the contrary, she passed away all the afternoon in a pleasant Rallary with her friends, twitting them with a thousand petty passages concerning their Caballa, which yet were so intelligible, that Phaon and Themistogenes did take as much delight in them as those did who were acquainted with the passages.
Afterwards Alces and Nicanor coming in, Sapho began to chide the first of them for a custome which he had, and which he always used when occasion presented it selfe. For Madam, be pleased to know, that Alces had such a fancy of a faire woman, that he could not endure those who were not so, and he would alwayes be sure to change place whensoever Chance had set him neere any ill-favoured person: So it hapned, when he was in Sapho's Chamber, that a Woman came in, who indeed was very ugly; he according to his humour went out, and went so abruptly, that the woman plainly saw, that he vvent out purposely to shun her. Sapho being desirous to turn discourse another vvay, began after a gallant manner, to condemn his nicenesse, and in his person to blame most young Gallants of the time vvhose Custome was to do the like: Truly Madam (said Alces unto her) I had not gone out at that time from your Chamber, but because I desired to go unto the faire Athys, and I do protest not upon any other reason: I pray Alces, replyed Athys, make not your visit unto me your excuse, for you came not to me that day: Then I went unto Amithones (added he) no replyed that faire one, for both Erinne, Cydnon, and my selfe did see you out of the window of my Chamber walking about two hours with a friend of yours, who is one of the ugliest men that ever any eye beheld, and who questionlesse is more ugly then the Lady who you shunned. I professe it is very strange (replyed Sapho) you should have such irregular thoughts: and I would gladly know why you should more tolerate an ugly man than an ugly Woman: and why you should shun an ugly Woman as much as you would the Plague: This is an injury unto our Sexe, and as if Women were made for no other use then Colours are, to please the eye. This Alces, is most unjust; for if you love that only which is faire, and hate that which is foul, why have you not faire friends, as well as faire Mistresses? [Page 100] and why are you not as carefull to shun ugly Men as ugly Women? Women as well as Men that are ill favoured, may have a thousand charms of wit, and a thousand beauties of soule, and therefore why more hated? Yet I see most young Gallants are guilty of this injustice: yes there are some men who are extreamly ugly themselves, yet cannot endure a Woman so: They desire the fairest eyes should look favourably upon them, and yet they will look upon none but faire Women vvith the ugliest eyes under the Sun. I knovv one vvho looks upon himselfe in a glasse, as if he vvere the handsomest of all men living: and though he can look upon his ovvn deformities vvith delight, yet he cannot with any patience endure the deformities of others: You expresse your thoughts Madam so excellently, replyed Phaon, that I believe Alces with all his wit will have much ado to answer you. I assure you (replyed Alces) that I had rather acknowledg a fault in me, then go about to justifie my selfe, since I cannot do it, unless I should speak many things against Ladies in generall. You express your selfe with so much malignity (replyed Amithone) that you deserve (as a punishment for shunning such women as are not faire) all faire ones should avoid meeting with you.
Provided one faire one will not fly me (replyed he, looking upon Athys) I should not much grieve if all the rest did. Though I were faire (replyed Erinne) yet I should be none of those who would give any comfort unto you: And since [...] am not (added Athys, and blushed) I have nothing to do but to comfort my selfe that I am not in the number of those who can comfort Alces: For hee is so nice, that he cannot endure those (who like me) are neither faire nor ugly. This is so unjust (replyed Alces) as I wonder that the faire Sapho who useth to be just unto merit, can endure it. The reason is, replyed she, because it belongs not unto me to commend the beauty of Athys in your presence: For since you have such tender and delicate eyes as cannot look upon any uglinesse in women, I am perswaded they are also judicious enough to know true beauty, and that you can commend her better then any other. However (continued she) I would gladly know, whether Phaon and Themistogenes be as nice as Alces is: As for Nicanor and Democides, I know they have some friends who are none of the fairest. For my part Madam (replyed Phaon) though I am a great adorer of beauty, yet I should think it a great wrong unto Ladies, if I should look upon it as the only advantage of their sexe: And I can assure you, I am so farr from the opinion of Alces, that I am perswaded it is not a thing impossible to be in love with a woman who hath no beauty at all, provided she be not extreamly ugly: For there are women who have such rare beauties of mind, and such engaging graces in their humours, that they may infinitely please, and be very amiable. For my part (said Themistogenes) I should much better love a woman who is knowing in all high and excellent things, though she were not handsome, then I should an ignorant faire one. For ought I see (replyed Sapho and laughed) I can never be loved either by Alces, or by Themistogenes: For I am not faire as the first would have his Mistresse, nor am I knowing, as Themistogenes desires his to be: and therefore it is my best course to make Nicanor, Phaon, and Democedes my friends: But if in seeking to make them your friends (replyed Cydnon, and smiled) you should finde a Lover of any of them, what would you say then? Doubtlesse I should say, replyed she, that I have found more then ever I did, or more then I do desire.
As Nicanor, Phaon, and I were ready to reply, Cynegira entred into her Chamber, whose presence made our discourse to change, and Nicanor, Phaon, Themystogenes and I went presently out. Yet Madam, since there was a very pleasant Plain before Sapho's Lodging, we walked there: And after one turn, Phaon began to speak in a low voyce unto me, because he vvould not have Nicanor knovv his opinion of Sapho. Ah dear friend (said hee unto mee) vvhat an Enemy had I been unto my selfe, had I not seen the most admired Sapho? Well (said I unto him) have you found her over-wise? does she much resemble Damophile? was there any necessity of talking concerning high matters as you imagined you should? For my part (said he) I am so charmed with the sight of her, that I cannot think any one in the world comparably so amiable: For she is so sweet, so sociable, and so gallant, as I find her all superlative; and when I consider how this excellent Woman who is versed in the most sublime knowledg, did divert her [Page 101] selfe so pleasingly in triviall things, I begin to feare I shall fall in Love with her, if I should continue seeing her: and yet I think it is impossible for me to forbeare. I thought you would change your opinion of her (said I unto him) as soon as you saw her: But I would gladly know (said he) whether she be alwayes so amiable as she was this day; and whether she have no tincture of that pride, which is almost inseparable from such as have any extraordinary parts? Tell me friend, does she always speak with so little aflectation or sharpnesse as she did now?
All I can say unto you is, replyed I, that she is sometimes as much above what you saw her now, as you found her now above what you expected: Oh Democedes, replyed he, it is not possible: The faire Sapho cannot, no it is most impossible she should appear more amiable than she did this day.
After this, Nicanor began to talk with Phaon, and Themistogenes began to addresse his speech unto me very faintly: I must confesse unto you (said he unto me) I have been much astonished this afternoon: Why (said I) are you not pleased with the sight of Sapho? So little, replyed he, that were I not perswaded she concealed her knowledg because there was many Women in the company, I should lay aside the high opinion which I had conceived of her: For truly I heard her not speak any thing this day which any other Lady did not know as well as she, & might speak as well. Yet you must confesse (replyed I coldly) that though she did speak like a Lady, yet it was like a Lady who spoke very well.
I must needs confesse, said he, that she used no barbarous words; but to tell you truly, I expected much more from her then I found: Perhaps you expected (said I unto him) that she should have read a Phylosophy Lecture, resolved some difficult questions, and explained some obscure places in Hesiode and Homer? I expected at least (said he) that nothing would have come out of her mouth but high matter, w [...]ich should have made her knowledg appeare: And for my part, I tell you ingenuously, that I am perswaded she will sometimes shew her knowledg, for it is not possible she should get such a reputation over all Greece, if she talked of nothing but trifles, such as I heard her speak of this day.
You may imagin Madam, how I wondred at the difference of opinion between Phaon and Themistogenes. In the mean time, Themistogenes spoke so loud, that Phaon confusedly heard what he said, so that being now one of the most jealous admirers of Sapho, he came unto us, and asked me of what Themistogenes talked? He told me (replyed I and smiled) that he could not see how Sapho should deserve all those applauds which are attributed unto her; but that he expected from her, a thousand excellencies, which she never so much as mentioned. I perceive, (replyed Phaon faintly) that the fair Sapho cannot get the esteem both of Themistogenes and me, for I do infinitely esteem her. After her discourse upon all these trifles, where with he upbraids her; but I should scarcely have esteemed her, had she only talked of such high matters as he imagined she would; so that it follows of absolute necessity, she cannot please us both: I confess it (replyed Themistogenes faintly) but the difficulty is to know whether it were not more advantageous for Sapho, to satisfie me than to satisfie you. If you please to let Nicanor and Democedes be our Judges, replyed Phaon, I shall consent unto it.
Since I am altogether on your side (replyed Nicanor unto Phaon) and directly against Themistogenes, I am not a competent judge: it is no wonder, said Phaon, that Themistegenes and I should differ in Opinions, for it is not above two years since, we were both of one mind, in any thing: so as it is not strange that as soon as I began to admire Sapho he should not admire her; but prefer Damophile because I preferr Sapho before all the women I ever saw: and indeed I have abundance of reason so to do, for to write as she writes, and to discourse as she doth, are two qualities so admirable, that she deserves the esteem of the world. But yet I pray tell mee (replyed Themistogenes in such a pelt as made us laugh) what hath she said which hath excellency in it? she spoke elegantly and gallantly (replyed Phaon) and she spoke with modesty, and in such a discreet manner, as she hath merited my admiration; but not mine (replyed he) for I never use to ad [...]ny thing but what is extraordinary: I once knew a man at Athens (replyed Phaon) who was of the same humour with Themistogenes, for he knew not how to put a difference between things which men admire, and things which make [Page 102] men astonished; I cannot tell you whether I am of his humour you mean, or no (replyed Themistogenes very [...]iercely) but I am sure I cannot see any difference between Sapho and other women of Mytelene, by any discourse I heard her utter, and in the humour I am in, if she do not elevate her Muse to a higher strain than I heard her this day, I shall beleive some hath made her verses and published them in her name.
Phaon hearing Themistogenes say so, began first to laugh, and afterwards to be angry in good earnest, so as replying very sharply upon one another: they sell to quarrell: Nicanor and I should have had much ado to part them, if Alces and two more had not accidentally come in.
However, since this quarrell could not be taken up upon the sudden, it was the next day before they were reconciled; so as it was divulged all over the Town. But Phaons advantage was, that I related all the passage unto my sister, and she unto Sapho, insomuch as the very first day that he saw Sapho, she understood that she was obliged to him.
This reconciliation had one Circumstance in it which was very remarkable; for Phaon would not be [...]eind [...] with Themistogenes, untill he had acknowledged himself too blame in judging so rashly upon Saphoes merit, so as this excellent Lady hearing of all these passages did think her self very much beholden unto Phaon, and the next time she saw him, she received him very obligingly, and she no sooner saw him enter into her chamber, but she went to meet him most civily, and acc [...]sted him with such singular and gallant complements, that it deserves a rehersall: For looking upon him with a smiling countenance: Sir, said she unto him, you have so commended me for not talking of high matters, that I care scarcely thank you for the favour least contrary to my custome I should use any such big phrases as might purchase the esteem of Themistogenes, and loose yours.
Your language Madam (replyed he) is so full of wit and gallantry that I cannot repent of my disgust against Themistogenes, for he who does not admire you, deserves an immortall quarrell from all rationall men, when you are well acquainted with me Sir, (replyed Sapho) you will see that I am not so jealous of my honour: And that as long as they do not asperse my virtue and my goodness, I care not what they say.
Afterwards Sapho, causing Phaon to sit down, the company were very pleasant, for not only all her intimate friends were there, but Phylire, Nicanor, and I were there also, And after much discourse upon the Errour of Themistogenes, who thought every one to be ignorant, if they do not talk of high things, Phylire said that though gross ignorance was a most odious fault, yet she thought it better all women were so, then to be overwise, for do but imagin, said she, what a pestilent persecution it would be, if we had but two or three damosells more in Mytelene, But I beseech you imagin also on the other side replyed Phaon, what a felicity it would be if there were but five or six Saphoes in the whole world, and if Athens, Delphos, Thebes, and Argos, could boast of that honour as well as Mytelene. Oh Phaon replyed Sapho, and blushed) I beseech you do not lessen my Obligations by overcommending me, and remember that I do not affect it, nor would I pass for wise. For the truth is, that though I do know some things, which all women do not know, yet I am sure I know less, than all women ought to know.
Truly Madam, (replyed Cydnon and laughed) you do engage them unto a great task, and to speak sincerely, you know so much, that I cannot tell how you should conceal your knowledge from them, nor how you should infuse it into them. I am very certain (replyed Sapho) that I know so very little, that if all women, would imploy that time well which they imploy idely, they would know a thousand times more than I do. Your expressions Madam, are so ingenious, so modest, and so noble, (replyed Phaon) that though what you say as relating to your selfe be not positively true, yet I cannot for my life choose but commend you: For it is most certain that most Ladies are much to blame in spending many a most precious houre, which might be much better imployed than they use to do.
For my particular (said Phylire) I cannot tell how Ladies can learn any thing though they would; for often times, I have not so much leasure as to go unto the temple, and I have a friend who is every day so long in dressing her self, that the sun is set before she can get out of her Chamber.
[Page 103] I have often thought (replyed Amithone) that Sapho could not afford her self so much time as to sleep and do all shee did, untill I went a journey with her into the Countrey; But since then, I have been convinced of my error, by seeing her order her time so well, that she had leasure to do a thousand things, which I could not do: for she found as much time to sleep as kept her complexion fresh, and her eyes in Luster: she had time enough to dresse her self as gallantly as any did: she had also her times of reading, writing, studying, walking, and still time enough to look unto her businesse, and to enjoy her friends. And all this without being troubled, or being busie. I would she would teach me the secret (said the faire Athis) for could I learn it, I would strive to know more then I do. But before you oblige her to impart so great a secret (replyed Erinne) I would all women here would wel examin whetherit be expedient that women generally, should know more then they do. I think that Question will easily be resolved (replyed Sapho) for I must confess that though I am a declared enemy unto all women who are alwayes in their Altitudes of knowledge and wisedome, yet I cannot choose but extreamely condemne the other extreame, and be ashamed to see so many women of quality so grosely ignorant, as in my opinion, they dishonour their sex. Nor know I any thing more injurious unto our sex, then that any should say a woman is not obliged to learn any thing: for if so, then would I also have her forbidden to speak, and not taught to write: for if she may write and speak, it is but reason she should use all helps to better her understanding, to informe her judgment, and to learne how to speak and write well. And seriously it is the oddest thing in the world to observe how women commonly are educated: They must not be any Gossippers nor Gallants, and yet they are taught with abundance of care every quality that belongs to gallantry, but never any thing that will fortifie their virtue, or improve their wits: Dancing, singing, and playing, are parts that must not by any means be neglected, but are never instructed in any thing which may make them speak well, or carry themselves in any business with discretion: And considering how some Ladies lead their lives, one would think, that they were forbidden all reason, or wit, for they doe nothing in the world but sleep, grow fat. and make themselves faire, and never do or say any thing but foolishly. And I am sure there's none in the company but knows some unto whom what I say is applicative: For my part, I do know one who useth continually to sleep above twelve houres: who spends three or foure in dressing her self, or to say better in undressing her self, for she spends half the time, in undoing what she did before, afterwards she imployes two or three more in her repasts and collations, and all the rest of the day is spent amongst men unto whom she knowes not how to talke: Judge I beseech you, whether the life of this Lady is not well spent: I must confesse, replyed Alces, many Ladies, do live as you do say.
For my part, replyed Cydnon, I am not at all concerned in what she sayes, for since I spend my whole time in her company, I cannot be charged with any mispending it: Oh Cydnon, replyed Amithone, I hartily thank you for finding out so good a reason, to make my ignorance excusable, since I have as much right unto it as you (added the faire Athys) I may make the same use of it.
Were I as knowing as you are, (replyed Erinne) I should not stand in need of any excuse: For my part, (said Phylire) I have no excuse for my selfe: For I have so seldome the happinesse of seeing Sapho, that I cannot make it my excuse to have imployed any of my time in her company. And I must ingeniously confesse, that sometimes I trifle away a whole day, and yet cannot say that I had any considerable businesse: For my part (said Sapho,) to speak in generall, the reason why women have so little time, is because they spend it idely, and make a great business of every trifle: one misplaced Curle is an hours rectification, and takes up more time, then a thing both of profit and delight would do, yet I would not have it thought (added she) that I am at all against any womens ornaments or dancing, singing or playing or such accomplishments: no, on the contrary, I allow them all delights and recreations: but to tell you truely, I would have them take as much care in dressing their minds as well as their bodies. And between being knowing and ignorant, I would have them take the middle between these two extreams, which will keep them from being troublesome, by their ignorant stupidity [Page 104] or impertinent audacity. I assure you, replyed Amythone, this way is very hard to be found out. If any living can find it, and teach it, replyed Phaon, it must be Sapho. For my particular (replyed Philire) I should be infinitly obliged unto her, if she would be pleased to tell me how far a woman ought to be knowing: Doubtless it is very difficult (replyed Sapho) to give a generall rule for what you aske: for there are such variety and difference of spirits that no Law can be so universall, and not unjust.
Yet I conceive this for an infallible Maxime, that though I would have women to know more then generally they do, yet I would not have them talke as if they were knowing at all I would have them give others leave and cause to say, that they know more then they will vaunt of, that they have good wits, that they can speak well, and write elegantly, but I would not have it said of them, that they are learned: Not but that those who are not called learned may know as much, and perhaps more then those unto whom they give that Title: yet I would have them conceale their knowledge and witts: Then I perceive (said Philire) That there are some things which either they must not know, or else they must not shew them though they do know them. It is most certainly true, (replyed Sapho) that there are some sciences which women ought never to learn, and that there are others which they may, yet they ought never to confesse they know them though they may let people guesse as much. But, I beseech you, unto what purpose is it for them to know such things as they must never be known to know? (replyes Philire) it wil help them to understand what those who are more learned then them selves do say (replyed Sapho) and to speak also to the purpose, without speaking bookishly, but only as if naturall ingenuity instructed them. Also there are a hundred delectable Sciences, which are not necessary to be kept secret, for they may very well speak forraigne Languages, they may confesse that they have read Homer, Hesiod, and the excellent works of the illustrious Aristhius, without any shewing too much Schollership: Also they may give their opinions in so modest a manner without any unbecommingnesse to their sex, as they may thereby make their witt, their knowledge and their judgement to appeare. They may and ought to know, all the helps unto writing well for in my opinion, it is a most grosse error, to say they would have women speak well and write ill, and the priviledge of ignorance which they pretend unto is so shamefull unto all their sex in generall, that if they understood it they would blush. The truth is, said Nicanor. There is so little coherence in the letters of Ladies, and such odd Orthographie, as if they writ them purposely not to be understood, yet those very same Ladies (said Sapho) and laughed, who commit such grosse faults in their writings, and have spent all their stock of wit in the first line, they will mock a whole day together at a poore stranger, who hath only mistaken one word for another, yet it is much more strange to see a witty woman commit a hundred faults in writing her own naturall Language, then to see a Sythian speak all Greek. Alas, (said Philire and laughed) how deeply am I concerned in your discourse? yet you speak so very well (replyed I) as I cannot think it possible but you must write well also. I do beleeve (replyed Sapho) that Philire writes as well as she speakes: but by your leave, there are some women who speak well and write ill, and all merely by their own negligence: I would gladly know how that comes to passe (said the faire Athis) The reason is, (replyed Sapho) because most women do not care for reading, or else they doe not read applicatively, but run on without any reflection upon what they read: So that though they have read the very same words which they write a thousand times over, yet they visite them wrong, and mislocating the letters they patch up confused nonsence by a custome. All this is most true, (replyed Erinne) For yesterday I made a visit unto one of my friends who is newly returned out of the Countrey, and I caryed all the Letters which she had writ unto me, that she might read them unto me.
Tis plaine therefore, replyed Sapho., that I had good reason to wish women would use to read much, and to read with application: And when they are a lone to make choise of some merry or serious book according to their humour, for it is most certaine that reading doth sooner, and better refine wit, and informe the judgment, then conversation alone can, for truely Conversation doth only give us the [Page 105] first thoughts of those who speak, which often are tumultuous, and so undigested that the speakers do condemne them within a quarter of an hour after; But reading gives us the concocted Opinion of those who writ the books we read. So that though they read simply for their delight, yet it will imprint something in the mind of the Reader, which will better it, and preserve them from falling into many grosse errors which ignorance would plung them unto: For my part (said Alces) I know one of those bold Ignorants, who will be talking of every thing though she know nothing, who talking the other day unto a stranger which was relating his Travells, she discovered her ignorance so farre, as it appeared she thought the Caspian Sea greater then the Egean and that the Euxine Sea was beyond the Caspian. And that the Egean Sea was the least of all others. I would advise all women, replied Sapho, not to talke much of what they know well, and not to talk at all of what they know not.
And indeed, I would have them, never to be very knowing nor very ignorant, but only to manage well those advantages which nature hath given them. I would have them (as I said before) be as carefull to beautifie their minds (as their Persons. But I beseech you (said Phylire) how can women find leisure to read and learn any thing? That time which Ladies lose in doing nothing, or in doing things nothing to any purpose (replyed Sapho, would serve to let them know enough, to conceale their ignorance. Moreover, do not imagine, I would have any woman such a perpetuall Reader as never to talk: No, (but on the contrary) I would have her read only so much as will teach her how to speak well. And would advise them to Conversation, as well as to the other, provided they never transgress the modestie of their Sex. But I wish with all my heart that women were not such sluggards as they are, and I wish that I my selfe may apply these Councells unto my self which I give unto others. Madam, replyed Phaon your modesty goes too farr, and you need not say that of your self which none does think. The truth is, said Nicanor, the fair Sapho is very unjust unto her own merit. She is so just unto the merit of others, (replyed Athys) that it were strange she should not be so unto her owne.
Her advantage is (replyed Cydnon) that every one renders her that justice which she denyes her self; And though she conceals her self as much as she can, yet her excellencies are known unto all Greece: You clip the wings of Fame (replied Phaon and smiled) For I am certaine that the name of Sapho is famous throughout the whole World. For Heavens sake (said the most admirable woman interrupting him and blushing) speak not thus in my presence [...] for I cannot endure it should be thought I take any delight in such high Applauds, since I am most confidently perswaded (and I speak it with all the sincerity of my heart) that I do not deserve them: if that be true Madam, replyed Athys, it is very strange, that you should be knowing in so many things, and yet be ignorant of your own merit: Seriously (replyed Sapho) in a lovely ch [...]e) unlesse you do unaccustome your selves from commending me, I shall unaccustome my self from seeing you any more. Oh Madam (cryed Phaon, Nicanor, Alces and I all at once. For Heavens sake do not threaten us with any such sad affliction. But after this, Sapho continuing her discourse with her accustomed modestie, she told us a hundred pleasing stories, and knew so well how to charm the company that we parted not till night:
At our going from Saphos house, we saw Thimistogenes leading Damophile: and the next day we heard by one of his friends, that he preferred her a thousand degrees before Sapho: So as wondering at his extravagancie we both of us promised to shun him as well as Damophile. In the mean time, I began to perceave, that Phaon in all likelyhood would fall in Love with Sapho, if he were not so already. On the otherside, I understood by my Sister that Sapho did infinitly esteeme him, and that he pleased her more then all the men she ever saw. Alces who was Tisanders spie did also perceive this growing love of Phaon, and the inclination of Sapho, for he hinted as much unto the faire Athys with whom he was in Love: Nicanor who was one of Saphoes adorers, had some slight suspition of it. And both Amithone and Erinne did perceive it as the rest did. As for Sapho, she knew that Phaon was in love with her before he ever told her; for she had such a suitable and delicate spirit of discernment into every thing, that she perfectly knew what thoughts [Page 106] every one had of her, and sometimes knew them before they knew themselves: As fervent as the friendship was which any bore unto this charming Lady, she would never take it under any notion of Love: And how faint and cold soever this passion was in the hearts of some men who were not capable of any zealous fires, by reason of their frozen tempers, she would never take them under the notion of Friendship: so that it is most certain, she precisely knew in what degree any one loved her: and it was so impossible to conceale it from her, that it was absolure folly to attempt it; for she could so well distinguish between the lookes of friendship and the looks of Love, that she was never mistaken.
Moreover she did not only know of what natures the affection of any was unto her: but also she knew what thoughts every one who used to visit her, had unto one another: So as this discerning knowledg of all hearts enabled her to manage matters so cunningly, that she made all Rivalls live in peace, and she augmented or lessened the affection which any bore unto her, almost as she pleased. And yet this last quality had more difficulty in it then the other, for she is so very lovely, that it is a very hard matter for any Lover to go lesse: yet still she would so temper them, as that they would tell her no more then what she had a mind to heare.
Sapho having such a discerning eye, she quickly saw that Phaon was in Love with her: and the sight of it did not offend her, but found such a sweet relish of it in her heart, as she plainly saw, that if she would ever defend her selfe against Phaon, shee must begin betimes, so as shee resolved to overcome her selfe: But she could not resolve to hinder Phaon from ioving her, and contented her selfe with never answering his affection by the like. However, Cydnon being her grand Confident, they held a Councell together about it, which I intend to relate unto you, that you may the better know the temper of Sapho's soule.
My sister being then with her one Evening, and both leaning upon a Balcone which opened towards the Sea, she saw by Moon light some ships coming to My [...]elene. I wish these be not the Ships of Thrasibulus, which bring back Tysander unto us (said she, and smiled): For that Prince being of very much merit, I wish for his own tranquility he may not return unto a Place where he would be more miserable then when he departed: I cannot see (replyed Sapho) that any great alterations have hapned here since his departure: For I hold him in the same degree of esteem as I did, and my heart has the same resolutions of never loving him: if that were all, replyed Cydnon, he would not be so miserable as he is like to be; but I know there is something more in it, I wonder (replyed Sapho) why you should say so. Since you would needs have it (replyed Cydnon) I must tell you, that Phaon is here: Cydnon you are always so full of your Querks (replyed Sapho and blushed) that I need not wonder at them. I assure you Madam, replyed Cydnon, there is no Quarks in what I say; for it is so apparant Phaon is in Love with you, as it is impossible to be one hour in his company, and not perceive it: And when he is in your presence, they must be blind who do not see it, and deaf who cannot understand it by his words; for he speaks always with such cordiall earnestnesse, that his thoughts cannot be doubted: However, replyed Sapho, they do not see mee answer him with the same earnestnesse. You Madam (replyed Cydnon) doe know so well how to regulate all your actions, that your thoughts can never bee knowne by your Actions: Yet I who know you better then any others, I am most confident you do not hate Phaon, and that if Fate have resolved you must love any, it must be him: I perceive Cydnon (replyed shee and smiled) that you think you have stoln from mee the Art of knowing the thoughts of others by bare conjectures: but I believe that you are now mistaken in your Conjectures and Predictions: 'Tis true (added she) That Phaon was very glad to find that I did resemble Damophile: and (to be sincere with you) I know he loves me, or at least hath some inclination to it: But I must professe unto you, that I have no intentions to answer his Love. For since exact decency requires one should not only defend themselves against criminall affections, but from the most innocent also, I must observe it, and not expose my selfe unto scandall, although I am perswaded that it is not impossible but one may love very innocently. I do believe it is not impossible (replyed Cydnon): And since there are many [Page 107] men have honest hearts, there can be no great danger in engaging with them. It is so dangerous (said Sapho) that since I knew the world, I never knew two whom I could think capable of any complyance of such a nature as I imagine.
But to speak unto you as unto my second selfe, though decency hath so established it a Law, that Women should not love any by reason of the bad consequences which Love may cause when it is in bad minds and hearts, which have only grosse, brutall, and terrestriall thoughts: yet let me positively tell you, that it is unjust, and without derogation from solid virtue. I believe one may make some distinction between some men, and contract a pure affection with one whom one shall make choise of.
And indeed, the Gods who never made any thing in vaine, did not create in vaine a certain inclination in our souls to love: But Cydnon, the grand difficulty is to regulate this affection, to make a good choise of him whom one would love, and to carry it so discreetly, that scandall it selfe cannot cavill at it: And when all is done, it is most certain that nothing is comparably so sweet as to be loved by a person whom one doth love. Doubt not but that I do condemn all the irregular extravagancies of Love, but I do not condemn the passion it selfe which caused it: And the truth is, those extravagancies proceed rather from the distempers of those who are in Love, then from Love it selfe: and it must be confessed, that they who do not know, that I know not what which redoubles all delights, and has the art of giving sweetnesse unto inquietude, they do not know how far joys can reach. As for those Ladies who take delight in being loved without loving again, they have no other satisfaction then what their own vanities affords them: But I do comprehend that there are a thousand sweers which are all purity and all innocency in a mutuall affection. This agreeable exchange of thoughts, of secret thoughts, this communion of souls which is made between two persons who love each other, is a pleasure unutterable, unconceivable. And to ju [...]g of Love by Friendship, I assure you my deare Cydnon, that I am now more joyed in opening my heart unto you, then I should be if we were together at the most glorions Feast in the world.
Then Madam, to tast these joyes more fully (replyed Cydnon) I conjure you to open your most secret thoughts unto me, and confesse unto me sincerely, that if you find in Phaon all that is desirable to contract such an affection with him as you imagine, that you would have much ado to defend your selfe: And to carry this cond [...]i [...]nce as far as it will go, tell me truly the nature of this affection, and in what manner you imagine it. Ah Cydnon (said she unto her) you engage me very far: Yet since I will not deny you any thing. I will answer to your question, and tell you that I am not of their minds who speak of Love, as of a thing which cannot be innocent, unlesse they intend to marry: For my part, I must confesse unto you that the delicacy of my mind, of my fancy, and of that Idea which I conceive of this passion is such, that I do not think that kind of Matrimoniall Love to be pure and noble enough; And if I found in my heart only a bare desire of marrying any one, I should blush as for a crime, upbraid my selfe as with a thing unworthy of my selfe, and should be more ashamed then other women use to be of a criminall gallantry.
But I beseech you Madam (replyed Cydnon) would you have any love you without any hopes? I would have him hope to be loved (replyed she) but I would not have him hope any further; and it is the greatest folly in the world to love any one unlesse with intention to love for ever: but to love any other way then as I intend, is to expresse ones selfe to fall from Love unto indifferency, from indifferency to hatred, and from hatred to scorn.
