THOAS King of Cyprus, be­ing somewhat aged, was much afflicted for that he wanted one to succeed him in his Kingdome, having utterly lost all hopes thereof by the death of his wife Almira, daughter to the late King of Macedon, who died being with child. He thought it unbecoming Kingly Majesty to marry a Subject, though he wanted not good store of Noble bloud, and cry'd up beauty. And to ally himselfe with his neighbouring Princes, suited not with his politick ends; wherefore moved thereunto by his naturall inclination, he re­solved to take unto him such a wife, as might acknowledge her being made part­ner of the Regall Throne onely to the me­rit of her beauty. Rhodes, a neighbouring Island, though but of a small circuit, was [Page 2]in those dayes so famous for handsome wo­men, and did so much abound therein, as young Travellers flockt thither from farre distant Provinces, onely to feed their gree­dy and curious eyes, with beholding those countenances which multiplied Venus'es on earth, and out-did the starres in Heaven. Thoas therefore, putting on a strange resolu­tion, determined to send thither three of the ancientest and wisest Gentlemen of his Court, with free liberty to bring her unto him whom of all the Virgins of that Island they should judge to be the fairest, that he might make her a Companion both of his Bed and Kingdome, to the end that the one might be blessed with issue, the other with successors. He recommended three qualities to be by them observed in her whom they were to chuse to be his Queen. That she should be of Noble Birth, Of an excellent Temper, And of a befitting Age. And for a fourth, he gave them in charge, that she should be rarely handsome, to wit­ness to the World, that he did not marry meerly out of a desire to satisfie his lust. The Ambassadors departed with two of the most glorious and best rig'd Gallies which were ever made in the Kings Arse­nall, attended on with a number of Gen­tlemen, Souldiers, and Servants, answe­rable [Page 3]to the decencie and greatness of him that sent them. Having had a very pros­perous passage, they cast Anchor not far from the Haven, which on the East is shut in by two strong necks of land, thrust out by the Island to rest her self upon. The usuall friendly Salute being given by Ca­non shot, they sent Albericus, one of the Gentlemen, upon the Peere, with the Roy­all Ensignes, who made Fermondo the then Prince understand, That three Ambassa­dors from Cyprus desired his good leave to come on shore, and to have audience: He being full of Civility, and a friend to that Crown, sent forthwith many of his Gen­tlemen unto the Haven, who went forth in three stately vessels, to meet and reverently to receive the Ambassadors. When they were come on land, and being put into rich Coaches, they were waited upon to the Palace by many of the chiefest of the Rho­dian Nobility. They were met at the stairs head by Fermondo's selfe; and after multi­plied Embraces and Welcomes, they were brought into the Kings lodging: they were well pleased to see themselves treated with greater respect and state then they expe­cted, or could have imagined. Being some­what weary, by reason of those unavoidable troubles which are suffered at Sea, were bu­ried [Page 4]in sleep when the Sun was well advan­ced from the east; and when they were a­wakened by the gladsome sound of Trum­pets, and the beating of Drums, which in warlike wise congratulated the arrivall of such conspicuous personages. As soon as they were drest they were invited to Audi­ence by the Prince, who very affably mee­ting them, said, What is it that is desired by the Ambassadors of King Thoas, whom I so love and reverence, as I have taken but little rest all the last night, out of my desire speediy to execute the commands of so worthy a King? With all due reverence, and as much eloquence as they were Ma­sters of, they delivered their Ambassie, de­siring that his Highnesse would be pleased that out of all the fairest and best born Maids of Rhodes, one may be chosen to make happy by her Marriage and Successi­on, the Bed & Bloud Royal of Cyprus. The Prince gave way unto their desires, say­ing with a pleasing countenance, How for­tunate are you the Virgins of Rhodes, for whom your propitious Stars and Thoas his goodnesse hath prepared so considerable fortunes? Return my acknowledgements unto your King, who vouchsafes to chuse a Companion out of my Subjects, who though I command over them, am yet his [Page 5]humble servant. Thankfull Civilities were paid on all sides, and in execution of the request, publick proclamation was made, That all the fairest and best born Virgins of Rhodes should withing a certain prefixt time come to Court, where she who should be judged to be the handsomest, should be crowned Queen of Cyprus. This was soon noysed over the whole Island, to the great wonder of every one; and to the particular, alteration of the hearts, not one­ly of the young Maids, but of their Lovers. There was no so conceal'd corner in the breasts of all those Maids, which was not fild with ambition & womanish vainglory; & the belief which all Lovers have, that the object of their affection is the onely true I­doll of beauty, did much torment the young men, every one of them fearing to lose her whom they thought to be as wor­thy of a Crown as she appear'd to them to be the Queen of Beauty. Some of the Vir­gins more passionatly in love then the rest, would have refused to have appeared at the time and place appointed, though a Scepter depended thereupon, lest they might lose their Sweet-hearts, had not their Parents ambitious hopes forced them to goe. The houre and place were appointed, which was to be the fatall moment and Capitoll to the [Page 6]Triumph of that Beauty which should hap­piliest incounter the Genius of those Pa­ris'es, who being to be Judges, the older they were, would be the less passionate in fa­vourably deciding the question wheron the possession not of an Aple, but of a Crown did depend. 'Twas a Spectacle indeed worthy to be seen by the whole world, to behold fourscore exceeding handsome and nobly born virgins within one room, whose pomp, riches, quaintness of dress and apar­rell, added to their prerogatives of Nature, made up so pleasing a miracle to the eyes of the lookers on, as they doubted whether what they saw was mortall or heavenly. 'Twas then apparently seen what womens industry can do in inventing rich & costly apparell, and extravagant dressings to in­crease by Art the worth of their native beauties, whilst what the innocent want of experience in virgins could not doe, was by more cunning women by studied Art effe­cted with all their whole might. Here did some appeare with hair elaboratly wound up in Rings, part whereof was tied up with Ribbons, part artificially curld, which fal­ling carelesly upon the shoulders, and upon the cheeks, made them blush to be kist by so wanton hair. Others barbarously artifici­ous, the treasures of their hair wholly lockt [Page 7]up under a monopolizing turbant of pu­rest linnen, shewd forth only some few fine threeds of refined gold; whence the worth and loveliness of the intire Mass of those hairs, which were vailed and hid, might be judged. Others on the contrary, prodigall and ambitious to divulge their Treasure, gave them their naturall liberty to be plaid on by the windes, who being free dispensers thereof, afforded part of them to the thicker aire, that it might not annoy those which were illuminated by the Sun-beams. I men­tion not those Roses of Diamonds, Rubies, and a thousand other Jewels, which crow­ned the purity of those fore-heads ushering in the Orientall eyes: Nor yet those great and purest Pearls which they wore at their eares and about their Alabaster necks, and which wondred to see themselves out-done in whitenesse; for I intend to speak of beauty, not of the accessories thereof. I cannot notwithstanding pass over in silence the comeliness of their aparrell, the Silkes wherof being taken from Persia, & the seve­rall fashions from the most effeminat Pro­vinces, I know not whether they did receive from, or bequeath more loveliness to those members which it was their good fortune to cover. In fine, on what side soever you could look, your eye incountred no­thing [Page 8]but wonders. Faces composed of Lillies and mountain Roses, bosomes of purest Alabaster, lips of Coral, pearls shaped into teeth, Eyes brighter then the Sun, milky hands; such and so many were the ravishing graces, and comportments in this so fair assembly of Virgins, as mens minds confused with amazement, and thinking it not possible that those could be real truths which seemed to be the miracles of beauty, they doubted whether the fe­licity they saw were true, or but an Illu­sion.

The Embassadors who were to make choice, perceived then that it was not so easie as men believed, to judge of beauty, much less amongst so numerous a multi­tude, where the understanding was con­sounded by comparing one with another, and where they were to satisfie anothers liking, and not their own inclination. To this was added, that their judgments might be abused by their curious Dresses, which sometimes do not only mend but alter the defects of nature. They would not have known what to resolve upon, had not one of them after much cogitation and dis­course, desired that the Prince might be intreated, that all those Virgins might be commanded once more to appear in com­petition, [Page 9]but all of them clothed after one and the same manner with transparent vails, and loose dishevell'd hair, to the end that such blemishes in the other parts of their bodies, covered by their Aparrel, dres­sings, or were it but with the artificial pain­ting of their faces, might not traduce their judgment. This was agreed upon, in so much as some of the Virgins chose rather to renounce the uncertain fortune of a Crown, then their innate modesty, by suffering themselves to be seen little less then naked. But though the number were lessened, and all Artifices forbidden, yet would it not have been easie to make choice, had not a daughter of the Marquiss of Filerno, named Nissena, by such vivaci­ty as became a Queen, freed the judges of their doubt, to whom the glory and praise of Beauty did of most due belong. The Virgins being brought again into the afore­said place, the Embassadors hid behind some Arras, and peeping through certain holes, stood with wonder gazing now up­on one, now upon another of those pillars of snow, when on the suddain Nissena, ad­vancing somewhat before the rest, with a maidenly blush, said thus; She who desires to Reigne, ought by her actions to make her self appear worthy thereof. I, my Compani­ons, [Page 10]not less modest then your selves, will not be ashamed to display unto the Heavens the reallity of those beauties, which they have pleased to bestow on me: the gaining of a Kingdom is in question, which cannot be pur­chas'd at a less rate, then by suffering our selves to be seen so, as upon such an occasion we need not to be ashamed of.

No less astonished at the magnanimity of that generous action, then struck with admiration to behold those naked and un­amendable beauties, the Ambassadors stood awhile in suspence, and afterwards ran to reverence her for their Queen, to whom nothing but the worship of the knee was wanting to make her the true I­mage of Venus. She being afterwards clad in her accustomed aparrel, and the fame of so noble an action being spread a­broad, Fermondo's self came to reverence her as a Queen: and the rest of the young maids frustrate of their coveted fortune, bewail'd even with tears, the loss of their vain hopes. One of them who rasher then the rest, thought her self much the handsomest of them all, taking it for gran­ted that the Crown of Cyprus was to be the Guiderdon of her beautie, imagined her self already possest of the Scepter, inso­much as she had promised places and pre­ferments [Page 11]to divers of her kindred and ser­vants, which as she affirm'd, should be con­fer'd upon them by that King, over whom she already pretended absolute power. She, seeing Nissena prefer'd before her, though she died not, fel grievously sick out of meer vexation, and in the heats of a violent fea­ver which assailed her, fel into raving fits of commanding, and expecting to be served and obeyed as a Queen: having after some months recovered her bodily health, she could never recover the health of her mind, agitated with continual melancholy, which utterly clouding her understanding, brought her within a few years to her grave, with a fond imagination that she was the Kings wife, and chief Commandresse of the Crown of Cyprus. Thus doth Ambition and vain glory finde always punishment in their own faults. The sorrow of the other maids was somewhat allayd by rich and pretious Jewels, presented unto them by the Ambassadors, as testimonies of the Kings munificencie. Publique rejoy­cings were had through the whole Island for Nissena's preferment, whiles sad Emeri­no deeply in love with her, was he alone who amidst the common rejoycings, made tryal of more then mortal sufferings: He swounded at the first news that for her [Page 12]beauties merit, she was exalted to the throne of Cyprus, and had assuredly died, had not grief supplyed the place of his soul, to keep him alive: the poor disconsolate young man was so much the more unhappy, in that he saw himself in som sort forc'd to aplaud her fortune, whose prosperity and greatnesse he was bound to wish well unto, though to the prejudice of his own heart. He was now out of decency bound to change his love into observance, and yet was it impos­sible for him who was in love, to force a passage from the one affection to the other, without the resentments of a thousand deaths. I rejoyce (said he weeping) my a­dored Nissena to see thee a Queen, but I can­not rejoyce, nor yet without breathing out my Soul, suffer, that thou being exalted to a Crown, art for ever to deprive me of any more seeing, serving, or observing thee: and yet my grieved heart must suffer it. O my too fair and too intirely beloved Nissena! wherefore was not my love lesse fervent, and you, why were not you lesse fair; I should not then be now thus tormented. Could my inau­spitious stars plot a greater misfortune for me? Give a Kingdoms Scepter to the Queen of my thoughts; to the end that I might for ever be by her abandoned and forgotten? Ah Emerino, cease lamenting, be of good cou­rage: [Page 13]give way to Fortune, and be glad that thy beloved hath met with honour befitting her merit, and such as thou thy self art bound to desire for her. Thou oughtest to have foreseen that Nature intended her for a Crown: Re­joyce and be glad, for if thou rejoycest not in her happiness, she may justly believe thou didst never love her. But alas! how can I be glad, if in her I have lost all my joy, all my content? I will afflict my self, yea as long as I live, but so as my mournfull complaints shall never arrive at my Faire ones Ear, nor in any the least manner disturbe her contentment in be­ing become a Queen. Courage, my Heart, let us seem to rejoyce with her: and for that shee may perhaps disdain to hear me speak, I will by Writing acquaint her with my souls affec­tion. Then taking a Pen, he wrote thus unto her:

This Letter caused some compassion in Nissena, yet not such as to be sencibly af­flicted therewith: First, for that there had never been any such correspondency in love between her and Emerino, as though but in the condition of a privat Lady, might have necessitated her to be his: next, because her heart was so possest with con­tent and ambition, as that it was incapable of any other passion. In fine, great pre­ferments, if they do not totally change, they do at least very much alter the minds [Page 16]of whosoever they be, much more a wo­mans minde who suffers her self easily to be carried away by Pride. After a few days she went from Rhodes towards Cyprus, much honour'd by Fermondo, courted by many Ladies and Cavaliers, and accompa­nied by her kindred, a Gentleman being before sent from the Embassadors to Thoas to acquaint him with their retun, and with their bringing a Beauty with them which they thought really worthy of him. He received the tidings with much content, though he had long kept his bed through much sickness. Causing his Cousin Do­ralbo to be called unto him (who was bro­ther to the desceased Almira, and being ill dealt with by nature as being the third son, could no ways pretend to his Fathers Crown, and therefore entertained himself there in Thoas his Service) He commanded him to see four Gallies forthwith put in or­der, well furnish'd with Arms, and that accompanied as became him, he should prepare to go aboard, and in his stead to meet the new Queen. The Prince did im­mediately obey the Kings Commands in all points, who charging him to make all haste he could back, bad him farewell, and the mean while minded with all possible care his recovery: but being opprest all [Page 17]the next night with an unwilling, and un­welcome inward melancholy, he grew much worse, and was found by the Physitians the next day in a high fit of a feaver, these were the presages which foretold him that some other body was ordaind to espouse Nissena. Our souls (as I believe) partaking of Divi­nitie, foresees, though obscurely and by un­known means, as well our prosperous as our fatall successes, every one having within him a certain beam or sparkle of Prophetical light, either more or less, according to the se­veral Organs which subserve the understan­ding.

Doralboes Gallies being this mean while favour'd by prosperous windes, and by a quiet calm, came within two days in ken of the Embassadors Gallies. Great ex­pressions of joy were made on all sides; the aire was rent in two with the thunder of Canon, with the musical noyse of Trum­pet and Drums, which were answered by the remote eccho's, reverberating applauses to the glory of Nissena, fill'd the Naviga­tors hearts with joy▪ The Vessels being come nearer, one did put forth from the midst of those of Doralbo's, which at first was thought to be a small Pinace, & was af­terwards found to be a large Schalop, rich­ly [Page 18]trim'd with purest silver, and of such a greatness as it contain'd within the Con­cave bosome thereof a Venus accompanied by Cupid, who in a smiling and rejoycing manner expressed his extraordinary glad­ness, by the frequent clapping and beating of his wings. The sumptuous Engine be­ing come so near the Gally wherein Nissena was, as that the voice might be heard, the aire was fill'd with such sweet musick, as the winds withholding themselves at such melody, breathed nothing but such aires as proceeded from the Goddess her inspi­red mouth, who made it plainly appear that she had learn'd the harmony of the Sphears. The words of the ditty said, That the Crown of Cyprus was more due to Nissena then to Venus, who did as well yeild up unto her the Government of the King­dome, as she did the prize of Beautie. The two principal Gallies of either side boar­ding one another, Doralbo was he who first hasted to prostrate himself before Nissena, as Queen, he being followed by twelve young Ladies, six Matrons, and four and twenty Cavaliers, so richly atired as refin'd Gold was the least considerable material thereof: great store of footmen and pages in sumptuous liveries were not wanting, [Page 19]who when they first saw Nissena, fell all upon their knees at a good distance off, whereunto she corresponded with such Ma­jesty as she seem'd to be born, not assum'd to a Scepter. The Prince leading her by the arm, she past into his Gallie, which be­ing cover'd on the outside from the Poop to the fore deck with gold and Crystall, with sails of Purple silk, and lin'd within with green Arras intermingled and border­ed about with gold, appear'd a stupendi­ous spectacle to the eye. The lighting of Artillery, and the noise of Canon trou­bling and deafning the air; which volu­minous smoke and vain glorious noise, proved that praises given to human great­ness are nothing else in reality but wind and smoke. Amongst so many lovely and ad­mirable objects, there was none more wor­thy of sight, or which took the eye more then the fair Nissena, who was the boundeur of all sight, the wonder of all minds, and caused agitation in all hearts: her decent affability, fitting vivacity, gratious com­portment without affectation, and her maje­stical aspect without severity, increased love and reverence towards her in every one. They came happily within sight of Cyprus, where they were forced to stay at [Page 20]Anchor half a day and a whole night by reason of a Westerly Wind which blew from land a little too briskly; at last they entred the Haven early the next morning, where all those signes of welcome, and both publique and privat demonstrations of du­ty, and rejoycing vvhich are accustomari­ly used either by vvay of flattery or respect, by subjects tovvards their Soveraigns did abound. Nothing vvas vvanting but the presence of the King, vvho though cured, yet opprest by melancholy, could not abandon his bed; the skilfullest Phy­sitians not knovving vvhether to attribute the cause to any outvvard or invvard disor­der. He affirm'd he found his heart op­prest and overcome by extremity of con­tent, it being incapable of so immense a joy, and thus taking but little nourishment he rested unquietly in the night season, and in the day time vvas troubled vvith strange distractions of mind; yet variety of so­lemn sports and publique feasts were not forgotten: wherein it was observed by the vviser sort as a prodigie of future evils, that a guilded woodden statue of the Kings was unavoidably burnt to ashes, the man­ner how or cause vvhy being never able to be learnt. Nissena considered these inau­spicious [Page 21]occurrences, and seeing the sere­nity of her fortune thus troubled at the ve­ry first beginning, she was highly therewith­all afflicted, yet did she with all the care she could, conceal her inward sorrow from others. After five days space the face of affairs altered, the King forgoing his bed, with a pretty competency of health, and per­fect chearfulness, who visited by his Bride, at the first encounter of her brightest coun­tenance, was like to die for meer Joy; she appear'd handsomer unto him then he could have conceived her to be, so as quite alter'd even to his very voice, he met her and with open arms imbraced her, af­fectionately saying, Welcome my dearest de­light in whom I am to be happy. Good Gods! of whom have the Rhodian Mothers learnt to bring forth daughters so beautifull? bles­sed be the hour my dear Nissena that first brought thee into the world, blessed be those swadling clouts wherein thou wer't bound, those breasts that gave thee suck, but more blessed be that Fortune which gave thee into my possession: I will be King of Cyprus, and thou shalt be my Queen. Not uttering one word, she answered with the tongue of bashfulness, which shewed her to be no less fair within then without. The King ma­king [Page 22]her afterwards sit down by his side, Pressing hard and often kissing her hand, asked her divers questions, to which she answered with such modesty, as he might easily discern the vivacity of her wit, and the wisdom of her understanding. Had not the many consultations of the learned Doctors who tended his cure denyed him, he would that night have celeberated his Marriage with his beloved. Great is the misery of great ones, who can seldom compass what they most covet, it not being in their will to eat, or take their delight, according to their own pleasure, but by the good liking of such as do either flatter them, or such as would seem wise, and who do sometime hate their contentments. The Physitians ordered that Thoas should keep a spare but nourishing diet for a good ma­ny days, and that he should be kept from hearing of any news, or from seeing of a­ny thing which might incumber his mind with any sort of affection or passion. He punctually obey'd them desirous to be soon rid of their rigour; every hour appearing an age unto him till he should be made happy in the Embraces of his Nissena.

