THE Arabian Empire has been one of the most flourishing of the World, both by the Duration and the Large Extent of it. Its Principal Seat was in Africa, though it has likewise possessed Large Territories in the other parts of the World. [Page 2]It was not without divers conside­rable changes, that it Flourished so long, and which have caused its decay; amongst which, there happened an alteration about 150 years since, which for some time did raise their Reputation.

The Family of the Benimerignis having enjoy'd the Throne for a long time, and possessed the Empire with Splendor and Dignity, did thereby restore unto it that Lustre in which it had formerly been under the Almanzors: But having at last torn one another in pieces through Partialities, they were driven from thence, in the beginning of the late Age, by the Cherifs; which name is assumed by all those that pretend to be of Kin unto Maho­met, and is of great use to those that bear it, to attract the venera­tion of that People who are the most superstitious of the World.

The Cherifs having rendred themselves formidable by that Mor­tal [Page 3]War which they made against the Portugais, and having almost driven them out of Africa, they gained so much the Love of these Nations, that they easily did de­stroy the Benimerignis, which were then the Masters of Mauritania, and they possessed themselves also of divers other Parts of Africa.

Mahomet Cherif did reunite all their former Authority in his own Person, and did enjoy, even unto an extream old Age, one of the greatest Empires of the World. His Successors had easily preserved it, if they had not had more than Foreign Enemies to Combate: But being at variance amongst them­selves, that vast Empire was in our time divided into several Par­cels. Fess, which had been the chief City of the whole Empire, had its particular Kings, which were not acknowledged by the rest of Africa: Morocco had its Sove­reigns; the Kingdoms of Tremeson, [Page 4]of Suss, and of Tarudant, had theirs also, and acknowledged none other: And in a Word, divers Pet­ty Princes did possess all those vast Territories, which in former times yielded obedience but unto one only.

Bembuca King of Fess, and Gayland Prince of Suss, had rendred them­selves formidable to all the others, through that Bloody War which they made against their Neigh­bours, or through the Jars which they had betwixt themselves, which they always decided by Arms, and the advantage of which did fre­quently remain on Bembuca's side. Though Bembuca was extream Cru­el towards his Enemies, there ne­ver was a more kind Father. The Prince of Fess, and the Prin­cess Alzira, his Children, were so dear unto him, that he would con­tinually have them in his presence, and it was with great difficulty that he would bear their absence [Page 5]some hours of the day in order to their Education: He would never grant any requests but at the pray­ers of one or the other of them; and most particularly at the recom­dations of Alzira, who always employ'd her self in the behalf of the unfortunate. She had a deli­cate and an advantageous Shape. Her Eyes were blew and full, her Air was Majestick, mixed with store of Sweetness, and with such insinuating Actions, that it was impossible to behold her without some concern for her Person. Her Beauty, which made a great noise throughout all Africa, had already ingaged divers Princes to demand her of her Father, who not be­ing able to resolve on the absence of a Daughter so lovely as his, did always avoid the Marrying of her, under the pretence, that he belie­ved her yet too Young. Gayland would once have Wedded her himself, but there was so little pro­portion [Page 6]betwixt the Ages of Alzi­ra and of that Prince, who had been Marryed twice before, that Bembuca had rejected the Propo­sals with anger; which contempt had contributed very much in the renewing of the War between those two Princes.

Gayland, who was Childless, had a Young Prince of the House of the Cherifs, a Kinsman of his, brought up at his Court, who had an equal right on the King­dom of Fess, and on the Principali­ty of Suss. At first he had not taken care of his Education, but to have one day a pretence to drive Bembuca out of the Kingdom of Fess, if at any time he should get an advantage over him by force of Arms. But Ali Hamet (that was the name of the Young Cherif) had something so admirable in his Person, and had rendred himself so complaisant to all Gayland's desires, that he had in­tirely won his favour. Never [Page 7]had any Prince a more piercing Wit, a Mind more bent unto great Enterprises, and who did more passionatly love Arms. Gay­land, who did sometimes send him into the Field, was surprised to to hear him discourse on all the particulars thereof, with the same exactness as an experimented Com­mander would do. He had been brought up in so great an aver­sion against Bembuca, that he was continually discoursing of the means which he should use to drive away that Usurper. And being very de­sirous of knowledge, he would take great delight in entertaining of Strangers. A certain English Captive, named Talbor, had so well taken his measures on his Princes Curiosity, that he was preferr'd by him in his conversation before all others. Talbor would never speak to him but of Armies, of Mor­tar-pieces, Grenados, Canons, and generally of all those things that [Page 8]the Princes of Europe use in War. He would inform him, that for the eafie taking of a place, it was requisite to know both the Strength and Weakness of it, to attaque it at those places which were the eafiest to overcome. Ali Hamet did take a fingular delight in hearing the Slaves reason­ings, and in reducing all that he said unto those designs, and to that hatred which he had against Bembuca; he fancied that if he could see the Fortifications of the City of Fess, which was Capital of the Kingdom of that name, he should have the less difficulties in rendring himself Master of it, whenever he should besiege it, as he hoped he should one day. He ex­pressed to Talbor the extream desire which he had to go in a disguise to Fess, with him, and observe that City. Talbor would have diswaded him, telling him, that without exposing of himself unto the success of an [Page 9]Enterprise so dangerous as that, it would not be hard to get a Draught of that Place, and to ob­serve all its defects. But Ali Hamet, who did not comprehend how that could be done on paper, gave the Slave to understand, that the bu­siness was of such a concern as would invite him to see the rea­lity of it with his own Eyes, though there were never so much danger in the enterprise. Talbor durst not contradict him any lon­ger. The next day Ali Hamet absented himself from his Uncle, under other pretences, and having disguised himself in a mean habit, he set forwards towards Fess, fol­lowed by Talbor, and a Marabout, (those are Mahometan Monks, un­der whose safeguard one may tra­vel with great safety.) After a long march they arrived at Fess, where Ali Hamet did apply himself with a World of diligence to observe the Situation of that City, and those [Page 10]Posts that were fortified. He was walking on the Rampart, when there passed by him a certain kind of Chariot, drawn by Arabian Horses. The Prince having observed some Ladies in it magnificently dressed, had the curiosity to see their Faces, but it was impossible for him to have that satisfaction, by reason of the distance, and that the Ladies had their Backs turn'd towards him; he contented himself with following them at a distance. Scarce had he made Twenty steps for­wards, when he heard a great noise of confused voices, which obliged him to double his pace towards the Chariot. Lions are very com­mon at Fess, and divers persons keep of them: One of the biggest size had broke loose from his Ma­sters House, and was walking qui­etly on the Rampart, as the Cha­riot was going by; the Horses were affrighted at it, and set them­selves a running, notwithstanding [Page 11]all that the Coachman could do to stop them. The Lyon percei­ving them to run, failed not to follow. A company of People, who knew the nature of Lyons, who equally become furious, when they are pursued, or that they see any thing to flie before them, did cry out at a distance, to have the driver stop his Horses. Mean time the Chariot was overturned, and the Lyon was already ex­ercising his fury on the Horses, not one person daring to ap­proach near him; when that Ali Hamet came up, who seeing fear and dispair spread over the Ladies Faces, did presently go a­bout to assist them all; and having perceived that there was one which was easily to be distinguish­ed from the rest by her beauty and the magnificency of her dress, he busied himself chiefly in setting her our of danger. But the Cha­riot was overturned in such a man­ner, [Page 12]that it was impossble to assist her, without exposing her to the fury of the Lyon. Ali Hamet in that extreamity consulted nothing but his Courage; and having drawn his Cimiter, he attaqued the Lyon with great Valour, and with a blow of his Cimiter he wounded him very dangerously on the Head. The Lyon roaring with rage, was going to tear in pieces the Person that had wounded him: But Ali Hamet not being daunted, did courageously resist him, and wounded him in so many different places, that he put him out of Combate.