But I beseech you tell me (replyed Cydnon) how you intend one should love you, and how you do intend to love? I expect (said she) that one should love me servently, that he should love none but me, and love me with all imaginable respect: I would have his love so tender and sensible, as to think the least trifle from me a delight, I would have his love to have the solidity of friendship, and [...]ounded upon esteem and upon inclination. Moreover, I would have this Lover to be most faithfull and sincere: yet would I have him to admit of no confident of his passion but my selfe, but so lock up his Love in his heart, that I may [Page 108] brag of being the only one who knows it: I would have him also tell me all his secrets, impart all his sorrows unto me: I would have the sight of me to be his chief felicity, and that my absence may be a most sad affliction to him: That hee never mention the least syllable to me, which may make me suspect his love, and that he fully perswade me that it is fervent and eternally durable: In short, my deare Cydnon, I would have a Lover, and not a Husband: I would have him such a one as contenting himselfe with the pos [...]ession of my heart, should love me till death and if I cannot find out such a one, I will never have any. Well Madam (replyed Cydnon) since you have told me how you would be loved, so I beseech you tell me how you do intend to love. In telling the one, replyed she, I have told you the other: and there ought to be no other difference of thoughts, then such as custome hath established, which requires that the man must be more complaisant, more obsequious and more submissive: As for matter of tenderness and confidence, doubtles they ought to be both equall: and if any difference be to be made, it is in this, that the man ought to give testimonies of his love, and the woman to let him only guess at hers.
If Phaon be ever so happy (replyed Cydnon) as to give you any test monies of his love, and that you permit him to guess at yours, doubtlesse he will be the most worthy of all mens envy. If he be worthy of rnvy replyed Sapho. I should much feare I should not be worthy of pitty: For considering the constitution of my heart, if I should once love, I should love so tenderly, and in such good earnest, that it would be hard for any one to pay me back love with usury. Yet I am fully perswaded that to be happy in loving, one must at least believe that they are as much loved as they love; for otherwise one should be ashamed of their own weaknesse, and vexed at the neutrality of the other. Therefore Cydnon, though I doe believe one may innocently love, and though I think Phaon to be amiable, and that he hath an inclination to love me, yet I am resolved to do what I can, not to love him.
But Madam, whilst Sapho was talking thus with my sister, Phaon was talking with me of things very particular; and we two being always inseparable, we walked that Evening upon a Tarrass, the end of which was towards the Sea, by which one goes to Sicily: So as after we had walked a while, he leaned upon the Rayls by himselfe, and fell into such a profound musing. that I knew he never thought I was there. I had formerly observed many passages, which induced me to believe that he was in Love with Sapho, and therefore I knew he thought more of her then me. And to twitt him with it, I believe (said I unto him) that since you look so earnestly towards Sicily, you are thinking of that faire foole whom you loved there: Fie cruell friend (said he unto me) mock not at my misery, it is enough you have been the cause of it, without insulting upon a wrerched man who hath changed his mind. Why (said I unto him) do you not think it better to love a faire foole, then a faire wise One? No no, Democedes (said he unto m) I think it so strange that I should ever love a witlesse woman, that I am perswaded I was out of my own wits, or never had any untill I came from Sicily: But deare friend (added he) before I discover the secrets of my soule unto you, tell me truly how you stand affected unto the faire Sapho; for if you be my Rivall, you are not fit to be my Confident. Doubtlesse I am a very great admirer of Sapho, replyed I, but I never durst be her Lover: Then friend I am bolder then you (replyed he) for I do love that divine Lady in so high a manner, as I thinke I shall loose my wits. When I first carried you thither, replyed I, and smiled, you did not believe you could ever fall in love with any learned woman: Ah Democedes, said he unto me I did not think she had learned the Art of charming hearts but alas was mistaken: and I find you had good reason to say, that every one must be miserable before happy in Love: For such is the state I am in, that I find more delight in only meeting the eyes of Sapho, then I did in being loved by my fair fool: I found no difficulty in obtaining her esteem, and I wonder now that I did not scorn her. She looked upon me indeed very favourably, and looked upon me with eyes very faire: but they signified so little, and understood my mind so uery ill, that I wonder how I came to think her faire.
The truth is, Democedes, I am now very far from loving a faire [...]ool, since I love [Page 109] the fair Sapho, but alas, the grand difficulty is, to tell her as much, and to tell her that I would be loved; since friend, you have all accomplishments requisite to merit her esteem (replyed I) how know you but you may winn her affection? I have been consulting with her eyes above these eight daies, (replyed he) and endeavoured to diviue my destiny, and whether I am so much in her favour as to discover my love unto her, but to tell you truly, I know not what to think; somtimes me thinks her eyes do give me some kind of far fetch hopes; and somtimes again they bid me despair, but however, all her looks augments my love, my heart trembles at every glance of her eye, which inspires me with such kind of I know not what delights, as I cannot express them; when I am with her, I can do nothing else but look upon her, wonder not therefore at my musing, (my dear Democedes) for my soul is so wholy taken up with this divine Lady, that though I speak, yet I cannot think of any thing but her. I can think of nothing, but what heavenly delight it would be to be beloved by such an Angell as she, & what an honour it would be, to infuse some weakness into so great a wit, as that of the most admirable Sapho, I am thinking of all that I can san say unto her, and when I am alone by my self, yet I have long conference with her: The truth is, I do find the fair Sapho, to be very Civill, Sweet and obliging to me; but for all that, she trusts me with no secret, and I could never oblige her to shew me any of her verses. This most admirable Lady is so modest, (replyed I) that her denyall need be no wonder unto you, for you have not yet been so long acquainted, as to come unto the honour of such a singular priviledge.
But however, you have this advantage (said I unto him) that unto this hour she never suspected you of ever loving any, though she knows you have a very passionate soul.
After this Madam, we retyred, taking no notice whilst we talked, that the moon was in an Ecclips; but in our retiring we met Themistogenes with five or six men learned in Astrology; whom, he was carrying unto Damophile, purposely to argue with them in her presence upon this Ecclips: And we understood afterwards, that they spent almost all the night at her house in talking of the earths interposition between the Sun and the Moon, and many other things of that nature; so that all the noble company who used to meet at Saphoes, did much divert themselves at this adventure, for since Cynegere (with whom Sapho dwelt) did very well know her wisdome and discretion, she permitted every one to go into her chamber, though Cynegire was not present, so that Amithone, Erinne, Athys, Cydnon, Nicanor, Phaon, Alces, and I, being all with Sapho, we made the conversation very pleasant, by having up all the follies which were in agitation at Damophiles, and though Sapho did not affect any Rallary in her presence yet she did not contradict this, but on the contrary, was the first which twitted Damophiles, to the end it might the better be known how great the difference was between them; so as making a very pleasant description of a confused company, she did extreamly divert all her own society. However, said Cydnon, we get this advantage from the foolish conversation of Damophile, that it serves to render ours more diverting, by the excellent discription which Sapho made of it; I wish she would also describe unto us, (replyed Phaon) all other kind of fantasticall conversations which are to be found in the world: Indeed said Athys, it would be very pleasant if she would be pleased to take so much pains, as to observe all their impertinencies.
You put me upon a hard imployment (replyed Sapho) it would be much better and shorter, if every one in particular would describe that conversation which hath most wearied them: For my part (said Erinne) I am very glad of that; for I was yesterday in a company which I thought would have talked me to death, for I was in the midst of ten or twelve women, who talked everlastingly; but of no other subject than triviall domestique business, the fault of their servants, the good qualities of their children, and there was one woman amongst the rest, who spent an hour in repeating sillable after sillable, the first pratling of her son, who was three years of age, judge I beseech you, what a fine time I had of it. I assure you (replyed Nicanor) that I spent my time no better than you did; for I was much against my will engaged amongst a troop of women, who spent a whole day in talking of nothing but the goodness or the badness of their cloathes, telling or asking [Page 110] what they cost, some out of vanity said they, cost more than they did: Others to shew their skill in buying, said less: so I wished my part of the day out of the Callendar: For my part (replyed the fair Athis) I was within these five daies with a company of Ladies, who though they had wit enough, yet were extreamly troublesome, for they were Ladies who were gallants by profession, who had every one their business, and business which did so wholy take them up, as they thought of nothing but taking one anothers gallants from them, by al [...] manner of stratagems, so as though one were not of their intrigues, yet one should be engaged with them or else either be driven to a non plus, or non-plus them.
Indeed as long as I was with them, I heard them alwaies talking, but never understood what they said, for there was one on my right hand, who told her who was next her, that she knew such a one was broken off with such a one, and that this man had renewed with that woman, never naming any: And there was another on my left hand who talking to a Lady next her, the most foolishly that ever was heard, for (said she in a mighty fret) she you know of, need not to brag of taking my Gallant from me, since she had never gotten him from me, but because I had cast him off, and if the toy take me, I can call him again, and she shall never be the better for him as long as she lives, and the very truth is, I never was in all my life put so much out of all patience, as that day.
For my part (said Cydnon) had I been in your room, I would have laughed at them who wearied me, but I could not do so three days since at a man and a woman whose whole discourse was of two things, either of Mytelenian Geneulogies, or of the estates belonging to families; for what delight can be taken in hearing tell a whole day together; that Zenocrates was the son of Tryphon, Clidemes son to Lenophantes, Lenophantes was descended from Tyrseus, & so they begot one another: Also what pleasure is to be taken in hearing one talk of such a house wherein you have no interest, nor ever had, no nor is ever like to have as long as you live; how it was built by such a one, bought by another, and exchanged by a third, and that it is now at this present in the possession of a man whom you know not? this questionless is not very pleasing (replyed Alcaes) but it is not so tedious as to meet with a man who has some peevish business in hand, and will not talk of any thing else: For I once met a Sea Captain, who pretended that Pittacus ought to make him recompence for a ship which he had lost, who held me three long and tedious hours in relating those reasons which he had for his pretence; and who will answer and reply and object and answer Pro, and Con, as if the case were pleading before a Judge: And the better to understand his loss, he would tell me by peece meale what he was forced to cast out of his ship, and would name every person in it, one after another when it was to no purpose in the earth.
Tis true said Amithone, that this is a very great persecution; but I must tell you, that grave and serious conversations, where every word is delivered in Querpo, and where the least smile is not permitted, hath somthing so tedious in it, that I am never amongst such, but my head akes, for one must alwaies speak in one tone never laugh, but be as composed as in the Temple; such company is very tedious (replyed Phaon) but there are a sort quite opposite unto those who are infinitly against the strain of my fancy; for I was one day at Syracuse, with five or six women, and two or three men, who had a fancy, that to make the company more merry, could be continually laughing so that as long as they went together, they laughed at every word which one said unto another, there was no jeast or pleasant conceit in it, but made such a mad dinn as deafed one another, and laughed, only because others laughed without any other reason; but what is most strange is, that laughter has such a contagion sometimes in it, that there is no Antidote against the disease; but being one day amongst these eternall laughers, they so infected me, that I laughed untill tears trickled down my cheeks, and knew not any reason in the world for it: But to tell you truly, I was so ashamed at my self, that within a quarter of an hour after my joyes were turned into sorrows. Though it be much folly to laugh without any cause, (replyed Sapho) yet I should not be so much weary, with being in the company of such merry people, as with those whose discourse is nothing but tel [...]ing such pittifull; and sad, long winded stories, as would tyre out Patience it self, for I know a woman who knows all the tragicall adventures which [Page 111] ever hapned; who will spend a whole day in deploring the miseries of life, and in relating lamentable accidents in such a sad and languishing tune, as if she had been hired the sing to dolefull ditty of the worlds misery. Yet I do know a house where their discourse useth he be as irksome as possible (replyed Erinne) for they never talk of any thing but the trifling passages of their neighbour hood, of which Courtiers, unless by great accident, I never so much as heard of, or have any thing to do with, I have heard them name a hundred persons in one day, whom they know not; and they would talk of a hundred obscure passages, the noise of which never went out of the street where they were done, and which in themselves were so silly and so far from any delighting, as that they were very troublesome.
It is a great affliction, replyed Nicanor, to be in a great company where every one hath a secret, especially unto one who hath none nor any thing to do, but to heare that humming murmure, which they make who are talking in low voyces, yet were there whispers upon reall secrets, replyed Sapho my patience would allow it: but often times they are only upon a triviall businesse no better then a Childs Rattle bought at the last faire. I know some people (added Alces;) who in my opinion are very weary some, though sometimes they are a little pleasing; for they have such a vaine of telling great News, as they never talke of any thing under a great Battle, on the seige of some considerable Town, or some grand revolution in the world: and they would have you to know, that the gods did not alter the face of the Universe, but only to furnish them with discourse: for excepting these high stories, they have nothing to say, nor can endure any other talke: So as unlesse you know the very bottome of Policie, and have History at your fingers end, there is no talking with them of any thing. The truth is replyed I, It is very tedious, to harken unto such people: but such kind of People as without any care of the generall businesse of the world, will heare of nothing but privacies, are very troublesome for you shall see them alwayes as busie as if they had a thousand great weighty affaires in transaction, though they are of no other nature then medling in other mens matters, and running from house to house with this or that tittle tattle, as publique Spies, who are every where, and desire not the knowledge of any thing to any other end then to tell it again. All these kinds of people (replyed Sapho) are very obnoxious unto Civill societies, and the principall Rule of all Companies ought to be, never to utter any thing against sound judgmen [...]t. I would gladly know (said Ni [...]a [...]or) how you would have our Conversation to be regulated. To speak in generall, replyed she) our discourse ought to be more of things ordinary and gallant, then of any high matters, yet I conceive, that nothing but what is discreet must intervene: Our talke ought to be free, pleasing and pertinent according to the times, places & persons we talk of. To speak alwayes nobly of inferiours simply of high matters, very gallantly of things gallant, and all without any affectation, or earnestnesse. And though conversation ought alwayes to be naturall and reasonable; yet I must needs say, that upon some occasions, sciences may be handsomly brought in, and triviall follies may also have their place, provided they be ingenious and gallant. So as to speak rationally, I conceive there is nothing but may be brought into Conversation so it have wit: and judgment in it. But the most necessary quality to render it sweet and pleasant is a kind of Politnesse of wit which absolutly excludes all manner of biting je [...]st [...] and such as may offend a chast eare.
I would have every one to have the Art of turning things so ingeniously as that they may without offence speak of gallantry unto the most Austere Nun in the world, and to tel a trifling tale unto the gravest and most serious men: to talk of Sciences and ignorance if they be forced; and to vary ones wit, according to the things talked of, and Persons to whom they talk: But above all, I would have a certain spirit of mirth to be predominant, which without any tincture of the follies in those Eternall Laughers who make a great noise upon a little matter may inspire into the hearts of all the company, a disposition to divert themselves at any thing, and to be troubled at nothing: and I allow them to talk of greater matters provided still they talk well, and without any pumping for their words, and of such things as are fit to be talked of.
The Laws Madam, which you gave unto Conversation are such (replyed Phaon) [Page 112] as whosoever shall admire your wisdom, and carry themselves as you do, will merit the admiration of the whole Earth, for never any had such an Art of pleasing of charming, and of diverting, as your selfe. I would all you say were true, (replyed she and blushed) and that I could beleeve you more then I do my selfe, but to shew you that I cannot, and that I know my self often faulty, I ingeniously declare that I have spoken too much, and that in lieu of telling you all my Conceptions concerning society, I should only have said as much of all the company as you have said of mee. After this, every one opposing the modesty of Sapho, we all commended her so highly that we more then half angred her, but afterwards the discourse was so gallant, so free, so pleasant and merry, that it continued til night when we all parted. Phaon who more fettered in the netts of Love then before, would needs stay the last with Sapho, and his passion was so fervent that he resolved to give it a little vent, and not to leave her untill he had given her some glimps of it: So that after we were all gone, he asked pardon for troubling her so long, but Madam (said he unto her) when I saw you only in company, me thought I did not see you enough. Tis true, I am much bettered by your Elegant discourse, and I do admire it more then any, but for all that, I am more joyed when I heare you in presence of none else; and two or three words only which are interrupted only by my selfe, do give me fuller satisfaction, and would more ravish me, then al your excellent Language wherewith you have charmed all the company this day, were you in Love with me (replyed she and smiled) I should think these expressions very gallant, but since I entertaine none but friends, and will never look upon any Lovers, I much chide you, for profiting no better by my discourse concerning Conversation. Since this your Language would be very sutable unto a Mistresse, but not unto a friend. I beseech you Madam, (said he) do you think my Language very sutable unto a Person whom I loved? you know I am alwayes sincere, replyed she) and therefore you may beleive I speak my thoughts. Then Madam (replyed he and looked upon her) my Language is most suitable unto you, for I do not speak it only unto afriend, but unto one with whom I am most desperatly in love: and that in such an humble and reverent manner, that you cannot be offended at me. If decency would allow me (replyed Sapho, and blushed) not to be offended at a declaration of Love, I believe I should not be offended at you: But Phaon it will not, and therefore I must either be angry with you, or else not believe you: Oh Madam (cryed out Phaon) never make any question between these two, but be certaine, that I had rather be treated ill, then not believed.
Since you never saw me angry (replyed she very gallantly) you know not what you say, but since I know what is good for you better then you do your selfe, I will neither be angry with you, nor believe you. Oh I beseech you Madam (said he unto her) believe me and be angry too, if you cannot beleeve me without being angry: for as I told you before, I had much rather see you angry then incredulous. Since beliefe is a thing not in our own power (replyed she) we cannot believe what we would: And therefore when I said that it was in my choise whether I should believe you or be angry with you, I conceive that I spoke improperly, and had better say, That it being impossible for me to believe you, it is also impossible for me to be angry with you. But I beseech you Madam (said he unto her) why cannot you believe that I love you? Is it because you think your selfe not fair and charming enough to captivate harts? Is it because I have not wit enough to know your transcendencies? It is because my soule is frozen, and my heart incapable of any tender passion? Is it because my eyes never yet met yours, and told them what my heart thinks? Or is it because the most admired Sapho does think the unhappy Phaon so unworthy to beare her Chaines, that she had rather think him insensible, then suffer him to weare them? But Madam; say what you please, I can never believe that a Person who is so superlatively knowing in all things, should not know, that I adore her. I assure you (replyed Sapho gallantly) I am so farre from knowing it, that I am perswaded you do not know it your selfe. Therefore to do you all the favour that I can, I will give you three Moneths time to examine your own thoughts without mentioning the least sillable of any such thing unto me, and if after that you think still that you love me, I shall advise upon it whether I should believe you and be angry: In the mean time, let us both live, I conjure [Page 113] you as formerly we used, Sapho expressed her selfe with such a gallant aire that Phaon making no question but that she believed he loved her, he thought himselfe very happy, in that he had said so much, and was no worse treated: And Sapho being unwilling he should force her to be angry with him, she dismissed him, and kept such a strict decorum in all her words; that if her eyes had not betrayed the secret of her heart, Phaon could not have gleaned any hopes: But since questionlesse she had a very strong inclination to him, her looks assured him, that his passion did not displease her: So as he went away well satisfied, and very extreamly fettered in love.
In the mean time, Sapho was not so well satisfied, for my Sister told me, that she was very unquiet. Not but that she had all the advantageous thoughts of Phaon that was possible: but it was, because knowing the tendernesse of her own heart, she was afraid of being engaged to Love, and her feares were the more, because she perceived in her soule such a favourable opinion of this Lover, that she feared her reason was too weak for her inclination. And she saw she had more reason to feare it, because she observed that. All which Alces said unto her in behalfe of the Prince Tysander, did much more displease her then before: and she observed that she did lesse divert her selfe amongst her friends, then she was wont before Phaons acquaintance. She could not choose, when the fancy of composing Verses was upon her, but think upon Phaon, and he did so much run in her memory, in her heart, and imagination; that she would often name him for another: So that Cydnon did often in a jesting way ask her what progresse she made in the heart of Phaon? and what progresse Phaon made in hers? At the first, Sapho was wont to answer in merriment, as she asked the question, but afterwards her answers were more serious, and at last, her answers were so peevish, that Cydnon for a time gave over asking any more. But after a two Months silence concerning that subject, she who would not answer then unto any questions which were asked concerning Phaon, did now begin the first to speak of him. But the truth is, she began not to till after the consequence of an adventure which I shall acquaint you with.
Be pleased to know then, that a most admirable Limner whose name was Leon, coming unto Mitylene, all the friends of Sapho were importunate with her to let her Picture be taken, and they were so very earnest with her, that she was forced to satisfie them in a very particular manner, for she was resolved to let every one of her friends have one, both women and men, so that her Lovers, to obtaine this honour, did all shroud themselves under the notion of friends, and they pretended unto this honour in such a gallant way, as she knew not how to avoid it, for Nicanor, Phaon, Alces and my selfe, being one day at her house: And Amithone Erinne, Athys, and Cydnon being there also; we all began to oblige Cynegire to solicite Sapho for her Picture, every one acquainting her with the rights they had to pretend unto it, so that Nicanor and Phaon, though the Lovers of Sapho, yet pleaded as if they were only her friends: And Alces though Tysanders Solicitor, sued for this Picture, unto a pretence of Tysanders friendship, so as there was only I who said what I thought. It was worth observation, to see how Nicanor was vexed that he could not obtaine Saphoes Picture without Phaon had it as well as himself, and to see how ill satisfied Phaon was that Nicanor should have a Picture, which as he thought, he only deserved. Alces wished that neither of them might have it, and he merrily said that if Sapho would be ruled by him, she should give it unto none but himselfe, for (said he unto her) since my heart was engaged before I had the honour to see you, you may very well give me your Picture without feare of any dangerous consequences, but as for Nicanor and Phaon since none can see into their hearts, it is to be feared, that in thinking to give your Picture unto your friends only, you may give it unto your Lovers. As soone as Alces had said so Phaon and Nicanor looked upon one another, as if they had been at a stand for an answer unto Alces, yet that trouble was saved then, for I speaking as for my owne interest since every one is for himself only (replyed I, in speaking to Alces) I neither speak for Nicanor nor Phaon, but I dare boldly affirm, that I may very well demand the Picture of the most admirable Sapho, only as the Brother of Cydnon.
[Page 114] And I affirm, (added Phaon) that Alces is not in a condition worthy of it, though his merits are enough for since he is in love with another, and should be so happy as to get the picture of his mistress, then the picture of the most transcendent Sapho, would be placed below another. Since perhaps he shall never obtain that favour from his Mistress, (replyed Athys and blushed) I cannot think that reason sufficient to hinder Sapho from granting her picture unto Alces, who I beleive can never have a mistress, whom he will set above her. However it be (said Phaon) I think it not expedient that the fair Sapho, should give her picture unto any, but such friends as are not in love as Alces is: If so (said Nicanor unto Phaon) who can assure the fair Sapho, that you deserve to have her picture? For since you are but new come into Mytelene, and have been long in Scicily, it is probable you have a mistress there; but it is otherwise with me, for it is well known, that I use to visit none assidiously, but the fair Sapho, and that I was never guilty of any gallantry which might render me unworthy of her picture.
Since I came unto Mytelene, without any invitation of business, (replyed Phaon) it is to be thought I was not in love where you mentioned, since I left it upon such easie tearms, but without any pumping for reasons to justifie my self, I do consent that the fair Sapho refuse me her picture, if she think I was in love with any in Scicily.
For my part (said Amithone) if I were to be credited, none should have the fair Saphocs picture but my self. And if my advice would be taken, (said Erinne) I would have it sent over all the world, so I had it (replyed Athys) it should be done as she pleased. And provided my brother had one (replyed Cydnon) I should be contented she should deny it unto Alces, unto Nicanor, and unto Phaon, I conceive my best course is (replyed Sapho) to give it unto none. No, no (said Cynegere) you shall not be mistress of your self: But least you should dis-oblige any, you shall give it unto all your friends without exception, for if you should except any one, perhaps you would do him a greater favour than in giving it. Though what Cynegere said might well have pleased all the company, yet Nicanor, and Phaon did argue the business between themselves; but at last, least they should loose the Picture of Sapho, they agreed upon the matter, since the one could not have it, unless the other had it also, since Sapho knew what Phaon had said unto her, she thought it expedient not to yeild so soon, but to take some particular exceptions against him, so as taking Nicanors part, she told Phaon, that perhaps he had twenty pictures which he would place before hers and there passed a very gallant discourse between them: For though he seemed to have no other design in protesting that he loved none in Scicily, but to obtain her picture, yet he made a thousand protestations of love unto her, which she understood very well, though she seemed as if she did not. Yet she did vere gallantly put him to the puzzle, when he was to answer. For (said she unto him) you think you have said enough when you have sworn that you loved none in Scicily, but beleeve me you have not; for you must swear also that you are in love with none in Mytelene.
Madam, (said he unto her, to get himself out of this great plunge) since I have seen none but you, me thinks it is not necessary to say any more then what I have already told you, for you know the course of my life since I came hither, as well as my self, I know so many lovely friends (replyed she and smiled) that though you go no further than my Chamber, yet it is not impossible, but you may be in Love.
For my particular (replyed Amithone) I shall not hinder Phaon from your picture; for I do declare that he is not in love with me: I can say so much of my self (replyed Erinne) I can say more than that, (said Athys) since I dare answer for Cydnon, and my self. Though all this should be so (said Alces,) yet all's not enough to oblige Sapho to give her picture unto Phaon, for perhaps he is in love with her, and since she will bestow her picture only upon her friends and not her Lovers, it is requisite he swear, that he is not in love with her, if he would have her picture.
As for that replyed Sapho, I wil dispence with him, for I am perswaded his heart has no such thoughts of me, as may hinder me from giving him my picture. Since it is so (said Cynegere, and gave Phaon no time to answer) there need no disputes [Page 115] upon a thing resolved upon: Therefore let the Artist begin his work to morrow: And indeed so Leon did, for he began to take the Picture of Sapho the next day.
Thus were the friends, the Lovers, and the Rivals of Sapho equally favoured, yet Phaons soule found abundance of sweetness in thinking that Sapho should know he loved her, and yet permit him her picture: But these sweet thoughts were molested by others which followed a little after: For he could not have any thoughts that Nicanor should be favoured as well as himself without a heart-burning: Yet since he did not know whether his Rivall had discovered his passion unto Sapho, he soothed up his soule with hopes. He knew also that Alces was Tysanders Confident, and they so assured him that there was no cause of any feares this way, that the picture which he was to have never troubled him.
On the other side, Sapho out of her violent inclination unto Phaon, was not sorry that Chance had given her such an innocent way of bestowing her Picture upon him: And she carryed her selfe in such an obliging manner towards him, that it was impossible she should be sorry for it.
He still keeps himself within his prescribed bounds, he hinted not the least syllable of his passion to her: But yet he made it appear unto her by so many several other wayes, that never any had a more subtle art of loving without speaking then he; and he did it so curiously without any affectation, that where soever she was, she could not choose but see it, and none else but she: if at any time she had any accident of Joy, he did so participate in it, that she judging of his love by his satisfaction, she judged aright: if on the contrary, and chance did separate him from her, he made his sorrows so discreetly appear, that the judging of his love by his Grief, she could not choose but think it great: The truth is, he spoke unto her, and was never heard; and he spoke in an Aire so discreet, so gallant, and so passionate, that she understood him as well as if he had used his tongue: if he looked upon her, his eyes told her what his heart thought, and I have observed a hundred times by a lovely blush which dyed the cheeks of Sapho, that shee understood the Lauguage of his looks: and though she had no desire to answer him, yet her faire eyes did it for her whether she would or no. When her Picture was taking, and we looked on, she would look fixedly upon Phaon: and her thoughts of him being very advantageous, she had such a languishing and amorous Aire, though without any affectation, that Nicanor not being able to endure his Rivall should be so favourably looked upon, told her, that she looked not enough upon the Painter, to have her Picture well drawn, and that if she continued in that deep study, it would be taken too melancholick.
Nicanor had no sooner said so, but Sapho blusht, for she understood well enough out of what thoughts he spoke it: Yet she knew how to give him an answer so to the purpose, that she perswaded all the company it was impossible to have her Picture taken without being subject unto those kind of musings, which proceed (said she) from the constraint of not stirring.
As for Phaon, he was so vexed at Nicanor, that he contradicted him all the rest of the day. If Nicanor said that the Painter had happily hit upon the resemblance of Saphos eyes, Phaon would say, he thought not so, but that he had much better taken the smile of her mouth. If Nicanor said the picture was too pale, Phaon would say it was rather too high-coloured: and if the Painter should have wrought according to the various opinions of these two Rivals, they had had but a bad picture of their Mistress.
But that which was most pleasant in the contradicting humour of Phaon was, that after the Picture was first rudely taken, Nicanor said that it wronged Sapho, because she was a thousand times fairer then it: Phaon durst not contradict him, because if he had, he had said the Picture was fairer then her for whom it was made; but his eyes made it evident, that he was vexed because he could not contradict him: and because he would oppose him in something, he began to flatter the Painter.
Therefore (said he) it is no wonder if no picture can be absolutely resembling the most admirable Sapho, because there are so many Angelicall features in her face, and fire such in her eyes as is unimitable: and that he was perswaded Leon had done it as well as any other Artist could, though short of the Originall. All the [Page 116] company knowing what the reason was which moved these men to thwart one another, we tooke much delight in hearing them; for since their dispute was not very bitter, because they respected Sapho more then to quarrell in her presence, we made our selves admirable good sport at them, and Sapho her selfe was not sorry to finde a new testimony of Phaons love, by his obstinate contradicting of Nicanor.
At the end of this Conversation, we had another diversion: For as we asked the Painter when he would be at leasure to take the pictures of the other Ladies, who intended to give Sapho their pictures, as she would give them hers; the Painter answered that it could not be the day following, nor the day after that, because he was very busie in finishing a great piece of Damophiles, which had abundance of work about it.
But why (said Sapho to him) is there more work about her picture than mine? because Madam (said he unto her) she will have drawn besides her, a great Table, full of books, a Lute, many Mathematicall instruments, and a thousand other things which may represent her learning and knowledg. I think also she intends her dresse to resemble the Muses, so as I assure you her peece will require much time before it be finished. For heavens [...]ake Leon (said Sapho and laughed) dresse me like unto the ragged Shepherdess Onone, that my picture may nothing resemble Damophiles: and she was so earnest upon it, that to content her, he promised to draw her in the habit of a Shepheardesse, whereas before she resembled a Nymph. After which she did so pleasantly and innocently play upon the picture of Damophile, that we ended the day very pleasantly.
But Madam, to abreviate my story as much as I can, be pleased to know, that Sapho's picture being finished, it was one of the most admirable peeces in the world. The habit of a Shepheardess did so become the Aire of her face, that never any was more amiable: so as all the Copies which shee was to give unto her friends being taken, and the pictures of Amithone, Athys, Erinne, and Cydnon being also taken, all these severall pictures were distributed: Sapho gave hers to her friends, and they gave theirs to her. But as for Nicanor, Phaon, Alces, and my selfe which were in the catalogue of her friends, we only thanked her for her most precious presents, but it was in a very different manner; for Nicanor who durst not speak of his passion, but thanked her, but under the notion of a friend, who durst not tell her that he was her Lover.
As for Phaon, he thanked her in such passionate Language, that though he did not pronounce the word Love, yet Sapho did hearken unto his Complement more then unto a Complement of amity. As for Alces, since he was still an officious Solicitor for the Prince Tysander, he told her in a low voyce, that he alone would not thank her for her precious liberality, but would stay untill a person of more merit joyned with him. So as I was the only one who payd the tribute of thanks out of pure amity, and common gratitude.