The Kings recovery of his health, toge­ther with the approaching celebration of [Page 23]his marriage, did so rejoyce his subjects, as the whole Kingdome gave publick and pri­vat testimony of their gladsomness. Bon­fires, and Fire-works by night, Baales, Til­ting, Turneys, Barriers, Theaters, and Scenes were every where had with much sumptuousness. The Queen being present at the greatest part of them, was by the judgement of all men still the most praised and most admired object; which Doralbo did prove and approve of more then any other, who from that fatall minute that he saw her, taken with her beauty, fell mighti­ly in love with her, his flames being the more hot and devouring, by how much he kept them the more concealed; he burnt, and knowing the inconvenience and rash­ness of his fire, he had oft and in sundry wise endeavoured to extinguish, at least to appease it. His own heart was onely con­scious thereof, he durst not so much as sigh, lest being discovered by the winds, they might communicate his ardency to the ambiating air. If somtimes his looks did in the presence of the beloved Nissena, betray the secret of his thoughts, by suffe­ring themselves to feed too greedily upon her reverenced beauty, he had a punishment ready prepared for them, by making them [Page 24]fall languishing and without life upon the ground: he durst neither aspire unto, nor hope for correspondency, the one and the other of them being unlawfull and dange­rous; he loved, and knew not to what end, unlesse it were to suffer under torment. Whilst he consumed away amidst these painfull straits, it happened that waiting one afternoon upon the Queen (on whom by the Kings command he continually atten­ded) in the little Court of Statues, so called by reason of the abundance of stately Scul­ptures wherewith it was adorned, he stood with her, accompanied with some few La­dies, beholding the statue of Hercules em­bracing Anteus, cut out in stone, when they might hear from the neighbouring parts a noyse of out-cries and weapons; at the same time came in a groom of the stable with a face as pale as Death, who cried out aloud, Fly, Fly and save your selves, for a fierce Tygre escaped from the usuall inclosed place wherein he was kept, roaves hereabouts, killing and destroying as many as he meets withall; save your selves, I say, for he will be shortly in this Court, and we shall be all un­avoidably dead. The Women with their out­cries, the Men with their swords in hand, but all of them affrighted and confused, ran [Page 25]some one way some another, seeking how to escape the danger which threatned them so sorely. Onely dauntless Doralbo, griping hard his Sword, and looking upon Nis­sena whom he might see look pale, holding her hands out towards him to implore aid; said, Be not afraid Madam, the fiercest Ty­gers of Hercania, came they all in a Troop, much less this one, shall not offend you, whilst you have Doralbo by your side: May my death prove your safeguard, dear Madam: For how happy shall he be to dye for you once only, who doth so daily? This being said, he went ha­stily to defend the entrance into the little Court, where he had not been long, when he might see one come running, who could scarcely draw his breath; who with much a­doe told, how the unwary Beast following the trace of a Mastiffe Dog which he had wounded, was got into a house, the Win­dows whereof being well furnisht with strong iron Barres, and the gate vvell fortified and shut by a Souldier more cou­ragious and vvise then vvere the rest, vvas there made a prisoner, having slain onely his keeper, and two of the Warders. At the hearing of this happy news every one took breath, and a number of armed men coming in, they vvere by Doralbo dismist [Page 26]to their severall imployments, vvhilst he, the Ladies, and the other Gentlemen stood discoursing vvith the Queen of the danger vvhich they had escaped. Being vvaited upon to her lodging, she observed how the Prince, taking leave at his parting from her, fixt a look in her eyes, vvhich though it vvere but momentary, and as it vvere by stealth, seemed as if it said, I for the pre­sent depart from you my adored lights, but I leave all my thoughts deposited with you. At this instant she call'd to mind the words which he let fall in the little Court, then when he exhorted her not to be afraid of the Tyger; and though at first she under­stood them onely as a complement from a Generous and Noble Prince, yet remem­bring that she had heard him say, It should be happy for him to die for her once onely, for whom he died daily: She thought the words tasted more of affection then com­plement. Thus from his words and from his looks she drew two infallible conclu­sions that he was in love with her; and though as then she shew'd no signes of li­king, yet was she not scandalized with his love, every woman being desirous to be beloved, if not out of wantonnesse, yet out of ambition; she resolved notwithstanding [Page 27]to curb that in him which she judged ra­ther to be a motion or custome of youth, then an affection grounded in so short a time. The King quitt her of these thoughts, who came to rejoyce with her for her having happily escaped the late danger she was in, he had understod the bu­sines from Doralbo, who waiting upon him to the Queens lodgings (he never omitting any occasion of being where she was) sigh­ed to see himselfe received by her with a less pleasing countenance, & more grave maner then accustomed, he presently cal'd to mind the words which had escaped his mouth through the force of his affection then when he prepared with hazard of his own life to save hers from the Tygers imminent fury, judging she might have taken offence thereat; so as he had no sooner waited up­on the King, but that retiring himselfe into his Closet, full of passion and griefe, he threw himself down upon a Couch, and fixing his eys upon the ground, he by many deep-fetcht-sighes, usher'd in these lamen­tations.

Unfortunate Doralbo! What heynous fault hast thou committed? What was this thy rashness? Why didst thou presume so much? Audacious tongue, why did not I [Page 28]rather pluck thee from out my throat, then suffer thee to say in the presence of Nissena, That I die daily for her? Alas! the fault was neither thine nor mine; I did not then think to discover my affection, neither didst thou intend to speak it: 'Twas my heart which without advising with my understanding, did dictate those words unto thee: 'tis thou my heart who wer't the Traytor: I cer­tainly would never have said it, nor will I ever say it more, I will rather die a thou­sand times. He would have lamented lon­ger, had not his excessive griefe by making him almost sensless, hindred him from say­ing more. So as after having a long while with much perturbance of mind nourisht his sufferings and fancies, he call'd in his servants, and making himselfe unready, he faigning to be weary, went to bed. What rest he took that night, let them tell it for me, who train'd up in the School of Love, have reall affections, and know what tor­ments such accidents doe cause. He slept but a little, & if somtimes though but for a very smal space he stole a nap, he forthwith seemed to have Nissena before him, who much incenst, and in a threatning manner reproved his rashness. As he would have prostrated himselfe before her feet to ask [Page 29]her pardon, he awakened, and found him­selfe void of the hopes of asking, much more of obtaining it. His body and mind were sorely agitated all the night, save that towards the break of day falling asleep, he dream'd he saw a very handsome young woman, cloathed all in green, who seemed smilingly to say unto him, Awake from sleep and sorrow dull Doralbo, for Nissena attends thee, pursue to serve and love with loyalty and constancy; for after the tempests of thy troubles, thy love shall find a ealm and quiet Haven to rest in. This being said, the pleasing shadow vanisht, and he some­what eased of his vexatious thoughts, leapt out of bed, and as soon as he was ready, he hasted to the Queens Antichamber, where desirous to visit her, and to wish her a good day, he was answered otherwise then formerly, that he must be pleased to attend a while, till such time as her women had drest her head, and put on her Jewels. This was a deadly wound to the soul of the suspitious Prince, & yet he patiently & obe­diently observed her cōmands, not giving any the least shew of disturbance. As he this mean while walked with her Lord Cham­berlain, the Lord Angria, he wondred to hear himself thus spoken unto by the Baron. [Page 30]What thinks your Highness, Sir, of the strange accidents which happened the last night? and what strange accidents, replied Doralbo? I know nothing save onely that somwhat wearied I hasted to bed sooner then usuall, and was all night troubled with a thousand dreams and fantasies. Doe you mock me, reply'd the Baron? and looking Doralbo in the face, and finding his looks to express rather a desire of information then any mockery, he prest him again, say­ing, Doe not you indeed know vvhat befell the Queen? At these vvords the Prince could not but seem somewhat troubled; his blood hastening presently from his heart to his face, so as with a panting heart he added, I vow unto you upon the vvord of a Prince, I know nothing; but I beseech you acquaint me quickly with it. It vvas not yet two a clock at night (said the Ba­ton) when one of my Footmen gave me di­vers letters directed to the Queen, vvhich I presently conveyed unto her: much time vvas not past, vvhen she, molested in mind, caused her Aunt Eurania to be called unto her, and presently afterward those two Gentlemen her Cosen-germans, who had accompanied her from Rhodes, and having given express order, that no one whosoever [Page 31]should be suffered to come in, she entertai­ned herselfe a good while in discourse vvith them. I vvas afterwards vvilled that by all means possible I should acquaint the King, that his humblest servant Nissena, did most earnestly desire that his Majesty would im­mediatly afford her audience. I vvas much astonished at the hearing hereof, but I had nothing to doe but to obey.

The King had betane himself to his rest, which notwithstanding he gave command that the Queen might be permitted to en­ter whensover she pleased; who accom­panied by her Aunt and her two Cousens, entred the Kings Chamber, and in a reve­rent, but very sad manner kneeld down be­fore his Majesties bed, who had raised him­self up to welcome her, and confounding her words with her tears and sobs, she thus exprest her inward sorrow; I very well knew since my first coming from Rhodes, O Thoas, how unworthy I was to be your wife; but I knew not, nor could I imagin it possible, that a King whose fame is so glorious throughout the whole world, would go about to abuse a poor silly young Maid, who though she be not descended from Kings, hath yet in her the blood of the no ignoble house of the Marquiss of [Page 32] Falerno, who at all times and upon all oc­casions have always prefer'd their honour before their lives: Such a one was I born, as I can very well by my death wash away with my blood any the least shadows of shame which may hitherto have sullied my reputation. When I came to Cyprus, I came in condition of your Majesties wife, not of your Concubine, your self knows it full well, The Kingdoms of Cyprus and of Rhodes knows it: If I have been strangely deceived, I am no ways guilty of the deceit: I might justly deserve all man­ner of punishment, and might be esteemed guilty, if I should tarry any longer here, whither being come to live as your servant and consort, I am advertised I must live your whore. Sir! I beg your leave to be gon: suffer me, O King, to return to that Climat where people are born as innocent as here, for in case you should not per­mit me so to do, I shall send my soul some­whither else.

He who had all this while with a con­fused and troubled aspect patiently listen'd unto her, being able to hold no longer, cryed out, What dreams be these my Queen? who is that hath possest you with these apprehensions, injurious to my [Page 33]Crown and to your merit? since when is it that you have been my Concubine, and not my true wife? Listen unto me. If e­ver I was possest with thought any ways the least prejudicial to you, and if I be any ways conscious, or but consenting in very imagination to what you mention, let the heavens hurl down thunder upon me, let me be punisht by Omnipotency, let the earth swallow me up, and may hel take me. I, who have always preserv'd my faith invio­lable to all men, shall I maculate it to your prejudice, who next my Honour, are the only object for whom I would yeild up my Kingdom, shed my bloud, and lose my life? Is it I that must betray you? have not my past actions sufficiently witnessed to the whole World (and to your self, which troubles me most) the candor and integri­ty of my soul? O if I shall ever know who that wretched villain is, that hath plotted these my vexations, my revenge shall make him an example to all ages. For what remains, be of good comfort my Nissena, for you shall soon see that you have been deceived in thinking your self deceived by me who honour you. Or you shall be Queen of Cyprus, or I will lay down the Scepter thereof. Reach me pen & [Page 34]paper. Then calling in for divers Noble men & Gentlemen of the Court, & me amongst the rest, he in their presence under-writ a blank paper and signing it with his Regal Seal, take this, said he, my Queen. Write in this whatever tyes or agreements you shall think fit to ratifie our marriage; and if I do ever deceive Nissena, be you all wit­nesses to the whole world of my infamy, and declare me unworthy either to Reigne or live. At these lively expressions of true affection and candid Loyalty, the Queen for awhile stood immovable; then weeping for tenderness, she obsequiously took the Kings hand in hers, and humbly kissing it, said; Pardon me Sir, for I am betray'd: pardon I beseech you the offence which you might justly take at me for suf­fering my self to be too easily perswaded that you were guilty of a fault which now I see to have been so far from your magna­nimous and Princely heart. This, Sir, was that that betraid me, and therewithall she gave him a Letter which she had recei­ved in the Packet from Rhodes, the sence whereof was: That a personage much af­fectionate to her, compassionating that mis­fortune which had carryed her from her fa­thers house, & from her country, to the end [Page 35]that in her so flourishing age, and indow'd with so great beauty and worth she was likely to be grosely abused and deceived by anothers barbarous lust, he was resol­ved through pitty of her misfortunes to adverise her, that Thoas feigning by speci­ous ways and pretences to take her to be his wife, nourishing her with vain hopes, would enjoy her as a whore. That he did the rather acquaint her with these procee­dings, since by doing so he did second the will of Heaven, which having till then af­flicted the King with sickness, shew'd how it did abhor his mischievous machinations; but that being now recovered he would not be long in bereaving her of her virginity. That she should therefore speedily flie from Cyprus if she would keep that reputation untainted which had for so many ages made famous the House of Falerno, or if she desired to render her self glorious for having wisely deluded the lustful ends of a treacherous King. Thou art the wicked Traitor, who e're thou art, cry'd Thoas, who possest with I know not what Infernal fury, indeavourest to subvert my quiet: but if I may ever know who thou art, thy head shal justly pay for these thy base and infamous stratagems. Then observing the [Page 36]Letter to be without a name or date; O, Nissena, said he, you were too easie in cre­diting the slightness of a Letter written by one who was ashamed to own it! if every one would believe such deceitful Letters, the way would be made too easie for wick­ed men by their inventions to undoe the World. Their minds are blinded who credit a blind paper when it contains no Truths which do appear palpable to the sence, or visible to the eye. I wil not not­withstanding for this time chide you: Re­turn unto your Lodgings comforted, and secure of my Faith. She trembling all o­ver, alledg'd many reasons for her too easie belief, at last confessing it to be a fault, she as a favour, beg'd either to be punish'd or pardon'd by the King, who dismissing her with a kiss, sent for two of his privy Coun­cellors and long discust the matter with them: it was resolved that it was worthy of no small consideration, since the indea­vour tended to the diverting of his Maje­sties Marriage, upon which the succession depending, it consequently insued that some one or other, out of some important ends, were glad to see the Crown without issue: though it afterwards appear'd that they were evidently unwise, who had in their [Page 37]vast thoughts gon about to hinder Nisse­na's Marriage, whilst it was not likely that the King would want other Wives, to whose marriage so many great Princesses had aspired, and in particular two daugh­ters of the dreaded King Nicaster of Loria: 'twas thought that some of the chief men of Rhodes in love with Nissena, might out of an amorous desperation, have indea­vour'd so vain an enterprize, but whosoever it were, his Majestie was to learn by this small accident, to have a better eye upon any the least occurrences then he formerly had had: The manner of the character and the paper being afterwards considered, the first was unkn own to them all, the latter was knovvn by the mark to be made in Cy­prus. I being somewhat severely questi­oned from whom I had received those pack­ets which I had caused to be delivered to the Queen, answered, from one of my footmen, who being suddenly sent for, af­firmed that they were given unto him at the first entrance into the Hall, by one whose habit spoke him to be a Mariner, and that he said he had received them from the Ma­ster of a Pinnace of Rhodes, who was come the day before into the Haven, with ex­press command to take order that they [Page 38]might be delivered at the Court. The Master of the Pinnace being found at his Lodging, he was forthvvith imprisoned, and threatened with the Rack: being master'd by fear, he ansvver'd a thousand things little to the purpose to what was ask­ed him, so that all that they could draw from him was, that the Letters which he brought from Rhodes, were given him at his coming from thence by a kinsman of his vvho vvas a servant to the Family of the Marquiss of Falerno. He was not­vvithstanding still detained in prison, till the Kings further pleasure should be knovvn, vvhich vvas, that he should suf­fer torture: Prince Doralbo at the recitall hereof suffered inwardly divers agitations of minde; and asked many questions of the Baron, that he might punctually inform himself of every the least particular. It was no wonder if he appeared passionate­ly curious, whilst an interest was treated of, wherein his heart was concern'd; but he was interrupted by the arrival of one of the Gentlemen of Thoas his Chamber, who gave order in his Majesties name, that the Queen should be inform'd, that at her best leasure she might go to the Temple to as­sist at the Sacrifices which were to pre­cede [Page 39]her marriage. Doralbo taking his leave of the Baron of Angria, went to the Kings Lodgings, who by reason of his last nights waking, or perhaps through the agi­tation of his minde, had a very sore fit of a Feaver, and having done his obeisance to him, the King asked him how he did, say­ing, I would not trouble your rest the last night, understanding that being weary, you had made more haste to bed then usu­al; but you must this morning take some pains for me. Be it your care that you command the Lord president in my name, that he publickly in the Temple Marry Nissena in my behalf, since it pleaseth the Gods to deny me the happiness of enjoy­ing her; and that when he shal have Crowned her Queen, he do in the name of all my Vassals swear fealty to her, whilst I the mean while wrastle with the fit that is come upon me. The rest I took (said Doralbo) was in an unluckie hour, since it hindred me from serving your Ma­jestie, whereat I am much grieved; I wish I could as wel suffer those pains instead of you, which you now undergoe, as your goodness assures me that you wil accept of my present readiness to serve you, in a­mends for the fault unwillingly committed [Page 40]of not waiting upon your Majesty the last night. This being said, the Prince went to obey the Kings commands. Mintan­rus, a man of mean birth, of a great under­standing, quick at the managing of Affairs, but proud, and of a strangely turbulent and seditious mind was then Lord President; to which degree of honor his riches had brought him, by means whereof he marri­ed a great Lady, and wrought himself into a very noble kindred, and so got into fa­vour and preferment with the King. His wife died when she had brought him a son named Melaspus, who by reason of his rash and troublesome conditions, was the scan­dal of all Nicosia, though his ranting, and his Fathers Authority made him be feared and reverenced by all men. Mintaurus was one of those who was displeased at Thoas his resolution of marrying Nissena; so as hearing himself commanded by the King to marry her in his behalf, and having Crowned her, to swear Fealty to her in the name of all the people, he could not for­bear giving some testimonies of displeasure; yet not making any reply, he buckel'd him­self to the business, crafty Doralbo was aware of it, but without more adoe went to wait on her, from whose rigid or pleasing counte­nance [Page 41]he with a beating & doubtfull heart expected the Destiny of his affection. She came forth, and by her indifferent com­portment made him know that he was not more particularly favour'd by her then were others, but rather in somewhat a care­less and disdainfull manner studied to keep her eyes from incountring with his; nei­ther did she so often smile upon him as for­merly she had done.