After this happy success, he drew near unto that Lady who had ap­peared so beautiful to him, and lent her his Hand to help her out of that place. The Lady, who was already struck with astonishment at the surprising Valour of her Deli­verer, had then leasure to admire his good meen, and to return him [Page 13]thanks in terms that were full of acknowledgments. Ali Hamet, who had never seen so beautiful a Person, did at that instant feel some ceratin motions, of which he had been ignorant all his life time. A great number of Persons of all sorts and conditions that came thi­ther, gave Ali Hamet to understand, that she who he had so happily res­cued was the Princess of Fess, which obliged him to behold her again with the more attention: But he enjoyed not long that pleasure, for Alzira was in an instant encom­passed round with Ladies, who con­ducted her back to the Palace to consolate Bembuca, who had new­ly been advertised of that misfor­tune. Ali Hamet was in so great an admiration at the surprising Beauty of the Princess, that he mixed himself with the Crowd of those that follow'd, scarce knowing what he was doing. Talbor, who had not had his Eyes off of him, fore-seeing [Page 14]that Bembuca would cause a search to be made after that Per­son that had rendred so great a Service to his Daughter, did ad­vise him to retire in haste, lest he should be known. The Prince was unwilling, as having no mind to distance himself from the charming Alzira, who he hoped to see again. But Talbor did so well represent to him those Evils which he was to fear if Bembuca should come to know him, that his Love, which was but just budding, had not power sufficient to hinder him from following the Counsels of his faithful Slave. They went to rejoin the Marabout, who was staying for them at the City Gates, and got away from Fess with great diligence. Mean time Al­zira, who had her Idea fill'd with her generous Protector, and who did already feel in her self some­thing more than a bare acknow­ledgment, did conjure her Father [Page 15]to send for him, and give him a recompence suitable to that service which he had so lately rendred her. Bembuca, who desired to know so Valiant a Person, gave orders for a search. His cares were fruit­less, no body knew him, and though that all those who had seen the Combate, did speak of him with admiration, there was not one found that knew who he was. New perquisitions were a­gain made, but still with the same success. Mean time there being daily some new circumstance of his Valour mentioned, that business did much contribute to attract the Veneration of the People on Bem­buca, and his Family; for he had the subtilty to publish, that their Prophet Mahomet, perceiving a Princess of the Blood of the Che­rifs, and his Relation, in so eminent a danger, he had come in Person himself to deliver her, and had dis­appeared presently after so brave an [Page 16]Action. The People of that Coun­try are very superstitious; that made them give credit to the Story, the noise of which was presently spread far and near, throughout all the Kingdom of Fess, and all the World did speak of it, as of a miracle. What Glory soever it was for the Princess to have been assisted by the pretend­ed Prophet, her Heart had some repugnancy to believe the pub­lick opinion; and every time that she did reflect on the good meen of her Deliverer, she did wish, at least, that there were some Mortal that did resemble him; while that her Modesty did oblige her to con­ceal her resentments. But when she was in private with Balabai (who was one of her Women that she much affected) Balabai made no difficulty to own, that she had rather have ow'd her life unto some African Prince, than to the Great Mahomet. But Alzira, [Page 17]who had her Mind continually fill'd with an Idea of the Strangers good meen, did not agree to that, and did so often represent his Picture after so advantageous a manner, that Balabai was obliged to acquiess, that all the Princes of Africa did not come near in good meen unto him that had preserved her life.

Ali Hamet, who was return'd to Suss, did lead so private a life, that all the World were surpri­sed at so sudden a change. Al­zira's Beauty, those Words which she had said to him, and a Charming and Majestick Air which he had never seen in any other Person, did continually come into his Mind. He delighted to be alone, that he might freely spend his thoughts on his ami­able Princess, and he continually did prefer the Slave Talbor's con­versation unto that of the great­est Lords of Suss. What a fatal [Page 18]Journey have we had, said he to him? while I did design to have drawn from thence great advanta­ges against Bembuca, I have lost my self. I love the Princess, I confess it to thee; but what will now be­come of me? Bembuca, who possesses a Throne that is mine, has doubt­less confirm'd her in sentiments of hatred and aversion against me; so that I must never hope to make her sensible of my Love, seeing that I cannot so much as see her to in­form her of it; she will never hear any thing concerning me, but ei­ther to my Glory or to my Shame; the one and the other are dange­rous to me, and will equally draw her anger on me; for if I have any advantage over Bembuca, she will doubtless hate the Enemy of her Father; and if I am vanquished, she will have a contempt for a mi­serable Prince. Talbor did endea­vour to comfort him, in represent­ing, that a Peace might be con­cluded [Page 19]in some short time between the King of Fess and the Prince of Suss; and that he being of the Blood of the Cherifs, it might not be impossible but that he should one day Espouse the Princess of Fess. But Ali Hamet did think his reasons too weak, and too far fetch'd; he was for more practicable means where­with to serve his Love. And where­as he looked upon Talbor more as a Friend than a Slave, he did put him in mind, that seeing that he had been ingaged in the underta­king of this Voyage, which he durst not call fatal, though he had lost his liberty in it, he ought also to give him some expedients where­by to inform the Princess of his passion. Talbor, who did find him to be deeply in Love, and who knew by experience what strange distur­bances Love does cause, did offer to go to Fess, to introduce him­self into Bembuca's favour, under pretence of teaching him the use [Page 20]of Fire Balls and Canons, and by those means endeavour if it were possible, to inform the Princess of those sentiments which he had for her. Ali Hamet was so satisfied with that proposition, that he de­ferr'd no longer the affranchising of Talbor, thereby to engage him the more to serve him, with the grea­ter affection, towards Alzira. Af­ter that he had caused those Passes to be dispatched which were neces­sary for the security of his Journey, he conjur'd him with Embraces not to spare either Care or Charges in giving him news of his Princess with all diligence imaginable.