In the mean while, while Phaon being the most assiduous in his merits; hat day which he thanked her for his picture, he stayed the last with her. So as looking upon the Originall of the picture which yet lay upon the Table, he began to talk of the extravagant Damophile, who would have her picture drawn with so many Emblemes of knowledg about her: And afterwards he talked of what Sapho said, when shee desired the Painter to dresse her resemblant unto the Shepheardesse Onone.
However Madam (said he unto her) you may be sure you shall never have her destiny as you have her dress; for it is most impossible, if ever you love any, that he whom you love should forsake you. Though the Goddesses should every day have a fresh contest about their Beauties (replyed she and laughed) yet perhaps when I am in the humour of loving a Shepheard as Onone was, he should never be their Judg: and his constancy would not be put unto such a difficult Test as her Shepheard was: Oh Madam (cryed out he) if that happy Shepheard whom you shall choose have but the heart of Phaon, he will never hearken unto the promises of the fairest of all the three Goddesses, though she should shew him as much of beauty as made Paris perfidious: For really Madam, you are to me the only beauty in the whole world: I find none in it amiable but you; and my heart is so [Page 117] wholy yours, that you deny it unto all other Ladies upon earth: And I think also (added he) that you keep it from all my friends; for I am so sensible of you, that I am absolutely insensible of any else. I pray Sir (said Sapho and interrupted him) consider well what you say; for if you go beyond the degree of a friend, you must restore my picture, for I will not be upbraided with bestowing it upon any Lover. No, no Madam (said he) I can never restore your Picture, I must lose my life before any have it out of my hands: and though you should be angry, banish me, and treat me with the worst of rigour, yet as long as I can do it without any witnesse, I must tell you that I do love you, and must beseech you not to hate me; for the very truth is, I cannot live unlesse I love you, and I cannot love you without telling you; and I cannot tell you, unless [...] I conjure you to do justice unto the grandure and fidelity of my of passion by preferring it before the quality and merit of all my Rivals. I perceive Madam (continued he) that you prepare your selfe to give me an angry answers, but I am resolved to endure it with all imaginable respect, yet will not obey you if you forbid me, telling you how I love you: This is a new way (replyed Sapho): will you professe disobedience, before the command be given which it is expected you should obey? However it be Madam (said he unto her) I am grown to that height that I cannot live as I have done; You must either let me love you, or command me to dye. Since I have no right to regulate your love or your hatred (repyed she) I have nothing either to forbid or command you: and since you are a man of too many excellent parts for any to desire your death, I will lay no command upon you which shall oblige you to seek it: But I must tell you, that though I am perswaded, that without any offence of decency I may permit you to love me, yet out of generosity I ought to acquaint you, that I am the most difficult person in the world to be pleased: and therefore it is better not to engage your selfe in an affection which perhaps will not be durable, though at present it be very violent; for indeed there is in all men such a naturall propensity into inconstancy, hat though I were a thousand times fairer then I am, yet it were fond imprudence in me to believe I should find one absolutly faithfull: Yet if ever I do admit of a lover, he shal be such a one as upon whom time and absence can have no power: Indeed I would have such a one as is not to be found in the world, and therefore I advise you to content your selfe with the quality of my friend; for if I do allow you to love me, perhaps you will finde a most miserable taske of of it, or else you will give over loving me. Oh Madam (said he unto her) do what you can, I shall love you as long as any life is in mee, and the matters rests upon nothing, but to know whether you will let me tel you that I do love you, and whether there is any hopes of my being loved.
Since it is not forbidden to be curious (replyed Sapho) I should not be sorry if I knew in what manner you are able to love: and therefore without engaging my selfe unto any thing, I am contented you tell me what thoughts this passion does infuse unto you, for untill this houre I never knew any man who had not a thousand grosse conceits of this passion, which I conceive of in a more pure and delicate manner. All I can say is, Madam (replyed he) that you are so absolute Mistress of my heart, my mind, my will, and all my faculties, that you cannot but inspire my thoughts into me: Yes Madam, you need only let me know the way how you would have me love you, and you shall find in me a blind obedience unto your will; for the perfection of love is to will the same which the person loved doth will.
But Madam, without any tedious repetition of every circumstance of this Conference, I will only in short tell you, that Sapho without granting any thing unto Phaon, did not plunge him into any despair: And Phaon without obtaining any thing from Sapho, parted from her with a mind full of hopes; for though she said nothing to him that was very favourable, yet she said nothing that was displeasing; but her eyes gave her such sweet Language, that he could not choose but think himselfe very happy in the convicture: Yet he would have esteemed h [...]mselfe much more happy, had hee heard the discourse which Sapho had the next day with my sister, for she opened her very heart unto her. Ah Cydnon (said she) how ill do I wish Democedes for acquainting me with Phaon? For he still continues constant in loving me, and I am affraid I cannot refuse his affection: I finde my [Page 118] reason doth but weakly defend my heart, and that it is so little my own, that if Phaons be not more mine that it is, I am in a most sad condition.
Moreover, I know not what my design is in discovering my weakness unto you: For somtimes I think it is to the end you should chide me, and make me repent, and somtimes on the contrary, to the end you should sooth me up in my sollies. However, I am extreamly vexed at the resentments of my soul, not but that I do find much sweetness in my inquietudes; but still my reason being yet not altogether prepossessed, it doth shew me the danger unto which I am exposed, by permitting the affection of Phaon to find entertainment: For it is almost impossible he should love me as I desire to be, and as impossible I should love him less than I do.
The truth is Madam, (replyed Cydnon) that if you would have Phaon to love you, and never to think of marrying, it will be a hard matter for him to obey you, and yet he must (replyed she) if he would have me love him, he must content himself with hopes of being loved, without pretending unto any further.
These Madam, were the thoughts of Sapho, and though she had a great inclination unto Phaon, yet she bridled it a long time, and would neither suffer him to tell that he did love her, nor to hope that she would love him, and yet lived very civilly towards him, and to that point, as she did not any longer conceal her writings from him, so that he and I being one day with her alone, we importun'd her to shew us all her verses, and so earnestly, that at last she consented to shew us part of them; but since her modesty would not let her read them, she gave them unto us, and went into her closet to answer a Letter which she had received from one of her Cozens, but Madam, I am very sorry I cannot shew you what there we saw, not only because it would be exceeding delightfull unto you; but because also you might see what a strange effect, the reading of these verses wrought in the heart of Phaon.
In the mean time, since I have not these excellent verses to shew you, I must endeavour to let you understand it some other way; imagin therefore Madam, that after Sapho had given us her verses to read, and was gon into her closet, Phaon began to read an Elogy, which formerly she had made unto my sister during her long absence; he found them to be so apt, so moving, so tender, and so passionate that his heart melted at the reading them, and stopt above a hundred times to admire them. Afterwards, he read a song which she had composed upon my sisters return; where he found in few words all the raptures of joy, which the most fervent affection could infuse into an amorous soul, at the reseeing of a loved person, after a long seperation: Then Phaon read another little peice of Saphoes Genius which she had writ to express her joyes upon her unexpected meeting of a person which she loved, her expressions were so significative as it was apparant they were her own: She admirably described the sweetness of Looks, the trembling of Heart, which a sudden surprize useth to cause, the disorder of the Countenance, the agitation of the Spirits, and all the motions of a passionate Soul. But Madam, after Phaon had read these verses aloud, he read them again in a low voice to himself, and when he had done, he looked earnestly upon them without a word speaking, or ability to read others.
I being desirous to satisfie my curiosity, rowsed him out of those musings which I thought his admiration only had caused, and forced him to read those Verses which Sapho had made upon a jealous amity which had been betwixt Athys and Amithone: But Madam, This jealousy had the right Character of Love, and all the violencies which that tyrannicall passion could possible inspire into an amorous heart, were so admirably expressed, as it was absolutely impossible to mend them.
For my part I did nothing but applaud and admire the genius of Sapho, all the while Phaon was reading that peece, but as for him, he read it with attention so full of pensivenesse as I began to wonder; yet to lose no time in asking him the cause I set my self to read some Verses which Sapho had made in the Country, during a little journey of eight hours which she went alone with my Sister unto a very pleasant house of Saphoes, by these Verses she represented the felicity of two Persons who love one another, and thereby proves that they stand in need of none but themselves to live happily, describing afterwards the tendernesse of their affections; their sincerity one unto another, their delights, their recreations, their discourses, [Page 119] upon the sweetnesse of amity and friendship, and a thousand such like. And Madam, all that the most delicate love could invent of sweetness was described by these lines, though it aggravate only the sweets of amity, and never in my life, did I see any so full of Wit, so gallant, and so passionate: But as excellent as they were, I could not read them out, for Phaon who harkned unto them with extraordinary attention, interrupted mee with these words. Ah Democedes (said he unto me) Sapho is the rarest Person in the world, but I am the most miserable Lover upon Earth, and you the most subtile of all men living: As for the first of these you mention (replyed I) I concurre with you, but I do not understand the second nor the third, for why are you the most miserable Lover in the World? and why am I the most subtile of all men living? I am the most miserable Lover (replyed hee) because Sapho is most certainly in love with some one: And you the most subtle, because you assure mee shee is not in Love with any. But I beseech you (said I unto him) upon what doe you ground your opinion that she loves any one? I ground it, replyed he upon what I have read: For Democedes it is absolutely impossible she should write so passionatly and tenderly, unlesse she had experimentally been passionate.
As Phaon said so, Sapho returned, expecting a thousand applauds from Phaon, But Madam, if I had not commended her she had gone without a debt which was due unto her merit: for Phaons mind was so stung with a causelesse jealousie which sprung in his heart, that he could hardly speak. Yet after I had given him time to recollect himselfe, by my commending of Sapho: The same jealousie which caused his silence, made him break it, to see if he could discover in the eyes of this exellent Lady, whether he had any ground for his suspitions. What I see here Madam is so surprizing (said he unto her) that you must not think it strange I should not be able to expresse my admiration: Since Sir answered she) you have now been long enough acquainted with me to know that I do not love to be commended in my presence, you would do me a pleasure if you would speak no more unto me of what you have seen.
Oh Madam (said he hastily) I must needs speak something, and ask you bouldly, what you do with all that tendernesse, wherewith your heart is filled? for I have read such passionate expressions, that the heart of the Writer must needs be well experienced, and capable of Love: It is so, with the merit of my friends (replyed she and blushed) and my affection to them is so tender, that if I had as much wit as amity, I should have written more passionatly than I did. Phaon eying Sapho very attentively, he observed her blush, yet he could not divine that it was in his advantage, and that Sapho had not changed colour as she answered him, but because she secretly chid her self for having too tender thoughts of him.
But on the contrary, interpreting her blush another way, he thought that Saphoes soul was passionate for some of his Rivalls, and this beleife did raise such a disordered damp in his spirits, that he was silent upon a sudden: And if company had not come in, doubtless his silence had seemed very odd unto the fair Sapho; but since Nicanor, Phylire, and some other Ladies came in, Sapho made hast to hide those Verses which she had shewed unto us, so as she took no notice of Phaons silence.
In the mean time, perceiving his mind much unquiet, he made a sign unto me, that we should go away: and indeed, whilst Sapho was entertaining these Ladies, we went out without taking leave, and we went to walk by the Sea side. We were no sooner there, but Phaon began to complain against me; for (said he) how can it be possible you should be brother unto Saphoes best friend, and not know that she is in love? for most certainly so she is, or has been, for it most absolutely impossible that any should express themselves so passionatly, as she hath done, unless she had experimentally been possessed with that passion: There is such odd, tender, and passionate phrases in those lines which Sapho shewed us, that friendship alone could not suggest them unto her, but absolutely she either is in Love▪ or hath been, for my part (said I unto him) I have known Sapho from her Cradle; I have known all her acquaintances, I am the brother of one who knows all the secrets of her heart, and I do solemnly protest unto you, that I am most confidently perswaded, though Sapho was loved by every one that saw her, yet she never was [Page 120] in love with any; but withall let me tell you that I think her very capable of that passion, and if ever it enter into her heart, she will love with more tenderness and fidelity than ever any did: Alas Democedes (said he unto me) you do either deceive me, or else are deceived your self; for Sapho could never write those verses unless she were in love with some or other. But friend (said I to comfort his mind) if you had seen any of those lines which Sapho writ upon a victory which Pittacus obtained, you would say she can write as well upon war as upon Love, and by her writings you may as well infer that she is a souldier, as in love, Alas Democedes (said he unto me) the case is not the same, for the very reading of Homer, is enough to teach one how to speak of war, but it is Love only which can teah one how to speak of Love.
For my part, replyed I, I know not how you argue, but I am sure Homer speaks of Love as well as War, and Sapho might learn to speak as he did. Ah Democedes, (said he with a pensive look) gladly would I beleive it was you who taught Sapho to write so passionatly as she doth, for if you did not, you would say as I do, and swear that it is impossible any should write well of Love, and not be in Love, if you do but compare those expressions of Homer, with those of Sapho, you shall find a vast difference, honest Homer does better set out the friendship of Patroclus and Achilles than he doth the Love of Achilles and Priseus,: had Sapho only used such high expressions as Love doth cause, and not used them passionatly, I should have beleived as you do, that she might have writ of Love, and not have loved any.
But Democedes, she has such delicate, tender, and passionate fancies, as are impossible to proceed from any heart, but such a one as is in love, the truth is, I know it by my own experience, for when I returned unto Mytelene, I must ingenionsly confess, that I did not know what Love was, but in such a gross manner, as I should never have understood the depth of Saphoes lines: And that fair fool whom I loved in Scicily, did inspire me with thoughts only propotionable into her own wit: Therefore my love of Sapho, hath taught me to know infallibly, what is in her heart, and I have now nothing else to do, but to learn who that happy one is whom this fair one loves, and inspires her with such tender, and passionate thoughts. Therefore my dear Democedes (added he) if it was not you who taught her this Art, then help me to discover whom it is she loves, to the end I may of two courses, take the one of them; either to cure my self, or else to ruin my Rivall. Seriously (said I unto him once again) I cannot possibly beleive that Sapho is in love with any: for it is most certain, that she neither loves the Prince Tysander, nor Nicanor: For these two Lovers kept such jealous eyes upon one another, that they would have found it out, had there been any cause of suspition given them; and therefore friend, you have no cause to trouble your mind with any such fantasticall and ill grounded jealousy. I know not Democedes (said he unto me) how its possible you should think as you say: For my part, though I had seen with my own eyes, and heard with my own ears, a thousand passages which might perswade me, that Sapho either is, or hath been in Love, I could not more confidently beleive it then I do: Therefore if it be so, that you are not in love with this fair person; nor have any manner of hidden interest, in saying as you do, I conjure you to imploy all your ingenuity, in discovering what I desire to know: Cydnon loves you so dearly, and you have so much wit of your own (added he, and flattered me) that if you will, you may quickly finde out, who that happy one is, which raigns in the heart of Sapho, and inspires her with such passionate thoughts. Oh! Heavens (said he) how worthy should I think my self of envy, if the most admirable Sapho had such thoughts of me, as she has of some other; the greatest wonder to me is, that he should have the honour to make her in love with him, and that their correspondencies should not be discovered, and how is it possible he should conceal so great a felicity?
After this, Phaon used a hundred expressions, which made both his Love and his Jealousy equally apparant, and I did promise him to be as carefull in enquiring of what he desired to know, as if i had been as fully perswaded of it as he was. In the mean time, I was certain that Sapho loved none, unlesse she loved him, and that her writing so passionatly, proceeded only from a naturall tenderness of her Soul. Yet for the satisfaction of my friend, I asked my sister the question, as if I [Page 121] had doubted it: But I asked her in vain, for she did not so much as tell me that she began to love Phaon, so as telling Phaon that I could not discover any thing, he was extreamly disquieted, and confessed since, that somtimes he beleived Sapho loved me, and that her friendship unto my sister was but her umbrage to shroud her affection unto me.
In the mean time since he could not disvcoer any thing which might confirm him in his beleife, he durst not make it appear unto me, and yet he could not so constrain himself, but that I perceived his soul was in a very Hell: And indeed, this fantasticall jealousy did torment him in such a cruell manner, that all the world perceived it as well as I, that he was extreamly troubled. Sapho her self, asked him the reason of the alteration in his humour, but he durst not tell her, nor durst he speak any more to me by reason of his jealous fancies, so as he did live a melanchollick life.
Moreover, since it was not possible for him but to hear many of Saphoes verses repeated every day, this was a dayly fresh torment unto him, for he could not hear them without a tremble of heart: Again, he kept an observant eye upon all the men which used to come often unto Sapho, and also he was very vigilant over some who never came there: And jealousy did never torment any person more than it did Phaon; though he had no cause, but was the only one that was loved of all Saphoes Lovers. He knew not what to do, no [...] what to think, to clear suspitions: So as he resolved to go into the Country for a while, and try if that would cure him, both of his Love, and of his jealousy, he took up this resolution without imparting it unto any, insomuch as I was much surprized at his departure: Sapho also murmured much, that he would not bid her adue before he went, and all the rest of his friends did nothing but ask the reason.
In the mean time, so it chanced, that I had some business which called me into the country, and I went two days after Phaon, I was no sooner out of Mytelene, but the Prince Thrasibulus landed there, to leave the Prince Tysander in that place, whom the invincible Cyrus, who then named himself Artamenes, had wounded in severall places, when both falling into the sea, they had a combate together so admirably strange, and extraordinary, that the Prince Thrasibulus, who was then called the Famous Pirate, had as great a desire to save the life of his enemy, who had so bravely resisted him, as the life of a friend, who was infinitly dear unto him: But Madam, to wave this passage, the Prince Tysander returned to Mytelene yet worse of those wounds, which the eyes of Sapho had made in his heart, than of those he received from the illustrious Artamenes, who honoured the fair Sapho with a visit, which satisfied her so well, that she spoke of none but him for a long time.
But at last, the Prince Thrasibulus went away, and left Tysander there, I also returned to Mytelene, and Phaon hearing of his Rivalls being returned also; but his jealousy was it which caused his return: imagin, that perhaps it was the Prince Tysander whom Sapho loved, though none spoke of it. When he was returned, every one did chide him for his sudden departure; but he did so little hearken unto their Rallary upon it, as they gave over talking any more of it. Sapho, she gloomed, and would not speak to him. Also she being perswaded, that his solitariness was an effect of his Love unto her, she pittied him, and would not twit him with it.
In the mean time, Alces was a close Solicitor for the Prince Tysander, but all his sollicitations would not do, for she would not give him any favourable countenance: And indeed, she was not in a condition for it; for she did already love Phaon very tenderly, or at least had a strong inclination to him. Yet since the merit and the quality of Tysander did oblige her to look well upon him, she denied him her heart without any incivility, and without denying him her esteem; yet she had a great quarrel with Alces, for giving unto Tysander, that picture which she had bestowed upon himself, yet he knew so well how to excuse himself, that she did pardon him in her heart, though she alwaies said, she would never pardon him.
On the other side, Sapho having many envyers, there were some Ladies who told Tysander, that Sapho had given her Picture unto so many, only as a shroud to cover her giving it unto Phaon, and they spake so highly of this fresh Lover of Sapho, that jealousie joyned it selfe with love to torment him.
And as fewell to the fire, Tysander found that Phaon was so amiable, as he was [Page 122] apt to believe him beloved: So as both of them were a like jealous. Nicanor for his part, hee was not exempted since he was jealous both of him that was loved, and of him that was not, for he feared least the Quality of Tysander should win much upon Sapho, and he feared no lesse, least the extraordinary merit of Phaon should make him miserable.
In the mean time this beloved Lover who made all his Rivals unhappy, was no more happy then they were, for often seeing the tender and passionate Verses of Sapho, his jealousie augmented every minute. Alas (would he often say) how great would my felicity be, if in reading all these passionate expressions, I could hope to be Loved by a Person, who knows so well how to love? and who by the tendernesse of her heart does assure all those she loves of a thousand felicities, which others are ignorant of, and which the greatest beauties of the World knows not how to give.
For beauty only hath no further attraction, but what the grace of novelty doth give it. But the tendernesse of an amorous and passionate heart is an unexhaustible source of fresh delights, which spring newly every moment, & which augments love with Time, whereas commonly Time doth diminish it. But the worst is, the tendernesse of Sapho, being for another, she makes me as miserable as she makes that other happy. And all her tender and passionate Lines which would be so many joyes unto me if I were Loved: do now most horridly afflict me, because I am not loved.
Phaon then being thus restlesse, not knowing what to do, nor trusting any more in me, he thought that if he could see all that Sapho had written, perhaps he might pick something out which might satisfie him, and come to know who it was which inspired her with such tender and passionate thoughts: So as after this, he asked every one he met for the Verses of Sapho, and was importunate also with her, when he was alone with her: Also when he was with her, he used to look continually upon her table, whether she had left any papers upon it: In the end, he resolved to suborne one of Saphoes women, under colour of curiosity only to see her excellent Verses, to steale them out of her Mistress Closet, but do what he could, he could not corrupt her: But as last an accident chanced without which perhaps he had never seen them, and which caused a great disorder and restlesnes in his mind.
Be pleased to know then Madam, That the Prince Tysander being recovered, he came to see Sapho, and came with abundance of company; so as this visit affording no fit opportunities of making his complaints unto the faire Sapho, the discourse was only upon things indifferent: And since Cynegire, with whom she lived, had much repaired, and beautified her house, since the departure of that Prince, they talked very much of what she had done, especially of Saphos Closet which had been much adorned with painting since Tysanders departure. This Prince, desiring then to see it, and she not daring to deny him, she opened the Dore, and all the company went in. So that Phaon entring amongst the rest, he observed that Sapho seeing some Papers upon the Table she blusht, and hasted to put them into a Box halfe open, which her hast perhaps made her forget to shut againe. And Tysander having drawn her to the window (under pretence of a fine prospect to talk a little in private with her) she had not time to shut it close, Phaons jealousie was upon the Rack to see these papers which made her blush, and which she was so hasty to put up. So that to lose no time, whilst Tysander was talking with Sapho, and whilst others were looking upon the Pictures in her Closet, he went gently to the Box, and took out the papers. After which not being able to stay in that place he went into the Chamber againe, to see whether he ought to keep them, or put them where they were.
He no sooner opened the Paper, but he saw they were Verses, and verses written with Saphoes own hand So as not judging he could have conveniency of reading them in that place without interruption and seeing by the first words that they deserved his curiosity, hee went out of the house, and went to walk alone in a Garden which was by the Sea side, and which was alwayes open to all Commers, as soon as he was there, he opened the paper, and there read these verses, which I am [Page 123] now going to shew you, for I had them, as he had them that is, without the name of that Person for whom they were made, as you may perceive by the Copy.
My paine is great; extreame is my delight:
I muse all day; I sleep not in the night:
To say I am in Love, I cannot yet,
But yet I'me sure, this doth resemble it.
One only object takes up all my mind;
In nothing else can I a pleasure find:
If this be it, to have a wounded heart,
Ther's none can be more sensible of smart.
My soule is set on fire by certaine Rayes;
The Sun lesse pleaseth in the chillest dayes:
No eye as yet doth see my flame; but sure
Fire has no heat in't more then I endure.
When I see—then my soule's at ease
He out of sight, ther's nothing can me please:
Perhaps he is my vanquisher; but yet,
I will be ignorant of my defeat.
All that he sayes, seemes full of charms to mee;
And in his silence, no felicity,
Hast thou laid down thy Armes, oh heart so brave?
I cannot tell, but I believe I have.
After the Queen of Pontus had read these lines, she restored them unto Democedes, conjuring him to tell her what operation these verses had in the spirit of Phaon.
I understand since from himselfe, Madam (replyed Democedes, and continued his relation) that these verses did raise such a storm in his heart, that He was halfe an hour before he could begin to read them againe, though he had a great desire unto it: for though he did believe that Sapho either was then in Love, or had been in love, yet he did not believe it so confidently, but he was strangly surprized to see it under her own hand: But at last beginning to read these verses over againe, and finding them more amorous the second time then the first, he was so transported with furie, that he thought to have torne them all in peeces and thrown them into the Sea. And as he was just ready to doe it, a fancy came into his head which prevented him, which was, to consider whose Name of all those who used to frequent Saphoes company, did most concurre and sute with the verse, in that blank which was left for it. For he conceived (notwithstanding his furie) that if Sapho would have given him any other name then his owne, she would have writ it down in her verse. So he concluded, and rationally, that the name which would fit the verse was the name of him for whom they were made: therefore looking againe upon those foure verses where it was written.
When I see—then my soule's at ease;
He out of sight, ther's nothing can it please:
Perhaps he is my Conqueror, but yet,
I will be ignorant of my defeat.
He began to consider what name would make up the verse: but he was there at a great puzzle. For that of Tysander was too long a syllable: That of Nicanor the like, and mine was longer then either. Phaon fond, that the name of Alces was the just length for the verse, but his love of the faire Athys was so well known unto all the world, and it was also well known that he was Tysanders confident, that [Page 124] this made no impression upon his mind. Afterwards, he examined the Names of all the men of Rank which used to visit Sapho, but found none which fitted the verse, because they were all too long, also he examined the names of all those who did not visit her, neversomuch as thinking of his own. For since he knew that Sapho had made those verses which caused his first jealousie before he knew her, he never dreamed that those which had caused him so much sorrow, would have caused much joy, had he known the cause: and he was farre from any such thoughts as that he had never examined whether his own name did fit the verse, when I accordingly came unto him. But Madam, the wonder was, to see Phaon, who since his fantasticall jealousie looked very much a squint at me, now become very kind againe, because my name did not fit the verse, so as he accosted me with his accustomed freedome; and took me for his confident as familiarly as if I had never caused any of his jealousie. And he no sooner saw me, but comming to me, since we are both in the wrong (said he unto me and embraced me) I beseech you my dear Democedes, let us forget what's past, and begin our amity a new, for now I plainly see I was in the wrong in thinking it was you who had taught Sapho to know all the delicacies of Love, and I can make it appear unto you that you were in the wrong to believe, she was not in love. Is it possible (said I unto him) That you should have such clear testimonies of it, as cannot be doubted? You shall quickly see that (said he) by reading these verses which I stole from her, you know her stile and her hand, and happily may guesse at the name of him for whom they were, made, for my mind is so full of perplexities, that I confesse I cannot guesse at him; After this, I begin to read Saphoes verses, but in reading them I found at the very first, that the name of Phaon fill'd up the verse, and I remembred so many passages which had made me believe that Sapho did not hate him, as I made no doubt but that they were made for him, and I did the more believe it, because I could not find any name except that of Alces which did run right in verse, and as for Alces I knew it could not be him, so as intending to comfort him, for my part (said I) I see no such difficulty in finding out a name which will fitly fill up the blank in the verse, and I am confident the fair Sapho did intend it thus.
When I see Phaon then my soul's at ease
He out of sight, ther's nothing can me please
Perhaps he is my vanquisher, but yet
I will be ignorant of my defeat.
Ah Democedes (cryed he out) Tis true indeed, my name does fit the verse, but the verse fits not me, and I cannot choose but wonder how you should so suddenly think upon my name. As for my part, did not so much as think upon it whether or no my name was Phaon. However this accident ads no comfort unto me, for all these excellent, tender, amorous and passionate Copies of the faire Saphoes were all written before I ever knew her, and therefore it is to be thought they were made for some other happy one who has the felicity to teach her all the tendernesse of Love, in making himself Loved.
For my part (replyed he) I know not whether I be mistaken; but me thinks those Characters do not look as if they had been long writ. But I am the most mistaken man in the world if these verses were not made for you, and if you in lieu of being the most miserable, are not yet the most happy Lover in the world.
How? (said he) do you think Sapho could love me and I not perceive it? and that a man who looks upon her every minute; observes all her Actions and all her words, and does all he can to guesse her thoughts, should not he see she loves him? Ah Democedes, this is impossible, and it is but too true, that these verses were never made for me. As he said so, we heard a great noise of many people talking, and turning about, we saw comming towards us, the Prince Tysander, leading Sapho who had with her all her friends, Nicanor, Alces and many others. So as restoring back the verses unto Phaon, he hastily put them in his pocket. But Sapho having observed that Phaon left them abruptly, she began to chide him, and chid him in such a gallant manner for preferring solitude before such good company, that he was obliged to walk along with them, and so we both did, though we had [Page 125] no great fancy unto it, for she was very pensive, and I had some other businesse. But at last, we came unto the end of the Garden which was towards the Sea, where we found a Barque, into which we went, and chance placing Phaon very neere Tysander and Sapho, he plainly saw the verses were not made for that Prince, for Sapho did not answer him with so much as one favourable look, but was so cold and hollow towards him, as it was easie to see there was no great sympathy of hearts. In the mean time, he was so taken up with his own thoughts, that he had no share in the generall conversation.
That which I had said unto him comming often into his imagination he often sweetly flattered up himself, but presently after beginning to think upon the amorous expressions which Sapho used, and that they were written before he knew her, his jealousie revived; So as passing from hopes to fears, he entertained himselfe, and talked unto none, he fell into a deep study and leaning over the Barque, hee looked attentively upon that bubbling froth which is alwayes at the Prow of those Barques which saile swiftly. Phaon was too dear in the esteem of Sapho, for her not to observe his pensivenesse, so as she both took notice of him, and caused others to take notice also. But amongst the rest, Tysander who knew Phaon was in love with Sapho, and that Sapho did not hate Phaon, he kept a very observant eye upon him, endeavouring to find out, why he was so melanchollick, and if it were possible to find what the cause was, because he was in Saphoes disfavour, or else whether it was only because he was too much in love with her. So as looking upon him no less then upon Sapho, It unhappily fel out that Phaon in taking something out of his pocket, not knowing what he did, and without interrupting his musing, he puld out Saphoes verses also which fell at the feet of Tysander, who seeing them fall, stoop'd and unperceivedly took them up: But Madam after he had read them, he was no lesse pensive then Phaon, for in a thought that he was his Rivall, he feared to find that which he would not have sought, but in hopes not to find it.
In the mean time, Cydnon seeing that Phaons musing troubled Sapho, she began to speak unto him, and and aske him the cause, which you may well imagine hee would not tell her. But Sapho's verses running much in his mind, he put his hand in his pocket to feele whether they were there; though he doubted it not; for it is very customary for those in Love to do many things which they would not do, were their reason free: Phaon then finding them not in his pocket, was strangely amazed when he saw that he had them not: Yet he durst not expresse his wonder, nor say he had lost them; for if he had, he had acquainted Sapho with his theevery, and should have been extreamly ashamed. Moreover, not knowing certainly whether he lost them in the Garden, or in the Barque, or whether they were faln into the Sea, he durst not make Hue and Cry after his losse, especially for Sapho's sake, and her concernment: For though he was very jealous, yet he was very respective of her, and her glory was more considerable unto him, than his owne tranquility: so as he contented himselfe with looking all about him, not telling what he looked for: but as he was very earnest in it, though he did endeavour to do it without any affectation, Tysander knew very well that what his Rivall had lost did wring him at the heart, and that what he had found would perhaps be a sad satisfaction of his doubts. But at last, our Maritime diversion being ended, we waited upon the Ladies home, and conducted also the Prince Tysander unto his Lodging; who as soon as he was there, went into his Closet, opened the Paper which he found, and read those verses which troubled him, as much as they had his Rivall.