Unfortunate Doralbo! with how many Darts vvas thy soul pierced? He assisted at the Sacrifices, and forgetting the sacred Altars, he adored that Idol, from whom instead of favours he expected killing frowns. Nissena being married by Min­taurus, and crowned Queen, she returned to the Palace, and desired she might have leave to visit her husband, and to thank him for having raised her to that degree whereby she was for ever bound to be his Servant and Companion. But he being in the height of his Fit, vvas not in a conditi­on to receive any Ambassie that day; no not so much as visits. The next night he grew better, and took some rest; so as the next morning he vvas able to get out of Bed, and to dine with his Queen, feeding much more greedily with his eys then with [Page 42]his mouth. The Court was full of ban­quetting and contentment: Onely Prince Doralbo,, though he knew it misbecame him not to appeare more joyfulll then usu­all among these universall rejoycings, could not keep the sad Ensignes of inward me­lancholy from appearing in his pale face, which fretted him even to the heart: his ex­traordinary sadness being perceived by all, the Queen not many dayes after was also aware thereof, to boot that it was com­monly whispered about by the Ladies and Gentlemen. She had compassion on him, and to give him some comfort, and since the cause of so great a melancholy might not for a long time be seen into, she began by degrees to be more gracious unto him, sometimes cheering him with pleasing smiles, sometimes with partiall lookes, so as shortly returning to his former vivacity, he became not onely cheerfull as before, but was the ioy and delight of the whole Court. O the fondness of vain Lovers, who think themselves made happy by a smile or look, which sometimes is but ca­suall, and not willingly confer'd, and per­haps sometimes not without fraud; and are again made miserable by another look, which they interpret as scorn, or ingrati­tude, [Page 43]which may peradventure be a cun­ning invitation to spur them on to be more ardent in their loves. Nissena imparted these favours unto him so as they were no ways prejudiciall to the cand or of her faith which she had plighted and vowed to Thoas: For from the time she had tane upon her the yoke of marriage (though it were not yet consummate) not so much as one misbecomming thought sullied the inward purity of that breast which wit­nessed outwardly immaculate innocency. She, I know not whether out of favour to him, or sollicited by her naturall genius to read bookes of Chevalry, desired him to provide her some fitting for her to read, that she might pass away the tedious hours of that season which was now hotter then usuall, though it was alwayes very hot under the Climate of Cyprus. He interpre­ted the honor of this command as a favour from the prodigall Heavens; and his un­derstanding being inlightned by blind love, which infuseth subtilty into the most rough hewen minds, much more into such as are quick and airy; he furnisht her with many books, the leaves whereof he had in some places cunningly turn'd down, where amorous affections are by ingenious [Page 44]Writers expressed, whereby he discovered his passions to her who was their adored occasion. Nissena being quick of under­standing, finding Doralbo's cunning, resto­red back his books unto him, folded down in like manner in other leaves, whereby he might understand and receive such answers, as sometimes excited hope in him, some­times reproved him of boldness. The mo­dest Lover was herewithall so fully satis­fied, as he pretended to no other food or reward of his love. The King this mean while would needs have the Queen (who was now satiated with Feasts, Turnys, and Tiltings) honour a Theater with her pre­sence, whereon the Marquess of Martasses, who with great fervency had desired this favour, caused an excellent Stage-play to be acted. She went thither, having on her a vesture given her that day by her hus­band, contrived and woven with Amianto, a pretious stone which is spun like threed; of which, as of other Jewels and Minerals, the Mines of Cyprus are very fruitfull; so as Beams being cast abroad on every side by the reverberation of lights, which in­lightned the Theater, Nissena semed to be the Sun of Beauty. Poor Doralbo! How many and how great splendors wer't thou [Page 45]to resist, to keep the eyes of thy mind unda­zeled? The Play took all the Auditory exceedingly, being represented with state­ly Sceans and inventions, sutable to the Marquess his generous minde; but the Prince was chiefly pleased, (because it made most for his purpose) with the fall of an unfortunate Lover, who desperatly threw himselfe from the top of a Mountain into the Sea, and to all appearance seemed to be therein drowned. Nissena was a little moved at this spectacle, as she witnessed, by saying, Poor wretch! Since thou wer't onely guilty of too much love, thou didst not deserve so miserable a death. Doralbo let not this occasion slip without making his use of it, being already become so bold, as he durst reply unto the Queen, Good Gods! How is it possible your Majesty should commiserate one drowned in the water, and not be any thing at all concern'd in him who is consumed in flames? And who is he (replied she) who is thus consumed? I see none hereabouts in­vironed with fire. Ah (said the Prince with a trembling voyce) you see him too well, but will not vouchsafe to look upon him. 'Tis I that am that wretch, who in love with you, would a thousand times have breathed forth my Soul, had not my life been miraculously [Page 46]preserved by your more then humane Image, which is imprinted in my Heart. Disdain not, O my Goddess, that I adore you; for I know how to doe it, without any blemish to your honour, prejudice to your reputation, or offence to my Soveraigne Lord Thoas, I pre­tend to nothing else, nor doe I ought desire, but that I may be permitted to adore you whilst I shall live, and that you will suffer it with­out disdain; I will doe what becomes your greatness, and my condition; be not you therewithall scandalized, most mighty Queen, if you would have me live. And here, with a broken sigh, he stopped, expecting his sentence of life or of death from the mouth of his beloved. She somwhat blushing, answered, That if the love he talked of were of any other temper then what he had sayd, he might doe well to leave the vain and rash en­terprize of loving her; but that if it were true that he knew to love like a true Prince, and Gentleman, in termes circumscribed with­in the confines of that integrity and faith, which she intended to preserve immaculate to her husband, she was pleased with his affecti­on, and that he might rest assured of like cor­respondency in her, whilst his thoughts should continue thus modest.

These were the beginnings of that Love [Page 47]which not knowing how to get entrance in­to her chast bosom, went thus by piecemeal insinuating it self insensibly into her heart. Thou shalt shortly see Nissena and be aware that affections enter our souls as it were by stealth, that they may afterwards in process of time become Tyrants. These discour­ses might pass freely between them with­out being observ'd or listn'd unto, the Queens chair being placed somewhat high, and the Prince standing close by her on foot, whose soul was so filled with joy up­on this lucky incounter, as whereas former­ly he perisht through affliction, he now was almost kill'd with content; which was a little lessen'd in him, by hearing how that Thoas, who grew daily better in his health, would by consummation of his marriage, reap Nissena's Virginity; and though the knowledge of the unjustness of this his dis­quiet did in a great measure mitigate his for row, yet did it not keep him from such an a­gitation of mind as did imbitter all his con­tentment. The King who seemd to be on the mending hand, and almost perfectly reco­vered, did much solicit the Physitians, that he might now be permitted freely to im­brace his beloved wife within his arms, which they had promised him to give way [Page 48]unto within four days; in which interim of time he fell into a dangerous relaps, with very small hope of ever recovering. There came unto his Majestie likewise at this time, an express dispatch away in haste from the Consuls of the Town of Siari, informing him, that great part of the Sol­diery of the Commonwealth of Fama­gosta had in an insolent and barbarous man­ner begun to prejudice them, by killing their men and firing their Countrey, which caused them to flie unto the wisdom and va­lour of his Majestie for succour and repa­ration to these great evils. That many of their neighbours and Soldiers drawn out of the adjacent Garisons, had valiantly oppo­sed the Enemy; but that 'twas hard for a few men without any Commanders in chief, or good Warlick Discipline, long to resist a multitude of armed men, provided with all things fitting to fight. That they had not as yet taken any Walled Towns, but only two Villages, wherein they had fortified themselves, and went on destroy­ing the corn which was already almost ripe throughout all those fruitfull fields.

The King was highly afflicted at this news, presaging this to be the preludium of his death, so as calling together his Coun­cell [Page 49]of State that morning, after they had considered the business, 'twas joyntly re­solved, that all possible forces should be presently raised to resist these first insolen­cies; That the mean while order and con­sultation should be taken for all Occurren­ces, and that the King should in his due time name the Heads and chief Comman­ders of the Army, the charge of providing Arms was confer'd upon the Count Ange­bertus of Monagria, with Orders that the Kings Exchequer being immediately open­ed, the Drums should beat up, and people should be taken into pay, who joyned to the other Soldiers that were in Garison, and such as might be drawn out of the Gallies, without much weakening the Maritin for­ces, should be ready to march at an hours warning: in a short space an Army was rai­sed of 8000 foot and 2500 horse, all of them Soldiers well enough appointed, but little experienc'd in Military affairs, for not only the Arms, but the very minds of the whole Kingdome were as it were rusted o­ver by means of long peace. Prince Do­ralbo was by the King declared General. Filarbo, one of Nissena's Cousens, Lieute­nant General, and his Brother Theocastro General of the Horse. Other Commands [Page 50]and Places were confer'd to other Noble­men and Gentlemen according to the Kings pleasure, who knew very well the worth and abilities of all his Subjects. At the very instant that Doralbo received the place of Generall, he began to exercise his Command, fighting against his own thoughts, which in a rebellious manner be­gan to mutiny against him. He esteemed that preferment a misery, not an honour, which by keeping him far from Nissena, di­vided him from himself: but knowing that of necessity he was presently to obey, he prepa­red for departure, not forgetting to thank the Kings munificence for so great a dignity confer'd upon him, and protesting that to shew himself in some sort worthy thereof, he would upon all occasions be ready to oppose his breast to the enemies Weapons. Nissena found her self touched with an af­fection not formerly known unto her: For though she thought she had loved nothing in the Prince but his worth, she was then aware that she likewise loved his presence, not being able to imagine him in the wars, (where he might notwithstanding exercise that valor which she thought the onely ob­ject of his soule) without great trouble. The fatall hour of departing approached, [Page 51]and the Prince was already call'd upon by the Trumpets, when taking his leave of Thoas with a minde much confused, he went to kiss her hand, who could not so much suppress the inward resentments of her soul, but that they appeared visibly by her often changing countenance. Few were the words which they spake to one another; but they vied whose eyes should speak most. Nisse­na, (far from her own beliefe) as she turn'd her face from the Prince, saying, God be with you, and be sure you return; was infor­ced to wipe the tears from off her eyes, which would have fallen in abundance, had not her wisdome with-held them. In fine, their griefs were equall. Whilst the Army is on its march towards Liuri, let us see what it was that made Famagosta, which had formerly faithfully paid Tribute to the Crown of Cyprus, wage war against Thoas; and that some particulars may be the bet­ter known, let us understand how the whole Island being subject to Kingly pow­er, this onely part was then governed A­ristocratically by the name of a Common­wealth.

The issue of that famous Ptolomy vvho built those foure Cities vvhich vvere called Arsinoe, being all dead, nine of the chief [Page 52]Lords of Cyprus divided the Kingdome a­mongst them, and for a while ruled by the Title of Petty Kings. Affroditius, the powerfullest amongst them, occasioned by his death, the subversion of that divided Empire, vvhilst dispute arising vvhich of the rest should succeed to the command of that part of the Crown vvhich vvas now vacant, Byamartes, the most valiant, not to say the most rash, endeavoured, and did therein succeed, to get the possession thereof by force of Arms. His naturall desire of inlarging his confines, not being herewith­all satisfied, being beyond measure gal­lant, and as vvise as he needed to be, he took from five of the others their little Scepters: and the other two fortifying themselves in the Citie of Famagosta, seated upon the banks of the Sirian sea, and having received recruits of Men and Victuals from Soria, made Biamartes dispair of over­comming them by force of Arms: he be­took himselfe to plots and stratagems, vvhich proved all vain. Retiring from the siege, he still ruminated how he might make himselfe master of Famagosta, vvith­out vvhich his glory and dominion seemed to be imperfect and cut short. He advised hereupon so long, as at last he pitcht upon [Page 53]an enterprize, vvhich by how much more dangerous it vvas, so much vvas the event thereof more successfull: if out of no other reason, perhaps because Fortune hath al­vvayes been observed to be as favourable to Rashness, as an enemy to Wisdome. He chose twelve of his most valiant and adven­turous Souldiers, and making them be ap­pareld Country-like, some like simple foot Souldiers, some like mercenary Artificers, and some like Mechanick Plebcians; He willed them to get into Famagosta under se­verall pretences, and to tarry there in expe­ctation of his coming; who soon after ha­ving cut short, and altered the colour of his haire and beard, went thither in a flovenly manner, and Shepheard-like apparell, loaded with greasie Wooll. His intension was to expose himselfe to all dan­ger, so as he might kill those two petty Kings who hindred him from intirely pos­sessing that Kingdome, which without that Citie seemed to his ambition but a Body that had some joynt lopt off. He imagined that either he or some of his getting into the Courts of those petty Kings, might pos­sibly come to mingle poyson (whereof each of them was well provided) amidst their meats: or else by night to bring such a [Page 54]of powder into the lower Vaults of the Pa­lace, as might suffice to blow up the Walls thereof, wherewithall both to kill and bu­ry his enemies at once. If nothing else should succeed, he should learn the exact quantity of the people, their plenty or pe­nury of Ammunition, the condition of their Souldiery, their inward provisions and for­tifications of the Citie; and finally all such occurrences as might facilitate unto him the way how to take that Citie by storm, which he could not doe by stratagem. He determined and performed; but if he went to vanquish, he was vanquished, though the loss did at the last occasion his Victory. His feigned condition of a Shepheard getting him access without suspition into all places, he made use therof to pry into all particulars w^ch might conduce to the exe­cution of his designs. Being one morning invited by his curiosity to see the inside of a sumptuous Palace (the great men of Cy­prus using in those dayes freely to permit every one to enter their habitations) he stept into a garden, and gazing upon a side of the House which was all made of purest Mar­ble, he might see a Woman sitting upon a little rise of a Hill drying her wet black hair at the Sun beams. She sitting a good while [Page 55]still, and seeing one look fixtly on her in a habit which made her beleeve him to be some simple Countrey Clown, who dazled with her more then usual beauty, stood greedily gazing on her, broke forth into a lowd laughter, and said unto him, What is't you look so earnestly upon Companion? Did you never see a woman before? Yes La­dy, said he, I have seen other women, but ne­ver any of so exquisite a Beauty. Look thy belly full upon me then, said she; whilst a Gentlewoman came with an Ivory Comb, to put her hair in order, Biamartes forget­ting what personage he represented, had al­most by speeches and behaviour befitting his true condition and mind, discovered himself to have nothing in him of Clow­nish, but his apparell. But knowing how much it imported him to be taken for what he appeared to be, he began with divers sensless words and speeches to little pur­pose, masked over with simplicity, to move them to laughter, who had delighted a good while to make themselves merry with him. At last they departed from the little rise of the Hill, and he went out of the Palace so far in love with this Lady, as he found it much a harder matter to with­stand his own thoughts, then to fight a nu­merous Army.

'Twas a wonder that being blinded by love, he could yet see that he could hope for no success, neither in his martial affairs by the death of his Enemies, nor yet in his love. Wherefore he wisely resolved to leave Famagosta, where he had reaped no­thing but the loss of his heart, and the ha­ving exposed himself to the evident danger of his life, liberty and renown which he had won at such expence of valour. He left the City, as did severally those that depen­ded on him; except one of the craftiest a­mongst them, who by his command staid to prie into the proceedings of the petty Kings, and to discover that Ladies condi­tion whose merit had wrought upon a Kings affection. Byamartes perceived af­terwards how rash his enterprise was: but according to the custom of great ones, yea of all such as have been favoured by for­tune, he attributed that to the goodness of his own wit, which was the meer gift of a friendly fortune. He ceased not this mean while, at a great expence of treasure, and the full extent of his power, to raise all such men and arms as he could, to assault Fama­gosta again, which being impossible to be besieged on that side towards the sea, was not to be taken but by assault. Though he [Page 57]were busied about so hard an enterprise, yet could he not forget her vvho had rob'd him of his heart, but thirsted the more to make himself master of the City. This mean vvhile he vvhom he had left in Famagosta, having inform'd himself touching the La­dy, found that she vvas of a noble and rich Family, allyed to the best houses of the Ci­ty, though her husband, as having too great and numerous a retinue vvas not vvell looked upon, but rather held under by those petty Kings vvho knevv their un­certain Dominion to be yet but vveakly grounded: vvhich made her be better in­clin'd to Biamartes his Party, then to theirs. The crafty Officer thought it ther­fore his best course to let it come to her knowledge by one of her houshold servants whom he had by great sums of gold cor­rupted, that Biamartes being come into that City by stealth, and unknown, was falne mightily in love with her, in so much as he was sent by him to offer her together with his soul, whatsoever his Crown was able to do, she being the sole Mistress of his will. Telisbe for so was this Lady called thought it impossible that a great King should have hazarded himself within the precincts of an Enemies Wall, and that having such impor­tant [Page 58]affairs of War upon his hands, he could have leasure to think of love; but did ra­ther imagin that this was a plot of some one or other that was in love with her, to make tryal of her chastitie, or else that it was some of Biamartes stratagems whereby to make himself Master of that City, which was only wanting to compleat his Dominion o­ver all Cyprus. Were it then that she de­sired to know whether she were grown so ingenuous or no as to discover the plots of others, or that eg'd on by the itch of ambi­tion, she would gladly know the certainty, whether her beauty were such or no, as to have operation in the heart of a great Prince and valliant Warrler she would be punctu­ally inform'd by this her domestick servant, who it was that had prevailed so far with her as to make her venter upon so rash a bu­siness. She wrought so much by intrea­ties and by threats, as she learn'd all she knew out of her: Which was no more but that dazled by the brightness of the gold whereof a stranger had been very liberal unto her, she was induced to deliver such messages, believing she should not find her easie to consent, but yet ready enough to pardon the folly of a fault which had got her so much wealth. The Lady seemed [Page 59]to be appeas'd, and asked her whether she thought the stranger would be perswaded to speak with her her self or no, charging her that when he should come to receive his answer, she should desire him to do so. The good woman promised total obedi­ence, yet was she afraid and doubtful, least this might be done out of cunning, that her Lady might come to know him, and so cause him to receive deserv'd punishment: yet confirm'd by her Ladies redoubled Oaths, who protested to her that it procee­ded only out of a certain itch of curiosity, and knowing her ingenuous and sweet na­ture, she resolved to let the stranger know, that her Mistress was not only ready, but very desirous to speak with him. He like­wise made fearfull by too much facility, an­swered, that whensoever it might be so done as he might be sure to come by no harm, he would be very ready to receive so great an honour: not that he did believe there could be any abuse used, or traps laid by such a Lady, but that the favour seemed to him to be too sudden, and too exceeding great: which answer being by her brought back unto her inquisitive Lady, after a long consultation had, they resolved (so great a power in Women hath curiosity and ambi­tion) [Page 60]that before he should come to Parley with her, a little tender child, whom he very well knew to be Telisbes only son, should be delivered into his custody. By this her so great expression of fidelity, he infer'd safety to himself from all deceit, so as he refused all other security save what might proceed from her curteous Ingenui­ty. The manner, and hour of their inter­locution was agreed upon, wherein to Bia­martes good luck it was proved true, that the same Fortune which sparingly with­holds her favours from some, dispenseth them prodigally to other some. With ef­ficacy worthy of one who laid open the a­morous passions of a King, the crafty and eloquent Officer endeavoured to perswade Telisbe, that she was more dearly beloved by Biamartes then any thing that did never so nearly concern his Crown, nay more then his own soul. She at that instant, were it either out of decency, or that her ambi­tion and curiosity being already satisfied, some new thoughts came in her head, an­swered: Friend! if I had imagined that your discourse should have tended to these vain expressions of Love, whether they be true or false, I should as well have refused you audi­ence, as I shal alwaies refuse to make my heart [Page 61]a receptaecle of any other affections, then what prompted by my Genius and dutie I have dedi­cated as inviolable and eternal to my Lord and husband. I was perswaded to give you hearing, out of a belief that Biamartes in love with somewhat else then my beautie, would by these his pretences of love, seek to discover how my house is inclined to these our unjust pettie Princes, who carrie themselves unwisely and very violently against all those of my bloud. If he will that I do faithfully assist him in his Victories, I am at his dispo­sal; for though a woman, I will make all other Princes learn by the example of these, how to treat their Nobilitie better: but if his only pretence be to dishonour me, he does but lose his labour, for a nobly born soul doth alwaies more esteem honour then life. Not without won­der and much joy did the other hear these expressions, and seeing so large a way o­pened to undream'd of good success, he an­swered: That he was certain, as much as his Master would be displeased to hear his love repulsed by her, so much would he be pleased to understand the offer of her adherence to him in the winning of that City; that he ther­fore desired her to give him leave to acquaint Byamartes with her favourable intentions to­wards him: that then he would return with [Page 62]freer resolves; assuring her that she should not befriend a Prince who would repay her with ingratitude. He without further delay, went from Famagosta safely and easily under a counterfeit habit; commerce being allow'd to all men, nor entrance denyed to any on who came in alone, unarm'd, and who would go out at convenient and set hours. He came to Biamartes, who being already Master of the Field, was levying of more men, and was incamped not above twelve miles from the Town, to whom having related what he had learn'd of new, Byamar­tes instantly forgot Telisbes beauty; and the poor childe Love, wholly compos'd of tenderness and swavitie, fled from his heart, and gave place for Mars to enter, who in a terrible and bloudy manner did in a mo­ment usurp the seat. He grew impatient to see himself wholly Victorious over his Ene­mies: so as sending back the Messenger in haste with order to promise Telisbe in his behalf whatsoever she could desire in re­compence; were it even the fee Farm of Famagosta, with the Title of Government, so as she would devise a means how he might surprise it. This Messenger at his re­turn found the Lady more rosolv'd to as­sist Byamartes now then ever, since concea­ling [Page 63]his love addresses, she had told her hus­band how the King had craftily indeavou­red to draw from her, to what side he, as head of a numerous faction, did adhere; and that if he would be pleased to second that fortune which offered its forelock to him; the means was in readiness whereby he might take revenge for all his ill usage received from the petty Princes. He was a little jealous to hear his Wife talke thus, though afterwards wieghing every particu­larity, having advised with himself, and some of his nearest friends, he resolved not to let slip so fair an oportunity of revenge, and of advancing his own greatness and Fortune. Telisbe would speak no more with Biamartes officer without her hus­bands being present, and all things being agreed upon between them, he returned to the Camp instructed in all that was to be done in execution of the enterprise.