Talbor being arrived at Fess, did endeavour to introduce himself at Court, giving out, that he had left the Service of a great Prince of Europe to apply himself unto Bembuca's Service, whose Merit and Valour had been made known to him by an English Officer of Tan­gire, who had Sojourn'd for some [Page 21]time at Fess. Such a probable dis­course did presently flatter Bem­buca's Vanity: But those experi­ments which Talbor made in his presence with Gun-powder, whose different and various effects were unknown to the Moors, did abso­lutely incline him to take him in­to his Service. The King desired also that he should make some Fire­works to divert the Princess, who was become very Melancholy of late. Those happy beginnings did make him hope that he should shortly be in a condition to render some Services of importance unto Ali Hamet. Most part of Courti­ers love Novelties; divers young Persons of the Court did express their great desires to be acquainted with this Stranger. Talbor an­swer'd their Wills with respect, and having observed that the rest of the Gentry had some deference for a young Cavalier named Maucaden, he had the Curiosity to learn on [Page 22]what account; he was inform'd, that his own merits did much con­tribute towards the receiving those respects, and that he was also con­sider'd as being the Brother to Ba­labai, the Princess Alzira's Favo­rite. That last reason did oblige Talbor to shew him a great respect. Maucaden did give him in sundry occasions some particular marks of his esteem, and also promis'd to mention him to his Sister. Which he performed so well, that his good Offices had like to have prov'd fa­tal to him: for Balabai, to oblige her Brother, did so highly extol Talbor's good qualities to the Prin­cess, that she desired to have him in her Service. Alzira spoke of it to the King, who granted her that favour, and gave order that Talbor should be made an Eunuque, that he might be in a condition to serve the Princess, because that the Eunuques only have that privi­ledge. All those mean sorts of [Page 23]persons that envy those sorts of Emploies which put them in a con­dition of having great Preferments, and of raising their Friends and Relations, do patiently suffer them­selves to be made Eunuques, in or­der to those great advantages that they hope from thence. Mauca­den having learned of his Sister the resolution which the King had taken of making Talbor so, to dispose of him afterwards to the Princess, was willing to be the first that should inform him of his good For­tune, and immediately went to joy him of it. Talbor extreamly surprised with a compliment of that nature, and so little expected, did intreat Maucaden to divert that evil from him, confessing that he had rather serve as a Slave in a Gally, than to be a Favorite in the Palace, seeing that there was no getting in by any other means than under those cruel conditions which he had mentioned to him. [Page 24] Maucaden surprz'd to hear him talk so, did tax him of Barbari­ousness, and told him, that though he himself was not sensible of that good which was offer'd him, he would make him happy even against his Will. But Talbor af­frighted at his pretended good Fortune, did so earnestly intreat him to alter that resolution, that Maucaden left him after he had told him, that seeing he had not sufficiency of Ambition or of Cou­rage to bear so great a Fortune, he would tell his Sister that he had been deceived in that good opinion that he had had of him.

While that Talbor was fearing those fatal effects of his pretended good Fortune, the Prince Ali Hamet impatient in his Love, had taken the Field at the head of a great Body of Horse, much less to gain a Conquest, than to take some Priso­ners, that might tell him some [Page 25]news of Alzira: His march did alarm Bembuca, who sent divers Troops to oppose him. Mauca­den, who had the command of them, did ask permission to lead Talbor along with him, and by that means he saved him from that resolution which had been taken of making him an Eunuque. He marched long Journeys, and in a short time found himself near unto the Enemy. Ali Hamet, who was wholy taken up with his Love, and the design of taking some few Pri­soners, permitted his Troops to re­fresh themselves in a very com­modious Camp, and did march one whole Night at the head of some few Men, to observe the E­nemy, or peradventure, to more commodiously make some Priso­ners. But the Day Light having surprised him, he perceived that he had advanced too far, and found himself compassed about with di­vers Squadrons of Enemies, without [Page 26]any possibility of retreat. That great number with which he was surrounded, did not hinder him from defending himself with an un­imaginable Valour; yet he was taken, or rather over-powered than vanquished. His Troops having been informed of his misfortune, they suddenly Disbanded them­selves, and Maucaden returned to Fess, to conduct thither in Person his Illustrious Prisoner. Talbor did avoid appearing before him, for fear of losing himself, if it were perceived that he had formerly had some Commerce with Ali Hamet. Bembuca, who had always feared least that Ali Hamet should one Day drive him from the Throne, did learn with all the joy imagina­ble, that he was made Prisoner. All his Grandees did Compliment him on that good success, Alzira only appeared indifferent in the midst of such an universal joy; she was not sensible of any thing, since [Page 27]the adventure of the Lyon, the Idea of her Deliverer had continu­ally remain'd in her mind; and though she had been perswaded that it was Mahomet who had rendred her that Signal piece of Service, she still pleas'd her self, in thinking that she would have Lov'd most passionatly some Prince that had been like her Deliverer. These chimerical fancies did conti­nually possess her mind, and Balabai had all the pains imaginable to draw her out of them. Though Bembu­ca had a mortal hatred against Ali Hamet, he seemingly treated him well, to let the People know, that he honour'd the Blood of the Cherifs, even in the person of his Enemy. He Lodged him in his own Palace, and order'd that all the honours which were used to­wards the Prince his Son, should be rendred unto him also, and likewise desired that Ali Hamet should go make his Reverence to [Page 28]the Queen and Princess. Mean time, Alzira was so oppressed with her continual restlesness of mind, that she intreated her Fa­ther to dispence her from being at the Queens Appartment, when Ali Hamet should go to Visit her. But the whole Court ringing of his good meen with admiration, Balabai had the Curiosity to go to see him. Ali Hamet, who had hoped to see Alzira in the Queens presence, and who thought him­self already but too well recom­penced for the loss of his Liberty, did in vain seek her with his Eyes, and stay'd them on no Person, not finding out his most Charming Princess. He was ready to ask where she was, but he durst not give himself that satisfaction, for fear of being wanting in respect towards the Queen, or it may be least that the particular interest that he should express for the Princess might be perceived. [Page 29]Those great respects which were rendred to Balabai, did set him in a doubt whether she were not the Princess of Fess; though he was well assur'd that it was not the same Person that had made him in Love. He retired himself from the Queens Appartment, in a much more restless mind than he had come thither. Sometimes he imagin'd that there was no other Princess of Fess than Balibai; and a moment after he would repre­sent to himself all those Features of that lovely Person whom he had deliver'd from the fury of the Lyon, and did very well remember that all the People had treated her as a Princess. Finally, after divers re­flections, he believed that he had confounded that amiable Person with the Princess, and that doubt­less it was some Woman of hers, whose extream Beauty had made him mistake her for the Princess. But who ever it were, he did feel so [Page 30]strong a passion for that person, that without troubling himself whether she were a Princess or a Slave, he did Love her with an equal ardor, and did continually think of the means to see her a­gain

Mean time Balabai, who had looked on Ali Hamet with great attention, had been so charmed with his good meen, that even from that very first sight it was impossi­ble for her to resist a certain ten­dency, that did engage her to love him almost against her Will. When she came to Alzira, she entertaind her with nothing but what did concern Ali Hamet; and as she never did conceal any thing from the Princess, she confess'd to her with blushes, that she lov'd that Prince; and added, that she strongly fancied, that the good meen of her Deliverer, which she so much praised, did come very near to that of Ali Hamet. Alzira, [Page 31]without making any reflection, did at the first chide her, for lo­ving her Fathers Enemy. But after­wards believing that Balabai's Love would give her an occasion of re­taliating all those Jests and Dro­leries which her favorite had made on the account of her melancholy, she was not sorry that she should love Ali Hamet.