But Madam, he was not so much puzzled as his Rivall was, to find out the name which was to fill up the imperfect verse; for he never doubted, but that Phaon was the name, and he beleived also, that Sapho had given these verses unto his Rivall, with her own hand, and that the knot of affection between them, was already so fast tyed, that nothing could unloose it: You may imagin Madam, how vexatious were these thoughts unto him, and he said since, that never any thing in his life did more trouble him: Phaon on the other side was far from any quietness of mind; for maugre his jealousy, he was extreamly sensible of Saphoes reputation, who was in as great a perplexity as he was: For Madam, this excellent Lady did so repent [Page 126] of leaving those verses in danger of being seen, that as soon as ever she returned home, she went into her Closet with intentions to burn them, and never to make any of the like nature again; but shee was much surprized and afflicted, when shee could not finde them in the place where she put them: She would not trust unto her memory, but searched in all other places, where there was any possiblity of their being, but at last concluding that questionless they were stoln from her, she was so extreamly afflicted, that never in all her life she was the like.
However, in this perplexity of spirit, she could not imagin a wish more sweet, then that it might be Phaon who had taken away these verses, though she was much ashamed he should ever see them, for being ignorant of his jealousy, she imagined he would apply them unto himself, but though she wish'd it, yet she could not hope it was Phaon who had them, because she saw him so sad, she could not suspect him.
And remembring that he went from her house immediatly after Tysander came into her Closet, she could not think he had time enough to commit the theft, so that not knowing whom to suspect, she was infinitely troubled.
On the other side, Tysander seeing by these Verses that Sapho loved Phaon, and not doubting but that his Rivall had received these verses from the hand of his Mistress, and that the knot of their affections was undissolvably tyed, he resolved to overcome his passion, but to carry his respects of Sapho as far as possible: And though Alces was his Confident, yet he did not shew him these verses.
Tis true, he was three whole dayes in consulting upon this resolution, during which time he did not see Sapho, who for her part avoided all company as much as she could for fear of hearing of these verses.
On the other side, Phaon durst not see her; for he perceived, it would be impossible for him not to give her many testimonies o [...] his troubles, pensiveness, and jealousy. Nicanor, he was so puzled to finde out the reason why these two Rivals and his mistress should be all so sollitary at one time, that he was no less unquiet than they were.
But at last, Tysander striving with himself, he was Conquerour, and sent unto Sapho, to desire a private Conference, about some businesse of concernment; Sapho not daring to deny him by reason of his quality, consented; but it was with regret, because she feared his business was about the Verses: Not but that she thought it impossible it should be him who took the Verses out of her Closet, for she had him alwaies in her eye, but her fear was, some other had given them unto him.
In the mean time, this hour of audience being come, Tysander went to Sapho, without any one to wait upon him; but in Lieu of accosting her as usually, he saluted her with a faint, and serious civility, though with much respect, which did infer unto her, that he had some angry business to impart: None but they being in the Chamber, Tysander had the freedome of talk, so as loosing no time, I come now Madam, (said he unto her) to render you the greatest testimony of my love that ever any did, by restoring unto you those verses which Phaon lost, and which you gave unto him: And truly, any other besides my self would in revenge of your cruelty, have shewed them unto all the world; but my respects of you are so great, that notwithstanding your rigour, I am afraid to displease you, and would gladly preserve your esteem, though I cannot obtain your affection.
In saying so, Tysander gave Sapho those verses which she made for Phaon his Rivall, he gave them open, and let her see how he had supplyed the blanck with the name of Phaon. You may well imagin Madam, that Sapho did not take these verses without a blush, yet after a little recollecting her self, she attempted to do two things at once: The first, absolutely to dis-engage Tysander from her affection: And the second, to perswade him, that these verses were made, neither for Phaon in particular, nor for any other in generall.
But all her Sophistry, her Rethorick, and her Arguments, could not reach half of her desires, for though she did dis-engage Tysander from loving her, yet she could not make him beleive, that these verses were made for any other then Phaon. She could not perswade him, but that she gave them unto Phaon with her own hand though she told him true, when she said he stoln them from her. No, no Madam; [Page 127] (said Tysander to her) you can never perswade me to it, for she who can give a heart, may well give verses; one may somtimes give a heart (replyed Sapho) and yet give nothing else: And this circumstance which you so much undervalue, is so considerable to me, that there is no comparison between my making verses for Phaon, and giving them unto him with my own hand: Suppose I had a very strong inclination to him, it would be no such wonder, if I should tell my self the thoughts of my own heart; and though it be a weakness, yet it thwarts not the Laws of modesty, since none should know it but my self: But Sir, you have done me so great a wrong in accusing me, of giving these verses unto Phaon, and you think so strangly of me, that I wonder you have not divulged them unto all the word, for if I were so indiscreet as to give these verses unto Phaon, I were also unworthy of so much discretion in you.
However, I give you thanks for restoring them, and conjure you to tell me truly how you came by them, for since I hold no particular correspondency with Phaon, I cannot know it from any but your self: Oh Madam, replyed Tysander, my actions do not merit this incredulity: yet since perhaps Phaon will not tell you that he lost those verses which he should so carefully have kept, I will tell you that I saw them fall out of his pocket, that evening when we took the air upon the Sea, and I took them up, not knowing they included the sentence of my death. Phaon was so sad that evening (replyed she) as me thinks you may be perswaded, I did not give these verses unto him, and that he did not think they were made for him. For to tell you truly, the conquest of Saphoes heart, is not so easie a matter, as that he should have the vanity, to think he hath done it: or to be joyed at it.
However it be Madam, (said Tysander) I am most confidently perswaded that Phaon is as much loved as I am hated, and if I had not more respective thoughts of you than ever any ill treated Lover had, I should find means how to send back Phaon into Scicily.
But since it would be in vain to banish him out of this isle, because I cannot banish him out of your heart, I will not, Madam, be your Tyrant, after I have been your Slave: But Madam, in acknowledgment of my respects, I beseech you be sincere, and ingeniously confess the true state of your Soul, as I have▪ mine unto you, to the end I may leave you at rest, and endeavour to recover mine. Sir, (replyed Sapho and blusht) if I were able to give you my affection, as I am my esteem, doubtless I should, in acknowledgment of your generosity; but to be sincere with you Sir, there hath been ever such a powerfull obstruction in your design of obtaining my Love, that do what I can, I shall never be able to remove it: And after this Sir, be satisfied, and ask me no more, for since I cannot love you, it concerns not you whether ever I love Phaon or no. I do not ask the question for any further clearing of my knowledge Madam, (replied he) for I do not at all doubt it; but I ask it only, that I may once more in my life commend you, I beseech you Sir (replyed Sapho) do not persist in a thing so unjust, and impertinent; but content your self, that I tell you, I cannot love you, and that I do not perceive in Phaon the same impossibility of loving him, as I do of you: That is enough Madam, (said he and rise up,) to make me the most miserable of men, yet since I am fully resolved to respect you for ever, I will not do what I am able to break down violently that wall which seperates me from your affection: I will only wish in parting from you that you may hereafter know, though you have given your heart unto the most accomplished of all your Lovers, yet you have not given it unto the most faithfull, and most amorous.
After this Madam, Tysander, went away, but with so much sadness in his looks, that Sapho, as insensible as she was to him, did feel her heart was a little moved. But since there were then such things in agitation. as did move it much more, she thought more of Phaon, than Tysander, and she had a fresh subject for those thoughts, by a visit which my sister made unto her.
For be pleased to know Madam, hat I seeing Phaon in such a gulph of sorrows, and having my self a great desire to know truly whether these verses which had caused so much disorder, were made for Phaon, as I thought they were, I went unto Cydnon, with whom I lived; not only as with a most dear sister, but as with a most faithfull friend, and as a great secret, I told her of my friends jealousy; of [Page 128] the adventure of the verses, and conjured her to tell me whether they were made for Phaon. If they were made for any one, replyed she, certainly they were made for him: but Brother, I know nothing of them, nor did Sapho ever shew mee the verses you speak of. However (said I unto her) the poor Phaon who thinks they were made for some other, is so extreamly jealous and sad, that I think he will dye, unless you help me to assist & comfort him. Truly brother (replyed she) it is not an easie matter to be done, for Sapho who seldome keeps any secret from me, never mentioned this adventure: And I do not see how I can speak unto him unlesse he speak unto me: 'Tis true (added she) that I have hardly seen her two minutes since we were upon the Sea: But I will promise you to see Sapho, and do Phaon any good Office I can.
After this I did aggravate the jealousie of this Lover as much as I could, purposely to make them pitty his misery: but the more I spoke, the more I saw shee had a mind to laugh; for she knowing all Sapho's thoughts of Phaon, she was so tickled to thinke that he himselfe should be the beloved Rivall which so much afflicted him, as for her heart she could not forbeare. Cruell sister (said I unto her) I did not acquaint you with the miseries of my friend for you to laugh at them, I assure you he deserves more pitty then laughter. If I thought so brother (replyed she) I should not laugh: But since I know Phaon has no Rivall whom be need to fear, I must confesse I cannot choose but laugh at his ill-grounded sorrows: For it is as good sport as possible can be, to observe the follies of the wisest men, when they are once engaged in a businesse of this nature: And therefore I pray pardon this naturall disposition of mirth, when I meet with such occasions as this, and believe that I will do Phaon all the offices of a friend I can. And indeed Madam, as soon as she was gone, she went unto Sapho, and came thither about a quarter of an hour after Tysander went away: so as Sapho's mind being ful, and desirous to unburthen it unto her sister, she called her into her Closet: and giving orders that none should come unto her, she conjured Cydnon to pardon her for with-holding a secret from her three dayes together; for truly my deare Cydnon (said Sapho unto her, after she had told her the adventure) never any thing in all my life did so cruelly vexe me: and nothing was more intolerable to me, then that Tysander should see any verses of such a nature: nor nothing more terrible to me, than to think that Phaon should have read them.
For my part (continued she) I do not think I shall be able to see him: and I have seen none these three dayes, purposely to avoid meeting with him; not but that I sometimes wished it might be he who should find these verses; but I wished it when I thought he had them not: Yet now it is otherwise with me, and I had rather a hundred others had seen them then Phaon, for how dare I ever look him in the face after such a peevish adventure? The truth is, I have reason to fear, that his trusting unto the affection which I beare unto him, will now talk to him with lesse respect, and will think his Conquest so easie, that it is no glory unto him. If you have any cause of fears (replyed Cydnon) it is not at any thing you have said: And to testifie how absolutely I am devoted yours, Madam, I will betray a secret unto you which a Brother hath entrusted mee withall. And acquaint you that Phaon is the most miserable, and the most jealous of all men living He is not then in Love with me (replyed Sapho and blushed) he is more in Love with you (replyed Cydnon) than ever any was: but he is so jealous, and in such a fantasticall manner, as I know not how you can cure him. This Aenigma is so obscure, answered Sapho, that it passeth my understanding when I have expounded it (replyed she) you will better understand it, but your astonishment will not be a jot the lesse: For on that day when you shewed Phaon and Democedes your verses, Phaon found in them such passionate expressions, as he concluded most certainly you either were in Love, or had been, and that it was impossible any living should write so tenderly, unlesse they had been in Love; so as this odd fancy being in his head, he hath since suffered most incredible afflictions, and hath done nothing else but hunt out after this supposed Rivall, who hath inspired you with such tendernesse in your verses.
But I beseech you Cydnon (said Sapho and interrupted her) tell mee seriously whether all this you tell me be not some quibble of your own wit? No no, replyed [Page 127] she, there is nothing truer then what I tell you: For the miserable Phaon is so possessed with this imagination, that in lieu of applying them unto himselfe, or rejoycing at his good fortune, he is carefully examining what names sutes best with that blanck which was left in a verse: and for my part, I have such merry Conceptions upon this passage, that did I not see you very pensive, I should laugh heartily: However I beseech you seriously to find out some way how to cure poor Phaon of his jealousie; for my Brother represents him in such a miserable condition, that he deserves some help and succour. I perceive then (replyed Sapho) that Democedes hath seen these cruell verses which make me so ashamed: And that though I have told Phaon a hundred times, if ever I admitted of any Lover, he should never have any Confident; yet I see that I am like to have as many Confidents of my weaknesse as there are men in Mytelene. Not but that I know very well (continued she very obligingly) Democedes is very discreet: but for all that Cydnon confesse the truth, did not he guesse at the name better then Phaon? He did not tell me (replyed she) but I assured him that either these Verses were intended for none, or else that they were intended for Phaon. For he being his particular friend, I thought thereby the more to engage his discretion, and to keep him from further enquiry into a businesse of which I promised to give him an accompt.
But Cydnon (replyed Sapho) what accompt can you give him which will be advantageous unto me? For to tell him that I love Phaon, is horrid unto me: To swear that I love him not, will make him believe I love another: and to protest that I love none (considering the fancy which Phaon hath in his head) will augment his jealousie and not justifie me: However I wish I could find out an expedient which would prevent his jealousie which would preserve his affection, which would hide mine from Democedes, and which would only let Phaon guesse at mine: For my part (replyed Cydnon) considering the language of my brother, I think it will be a very hard matter to cure Phaon of his jealousie, unlesse you will acquaint him with your tendernesse of him: Fye fye Cydnon (replyed Sapho) I had rather he should continue eternally jealous, than that he should see all my weaknesse.
Then you care not for preserving his heart (answered Cydnon) for you know better than I do, that long jealousie smothers love. The foundation of Phaons jealousie hath so little solidity in it (replyed Sapho) that I cannot thinke it will last long. Nay on the contrary (answered my sister) since it hath no foundation, it is harder to drive away: As for example, if Phaon were positively jealous of Nicanor, then there no way but to treat Nicanor ill, and see him no more, to make his jealousie cease: but since hee is jealous onely because you have written your verses in such tender and passionate straines as might perswade one a little that you are in love, it is impossible you should ever cure him; but by giving him some cause to think you have none but him, and to let him think that the verses he hath seen belongs to him. As I did guesse at his affection to me before he told me of it (answered shee) so let him guesse if he can at the tendernesse I have to him: For if he do not, he shall never know it for me. But yet (said Cydnon) must he not know any thing more concerning that verse which wants a name? Is it not enough (replyed she) that he sayes that the names of all others (who are in any likelihood of loving me) does not sute with it, and that his doth? is not this enough to make him understand, that either they were made for none, or they were made for him?
If his fancy were not prepossessed (replyed Cydnon) doubtless what you say were sufficient: but as the constitution of his mind is, if the conservation of Phaon be dear unto you, something else must be done, and you must permit my brother at the least to give him some comfort and hopes in his misery. Provided hee could doe it without giving any suspitions of my consent (replyed Sapho) Democedes may tell him what he will to perswade him I am not in Love with any; for I had rather Phaon should think I love him, then to think I will permit any other to love me.
After this, Sapho told Cydnon all that Tysander said unto her: Thus you see (said she unto her) that Phaons Rivall is better informed of my sorrows for him, then [Page 130] he himself is. The truth is Cydnon (continued she) my fate is very strange, for Tysander knows that I do love Phaon, and he knows it so certainly that he hath abandoned me upon it: And Phaon on the contrary is ready to quit me, because he thinks I love another and not him, so as being, (as if it were) a Rivall, unto himselfe, he doth himself more hurt then all his Rivalls, and hath brought in unto the most strange conjecture that ever a person of my humour could be. For women ought never to say that they are in Love, but only that they are loved. Therefore Cydnon we must submit the adventure unto fortune. But take heed Madam, replyed she, you do not repent of what you have said. If I do repent of what I have said (replyed she) I shall not do any more then what I have done a thousand times since I first knew Phaon, for I have repented I ever desired Democedes to bring me acquainted with him, I repented that ever I spoke unto him, that ever I loved him, and that ever I composed those unhappy verses which caused this last disorder, and to tell you my thoughts plainly I repent of all I ever said or did since I was first taught to speak; And if I should keep Phaon by any endeavours which are unworthy of my self, I should repent eternally, and to tell you truely if I should lose him by my too scrupulous severity I should repent it till my death.
This Madam was the temper of Saphoes mind when my Sister talked with her, so as knowing very well that she would give her consent unto Phaons cure of jealousie; by any wayes which might not engage her too farre, she would presse her no further, and as soon as she saw me, she told me that Phaon was to blame, that I should advise him to see Sapho as soon as he could, and that most certainly he had no reason to feare any Rivalls. But Madam, the strangest passage in all this renconuter was, that Saphos mind was taken up with so many various thoughts, that she never thought of any anger against Phaon, for being so bold as to take these verses out of her Closet.
However Cydnon transacted so well with me, and I with Phaon, that though he did not positively believe all I told him, yet he resolved to go unto Sapho, and to go with intentions of telling her the very bottom of his soule: yet in the interim, a chance happened which changed his mind.
For an universall report went about all Mytilene, that Tysander was resolved to see Sapho no more. Phaon imagining that the Prince would never have quitte▪ her, unlesse he had discovered that she was in love with some one, his, jealousie renewed, and broke of his first design. Not but that he had reason to believe of Tysander as he did, but he did not know that it was himself who dis [...]engaged that Prince from the love of Sapho: But at last after he had passed over two dayes in this uncertainty, he resolved again to go unto Sapho, and discover unto her the▪ grandure of his Love, and the violency of his jealousie: and indeed he went unto her the next day so early, that he found none with her.
It is an easie matter to tell you Madam, the resentments of these two persons: For Sapho was ashamed of her own weaknesse and pittied the weaknesse of Phaon: and this Lover had so many severall resentments, as it is impossible to represent them, for he told me that his love and his jealousie re-doubled, and yet also he had some reviver of his hopes. But at last, having saluted each other with equall agitation of spirits, Phaon asked Sapho pardon for being so long from her. But Madam, (said he) I know not, whether after I have asked pardon for not seeing you, I should also ask it for seeing you: For I am come with a resolution to talk of so many things, as that I am afraid of talking something which shall displease you, though I am resolved to say nothing that shall be unworthy of that love and respect which I have unto you.
Sir, replyed she, we have had so few occasions of any quarrells since we were acquainted, that I know not what you can say otherwise. I must ask you Madam, replyed he, whether I was not much to blame in being the most jealous man alive? I must conjure you to talk sincerely with me; I must beseech you to have compassion upon my weaknesse; To examine well the passion which caused it, to ponder all the reasons which may excuse my jealousie, and if it be possible, not to drive me unto despaire.
All these, replyed Sar [...], do argue, that there is such a great disorder in your mind, as I should out of pitty do that, which in reason I ought not to do, if I did [Page 131] hearken unto the exact Rules of Just [...]ce and decency. And therefore I will harken unto your complaints, and let you speak of your jealousie though I cannot endure you should speak of your Love. Speak then Phaon, (said she againe unto him) and tell me of whom you are jealous? I know not Madam (said he unto her) but I am sure, that sometimes I think I have all imaginable causes. For Madam you have such passionate expressions in your writings, as you must of necessity have been sensible of them yourself. And you have made such verses which I was so bold as to steal away, as have cost me a million of sighs, and perhaps will cost me my life, if you of your goodnesse will nor apply a remedy to cure me: But what remedy (said Sapho) will cure you? you must perswade me (replyed he) that you have loved none, and that if ever you love any it shall be the unfortunate Phaon. But Madam, since this is an impossibility, I will not ask it, but will possitively ask you the true state of your soule, and will ask you the name of him for whom you made those verses which I was so presumptuous as totake out of your Closet.
To answer in generall unto all you ask, (replyed she) I must tell you, that I did write so passionatly, because naturally, I have a tender soule, and I assure you afterwards, that if I have made any jealous, yet certainly it ought not to have been you. For I will tell you for mine own honour, as much as for your tranquility, that I loved none, the same day you came unto Mytelene, and I assure you further, that I have done nothing since which should make you jealous: And to testifie the truth of what I say, I will give you leave to observe all my actions, all my words, and all my very looks, and if after that you find any cause of jealousie, then be so, even unto furie; and be perswaded that in permitting you to be jealous I have done more for you, then ever I did for any.
Since Madam, you cannot permit me to be jealous (replyed he) unlesse you permit me to be in love, I must give you most humble thanks for that permission, as for the greatest favour in the world; yet I should be much more obliged, if you would be pleased to tell me whom you are pleased I should love, then to give me leave to be jealous? And therefore, tell me Madam, I beseech you, whether I may hope, that you will ever be so tender unto me as you know most admirably well how to expresse? should I not be too presumptuous in pretending unto those verses which so cruelly have made me jealous? But Madam, before I can believe such a glorious assurance, you must be very sincere: you must tell me more then what yet you have; you must shew me your heart, as I have shewed you mine; and you must not keep back any secret of your soule, before I can know you. Though you have loved one before I had the honour to be known unto you, yet I have no reason to complaine: Not but that I wish with a most passionate desire, that I were the first who entred into your heart: but yet if that happinesse be not possible however I shall esteem my self very happy in being the successour of that most happy Rivall.
Speak then, Divine Sapho, and tell me whether I must be jealous? whether I must be happy? or whether I must be miserable? and to tell me in two fatall words, whether must live or dye? Phaon expressed himself in an Aire so full of reverent respect, he had in his voice such a kind of Rethoricall tone; and hee looked upon Sapho in such a submisse and passionate manner, that this faire one not being able treat such a Lover ill whom she had a mind to preserve, she spoke unto him so discreetly that without telling him she loved him, she did re-animate his hopes, did dissipate his jealousie, augment his passion, and fild his soule full of joy.
Indeed these two Lovers, who in beginning their discourse knew hardly what to say, and who had a thousand thoughts in in their hearts which they thought should never be revealed, yet at last imparted all, and made such a sincere exchange of all their most secret thoughts, that all in the heart of Sapho, passed into the soule of Phaon, and all that was in the soule of Phaon passed into the soule of Sapho. Also they agreed upon the Articles and Conditions of their Love. For Phaon promised Sapho which desired it, never to desire any thing of her, but the enjoyment and possession of her heart: And she promised him also, never to receive any unto her heart, but him.
After this, they told each other all the particular passages of their Lives. And [Page 132] ever since Madam, there hath been such an admirable union between these two persons as never were their equalls seen; the love of Phaon augmented with his happiness, and the affection of Sapho became more violent, by the acquaintance she had of the greatness of her Lovers Love. Never were two hearts seen more united; nor ever did Love joyn two together, with more purity and zeale.
They communicated unto each other all their thoughts, and they understood one another without telling them; they saw in each others eyes, the motions of of their hearts, and saw them all so tender and passionate unto each other, that the more they looked, the more they loved: yet the peace between them was not so sollidly established but they had some amorous wars, and though they loved as much possible, yet they would sometimes complain that they loved not enough, but there was never any such civill wars as did disturb the Halcyon Serenity of their Loves.
In the mean time, ever since this conjunction of hearts between Phaon and Sapho, Nicanor hath been in a miserable condition, and Tysander esteemed himself as happy as prudent, in dis-engaging himself from his passion. The truth is, he cured himself by another beauty; for Pittacus being resolved to marry him unto the fait Alcionide, he went to Gnides, where she was, and where he fell as much in love with her as with Sapho, but for his love to the one, he still preserved much esteem for the other.
In the mean time, Charaxes the brother of Sapho, who took it ill she should refuse the affection of Tysander, and admit of Phaons, went to travell, and departed without taking his leave, or bidding adieu to any. On the other side, though Nicanor did still most passionately love Sapho, and horridly hated Phaon, yet he offered no violence unto either: For such was the admirable discretion of Sapho, in keeping every one within the limits of their due respects, and in uniting the most divided spirits, that though she could not make them perfect friends, yet she kept them from down right quarrelling. All this while Phaon being assured, that he was preferred before all his Rivalls, he was not jealous of any: And indeed he was highly happy in it; for Sapho caused so many to be in love with her, that Alces himself, as deeply in love as he was with the fair Athys, began to waver and divide his heart: And except Themistogenes, who could not love any which did not resemble Damophile, there was not one man of any soul or quality, who had not some sparks of Love unto Sapho.
For my part, being Phaons choice, and particular friend, I ever defended my self against her Arrows, and was never down right in love with her, but I had so much affection unto her, as kept me from loving any other.
In the mean time, this universall approbation of Sapho, incensed all the Ladies who pretending unto high beauty, had hardly any adorers, whilst Sapho, whose modesty would not let her think she had any, was invironed with a croud of them. But the wonder was, that this most rare woman, without the least digression from that fidelity she owed unto Phaon, did still maintain her soveraignity in the souls of all her Lovers: For behaving her self so discreetly, that none of them ever said any thing unto her, which she would not have them, she never had any cause to complain against them, and by consequence had no cause to banish them from her: Not but that Phaon would some days complain a little against such a croud about her, but when she gave him to understand; that prudence required he should hide himself among the croud, because if she should banish them, she should banish him also, or else her glory would suffer diminution, then Phaon was contented to endure all the Lovers of Sapho, who durst not appear under any other notion than that of friends.
For my part, I have wondred a hundred times at that power, which Sapho had over her slaves: For though there was not one of them, who did not know that she loved Phaon, and Phaon only, yet there was not one of them who was out of hopes, though she gave them not the least ground: And though they all hated Phaon, yet they neither durst, nor could hurt him: Nor did they jar among themselves, for since they could be jealous of none but Phaon only, they grew into a kind of confidence together.
Thus, the Loved, the Lovers, the Lover loved, and the ill treated Rivalls, all were together, without the least contest that was troublesome unto our society; [Page 133] and which was most admirable, Sapho in the midst of this croud, did find out waies to give Phaon a thousand testimonies of her affection to him, and unperceived to sacrifice all his Rivalls unto him. Thus, without doing any thing against the exact rules of civility, and without any allurements, Sapho had the glory to have an infinite number of adorers, and without any of that severity of those faithfull Lovers, who constrain themselves so much, that they almost become savage, Phaon and she enjoyed all the sweets of a most pure and innocent Love; for they were none of those who as soon as they are certain of their mistresses, and servants, do use to renounce almost all manner of Gallantry, as if they had been married many a year, for Phaon was as Courtly as humble, and assidious, as if he had yet to conquer that noble heart which he already enjoyed: And Sapho was as exact, and as regularly civill and complaisant, as if her conquest were uncertain. Moreover, Feasts, Pleasures, and Joyes, did inseperably follow them: And though they were most assured of each others esteem, yet they did strive with all imaginable cares to preserve it.
This Madam, was the life which Phaon and Sapho lived, whilst they were happy: yet as the Empire of Love is as subject unto great revolutions, as others are; so this calme, and silken peace, which was in the heart of Sapho, was not perpetuall, though it seemed as if it would be eternall For most certain it is, that never Lover had a more perfect heart of expressing much love, then Phaon had, he never saw any in Mytelene, but Sapho: And indeed it may almost be said, that he did scarcely see those who were friends unto his Mistress, though he was continually with her, for his eyes and mind were so wholly fixed upon the admired Sapho, as she could not doubt, but that she was the only soul of his thoughts, wheresoever he was. And since there is nothing more obliging, than to make a difference of a person in the midst of a great company, he knew so well how to oblige Sapho this way when any occasions were offered, as I never in my life, saw his like. Moreover, when he was with her, he seemed so happy, so contented, and so sensible of the least of her favours, as shee having absolutely the most tender soul in the world, did think there was nothing desirable which was not in her Lover: She was infinitely charmed with the delicacy of his wit; he had somtimes a certain kind of sweet and melancholly blithness, (if I may so call it) which furnished him with such diverting conceits, as that they cannot be repeated without derogation.
Moreover, being naturally curious and inquisitive, they had alwaies some amorous wrangle or other which made their discourse more sweet: For somtimes Phaon would needs know why she blushed, somtimes why she mused; and his excessive curiosity went so far that one day, there hapned a tender amorous dispute between them, because Phaon asked Sapho, why she was more sweet unto him that day than any other? afflicting himself as much, because she would not tell him, as if she had treated him ill. But Sir, (said she, having no mind to satifie his obstinate curiosity) somtimes you ask me such triviall questions, with so much good earnestness, that I must needs ask you in my turne, what is the cause of this generall curiosity, which causeth us so many petty quarrells? I should not think strange at your curiosity in things essentiall, and of concernment, but your humour is such, that you are inquisitive of every trifle: Yes Madam (said he unto her) I am so, and ever shall be, of every thing that concerns you, and if I could, I would oblige you to give me an account of all your thoughts, and of all your looks, for Madam, as you have given extream straight limits unto my desires, and as you have permitted me to aspire no further, than the enjoyment and possession of your heart: how can you think I should be assured of it, if I did not know all the passages in it? and therefore think not strange, I cannot endure you should deny me what I ask; for by acquainting me sometimes why you blush'd, why you studied, & why you did not look upon me: you put me into possession of that heart which you have promised me, and you joy me beyond my expressions: And indeed I set a greater value upon one of those little hidden thoughts, which obligingly discover your heart unto me than some would of greater favours who are not capable of all the nice delicacies of Love, therefore Madam I beseech you deny no more, the satisfaction of my curiosity though it ask only trifles of you, and trifles, which seem unto you unreasonable.
For indeed Madam, (added he, and smiled) Love is a Child, which delights himself in toyes, and has innocent fatasmes, so that looking upon my too much cusitie [Page 134] is an effect of the grandure of my love, I hope you will comply with my weaknesse, and rather then afflict me by telling me nothing, you will tell me all I shall aske.
You may judg Madam, after this, that the Love of Phaon was very tender, ingenuous, and gallant: and that loving one who knew the best in the world how to love, and who had a superlative witt, you may imagine they enjoyed a thousand delights, which those of a dull and grosse capacity in matters of Love, are ignorant of: Yet sometimes when Phaon considered that Sapho would not marry, and that she was the most vertuous woman in the world, [...]he would be something pensive upon the matter: but she knew so well how to dissipate those muddy mist [...] of melancholly, the cause of which she quickly discovered, as he was forced to confesse that he was the happiest Lover alive.
In the mean time, as I told you before, Nicanor being still in love with Sapho, and Alces wanted but little of it, Jealousie did so seize upon the heart of the faire Athys, and of Nicanor, that in the end it much molested the felicity of these most happy Lovers.
And the better to let you understand the cause of this alteration, I must acquaint you with a kind of a Feast which Sapho made at a house of hers some hundred furlongs from Mytelene, and which without dispute was the most pleasant leat in the Isle: And indeed, all that was desirable in a Countrey house was there to be found; for it was close by the Sea, and yet was full of the most rare fresh Springs and Fountains that ever were seen. Moreover, it had severall lovely Groves, Meadows, Gardens, and Grotto's: The structure also was very stately, so as every Summer Sapho went with Cynegire unto it, and all their friends came to visite them.