Telisbe desired, and did obtain it, that when Byamartes should have made himself master of the Citie, he should give way, that for the future it should be governed by the Nobles, and by the name of a Com­mon-wealth; but still as feudatory and tri­butary to his Majesty in a great sum of mo­ney, whose Vicegerent should in appea­rance [Page 64]hold the principall place, though his Authority should not exceed that of the other Senators. For what remain'd, that the Army should draw nigh, and should give an assault by night, for that by such helps as he should meet withall, he should with ease, and without the expence of bloud obtain the Victory. All things were agreed upon, and so successfully executed, as one of the petty Princes was slain whilst he fought valiantly in the defence of his Pa­lace by night, and the other flying away by Sea, trusted his safety with the Winds, passing in a little Bark to the banks of So­ria. From that time till Thoas his reign, Famagosta was peacefully governed in the form of a Republick; when rebelling a­gainst him, he dispatcht away Prince Do­ralbo to chastise so rash and insolent a com­motion. The hidden and wicked Treache­ry of one of Thoas his chief Ministers of state, had excited, nay necessitated that state to the violent resolution of taking up Arms against its Lord and Master. Who this wicked one was, and to what mischievous ends he complotted these revolutions, we shall shortly know, together with some o­ther fatall successes. Let it suffice for the present to know, That an Order from his [Page 65]Majesty authenticated and sealed by his Kingly Seal, was read in full Senat by the Kings Vicegerent in Famagosta; that with­out any reply or intermission of time, to boot with the ordinary Tribute, four thou­sand Talents should be by them disburst towards the occurrent affairs. Those Fa­thers were astonished to hear of so unaccu­stomed & burthensom a demand, there not being moneys enough neither in the publick Exchequers, nor yet in mens privat purses, to make up so great a payment; they desi­red a prorogation of the Vicegerent, prote­testing howsoever that they were altogether unable to satisfie his Majesties desires. They were answered, that they were spee­dily to resolve, and to take into their con­siderations the particulars exprest, and con­tained in the Order, without further re­ply or loss of time.

The poor Senators knew not what to say; in all meetings both publick and pri­vat, the Kings indiscretion was the sole subject of discourse, when many of them received privat advertisements by Letters, that Thoas taking a Caprichio to annull the Republick, had made use of a pretence of exacting a Contribution from them, which was impossible for them to pay. [Page 66]That if they should make ready payment of what was demanded, either in part or in whole, he was resolved to make use there­of to wage war with them at their own ex­pence; That if they did not execute his Order, he would declare them to be diso­bedient, and proclaim them Rebels, and E­nemies to the Crown. That the very Inha­bitants of Nicosia, asham'd & scandaliz'd at the apparent injustice, desir'd that so famous & ancient a Common wealth should now make some glorious resentment against that King, who having lost his reason in his love to a base Woman, had already crow­ned her Queen, to the end that the people might be governed by a mungrell successi­on of an ignoble stock mixt with the Royal Bloud. That the onely remedy they had to prevent their imminent ruine, was to put on a noble resolution of preventing him speedily with Arms. That they would not want assistants and part-takers even in the very Court it self. Those of Famagosta provoked by so violent incitements, resol­ved to prevent Thoas, by setting on his state on the side of Siuri; and though they were provided but with a few Soldiers, they lead them into the Field, not ceasing this mean while to raise men with all their [Page 67]might: And to this purpose they dispatcht away Commissaries into Soria, from the King whereof they promis'd themselves up­on all occasions assistance and succour.

They soon heard how that Prince Do­ralbo was marching towards them with a numerous Army: When the chief Com­manders of the Famagostan Troops, who being disperst abroad, sack the Countrey every where, to the terror and loss of the poore Countrey people, summon'd them all back into the two Towns which were al­ready taken, & fortifying themselves there with cutting deep Ditches and Trenches, they waited for the enemy, whilst the Militia of the Citie was drawn forth, and Forces were raised in divers parts, that they might afterwards appeare in the field ready to fight. Thoas his Army incampt it self be­tween the Town of Siuri, and the Castle of Pigadia; and all the neighbouring places being by the provident Prince provided with Garrisons, he sent forth six Troops of Horse, & ten Companies of Foot, giving them order to use all means possible where­by they might draw the Enemies out of those Towns wherein they had fortified themselves. This was not easily to be done; For after a long resistance made by [Page 68]them of Famagosta, they received succours, so that it behoved Doralbo's forces to fight, which though they did with little loss of men, yet lost they much reputation, failing in their first enterprise. True it is that the Famagostians growing hereupon bold, sal­lied out with a great many men, and be­ing too far advanc'd in pursuit of the Ene­mies Horse, who did of purpose leasurely retreat, they found the way shut up as they returned, so as intercepted in the midst, the greatest part of them were taken prisoners, or cut in pieces; some of them who had the fortune to escape, withdrawing them­selves into a neighbouring Wood.

In Nicosia this mean while the sick King grew daily worse and worse, so as his Case was thought desperate, so much the rather for that being grown exceeding weak, the Physick which was prescribed, either wrought not at all, or wrought contrary ef­fects to the ends it was given. In fine, he must die, and in stead of going into a nup­tiall Bed to rejoyce within the Arms of his Beloved, he must be put into a doleful Cof­fin, and laid in the bosome of Death.

Unfortunate Thoas, I wish at least the Heavens had never suffered thee to have seen Nissena, thou then wouldst not in departing [Page 69]from this world, have known the sorrow of parting from her.

Knowing himselfe neer the unavoidable passage of Death, he called in to the help of his oppressed heart, that native generosity which in his life had never forsaken him, and with a deep sigh, wherewith he seemed to banish all fear, he with a cheerful coun­tenance wherein undauntednesse might be discerned, commanded that Nissena toge­ther with all the chiefe Lords and Barons of the Court should be sent for to him. The sorrowfull Queen being come, she sate her down by the Kings bed side, and taking be­tween her fairest hands, the fading and lan­guishing left hand of her dying Husband, she said unto him, Oh Sir, How doe you feel your selfe? Well, said he, Now that I have all my content by me; but I must die, I must die, O Nissena, neither do I grieve thereat, for I know I was born mortall; but onely because I am to leave you, and to leave you before you be wholly mine. At the hearing of words ex­prest with such tender affection, tears in a­bundance began to fall from the eyes of the afflicted Lady, which at the arrival of the Court Lords, she with much adoe detained. The Lords and Rulers of the Kingdome entred the dismall Chamber with silent [Page 70]reverence; and many of them being by this time got together, and standing bare­headed before the Bed, the King comman­ded them all to sit down. Here, a melan­choly and short Preludium being made by an universal silence to the Kings discourse, he with a fainting voyce having first loo­ked them all in the face, feebly spoke thus: At last, my Friends, or rather my dear Children, after so many years wherein I have upheld the Crown of Cyprus, I am come to pay my last duty to Nature by Death. I die, and die contented, knowing that I have never upon any occasion been wanting to any one either in justice or in clemency; I have always loved my subjects more tenderly then my self or mine own In­terests; and I call your selves and heaven to witness whether I had ever any other end, then to govern like a good Shepheard, rea­dy to shed my sweat, nay my very bloud for the good of my Flock. It may not­withstanding be, that without any consent of my will, some one may think himself ei­ther ill dealt withall through my rigor, or injur'd by some innocent fault of mine. If I have done amiss, I have done it out of ignorance, and for doing it, I first humbly ask pardon of Gods hands, then at your [Page 71]hands who are here present, and lastly from the meanest and poorest of my Vassals. It hath pleased the Gods, peradventure, be­cause I knew not how to deserve it, that I die void of succession, or an heir, to whom leaving that love hereditary which I bear to you, I might assure my self that for the fu­ture you were to be govern'd with those just ends wherewith I have always governed you: But my faults have been too great to others, which have withheld me from having deserved so greatly a desired felici­ty, and death would be too welcome to me, if I could die with this content. Yeild I beseech you unto my will, and be there­withall wel pleased; and if the Love and Justice which I have ever indifferently born unto you all, have merited any retribution from you, I beg a comfort of you able to make me happie before I breath my last. Grant it unto your King, if you wil not that he die, slain rather by desperation then by sickness. Grant it I desire you, I be­seech you, I conjure you, if for nothing else, for the publick prosperity which is to arise from thence: I would have my Scep­ter to pass from me to Nissena: I know that as being the last of my race, I may by the ancient Laws of this Kingdom justly di­spose [Page 72]of; but I will receive that as a gift from your consent, which I might free­ly dispose of according to mine own will. Let her afterwards chuse a husband, whom I wish may be such a companion to her, both in the Kingdom and in her bed, as you by her privat election may enjoy publique tranquility. Howsoever, if it had pleased the Gods to bless me with longer life, she must have been your Queen; she is already Crown'd; The Fates have given you her for your Queen, and the Gods, knowing that she deserves a Kingdom, and that a Kingdom is but an adequat reward to her deserts. I vow unto you by that sincere Faith which may be expected from a dy­ing man, she is no less inwardly then out­wardly beautiful. Did I not know her to be so, I would not propound her as a Head to those my dear Subjects, whose happi­ness I shal for ever love, even in my grave. Let the performance of this my pleasure be your charge Mintaurus, who are my chief President; for methinks I see a willing content in every ones countenance that Nis­sena should be their Queen. Mintaurus rising from his seat, kneeled down and said, If the heavens have ordained (which the Gods forbid) that your Majestie forgoe [Page 73]this life, the Queen shal see how highly her merits shal be observed by me, and how obsequiously your Majesties commands shal be obeyed. They all one after ano­ther kneeled down before her, and humbly kissed the hem of her garment, to which the much grieved Ladie answered only in tears which falling in abundance from her eyes, invited many of the standers by to do the like. Do not bewail (said the dying King with an almost smiling eye) the loss of a King, since you make so advantageous a change in so worthie a Queen. I wil carrie with me the memory of your goodnesse my faithful Subjects, into Elisium; Remem­ber you your Thoas who dies. Here, his voice growing very weak, he made signes that all should withdraw except Nissena; to whom with words hardly brought forth for want of breath, he expressed his affecti­ons scarcely understood. I die Nissena; whilst I lived, as soon as I had the happi­ness to know you, I made you a free gift of my heart; in death, since I have nothing to present you withall more worthie of you, I give you the Scepter of Cyprus; after death, my Soul shal eternally love you. Re­member Nis — and not being able to pronounce her whole name, he at once lost [Page 74]both his memorie and his voice, which he never recovered again. Help, help, cried the Queen aloud, help my Lord the King, for he dies; and weeping downright; she fel in a swound upon the beds side, which seemed a hears loaded with two dead corps. Phisitians and servants came running in, and women being sent for, the swounding Ladie was carried to her Lodgings, whilst with divers Balsoms, Cordials, and odo­riferous extractions they indeavoured, but in vain, to recall the King to his sences. He laie languishing all that night, til the break of day, and then breathed out his soul.

Alas that neither Kings, nor yet King­doms are exempt from the darts of death, and in death greatness and Dignities serve only to make death the more grievous. Behold that Court which but awhile afore abounded in Feasting and Nuptial Jolli­ties, now become a Theatre of sorrow, plentiful only in dolorous tears, and shal shortly be the Scene of Fatal and Tragical revolutions. The Queen, when she was come to her self, wondred to find her self not near the bed of her expiring husband, after whose condition she immediately en­quired, whether he was yet alive or no, or whether he had for ever abandoned her: [Page 75]Answer was made that he was at rest, and that she should do wel to mind her self, for he wanted for no care nor possible assi­stance. Early the next morning papers were found thrown about in divers parts of the Palace, wherein was publisht that the King was dead by slowly working poison; be­traied by some who plotted yet more exe­crable assassinations to the universal ruine of the whole Kingdom. This was whispered up and down the Court til at last it came to Nissena's ears, who betaking her self to fresh sorrows, would have accompanied her Husband in death. She past afterwards from tears to so impetuous and blind a de­sire of revenge, as she seemed out of her wits; threatning the Gallows, Ax, Fire, ruine and destruction to whosoever had kild Thoas But there was not the least signe, nor imagination to be had who this wicked one should be. Mintaurus came in, vvho under pretence of obviating those scandalous ac­cidents which might be occasioned by the Queens ill regulated violence, chan­ged and redoubled the Guard, comforting her in an almost imperious and severe man­ner. Not long after his son Melaspus came in to comply with her, and to offer her not only what he ow'd unto her as a Subject, [Page 76]and servant, but promising with his sword and the expence of his bloud to do what in him lay, to bring her consolation by way of revenge. These unusual complements, misbecoming his rough and bestial nature were observ'd by Eurania, Nissena's Ant, but not by her, who quite lost in the passions of grief and revenge, minded nothing but her own fury and affliction. The Kings Fu­nerals were by Mintaurus orders celebrated with no extraordinarie Pomp, upon whom by reason of his dignitie the Government and interest of the Kingdom depending, he indeavor'd by unusual kindnesses to win into the good opinion of the great ones, and by liberalitys, never by him before practis'd, to to make the soldiery & the common people his friends: he notwithstanding made many to be imprison'd, and amongst others one of the late Kings secretarys, pretending that they were complices in the murder of one of the chief Gentlemen of Nicosia, who was slain some daies before. He acquainted the Queen with all proceedings, whose grief not being yet over, committed all affairs and expeditions to his charge. This was the only thing which he gaped after; who desires to strengthen his own authoritie with the people, and to weaken the Queens [Page 77]power, hasted apace towards the accom­plishing of his vast and proud designes. Melaspus ceased not to wait often upon Nissena, indeavouring by his obsequiousness and service to work himself into her good opinion, as being in love, I know not whe­ther more with her, or with the Kingdom. This his new waie of proceeding was known by al men to be but craft which aim­ed at the Crovvn, and made him more hate­full in the eies of many, then had his dete­stable conditions done before. The Court was sufficiently aware to what end Mintau­rus actions tended, as also those of Melas­pus, and both Eurania and Nissena percei­ved it too, though too late; who finding her Guards to be changed, how she was at­tended by none but Mintaurus his friends and kindred, and even deprived of the com­pany of her most intrusted waiting women, knew she had almost totally lost her Prince­ly power, or was rather of a Queen become a servant; whilst every vvhere, and in all things Mintaurus vvas more obeyed then she. She desired that a Councel of State might be called, but it vvas deferr'd under pretence of his indisposition of health, and of the absence of many of the chief Lords, vvho after the Kings death had vvith­dravvn [Page 78]themselves not only from the Court, but from the Citie. She desired to be inform'd of many Occurrences of the Kingdom; more particularly of the War of Famagosta, and vvhat had succeeded since the Prince Doralbo's expedition: But she could learn nothing but Ambiguities and falshoods. In fine she found her self utter­ly lost, not having any one left her vvith vvhom to advise, and make knovvn her mind save only Eurania, vvho amongst the rest of her vexing cares, she acquainted vvith her amorous inclination vvhich since the Kings death, did much increase in her tovvards Doralbo. Melaspus this mean while, who by his Fathers persvvasions, did often visit Nissena, could no longer hold commerce with those fair eyes, with­out becoming in reality her very fervent Lover; and forgetting his Fathers sordid and avaritious ends, which aimed at the unjust possessing of the Kingnom, he aspi­red to nothing else but the possession of Nissena's beauty. 'Tis a folly to expose ones self to the flames, with a thought of not remaining if not burnt, at least through­ly warmed. Nissena was at all times ex­ceeding handsome, but being atired in Wi­dovvs aparrel and vails, she appeared to out­do her self.

It was no wonder therefore if Melaspus, vvho vvas vvont formerly onely to follow after vvanton and lascivious love, suffered himselfe at this time to be taken by that countenance, w^ch though it breathed forth nothing but noble flames, did notwithstan­ding ravish with a redoubled violence, he therefore sollicited his father to such resolu­tions as might give him Nissena in possessi­on: so as his sons intreaties joyned to the conatural goads of Ambition & Avarice, Mintaurus resolv'd himself to propound Me­laspus to Nissena for Husband. She blush­ing, but wisely keeping in the height of her disdain, took time to give answer, so as the vvary vvicked fellow perceiv'd she was not much inclin'd to such a marriage; And though he feigned, yet inwardly inraged, he said within himselfe, Thou shalt either marry Melaspus, or have Death for thy Bridegroom.