Love was the Subject of all their Conversations. Alzira had a most sensible pleasure in frequent­ly speaking of him who had sav'd her life, and Balabai, whom love had rendred more diligent than ordinarily, did no longer reproach the Princess of that passion which she had for a Chimera; and Alzira did in her turn make her confess, that there was much more weak­ness in loving a Man by meer fancy, than in loving one unto whom great obligations are due. Balabai, not opposing her self directly unto the Princess's sentiments, did [Page 32]however insinuate unto her, that a passion in which a heart does ingage it self of its proper motion, is much stronger and more certain, than that in which an acknowledg­ment had some share, seeing that the one was an effect of inclina­tion, while that the other lay at the mercy of divers Accidents. The Princess did not wholly agree on that, and did maintain, that there never could be any love pro­duc'd by bare acknowledgments; that inclinations, had always a great share in Love, but that persons were willing to deceive themselves, that the heart might have the least shame in owning its own weak­ness, under pretence that some ac­knowledgedment did force him to Love.

Mean time, Talbor had found out a means privately to see Ali Hamet, and to let him know how much he was concern'd that he had not been capable of rendring [Page 33]him some Service towards the Princess, who did never see any but Women or Eunuques. The Prince was not surprised at it, see­ing that he himself, though lying in the Palace some days since, had never had any opportunity of seeing that Charming person, who had given him so much Love, for he no longer did believe that it was the Princess. He did every day walk in a certain Gallery of the Palace, much less to observe the Curious pieces of panting with which it was adorn'd, than to think without restraint, on his misfor­tunes. Balabai having taken no­tice of it, passed through that Gal­lery, making as if it were her way to go into the Queens Appartment. She was very desirous to speak to Ali Hamet, and to ask him his Judgment on those Pictures: But by ill fortune, he understood her not, and he spoke to her again in a Language that she was ignorant [Page 34]of. Those of Fess speak a Lan­guage which is particular to them­selves, but those of Tarudant and of Suss speak a corrupt Arabick. The Courtiers speak Portugais, and for the most part the African Prin­ces take a particular care to have their Children learn that Lan­guage. Balabai, who had proposed to her self this occasion, of being informed whether one day Ali Ha­met should become sensible to her Love, was in an extream anguish to find they understood not one another. Yet as all Lovers are apt to flatter themselves, she did ex­pound to her advantage all the Princes Civilities, who remain'd in a comfortless condition for ha­ving lost so fair an opportunity of of clearing his doubt, if that that Person who would have spoken to him, were the Princess, and of learning whether that Person whom he had deliver'd from the Lyons fury were still in the Palace. Bala­bai [Page 35]remembring that the Princess had learned Portugais from a Slave of that Nation, gave her an ac­count of her late adventure, and did intreat her to serve her as an Interpreter, on this account. Alzi­ra did at first excuse her self from it, expressing an aversion of con­versing with her Fathers Enemy. But her Favorite did so well re­present to her how that she could not confide the secret of her Love unto any other person than to her self, that the Princess being moved with her reasons, and soft­ned with her tears, did consent to give her that mark of complaisan­cy. But it was on condition that she should not pull up her Vail, and of passing for one of Balabai's Servants. Ali Hamet being re­turn'd into the Gallery to contem­plate, as he used to do, Balabai did presently repair thither also; ac­companied by Alzira, who having cast her Eyes upon the Prince [Page 36]through her Vail, which was of a very thin Stuff, did presently know him for her Deliverer, with whom her imagination was continually prepossessed. Such an unexpected rencounter, did give her so much joy, such an emotion of Spirits, and so many other different moti­ons on the sudden, that she swooned away. Balabai affrighted with seeing her in that condition, did carry her to her Chamber, with the assistance of another Woman. So soon as the Princess was reco­vered out of her Swoon, she cast her Eyes on all sides, perhaps thinking still to see that dear Ob­ject which had caused so sudden a change in her: But she perceiving no body but Balabai, who was weeping on her Beds side, Al­zira, recalling to mind that passi­on which her favorite had for Ali Hamet, and thinking withal, that the Prince was the same Person who had saved her life, or at least [Page 37]was so much like him, as to awa­ken in her Heart all the sentiments of Love and acknowledgments she had had for that Generous un­known Person, did no longer look on Balabai but as her Rival, from whom it was requisite that she should conceal her secret for the future; and to that purpose she did perswade her, that her Swoon­ing was an effect of the aversion which she had for that Prince, and of the disturbance which she had been in at the sight of her Fathers Enemy. Balabai, who trusted to her Words, durst no longer pro­pose unto her the Office of Inter­preter. But Alzira, who had an extream impatiency of seeing the Prince again, did feign to be con­cerned at her Favorit's misfortune, and did promise to overcome for her sake all the Antipathy which she had against Ali Hamet, and e­ven to speak kindly to him. Ba­lakai pierc'd throughly with the [Page 38]Princesses bounty, did make use of that good disposition she was in, and having learn'd that the Prince had continued in the Gallery, she went thither again with Alzira, who did no longer mind the hid­ing of her Face, as she had done the first time. Ali Hamet trou­bled at the loss of so many op­portunities of learning some news of that Person which had given him so much Love, did begin to fear of never more seeing that charming Object, when that he perceived Balabai drawing near unto him, accompanied with Alzi­ra, who comming up, did speak Portugues to him. Ali Hamet was so pleasingly surpriz'd at the second sight of this Beautiful Person, that he remain'd immovable, all his Senses being so imploy'd on her, that her forgot to give her an an­swer. Balabai seeing him thus surpriz'd, did fear that he under­stood not the Portugues Language. [Page 39]But Alzira having inquired of him if he had never been at Fess be­fore that Maucaden had made him Prisoner; It was no difficult thing for Maucaden to make me a Pri­soner, replied the Prince, seeing that another Person had already deprived me of my Liberty, and that I sought after nothing more than the returning into my Chaines. That Answer caus­ed some disorder in Alzira, fear­ing least he should mean that to Balabai: Mean time, the more she examined him, the more did she confirm her self in her passion, finding in him all the same fea­tures of that Person who had made her in Love: But she could not comprehend by what adven­ture that Prince had happened to be at Fess so opportunely to save her life. She was going to in­quire that of him, had not Balabai interrupted their conversation, to learn from Alzira what 'twas he [Page 40]said. She gave her to understand, that the Prince had a most ten­der Heart, and that he was dis­coursing concerning the loss of his Liberty, when she interrupted them. Balabai ravished with that answer, did conjure her to conti­nue the conversation. Then did the Princess intreat Ali Hamet to inform her how he had come to lose his Liberty, and who was that Person that had depriv'd him of it. The Prince, after a sigh, told her, that the desire of acquiring some reputation, by rendring him­self Master of the City of Fess, ingag'd him to examine the Place in a disguise; but that the fates had designed it otherwise. His Modesty had hindred him from faying more, had not the Princess pressed him to continue. What can I say, that you know not bet­ter than I do my self? continued Ali Hamet. A roaring Lyon, that I had the good Fortune to over­come, [Page 41]gave me the opportunity of saving you, and of losing my self: For from that very moment that I did see you, I lov'd you with the most real and the strong­est passion that ever was. Though this discourse was very confor­mable unto Alzira's sentiments, she could not forbear blushing, and being discompos'd at it. Palabai, who perceived the disorder she was in, had the curosity to learn the cause. The Princess told her, that Ali Hamet had caused some distur­bance in her at the recital which he made her of a Combate which he had had on her Fathers Terri­tories. With your favour, inform me, continued the Prince, who it is that I love in you; the know­ledge of your condition can nei­ther increase nor diminish my Love, and I even feel an in­ward joy, at the thoughts that you are not Bembuca's Daughter. Then you would not have lov'd the [Page 42]Princess of Fess? replied Alzira hastily. Alas! replied the Prince, Love gave me not time to delibe­rate, when I beheld you; and I had so little power over my passion, that I believe I had lov'd you, though you had been a Christian Slave. The Princess ravish'd that she was belov'd for her meer Beau­ty's sake, and without any assist­ance from her birth in this con­quest, was preparing to answer him something very obliging, when an Eunuque came, and told her that the Queen had asked for her. The Prince remain'd very well fa­tisfied with this conversation, per­ceiving well by his Mistrisles dis­courses, that his passion was not displeasing to her. Mean time Gayland had sent to Fess a