We being all there in that delightfull season, which may be termed the youth of the yeare; and when the first greenness of the hearbs and leaves renders the Countrey most pleasing, Sapho with Cynegire invited all her deare friends, to pass away a whole day with them. But though she invited only friends, yet others also came: For Nicanor, Alces, Phaon, and I waited upon Amithone, Athys, Erinne, and Cydnon: And Chance so ordered it, that the very same day Philire with her two friends and two Adorers of Sapho came thither in the afternoon, not knowing that we were there, so as the company were very frolick that day.
I shall not relate unto you Madam the particulars of this Feast: only tell you, that though Sapho and her Cousin were dressed only in white, decked with flowers, yet were they so gallant, that a prettier sight could not be seen.
When we came to Sapho's house, she met us with two of her women in a little thick Grove, in the midst of which is a most admirable Spring, running by the foot of a huge Tree, whose branches were so large and thick, that they did not only over-shadow the Fountain, but many seats of Grasse also which were about it. Sapho meeting us in this place in such a dresse as I mentioned, she received us with such a gallant Aire, and in so noble a Garbe, that in my life I never saw her so lovely: For she had the fragrancy of the whole Spring in her face, her eyes had the lustre of the rising Sun, when first it appears without a Cloud: and her joys which she expressed at the sight of us, did so visibly glance it selfe upon us by her lovely looks, as presaged a very pleasing passing away of that day: There was not one in all the company upon whom she bestowed not a very obliging Complement, and who did not thinke that shee was sweeter unto them then unto others.
But I, who always had an observant eye upon her, was not so much mistaken as they were; for in the very midst of this tumultuous joy which she expressed at the sight of us, I saw in her faire eyes something so singular towards Phaon when she made her Complement to him, that those advantageous thoughts which her heart harboured of him were very apparant unto my eye. However, all this jolly company desiring to stay a while in that place, our Coaches went behind the Grove unto Sapho's house, and we stayed to enjoy the delight of that pleasing shade, the agreeable murmure of the Fountain, and pleasant noise of the leaves which an easie gale of winde did whifle.
This first conversation was something miscellaneous, and passed from object [Page 135] to object: At the first, those Ladies which came from Mytelene, began to commend the beauty of Sapho, and admired how she kept her selfe from being Sunburnt: Considering that as long as she vvas in the Country, she vvas perpetually abroad. Sapho on her side, she gave them such svveet adulatory Language, as custome hath introduced amongst such Ladies as knovv the World, and are both young and faire.
After she had asked us all the nevvs of Mytilene, We in our turns asked her all the passages of her solitude; Cydnon chid her for not writing unto her, Erinne for not remembring her, Athys for going avvay vvithout bidding her Adieu; and all of us together told her that she affected solitude so much, and her absence vvas such an affliction to us, that we could not any longer endure it, To prove that what you say is true (replyed Sapho very sweetly) you must acquaint me how you have spent your time this eight days since I came hither: For if you can make it appeare that you do really regret my absence, I believe I shall return with you: but to tell you truly, I am perswaded that you were all full of diversions, notwithstanding my absence. For my part (said Nicanor) I went no whither but unto Pittacus about businesse of much importance, concerning a friend of mine: And the faire Athys knows very well, that though I am her neer Neighbour, yet I never saw her; it is very true indeed (replyed she) Nicanor hath been very solitary since your departure: And for my particular (added she very crafcily) I have not been so, for I have seen much company, and walked abroad very often, but for all that I was extream weary of your absence, and wished for you a hundred and a hundred times: I am sure Phaon who was with me twice when I walked to take the Aire, does know that I expressed as much, and that I chid him for being no sadder then he was at your absence.
I must confesse (replyed Phaon) that yesterday you chid me, but it was unjustly. For those joyes which then appeared in my eyes, were only caused because I was to come hither this day. You have very cunningly recovered your selfe out of that net which the faire Athys unawares had like to have entangled you in (replyed Alces) but I know not whether you can so well get out of that which I shall put you into, when I shall tell you that the very next morning after Sapho departed, we made five or sixe visits together, and you were not at all discontented. Sapho, replyed hee, hath so well taught mee to be civill, that I had rather visite none, then say nothing to them: Yet Cydnon whom I saw some 2 or 3 days after, can tell you, that she saw me very melancholly. 'Tis true (replyed Amythone) but I know not whether it was at the absence of Sapho, for you were very merry the day before, and was at play, and lost much. Since the faire Sapho knows very well (replyed he) that I have no covetous soule, I do not feare she will suspect me for being more sadde for what I lost at play, then for the losse of her sight.
However it be (said she, and both blusht and smiled) I perceive that you had no time to be much discontented; for you have frequented walks, you have made visits, you have been at play, and doubtlesse have kept your Court with Pittacus, therefore being your friend, I must rejoyce you have spent your time so well, but I have little reason to thank you for thinking so little of me. Oh Madam (said he unto her) condemn me not before you heare me: I shall heare you another time (replyed she) as for this day, let us, after your example, think upon nothing but jocundry.
Sapho spoke this with so free an Aire, that Phaon was not troubled at it: And indeed, though at the first she thought that Phaon was not much troubled at her absence, yet since she received every day a Letter from him since she came into the Country, she conceived that he did it rather out of prudence then any defect of Love, so as this was no hinderance to her from being very merry all the rest of the day.
But after this good company had rested themselves a while, & after I had given Sapho an accompt of what I had done during her absence, she carried us through this pleasant grove unto a garden door which opened into a long walk, which led us unto the porch of the house where Cynegire received us. I shall not make any relation of the furniture in this house, nor of the neatnesse of our Repast, or of the Aromatique smels which perfumed the rooms, for I will not insist upon such [Page 136] trivialls: But give me leave to tell you, that an howre after we were risen from the Table, and were removed into a very pleasant withdrawing Room, next the dining Chamber, Phylire and her Company arrived: So as this encrease of good Company, augmented the joyes of Sapho; and she behaved her self so nobly unto all in the house, that Phaon being charmed at the sight of her, and not being Master of his passion, he expressed his admiration so openly, that Sapho made a signe unto him, to shut up his wonder in his heart, for he applauded her with such aggravations, he approached her with such earnestnesse, and looked upon her with so much love, that indeed there was some cause to think (considering his joyes in seeing her) that if he had been out of her sight he would have run mad.
In the meane time, a little after Phylire was come, and had presented all her company unto Sapho; This most admirable Lady told them all that she would shew them a place more pleasant then that they were in. And indeed, Cynegere and she carryed us throug [...] ▪ a long close walk in a wood, which appeared so wild and so farre from any habitation, as one would have thought it a desart: And at the end of the thickest part of this wood, there was a great Grotto, which nature had begun, and which Art and Saphoes ingenuity had finished; And which indeed is one of the most delightfull things in the world. For it was large, it was coole, it was deep, and yet it was light enough; The Rock, had rarity of all Colours, and that which was added unto it, was such an excellent imitation of Nature, as one would think, Art had no hand in it.
Seats were contrived round about this Grott, and in such a rustique manner as if chance only had been the Contriver, yet were they very easie and handsome, for by a singular artifice one is made believe that the mosse which growes there, are Cushions: The little Purling Rivolet which runs through it, by its coolnesse, renders the place more delectable.
Besides all this, there were severall openings into a second Grott invisible to this other, through which such Voco-ducts were placed, as one might easily heare what one said unto another.
The place being thus pleasant, Cynegire and Sapho conducted us thither, we were no sooner set, but upon a sudden we heard a most admirable harmony, which came from the second Grott into that in which we were, and which filled it with such Seraphique Aires, as never was a more charming surprise. At first, we thought it was Sapho who appointed this diversion, but she was so astonished also that we quickly perceived it was not she.
In the mean time, all the Company looked upon Sapho, and she looked upon all the company, but to tell you truely, she no sooner looked upon Phaon, but she knew it to be a piece of his gallantry. He yet would not openly acknowledge it, but it passed for a piece of enchantment all the day, and furnished the Conversation with a very pleasant Subject. But Cynegire being most curious of all the Company, she went out of that Grott with one of the Ladies which came with Phylire, intending to go into the other Grott, and know from the mouths of the Musitians, who sent them, after which, she walked in a solitary Alley not farr off. In the meane time, this gallantry of Phaons, caused every one to extoll it, and him both, though he said still, that he did not merit any such applause, and that his Gallantry came short of such an entertainment. Phaon (said my Sister unto him) if we should believe you, you were notably trapped; for those who really have gallant soules, do know they have such, and take it ill any should think they have not, and indeed they have reason to insist upon such qualities as makes them prized above others.
One must have gallant inclinations, (replyed Alces and smiled) that can speak as you do, one ought to have Rationall inclinations as wel as gallant (replyed she) for it men do things no otherwise then as I intend they will never please very well. For my part, (replyed Amithone) I would very gladly know, in what, this kind of Gallantry consists of which Cydnon speaks: For my particular, (said Phaon and interrupted her) I had much rather we should talk of this then any thing else, for I must confesse, I meet with so many scurvy Gallants in this world, who yet do make great progresse in the hearts of some Ladies, that true, and really noble Gallants, make not so many conquests as they do. And therefore I would have [Page 137] us begin here a description of bad Gallantry, to the end, that at our returne unto Mytelene, we may infuse our Maxims into the minds of all the Town.
Then it is also requisite (replyed Phylire) that you give Lawes and Rules unto the noble kind of Gallantry: for it will signifie nothing if you should only blame the one, and not teach us the other.
For my part (replyed Sapho) I am such a professed enemy unto all bad gallants, though I do love a gallant Aire in all things, and should be ravished with such conversation if it were not in this place; but to tell you truely, (added she and smiled I would not it said in Mytelene, that we assembled here, to make Lawes for Love.
For my part, (replyed Phaon) I will talk of nothing else this day. And for my particular (said I) I believe I cannot speak of any other subject. It is indeed so pleasing) (replyed Nicanor) that it would be difficult to change it into a better. It is also so necessary (said Alces) that I know not what we should talk of, if not of this.
We talked of all the news before Dinner, (replyed Phaon) we commended the beauty of the place, and we have talked almost of every thing, so as we shall have nothing to do (said Phaon unto Sapho) unlesse you will let us eyther commend you, or let us talk of Gallantry. Believe me (replyed she) I had rather you should talk of Gallantry, then commend me. Then Madam, replyed Phaon, I beseech you give us leave to talk of it all the day, for as my soule is now dispos'd, I think my self almost as witty as you are when you are out of your good humour. If you be no more (replyed she) you would be lesse gallant then you are. But I beseech you (said the faire Athys unto Supho) tell us how you came to be the most gallant person in the world. I do not intend to accuse you of any Gallantrie (continued she craftily) when I say so, but to commend you because you neither do, nor say any thing but with a gallant Aire: Though I have not so much vanity as to believe this you say is applicative unto me, (replyed Sapho) yet I do think, I know your meaning, and that there is a kind of gallantry without any love, which is sometimes to be used in most serious matters; and which gives an excellent charme unto all that one does, or sayes.
In the meane time, this gallant Aire I meane does not altogether consist in much wit, much judgement, and much knowledge, but is a thing so particular, and so difficult to be acquired when one hath it not, that one knowes not how to learne it, or where to seek it. For I know a man whom all the Court knows, who is very handsome, hath wit enough, who is very magnificent in his attendance, in his house and in his habit, who is able and speaks well, who hath done all that ever he can to get a gallant Aire, and who is for all that, the least gallant of all men living, But pray you (said Amithone) what is this gallant Aire which is so pleasing? It is I know not what (replyed Sapho) which is compounded of a hundred severall things: It is a work of Nature infused into the Persons who have it; moreover, much comerce with the World and Court doth help, the Conversation of women also, doth much contribute: And I dare maintaine, that never any had an Aire of gallantry, who shunned discourse with persons of my own sex; and if I durst, I would say, that before a man can attaine unto this gallant Aire, he must once in his life have some small inclination unto Love: But take heed, (replyed Amithone) that you do not engage your self to farr by speaking as you do, for if it be necessary to have been in love before they can attaine this Aire of gallantry, it must follow by necessary inference, that a Lady who hath this gallant Aire hath loved some or other. No, replyed Sapho, for though I do maintaine that a man must have hi [...] heart a little engaged before he can attaine this Aire, yet I maintaine also, that for a Lady to acquire it, it is sufficient if she receive a favourable disposition unto it, from Nature, that she hath seen the World, that she be acquainted with men of parts, and that she have a designe to please all in generall without loving any in particular. For all that, me, thinks (said the faire Athys) that the word Gallant is too much abused: for I like it well that one should say this is gallantly thought: or this is gallantly said▪ and a thousand such like, whose wit [...] beares a part in it; but it is not so to say, this habit is very gallant, or that man is very gallantly drest.
[Page 138] For my part (said Phaon) I make no such difficulty of it, for it is that gallant air which Sapho, hath in her minde, and in all her person, that makes the dresse she weares become her so well; and to prove the truth, one shall see some Ladies at a Ball, who are rarely drest, and who yet are but ugly in comparison of that simple dresse which hath its gallantry from the Person who weares it.
For my particular, (added Sapho) I think one may put a gallant Aire upon all, and that any may keep it as long as they live; but to tell you truly, and to speak in generall, this kind of gallantry is the work of another, and must either be in love, or have a naturall desire to please before it can be gotten. Not but that as I said before, there are some persons of great rank and quality, who cannot have it, for they want that naturall Mould, which puts I know not what kind of spirit, which pleaseth unto things least capable, and infuseth into the most common talk a secret charm which satisfieth, and diverteth: There is I say, I know not what kind of gallant spirit infused into the person which possesseth it, both in his Wit, in his Speech, his Action, and in his Habit: This is it which doth accomplish men, which renders them amiable, and which makes them loved.
Indeed, there is a kind of Byas or faculty in telling of things, which sets a value upon them, and those who have this faculty, may oftentimes speak of that, which others dare not so much as think, but in my opinion, the gallant Air in conversation, consists principally, in speaking of things in an easie and naturall manner: To incline unto more sweetness, and mirth, then unto the serious and sharp, to speak easily, and in apt terms without affectation, there must be also a kind of insinuating and flattering spirit, to subdue the minds of others, and if I could express my meaning well, I would confess unto you, that one cannot be compleatly amiable without this gallant Air.
Tis true, said Alces, that it is difficult to please without it; but yet it must be confessed, that those unto whom it is absolutely necessary, are those who make profession of gallantry.
It is most certain (replyed Sapho) that a Lover without this air of gallantry, is a most pittifull thing. And the worst is (continued he) there are an infinite number of young men who are but newly stept into the world, which beleive all gallantry to consist in the most fantasticall mode, which some fond foolish Taylor invented, and in being bold and talking much: In going unto all houses whose gates are open, having no business there but to talk of trifles, without either Gallantry, Passion, or Wit.
There are some (replyed Cydnon) who think themselves very gallant men, if they can but say, they have seen all the gallant women in the town, and brag, that I was yesterday with such a one, and the day before with that Lady: I presented a third with a Serenade, I treated Sapho, and all her company with a banquet, I was with another troop of Ladies the day following, and so of the rest.
These sort which you mention (replyed Sapho,) are not in the number of good Gallans for certainly they are very shallow witted, and full of folly; but I am much more afraid of those eternall languishors, who are alwaies telling smooth tales, who are deeply in love with the gray, the black, the brown eyes, with equall fervency: who think they are hugely dishonored, if they have been an houre with a woman, and not sighed: For my part I cannot endure them, and I am confident, they say nothing unto him which they had not said a thousand times unto others, so as I am not able, either to hearken unto them, or to return an answer. I must confess replyed Phaon, these universal sighers are a sort of strange men but we do know some brisk and fiery Lovers, which are no more than they, and all the company knows one, who is in love with a great beauty, who sweares all the oathes under heaven, that he loves her more than ever any did or can, that he will dye a hundred deaths to do her service, that he will kill all those who dare displease her, and would take it for a great favour if she will bid him go, and kill any man for her service.
This man is so brutish, (replyed Erinne) that he deserves not to be spoke unto; but I would gladly know, what one should think of certain merry gallants, who never talk of Love but in rallary, and yet are alwaies talking of it, who being neither busibodies nor Lovers, are continually walking from place to place, to vent their jocund gallantry, without any other design.
[Page 139] These greggs seldome stay long in a place, nor do they much trouble me when I meet with them, for some of them divert me; but those who most anger me, are such reall busi-bodies as have ten or twelve severall intrigues and plots, without a dram of Love in any of them, who have a hundred severall businesses, and yet not one.
I assure you (replyed Phylire) those obstinate Lovers who are alwaies melancholly, are never pleasing to me nor themselves; and I know one who is always so sadly sober, that I think him jealous, or that he is thinking of killing his Rivall, or poysoning himself. Doubtless there are some such gloomy Lovers, (replyed Phaon) who are as displeasing as you think them: But amiable Phylire, there may be some faithfull Lovers as sad, who yet are not so troublesome. This is most constantly true (replyed Cydnon) that there are very few men who are deeply in love, and very gallant, and who are less pleasing unto others, than they are unto those they love: And though love seems to be but a trifle, yet it is the rarest thing in the world, to find a Lover who can trifle it handsomly. But yet (said I, and addressed my speech unto Sapho) it is not just to examine only the gallants, but it is better to talk of gallantry in generall, to the end that the gallantry of Ladies in particular, may also be talked of.
I assure you (replyed Sapho) there are some who are gross in their gallantry, that it would be both a favour and an honour unto them, not to talk of it. Yet I must needs confess, that women are to be blamed for the ill gallantry of men; for if they did but know how to make use of those priviledges▪ which belong unto their sex, they would make men right gallants, and would never suffer them to fail in their due respects: Indeed, they would never suffer a hundred uncivill familiarities, which most new gallants would bring into the world, for there is a great intervall between a constrained Ceremony and incivility; and if all gallant Ladies did but well understand of the mystery of behaving themselves, their gallants would be more respective, and more complaisant, and by consequence more pleasing. But the worst is, those women who have taken a crochet of gallantry into their heads, do imagine, that unless they be indulgent unto their gallants, they cannot keep them, and all those I speak of do neither care for their own reputation, nor for the advantage of their own gallantry, but only how to take off a Lover from this Lady, to attract this gallant, to preserve another, and to engage a thousand if they could: There are some also (continued she) which do worse, and who keep a hundred private correspondencies [...]n lieu of one.
Tis true, (replyed Amithone) I know some women whose gallantry is a very horrour unto any of any virtue, and behave themselves so impudently, as it may truly be said, that they make it their glory, which should be their shame; but I am sure their Gallants themselves do scorn them, and as they behave themselves, they will never have any who will esteem them, for men will not hazard their reputations for them. Yet we use to see many men (replyed Erinne) who never care for the reputation of those Ladyes they love; since they care not for their own (replyed Cydnon) I know not how they should care for others. But I beseech you (said Nicanor) is it impossible you should find nothing to say of gallants, and gallantry, but what is ill? I assure you (replyed Sapho) it is much easier to speak ill then good of them, considering what a great number of men there are, which will be medling with things they understand not; yet certain it is, that if Ladies in generall, did but know how to manage, it would be possible, to bring into the world such a sprightly, pleasant, and innocent gallantry, as should never be offensive, neither unto prudence nor virtue. Indeed, if Ladies would not value their Lovers, but according to their merits, and not according to their flatteries and favours, the conquest of their hearts being more difficult, then men would be more complaisant, more obsequious, more humble, and more respective then they are; women would be also less interested, less cheaters, less simple, and less dishonored than they are. So as every one being in their right Sphere, Mistresses Mistresses, and Servants Servants; delights would abound in the world, Politeness would florish, and true gallantry would be seen in its right colours, then should we never as now we do, hear men talk of women in generall with much scorn, nor should we hear them brag publikely of their favours. Then we should not see any women cast [Page 140] off all modesty and shame, though they be the charms of right gallantry; we should never see Ladies quarrelling about a Lover, nor out of mercenery thoughts, sell their hearts as if they were Diamonds: For indeed, if gallantry be at any time allowable it must be, when the gallant cannot be upbraided with anything, but this, that they could not choose but love another, better than themselves.
As Sapho sayd so, Cynegire, and the Lady who was walking with her, being returned, the discourse was interrupted, and an humour of walking coming into the generall fancy, all the company went out of the Grotto, and went to walk in a shady, long, and large Arbour, and the musick following, the spirit of dancing came on them for an houre, which was performed most excellently.
In the mean time, though it was not likely that Phaon could find any opportunity of privacy with Sapho, at a time when she had so many Complements to perform unto so many severall persons as did her the honourof this visit, yet he met with an occasion; for as every on [...] had an occasion to walk a little after their dancing, so he presented his hand unto Sapho: And by this means, going more softly then the rest, they did insensibly separate themselves some eight or ten paces from all the company, and talked unto her of his passion, and in such vehement raptures, that Sapho, as difficult as it was to please her in matter of tenderness, was well satisfied with him that day. Indeed, he told her so directly all that she thought he would tell her, and that in such an obliging manner, that she thought him worthy to shew him her Joyes which she had in his loving her, and yet she chidd him for being so pleasant in her absence: but he answered so well, that she did not think his jocundry proceeded from his inclinations: and indeed he was so extreamly joyed at the sight of her, as she could not imagine but he would grieve for her absence: but as sweet as Phaons company was unto her, shee left it, and went unto the rest of the company, who were so well pleased with the place, that they could not part from it untill the evening after Supper. Sapho kept Cydnon with her, and the rest promised to write unto her: so that after we were gone, these two Ladies talked a long time together. But on Sapho's side more sadly, because she could not well brook the absence of Phaon, yet was it so sweet a kind of sadnesse, and did not deject her, nor hinder her from a most excellent discourse unto my sister upon the tenderness of Love.
The truth is, my deare Cydnon (said she unto her) Love is a most phantasticall passion: For though one doth wish nothing more zealously then the happinesse of the person they love, yet I should at this time be extreamly sorry if Phaon should not as much grieve at his being out of my sight, as I do for being out of his: and sometimes I am so vexed when he is absent from me, that I cannot tell what he does, and what he thinks, that it makes me almost as sad as if I knew certainly that he never thought upon me at all, yet perhaps he entertains such thoughts as would even ravish me with joy if I could know them, and finde in Phaons heart such as are in my own.
But Madam, whilst Sapho was thus talking with my Sister, all our company were returned unto Mytelene, and returned with such a spirit of joy as I am not able to expresse, except Nicanor, who was not able to frolick it like the rest, because he was out of hopes of Sapho's love. Perhaps Madam, you will think I was mistaken when I excepted only Nicanor, and that I should have excepted Phaon: But Madam, I must acquaint you how he had such a Fancy as I thinke never any Lover besides himselfe had: For Phaon, though he had a most tender and passionate soule, and did love with an inconceivable zeale, yet was his soule seldome sensible of any sorrow; and absence, as harsh as it is unto all other Lovers, seldome much troubled him, though he was as much joyed to be with her he loved, as one knows how to imagine: Indeed I have seen him sometimes with Sapho in such raptures of delight, as were very neare an extasie, and I have seen him absent from her without any excessive sorrow: Not but that hee loved her both present and absent, more then ever any was able to expresse: but the reason was, because his soule was more sensible of joy then sorrow; and because as soone as he had lost his greatest delight, he would seek out lesse to comfort himselfe.
Indeed his soule was so addicted to follow all that could please him, and to shun any thing that would make him melancholly, as hee was sometimes able to [Page 144] be absent from her he loved most, vvithout being very miserable. Yet this did not hinder, but when he saw the person he loved again, he vvould think himselfe as happy as if he had never been afflicted: such joyes vvould sparkle in his eyes, and such an unexpressable spirit vvould spread it selfe over all his Countenance, as sufficiently testified the satisfaction he had in seeing her vvhom he adored: so as one could not imagine that a man vvho could enjoy a happiness vvith such high delight, could part from it vvithout abundance of sorrovv.
Sapho also is excusable for being so long ignorant, that Phaon tasted only the svveets of Love, vvithout the bitters, for shee savv him so transported vvith joyes when he was with her, that she might easily imagine him full of sadnesse when he was from her: For my part, I thought at first, that he did it only out of prudence, the better to hide his love unto Sapho, and that his frolick humour all the way as we returned to Mytelene, was only to blind the company.
In the mean time, the jolly humour of Phaon encreased the sullen humour of Nicanor, he thought that that mirth of his Rivall proceeded from the obliging behaviour of Sapho, and therefore he could not hide his joyes. As for Athys, her jealousie begetting in her fancy a desire to disquiet Sapho, she remembred the discourse which Sapho and the company had concerning Sapho's diversions during his absence: so as negotiating the businesse with as much wit as malice, she sent two dayes after her return, a servant unto Sapho, with a Letter which I needs must acquaint you with, for if I be not much mistaken in it, it was in these Terms.
ATHYS unto SAPHO.
SInce I cannot forget my promise of writing unto you all the newes, I am desirous to acquit my selfe: But since Mytelene affords little, I must acquaint you with our Journey, which was no lesse diverting in our return, then in our coming to you; for Phaon and Alces were in the blithest humours in the world: and except Nicanor who was very melancholly, all the rest of the company thought the way very short. Truth is, Phaon and Alces were so full of their Jollities, that I should fill my Letter full of mirth, and swell it into a volume if I should write them all: But since I thinke it not good to divert you too much in the Countrey, lest it should keepe you too long from satisfying the wishes of your friends by your presence, I will not mention them: Also I am forced to finish my Letter, because I have promised to divert my selfe in walking with Phaon and Alces, and they do stay for me: I saw so much blithenesse in their faces this morning at the Temple, that I have reason to believe they will be in a very pleasant humour; but for my part, I assure you, I shall take delight in nothing more then in seeing you againe.
This Madam, was the Letter of Athys, which doubtles contained in it all imaginable malice; for it hurt Alces, it disquieted Sapho, and it was prejudicial both unto Phaon and Alces, by the good office it did Nicanor. However, this Letter perhaps had not met with its intended success, if Amithone, Erinne, Phylire, Alces, Nicanor, and Phaon, had not written, and mentioned such things as confirmed what Athys had written; for Amithone, after many passages in their Caballa, mentioned that Phaon was more pleasant than ever he was in his life: Erinne for her particular, to prove the tendernesse of her affection, did send her word how shee could brag, that she was the most melancholy of all the company who had been with her, except Nicanor: And Philire writt, that if the merry humour of Phaon had not been a comfort unto her in her absence since her return, she should have been out of the world. Alces not saying directly that Phaon was either merry or sad, only filled his Letter with many pleasant conceits of Phaons: And as for Nicanor, his [Page 142] Letter was so melancholly, though yet a very pleasant satyre of all our jocundry, that he confirmed what all the rest had written. But the wonder of all was, that Phaons own Letter was against himself: For though he shrouded his Joyes under a pretence of Love, yet he found not his expected effect, as I shall tell you, when you have heard Phaons Letter, which was thus written.
PHAON unto the most charming SAPHO.
DOubtlesse you have a most strange power over me, & your words, when you please, have greater force in them then any inchantments: For your obliging expressions a little before I parted from you, did infuse such joyes into my soule, that all the harshnesse of absence from you cannot hinder me from remembring them with extream delight: Judg how I shall be ravisht when you return hither.
Moreover, I hope you will take my joyes as greater testimonies of my Love, then if I had been onely a lump of sorrows; for I conceive it better to receive favours with so great a sensibility of them as shall comfort in absence, then to endure absence with so much inquietude as makes favours forgotten: Nor can I well tell which is the greater argument of love, to be sensible of favours, or to be sensible of that misfortune which severs us. Yet I desire with all my soule to heare from your owne month, what I ought to believe, and that I may soone protest unto you upon my knees that I am the most devoted yours.
This Madam, was the Letter of Phaon: As for mine, it was the only one which did him neither good nor hurt, because it did not so much as mention him: For since I thought him too merry for an absent Lover, and since I was resolved not to prejudice him, I chose rather not to speak of him at all, then to speak in his dis-advantage. But whilst these Letters were coming from Mytelene, to the place where Sapho was, she and Cydnon were talking together with all the freedome which the Countrey and friendship would allow: But they talked of things very far off any thoughts of Phaon; for indeed both of them being sitting by the Fountaine which I talked of before, discoursed upon the bitternesse of absence, and the sorrows which it caused in the soules of all such as are sensible of it. For my part (said Cydnon) I am so sensible of it, that since your departure from Mytelene, I have enjoyed no delights with any tranquility; for when I made any visits, I was wishing you there: if I went any walke, I regretted your not being there; if I heard any good news, I was vexed that I could not impart it unto you: and indeed I neither did, nor said, nor thought any thing wherein you had not some share, and which did not make mee melancholly in thoughts onely of your absence. Indeed (said Sapho then) I am much obliged to you; for in my opinion, the most certaine testimonie of the tendernesse in any affection is sadnesse in absence. But Madam, as soone as shee had pronounced these words, that Servant who brought the Letter from Athys, arrived, and presented it unto Sapho, who read it halfe aloud, to the end Cydnon might heare: But when she read that part which intimated the pleasant humour of Phaon, she blushed, and her heart trembled. Yet recollecting her selfe, she appointed the Servant to stay for an answer, and did rise up with intentions to write unto Athys: and she was no sooner risen, but another Messenger from Phaon arrived, with all the other Letters except that of Nicanors, and as for his he sent it another way. But Madam, my Sister since told me that never was the like disorder, as in the heart of Sapho; for after she had read that Letter from Athys, with such resentment as I told you, she read that of Amithones with more agitation of soul: that of Erinnes with more wonder: that from Phylire with more vexation; that [Page 143] from Alces, with more pensivenesse; that from Nicanor with more shame, and that from Phaon with more sorrow, though she kept it the last, in hopes of greatest delight. Imagine I beseech you Madam, what effects these Letters might worke in the mind of a Lady who could not endure the absence of Phaon without much sorrow, & who had spent a whole day with my sister in discoursing upon the bitternesse of absence, and upon the sorrows which a Lover endures when he is out of her sight whom he loves. Cydnon told me that there appeared so much vvonder in the face of Sapho upon the reading of these Letters, as shee thought some strange accident had hapned at Mytelene; for Sapho had read the Letter of Athys only aloud unto her, but she vvas not long ignorant of Sapho's vvonder; for as soon as that fair one had read over all those Letters, she gave them unto my sister, and vvith a deep sigh, See (said she unto her) hovv little Phaon resembles you, and hovv friendship in you does more then Love in him can do.