The Queen saw her self afterwards worse treated then ever, and the ill usage practi­sed hitherto by Mintaurus with hidden Art, began to degenerate into evident neglects. She was no more acquainted, as formerly, with the affairs of the Kingdome, nor for all that she could do, could she ever get the Councell to meet. She was attended as meanly as might be, onely in what con­cern'd, [Page 80]necessity, not as became her great­ness; the number of her Courtiers and Ser­vants in her waiting rooms being every day decreased, and the number of Souldiers every day increased. Melaspus only, whose flames grew daily greater, continued to serve her, though the little correspondency or gratitnde that he met withal, might have made him see he was not at all respected. The Niece and Aunt perplext between these straits, resolved it not onely needful for them, but necessary to acquaint Doralbo by Letters, how barbarously they were treated by Mintaurus after the Kings death: And this Nissena was the willinger induced unto, now that she saw the way open unto her to make with honour her affection known to that gallant Prince, whose love she now e­steem'd a greater fortune then the Crown. 'I was hard for them to get the letter safely conveyd unto him; but wary Eurania sent it by a very trusty Messenger. For what re­main'd they resolved to shew themselves for the future more inclin'd to the propositi­on of Nissena's marriage with Melaspus, whose affection should be fed and nourisht by her with some seeming content: yet so cunningly, as a sudden change might not cause suspition. The sad couple were tossed [Page 81]between the billows of these anxious thoughts, and Nissena opprest with unwel­come Melancholy, was more afflicted then usually, when a young man appear'd before her of a noble enough aspect, though not very richly attir'd, who having bowed re­verently unto her, spake to her in this man­ner, The weight of affairs vvherein your Majesties life and the possession of this king­dom are concern'd, required that I should come before your presence: and for that I was often denied entrance by the guard, I who am a Merchants son of this Citie, have abused the Souldiers, making them believe that I was sent for by you, with direction to bring you some Looking-glasses, where­with the better to colour over the Fiction, I have brought good store with me; and to that purpose, Madam, I will present you with a Glasse, wherein you shal see the wic­ked practises of others, and the imminent dangers which hang over you. Be not, I beseech you, offended, that Fortune hath made choyce of me your unworthy servant, and most humble subject, as an instrument to withdraw you from those misfortunes to which you are so much the more expos'd, for that you doe the lesse discern them; as long as my Relation shal serve to your re­liefe, [Page 82]you need not care who I am. A­bout a moneth since I was impriso­ned by order from the President Min­taurus, onely for being casually in com­pany in the night season with some such young men as my selfe; amongst whom there arose some dispute about love-affairs: & was ready to be set at liberty when by the unadvised Keeper, a Secretary of my lare Soveraign was brought into the same pri­son where I was. He wondred to see me there, the Jaylor having received express command, as the Secretary told me, to put him into some prison where no body was. The secretary inquiring the misfortune that had brought me thither, I answered, 'Twas for a businesse of small concern, and that I hoped that very day to be set at li­berty. He rejoyced with me at my good fortune, adding, I would it might please the Gods, that according to my innocen­cy I might likewise be set free; but I feare I shall by the losse of my life pay for the punishment which is due to the wickedness of other men. I think it notwithstanding a great good fortune to have met you here, my friend, for you are to be a means of free­ing the fairest and most deserving Queen of the world from those dangers she is likely [Page 83]to undergoe. Know that Mintaurus, the wickedest of as many men as live, grown insolent by that good fortune which to boot with making him rich, and having brought him into favour with the King, hath raised him to the degree of chief Pre­sident, seeing the King without issue, is be­come ambitious of the Crown, and endea­vours to open a way to his enjoying it by the most cruell and unjust means that ever was devised by any Fiend in Hell. When Thoas was resolved to marry Nissena, he saw the ground-work of his barbarous pre­tensions began to shake, and therefore cau­sed slow working poyson to be mingled in the Kings meat, which by a lingring sick­ness hath brought him to his grave. 'Twas he who by a blind letter indeavoured to make Nissena run away, or at least to raise jealousies in her, and make some misunder­standings between her and the King, fea­ring lest when Thoas should die, he might leave the Scepter hereditary to her. He was the wicked one, who sending false Or­ders for grievous contributions to the Common wealth of Famagosta, and using other wicked Art, made them take up arms against the King, to the end that all the Souldiers being drawn out of Nicosia, his [Page 84]machinations might be the easilier compas­sed. He is that wicked one who to com­pleat all his unjust Acts, will have Nissena to marry his son Melaspus, or else will poi­son her, or put her to some more cruell death. And when he shall have made him­self Master of the Kingdome, I am sure the people wil be made to weep tears of bloud, they shall be opprest, not governed; tyran­nized over, not ruled: He finally, lest I might in time smell out his Treacheries, hath commanded that I should be buried in this prison, & would have ere this have put me to death, had he known that I was a­ware of his misdeeds. What is to become of me, and of a many more that are impri­soned with me, is best known to those stars which sometimes powre down greater showres of Misfortune upon the innocent then on the guilty. When you shall be set at liberty, delay not I beseech you, to dis­cover all his frauds unto the Queen, desi­ring her either to flie from the Tyrants hands, or to incite the people to revenge, & to work his ruine, and tell her from me that though Mintaurus his friends appear nume­rous and potent, he is notwithstanding ha­ted by all the people, and to all such of the Nobility as are not allied to him. The [Page 85]Souldiers are grown to side with him, by reason of his profuse liberality towards them; but they are but a few, the Garri­sons being much weakened; and the very Guards of the Gallies and of the Court, by reason of the expedition against Fama­gosta.

This is all I can serve her in; as for wis­dome and counsell, she is of herselfe so well provided, as I hope (and may the Gods make my hopes prove true) to see her freed from so many imminent dangers, and tri­umph over the ruines of her enemie. He was about to have told me how he came to know these Mintaurus his wickednesses, and had already begun to say somewhat of his love-affairs, when the Keeper came to invite me to my desired liberty. I came forth, thinking those benigne influences which had whilst I was in prison, afforded me the most happy occasion of serving your Majesty. And then bowing low before her feet, he added; Yet I cannot but be­waile that fortune which imbitters all my content, by making me the bringer of such fatal news of imminent dangers. The yong man ceased speaking, and Nissena, who not knowing what to think, had this mean while changed her countenance 100 times, [Page 86]fetching a deep sigh, answered thus, I can­not for the present, young man, pay you with any thing but thanks for what you have told me: If it be the pleasure of the Gods that I escape these dangers which unjust Mintaurus hath plotted against me, I will be mindfull of you, and of the trouble you have undergone to serve me. I could wish you would let me see you somtimes, lest I may merit the title of Ingrate­ful; if I shal fall under his treacheries, do you comiserate my misfortunes who know my inno­cency, and be, if not a publick yet a privat te­stimony of his wickedness, whilst I assure you, that in serving me, you have not sown in the sand; and let this suffice, that if I live I will testifie my acknowledgement otherwise then in words. He took his leave, and she was so lively imprest with what she had heard, as she was not wanting to herself in providing for her imminent dangers.

Doralbo had this mean while received the Letter from his beloved Nissena, and was thereby made at once both happie, and much afflicted. Happie, for that the sole characters of that fair hand, were able to have recall'd him to life again, had he bin already dead: Afflicted to hear of those wicked demeanors which the base President had used towards her, whom he reverenced [Page 87]as worthy of Incense. He was glad that she was succeeded to the Kingdom by In­heritance, and that being assumed to so high a degree, she would deigne to confide in him, and give him some little inckling of her correspondencie in affection: but he was grieved that he was not present to hazard his life in her defence and for her service. He would have presently been gon, nay he would have flown towards Nicosia; but he could not do so, because the next day he was to fight the Enemy in a pitcht Field, whereupon the Victorie of that War depen­ded, and wherein the interest and glorie of his Queen did consist. Amidst the variety of these thoughts, he resolved first to trie the fortune of the day: and finding his heart invigored by the graces of his belo­ved, he thought himself already Conque­ror, and joyd that he should shortly enjoy the triumphs of his Victorie under the gra­cious arches of those eies which he adored. That night appeared an age to him, he got two hours before day out of bed; and by his command the Trumpets were soon heard in all his quarters, awakening those who were yet asleep, and inviting them to prepare for the battel. Arm'd all in black, he curb'd in a horse which under a mantle of [Page 88]snow covered a fierie soul, hasting some­times to one place, sometimes to another, to incourage his Soldiers, to give out Or­ders to the Commanders, to excite the backward, to suppress the insolent, and to dispose of all things which might make his Victorie the more easie, in an open plain and spacious field, save only that on the left hand there stood a little hill; he order'd his Army, giving the right wing to Filar­bo, and the left to Theocastro, he himself kept in the midst at the head of a choice Troop of commanded horsemen, he fore­ran all others no less in valour and courage then with his steed, when he understood by some Scouts who he had sent before to watch the Enemies proceedings, that the Enemie was come within a mile and a half, and already the noise of their Trumpets might be heard, the sound of Drums, the neighing of Warlick horses, and a thick cloud of dust might be perceived to be raised in the air. In the Famagostan Army, the unexperience of the Countrie Soldiers, which were not very many, was supplied by the practice and valour of many Volun­tiers who were come thither in great num­bers from the adjacent shores and neigh­bouring Islands, called in by the renowned [Page 89]name of Agenor of Soria, on whom the place of Generalissimo was by the Senat confer'd at a very profuse charge: He had disposed of his squadrons according to the Persian manner, in whose Wars he had a long time been trained up, fighting gene­rously sometimes in the condition of a pri­vat Soldier, sometimes of a powerful Com­mander. 1500 bow-men on horseback marched before the body of the Army, and he himself followed immediately after up­on a horse whose bards and crupper were made of Panther skins, lined with purple and interwoven with gold; he had upon him a Jacket of azure satin, trim'd with long buttons of great pearl, and his head was odly wound about with Skarfs various­ly coloured, bestuck with feathers of great esteem and price; he was provided with no other arms but only a Scimiter hanging at his left side, and a battel ax at his saddle bow: Assoon as the Armies were come within bow-shot, the Archers like light­ning let fly all their arrows, and dividing themselves instantly into two wings, they retreated orderly, leaving the rest of their Army open to the Enemies eie; few that were then wounded did immediately die, but not any one were his hurt never so [Page 90]small, outlived the space of three days, the heads of their arrows being all dipt in dead­ly poison. Doralbo and Agenor were the first who advanced one towards another, but imitated, and followed by great num­bers of Cavalrie, they could not come to fight hand to hand, being hindred by o­ther combatants who with like generosity and fortune on both sides, sometimes char­ged on, sometimes retreated, sometime drove back their Enemies, who rallying again, returned to face and fight the ad­verse party. Many fell down wounded on both sides, troden under foot, dying, and buried before they were dead, by the confused number of horses born to the ground, of broken weapons, and a multi­tude of dead bodies: Agenors horse was slain under him, and had he been less valiant, he had in this very first encounter either bin slain or taken prisoner by the Nicosians: but he slew so many with his Scimeter, and threw so many to the ground, as being in time succour'd by his men, he escaped the evident danger of losing either his life or li­berty. Doralbo received a slight wound in one of his arms, and doubting least his Sol­diers might be discouraged by seeing him bleed, he cried out aloud; Courage my be­loved, [Page 91]for the Victorie leans already to our side, and though I have often indeavour­ed either to overcome or to die, I have hitherto met with no other harm, save only so slight a wound, as hath hardly drawn three drops of bloud from me: Whilst he was speaking thus, he was advertised by a thundring salute of musquet shot, that Filarbo had gi­ven battel on the left side, and that he had had bad fortune at the very first; for the ranks of his pikemen who defended the musquetiers, being broken by the Enemies launces, he might see them all routed, and little better then running away. He ma­king a speedie half turn indeavoured with many other horsmen to make resistance, but was necessitated to face about against some other horse which charged him on the flank, which had he not done, they were likely not only to have disordered, but to have routed the whole Army; not at all discouraged herewith, he dispatcht away a Serjant Major upon a very fleet horse, to advertise Theocastro that with what force and fury he possibly could, he should with­out delay charge the Enemies forces on his side, if he would not have the day lost: He obeyed so luckily, as bearing down the first files at his fierce assault, who were all Coun­trey [Page 92]Soldiers, they began by little and lit­tle to retreat, and by and by to run down­right away; in so much that Theocastro with many of his men charged so home as he took the chief Standard, and meeting with none to withstand him, he came in to the succour of his brother Filarbo, who af­terwards valliantly fighting together with him, beat back the Enemy, many of which ran disorderly away along the neighboring fields. Doralbo and Agenor had this mean while made interchangeably very great slaughter, and bravely imitated by their followers they continued fighting, the Vi­ctorie not appearing to lean to either side; but upon the arrival of Filarbo and Theoca­stro, Agenors horse were forc'd to save them­selves by an orderly and slow retreat, which could not justly be called running: at last, after having long indeavoured it, the Ge­nerals met face to face; and Agenor aban­doned by almost all his men, had at last pe­rished by the number of his assailants, had not Doralbo defending him with his own hands, cryed out, that it belonged to him alone to grapple with that fierce man. Thou shalt not so easily overcome me said Agenor with the sword as with courtesie; having said so, he made on with his Scimiter in [Page 93]both hands towards Doralbo, who dexte­rously evaded that blow which would have cleft a mountain of Iron: at the same time he let fly a stockado at the Enemies throat, and wounded him sorely, though not mor­tally, so as losing aboundance of blood, he had almost faln down half dead amongst his own men, but he did not this before he had given Doralbo a large but not a deep wound in the same left arm whereon he was hurt before. This was the end of this days action, Agenor being carried to his Tents, and the Prince upon a very fleet horse to his Quarters.

The Armies being mustered, about 2000 horse and 3600 foot were found wanting on the Crowns side; and on the Common­wealths side little less then 4000 horse, and only 2700 foot: So as those who defended the Kingdom, had but small cause to boast of a Victorie purchased with so much bloud.

Doralbo's wound being tented and drest was found to be but slight, and no ways dangerous: so as he who long'd very much to be where his heart alreadie was, after ha­ving given order and express command in what was requisit for the burial of the dead, for the cure of those that were wounded, [Page 94]and for all other occurrences which be­longed to the Interest of War, which he af­fectionately recommended to Filarbo and Theocastro's care, he speedily took his way toward Nicosia, awaited on only by two Gentlemen, and one page. 'Tis hard to imagin, much harder to say how many troubled thoughts he was agitated with in this his Journey: he found his heart beat within him for joy to think he should so soon be made happie in the so often wisht for sight of his Nissena, from vvhom he ho­ped hereafter for correspondencie in love, if not more ardent, at least more free and lavvfull; she not being novv bound unto any other affections, save to the gratefull matrimonial memorie of her dead husband; he hoped and fear'd: hope and fear being inseparable from a soul in love. He hoped to make himself vvorthy of his belo­veds favour by doing some great acti­ons aiming at her service and relief. But he feared lest she being raised to the Regall Throne, might despise him, who though born a Prince, had no considerable fortune, save what he might be made parta­ker of by her, from whom he could not be induced to hope for, or to pretend unto any thing more then some little gratitude, in not [Page 95]being contemn'd or abhor'd. He thought he had already put a period to Mintaurus his pride, that he had trode him un­der foot, cut his throat, and offered him as a victime in sacrifice to his adored Idoll. Spurre on thy Horse in Gods name, poor Doralbo, thou shalt shortly see to what fatall Spectacles, and sad misfor­tunes thy miserable destiny hath reserved thee. And thou unhappy one, not fore­seeing thy adverse destiny, hastest to see and hear things and objects which will make thee suffer a thousand deaths. He was scarcely come within sight of the Citie, when he might perceive how much Nicosia was altered for what concern'd him, from what it was when he left it. He was questio­ned whilst yet a good way off, by two Senti­nels who were armed, and walked carefully upon a Bulwark, who he was: and not al­lowing him leasure to reply, they in an im­perious manner added; That he must ei­ther presently stay, or else give in his name, and lay down his Arms at the entrance into the Gate: to the which whilst he drew neer, he was withstood by a number of Soldiers who kept the Guard. And what, said he in angry manner, is my countenance so much alter'd? How now you Rascals; doe [Page 96]you not know me? Then clapping spurres to his Horse, he would force his entry. One of them more rash then the rest, laying hold upon his Horses bridle, said, Stay Sir, for we are Mintaurus his Souldiers, and have no respect for you. At which he reply'd aloud, Did I not disdain to defile my sword in so base bloud, I would teach thee to discourse thus with a Prince. What is Mintaurus? And since when commands he over such as I am in Ni­cosia? He would have said more, but the Captain of the Troop coming in, interposed himselfe in such like words: Sir, these may be excused, enter in Gods Name, I in the mean while will acquaint him whom I ought to doe so, with your Highness arrivall. He en­tred all swoln with anger; nor had he ad­vanced far, when he might discern such a hushness and melancholy in all the people, as recalling into his mind Thoas his death, presented nothing but confusion to him, and what mischiefe might overhang him and Nissena; insomuch as he found his heart struck through by an unexpected deep melancholy. Troubled with these thoughts, he came to the Court Gates, w^ch were likewise guarded by a body of men unknown to him. He advanced, being not so much respected as before: but he did not [Page 97]much mind it, his heart leaping within him to think he was so near seeing and discours­ing with his dearly beloved. Being got up the stairs, he went towards the Queens Lodgings, and entring into the ante-rooms, he found them void and abandoned by the wonted Guard, and the accustomed fre­quencie of Courtiers, Cavaliers and No­ble men: being entred a little further in, he might hear a whispering noise as of some that were talking. Laying his hand upon the dore (Oh! go no further Doralbo, for thou goest not knowing it, to meet with worse then death) and opeing it, he found none but two much afflicted Women, who stood talking with a page of a misfortune which was befaln. Where is the Quen, said he? has she changed her lodgings? One of them bursting forth into downright weep­ing, answered; Alas Sir, our Queen may well be said to have changed her lodgings, since she is gon to heaven to enjoy the reward of her inno­cencie, being now free from the power of the wicked Tyrant. At this sad and unexpected newes the inamored Prince felt a chilness run over his whole body, as is usual in a cold fit of an ague, and a certain vapor rise from his heart unto his head, which took his sight from him, and made him for a­while [Page 98]stupid, immovable, and senceless: He afterward brake forth into a loud crie, and said; Is it true that Nissena is dead? hath the barbarous rascal murderd her? or who is that barbarous rascall? where is he? tell me where, and how, and when, and who it was that kill'd her? The sorrowfull wo­man, mingling sobs and tears with her words, answered; Two Soldiers comman­ded so to do by wicked Mintaurus, ript her soul from out her bosome with their daggers; the next chamber and her own bed was the tra­gical scene of so unjust an act. Oh my heart! how deadly was the wound; savedg beasts and vipers, not men: but I, I will take re­venge, said the Prince, if I can so long out­live my lifes death as to have time to do it; O that I could assoon by my death recall her to life. Lamenting thus, he turn'd his face to the dore of the next chamber, and saw the bed and carpets which were spread about it upon the ground, and the room it self all stained, besmeared and sprinkled with bloud. Oh said he, this is my hearts bloud unworthily drawn from that spotless and inno­cent body. Did I come hither, O Nissena, to serve thee, to place thee in thy Throne, to reverence thee, and do I finde nothing of thee but bloudie signes? yes, yes, 'twas thus thou [Page 99]meanedst to point me out the way, that to imi­tate and follow thee I must die. Be sure my soul I will follow thee, but I will first revenge thee: I will first have these stains washt a­way with that Traitor Mintaurus his heart-bloud: But good gods! what have these in­fernal monsters done with my Queens body? perhaps her wounds were not mortal. Why then wretch that I am, came not I time enough at least to wash them with my tears, to binde them up with my lips, and then die? 'twill be time enough though to die when I shall have ript his heart from out his bosome, who hath slain thee my fair and adored soul. Thus born away by blind fury, he went in haste from those lodgings, and being resolved ei­ther to revenge the death of his beloved, or else to perish in the enterprise: he went thi­ther where he thought to have found Min­taurus; but meeting with Melaspus at the stair head, followed by a great many of the Nobility and Souldiers, he presently laid his hand upon his sword, crying out, Tray­tor, the wicked Son of a greater Traytor, and more wicked Father, thou shalt the mean while pay for what shall afterwards be divided be­tween so infamous a Son and cruell a Father. His voyce was thunder, his sword fire, and his arm lightning, wherewith he let flye at [Page 100] Melaspus his breast; and the wound he gave him being the glory of one onely blow, neither could Melaspus, nor as ma­ny as were about him with their Swords all drawn, save him from it; save onely that falling a little side-long, the wound lighted amongst his ribs, which was intended at his heart; stepping a little backward, rash and desperate Doralbo would have redoubled his thrust; but Melaspus having already drawn his sword, and all his followers in­terposing themselves, or else opposing the Prince, he could neither hurt any more, nor yet come neer his abhorred enemy. A noise and tumult of weapons and voyces was suddenly heard throughout the whole Pa­lace. Whereupon Mintaurus himself com­ming in, charged that the Rebel and Tray­tor who had trayterously indeavoured to kill his sonne even within the Court, should be taken and bound, but neither struck nor wounded. The valiant Prince laid about him like Mars, in defence of his liberty, and wounded four or five of them; but at last overcome by the numerous press of rude Souldiers, and his weapons taken from him, he was led, or rather carried to a moist, narrow, dark Dungeon. Mintaurus not knowing that it was desperation which [Page 101]had made Doralbo attempt to kill his sonne, could not imagine why alone, and armed onely with his Sword, he had exposed him­selfe to the so evident danger of bootlesly losing his life. He thought this was the beginning of some mine laid for his ruine; and fearing lest he might be insnared, he be­came a watchfull Argus to guard that Kingdome, the Crown whereof he inten­ded for his own head. That he might be­come formidable to such of the Nobility as did not adhere unto him, he the next day made the heads of the Baron Timis, and of the Count Pentaia be struck off in the midst of the market-place, pretending that they had backt Doralbo in his attempt a­gainst Melaspus. He gave great summes of money to all the Militia, and changed their Commanders. And that he might win the peoples love, by whom he saw himselfe to be but smally esteemed, and almost hated, he gave order for plenty of victuals, and at his own charges bated half their prices. He sent for some from their Governments, changing the Presidents and chiefe Officers of the Cities and other places: being reve­rently and punctually obeyed by all, out of the customary use he had even in Thoas life, freely and with authority to doe so, as Pre­sident [Page 102]General. His pleasure was that Me­laspus should with due circumspection live in the Kings Palace, and he himself retired into the Castle, as into a place of the grea­test safety, the possession whereof was of great importance to the preservation of go­vernment: Two things onely remain'd to settle him in the Kingdom as he thought; the one to disband the Army which was already sent by the late King against the Commonwealth of Famagosta, or to make himself independent Governor there­of: The other to secure himself for ever of Doralbo, who was esteemed by the Nobili­ty of great power in the Army, and much beloved by the people. The first required well weighed determinations and prepon­derated execution: The second was to be establisted in the death of the unfortunate Prince. So sending for the chief Marshal, he with a frowning countenance strictly com­manded him, that taking the Headsman a long with him, & as few bloud-suckers as he judged necessary for the execution, not ma­king any the least mention therof, no not so much as in a word, he should go that very night about midnight to the Dungeon where Doralbo was, and that having stran­gled him, he should cause his head to be cut [Page 103]off, and bring it secretly into the Castle to him. O how oft doth the impiety of wic­ked men, whilst it thinkes to triumph over the fall of the innocent, rest opprest by those very ruines which they unjustly threatned others withall.