confi­derable Person to treat with Bem­buca, in order to Ali Hamet's Li­berty. Bembuca, who had other designes, did continually propose great difficuties to the conclusion [Page 43]of that Treaty; yet he expressed a very great esteem for Ali Hamet. And whether it was to delude the Vulgar, by his seeming pretences, or that he design'd to amuse the Prince, that he might have no di­strust of his Artifices, he had him invited to all the diverisements of the Court; and did endeavour by all sorts of means to render his de­tainment less wearisome. Ali Ha­met had passed two Days with­out seeing of his Mistriss, and was fruitlesly busying of himself in find­ing out an opportunity to speak with her, when that he was in­treated by the Prince of Fess, to see the Combate of a furious Lyon against a most Savage Bear. Those kind of Spectacles being of very great request amongst the Africans, the Kings of Fess do often use such kindes of divertisments. Ali Hamet hoping that there he might behold that Charming Person who had made him in Love, did great­ly [Page 44]rejoyce at his going thither. So soon as he was entred the place which was designed him, he looked on all sides, and particularly in that place where the Queens Maids of Honour were seated, in hopes to find Alzira amongst them, and did begin to be in some disorder at his not seeing of her, when at last he espied her fitting next to the Queen, which very near that place in which he himself was. Al­zira, placed thus amongst the Royal Family, did extreamly sur­prise the Prince; and though the Splendor of her Beauty did tar­nish the Lustre of her Jewels, yet the magnificent Apparel in which she was dressed, did afford him new Charms. He doubted then no longer, but that she was the Prin­cess of Fess; but he already Lov'd her with so much passion, that this new knowledge caused no con­siderable alteration in his mind. The Beasts did fight with an ex­traordinary [Page 45]fierceness. And while that the Spectators were giving their approbations on this Com­bate, Ali Hamet had continually his Eyes fixed on the Princess, who did not take off hers from behold­ing him, but to look down in mo­desty, and so soon as she raised them up again, they would meet with the Princes, which did speak in their Language a thousand ten­der and passionate things to her; all which she easily Interpreted, through the great Sympathy which was already between them. The Combate, which had lasted a con­siderable time, was at an end through the death of those fierce Animals. The two Lovers were obliged to separate themselves soon­ner than they would have wish­ed. Love, who was the only Sub­ject of all their thoughts, did con­tinually set them on contriving some means of seeing and enter­taining one another again, with [Page 46]their Amorous passions. Ali Hamet, did constantly walk in such places of the Palace as he judg'd that the Princess might pass by, where he would build a thousaind different projects; sometimes he was for going into the Princesses Appart­ment; a moment after, he would propose to himself the gaining of some Eunuque to his Service with some Liberalities, who might de­liver his Letters to Alzira. But so soon as he was going about the executing of either of his projects, he would fall again into his first irresolutions, and finally would re­solve to Love her for ever, with­out undertaking any thing that should displease her. Alzira, mean time, who did continually enter­tain her self with Balabai on the merit and good meen of Ali Ha­met, observ'd in their conversations that her Rivals passion did increase as oft as she beheld her Lover, which made her once resolve to [Page 47]bring as many obstacles as she could to their enterview. But by reason that Balabai was never absent from her, and that she her self had an extream impatiency to see Ali Hamet, she changed her mind, and chose rather to see her Lover in the presence of her Ri­val, than to deprive her self any longer of that pleasure. And ta­king advantage of Balabai's Idle passion, she advised her not to ne­glect those favourable dispositions in which the Prince was for her sake; giving her to understand, the better to deceive her, that she should no longer be sorry to see her espouse the Prince, seeing that it might contribute towards the peace betwixt Bembuca and Gay­land. Balabai being perswaded through the Princess's Bounty, did confide her secrets unto one of those Eunuques that served her, and having engag'd him by pre­sents and promises faithfully to [Page 48]serve her, she did propose to the Princess to write to Ali Hamet, to give him notice that he should re­pair at night unto the Eunuques Chamber, where they might enter­tain him at leisure. Alzira over­joy'd that her Rival had thought on this expedient, did write to him a short Note in Portugues, to give him notice that he should not in the least scruple to follow that Eunuque, who would conduct him to a place where he should find some Persons that were very de­sirous to learn whether his con­versation was as agreeable as his meen was advantageous. After that every body was retired, the Eunuque did carefully carry that little Note to the Prince, who re­ceived it with all the joy imagi­nable, and deferr'd no longer to follow the Eunuque, than what served to read the Note. You may easily imagin with what excess of joy Ali Hamet was transported [Page 49]at his entring into the Eunuques Chamber, where the Princess and Balabai did expect him. They were so ashamed at such an Acti­on, that they scarce would lift up their Eyes to look on him. Al­zira would have hid her bashful­ness under pretence that this Acti­on was under her Rivals name, and she thought that at the most she could but tax her self for ha­ving too much of complaisance for her Friend. And Balabai, be­ing authoriz'd by the Princess's presence, did cast on her again all those secret reproaches which her Modesty and her Virtue did make her to conceit. In fine, both the one and the other did think their weakness very pardonable, when they reflected on the good meen of the Prince. Alzira told him in Portugues, that the assiduous ear­nestness with which he had look'd on her during the Combate of the Lyon and the Bear did make her [Page 50]fancy that he had something to say to her—You are not decei­ved in that, most charming Princess, said Ali Hamet, interrupting her, I had so much joy to be satisfied as to your real Condition, finding that you were born of the Noble Blood of the Cherifs, that I thought my self oblig'd to you, for that in­nocent fraud which you had used, in the concealing of your Rank from me. But you had assur'd me, replied Alzira, that that know­ledge should have no considerable advantage over your mind, and that it would produce no alterati­on in your Love. I do confess to you, reply'd the Prince, that it had been difficult for me to have added any thing unto that strong passion which I had already for you. Yet I was so surpriz'd to see that a Person of so perfect a Beauty, and of so high a Birth, did not disapprove of my Love, that it has enter'd me into new engagements; [Page 51]and I was resolv'd to expose my self unto all sorts of perils to see you again, when the Eunuque brought me the Bill. Alzira, who was in some kind of Confusion at those last Words, would have ex­cus'd her self from having writ that Note; and having less designs of pleasuring her Rival, than of preserving her Modesty, she told him, without any further reflexion, that it was to Balabai, and not to her self, that he was indebted for that kindness. The Prince turning him immediately towards Balabai, and taking her by the hand, he kissed it with some little force, and return'd her thanks for the good Office that she had rendred him. Balabai deceived thus by this shew of Love that was so like to a rea­lity, and believing that the Prin­cess did really serve her with good success, did after that hearken with a great deal of satisfaction to all the tender discourses of the two [Page 52]Lovers, and did facilitate to them at divers times, the means of fre­quently seeing and entertaining one another. Ali Hamet's long de­tainment did serve but to make his Merits the better known at the Court of Fess, and to cast new fears and jealousies in Bembu­ca's mind, who did not doubt but that a Prince that had such singu­lar qualities would one Day set up the interest which he pretend­ed to the Crown of Fess. Those reasons, with that hatred he had for Gayland, did resolve him on Ali Hamet's ruine. He sought di­vers ways to accomplish it, with­out the least distrust by any body, fearing least he should draw on himself the hatred of his People, in spilling the Blood of Mahomet. After divers considerations on this Business, it came in his mind, that Talbor had done wounderful things with Gun-powder, which made him of opinion that he might con­trive [Page 53]such a Mine as should make no great noise in the blowing up under the Princes Chamber, and yet crush him to Death under the ruines of that building, with­out any distrust that it had been design'd, seeing that the use of Gun-powder was yet scarce known at Fess. He proposed his design to Talbor, who not knowing that it was intended against the Prince, did promise the King to make a Mine that should act in the same manner that he desir'd, and with little or no noise. He went about it very secretly, and when it was ready to spring, he gave the King notice, who was overjoy'd at it. The Eve to that Execution Day, Bembuca being only with the Prince of Fess, and the Princess Alzira his Children, he advertised them of his design, that they might not be surpriz'd with the noise that they should hear; and to set forth that important piece of Service, [Page 54]which he design'd to render them by Ali Hamets death, he spoke to them in these terms.