After this, Cydnon began to read these Letters, and vvas not so much astonished at them as Sapho vvas; for she observed alvvays, that Phaon did divert himselfe at every thing, and vvas never sad upon any occasion. But since she knevv that I loved Phaon very vvell, she vvould endeavour to excuse him: And in order to that, she told Sapho she had no such reason to trouble her self so much at any thing vvhich had been vvritten: For truly (said she unto her) vvhatsoever Athys, Nicanor, and Alces vvrit ought to be suspected; and you ought to read vvhat Phaon vvrit, as a thing vvhich he had never vvritten, but because it seemed unto him as acceptable unto you; also you ought to consider vvhat Amithone, Erinne, and Phylire vvrit vvithout any inquietude, since it's probable that Phaon at his return, seeing hovv they observed him, did only out of his prudence seem more pleasant then really he was: Ah Cydnon (replyed Sapho) I thought to be as prudent as Phaon, and yet I was not able to be merry within an houre after his departure: all I was able to do, was not to appeare very melancholly, and therefore I pray never offer to excuse him, for I cannot: I know Phaon is an intimate friend unto Democedes: but Cydnon, methinks he should more have thought upon me then him: Did I think him culpable (replyed she) doubtlesse I should condemn him; why (replyed she) can you think it possible Phaon should be so pleasant as to make so many severall people speak of his jollity, but it must needs proceed from his want of Love? Ah Cydnon, it can be no otherwise: and I find him so little sensible of my absence, that I could find in my heart to banish him out of it: For my deare Cydnon, I am not able to endure, that whilst I am grieving my selfe for his absence, he should divert both himselfe and others with as much freedome of spirit as if he had never seen me: For my part (said Cydnon) I see him so full of joy when he sees you, as I cannot believe but he is full of sorrows when he sees you not: Reason and Love doubtlesse would have it so (replyed she) yet all these sixe severall persons depose against him, and indeed he condemns himself by his own Letter.
Appearances may so deceive (said Cydnon to her) as it would not be rationall in you to be much troubled at a thing which you know only upon uncertainties. To know it better my deare Cydnon (replyed she) I will intreat you to return unto Mytelene, I will borrow Cynegires Coach for you, and you may give it out that you are returned upon such important businesse which called you thither: I in the interim will stay here fifteen days in expectation to heare from you, whether Phaon continue his jollity as he begun: But my deare Cydnon, I conjure you to let me have every day from you a most faithfull and true relation of all his mirth, of his humours, and of his diversions; for the very truth is, if he love me only when he sees me, I will slight his love, and if I can I vvill quench my ovvn. Cydnon then employed all her rhetorick to appease her, but she thought it so strange that Phaon should be merry vvhilst she vvas sad, as all my Sisters eloquence could not alter her mind, so as she must do as she vvould have her, and return to Mytelene, upon promises of such fidelity as she durst not faile her. In the mean time Sapho answered all those Letters she received, taking no notice of any discontent against Phaons jollity: but not being able to hold out long, shee hinted these few lines unto Phaon.
SAPHO unto PHAON.
I Make no question, but joy may sometimes be a signe of a very tender affection: but I question whether it be so as you intend it. When I shall come to Mytelene, I shall see, whether yours be worthy of being valued as testimonies of that affection which you had rendred unto me.
Though this Letter was something short and dry, yet Phaon never feared that Sapho was angry with him, but thought that she had so many answers to write, that she could not have time to write any longer unto him: so as never changing his way of living, he behaved himselfe after Cydnons return as he did before, which was, in seeking all occasions of cheering up himselfe in the absence of Sapho. In the mean while she sent every day a servant unto Mytelene in secret, to know from Cydnon newes of Phaon, so as she received every day something which afflicted her; for Phaon was of such an humour, that he could not deny himselfe any one pleasure, as if the reason why he was so continually with Sapho whilst he was in Mytelene, had been only because more delights were to be met withall there then in any other places. But this was no hinderance to him of taking up with meaner pleasures when he was out of her sight whom he loved: So as Sapho having engaged my sister by oath to send her word of all that Phaon did, she understood that he haunted all the diversions in Mytelene, and that he seemed as if he had no discontents at his being there: so as her mind being extreamly incensed against him, she could nor find a heart to see him, before she had let him know that she was displeased: To that end she sent unto him the day before her return unto Mytelene, an exact memoriall of all his delights which he had during her absence, hinting unto him every particular dayes visit which he made, the pleasant walkes which he took, all the diversions which he took; and in a word, all that hee did: and to this Diurnall shee joyned a Letter which was very neer these words,
SAPHO unto PHAON.
SInce it is not to be believed that the sight of me will not adde so much unto your pleasures as my absence, I conceive that my returne will perhaps be but a disturbance unto your delights: You may perceive by this Diurnall which I send you, that I have a very exact accompt of all your diversions: but the question is, whether it be to punish or to recompence you. For to tell you truly, I believe we are not both of one opinion; and I am perswaded that you are not so sorry for displeasing me, as you joyed in my absence, and therefore you have no share in the affection, or esteem of
Since Phaon was really most extreamly in love with Sapho, and knew that she was to return the next day, he did resent this Letter vvith much agitation of spirit, but hoped to make his peace at the first sight of her. Yet to the end he might see her before she came unto Mytelene, he came unto me, and after he had shevved [Page 145] me the Letter, he intreated me to go with him, and meet her at a very rugged uneven place, where all those who come in Coaches must come out of them, so that Phaon and I stayed under some willowes, in that rugged place; as soon as we were alighted from our horses, and stayed in expectation of their coming, I began to chide Phaon for his humour: For (said I unto him) how is it possible you should be much in love with Sapho, and be so little sensible of sorrow in her absence? when you are with her, you are so ravished with joyes, as perswades me you would die if you were out of her sight.
The truth is (said he) one cannot have a more violent passion, than is in my Soul, and my hopes of seeing Sapho this day, does at this very houre so joy my heart, that could you but see into my soul, you would confess that I do love Sapho better than any loved; but yet I must needs confess, that setting my jealousie aside, there are few things can make me very sad. I do profess (said he) if I feared Sapho would not love, I think I should run into desperate madness, in what place soever I were; but when I have reason to hope I am loved, when I hear of her being well every day, and when I know she will shortly return, and I must ingeniously confess, that I cannot be pensive and melancholly without a cause: And my soul is so propence and inclinable to court all delights, to shun all sorrows, that I use all the best means I can to sweeten the harshness of absence: But for all that, as soon as I see but Sapho again, you shall see me eternally with her, and see me the most amourous of all men living.
Ah Phaon (said I unto him) to love as you do, is enough to make one beleive you love your self more than your mistress: But yet it is most certainly true, (replyed he) there is none in the world would undertake more difficulties for Saphoes service than I would, I would blindly obey her in any thing, I am more carefull, more exact, and more submiss, than ever any was; I have a heart more tender, than ever any had; I delight in the least of her favours, one favourable look swells me with joy, I have a million of tumultuous thoughts when I am with her, I esteem her, I admire her, and I adore her with as much reverence as I do the Gods; and my joyes are so full when I talk in particular with her, as never any Lover in possession of his mistress, had a fuller tesentment of delight. And after this, I pray judge whether I be not in Love, and whether you have reason to accuse me for want of it.
Tis true, my soul doth naturally shun sorrows, and affects pleasures, but what does it concern the person loved, whether her Lover be sad or merry, so he never fail in any reall duties of a faithfull Lover.
As he sayd so, we saw the Coach of Cynegire appear a far off, so as Phaon and I took horse, and in a rapture of Passion, went as fast as ever he could to meet Sapho, and he was so extreamly earnest, as that it could not be questioned but that he was most desperately in Love: And if the fair Sapho had seen him, doubtless she would have repented of what she writ; and he accosted her with so much joy, and love in his heart and eyes, that had she not wholly trusted unto Cydnon, she had doubted of her intelligence, and beleived that Phaon had sighed all the time of her absence. But for all that, since she could not doubt of what my Sister had written, she received Phaon but with a hollow and faint Civility, and had received him worse if Cynegire had not been present: However after these first Complements were passed, the Coach went on untill it came to the rugged place which I mentioned, where the Ladies must go on foot. I being Phaons friend, I presented my hand unto Cynegire, purposely that he might have the opportunity of talking with Sapho; for this rugged way was above two hundred Paces, before it was fit to take Coach again: and the Coach not being able to go so fast as we, we rested under some Willow Trees, where I drew Cynegire apart, under pretence of talking with her concerning a great design which Pittacus was negotiating.
Thus Phaon had an opportuniy of talking with Sapho, but she intending to chide him; no sooner saw him in that passionate posture, but her heart began to relent, whether she would or no; yet striving to retain her anger, she asked Phaon how he was able to quit his diversions to meet her: but she asked the question with a blush, so as Phaon by her looks seeing she would be appeased he was well satisfied: why, Madam, doe you aske such a question (sayd he unto her) and [Page 146] what cause have I given you to write to me as you did? since I harboured no joyes but what you caused? for I beseech you, Madam (sayd he unto her) how can you think a man who had hopes in your favour, can ever be sad? Therfore, Madam, when I was absent from you without sorrows, it was upon no other reason, but because I knew you had not banished me your heart: And indeed, Madam, this thought was so sweet, and filled my Soul so full of joyes, that as long as I was happy in your love, I defied Fortune to make me miserable: Yes, Madam, provided I may enjoy your affection, I can be contented to part with all my Estate, be an Exile, a Prisoner, and loadned with all manner of miseries, and be merry. Therfore I beseech you, Madam, I beseech you blame your self for those innocent joyes which you have caused. As for my part, I am perswaded that it would argue want of love and respect, if my joyes of being loved by the Divine Sapho, were not infinitely above any sorrows that can be for her absence. Moreover, Madam (sayd he with a most tender and passionate Aire) to judge how sensible I am when I am out of your sight, I beseech you consider my sensibility when I see you: Look in my eyes, most charming Sapho, and see them tell you that I think you fairer then ever, and that I am more joyed at the sight of you then ever any was, and am the most in love with you of all men living; but if they do tell you that I love you more then ever any other heart was capable of, then I beseech you never trouble your self with enduiring what I do when I am out of your sight: but consider only, that never any Lover did prostrate himself at your feet with a Passion more violent and tender then mine is; for I beseech you what matter is it how I do testifie my love when you are not in presence, so you do still find in me the same zeal and the same passion. For my part, I wished you all manner of diversions in the Country, and I hoped that the jocund humour of Cydnon would keep you from thinking your Solitude tedious. Oh Phaon (cryed Sapho out) you know not how to love, if you can desire that your absence should not trouble me: and for my part, I do declare unto you that I shall never be pleased at you, if you be not the most melancholly man living, when you are absent from me. Then, Madam (sayd he unto her) I must forget that you do love me, for if I do not, I cannot possibly be miserable: No (replyed Sapho) but on the contrary, it is the memory of that which I conceive should make you the more miserable; at least I am sure that the melancholly which your absence causeth in me, is, because I am absent from a person whom I thought loved me: Oh, Madam, replyed Phaon, your opinion and mine ought to be very different in this, for it is not possible that you should rejoyce for being adored by me, so much as I should for being loved by you, so as it is no wonder if the memory of my passion do not comfort you in my absence, nor is it strange that the memory of your goodness to me, do lessen those sorrows which your absence causeth; for Madam, I must say again, I cannot be melancholy as long as I am sure you love me. Questionless there is much wit in your Language (replyed Sapho) but not much love; and if your eyes did not help out your words, I should think you do not love me; for to be absent from her, one loves, and not melancholly, is one of the greatest signs of luke-warm indifferency that can be. Oh, Madam (sayd he unto her) How can you think I do not love you? could you ever suspect either any of my actions or my words? All I see of you (answered she) does doubtless speak your passion, but all I see not, speaks your indifferency; for in my absence you can make many Visits with delight, you can walk abroad in company, you can be frolick and pleasant, and not the least wrinkle of melancholly appear in your countenance: and yet that which makes me most wonder, you can have delicate and tender thoughts, and express your self so passionately as if you grieved for being absent: And yet I cannot conceive how one can possess a thing with any joy which he can part with without any sorrow: And sometimes I think that you are not at all joyed at my presence, since my absence never makes you melancholly. Oh, Madam (sayd he unto her in such a passionate manner as made her blush) I dare defie you in this, do your worst, and you cannot choose but beleive, that when I am in your presence, I am the most deep in love with you of any living: Yes, yes, Divine Sapho, though you have been told that I hanted Balles every day during your absence, that I entertained all the beauties in Mytelene: and though you have been told perhaps that I am inconstant, yet I am most confident that when you look into [Page 147] my eyes, you will see my heart loves you beyond the expression of any tongue; and indeed never any Lover had more reason to love then I: For first, you are without exception the fairest in the world, I have a more propense inclination to love you than ever any had; I esteem you beyond all admiration, and I do love you the more, because both my inclination and my reason adviseth me unto it, and also because my gratitude exacts it from me: Nay, as for this last reason of your love (replyed Sapho) I would never have it mentioned; why, Madam (replyed Phaon) would you not have me gratefull and acknowledge your goodness and all your favours? I would have every one gratefull (replyed she) but I would not have gratitude the only cause of affection, and if one should love me only because I love him, he would do me a most sensible injury: For indeed I would have one love me for so many other reasons, that though he were naturally ungratefull yet he might most zealously love me: And therefore never ranke your gratitude amongst the causes of your passion, if you would perswade me that you love me as I would be, for that is neither civill nor gallant, nor passionate. Gratitude indeed may beget amity but never Love: I would willingly you should tell me, that it fastens the knot which ties you, but as I told you before, I would not have you number it among the causes of your passion, for then, of consequence my favours must preced your a ffection, and on the contrary, I hoped, your affection had preceded my favours: and that if I ascribed your Love unto any cause, it should have been unto your own inclination, and my own merit, for my humour is such, as I cannot endure one should love me for any other causes. I remember (continued she) that once I hated a very lovely woman, because I discovered, that all her semblances of affection to me, did not proceed from any tendernesse unto me; but only in hopes that happily I should bring her name into some of my verses, and describe her Character.
Judge therefore Phaon, whether I should take it well you should love me for any other reason, then because you think me amiable, and because you cannot chuse but love me. When Sapho had said this, and the Coach being over all the rugged way, their discourse was forced to end as well as mine with Cynegire; with whom I held a long discourse concerning the Politiques, purposely to give Phaon time enough to expresse his love unto Sapho, and make his peace with her.
However, this faire one parted not from him without some testimonies of her anger, for as they were parting, she asked him in what pleasant company he would passe away the evening, as for us (added she and pointed unto Cynegire) we shall see none this day? I shall passe it away (replyed he) only with Democrates, and talk only with him of my joyes for your Returne, you had done much better, replyed she, if you had talked with him before, of your sorrows for my absence. But afterwards, taking Coach, Phaon presented his hand to help her, so respectively and his eyes had such amorous looks, as Sapho could not choose but repent of her accusation, and indeed, the very truth is, it is impossible that any should be more extreamly in love then Phaon, though he could not be very sensible of such sorrows as absence caused, but on the contrary, did comfort himself with the pleasure of one thing for the losse of another: However, this chiding of Saphoes, made him passe away that night in solitude, and indeed, he was so glad that he had made his peace with her as hee needed no other delights. Not that she did say, she would pardon him, but they used to understand one another so well without speaking, that looks betwixt them were as good as words. And though Sapho had chidden Phaon very much, yet he saw by her eyes, that he was still in her heart as he was wont to be. And indeed, going betimes the next morning unto her, he concluded his Peace, and they were an hower together with all the joyes which the reconciliation of fallen out Lovers, ever causeth But at last their pleasure was interrupted by Alces, who now loving Sapho no lesse then the faire Athys, was very diligent in waiting upon her. Tis true his Mistresse came presently after but you may be sure, it was Jealousie more then love which caused her visit: and though she knew Sapho did not love Alces yet she could not choose but be jealous. Nicanor also was none of the last in paying his devotions to Sapho: And Amithone, Erinne and Cydnon comming in also, the Assembly swelled into their usuall number. At the first; Athys, Amythone and Erinne began to talk of their [Page 148] Journey and their returne, which was no pleasing story unto Phaon. And they had harped much more upon that string if Phylire had not come in, and brought with her a stranger of a very handsome presence whom she presented unto Sapho, and who was Brother unto that valiant Prisoner called Moriontes, whom the invincible Cyrus had saved from the flames in the wood, after he had vanquished him. But Madam, this man seemed so unlike a stranger, that none questioned but that he was o [...] some of the most Civilized Townes in Greece, and did not suspect him to be a Scythian, yet his complexion and haire did not sute with the mode of Greece, for both were very white, and he very faire, but that rule being not generall, every one notwithstanding thought him a Grecian, for he had not only the Aire and Garbe of a Greek, but also he spoke the Language very elegantly, his person was very pleasing; his stature was not very tall, but noble and gracefull, his action was free and jolly. The features of his face were agreeable and lovely, his eyes a little languishing and he had the department of a man of a high quality. Moreover his wit was both sharp and discreet, and his Aire both gallant and sprightly: his Conception of things and his expressions of them was neat. And indeed, this illustrious Scythian is a man as amiable and of as admirable parts, as any man in the World.
Sapho having alwayes a particular Genius to honour all strangers who came to visit her, she received him with that gallant civility which was naturall unto her, and to testifie how glad she was to see him, she complained against all the company, for not telling her that a stranger of such excellent accomplishments was in Mytelene. It was but yesterday Madam, replyed Phylire, that a Brother of mine who hath been abroad in travells and now returned, did bring him unto me. Since he hath not been in a condition to present himselfe unto you, because he hath been a little sick, and since he stood in need of me to present him unto you when who was recovered, he desired it might be by my means that Clyrantes might know that admirable Lady of whom he hath heard talk of with so much esteem throughout all the Grecian Cities where he hath travelled. Did I affect Glory more then my own satisfaction. (replyed Sapho) doubtlesse I should be very sory to see a man who questionlesse will esteem me more before he is acquainted with me, then afterwards. But since I value not an ill gotten esteem, I will run the hazards of losing his, and see if I can purchase some part of his friendship in lieu of it. To destroy that esteem I have of you Madam (replyed this welcome stranger and smiled) is but an ill way to get my friendship: But Madam you are so assured to keep my esteem and purchase my friendship, that you care not what you say: And though you have yet spoken but little, yet that little is so well, as I am most confident that you speak alwayes so. Wave your commendations of me Sir (replyed Sapho very gallantly) until you find some reason for it: And therefore I beseech you, favour me so farre as not to flatter me until you shall find me worthy to be flattered by so well accomplished a man as your self, you are very froward Madam (replyed Clyrantes) in giving that glorious attribute so suddenly upon a Scythian. I have such a Reputation of knowing the merits of men at the first (replyed she) that a friend of mine sometimes saies, that I use to divine them, and therefore Sir do not suspect me of being too hasty in giving my judgment, since it is a peculiar Talent which I have, never to be mistaken in the choice of those, whom I think worthy of my commendations.
After th [...]s, all the company having part in this discourse, it was very pleasing. And since Sapho could not choose but wonder at the politnesse of Clyrantes, she asked him, how it was possible the politnesse of the Scythians should not be as much fam'd as of the Grecians, if they were all such as he was. My Country Madam, replyed he, is indeed so neare Scythia that some do take us and Scythians to be al one: However, I am not only a Scythian, but originally a Sauromate which is a Country something more rude, for the customs and manners of the Sauromates were savage, yet true it is, that though I am a Sauromate, yet I am of a Country which hath no tincture of their customes: And in distinction from the other, we are called the new Sauromates; yet we hold no commerce with them, for it being our policie to hold no correspondency with any Neighbours, least strange customs should [Page 149] corrupt our manners, we do all we can to live upon what our Country affords us, and not be beholding unto the commerce of other Nations.
This (replyed Sapho) hath some resemblance unto the Lacedemonian Constitution, which took extraordinary care, that no strange customs should be introduced unto their owne. But when you tel me, that you hold corespondency with no Neighbours, I must confesse, that I cannot understand, how that can be and questionlesse, it would be very delightfull unto all the company, if you would be pleased to take so much paines as to make us understand it, and to relate the Originall of a people, and the manners of their Country which must needs be very pleasant, if it produce men like unto your self. I beseech you Madam, (replyed Clyrantes) do not judge of my Country by me. And to render that Justice which I ought to pay unto it, I will tel you what it is: Be pleased to know Madam, that the Sauromates in general, which some do mingle with Scythians, and others distinguish, do stil retaine such odd customs, that their very sacrifices do speak the ferocity of their Nature. For in Lieu of building Temples unto Mars who is the God whom they adore, or erecting his statue, they heap up together a huge pile of wood, which they set on fire; and when it is consumed, they set a Sword in the midst of this great heap of Ashes, before which, they sacrifice those Prisoners which they take in Warre; yet the people have been much more cruel, and savage then now they are; for the Prince who at this day governs them, hath infused much civilitie into their Natures: But in those dayes, when they were more barbarous: Fortune having brought amongst them some Greeks, from whom the Challipides do say they are descended. they seated themselves in a place which borders upon the banks of the River Tanais, and they did so well indoctrinate some of the principall Sauromates, as they made them abhorre their own customs, and embrace theirs; in so much as one of those Grecians did insensibly get such Authority over all their Country, That the People did acknowledge one of them for their head. And the businesse came to that height, as when the Prince who then raigned over the Sauromates would oppose this Junction; he found it a very difficult businesse, for the commotion was so great and sudden, that it came to blowes. And this Greek being both valiant and prudent, the Sauromattan Prince could not vanquish him, but on the contrary, he was forced to let them have a petty Dominion, in the midst of his own Kingdom, and could not help it. For Madam, this famous Grecian assembled to gether all such as would voluntarily be his Disciples and Subjects, he drew them towards the confines of that place which he made choise of for their habitation, and wasted the Country so al about, that al seemed to be a desart Thus, after he had maintained Warrs, five or six years with much glory. the Prince of Sauromates was forced to make a Peace, and to suffer another Dominion to be in the heart of his own Kindome which was become a desart all about this new Dominion. But one of the conditions of this Peace was, that it should be equally forbidden both unto the ancient subjects of this Saucromatan Prince, and to those of this new Soveraign, to till the Lands which the last had laid wast, or to build any houses or Cotages upon it. And indeed Madam, this was so stricktly observed by our forefathers, that at this day it is three great dayes journey at the least over this Wildernesse: So as one of the best cultivated Countries in the world, is hedged in with another which is not at all inhabited. And it may be well said, that your Isle is not so without Neighbours as my Country is, though it be joyned to the continent. For it is an easier matter to passe between Mytilene into Phrygia then out of my Country unto any habitable place.
This description is so very particular, replyed Sapho; And the Idea of this little Dominion which hath no Neighbours, doth so please me: That if women were as well permitted to travell as men, I should be full of curiosity till I saw it. Your curiosity Madam, replyed Clirantes would be much better satisfied then you can imagine. For that illustrious Grecian our first Prince, did hedge about his Dominions with a desart, only to hedge in all the virtues, and the secrecies, which he would infuse into the soules of his Subjects, and to hinder the vices of his Neighbours, from spoiling his design: And having many able men with him, he established such good orders amongst them, as in a short time their manners were wholy changed: So as this Prince living unto a great age, he had time enough to [Page 150] establish his Lawes, and left a sonne prudent enough to maintaine them. He lived to receive so much satisfaction, as to see all the Arts and Sciences flourish in his Dominions, and his memory is so deare unto us, that we accompt our years, from the time of his raign. But I beseech you Sir, (said Sapho then unto him) satisfie us a little better concerning your customs. Since Madam (replyed Clirantes) they are almost all Graecian, I should but be tedious, since you know them better then I do. It will therefore suffice if I acquaint you with what we believe. And therefore be pleased to know Madam, that we think of the gods as you do. That except some reliques of ancient Sauromatique Ceremonies which our first King would not out of policy abolish, our sacrifices are like unto yours, our Townes, our houses, or Villages, are much resemblant unto yours here, but I must tell you that our Dominion is not so large; for there is but one great City, fifty Towns, and two hundred Villages: The truth is, that the City is one of the most pleasant places in the World; and if strangers were permitted egresse and regresse, its reputation would be fam'd over all the World, but since it is our custome to debarre them, the reputation of our Country is confined within its own limits, and the desarts which environ us; and we think our selves so happy in neither envying nor being envyed by others that we value not the Worlds ignorance of our happinesse. But I beseech you, (replyed Amithone) when one comes into your Country, are they not suffered to go out againe? They never admit of any but upon that condition, replyed Clirantes: For there are Guards kept at all the advances, and none are suffered to enter unlesse they be thought worthy. Indeed when any one hath a desire to dwell in our Country, the Guards stop them, and carry them to the Prince who transferres them unto certaine Officers appointed for that purpose, to be examined three Moneths together, to see their manners, and whether they know any thing worthy to be received amongst us, and after all this, they are to sweare never to go out of the Country without the Princes leave, who useth very seldome to grant it. They are also to sweare inviolably to observe all our Customes, after which they give them estates proportionable to their qualities and merit. But when any desires to travell who is a Native (replyed Sapho) must they have Licence also from the Prince? Yes Madam, replyed he, and much adoe to obtaine it, but when it is granted, and they returne againe into their Country, they must also submit unto the same examination for three Moneths, to try whether their travells have not corrupted their manners.
This constraint indeed is very vexatious, and once there was a rebellion about it, which ended not without a civill Warre: But at last the Prince then raigning banished all the Rebells out of his Dominions, and this great Collonie went and inhabited towards a River which is called Danabins, where they established the very same customes which caused their Rebellion, for they made a Desart also about their Dominions like unto ours.
But Madam, not to tyre you with tedious relations of the Pollicy and government of my country: Give me leave to acquaint you only with the present condition of our Court, for indeed Madam, we are governed by a young Queen, who hath only one Son, and who is one of the most rarely accomplished Princes in the world. Since the Arts and Sciences are amongst us, it cannot be otherwise imagined that our Court is well refined; for since we have long lived in peace, Gallantry is in its greatest lustre, Lawes are made peculiarly for Love, and there are punishments ordained for unfaithfull Lovers as well as for rebellious subjects: Indeed, fidelity is held in such veneration amongst us, as it is kept untill death: Those who marry for Love, have not Liberty to marry again, but are caused to make a publick declaration against it.
Moreover, it is as customary to go and comfort an absent Lover, as it is here to comfort one in mourning, and if one should frequent any diversions in the abscence of his Mistress, it would be so layed in his dish, as it is never seen amongst us.
We know some amongst us (replyed Sapho and blushed) who would think that custom to be very harsh: It is so generally used amongst us (replyed Clirantes) that there are none but do observe it; for since the first founder of our state intended to keep his Subjects in their Country, he would enchain them by Love.
[Page 151] Thus is Gallantry amongst us preserved as an effect of policy, our customes of Love are as ancient as our State; and almost as inviolable as our Religion: Thus cannot one change his Mistress, before he plead the causes of his inconstancy; nor can the mistress cast off her Lover, unless she declare the reason of her change. And since Peace, Idleness, and Plenty, do alwaies abound amongst us, nothing but Love is discoursed of in our conversations, so as those who come into our Country, must needs pass through the Country of the ancient Sauromates, they wonder, after they have seen so many salvage people, to find us so civilized and gallant.
Moreover, since our Founder was a Graecian, the Greek tongue is preserved amongst us in its purity, not that it is the vulgar language of the people; but there is not any of quality who understands it not, and there are some wits in our Court, whose lines the fair Sapha would not think unworthy of her reading. You have described your Country after such a pleasing manner (replyed Sapho) and you do so well confirm all you have said in its praises, by your own presence, that were it not so far distant from us as it is, I think I should quit my own, and go dwell there: After this, all the company had their voices in this discourse, and Clirantes did acquit himself so excellently well, as he got the esteem of every one. But Sapho knowing with a strange foresight, whatsoever passed in the hearts of such as she observed, she foretold at this very first visit, that Clirantes should fall in Love with Phylire, and Phylire should not hate Clirantes, if he stayed in their isle: And indeed, what hapned afterwards, did evidence that she was not mistaken.
In the mean time, though Sapho and Phaon were sincerely reconciled, yet there was still in Saphoes mind a strong disposition to suspect, that Phaon did not love her as she desired to be: Athys, Alces, and Nicanor, were not wanting to blow the coales of anger between them, for Phaon could not stirr any whither, but they informed Sapho, and if he was at any time pleasant out of her presence, she was immediatly told of it. And since it was not possible for him to alter his humour, he still diverted himself every where, and was grieved for nothing. When he was with Sapho, doubtless he thought himself the happiest man in the world, and joy did so visibly sparkle in his eyes, that one might easily see, that she was Queen Regent in his heart, but for all that, when he did not see her, he did not grieve, and since it was not possible he should disguise his humour, especially having the eyes of so many watchfull spies upon him, who did him all the ill offices they could, Sapho could not rest in any quietness. As soon as ever Phaon was out of her sight, she still enquired what he did, and hearing commonly, that wheresoever he was, still he was very merry, she grieved more than I am able to express, though my sister told me some of her complaints against Phaon: Was ever any destiny comparable unto mine (said she one day unto Cydnon) for one would imagine, that I should be very happy in being loved by one of the most accomplished, and most amiable men in the world, yet I should be much happier did he hate me; for his hatred would cure me of that affection I have unto him: But in this condition into which I am brought, I can neither hate him nor love him with any tranquile delight, and the worst is, my misery is without remedy; for if Phaon did not love me I should hope he might hereafter love me as I desire, if he were absolutely inconstant, I should hope he would return unto me, and if he hated me, I should hope his hatred would not be immortall; but he loves me certainly as much as he is able to love, and were he the same when he sees me not, that he is when he doth see me, then I should desire no more; yet for all that servent love which appears in all his Actions, in all his Words, and in all his Looks, I am nothing satisfied with him, so as I am the most miserable person in the world; for since the cause of my dislike can never change, it must of necessity follow, that I shall be alwaies miserable.
But (said Cydnon unto her) since you are pleased with him as long as he is in your sight, therefore I would advise you to see him and marry him, to the end he may never part from you.
Ah Cydnon (replyed Sapho) though I never had taken up a constant resolution never to marry, yet the humour of Phaon is enough to make me resolve it; for if in this condition we are, I be not able to make him greive when he sees me not, [Page 152] I shal not be able to do it, in a time, when perhaps I cannot make him pleased with the sight of me.
But Madam, (replied Cydnon) what remedy can you finde? I will endeavour (said she) to make Phaon as full of sorrow as my self, which if I could bring to pass, I should be more joyed, than I am able to express: I have seen him so sensible of jealousie (replied Cydnon) that if you would give him any cause of it, I am confident you would have those joyes you wish for. It is resolved upon (replyed Sapho) and I will from this day, begin to treat Nicanor so wel that since he cannot grieve when he sees me not, I wil perhaps make him grieve when he doth see me. And indeed Madam, the fair Sapho took up this resolution, and did put it in execution so handsomly, that Phaon grew extreamly jealous, and as sad as she could desire him to be.
At the first, she was much joyed, and all the complaints which he made unto her were so sweet and pleasing, that she would not so soon cause them to cease.
In the mean time, Nicanor could not tell from whence this his good fortune proceeded, and Alces did so wonder to see Sapho change for the worse, that he did absolutly return unto the fair Athys.