Nissena having acquainted Eurania with all the traps and treacheries which she had understood was laid and prepared for them by Mintaurus, she being a Woman of a great courage, and resolute wit, betook her self quickly to remedy those evils which threatned not onely the losse of the King­dome, but even the losse of their lives. Next morning about break of day, whilst two women who lay in the Queens lodg­ings were yet asleep, she clothed her self and made Nissena also cloath her self in Pages apparell; and afterwards having horridly besmear'd the Queens sheets, & the chamber floor with bloud, which shee had formerly prepared ready, she began to cry out, Ah Traytors! Are Queens thus butchered and murthered in their own Houses and own Beds? Help, help, Souldiers, Ladies, unless you be all confederates in the treason. O Traytors! Help, O you good Gods!

At this noyse the Guards hasted into the Chamber, and the women leaping out of [Page 104]bed, throwing their clothes about them, and almost naked, did the like; whilst at this very instant Nissena and Eurania hid themselves behind the Arras in the out­ward room; and in this confused tumult, escaped away unknown and unseen, not on­ly out of that Chamber, but out of the Court; and being got out of the Citie, went towards the Haven. The Souldiers and women half clad, finding nothing but great quantity of bloud, panting and full of tears, sought every corner of the lodg­ings; and struck with amazement, they could not imagine from whence those dole­full cries could proceed, nor whither the murtherers were fled, and the murthered va­nisht. They spent much time in searching, in contemplating the bloudy sheets and Pavement, and not knowing what to think, nor what to resolve on: some of them ran to acquaint Mintaurus with it; who, wa­kened out of a sound sleep, was confus'd for a long while, and knew not what to think. Having discust the matter maturely with himself, he gave out Orders, and sent Mes­sengers into all parts to make diligent in­quiry what kind of people had gone out of Nicosia early that morning, and could hear of none but of two young youths who were [Page 105]imagined to be two of the Court Pages, who upon the break of day were gone on foot towards the Sea side. Having heard this, he made the guards of the Haven be examined whether any Vessell had weighed anchor that morning or no, and which way they were bent. He was informed for cer­tain, that two young youths had at an ex­orbitant price, hired a Pinace, upon agree­ment that without any intermission of time they should be speedily wafted over to Rhodes. Mintaurus guest at what was true, and would not suffer them to be pur­sued, being glad that Nissena by her going from Cyprus, had ta'ne from him that one­ly impediment which could keep him from freely enjoying the Crown, unless he should have used some violent courses. The crafty wicked man did notwithstanding dissemble the businesse, and seeming to beleeve that the Queen was dead, did not onely profess and exagerate his innocency, but bewail'd her death, and shewed himselfe ready to re­venge it with severity, if he could at any time know who the offender was, or who were his complices, which he with all dili­gence sought after in all places. And the better to colour over these his Fictions, the Soldiers who were that night of the Queens [Page 106]Guard, and the two Waiting-women who lay in her rooms, were by his command imprisoned, and strictly examined. He ve­ry well knew how much it made for the ef­fecting of his desires, that the people should beleeve Nissena to be dead, since that he being known to be free from the fact; as indeed he was, he might with ease purchase the peoples good will, who are apt to alter their inclinations, and that so much the more in a case wherein they must either ad­here to him, or appear to be partiall to her who was supposed dead. One thought perplext him, that she being arrived in Rhodes, might peradventure obtain suffi­cient aid from Prince Fermondo to wage war with him, and endeavour to recover the Kingdome: And though he did not fear his Forces, as farre inferior to those of Cyprus, he did partly feare the wrath of Heaven, which his inward sting of Con­science did continually threaten him with­all.

Nissena and Eurania met with no sinister adventure, neither in their going from Nico­sia, nor when they were gone thence, save onely that their journey to the Sea side being somwhat long, they were so weary, as they were necessitated to get a Countrey [Page 107]Fellow to be their Guide, who furnisht them with an ill guided horse, upon the w^ch they rid by course, now one then the other, till they came to the desired Haven, paying bountifully for their Horse hire; they hired a Rhodian pinace, conditioning that they should presently put their Oars into the wa­ter, and hoist up their Sails, the vvind being Westwardly, and good for their intended Navigation. They were forthwith obey­ed, giving themselves out to be the Queens Pages, vvho for some very important busi­ness were to go for Rhodes. The Sun began already to incline toward the West, and they saw not as yet any vessell or ship which vvas parted from the Cyprian shore to pur­sue them, vvhen thinking themselves either not minded by the Tyrant, or their flight not by him discovered, beleeved they vvere free from any pursuit of his. Eurania then calling the Pilot of the Pinace to her, made herselfe freely known unto him, telling him that Nissena vvas the Marquiss of Faler­no's daughter, and now by hereditary suc­cession Queen of Cyprus: He prostrated himselfe before their feet, resting assured by their aspects, and by their manner of Dis­course, that they had told the truth, and excusing himself for that he had not before [Page 108]used himselfe vvith such obsequiousness to­wards them as he ought, he said; He thought it fit (if it might stand vvith their liking) that they should acquaint him why they went to Rhodes under those feigned ha­bits, that he might be the better able to serve them with all fitting respect. Our voyage (said Eurania) must not be for Rhodes, you must tack about towards the North, and carry us to the Army, vvhich is incamped neer Siuri and Pigadia; for when we shall be come thither, vve hope that Prince Doralbo vvill by force of Arms place Nissena again upon the Regall Throne, vvhich she hath abandoned for fear of being slain by cruell Mintaurus. He ac­knowledged himself much obliged to For­tune, which had blest him with so happy an occasion of serving them, and assured them that unless the winds should betray him, he would bring them before midday to land in a little Haven very neer the Army, all the parts of the Island being very well known to him.

Doralbo's unexpected and hasty leaving of the Army, made Theocastro and Filarbo begin to imagine what the urgent occasion might be which had made him leave them without any respect had so much as to his [Page 109]own health, though grievously wounded; and not so much as waiting for the next day: They thought it fit to follow him, perswaded that he had done it out of some interest wherein the Crown was concern'd; so as knowing by report that Nissena was to succeed in the Kingdome, and desirous to serve their Cousen in what they were able, they resolved, that one of them stay­ing to take care of the Army, the other should follow the Prince. Theocastro then departed within a few hours after Doralbo was gone, and his brother Filarbo under­took to provide for all things diligently which should be requisite for the Army till his return. The next night following save one, he might see two whom at first sight he took to be young youths, enter the Pa­villion; but soon finding one of them to be Eurania, the other Nissena, cloathed in mans aparrell, he said unto them, What is the good or bad Fortune, Ladies, that hath brought you hither in these habits? They drawing him aside, and making all but his Servants and Friends leave them, they ac­quainted him with all the troubles which had happened since the Kings death: and that finally they might escape the danger of losing their lives, were inforced to fly from [Page 110] Mintaurus his treacheries, and to come thi­ther to be advised by, and to receive timely help from Doralbo, who being a man of great authority, and having chief com­mand of the Army, was he alone who was able to re-establish Nissena, as lawful Queen in the government of the Kingdom, know­ing very well that they might securely build upon him.

Filarbo was sorry that they came so late, whilst the Prince followed by Theocastro was in unlooked for haste gone towards Nicosia; but he said they were not notwith­standing to despair of their pretended suc­cour, he being ready with all the Army o­ver which he commanded with a derivato­ry power, to be by them imployed as they should be pleased. 'Twas resolved that in the interim they should be kept conceal'd from the knowledge of the Army, till they had resolved what to do: putting on their womanly apparel, Doralbo's Tent was pri­vatly appointed for them, wherein they were to stay attended but by some few till they should have put on some resolution. When Nissena consulting only with her own thoughts, began to consider how un­fortunately she had in vain come from Ni­cosia to the Camp to finde out her beloved [Page 111] Doralbo, who amongst her so many mis­fortunes was her greatest care. She suffered her self to be so carried away with a vio­lent love passion, as she could neither eat nor sleep, but fed her breast and eyes only with sighs and tears. The Prince his ab­sence whose merit was already ingraven in her heart, was not the only thing which made her lament; she found her self struck through with those accidents, which by se­curing her of the fervency of his love, should have rather comforted then afflicted her.

O how readily (said she within her self) hath my Doralbo obeyed my very beck, that scarcely come from the battel, and wounded too, he hath with winged feet flown to receive my commands. Unhappy me! Let it not please the Gods that he be come to Nicosia at a time when he may be­lieve my feigned death to be true: but say it be so: if it shall have so faln out, I shall at least know with what resentments of sorrow and compassion he shall have wedded my funerals. I shall from hence prove his af­fection; alas, I know well enough without any testimony, that he loves me as much as a man may love, and I am bound to corre­spond in love, with him, and so I do; since [Page 112]whether my fortune be to live a privat wo­man, or to be re-invested in the Throne of Cyprus, my heart shall never be capable of any amorous affection save for Doralbo. Do thou prove true to me as I shall do to thee. How much more would she have lamented, if she had known he was in prison, condem­ned to death, and perhaps his head struck off. These were her mental discourses when she was alone, but when she discour­sed either with Eurania or Filarbo, she tal­ked of nothing else but how she might re­possess her self of the Crown, and if some­times she indeavoured to hear tidings of Doralbo, it was under pretence that his pre­sence would have helped much to the com­passing of her designes. Eurania, as crafty as a Lady of honest and untoucht reputati­on could be, very well understood her Nie­ces inward passions, and having pitty of her, durst not take any the least notice thereof, fearful lest she should be offended that others should discern and penitrate in­to those affections, which she desired to keep conceald as much as possibly she could.

Many days being spent in vain in ex­pectation of Doralbo's and Theocastro's re­turn, or of some news from them, and no [Page 113]news being heard, after many consultati­ons had and argued too and fro, by Nissena, Eugenia, and Filarbo, they all of them re­solved to send Ambassadors to the Senat of Famagosta, to desire that they would be pleased to give audience to a certain perso­nage who with tvvo only Companions de­manded leave to be admitted into their pre­sence to treat of peace: and in the mean time they would expect Doralbo's return which could not be long: This was done; and those grave Senators did both rejoyce and wonder to hear peace propounded by a victorious Enemy, from whom they had learn'd at the expence of bloud, to fear force, and this they did the rather for that they could expect but little help from So­ria, wherein was raised a terrible fire of re­bellion. Some of them cautiously doubt­ed that some Warlick stratagem might lie hid under a specious pretence of peace, so as they were long in consulting how the propounded personages might be brought into the Senat; at last their answer was; that they would willingly give them a hearing; on condition notwithstanding that they should enter the City unarmed, and with their eyes blindfoulded. according to custom.

All this while there was no news of Do­ralbo's return, whereat Nissena was so much afflicted, as he must have had a Tygers heart who would not have pittied her if she had as openly demonstrated her passions, as she kept them conceal'd. The day was come, nay the very hour wherein the Commissio­ners from the Camp were to be brought to the Senat of Famagosta, and presently it was noised throughout the whole Army, that Nissena by right of succession Queen of Cyprus was she who accompanied by Eura­nia and Filarbo, would by her going into the Enemies Citie put an end to the War, and conclude a well settled peace. She past through the midst of the Army all covered over vvith a sad black mantle, but her fair countenance, her vvhite bosome, and her lively eyes shevved a Majestie so svveetly severe as she made her self at once be both feared and adored: She past through the Army reverenced and adored as a Goddess: For vvheresoever Mars governs, Venus finds alvvaies obsequious and devout hearts. The Commissioners vvere vvaited for by tvvo chief Officers of the Senat at that gate of the Town which led towards the Camp: where Nissena being come, alighted out of the Coach, and led underneath the arms by [Page 115] Eurania and Filarbo, the Officers of Fama­gosta stood amazed no less at her beauty then at the unusual novelty of the Ambassy, when they bound her eyes they in a low voice within themselves complained that they were to rob the people of the pleasing object of those eyes, which were unworthy to be covered, had it not been pretended that like sacred things, they were to be hid­den underneath a vail. Thus said these two gray heads, at once both admiring and making themselves merry with Nissena's more then human beautie: But they stood musing not without suspition of some fu­ture evil to what end this unusual Treaty of Women might be. Being admired by the people, she came into the Senat, nor need­ed this fairest Oratrice to win their attenti­ons by any artificial Rhetorick, since all the Senators with their eyes fixt upon her, stood expecting what graceful and eloquent speech was to proceed from that mouth, which was so rich in treasures. Some of them, whose hearts were not frozen, though snow lay on their hair, said with fitting vi­vacity; How is it possible that she should treat of peace, whilst at the very first aspect her countenance intimates War? Having made her requisit reverence, and being sat [Page 116]on a chair which was prepared for her, whilst Eurania and Filarbo stood retir'd be­hind, she spake thus.

That fire of War, which with barbarous flames hath hitherto unduly imbroyl'd and consumed the felicity of peace even to ash­es, which hath wasted the fruit of the fields, exhausted the treasure of Exchequers, and been the death of those Subjects who have as gloriously as unopportunely shed their bloud and lost their lives, is quencht: The fire of War, I say, most grave and wise Se­nators, is quencht: nor do I come hither to invite you to lay down arms, or to treat of peace, but to pronounce peace already e­stablished and concluded between your Commonwealth, and our Kingdom of Cyprus. Wonder not that I speak of peace already concluded and established: I very well know that in a Senat whose wisdom hath always been equal to their unwrested and immaculate Justice, Justice must also equal their impeccable and always constant wisdom. I speak of that Justice, by which upon so many occurrences, and affairs as well of Peace as War, you have delated the fame of your glory, not only through­out the whole circuit of this Island, but also throughout the whole World, which [Page 117]seems now too narrow a circuit to contain the noise thereof. I speak of that Wis­dome, the least glories whereof are, the preserving of your Liberties unviolated, though subject to a regal Scepter, and in this Liberty, the so bounding the provoca­tions of ambition and authority, as all of you being equall Lords and Commanders, eve­ry one strives who shall most willingly sub­mit to anothers Government, knowing at once both how to obey and command. By this Justice, and this Wisdom, I see peace already granted to my proposals, though these vertues never appeared more eminent­ly amongst you, then in your so generously taken up Arms of late against this Crown. I say the occasions of raising this Warre have been in you no less just, then was your Wisdom. How could you most grave Fa­thers, more wisely or more justly shew your resentment of a Kings proceedings, who requiring a Contribution from you impossible for you to disburse, vvould in­force you to be disobedient, that he might pretend to a lavvfull occasion of taking from you your Senatorie Authoritie, and by destroying a Commonvvealth, vvhich hath for so many ages injoy'd an Aristocraticall Government? Alas! your Justice and your [Page 118]Wisdom could not be more worthily im­ployed; but neither could your Justice nor your Wisdome be more unjustly betraid by an infamous and wicked Minister of State, who falsifying the Kings Seals, and abusing the authority wherwith he was undeserving­ly intrusted, made false reports be spread abroad amongst you, not onely by coun­terfeit Orders in publick Senat, but a­mongst privat men by lying letters, that the intentions of that best and gracious King aimed at framing pretences to raise a warre, whereby he might pretend to bereave you not onely of the Name, Priviledges, and authority, but even of the essence of a Common-wealth.