Our Blessed Prophet, the most intimate Friend to our Great Alla, has always been favourable to me: For after that he had destroyed the Almanzors, and the Beneme­rignis, he was pleas'd to place me on the Throne, preferably unto the Father of Ali Hamet, and of divers others of our Kin­red, which the Right of Blood did call unto it before me. He has given me the Victory over mine Enemies, and he has come in his own Person to defend my dear Daughter from the fury of the Lyon. But he did never give me a more sensible token of his pro­tection, than in causing Ali Hamet to fall into my Hands, through the assi­stance of my Friend Gayland, who is the onely Person that might one Day disturb my quiet, and hinder you my Children from succeeding me in [Page 55]the Throne. All these reasons, my dear Children, have made me re­solve the destruction of that Ene­my. Talbor the Stranger, has by my order contriv'd a Mine under his Appartment, this Night you will hear it fall, be not concern'd at it, and before the People feign to lament the fate of that unhap­py Prince.

Alzira, struck through the Heart at the news of this cruel resoluti­on, was in the greatest trouble imaginable to constrain her self be­fore her Father: Yet she did repre­sent to him, that the Great Maho­met might be offended at such an Action, and that it were much better to leave to that Prophet the care of his own Revenge, than to undertake it himself. But Bem­buca not regarding her reasons, made answer, that Mahomet had sufficiently given him to under­stand his Will in that, by Ali Ha­mets Imprisonment. The Princess [Page 56]daring not to reply any further, thought of nothing more but of concealing that disorder she was in. The King, after he had enjoyn'd them silence, did retire, and Al­zira return'd into her Appartment overcome with grief and sorrow. But yet shee took Ali Hamet's in­terests in hand, without abando­ning of her self unto a fruitless despair, and did resolve to hazard all, for the safety of her Lover; wherefore under some other pre­tences, she caused an Eunuques dress to be brought to her, and having subtilly rid her self of those Persons that were about her, she changed her habit, and went into Ali Haemet's Appartment. The Prince, who presently knew her face, was very much surpriz'd at this disguise: The Princess, who did blush to see her self in that con­dition, did intreat him to suspend all the Judgments that an Action seemingly so rash might oblige [Page 57]him to make of her. I confess, continued she, that I have not had leisure, to make reflexions, a too pressing interest has made me act, and I have not wav'd to expose my selfe to Ruine, when your Life was concern'd. The Prince greatly mov'd at his Mistrisses bounties, cast himself at her feet, and would have spoken tender and passionate things to her, as he us'd to do. But, Lose no time, reply'd Alzira, interrupting him, my Fa­ther has resolv'd your ruine, and by Morning this great Appart­ment will be but Rubbish, under which you are to perish; you must instantly retire, and return into your Territories, where I flatter my self, that for Love of me, you will endeavour a Peace, and that you will not fail to send me of your news so soon as arriv'd. She with that gave him a Pidgeon, which she had carefully brought up, and assur'd him that if he sed [Page 58]it with a certain Seed which she named, it would be easie for them frequently to Write to one another; because that that kind of Pidgeon did never fail of returning into those places where they have al­ready been fed; which thing is so well known, that they are made use of as swift Posts in divers places of Africa. Ali Hamet, scarce minding the danger that he was threatned with, had much to do to resolve to depart, and to distance himself from his Princess. But Alzira did so earnestly press him to think on his safety for her sake, seeing that he neglected it on his own account, that at last he went out, followed by the disguised Al­zira, who had already taken all the necessary measures to prevent all obstacles. She did accompany him unto the last Gate of the Pa­lace, and having not the power to take leave of him, she suddenly stole from his sight, taking the [Page 59]way to her Appartment, very much afflicted at the Princes departure, though well satisfied that she had saved her Lovers life. She was scarce got into her Chamber, when that the Mine was sprung, with that success that Talbor had promised. All the Palace was a­larm'd at it, the Princesses Wo­men came about her in a great disorder, and at every moment there came into her Chamber some Eunuque which brought her some new circumstance of that extraor­dinary event. The confusion was so great, that it was long before the truth of what had passed was known. At last the Princess was assur'd that Ali Hamet was the only considerable Person that had perished under the Ruines of that Fabriek. There were some also that positively said they had seen his Body shatter'd in a thousand pieces. Though Alzira had been prepared against all those discour­ses, [Page 60]she was much concerned, fea­ring lest that peradventure the Prince might have returned into his appartment. But those distur­bances of mind were over, when the King sent her word of the misfortune that had happened, and of the fruitless pains that had been already taken to unbury the Body of Ali Hamet, which had not yet been found. Balabai came in that instant to the Princess, and in her presence did yield unto all the ef­fects that so great a sorrow could inspire into a most afflicted Per­son. Alzira did endeavour to com­fort her, and lest that those disorders that she was in should be constru­to her disadvantage, she discreetly gave out, that a Maid Servant whom Balabai had lov'd very well had perished under the Ruines of that Appartment, in which she lay. Mean time Bembuca, who applau­ded himself for the happy success of his design, and who made use [Page 61]of all the cautiousness imaginable to prevent that he should ever be su­spected of having any Hand in Ali Hamets misfortune, who he thought certainly dead, gave out orders to have Talbor convy'd to the next Sea-Port, that he might be sent back to Tangire, which belongs to the English. Thus every one in Fess did believe that this great accident had happened through the fault of those Architects that had had the ordering of that building. Af­ter divers fruitless cares to distin­guish the Body of Ali Hamet from others, the King perceiving that all those that were found involved in the Ruines were so shatter'd that it was impossible scarce to know one, he, to impose the more on the People, order'd that a Body, which he pretended to be that of Ali Hamet, should be Imbalmed; after which he had all things got in a readiness for the celebration of his [Page 62]Funeral Rites after the same man­ner as they us'd to be rendred un­to the Princes of the Blood of the Cherifs.