However, Phaon whom the pangs of jealousy tormented, knew not how this alteration in Sapho should come to pass, yet I told him, that his humour was the cause, but he would not beleive me; and he began to hate Nicanor so horridly, that he could not endure him. Thus was this poor Lover, both hated by his Rival, and not loved by his Mistress: And his misery was the more, because having a piercing Wit, he perceived, that indeed Sapho did not love him, but still loved Phaon, so as then looking upon her favours, as an artifice to augment the Love of his Rival, he grew more angry with Sapho then with Phaon, and this miscellany of of resentments produced such pleasant effects in the hearts of these three persons, as the like was never known. But at last these two incensed Lovers, not being able to hold out any longer, they quarrelled and fought, none knowing who got the advantage, because they were parted besore their combat ended: But Pittacus being a wise Prince and much grieved at the news of Tysanders death, he was so angred at this quarrell; that he banished them both for a year, to prevent any dangerous consequences: So as Phaon having dwelt more in Sicily, than in any other place, he resolved to spend the time of his Exile there, and Nicanor intended for Phrygia: But Phaon was so earnest with me to negotiate so for him, as Cyanon might help him to the sight of Sapho in private, before he departed, that I did what I could to satisfie him. Nor did I find much difficulty to effect it, for as Saphoes violent passion caused her to repent of making Phaon jealous, and she had as great a desire to pardon him, as he had to be pardoned, for knowing his humour, she thought that nothing could be more dangerous for her than absence▪ But at last, having intreated Cydnon to mediate with Sapho, and having obliged her to discover unto me that her friend had never favoured Nicanor, but only to make Phaon jealous, I told this welcom and important secret unto my friend, who at first would not beleive it, but as it is impossible to be long unperswaded of a thing which one wisheth, he thought that such a thing might be, and he resolved to clear his doubt by looking in the fair eyes of Sapho.
But at last their meeeing being to be at Cydnons house, their amity was renewed in the most tender manner in the world.
Well Madam (sayd Phaon unto her at first meeting) after you have made me the most jealous and most miserable man alive, do you now think me the most amorous of all your Lovers? and though my joyes in being loved by you could not perswade you, yet will my sorrows in being forsaken, work with you? had you been forsaken (replyed she) you should never have had opportunities to make your complaints unto me, for I would never have seen you: But Phaon, if you have suffered any torments thank your selfe, since if you had known how to Love, I should never have taught you by any so vexatious a course as jealousie:
Truly madam, said he unto her) your invention was most cruell. But I beseech you tell me? Did you never love Nicanor? and did you still love me? Let me tell you only half of what you aske (answered she and blusht) and guesse your self at the rest.
[Page 153] After this, Madam, these two incensed Pensons being insensibly pacified, they expressed themselves unto each other, in as passionate and tender termes that Love could invent: yet Saphoes joyes were not compleat, for the thought of this long and cruell absence did so disquiet her, that she did not fully enjoy the sweets of this pacification. (For said she unto Phaon) what can I expect from you and your humour? you I say, who are never moved but with what you see, and not at all with what you see not, for though it were possible you should continue faithfull during this long absence, yet it is impossible you should suffer as much as I do: and since you are capable of joyes and delights, within two dayes after you have left me, what will you do when you have been whole Moneths out of my sight, have, I not reason to feare the loosing of you, for in a long absence, I know nothing but sorrow which can be a faithfull guard over the heart of a Lover. Indeed love is so accustomed to grow amongst pleasures as it may well be said that joy is the first necessary disposition unto its growth. And since questionlesse your mind will be all upon delights as soon as ever you are out of my sight; I have reason to believe, that some new Love will take possession of your heart, and drive mine out.
Since Madam I never loved any comparably so much as you (replyed Phaon) because I never found any comparably so amiable as to merit my affection, I must ingeniously confesse that I never had any great commerce with Love, untill I saw you. The truth is, I have a hundred times perceived a passion begin to flash a little and extinguish againe in the very presence of her I thought to have loved, and indeed I have some dayes been so unlike my selfe from my first entrance into company untill I went out againe, that I knew not my selfe. I must confesse I had some desires which begun both to live and die, in one and the same day, not knowing well why I had them, nor why I had them no longer.
But as for you Madam, your power has a greater influence upon me, I love you after another manner, and when I do apprehend the bitterness of this horrid absence, I begin to prepare my self for infinite miseries, for this bitter absence is unlike all the rest; indeed, when you were in the Country. I alwaies expected your return so shortly, that it was no wonder if my hopes of soon seeing you should diminish my sorrows, and that my beleif of your loving me, was so joyfull unto me, as to keep me from grieving: But alas Madam, a whole year looks like a little eternity to me, and I shall go away in fear, that you are not fully perswaded of the great ness of my Love.
But Madam, I beseech you judge me not by what is paest, since certainly I never loved you, so much as I now do. Yes divine Sapho, I do love you more than ever, and more than ever I shall any other, and more than ever I can hope to be loved, I beleive it, (said she, and interrupted him) but for all that, in all appearances you do love me less, then you thought you did after you had been fifteen dayes out of my sight.
After this, returning a very plausible answer, he made a million of protestations of fidelity unto the fair Sapho, and in such a passionate manner, as she was perswaded that the heart of Phaon was changed, and that he would resent this long absence with abundance of sorrow; so as both of them used the most delicate and passionate expressions, that Love could possibly infuse into the hearts and tongues of two persons deeply in Love, and ready to depart from each other: Thus Sapho and Phaon parted, infinitely satisfied and reconciled: Phaon imbanqued the next morning; and Sapho went in the country, carrying my sister with her; but she went not thither, so much to enjoy the sweets of sollitude, as to hide the sorrows of her soul, and to avoid bidding adieu unto Nicanor who know too weH, that all the favour he received, belonged not unto him. But Madam, since Phaons departure, Sapho was all melancholly: Tis true, at her return unto Mytelene she contracted a very great league of friendship with Clyrantes, who was so extreamly in love with Phylire, as none could be more.
In the mean time, the company at Saphoes was nothing so pleasant as heretofore, because she was grown to very melancholly that she shunned as much as handsomness would permit her all occasions of delight, so all the good company broke up: For Alces at last married Ashys, who since her marriage did not frequent Saphoes.
[Page 154] Erinne, she fell sick of a languishing disease: my sister went into Phrygia with my Mother, who was of that Countrey, and Amithone went into the Country, so as I was the only One left, unto whom Sapho could talke with any confidence: And yet she had one deare friend whom I did not mention at the beginning of my relation, because she was absent from Mytelene during all the time of this long love: but since she returned the same day my sister departed, it may well be sayd she took her place: And certainly she was worthy of Sapho's friendship, though her fortunes were not so high as the rest of her friends.
Indeed, this Lady who was called Agelaste, by reason of her melancholly temper, had most rare qualities: her person did please much more then some could who were fairer then she: She was not tall, but handsome, her hair was brown, her eyes gray and sweet, her face a little long, her nose something high, her mouth pretty, her complexion well, but a little pale; her teeth white, her neck admirable, her hands and arms faire, and her Physiognomy so wise and modest, that every one had a good opinion of her at the very first sight.
Agelaste also played upon the Lute most admirably: But I alwayes most esteemed her for her wit, her discretion, her goodnesse, and her fidelity were so great, that one might trust her with any thing in the world: Moreover, though she was naturally melancholly: Yet she would be very pleasant in company, especially with her intimate friends, for unlesse with them she spoke little: Agelaste then, being as I have described her, she was inseparable from Sapho, since all the rest of her friends had left her: And Phylire also did visit her much oftner then she did before: The truth is, Sapho stood in need of some comfort at that time, for you must know that Cynegire with whom she lived, and to whom she was much obliged, dyed: and a few dayes after she heard that her Brother, of whom she alwayes heard bad newes, was faln in love with a Slave called Rhodope, whom Esope also had loved, and that the passion of Charaxes had been so extream, that after he had enfranchised her, his love of her had quite ruined him.
Also Sapho understood that Rhodope, whose beauty and art had rendered her more famous in Aegypt, then her vertue had, she sent him back to Mytelene in a most lamentable condition. Moreover, the death of Tysander had so altered the Court of Pittacus, that people did not live in that Citie as formerly they did; yet Sapho was so happy as to finde a satisfaction in her selfe without seeking it in others.
In the mean time, the greatest inquietude which she had being Phaons absence: she was forced (though she did not affect to have any Confident) to let me talke unto her sometimes, for I was the conveyer of all the Letters between Phaon and her; yet it was not possible to have many Letters from him, which was no small addition to her inquietudes: But Madam, she was much more restlesse and unquiet a little after, when she receiving a packet from Phaon which I brought in all hast unto her, she found besides her Lovers letter, a Note directed unto him, written with a womans hand; but so scurvily writ, that it was evident, she who writ it was not guilty of over much wit. In the mean time, it appeared by it that Phaon had writ many Letters unto her, that he was much in her favour, and that he had given her severall Serenades: And indeed Madam, I understood afterwards, that though Phaon did love Sapho most passionately, yet he would sometimes solace himselfe with that faire Foole whom he had formerly loved in Sicily. Not that there was any comparison between those thoughts which he had of Sapho and this faire Sycilian; for his passion was most zealous and servent to the first of these, and his engagements to the other might rather be called a musing, then any reall affection. However, he did divert himself as much as if he had not been absent from that person whom he loved with most passionate tendernesse. But to return unto Sapho, you may imagine Madam, how she was surprized to find in Phaons packet this note directed unto her, and a Note stuffed with the most fond, simple gallantry in the world: indeed, I think that never such a piece was seen, yet the Character was faire enough, but that served only to render it ridiculous; for the Orthography was so bad, the sense so shallow, the expressions so poor, and the order of words so confused, and opposite unto all rules of eloquence and reason, as it is a wonder how any woman of quality could possibly write after [Page 155] such a rate. But the oddest thing was, that the Letter which Phaon writ unto Sapho was the most elegant, the most gallant and passionate peece that ever was seen: so as it was not credible, that any man who writ so well, could hold any particular correspondency with a woman who writ so ill: Yet it appeared by this Note, that Phaon did often see her, and that he had given her severall Serenades as I told you before: And I assure you Sapho was so sadly astonished at this cruell adventure, that not being able to hide her sorrows, she communicated them unto Agelaste, and me.
Did ever any see such unparalled weaknesse as this in your friend? (said she unto me) I know that when he sees me, he loves me as much as he is capable of: I know also, that then he thinks himselfe unable to take delight in the company of any other person: and yet it appars by this Paper, that he bears some kind of affection unto the veryest fool in the world, and that hee mingles her Letters and mine indifferently together, though I think mine have some order of sence in them, and those of his new Mistress none. Since I knew the humour of Phaon better then Sapho did, I did my friend the best office I could, and endeavoured to perswade this admirable woman, that the heart of this Lover had no share in any of these pleasures which he took during his absence, and that Phaon lived as he did, rather to look upon these trifles, then to divert himself in them.
Ah Democedes (said she unto me) a grieved Lover cannot find a heart to look upon such trifles: And if Phaon loved me as he should do, the most pleasing Serenades would never divert him: he would be so indisposed to give them unto others as he doth, that he wouold shun the place where others give them: And therefore I am resolved to love him no longer, but will hate my selfe▪ if I cannot hate him. It was in vain for me to protest unto Sapho that Phaons love did not change, and that it was only an effect of his humour, wherein his heart had no share, for she would not believe it: so as in the rapture of her sorrows, she answered Phaon in a very singular manner, for she sent him back the note which he had unawares sent unto her, and writ only these words.
SAPHO unto PHAON.
SInce you have contracted amity with a Lady, whose Letter I have sent you backe, resolve to breake off ours; for I thinke it an unworthy thing in me, to let a man have any share any longer in my heart, who hath withdrawn his owne from mee to give it unto another, so much unworthy of himselfe.
This Letter doubtlesse was enough to enforce sorrow into the soule of Phaon: but to tell you truly, I writ him another which grieved him to the very heart of his soule; for I chid him so home for his levity, and did so terrifie him with his likelihood of loosing Sapho's affection, that as soon as he had read her Letter and mine, he became a Convert: when he considered that Sapho perhaps would withdraw her heart from him, he easily resolved to quit the lesser delights to preserve the greater: so as knowing no better way to reconcile himselfe unto Sapho, then by quitting Sicily, and coming to her, he resolved to come disguised unto Lesbos, and accordingly he came in a Merchants Ship: And landing at a Port in a corner of our Isle, he concealed himselfe with a friend who had a house very near unto that of Sapho's in the Countrey. He was no sooner there, but enquiring where she, and I was, but he understood that I was gone a journey of fifteen dayes, and that Sapho was at her own house vvithout any other company then her dear Agelaste: so as losing no time, and knovving her usuall hours of vvalking unto that Fountaine [Page 156] vvhich formerly I mentioned, he vvent and hid himselfe in a little thicket of Trees vvhich grevv about it, leaving his horse some fifty paces off vvith a Lacquey: he had not vvaited there a quarter of an houre but he favv Sapho and her friend appeare; and savv her so sad, that as insensible as he vvas of sorrovv, his heart was tendered: 'Tis true, the thought of being so tenderly loved by the most excellent woman in the world, did make him more joyed at it, then Sapho's sadnesse made them melancholly. However, he would give her time to sit downe before he would shew himselfe, to the end he might a little digest those sorrows which this fight caused in him. But as it chanced, these two Ladies did sit down upon a seate of Grasse with their backs towards Phaon, so as he could easily hear what they said; for the Grove was very thick in that place, and he crept so gently, that they could neither heare nor see him. They were no sooner set, but Sapho began to speak.
But my deare Agelaste (said she unto her) there is so little appearance in what you tell me, that I know not whether I should believe it, and therefore I desire to know all the particulars of this adventure. They are very easily known (replyed she) For yesterday in the afternoon I understood from the mouth of Phylire, that Clirantes (whose quality is so great that he is neer Cousen to the Queen of Sauromates) is so much in love with her, as that he will marry her, if she will follow his fortunes, and go into his Country. So as Phylire who loves him no less than he her, and is freely in his own dispostion, she is resolved upon it, and ready to follow this Illustrious Sauromate. But since she desires the businesse may be done without any noise, she imparted the secret unto me, and willed me to desire that you would be pleased to let them be married in your house; which done, they would presently after depart, and go into that Countrey, where there are such severe Laws against unfaithfull Lovers. I wish with all my heart (replyed Sapho) that the inconstant Phaon were there also, that he might be punished for his levity. And Agelaste (continued she sighing) since I know you have no great businesse at Mytelene, but all places in the world are alike unto you, why may not we two follow Phylire into the happy Country of Clirantes? For I must confess I cannot endure living in Mytelene.
But Madam (replyed Agelaste) as long as Phaon is in your heart, I would not advise you to go into a Country where he cannot be admitted: As long as I am not in Phaons heart (replyed Sapho) I should be glad to be in any place where I may never see him: and therefore my deare Agelaste, if you be able to follow my Fortune, we will both of us follow Phylires: For truly there is nothing in Mytelene which doth not displease me: Charaxes is come to persecute me, all the world wearies me, I shall never see Phaon there: Or if I do, I shall see him inconstant, so as I shall think him unworthy of my affection. Oh Madam (cryed he out, and came out of the place where he was hid, and kneeling down before her) Do not use the most faithfull Lover alive so unjustly: and to testifie that I am such a one, I beseech you let me go with you into that happy Countrey where all unfaithfull Lovers are so severely punished: For since I shall never be absent from you there, I shall not feare the Laws which are made against such as divert themselves in the absence of their Mistresses: Is it possible Phaon (said Sapho) that you should be so impudent as to speak thus after your last crime? Yes Madam (said he unto her) the love of my soule unto you hath taught me so much impudence, that I dare beseech you to do unto me as I do understand Phylire intends unto Clirantes: For Madam, it is as certain as that the Heavens are above us, that I am the most faithfull Lover upon Earth: Carry me into any place where I can never go from you, and you will find me the most constant Lover that ever lived: I can never confesse that my weakneffes did ever merit the name of inconstant: For Madam, I have adored you every minute of time since I first knew you: I must confesse that I have a soule which is addicted unto pleasures, and vvhich flies from any sad thoughts: But for all that, since I had any apprehensions of loving you, I have quitted all that you can imagine may steale avvay my heart, and upon my knees I beg the favour never to let me leave you againe: I knovv that I cannot vvith safety appeare in Mytelene, and that I am to continue yet a long time banished: But if it be so that you do love me, you will also banish your selfe [Page 157] for the love of me: For the very truth is Madam, I will never be absent from you againe; and I am so fully resolved upon it, that though I were sure Pittacus would arrest me to morrow, yet would I not stirre, for I had rather be his prisoner then not your slave Madam, and I would endure any torment in the world, rather then hazard the loosing you. Try Madam (said hee unto her) whether you are able to undertake a bold resolution: I have left Sicily you see, as soon as I saw there was a necessity of justifying my selfe in your opinion: Quit therefore Lesbos Madam without regret, to the end you may be as sure of me; I will not limit you Madam, unto any place upon earth, since there is none wherein I cannot finde a happinesse, so I may see you, and so you be unto me as formerly you have been, and as I hope you will be still, notwithstanding all my imbecilities. But Phaon (said Sapho then) is it possible you should think what you speak? and can I ever think that a man who is so familiar with such a simple person as she whose Letter I sent you, can ever affect me who does nothing resemble her? Tell mee Phaon, did you love her? Did you cease loving me? Do you love me yet? or do you now now begin to have some affection to mee? must I look upon that love which I see in your eyes as a faithfull love? as a feigned love? or as a newly revived love? Look upon it Madam (replyed he) as a Love mortall which may sometime hide it selfe, but can never extinguish: And therefore for your owne tranquility Madam, and for my happinesse let us make our fortunes inseparable.
After this, Sapho desired him to make an ingenuous confession of his last weaknesse, and to relate all his adventures in Sicily, which he did with so much sincerity, that Sapho was satisfied. Yes Madam (said he unto her) I will confesse, that finding there a person whom I loved before I knew you; but Madam, she did afford me only imperfect joyes, and my heart was never wholly engaged: I have also received from her some signes of tender affection; but I was without any trouble, ever ready to quit them as soon as you called me back.
The truth is Madam, I was a little weak, but not inconstant: my eyes 'tis true did find that you were not the only faire one upon Earth; but my heart never found any whom it could truly love but only the most admirable Sapho. And to give you security against any future weaknesse, I beseech you make choise of what desart Isle you please where we may live together: For my part, I professe that you are my All: and so I may see you, I desire nothing else. Though I did nothing but heare you speak, yet would my felicity be great: the charms of your wit, without being seconded by those of your beauty, are enough to render me most happy: All other persons that ever I met withall are so ill practised in the Art of obliging, that their greatest favours are but trifles in comparison with the least of yours.
After this, Phaon used many more most tender and passionate expressions unto the admirable Sapho▪ who answered him a long time as if she would not pardon him: but at last her anger cooling whether she would or no, she did not make him dispair: but taking a medium between these two extreams, she permitted him to hope for a pardon & promised to meet him the next morning in the same place.
But Madam, why should I hold you so long from the end of this adventure? Sapho spent the whole night with Agelaste in considering what to resolve upon; and upon serious debate she concluded that she could not live happily upon the earth without the love of Phaon, and that she could not assure her selfe of his affection as long as he was from her: So that after she had well considered how to order all her businesse concerning her estate, she resolved to put Phaon unto a great tryall of his love by obliging him to follow her in her design of going with Phylire, and by obliging him to follow her upon certainties never to marry her: And hast being requisite in the businesse, because Phylire was to be marryed within eight dayes, and to depart the morrow after the solemnization; Sapho acquainted Phaon the next day with her resolutions: At the first he liked the proposition of going with her into the Countrey of the new Sauromates very well, but he found it a hard chapter to promise he would never importune her unto marriage: But at last, since she gave him leave to love her, and promised to love him, he promised to do what she pleased: so as after this, Sapho thought her selfe the happiest person in the world, and Phaon also thought himselfe the happiest Lover [Page 158] upon earth, since Agelaste had neither Father nor Mother living, but had lost all which could render Lesbos delightfull unto her, she followed the fortune of Sapho who left her own Country with as much joy as Phaon had, to be in her favour And they both of them so satisfied each other by this resolution, that they were most glad to be quit of it. I was not at Mytelene when this passed: My Sister was in Phrigia, and though we had been with Sapho, I believe she would not have imparted her design unto us, least we should oppose it.
The greatest motive unto her forwardnesse in this designe was, that knowing there was but one City in all this little Dominion of the new Sauromates, Phaon could not be often from her, so as being satisfied with his love in her presence, she hoped that place would yield her much content, since he could not possibly be long absent from her.
In the meane time, Agelaste having acquainted Phylire and Clirantes with the designe of Sapho and Phaon, they were extreamly glad of it, for that Illustrious Sauromate, did know, that all those Persons would easily be admitted into his Country. Also considering the credit which he had with the Queen, he made no question but all this good company would be extreamly well entertained. There great comfort in this journey was, that they had no thoughts to take for their subsistance. For Clirantes first assured them, that his estate was sufficient to maintaine them all in full luster, and besides this, It was the custome of the Country for the Prince to give such estates unto such strangers as are received, as is fitting for their quality and merit, and all this, Philires brother did know of a certainty.
In the mean time, since Sapho did depart with intentions never to returne againe, she disposed of her estate as if she were going to dye, and left Letters which contained her will, in the hands of an old Kinswoman she had with orders not to open them untill a month after: After which, the marriage of Clyrantes and Philire was secretly solemnized: And the next morning all this good company embarqued, with intentions to passe the Bosphorus of Thrace, and to enter into the Euxine Sea afterwards to land about the Maeotidan lake. But they were no sooner imbarqued, then there did rise a Tempest which changed their course, for after it had tossed them from place to place, and from shore to shore, it cast them upon Epirus at the foot of a great Rock which is beaten upon by the Leucadian Sea, and upon which is built the Temple of Apollo; This Rock hath also another thing very observable, for it is said that there and from thence Deucalion, when he was in love in Thessalia did throw himselfe into the Sea, and cooled his passion.
However, after all this good company had rendred thanks unto the gods there adored, and after their ship was repaired, they imbarqued and steered their course very prosperously, as Meriontes told me. But Madam, before I tell you any further what he related unto me, I must acquaint you with the wonder of all them in Mytelene when Saphoes Cosen opened the Letters, in which she had declared how her Estate should be disposed of: For when she was gon; she colloured her journey with the accomplishment of a vow to Diana, who had a Temple some three days journey from Lesbos.
But when they saw she disposed of her Estate as one who would never return again, they kew not what to think.
In the mean time, out of her generosity, she left almost her Estate unto Charaxes, though they were at great difference; as for all those things which were in her closet, she bequeathed them amongst her friends, not mentioning her design, nor the place unto which she was gone: So as every one thought and spoke according to their fancies. Since some reports went a broad, that she was displeased with Phaon for fallingin Love in Scicily. and since they knew not that he was returned unto her, some beleived that she was gone unto him, others said that she cast her selfe away, and indeed this last beleif was the most generall, though not the most probable. For since it was known that Sapho was at her house in the country, before she imbarqued; the Plebeans, who always love wonders, and often beleive them sooner than probalities, did say, that as she was by the side of that pleasant Fountain which I mentioned a Nagade appeared unto her, who did bid her go unto Epirus, and that she should throw her self into the sea, in a place where a Ducalion formerly had thrown himself, and that she should there be cured of her passion, [Page 159] as he was of his, adding afterwards, that Sapho did immediatly obey the Nagade, that she went unto Epirus, that she did precipitate her self, and that death in the end cured her passion. But the truth was, the more understanding sort of people, did not credit any such far fetcht unlike stories; for Sapho was known to be wiser than so: Also after I was returned unto Mytelene, I made such exact inquisition, that at last, this friend of Phaons with whom he had concealed himself some certain dayes, did discover unto me that Phaon had been with him, that he had seen Sapho very often, and that he was gone away with her, but since he knew no further, I was still ignorant of my friends design: However, I was so far satisfied, that I knew Sapho was not dead, and that Phaon was happy in her favour, for I might well imagin, that they would never have gone together, unless they had been very well reconciled. But the passage most observable was, that though Phylire, her brother, and Agelaste were vanished as well as Sapho, yet they were not so much as mentioned; for Saphoes adventure did so take up their spirits and minds, that they talked of none but her.
In the mean time, the poor Nycanor was a gainer by this accident; for when he heard that Sapho had drowned her self, because she thought Phaon perfidious he cured himself of his passion, thinking it not fit to love the memory of one whose love was so extream to another:
As for Damophile, she was the only one who rejoyced at Saphoes ruin, because then she thought her self the only wise woman in Mytelene.
But Madam, after my sister was returned from Phrygia, we discovered that Clirantes had marryed Phylire before they departed, so as remembring we heard from Clirantes an admirable description of his Countryes Laws, we imagined, that it was thither unto which Sapho, Phaon, and Agelaste were gon, and so confidently, as to satisfie my self, I underdertook this voyage with Leontidus, whom I met.
In the mean time, I may say that this journey did prosper neither well nor ill: For I understood by the valiant Meriontes, that Sapho and Phaon were received by the Sauromartan queen, with more honours than ever were done unto any strangers, that she was lodged in the Queens own Pallace, that Phaon was lodged in Glirantes his house, that they were both of them the delights of that Court, that Phylire is there in high esteem, and that Agela [...]e hath gotten the hearts of all the Gallantry. But that which is most considerable, Phaon is at this present, the most faithfull Lover in the world, and Sapho the happiest person upon Earth, for she is adored by all the Court, it is she who distributes all the favours which the Queen of Sauromates confers upon any; and she sees Phaon continue constant in most servent and everlasting affections. And yet they had a little quarrell since they came thither, for since there are Laws and Rules for Love, and since there are Judges who study nothing but what relates unto that passion, Phaon commenced a suit against Sapho, because she would nor permit him to hope ever to marry her: Sapho, she put in her answer, and pleaded her own cause, as Phaon did his, and both did it most admirably well: But in conclusion, Sapho did make it so evidently appear, that the way to love eternally with equall flames, was never to marry, that the Judges gave sentence against Phaon, and condemned him not to urge her any more by way of suite; declaring, that it was a favour which he ought to expect from her self, and that he would esteem himself the most happy Lover in the Earth, and being loved by the most excellent person in the world, and by a person who would not deny him the enjoyment of her self, but only because she would always enjoy his heart; so as after this, they lived in the sweetest tranquility that is imaginable: But what is most cruell for me, is, that Meriontes told me, Sapho and Phaon were so afraid, least any should come from Mytelene to disturb their happiness, as they have obliged the Queen, strictly to forbid the reception of any strangers into that country for ten years, so as my journey is stopped. Thus whilst Sapho is enjoying the good fortune which she deserves, she is beleived to be dead throughout all Greece, and will ever be so beleived; for I understand that the ship which carried them, did perish in its return.
Thus whilst this famous Lesbian is doubtless every day composing most gallant, and passionate fancies in Verse, all the illustrious wits of Greece, are writing Epitaphes unto her glory.
[Page 160] Democedes having ended, all the company was so full of wonder, that none were able to impose silence upon themselves, and if the business of the invincible Cyrus had not urged his return, the applauds of Sapho had taken up all those illustrious persons a longer time. But as the fervent love of Phaon and Sapho did revive his Love of Mandana in his heart, he hasted away, to see if Anacharsis had sent any good news from Thomyris, therefore after many a complement unto the Queen of Pontus, and the Princess of Armenia, he bade them adieu, but to the great grief of those Princesses, Tygranes, and Spitridates followed Cyrus, and had not time enough to shew the sorrows which they had to leave them, yet Spitridates took an opportunity to draw Araminta aside, and expressed so much aflection unto her, that she could not choose but shew some of her tenderness unto him. I perceive Madam (said he unto her after many other things) that I never find you, but I presently loose you again, and I no sooner begin my joyes at the seeing of you; but I must grieve for parting from you. But my comfort is (added he) we shall be so neer, that I shall every day let you know my sufferings, as I send you the victories of Cyrus.
Since there is no victory, but may cost too dear, (replyed she most obligingly) I shall never be at rest: For truly Spitridates, we are both of us born under such unhappy Planets, that doubtless our Fears ought to be greater than our Hopes, However Madam, (said Spitridates) I shall not loose my hope, of being loved by you, if the Gods be pleased I should live after the victory of Cyrus, or else of being lamented, if they are resolved I should perish in the War, so death not forbidding my hope, you Madam I hope will give me leave to preserve it: For I find it so sweet to be assured I shall receive testimonies of your affection living or dead, that no thought can be more pleasing unto me. And therefore Madam, that these thoughts may never abandon me, do me the honour to tell me, that I have reason to entertaine them: you may be so assured of them Sir, answered she, as you would do me an injury to ask me new assurances. Hope therefore Spitridates, as muchas you can for happinesse (said she and blushed) and I will in your absence both hope and wish the sight of you againe.
After this, Cyrus having done all his civilities, Spitridates must leave A [...]iminta; And Tigranes must content himselfe to tell his faire Onesile in two words, that his heart was full of sorrow to part so soone.
Cyrus in his returne to the Camp called Leontidus to him; with whom he thought that he had not talked enough concerning Thrasibulus, yet he talked not to him all of that Prince, for he sked him of his love, and asked him the meaning, of that which he said, when he assured him, that he had no mind to expose himself unto the most dangerous of all jealousies; Sir, replyed Leontidas, I can quickly give you satisfaction in that: For after I had been jealous of my friends, of my enemies, of my equalls, of inferiours of superiours, I found that Alcidamea who had lost her beauty, did recover it againe, and I found her so favourable, that I saw I could marry her But Sir, when I saw my self in this condition I perceived also, that I should be still jealous after I had marryed her, for seeking about for her reason why she should so suddenly change her thoughts of me, I found out that she lodged very neer one of her ancient Lovers. Also I was resolved, that if I did marry her, to carry her into the Country the very next day. So as perceiving in my heart a disposition to be a jealous Husband, as I had ever been a jealous Lover. I conceived that I should have lived a most miserable life, if I had married Alcidamea, therefore out of my feares of hating her and being hated my selfe, I thought it better not to marry her; for I may cease to be jealous in ceassing to love, but when I am a Husband and jealous, then Jealousie will not cease with the passion which caused it; but this thing cal'd Honour which causeth so much jealousie as well as love causeth jealousie to last till death, and would never let me live in quiet. For there is no reconciliations of Husbands and Wives, as there is between Lovers and Mistresses, the one hath a thousand sweets in it, and the other nothing but quarrells and persecutions. And therefore Sir, having had tryall of all sorts of jealousies, and apprehending this kind to be the worst of all, I am resolved never to try it but have broke off with Alcidamia, never to renew againe.
If you had bin as much in love as you were when you thought Policrates loved your [Page 161] Mistresse (replyed Cyrus) you would not have been so foreseeing, nor would you have refused the enjoyment of her: But certainly so many severall sorts of Jealousies have damped your passion, and being then more prudent then amorous, perhaps you knevv that Alcidamia vvould alvvays give you causes of jealousie.
However it be Sir (added he) I am fully resolved never to love any thing but glory: and knowing I could meet with it no where so soon as with you, I am come to dye in your service, or at least to fight for the liberty of the Princesse Mandana.