This was the Traytor Mintaurus, who raised up to wealth by Fortune, to the fa­vour of his naturall Lord and Master, and to dignities, seeing the King left without succession, grew so greedily in love with the Scepter, as to arrive at the managing thereof, he hath endeavoured and com­mitted the most execrable villanies which could be wrought, I will not say by Man, but by any Infernall Fury. He was the wicked poysoner, who not to see his con­ceived hopes of reigning thrown to the ground by Thoas his marriage, did by [Page 119]mortiferous poyson cause Death be min­gled with his meat; whence in stead of pas­sing to the joyes of a Nuptiall Bed, he is fatally and unfortunately past to the hor­rors of the grave. This was the sacrilegi­ous cousener, who to disturb the tran­quillity of that marriage which might hin­der his arrivall at the Goal of his complot­ted ends, made her who was destin'd to be the Kings wife, beleeve by false advertise­ments, that he would make her partner of his bed, not as his lawfull wife, but as his dishonest whore. He is that cruell Pari­cide, who after having wickedly and un­gratefully bereft him of life from whom he ought to acknowledge whatsoever he hath of greatness, glory, or riches; hath not onely hinder'd that Nissena from peacefully succeeding to the Inheritance, who was by Thoas at his last expiring breath, with all cordiality left heir to the Kingdome, but hath usurped her authority, laid snares for her life, ta'ne from her her liberty; and finally, stoln the Crown from her. He is the unworthy Tyrant who now unjustly sits upon the Regall Throne of Cyprus, having raised himselfe thereunto by cruelty, trea­chery, murder, injustice, and by the down­fall of others. Let that same justice and [Page 120]wisdome then, grave Senators, which moved you to take up Arms against a King who was always partial to your interests, excite you to peace with your lawfull Queen, and to revenge against that infamous subverter of the common quiet. This doth very wel become your justice and wisdome too hei­nously offended and abused. You ow this in charity to her innocency, who by me implores help and succour from you. From you it is that she may have the Fortune to acknowledge her Kingdome, Liberty and Life, if by joyning our Forces together we shall goe to throw down that unworthy one from the Throne, who hath known how to make you appear unwise and unjust, who hath known how to steal a Scepter, and who will know how to tyrannize over his subjects, and make impiety triumph eve­ry where. From you the people shall ac­knowledge their happiness, the Queen her Scepter, and the Gods themselves respects and victims. Let it not be said that Laun­ces be leveld, or Swords ta'ne in hand ei­ther by your or our Souldiers in offence of one another, but let us joyntly and una­nimously turn our Arms to the ruine of that wicked Tyrant, of that enemy to our quiet, of that betrayer of our Liberty, to the most [Page 121]barbarous, disloyall, and most wicked man of as many as this day live. Let us run to revenge our Souldiers faln in the last Bat­tell, and let us offer as a Sacrifice to their shadows vvho doe require it of us, the damn'd Deceiver, who hath been the fatall occasion of so much bloud and death. Let us go to purchase unto our selves by a short and eafie warre, a long and quiet peace; nay rather let us goe to a glorious and cer­tain triumph. Let us goe then you who are as wise as generous. The untild and unma­nur'd grounds opprest, and as it were groa­ning under the Footsteps of fierce Souldi­ers, under the Iron Hoofs of warlike Horses, and under the weight of warlike Engines, doe with flowry eloquence intreat it at our hands. Fruitfull mothers fearing to see their children die by the unjust Ax, intreat it at our hands. Brides doe intreat us there­unto, fearing lest they may shortly bewaile the losse of their beloved Consorts either shut up in prison or put to death upon the Gallows. We have the prayers of young Virgins for this, not sure to keep the flower of their virginity unviolated under the government ef so perverse a Ruler, who wil always foment lust and wickedness. Tender Babes from out their Cradles, with tears, & [Page 122]mouths new puld from their mothers breasts, intreat us hereunto, being sure to have their innocency trampled under foot under the shadow of a Scepter, which will protect and fauter triumphant faults. And finally, I Nissena of Rhodes, by inheri­tance lawfull Successor of the Crown of Cyprus, the which doth as justly belong to me, as it hath been by Mintaurus unjustly possest, 'tis I who beg this of you. The king­dom of due belongs to me, who wife to the late Thoas, was by him in his life time crow­ned Queen, & in his death confirmed in the Dominion. I, as such a one, doe both de­mand and offer peace; and being betraid and opprest, I flie to you for justice and assistance. Let us then unite our forces I be­seech you, and let us carry the War home to his gates who hath subverted peace. Nor will it be without glory to your renowned valor, that the Tyrant be by your means punisht, and be by you hurld down to his own bloud from his usurped Throne. Let us goe, for I invite you to peace, glory, and victory.

Here she held her peace: Nor was there any one in that great and grave Assembly, who did not joyfully and humbly offer to expose their own persons to any the greatest [Page 123]danger which might tend to remit her into her just and lawfull possession of the crown. In the mean time they strove who should first come with bended knees to shew vvith obsequiousness their duty to her Majesty. They placed her in the worthiest and most eminent place, whilst they with their hats off stood on foot; protesting unto her by the mouths of the best spoken men amongst them, their ancient devotion towards the Crown of Cyprus, and complaining of that false deceiver, who by abusive fraud had necessitated them to take up arms against their King, at all other times, and upon all other occasions respected and honored by them as became them. They thanked her for the proffered peace, which they willing­ly accepted of, protesting themselves much bound unto her for that she was pleased to make use of them to recover her Kingdom. They offered unto her not onely the pub­lick moneys, but even the moneys of their privat purses, as much of their Army as was left; and finally, they acknowledged her, and bowed unto her as their lawfull Queen, swearing eternall and inviolable al­legiance to her, Whilst these Welcomes vvere exercised there, the Ladies of the Citie were advertised, that the exceeding [Page 124]fair Lady, who not long before was come thither under a pretence of Ambassie, was the Queen Nissena, the merit of whose beauty had raised her to the Crown, and of whom they had formerly heard. Where­upon they, to pay their due respects to so great a Princesse, and out of curiositie to see whether her beauty did answer to the fame thereof, putting on their richest Or­naments and best aparrell, they went in guilded Coaches to the Palace, to serve and reverence her. The newes of the concluded peace vvas this mean while spread abroad amongst the people, with which all the Citizens and common people being over­joyed, did every where applaud the Queens beauty and wisdome. She came forth at­tended by the Ladies and Senators, many whereof waited upon her to the Camp, whilst the common people, that they might also see a beauty which knew how to merit Kingdoms, by the noise of Trumpets and beating up of Drums, fild the Heavens with shouts of Jubilee and rejoycing. Be­fore 'twas night, the chief Commanders of the lately before enemies Army, came to her Pavillion on the Senats behalf, to re­ceive her commands: offering themselves to march with their Militia, whithersoever [Page 125]she should command them, she received them in a grave and courteous manner, sending them back presented vvith some little Jevvels vvhich she had carried vvith her vvhen she fled from Nicosia.

This mean while consultation was had how and in what manner they were to de­part, and Nissena thinking she had put the means already in a fair way whereby she might repossess her self of her Crown, had now nothing to afflict her self with, but the thought of her Doralbo, of whom hearing no news, she could little rejoyce at any o­ther good success, which either had or could happen unto her, She could not so much conceal this disquiet of her mind, but that she gave express command that before the Armies should march towards Nicosia, two of the most experienc'd and crafty Sol­diers should be sent to learn some news of the Prince and of Theocastro, and at the same time to find with what number of Sol­diers the Citie was guarded, and in what condition of peace and safetie Mintaurus and Melaspus were with the people, whether beloved or hated: whether they behaved themselves as Lords and Kings, or whe­ther but as Officers of the Kingdom.

VVhen Filarbo and Theocastro as hath [Page 126]been said before, saw Doralbo though wounded go from the Camp towards Ni­cosia, they thought it fit to follow him, whereupon not many hours after his de­parture, Theocastro took the same way. He came to the Citie at that fatal instant, when the Prince, desperat out of Nissena's belie­ved death, having indeavoured to kill Me­laspus, was committed to Prison. So as hearing of his being in hold, he thought it good to keep himself conceal'd, least he might be thought guilty as complice of the attempted Homicides, and that he might the better observe what they resol­ved to do with the Prince, to the end that he might assist him, and purchase if it were possible, his safetie and libertie, though it should cost him his life. Getting to this purpose into a friends house on whose fide­litie he might relie, he desired to know what urgent occasion had induced Doralbo to so strange and unadvised a resolution: and he was informed, that being provoked by his exceeding anger at the Queens sup­posed death, he resolved to revenge her, whose death was afterwards found to be false, but that it was true that she was fled to Rhodes. He lamented his Cousins misfortune, but much more Doralbo's dan­ger, [Page 127]as being more grievous and more im­minent; he being imprisoned, and exposed to the arbitrarie judgment of an unjust, se­vere independent, and interressed Magi­strate, from whom in all probabilitie no­thing but cruel resentments could be ex­pected. He resolved therefore that very night to discover what Mintaurus his in­tentions were against the imprisoned Prince; and to this purpose he sent to the Lord Chancellor in the name of one of the chief Lords of the Court, to know whether sentence were alreadie pronounced against Doralbo or no, as being already convinc'd of the Fact, so as all process or examination would prove superfluous. He could learn nothing from him, but that Mintaurus had sent for the chief Marshal, and given him some privat directions. Theocastro growing hereby more desirous of informa­tion, would go himself, protected by the darkness of the night, to know of the chief Marshal, who was his familiar friend, whe­ther Doralbo were in any eminent danger of death or no; This man lived near the Court, and from his Lodgings (where he his wife, and children lived)there was a passage through a narrow tarrace to a pair of stairs which landed in a common little [Page 128]yard, but not much frequented, wherein were the first gates of the under-ground Prisons, in the worst and most incommo­dious whereof, the unfortunate Prince Do­ralbo was shut in, whose head by the Ty­rants command was to be struck off. Theo­castro tarried till the night was well advan­ced, and then himself accompanied by his friend and one servant, went unknown, and as secretly as could be, to the Marshals ha­bitation, when coming near his gate, he might hear him chide his wife and daugh­ters aloud, for that having alreadie supt, they did not haste to make his bed, where­on he might for some two hours take his rest, what unusual haste is this that you are in, reply'd one of his daughters? and why no more then tvvo hours rest? to whom he fetching a deep sigh reply'd: Alas that I might rest all night in my bed, but I must ere long rise, and go with the heads-man and some Soldiers, to take off unfortunate Prince Doralbo's head; who by a rash, but truly a generous action hath this day deserv'd to die. Divers words past after­vvards betvveen the father, vvife and daughters, vvhich Theocastro did not very perfectly understand, vvho had heard suf­ficient to make him depart anger'd, and al­most [Page 129]besides himself; in so much as he spoke not a vvord till he vvas come to his friends house vvhere he lay. Theocastro took his friend aside into a chamber, and then vvith a sad and melancholy counte­nance, vented to him his painfull passion vvhich opprest him for Doralbo's approach­ing death: and resolved howsoever, he would venture his life to save him; he pro­pounded unto him a means which might easily succeed, if he and four other armed men would second his resolutions. He put him in minde of the Prince his deserts, from whom he might expect to be grate­fully requited, if so be the enterprise should prove successfull. He minded him of his obligation, which as Nissena's Cousin, in whose revenge it was that Doralbo had done what he did, bound him to whatsoever dan­gerous attempt. How they should be re­warded by her, if she should regain her Kingdom; and finally he call'd unto his mind the publique good in Mintaurus his downfall, whom he was assured he could infallibly kill: but that all was suddenly to be resolved upon, and to be put in executi­on, it being of necessity to be done within a few hours. His friend being all heart and courage, wholoved no less Doralbo's worth [Page 130]and valour, then he hated Mintaurus his Tyranny, offered himself ready to do any thing; and chusing two of his ablest and trusty servants, they provided themselves all four of excellent Arms, and leaving their own house went towards the chief Marshals Lodgings. They were not gone a bow-shot forward, when two Gentlemen that were brethren, but enemies to Mintau­rus his faction, knocking at the gate of a noble Palace, desired help and assistance; they rejoyced to see themselves assisted not only by them, but by two of their swagger­ing companions, who were thought to be the best and most resolute blades of all Nicosia. They in a short time arrived very hush and quiet at the little yard by which the way lay to the Marshals Lodgings: nor had they staid there long when they might hear a noise out of a window, as of the clattering of keys, and of men who spoke loud enough; These were the Jai­lor, and the dog-leeches who were ap­pointed to cut off unfortunate Doralbo's head, who coming in to hasten the chief Marshal, made ready the prison keys, and it being now somewhat late and a fitting time, were ready for the tragical execution. As they came out into the Tarrace, Theo­castro [Page 131]and his Companions withdrew themselves aside, and they having descen­ded the stairs, opened the first gate, and entring in, would have shut it again, when they might see themselves assaulted by the armed and resolute Companions, and heard themselves threatned with present death, if they did not instantly without re­ply, or so much as breathing, deliver the keys unto them, and serve them quietly as a guide to the Prison wherein the condemn­ed Prince was. It was bootless for those Officers to defend themselves, or by their outcries to call in help, which had they done, they would assuredly have hastened their threatned death; and 'twas impossi­ble for them to be heard from that lote­ranean place, let them have cryed never so loud: the first gate being already secured on the inside by the provident Gentlemen. To fight valliantly with their swords in hand, was not to be expected from base pusillanimous men, whose births and souls were as abject as was their profession. Not able to do otherwise, they resolved to obey: 'twas better for them to expose themselves to the hazard of a future and uncertain death, then to what was most certain and present. Theocastro knowing them to be [Page 132]cowardly and base spirited, said unto them with voice of terror: If you will readily obey our command, I will promise you both life and reward; if not, you are all dead men. Open those gates there quickly hoe, and tell me as quickly what unjust act you were comanded to do by the Tyrant. Sir! said the chief Marshall, with a quive­ring voice, the heavens know how contra­ry it is to my genius to be imployed in such like affairs, but the Fates will have it so. We are servants, and must serve by force, if not by good will. I humbly and sub­missively assigne over into your protection my life, and the lives of these men which are now aies safe from Mintaurus his ri­gour, if I do not before midnight be over, present him with Doralbo's head. Advance and let us in, replied Theocastro, thou shalt present him with the Princes head, but in another manner then he expects. Whilst they were thus discoursing they came to the dore which was alreadie open, and which opened into the narrow moist noi­some and dark dungeon, in which with his hands straight tied together with a cord, the sad and alreadie languishing Prince stood leaning against the wall; he was not able to indure the torch light, being disac­customed [Page 133]from light, wherefore he turn'd his face from them whilst he thus spake: How now my friends, the hour of my death is now come, is it not? yes, yes, draw near boldly, let the wicked Tyrant glut himself with my bloud, for death does no whit dismaie me, save only that I could not first revenge the death of that innocent fair one whom none but that barbarous fel­low could have the heart so cruelly to kill. Death is to me most welcome, which will open the same way unto me through which my soul is alreadie past; miserable Doral­bo, how great is thy misfortune, who be­ing born a Prince, must die by the hands of a hangman: but patience; come near I say, give me only so much leave as I may pronounce and often repeat Nissena's name, and then let the fatal blow come; for I de­sire nor beg nothing more at your hands but that I may breath forth my soul with that beloved name in my mouth.

Theocastro appearing then smilingly before him, said, Talk not of Death, Sir, where your servant Theocastro is; here am I, with these my faithfull friends, ready either to free you out of prison, or nobly to lose our lives together with you. Now tis that you must re­call unto you that generosity and valor which [Page 134]was born with you. Nissena lives, Sir, and we will all live to his shame and confusion who hath occasioned these troubles: Come out from this noysome hole, and joyfully follow me. The tears gusht into Doralbo's eyes for joy, when he heard that Nissena was alive, who weeping almost down-right, spoke thus, It would not much import, my friend, though you should abuse me in promising me my life and liberty; but your sin would not be small, if you should tell a falshood that Nissena lives. Is it true that she is alive? She lives, she lives, Sir, (reply'd Theocastro) 'tis not I that doe deceive you, 'tis you your selfe, who be­leeving her to be dead, would unseasonably and precipitously revenge that death which she did not suffer. She and Eurania to escape Mintaurus his violence, fled away: and to fa­cilitate and secure their escape, they cunningly left the bed and floor all besmear'd with blood. At these words Doralbo cheered up, and his hands being untied by one of the Gentle­men that accompanied Theocastro, he had the chief Marshals weapons given him; who, together with the rest of his Officers, was forced to lay them down, and to take an oath that they would doe whatsoever stould be commanded them. They resol­ved to wrap up somewhat or other, it mat­ter'd [Page 135]not what which should be about the bulk or Bookdome of Doralbo's head, with the which the chief Marshall going before, might guide them all into the Castle where Mintaurus was, who had formerly given order unto the Guard, that about that hour they should suffer any of the Officers of Justice to come in, and stood longing­ly expecting, to see in that hated head his sons revenge, and himself in a good part secured of the Kingdome. They past, not meeting with any interruption, to the cham­ber door, wherein the Tyrant lay in Bed, but awake, reading some letters which he had received from divers of the Presidents, who acquainted him with affairs belonging to the Kingdome. The fatall houre, Min­taurus, is arrived, wherein thou must pass from this life, to give an account to the E­ternal Gods, for thy so many and so execra­ble misdoings; and thou dreamest of no­thing less then dying. Thus doth Heaven punish the wicked, when they do least think on't. Doralbo entred first with a Dagger drawn in his right hand, and followed by the rest: he flew towards the bed with so sudden a force, as the Tyrant seeing him­selfe so unexpectedly set upon by him, whom he conceived to be already behea­ded, [Page 136]he could not for very fear speak so much as one word: save that when he had received four or five stabs, he cryed out, You have overcome, O you Traytors: and wallowing in his own bloud, upon the same Bed wherein he thought shortly to take quiet rest, he remain'd a dead, bloudy, and horrid Karkass, as an example to all rash men, who think it lawfull to provoke the Divine anger with reiterated faults, perswading themselves that they shall escape unpunished. It remained now for the Prince and his companions to secure the Castle; but it was first resolved that Theo­castro should immediatly get out of the Citie, and make with all speed for Rhodes, where the publick report was that Nissena was gone. At whose desires he might very well hope, that Prince Fermondo would not refuse two well arm'd Gallies, fraught with good store of Souldiers; the which the ty­rant being dead, and Doralbo commanding the Castle, would suffice to reinvest her in her Throne; or if she her self would come along, she should find many of the Nobi­lity who would side with her, and be sure to have the adherence of all the common people; so as with those few people which she should bring with her, she might easily [Page 137]recover the Crown. Long consultation was had whether the small Garrison which did guard the Castle, was to be won by threats, or by gold, great store of which vvas found in Mintaurus his chests: but the very noyse that Prince Doral'o had made himselfe master thereof, and had kild the Tyrant, was sufficient to make the Souldi­ers come of themselves, and offer their ser­vice to him; by whom being received as became a Prince, and rewarded with good summes of money, they swore to be faithful to him till death.

Theocastro went forth upon his intended enterprise, and the draw bridge being hoi­sted up, and the Percullis let down, Min­taurus his body was hung out upon a Bat­tlement of the Castle which was most ex­posed to the view of the Citie. The sight of this horrid and unlook'd for spectacle the next morning, caus'd joy in many, in others fear, and in all men wonder. I am not able to express into what raging fury Melaspus fell when he heard this fatall acci­dent. All men discoursed diversly, accor­dingly as they vvere particularly addicted or inclin'd, how and by whom so great and dangerous a deed could be effected; but understanding that the prison gates stood [Page 138]open wherein Doralbo was shut up, and that the chiefe Marshall, and some other sub­ordinate Officers vvere missing, they all of them did partly guesse vvhat the matter might be. Foolish Melaspus supposing himself betrayed, and not knowing by vvhom, fell into such threatning and in­considerate speeches, as did displease many even of his own faction: he vvould blow up the Castle, bury his Father under the ruines of the vvhole Citie, make Rivers run vvith human bloud, and kill a great many that were innocent; so as amongst so many any one might be met vvithall vvho vvas guilty of his Fathers death, or had but the least hand in it. And yet by all these threats and violences the unwary young man got nothing but the generall hatred both of the Nobility and common people. Many dayes were not past, vvhen yet to his further vexation, nay even to the reducing him to despair, he heard news by a Messen­ger, vvho came running, out of breath, that a numerous Army vvhich came from the East, over-spread all the Countrey, com­ming towards Nicosia, and that they could not at that time be above twenty miles off. Inraged and biting his fingers ends, he in a disdainfull manner broke forth into these [Page 139]vvords, I see you unjust Heavens, you can­not imploy your maligne Influences but to my prejudice, for which if I cannot for the pre­sent shew any resentment, I will not howsoever die unrevenged; I will likewise learn to pe­rish gallantly. Let them come, let my enemies hasten to bereave me of my life, for I am ready to dye, but I will first make my self a Tomb of their Karkasses. Let them come, they shall not find me running away, but ready to stand their shock. Thus he spent two hours, or thereabouts, blaspheming the Gods, and cursing his perverse stars; but at last his an­ger breathing a little over, he betook him­self to more peacefull, and lesse imprudent thoughts, he resolved to withdraw himself from his present misfortune, hoping to get to Soria, and by his Wealth, Wit, and Gallantry, to return again to Cyprus, and to regain his fortune by the bloud and ruine of his enemies. Having heaped up as much gold, and as many jewels as he could, he vvent vvith some of his faith­fullest and dearest friends, towards the Ha­ven, where having hired an English Man of War, he lancht immediatly into the Deep, where fortune appeared yet more adverse unto him. His Vessell was not well got into the Issican Gulf, when it must suffer it [Page 140]self to be disposed of at the pleasure of an impetuous wind, which blowing from the North, made the ship take a clean contrary Road from what it was bound for. They sunk their Anchors to stay the violence of their course; but their greatest Cable being burst in two by a violent gust of wind, they were tossed too and fro for three nights and two dayes by the storm; which after ha­ving hurld them every where about those Seas, left them at last becalm'd with their ship all torn, a day and a halfes sail from Cyprus to the Eastward.