Alzira sympathising with Balabai in her afflictions, did not omit any thing that might give her com­fort. She was even on the point of letting her know that the Prince was not dead; but well foreseeing that the Joy of a Rival would cause her more trouble than would the sorrow of a Friend, the inte­rest of her affections did always diswade her from giving so much satisfaction to that afflicted Lover. Alas! would Balabai say, you love but a meer Chimera, whose single remembrance affords you both Joy and Delight; judge by that of the sorrow which I do feel in the loss of a Prince so accomplished as was the Young Cherif, who had infus'd a passion in me from the very first time that I had seen him, and who already [Page 63]had such advantageous thoughts of me, as you are sensible of. The Princess not answering positively unto her discourses, was endeavou­ring to comfort her, when that the King sent her Word, that at last the Body of the unfortunate Ali Hamet had been taken up, and that it was requisite that she should prepare her self to assist the the next Day at those magnifi­cent Funerals which he had orde­red should be performed for him. The name of Ali Hamet did re­new all Balabai's sorrows, and Al­zira was no longer in a conditi­on to assist her; she was so trou­bled her self with hearing this cruel news, that she remain'd without senseor motion, not being able to be­lieve that it was true, neither having the power of satisfying her self on a thing which she so feared; and ap­prehending also lest that her Fa­vourite should take notice of the concern which she took in the [Page 64]Prince's interest. Balabai shed tears, while that Alzira was making a thousand reflections: Now she fea­red that the Prince might have returned into his Chamber, a mo­ment after she would please her self with the thoughts of his departure, remembring that she had accompa­nied him unto the farthest Gate of the Palace, neither could she see any likely hood, that that Bo­dy which was talked of could be his. Yet all her reason could not settle her allarm'd Love, she was oblig'd to give out, that she was Sick, taking to her Bed, under that pretence to conceal from every Body the disorders that she was in. The King, who did most tenderly Love his Daughter, was extream­ly afflicted at her Sickness, and did not appear at Ali Hamet's Fu­nerals as he had design'd: He would go every moment to the Princess, and so soon as he was returned from thence, he would [Page 65]send thither the Prince his Son. The Prince having one Day ob­serv'd, that Balabai was weeping by the Princess, he was mov'd with a tender compassion at the tears of so Beautiful a Person, and endeavouring to consolate her, com­passion draw tears from him also, which caused an effect somewhat extraordinary. For Balabai being surprised with seeing the Prince to weep, was willing to make Alzira observe her Brothers good Nature; but the Prince interrupted her, and assur'd her, that his Sister had no share in those tears, which com­passion had forc'd from him at the sight of the sorrow of so Beauti­ful a Person as she her self was. That answer caused Balabai to blush, not expecting it; and how great soever her sorrow was, she was somewhat moved with that flat­tery, which made her return the Prince thanks for his Bounty. Al­zira, who maugre all her distur­bance [Page 66]of Mind, did still flatter her self with the hopes that her Lover was not dead, was not displeased that the Prince her Brother had spoken so obligingly to her Favorite, and did resolve to advan­tage her self by that good disposi­tion, in making Balabai wholly to forget Ali Hamet. So that at all times that her sorrows did give her some intervals, she would not lose any occasion to mention the Beauty of Balabai to her Brother, and of entertaining her with the great advantages that a Person who should have the good For­tune to please the Prince, might expect. The Prince would heark­en to her with pleasure, and Ba­labai would confess, that if after the loss which she had so lately had, she could be capable of be­ing mov'd with any thing, the Prince should not be indifferent to her. Alzira, who would not ap­pear till she had received news [Page 67]from her Love, did pass many Days without stirring forth of her Chamber; which gave means to the Prince, who did hourly visit her, frequently to entertain Balabai. He found her much to his mind, and those enterviews did greatly increase that esteem which he al­ready had for her. There being no great distance between that kind Sentiment, and Love, the Prince stay'd not long before he passionately lov'd her. Balabai, who had at the first hearkened un­to the Prince but through a com­playsancy to Alzira, had much to do to suffer him to speak of Love; she had resolv'd never to love any thing more after the unhappy suc­cess of her first Amours; the thoughts of her dead Lover, did contribute to confirm her in that resolution, being prepossesed, that only Ali Hamet was worthy of being beloved.

[Page 68] While that the Prince of Fess was endeavouring to make her al­ter her mind, the Court of Suss was in the extreamest affliction imaginable. The Prince Gayland had received news from all parts, of the death of his Kinsman Ali Hamet; the certain knowledge which he had of Bembuca's wicked Nature, did make him think that Ali Hamet's death had been de­sign'd, which obliged him to a War, and to exhort all his Sub­jects to do their utmost, to re­venge such a perfidious Action. The Young Cherif being highly regretted, every one did put him­self in a posture of revenging his death, and Gayland had soon found himself at the head of a numerous Army, had not Ali Hamet return'd, which did most pleasingly surprise the Court. His Uncle gave him a thousand marks of his affection and tenderness. There was no other talk but of divertisements, [Page 69]and every one did set forwards in expressing the joy which they re­ceived by the Princes Arrival. Ali Hamet bearing in mind how that his Mistriss had recommend­ed to him, the disposing of things towards a Peace, did highly praise to his Uncle all the good Offices which he had received from Bem­buca, and did perswade him, the better to serve his Princess, that Bembuca not being able to resist the instances of his Council, who did continually inspire him to rid his Hand of so dangerous an Ene­my, he had the Generosity to give him notice of it, and deceiving all the Ministers of State, in secret­ly conveying him out of the Pa­lace unknown to all. Gayland, who could not know Bembuca by all those Actions of Generosity, was in a strange surprisal at the Princes recital, and not being able to comprehend how that the King of Fess should be so strangely chan­ged, [Page 70]he judg'd that nothing but Ali Hamet's merit could work so great a Miracle.