Cyrus having returned a very civill answer unto Leontidus, he talked a little with Democedes concerning the most admirable Sapho, and so afterwards unto every one which followed, especially unto Spitridates and Tigranes, whom he lodged next unto his own Tent: And to testifie his confidence in them, he shewed them the next mornnig the manner of his Encampment; and conferred with them of his design to assault the Enemy as soon as the Truce was ended: In order to that, he observed unto them the scituation of the ground, & all the advantages which might be taken, every one giving his opinion and his reason for it. But since the opinion of Spitridates did not concur with that of Cyrus, who thought it better to go unto the Enemy another way then that which Cyrus shewed him, he intended silently to go and observe the severall Quarters nearest hand, and the rather, because the Truce did afford him the liberty.
On the other side, whilst Anacharsis was negotiating in vain with Thomyris and Arcantes, Aripithes was extreamly angry, because the Queen of Massagettes did use him so ill, so as his fancy was full of violent resolutions. And indeed, the Prince conceiving that if Cyrus were dead, then he might sooner gain the heart of that Queen, he resolved that either he, or his Rivall should perish. In order to this, he stole away in the night from the Camp of Thomyris, and went towards that of Cyrus, disguised in the habit of a Persian, the better to passe un-observed amongst the Troops of that Prince: For knowing his generosity and courage, he was perswaded, that as he had fought with the King of Assyria, and offered the like unto Ariantes, so he would not deny him the same honour: So as taking his way, he came about Sun-rising unto a little hill which was between the two Camps, where Spitridates was also arrived, the better to observe the severall grounds which he thought most fit to seize upon to fight the Enemy with advantage, and to the end that afterwards he might better perswade Cyrus. In the mean time this Prince having none with him but one Squire, as Aripithes had, they met upon equall termes.
Spitridates seeing Aripithes in the habit of a Persian, did not at first take him for an Enemy: But Aripithes being mistaken by the resemblance which Spitridates had with Cyrus; he no sooner saw him, but supposing him to be his Rivall, he was so transported with fury, that his eyes were not able to discern the little difference which was between those two Princes. Indeed, he thought that Cyrus had something more high and noble in his Aire than Spitridatee had, though Spitridates had as brave a presence as any man in the world. The soule of Aripithes then being swelled with all the animositie of a despised Lover, he drew his sword; and advancing towards him whom he looked upon as the only Eclipser of his glory and felicity: Though I never saw you since you bore the name of Artamenes (said he unto him in the Assyrian Language, which Spitridates understood) yet I can know you to be Cyrus, and vvill look upon you as one that shall be a Victime offered unto the love of Aripithes, who cannot be happy as long as you are living.
Were I indeed Cyrus (replyed Spitridates, and went back apace to draw his Sword) the event of the Combate would not be dubious, but your defeat would be infallible: Yet though I am not so valiant as he, yet perhaps I shall let you see that I shall easily overcome any Enemy of his: Aripithes being all fury, did but confusedly understand what Spitridates said: but in lieu of answer, he fell upon that Prince who received him with so much vigour, that Aripithes had not leasure to undeceive himselfe of his errour, that it was Cyrus whom he fought with:
Spitridates looking upon his Antagonist as an Enemy unto Cyrus, he fought [Page 162] with as much feare as if he had been his own particular Enemy, so as Aripithes found his valour too weak to vanquish such an Enemy: insomuch as fury being the absolute mistresse of his mind, he exposed himselfe in such a desperate manner as it was easie to see, he was resolved either to vanquish, or dye, and wished for no more but either victory, or death: Yet he fought so valiantly, that he moved Spitridates to esteem him, though he knew him not; for he saw, that if this fierce Enemy had managed all his advantages well, he had found him a hard taske to overcome: Not but that the blows of Aripithes did hit, and pierced the armes of his Enemy in many places: but Fortune did enfeeble the arme of Aripithes, purposely to preserve Spitridates, who had only one slight hurt in his left arme; whereas on the contrary, Spitridates could not touch Aripithes, but he sangu [...]h'd his armes, and wounded him in so many places, that he saw the victory was not like to be his; nor could he hope for any help from his Squire, for he was also vanquished by him who belonged unto Spitridates.
Things being thus, Cyrus knowing that Spitridates was gone to view the places which raised their Contest: and desiring to see them again, he arrived at the place where this Duel was fought: so as knowing Aripithes at first, and doubting but that he was mistaken in the resemblance of Spitridates unto him, he went hastily to them to let this Sauromate Prince see his errour, and to make him repent his assaulting a Prince who was not his Enemy. And adding words unto his Presence, Aripithes knew him; and was so astonished, that he recoyled some paces back to consider upon the strange adventure. After that he plainly saw his mistake, had I seen the blood of my Enemy (said he unto Spitridates) I should not repent had I let it out as I do of yours; nor should I ever have complained of that which I have lost, or of my being vanquished: I am so fully perswaded, valiant stranger (replyed Spitridates modestly) that it was the name of Cyrus which vanquished you, that I do not pretend unto the glory of our Combate, since it is rather the fortune of that Princes Arms which are invincible, then my own valour which kept me from being vanquished. No (said Cyrus) since you have supplyed my place, the valour of Aripithes found greater resistance then he could have from me: But valiant Enemy (said he and turned towards him) since you have a desire I should be yours, I am well contented to bee so, though I am not your Rivall. And to stay untill you are in a condition to finde the difference between the valour of Spitridates and mine, let me conduct you into one of my Tents, that you may be dressed with as much care as if you were the best of my friends: No, replyed Aripithes fiercely, for generous Enemies ought not to receive any thing from each other but death. And because I will not lessen my hatred by receiving of benefits, I will refuse your offer, and desire no other favour from you, but to let me return unto the Camp of Thomyris.
Though I might very well treat you as a Spye (replyed Cyrus) since you are found in a disguised habit during the Treaty: Yet I will not, but will let you have a Coach to carry you where you please. Aripithes at first refused this last favour, but at last perceiving he was not able to ride, he was forced to accept of it: And Cyrus sent immediately to seek a Coach and Chyrurgeons, and left one to helpe his Squire to hold him up, for he was not able to stand by himselfe. Spitridates at parting gave him a very civill Complement, unto which the other answered with a kind of surly civility. After which, this Prince followed Cyrus, to perswade him unto his opinion concerning the ground which they had viewed.
In the mean time, since he had received a little hurt in his left arme, Cyrus would see him dressed, though Spitridates would not have him: and since the armes of that Prince were cut in severall places, Cyrus sent him those rich Armes which he wore the first time when the forty Cavalliers conspired to kill him, and since wore upon severall great occasions. Since they were very rich and magnificent, the Present was worthy both of the giver and Receiver.
In the mean time, the five dayes of Treaty being expired, and Anacharsis had effected nothing, this sage Scythian was forced to leave Thomyris unto her bad destinies, and came unto Cyrus. But it is observable, that before he departed, he understood how that Queen hearing how Aripithes was returned wounded, and that he went from the Camp with a design of killing Cyrus, she was so incensed against [Page 163] him, that she commanded him to retire; for though she much complained against Cyrus, yet she did not wish his death: so as not being able to hide her angry resentments: and Aripithes hearing of them, he was so grieved, that he dyed within twenty four hours after. But Thomyris was not long in this mind; for so it chanced, that on the last day of the Treaty, Cyrus writ unto Mandana, and sent her Letter by a disguised servant, to the end Gelonide might convey it unto that Princesse: This Letter in lieu of coming to the hands of Gelonide, did fall into the hands of Thomyris; for the servant being stopped by the way by some accident or other, he came not to the place where the Queen was untill an hour after the Treaty ended: but it did so perplex the heart of this Princesse, that hatred took the place of Love: For Cyrus thinking this would be the last Letter which he should write unto Mandana, before the end of the Warre, which could never end before either his death, or the liberty of his Princess, he writ it with un-imaginable passionateness concerning her, and with extream bitternesse concerning Thomyris.
The truth is, all the most tender expressions which the most zealous love could invent, were included within this Letter, which came to the hands of this Queen whose spirits were so much incensed at it, that if Cyrus had promised her some eternall affection, and had by this given her some testimonies of his inconstancy, she could not possibly have been more incensed against him: So as thinking upon nothing but Warre and Revenge, and all her Forces being in as good a posture as she could wish, she prepared for a Combate.
Ariantes on his side, seeing that a Battle must be fought to decide this great businesse upon which depended the happinesse or misery of so many illustrious persons, began to think upon all manner of stratagems which might ruine Cyrus: and finding that it would be a marvellous disadvantage to him, if Thomyris could get the Fort of Sauromates into her power, because then if the Army of Cyrus were engaged on this side the woods, he had no place of retreat in case he were overcome: and therefore he imagined all manner of wayes how to bring this great design about.
Cyrus on the other side being much perplexed that Thomyris by her frivolous Negotiations had retarded his designs, he did begin to think how he might by his diligence gayn that time which had been lost: Yet he had the satisfaction of being commended by the wise Anacharsis, who declared him free from all the sadd consequences of this War. After which, he went unto the Queen of Pontus, and the Princess of Armenia at the Fort of Sauromates.
In the mean while, how desirous soever both sides were of fighting, yet it was a long time before any assaults were given; because each side watching for advantage, and unwilling to hazard a definitive Battle rashly, they would not fall on without some appearance of it.: But in the interim of all these great preparations, Mandana lived in such a generall ignorance as that she knew nothing; For neither the Princesse of Bythinia, nor Istrina, nor Arpasia did see her, so as she had no other consolation but what she had from Doralisa and Martesia. Yet she had so much satisfaction as to imagine, that if things went not on the side of Cyrus, they would tell her: For Thomiris and Ariantes used always to let her know the worst, but concealed the best news from her: And since it was many dayes since they told her any thing, she concluded by infallible consequence, that the side of Cyrus had the advantage: Thus her hopes that Cyrus would be victorious, and she ere long released, did afford her soule much tranquility.
But at last, after long watching for advantages on both sides, both Cyrus and Thomyris resolved to give Battle: And though Cyrus could have wished a little longer delay, because he knew that a very great force vvhich Ciaxares sent him vvas very nigh: Yet since he never in his life refused fighting vvhen any occasion vvas offered, he could not novv recoile: so as every one in both Armies preparing for a Fight, one might have seen the very same spirit, and the same zeale in tvvo huge Armies. On the one side, Thomyris and Ariantes omitted nothing which might conduce to obtaine the victory. On the other side, Cyrus and Mandanes were as vigilant and circumspect as possible, to vanquish and release Mandana. Myrsiles, Intaphernes, Atergatis, and Hidaspes exasperated by interest of [Page 164] Love, they did contribute their whole assistance unto Cyrus, and to get the victory: And the last of these had a new reason to desire it, for he understood that Meliantes was in the Tents Royall, and that Lycander did not know him to be his Rivall.
Moreover, Artamus, Tygranes, Spitridates, and all the rest of the brave Ones in this Army, prepared themselves for victory or death. But though Cyrus at other times when he was ready to give battell, was wont to be all joy, yet now his spirits were not so tranquill as he was wont, and he perceived in himself such a secret melancholly (the cause of which he knew not) as seemed a bad Omen unto him. Yet he did dissemble it as much as he could, and tempered his sad thoughs with reason: Indeed, he was as active as if he resented no such thoughts, yet that day he would weare only a a common suit of Arms; but as for Spitridates, he wore those which Cyrus gave him, and he wore them with so good a grace, and so noble a Aire, as he was much more resembling that illustrious Hero; Indeed many souldiers who knew not that Cyrus had given those rich arms unto Spitridates, did take him for Cyrus, and were deceived by that marvelous resemblance which was between them. However, though Cyrus had only common Arms, yet he had so high an Air, and such a Princely command, that it was easie to see, that it was his admirable presence which was his only ornament, and which attracted the looks of all about him: But at last after Orders were given in both Armies, some certain spies which Cyrus had in the Army of Thomyris, returned unto his, who acquainted him that in the morning, there had been a combate betwixt two strangers who were with that Queen, the name of the one was Meliantes, and the other Lycander; that the first had killed the [...] second, and that the Conquerour was still in favour with Thomyris, and would be in the battell, relating afterwards, all they knew concerning the Enemies Army.
Hydaspes being then with Cyrus, heard what the spies said, for he commanded them to speak aloud before Hydaspes, so as being exceedingly grieved that this amiable Rivall was not killed by the Ravisher of Arpasia, he made a hundred vows to meet him in the battell, and to have a particular combat with him in the generall battell, for he alwaies had observed that Meliantes was so much in Arpasias favour that he could not choose but be jealous, yet since that place was not fit for the expressing the resentments of his Soule, hee said not a word unto Cyrus, whose mind was so taken up with desires of vanquishing, that he took no notice of Hydaspes.
In the mean while, the fatall moment destined for the beginning of this bloody battle being come, the two Armies which were drawn up, almost with equal advantage, advanced; and as soon as ever they were within bow shot, a cloud of Arrows began to dusk the Air: But when their Quiers were emptied, and that all their other Engins had done their Execution, the sword undertook to decide this great and terrible dayes work, which did nothing resemble the battells which Cyrus formerly sought: For in other battells he alwaies fought his Troops in order, but in this he could not possibly, and there was such a confusion in both Armies, that the souldiers hardly knew their own colours.
However, the fight was sharp and bloody, and there was such an animosity between the Combatants, as there appeared the same cruelty in both of them. As for Cyrus, his actions were this day so prodigious, that were they particularized, they would be incredible, for in the midst of this great disorder, where death looked grim on all sides, he helpt the feeble, rallied those which fled, and going continually from place to place, it may be said, that he run through all the dangers of the battell, yet his care could not bring him to meet with Ariantes, but he killed the valiant Octomasades with his own hand, and he made his way through all places where his sword did glitter: Indeed, this great Prince being seconded by the valour of Mazares, and so many valiant Commanders and brave men, that he had put his Enemies so to rout, as the victory had been his without dispute, Thomiris and Ariantes had been ruin'd, and Mandana released, had it not been for one peice of ill news which he received. For as he was in this glorious condition, intelligence was brought him, that Andramites had surprized the Fort of Sauromates, that he had sent the Queen of Pontus, and the Princess of Armenia, unto the [Page 165] Tents Royall; that Anacharsis and the King of Hyrcania, were in the Fort very slenderly guarded; that Andramites told Meriontes that he was free, and that Meriontes told him again, he would not be so, but would return unto Cyrus as soon as he could take horse, for he would not be delivered by any hand, but that which had saved his life: Adding, that Andramites was with his Troops, between the Fort and the Wood which was burnt.
This news doubtless did much trouble Cyrus, but since the bringers of it, had told it confusedly unto all they met, it had such ill consequences, that it intirely changed the destiny of the battell, for things were told and heard in tumult, they are never rightly understood, so as passing in a short time from mouth to mouth, in the very midst of the Combat, the tale was so changed, that it was told the Van-guard, that the Rearguard was routed, that the Army of Cyrus was set about on all sides, and that Thomyris her self in person, was at the Fort of Sauromates, to hinder Cyrus in his retreat.
This false news did so blunt the valour of the souldiers, that from hopes of being Conquerours, they fell to fears of being conquered, and indeed were like to be so; for they were so full of Pannick fears, that the flying Enemy perceiving it, did rally again, and the destiny changing, [...]they shrunk before those whom they put to rout: Spitridates, who was gon to the left wing, after this ill news was known, he was so compassed by those whom fears had most put into confusion, that he did what he could to infuse courage into them, and to bring them to fight, but he could not, yet he reassembled a little body, with which he kept his ground, but it was so inconsiderable in comparison of that vast body which was before him, that as brave as he was, he thought it impossible to retreat without dishonour, but this Prince wearing those rich arms which Cyrus had formerly so gloriously worn, he thought himself obliged to do somthing extraordinary, and therefore he incouraged those whom he had rallied to second him in his design, and by his example, to move those who fled to return, so as in this dangerous occasion he did things worthy his resemblance of Cyrus.
In the mean time, Ariantes being in the head of those who were before Spitridates also knowing those arms, and being mistaken by the resemblance between Cyrus and that Prince, he verily thought him to be his Rivall, so as he made totowards him, and assaulted him with such vigour, that it was apparant, he was perswaded; if he could overcome this terrible Enemy, he should overcome the whole Army.
On the other side, Spitridates seeing himself so hotly set upon, did defend himself in such an heroick manner, that if the little body in which he was, had been able to held up against that which Ariantes commanded, he had not been overcom, but being extreamly [...]nequall in number, they were intirely broken, do what Spitridates could, who was already wounded in severall places.
However, since he was parted from Ariantes, by the tumult in the combat, he thought that he might retreat; but as he was endeavouring it, he was compassed about you with fifteen or twenty Massagettans or Gelons, who thinking him to be Cyrus, and thinking to end the war by ending his life, never endeavoured to take him prisoner, least his valour should then become master of theirs, but falling all at once upon Spitridates, this great and unfortunate Prince, did see himself in most extream danger: However, though he had none with him but a very few of his own men, yet he encouraged them to do as he did, and indeed they did so bravely second him, that if a Javelin which run him through, had not made him fall from his horse, he had been able to have vanquished his vanquishers. But as soon as this illustrious Prince was fallen, some of his men coming to him; and desiring to stay with him: No, no my companions, (said he unto them,) you must not stay with me, for it is here where I must dye, but it is not here where you must vanquish, and get that Princess whom I adore, out of the power of the cruell Thomyris: These generous words being heard by the enemy, they wer more perswaded that Spitridates was Cyrus, for they thought that the Princess whom he spok of was the Princess Mandana, though Spitridates doubtless meant Araminta, whom he heard Andramites had sent unto the Tents Royall, so as falling upon him all at once, they killed him out right though his men did as much as men could do to hinder them, and then began such [Page 166] [...] [Page 167] [...] [Page 164] [...] [Page 165] [...] [Page 166] a resolute combate for his body, as never was the like, for since a report went among the souldiers which fled, that Cyrus was on that side, some of them rallied, and fought with more courage to revenge their Prince whom they thought dead, and to defend his corps, than they had done to obtain the victory. But Ariantes side being the stronger, they carried away this illustrious Corps, and slew all those who made resistance: All this while, Cyrus seeing the generall terrour in all his Troops, and not being able to be every where, he sent about his friends severall ways, to try if they could infuse heart into them, whilst he endeavoured to rally those who were about him.
He sent therefore Mazares on one side, and Artamus on another, and likewise he dispersed Intaphernes, Atergatis, Indathersis, Hydaspes, and all the brave ones of his Army, so as sending them away one after another, as he thought most expedient, there stayed not one man of command with him, and there remained none but his very self to rally all his dispersed Troops. Indeed he assembled together a few scattered souldiers, and drawing them into a little body, he did not only hold a great one in play, but routed them, and killed abundance with his own hand: Those whom he sent unto severall places to do the like, did so well obey him, that they each of them rallied a little body of men, with which they slew abundance of their Enemies, so as they did not loose so many men in the last battell which Cyrus won, as they did at this time. Yet since all these petty divisions did fight only particular combats, and did not joyn, Cyrus could not see any hopes of vanquishing; but however, he had hopes of not being overcome, if the noise of his death had not been divulg'd amongst the Enemy; who taking fresh hearts, and crying out unto those they fought with, that Cyrus was dead did strike a great terrour in those places where that Prince was not, so as night coming on, the Massagettans remained upon the field as Masters.
Cyrus seeing himself in this pittifull condition, bethought himself how he might, not fall into the hands of Thomyris, so that he with only twenty did most prodigiously dis-engage themselves from at the least two hundred who had set them about; but in his retreat, he met with another body of men, in the head of whom was the young and valiant Meliantes, who 'was seeking all about for Hydaspes, and could not meet with him; so as to comfort himself by the defeat of those he met withall, he fell upon them. Since his number was very unequall, and he a brave man without cruelty, he offered to give them quarter if they would lay down Arms. But Cyrus being unaccustomed to receive any such favours from any with Arms in their hands, he answered them only with blows, and defended himself in such an heroick manner, that he stood the last of his own men in the midst of his Enemys without one wound. But since his courage made Meliantes admire him, he charged his men not to kill him, but to take him, which they could hardly have done, if the sword of Cyrus had not broken.
But at last, when he saw himself single and without arms, he did not make any vain resistance; but still preserving his Judgment sound in the midst of all these dangers, he bethought himself how to render himself unto some Officer who was not a Massagettan, least he should be known, and having observed by the commands which Meliantes gave, that he had the tone of an Assyrian, and that he was no subject unto Thomyris, he rendred himself unto him.
Meliantes thinking himself obliged unto him for his choice, he promised that he should bee used according to the meritt of his valour, and to testifie (said hee unto him) how much your bravery hath purchased my esteem, though it be almost night, yet you shall not be bound as other prisoners use to be, only I require your word that you will not escape.
Cyrus considering his condition, accepted his civility, and Meliantes desiring him to ride next him, and hearing a retreat sounding in all quarters, he took the way towards the camp, but in the way, Oh Heavens, what did the miserable Cyrus think? what sorrows did he not suffer? for he saw his army defeated, he saw himself a prisoner and he could not hope to pass as unknown long Yet since he unto whom he had rendred himself did not know him, he had some comfort, and carried himself so well all the way that he confirmed him in his intention of treating him well.
And indeed, though Cyrus had that day very meane Armes, and did [Page 167] not affect to speaks like a man of any extraordinary parts, yet Meliantes after he saw him in his Tent, did make no question, but that he was a prisoner of some great quality, and remembring how long he himself had been a prisoner when he was taken by the Troops of Cyrus in Assyria, he would render the same civilities which he received: For since Hydaspes did imprison him only out of jealous resentments, he was treated very favourably, so that Meliantes being charmed with the valour, the Spirit, the handsom Presence, and the constancy of his prisoner, he carried him into his Tent, and caused all his men to be as respective to him as to himself: Nor was he (out of a generous resentment) very forward in divulging what he thought of his prisoners quality untill he knew it a little better, intending not to discover it unto Thomyris, if it proved to be as great as he did imagine it: Unless his quality was such as might oblige that Queen to put Arpasia into his power; for since he had no dependance upon Thomyris, he was resolved to do his prisoner no ill office, if the interest of his Love did not oblige him unto it: Thus Cyrus not knowing any thing, Meliantes was thinking how he might best keep his prisoner from being known who he was.
In the mean time, Cyrus being ignorant of Meliantes his thoughts, and judging by his Air, and Physiognomy, that happily he might be in Love, he thought it expedient to tell him in obscure tearms, that the interest of a passion which was predominate in his soule required that he should be unknown in the Camp of Thomyris, and that afterwards he should conjure him to do him that good Office.
And indeed Cyrus did express himself so sweetly, that he obliged Meliantes to promise him any thing. And though Meliantes knew very well that his Prisoner would not discover all his secret; yet since he doubted not but that he was in love, he added compassion unto his esteeme; and expressed himself so generously unto Cyrus, that this great Prince was charmed with his virtue. Yet the soule of Cyrus was not so tranquill, as to set his mind wholly upon any thing which did not relate unto the present state and interest of his love: But when he remembred all the Victories which he had gotten, and considered the pittifull condition wherein he was, he could not choose but wonder at the fickleness of fortune, and grieve for his owne misery.
For indeed it now depended wholly upon Meliantes, whether he would present him unto Thomyris, or put him into the hands of his Rivall; nor did he know whether his whole Army was defeated: whether Mazares was dead or taken Prisoner, and whether so many Princes as were his friends, might rally his Troops, and joyn them with that puissant relief which Ciaxares sent him, nor did he know how they could joyne, if it was true that Andramites had considerable forces between the Fort and the Wood. But his greatest perplexity was the thought that they would presently acquaint Mandana with his defeat: So as fearing least the alteration in his fortune should work upon that heart of that Princess, he suffered unexpressable torments: And he thought his condition so deplorable, that he believed the answer of the Sibill would presently be fulfilled, and that he should perish by the cruelty of Thomyris.
But whilst he was in all these melancholly cogitations, all his men were in a strange inquietude. For since he appeared no where, they thought him either dead or taken Prisoner. So as never was such a dolefull murmure heard.
Cressus, Mazares, Myrsiles, Artamus, Gdbrius, Gadates, Intaphernes. Atergatis, Indathersis, Hidaspes, and all those who had any command in the Army, endeavoured to perswade their Souldiers, that Cyrus, was not dead, least after they had rallied them, they should run away againe: Likewise they did not think it expedient, to say that they thought him a Prisoner, nor to send unto the Camp of Thomyris to enquire of him; least if he should be there unknown unto the enemy. So that all these Princes said, that Cyrus seeing in what a bad condition the Army was, was gone to the Auxiliaries which Ciaxares sent, so that being in the head of a fresh Army he might vanquish his vanquishers: Adding, (since Spitridates appeared not) that they were both gone together: For the truth was, they knew not what was become of either.
However Chrisantes and Feraidas who were grieved beyond measure, that nothing [Page 168] was known concerning their illustrious Master, they disguised themselves in the habit of Massagettans, to the end they might the better passe through the enemies Camp, and heare what they said of him.
Thus, whilst Cressus and Mazares by the consent of all the Princes did take upon them the command of the Rallied Troops, untill it was known what was become of Cyrus; These two faithfull servants, went not only unto the Camp of Thomyris, but also unto the Tents Royall which were very neare, whether they understood the Queen was gone, presently after the Battell: Indeed, a chance happened, which caused this incensed and amorous Queen to take that Resolution. For since those who killed Spitridates took him for Cyrus, and since one of those who commanded the Gelons in that Army, had a most feirce and cruell soule, he had cut off the head of that unfortunate Prince; and being followed by his companions, who carried the Corps upon crossed Lances, he did present it unto Thomyris, whose mind being extreamly incensed against Cyrus, by reason of the last letter which she saw, she received this sad present, in a most inhumane manner. Yet at the first apprehension, she thought to turne away her eyes from such a terrible object, but recollecting all her rage and the animosity of her heart, she beheld it afterwards, without any symptoms of compassion, though her mind was much perplexed. And the more when this Captaine who presented this glorious victime, told her the words which Spitridates spake, when being fallen, he bad his men go away, because that was the place where he was to dye, but not where they were to vanquish and deliver the Princesse whom he adored, by forcing her out of the power of Thomyris. Then did her hatred double. For thinking this to be the head of Cyrus, those last words did so revives and augment her choller, that stifling all thoughts of love, humanity and compassion, she was inflamed with jealousie, hatred and fury, she renounced all the tendernesse of her sex, and dignity of her birth, and yet for an umbrage of her inhumanity, she seemed to be much troubled: So that without a word of her Passion, she began again to speak of Cyrus as the murtherer of her sonne, and as a Prince who to satisfie the gust of his ambition, did quench it with Rivers of blood: She gave the Captaine of the Gelons as many thanks as if he had wonn her a hundred Battles, she made him huge promises of large recompences, and commanded him to follow her with that illustrious head in his hand. So that after she had sent to acquaint Ariantes (who was rallying his Troops which were much weaker then those of the Rivall) that Cyrus was dead, & that he should stay in the Camp, she took horse being attended with her Guard, and two hundred Archers, this Captaine going behind her, and carrying the head which he had presented:
But the observation was, that those who saw this Queen ride in this cruell manner, were all most horridly ashamed at her, and pittied him whom they imagined dead. For all the Massagettans did so well know, that the Warr which Cyrus made was just, and that Thomyris was in the wrong, that they were much grieved at this tryumphant Tragedy.
However since it was night, and since shee had found out a way to persecute Mandana, though she could not be revenged upon Cyrus in a manner so sensible, she would stay untill it was day to act a piece of cruelty wherein she hoped for great delight. So that commanding that a great Bason should be filled with blood, and set in the plaine which was before the Tents and especially before Atandanas whether they had brought Ariminta and the Princess Onesile, she came thither the next morning with all her Guard, and all those who were in the Tents Royall. Yet she had passed away the night in most terrible and strange apprehensions, for sometimes, the image of Cyrus living, made her pitty his death, and sometimes the constant love of that Prince unto Mandana made her rejoyce he was not living, yet it was a most restless and tumultuous joy, which left such smal signes of delight in her eyes, that nothing was to be seen in them, but signes of fury and rage.
Thomyris was that day dressed, as when she went into the Warres, and she held a staffe of command in her hand which she alwayes used with a menacing action, though she had no enemy neare to fight with all. Yet to be more sensibly revenged upon Cyrus in the person of Mandana, This incensed Queen caused the Tent of that most excellent Princess to be set open with whom was Araminta, [Page 169] One sile, Doralisa, and Martesia, to the end they might behold the saddest spectacle that their eyes could look upon.
Since it was not known, what Thomyris intended to do with this great Bason full of blood, which she had caused to be set before Mandanas Tent, curiosity had flocked together a huge croud of all manner of people, who all talked of what was intended, with much incertainty.
But at last, Thomyris comming out of her Tent, and the Captaine of the Gelons following her with the supposed head of Cyrus, all the people fixed their looks upon this sad object. And Mandana and Ariminta looking on as the rest did, had thoughts which others had not, for though this head was disfigured, yet it kept a great resemblance of Cyrus. So that Mandana not questioning, but that it was the head of Cyrus whom she loved with a most pure and innocent affection; her sorrows did surprise her in so strange a manner, that after she had made a most dolefull scrike, her voice failed her upon a sudden: As for Ariminta, though she could not suspect that this was the head of Spitridates, because she knew not why Thomyris should be so cruell against him, yet the death of Cyrus, the griefe of Mandana, and the cruelty of Thomyris did much move her.
However, this incensed Queen, after she had caused the head to be shewed unto the people, and told them in few words that now Peace was like to ensue since she could shew them the head of him who had caused the Warre and murdered her son she commanded him who held this illustrious head, to plunge it three times in this Bason full of bloud; To the end, (said she being transported with fury and jealousie) that he whose thirst of it could never be quenched whilst he lived, yet he might have enough of it when he was dead.
This terrible command was no sooner given, but this Gelon Captaine whose nature was cruell, did plung this head, three times in the Bason of blood, and took it out againe in such a condition as caused horrour in all those who had any humanity in them.
This sad spectacle dejected the eyes of all the Spectators, and the cruell Thomyris her self, could not choose but turne away her head, lifting up her eyes towards Heaven, rather as cursing then imploring the gods. But as for the sad Mandana, when she saw the blood run down from all parts of this head as she lost her speech by the first sight, so she lost her sight and understanding at the second; and swounded between the Armes of Doralisa and Martesia.
In the meane time, Chrisantes and Feraulus comming just as this cruel Executioner did plung this head into the Bason of bloody, they shared with Mandana in her sorrows, for since they did not see the Armes of Cyrus, they thought it to be the head of their illustrious Master, Feraulus transported with griefe and rage, would needs throw himself into the Press, and take it out of their hands, or else be killed: But Chrisantes with holding him by shewing him Mandana, and telling him that he would do Cyrus better service by his life, he had not time to do it; for as soon as the Captaine had plunged the head three times in the Bason, The cruell Thomyris perceiving the horrour, which this action caused in the faces of all her people, she commanded it to be carryed unto the body from whence it was severed, and both carryed into a Tent untill further orders: After which, causing Mandanas Tent to be shut, she returned to her own, with such rage and tumultuous thoughts, that she hated her self no lesse then she did Mandana.
The end of the second Book.