By how much Melaspus misfortune was in plowing up the Seas, so much the more suc­cessfull was Theocastro's voyage in a light Pinnace towards Rhodes; whether being come, he heard that that very day Nissena's funerals were celebrated, the being bewai­led for dead by her friends, and by the whole Island. Of which the better to as­sure himself, he went directly to the Temple of Pallas, where in dolefull pomp this sad solemnity was to be celebrated. He was astonished, and wept at this unexpected ac­cident; but his grief and astonishment la­sted not long: For meeting with a Gentle­man who was much his friend, and who embracing him, welcom'd his return to [Page 141] Rhodes. Theocastro being impatient, asked him how and when Nissena died? You are better able to acquaint us with the manner & time thereof, reply'd his friend; for foras­much as I beleeve you are now come from Cyprus, and ought to know all the circum­stances of the death of the unfortunately betrayd Nissena. How, said Theocastro, did she not die here at Rhodes, whither she fled to save her selfe from the de­ceits & treachery of the Tyrant Mintaurus? She is so far from being dead in Rhodes, re­ply'd the other as she hath notbin seen here; but we received certain & publick advertise­ment, that by direction from the fore­mentioned Tyrant, she was barbarously wounded and slain, as she lay in bed. So, so, the Gods be praised, said Theocastro, Nissena is not dead, though her funerals be celebra­ted here. I came three dayes since from Ni­cosia, where the common report is that she is here, and I am come hither to bring her good news, and it may be to carry her back with me to take possession of the Kingdom. But for Gods sake, before the truth of this be publickly known, let us see the sad so­lemnity celebrated, at the vvhich vve may assist the less sorrowfully, in that we know 'tis done for one that is alive: and there­fore [Page 142]rather to be laughed at then lamented.

They went to the Temple, which being built by skilfull artificers in a no very large square figure, gloried in white Marble, though then all covered over with black Velvet, all imbroidered over and richly wrought with gold and silver, and at fit­ting distances Imperial Crowns dasht to pieces; broken Scepters, and huge Pearl shaped [...]nto tears, to the end that at so fatal a spectacle the very walls might seem to weep. From the highest Tribunal, shaped in a perfect round, and all vailed over with black, divers Cupidons hung upon undi­scernable threads of brass, weeping, and in several postures with torches lighted in their hands, seemed as if they flew in the air. Underneath another lesser Tribunal just opposit to the chief Porch, an altar was raised trampled on by a statue of Pal­las, which cloathed in mourning mantles, having on her breast a black breastplate, and on her head a helmet of like hue, held a launce in her right hand, and in her left a buckler or shield, wherein was cut agast­ly Gorgons head, and which as the Fune­ral lasted, vomited forth artificial fires from its gaping mouth, and ill looking eies: in the midst of the Temple there stood a [Page 143]square half pace, of a well proportioned height, adorned with handsome cornishes, and other artificial peeces of Architecture, the materials whereof seemed to be of pu­rest touchstone, and from the eyes and mouths of certain antick faces which lay thereon, great store of perfumed flames gusht out. Over the half pace stood a Ballaster, on whose uppermost Cornish sweet smelling insence fumed forth from odd fashioned races, hung at equal distance; from thence the three Graces made of pu­rest Alabaster, served for pedestals to a ca­pacious Fountain, the more miraculous and lovely for that instead of water, it in divers places ran in rivolets of fire. In midst of this pile stood a naked Cupid weeping, and having his eyes bound up, and which was upheld with an Atlas curiously cut out in red Marble, from whose quiver burst out continual torrents of flames to supply the Urne which stood beneath with combusti­ble materials. Thus with great demon­strations of publick sorrow, did Prince Fermondo and all the people of Rhodes be­wail the death of that Nissena, whose beau­ty if it had given her a Kingdom, it had (as was given out in that Island) by an unwor­thy change, bereft her of life.

I mention not the quality of the Sacrifi­ces, and other ceremonies which are com­monly used in those Temples upon such like occasions, because our ages have not been acquainted therewithall. The two Gen­tlemen did both admire and laugh at this noble Funeral Pomp, which by how much more stately it was, was so much the more vain, and worthy to be laughed at, because her sad cold ashes were therein celebra­ted, who was never better pleased, nor more content then at that hour. The Fu­nerals being ended Theocastro went to see his friends and kindred, whom he acquain­ted with the falshood of Nissena's reported death, and told them that instead of bewai­ling her as dead, he hoped they would shortly solemnize her assumption to the Kingdom; wherein she would be the more glorious and happie by her arriving there­at through the midst of a thousand treasons and treacheries in vain plotted against her by Mintaurus. He told them all that had hapned, and then going to kiss Prince Fermondo's hands, he moved both wonder and mirth in him, by witnessing that Nisse­na was alive, for the recovery of whose Kingdom he desired him to assist her only with two well arm'd Gallies; for which he [Page 145]might afterward at all times and upon all occasions, expect the like requital from the Queen, who would in a great part acknow­ledge the recovery of her Crown from his succour. Nissena shal acknowledge no ob­ligation to me, said gracious Fermondo, since the justice of her cause, and her own merit would have prompted me to greater things then this, to which I am bound as I am a Prince and a Gentleman. If two Gallies will not suffice you take four. My care shall be to give order for them, and let it be your care to make speedy use thereof, lest shee may suffer in her interest by delay. Bee prosperous in your journey, salute her in my name, and intreat her to make use of me to the utmost of my power. Theocastro retur­ned all due thanks, and took his leave, thinking suddenly to goe from Rhodes; though he staid a many days, being detai­ned by tempestuous weather. This mean while he was desired to take Emerino for Captain of one of the Gallies, he who was once so far in love with Nissena; but his flames of affection being extinguished in the tears of desperation, he had changed his love affections into the like of Friend­ship, or rather of obsequiousness, desiring to go to Cyprus for no other reason, but on­ly [Page 146]that he might glorie that he had not at all erred in the choice of his love, by be­queathing his heart to a beautie, who deser­ved the government of Venus her kingdom. The storms being over, they put from the haven in a serene calm, but the second day after their departure, they met with con­trary winds and foul weather, a calm in­suing not long after, they might see a ship not far off, which lying at Anchor, was by the provident Mariners mended in what she had suffered by the last storms: they turn'd a little out of their way to satisfie their cu­riosity in knowing to whom she did belong, and from whence she came, and this they did the rather for that they might perhaps, learn from those that were within her some tidings of the affairs of Cyprus: So as they steered their course thitherward, and cheer­ing up their Gallie-slaves with excellent wines, they incouraged them to row apace: assoon as the two Gallies were come with­in Cannon-shot, they were in an unusual and barbarous manner shot at by four piece of Cannon; so as instead of getting information, they were inforc'd to prepare for fight. Theocastro's Gallie received an unluckie shot with two bullets beneath the Poop, which giving large entrance unto [Page 147]the water, made them strike sail, and ship their Oars, to keep out the sea which frau­dulently stole in and was ready to swallow up the Gallie. This mean while Emerino's Gallie boarded the Enemie, and after a dangerous fight behav'd her self so gallant­ly, as with great slaughter of the Enemy, she got a bloudie victorie; there was one Gentleman in the Enemies ship, who fight­ing valliantly, had drawn much bloud from the Rhodians, and in a bold and barbarous manner, would never yeild; so as they were forced to load him with Irons, and by force to drag him out of the ship, whence together with him they took great store of treasure, and brought it and him into their Gallie, leaving the ship without any sails to the pleasure of the winds and water: the other rent Gallie being in some sort mend­ed, Theocastro came in to succour his com­panion; but met with no other occasion save only to rejoyce with him for his victo­rie: They shewed him their bootie, and a­mongst other prisoners, to his great won­der and astonishment, he found the Gentle­man loaded with Irons to be Melaspus, o­ver whom Fortune would have thought she should not have sufficiently insulted, had she not after so many miseries brought him [Page 148]into the hands of his Enemies. Theocastre was as glad of this desired Prey, as was Melaspus grieved and almost mad to see himself in his power: whilst Emerino under­standing who he was, thanked his destiny for having delivered up Nissena's chiefest enemy into his power, to whom he thought he could not present a more acceptable gift. They forthwith hoisted their sails, and gave such way with their Oars as shew'd their great desire to come suddenly to shore at Cyprus; they sailed so swiftly be­friended by a Westerly wind, and the Gal­lie slaves plying their Oars, as within the space of five hours, they began to disco­ver the tops of the promontaries which are in the west part of Cyprus: nay they did already discover the top of high Olympus, which being almost in the midst of the Island, seems to joyn the earth and stars together.

Nissena was already parted with the two Armies from the parts about Famagosta some days since, marching towards Nico­sia. The Commonwealths horse led the Van, those of the Crown followed them, and after these came she, backt by two Troops of choice Gentlemen, and carried in a chair, having all the Foot for her rear­ward: [Page 149] Agenor. and Filarbo never parted from her side, entertaining her sometimes with pleasant, somtimes with grave, and sometimes with sad discourse. Of which later sort their communing was when they spoke of Doralbo's danger, whose name though she were glad to hear of, yet was she troubled to think some misfortune might have befaln him.

They made not much hast in their march, for though Pioners went before them to make the wayes more easie for passage, they endeavoured to march so, as they might doe least prejudice to the Countrey: and the Queen was delighted to be with the Armies, who therfore did not march faster, or further then seated with her conveniency. At last they incamped themselves within 7 miles of Nicosia, and were preparing to make neerer approches with part of the Army, and if it should be thought sitting to storm the Citie walls, when the 2 Souldi­ers who were formerly sent to enquire after Doralbo, and to learn how affairs went in Nicosia, came and desired that they might be admitted into the Queens presence, who did not onely give them audience willingly, but when they were brought to her, did with some anxiety and impatience solicit [Page 150]them to say quickly what they had of good or bad to tell her. It was superfluous (said they) that your Majesty should come atten­ded with such Forces thither, where you are expected with such devotion by Prince Doral­bo, by the Nobility, and by all the people, who look for you, we would say as for a Goddess, did we not think we should offend your modesty, which will be contented that we shall say as a Queen by them reverenced and beloved. You are come with an intention of fighting, and your fight is turn'd to triumph. Here they acquainted her at large with all that had befaln Doralbo, who had been in extream danger of losing his life in revenging her beleeved death: but that being delivered by Theocastro, he had slain the Tyrant; and that afterwards hearing of Melaspus his being fled, he was come out of the Castle with the generall applause both of the No­bility and common people; and that he al­ready had in her name made himself abso­lute Master of the Citie, on which the se­cure dominion of all the rest of the King­dom did depend. That having heard of her coming by some strangers, he was already on his way to come and meet her, and to receive her after so many troubles, into the absolute possession of that Crown, which [Page 151]was due unto her by her so many deserts, and for so many other reasons.

Nissena was mightily pleased with this newes; but the hearing that her beloved Doralbo had run hazard of his life, onely in her revenge, caused so great a passion of heart in her, as though it were the effect of joy, had yet somewhat mixt with it of sor­rowfull and bitter; passions which she wise­ly concealed. Having rewarded the Soul­diers with a rich chain of Massie gold, they were dismist, and she immediatly (her im­petuous-love passion ceasing a little) gave Order that all the Commanders and chief men of the Citie should follow her, for she would goe towards Niccsia. The Sun ha­sted towards the West, to leave the World in darkness, and Doralbo accompanied with above an hundred Gentlemen, spur [...]d on his Horse towards that Sunne which brought unto him a rise of joy, and whose bright beams he hoped to enjoy in spight of the approaching night. Nissena when she heard a far off the noyse of Trumpets, which ad­vertis'd her of her Warriers approach, she felt her heart not onely beat, but flutter so within her breast, as she thought she had been neer death, and that those were the last beatings of her soul which would open [Page 152]the passage to get out of her body. When Doralbo heard from a-far off, the thunder of those Drums which preceded the lightning of that countenance with which his adored Nissena came to assault him; he much to his amazement fell a trembling, even then when he found himselfe more then ever in­flamed with unquenchable heat. At last these two souls in love, who had long since incountred each other in their affections, met one another now with their eyes: Nor did the noyse of a thousand musket shot, of a hundred Trumpets, and of as many o­ther War Instruments, mixt with the neigh­ing and trampling of horses, and common shouts of joy, hinder them from hearing one another say with their looks, and strive who should best express themselves therein; Well met dear eyes so long desired: I now do more then ever feel the fire of love. Thus they said in a language understood by none but themselves.

Doralbo leapt from horsback, and had not she hinder'd him, was ready to fall down prostrate before Nissena, to whom with a trembling voice he said: Your Ma­jestie is at last return'd to Nicosia to receive that Crown, which will be proud of the ho­nour of incircling your Temples: you are [Page 153]come to receive some shadow of that re­ward which is due to the Immensitie of your merit. I have not bin wanting for what­lies in my power, to sacrifice my life to the Deitie of your greatness: but the Gods have pleased to preserve me that upon some other occasion I may be readie to lose it: I shall do it at all times, O my Queen, for your service, for whose sake death would have been and shal ever be welcome to me. He would have proceeded, but was thus by her interrupted. Sir, I know how great my obligations are to you; the Crown of Cy­prus would be but a weak return of Grati­tude for what you have done for me. Let it suffice I am not ungratefull. Doralbo would have reply'd, but struck through with a pleasing smile and affable look from her, his answer was turnd into a sigh, which though it were cut short off, made the inamour'd Queen fully understand that she was the Shrine that he adored. She afterwards ap­ply'd her selfe to receive obsequious appli­cations from the other Gentlemen, who with reverence bowed unto her, to whom she answered with such a Majestical Grace, as all of them blamed Fortune, which had so long kept her from that sublime degree which her so many perefctions did deserve. [Page 154]All the Ladies of Nicofia came to her clo­thed in black, as a Livery which they wore to the memory of the deceased King, and to their Queens Widowhood, to whom humbly bowing themselves, they found in her an affable but not abject correspon­dency; such as shewed Majesty, but not pride: whence that reverentiall love began in them, with which Nissena was ever after respected and beloved by all her Subjects of whatsoever condition. Before they could get to Nicosia, darkness had canopied over the vvhole Orizon, so as the great abun­dance of lighted Torches and Bonsires did in an instant so inlighten the darkness of the night, as it had no reason to envie the brightest day; and yet all these flames and heats appear'd to Doralbo but obscure hor­rors in respect of those beams which darted from Nissena's eyes. She came unto the Pa­lace amidst the noyse of Warl [...]ck Instru­ments, & the shouts and acclamations of the rejoycing people; and calling to mind how she had not long before fled from thence abandoned by all, and how she now retur­ned reverenced and cried up, nay as it were, adored, she could not but admire the strauge fickleness of Fortune.

She would not forbear giving of audi­ence, [Page 155]and receiving congratulations from the numerous inundation of Ladies, Lords, Tituladoes, and personages of all conditi­on, til she was insufferably weary; but at last she was inforc'd to betake her self to her rest. She gave order that Eurania, Doralbo, Agenor of Soria and Filarbo should sup in privat with her: the chief Commanders of the Army having their Lodgings appointed out to them in the Court, and being treated with such sump­tuositie as belonged unto them. The Ar­mies were entertained in the field with such abundance of rich Wines, of vvhich Cy­prus is very plentiful, & with such varietie of Viands, as the Soldiers spent the whole night almost in their cups and eating. The Queen vvas readie to sit dovvn vvith the o­thers at the Table vvhen she vvas inform'd that tvvo Gentlemen of Rhodes desired au­dience: bring them in, said she, I shal soon dispatch them Theocastro and Emerino en­tred together with the miserable Melaspus loaded with Irons, who prostrating them­selves before her, presented Melaspus to her as a slave. All were amazed at this so un­expected a sight; but Doralbo, I know not whether out of disdain or pittie, a colour coming into his face, broke forth into [Page 156]these words: The Heavens at last leave no guilty persons unpunished. Who would ever have imagined most gratious Queen, that this fellow should at this time be brought hither in this condition, perfectly to compleat your Majesties happiness and safety? These, said she, are miracles which divine Justice knows only how to bring a­bout: Let him be led unto the Castle, and let him be well treated there, I bequeath him to you Prince Doralbo; appointing you to be his Judge; but upon this condition, that you absolve him of being partaker of his fathers wickedness. Go and be of good comfort Melaspus, said Doralbo, you have already begun to taste of the Queens cle­mencie. Theocastre and Emerino, having recounted their adventures, sate down like­wise at the Table with Nissena, who had leasure enough at a long and gladsome sup­per, to let Doralbo know by her most mo­dest favours, that she lov'd him better then her self.

Four whole days were past over by these two Lovers, neither of them daring to discover their affections, unless by their looks, and by letting some little words e­scape which equivocally noted their inward heat of heart; in which Nissena busied [Page 157]her self onely in dispensing her rewards and favours, and in winning not only the love, but the Idolatry of her Subjects. Nissena thought it unbefitting her to speak her love to Doralbo, and though she knew she was in regard of her prioritie bound to begin first in the declaration thereof, and was some­times resolved to do so, her innate modestie would not suffer her so to do, or else her ve­ry affection hindred her: it being impossi­ble for one who truely loves, to say he loves. Doralbo who did not believe he merited Nissena's service, much less her love, would rather have chosen to die, then to make his affection known unto her by discovery of his flames: Who am I, (said he within himself) or what am I, that I should pretend love unto so beautifull a Queen? 'Tis true, I am born a Prince: I have served her to the evident neglect of my life, and I love her more dearly then mine own soul. But what's all this? She merits greater things: Should I discover my love, and she not correspond with me therein, what would become of me? is it not safer to say nothing, to serve, observe, and nourish stil my hopes, then to receive my death from her scorn, or from her flat denial? if she be pleased to Crown our [Page 158]love with reward, she will not want ways and means how to do it. Thus did both she and he in vain lament; which crafty Eurania perceiving, and compassionating their too abstenious ravings, she invited them one day after dinner into a Closset to see certain Pictures, wherein were drawn to the life the affections between Venus and Adonis, and hence she took an occasion free­ly to say unto them; this is the way of love my Children; I know Nissena and Doral­bo, that you burn in love each with other in unquenchable fires, and strive who should love one another best; why do you then thus id'ly consume your selves away, cold in the midst of flames? Say Nissena, I take thee Doralbo for my husband. Say you Doralbo, I take thee Nissena for my wife: so so, imbrace each other; Matrimo­nial love is no shame to the world, nor fault committed against heaven. The two Lo­vers, with a blushing countenance and ill assured look, confirm'd her sayings, and grew so bold, as at one and the same in­stant they ran so greedily to interchange a kiss, as their souls had almost flown through excess of joy from out their ina­mour'd breasts.

Here ended the sorrws, and began the joys of Nissena and Doralbo, who reigned prosperously, and loved each other faith­fully all their life.