The Prince having thus disposed his Uncles mind to Peace, thought of nothing more but of giving his Princess some news of himself. He had with great care preserved that Pidgeon which she had given him, and having observ'd all that she had prescribed him as to the feeding of it, to oblige his return, he let him go, after he had fast­ned to his Feet this following Letter.

The Pidgeon being arrived in­to the Princesses Closet, she read her Lovers Letter with all the pleasure imaginable; her joy was so visible on her Face, that it had been impossible for her to have conceal'd it. The Prince and Ba­labai having afterwards taken no­tice of it, she told them that her joy did proceed from that her Sickness had given an occasion to a good intelligence between two Persons which were very dear unto her: For Balabai, who was of the humour of most part of Women, had at last accustomed her self unto the Princes passionate discours­es. The two Lovers thought them­selves oblig'd unto her for her com­plaisancy, and if at any time she retired her self in private, to read over again that Letter which Ali [Page 73]Hamet had sent her, they judg'd that she did it expresly to favour their Amours. Mean time she had an extream care of her Pidge­on, which she sent back a little while after, with the following An­swer, having first left him a whole Day without Food.

GAYLAND, who had observ'd that his Kins­man since his return was much more Me­lancholy than usual, did in vain endeavour to guess at the cause thereof. Bembuca's Ge­nerosity he did very much distrust, and though he was but too cer­tain [Page 76]of the Princes virtue, to fear any private intelligence between him and the King of Fess, all toge­ther did cause some disturbances in his Mind. He was one Day walking with his Nephew on a Tarras, with a design cunningly to pierce into the reasons of his sadness, when that Ali Hamet did perceive the Pidgeon which was bringing to him Alzira's answer. A joy did so surprise him, that without think­ing that he was with his Sovereign, he abrubtly left him, and went up into his appartment, to learn some news of his Mistress. This odd kind of proceeding raised new doubts in Gayland, who had very well observ'd that that Pidgeons arrival had caused some disorder in his Nephew. And whereas it is a very ordinary thing in that Country to make use of Pidgeons to send Letters by; he no longer doubted but that Ali Hamet had received some Letters from Bem­buca. [Page 77]All those things that had pre­ceded did confirm him in his doubts, which made him resolve to inform himself at what rate so­ever. The African Princes for the most part, are very curious in Falconry. Gayland, who had all kind of Falcons, made choice of a cast of the best Hawks, he order'd that they should not be fed of one whole Day, and the next Day he had them kept by two Falconers on the avenues of Ali Hamet's Appartment, with order to let them fly, so soon as they should see a Pidgeon go from thence. The Prince failed not the next Morn­ing to write a very tender Letter to his Princess, which he intrust­ed to his faithful Messenger. The Falcons having perceived it setting forth, did presently follow that in­nocent Courier, and being pressed with hunger, they devoured him in an instant. The Men took up the Letter, and carryed it to Gay­land, [Page 78]who found it to be a most passionate writing: He guest by those terms in which it was penn'd, that the Prince was belov'd by Al­zira, and compatising in his Ne­phews love, he was sorry for what he had done, and did no longer doubt, but that the Princess had obtain'd from her Father, both the Life and the Liberty of her Lover. Ali Hamet being extreamly dear unto him, and besides he being weary with making War, he re­solv'd to contribute towards that Marriage, and to surprise his Ne­phew, in informing him of his re­solution. The same Day he call'd him in private, and after that he had expressed much kindness to­wards him, he told him, that he had a design to marry him, and that he would no longer expose him unto the perillous hazard of Wars, till he had given him some Successors. Ali Hamet not doubting but that his Uncle had [Page 79]cast his Eyes on some of his Sub­jects in order to his Marriage, was so affrighted at that proposition, that he remain'd speechless. Gay­land did press him to speak, and to declare his mind to him without constraint. The Prince grown more bold, did assure him, that Glory only was his whole ambiti­on, further saying, that it would be shameful for him to Marry before he had wiped off the shame of his Prison by some signal action. I had resolv'd, reply'd Gayland, to send some magnificent presents un­to the King of Fess, to return him thanks for having set you at liber­ty, and I was in a mind at the same time to have the Princess his Daughter ask'd in Marriage for you, but since I see that you have some aversion against it—The Princess Alzira, Sir! reply'd Ali Hamet, sur­prisingly. Yes, Bembuca's Daugh­ter, continued Gayland; but be­cause that I will not compel you [Page 80]to any thing, I will not think any longer on it: Ah! my Lord, reply­ed Ali Hamet, are not you my So­vereign? and are you to con­sult my Will in any thing that con­cerns the good of your People? It is not with you, reply'd Gayland, that I will make use of my Sove­reign rights; and seeing that it is Glory only which takes up all your ambition, I will permit you to fol­low that noble design. Saying of this, he retir'd, and gave not time to the Prince to answer him. Yet he omitted not sending an Embas­sador secretly, loaden with costly presents, with order to present them to Bembuca, and to demand Alzi­ra of him, for Ali Hamet, who mean time was under most cruel perplexities, for having lost so fa­vourable an occasion of engaging his Uncle to concern himself in his Marriage. Sometimes he was for an entire declaration of his Love, a moment after, he would [Page 81]alter hir mind, fearing lest that Gayland should ill resent his designs on the Princess of Fess, without his consent. While that he was in those agitations, Alzira was la­bouring with an extream applicati­on to render happy her Brother and Balabai, who did most passio­nately love one another: she had already spoken to the King, in fa­vour of those two Lovers, foresee­ing that one Day she might stand in need of a like complaisance from them; or peradventure that she did take that care to recom­pence Balabai in some measure for the loss of Ali Hamet. It being customary for the African Princes to Espouse those of their own Sub­jects that they best like, Bembuca made no opposition unto the two Lovers happiness, considering that this Marriage would preserve an union in his Family. Balabai's Relati­ons, who were very considerable at the Court of Fess, did not omit any [Page 82]thing in which they might express their joy, in publick rejoycing; and the Prince, who was very ga­lant, having wished that there might be some Tilting, caused it to be published throughout all the Cities of the Kingdom of Fess and Morocco. All things were getting in readiness against those great Festivals, when that Gayland's Em­bassador arriv'd there. Bembuca, who was the most subtle of all Men, was extreamly surpriz'd at the Magnificent presents, and much more at the Embassadors demands, being fully perswaded, that Ali Hamet was dead; which made him think that Gayland, who had no Successor, did peradventure fear some revolt in his Domini­ons, and that he design'd to im­pose on his People, under pre­tence of this marriage, in conceal­ing from them the Death of his Ne­phew. Those reflexions did oblige him to answer this piece of craft [Page 83]by another, and to say to the Embassador, that with joy he did yield the Princess unto his Masters Nephew; but whereas it was the belief of the whole Court that Ali Hamet was not living, it was ne­cessary that that Prince should ap­pear in Person in the City Fess, to undeceive the World, lest that otherwise his Council and People should oppose themselves unto that imaginary Marriage. Bembuca ha­ving given this Answer, was impa­tient to inform his Children there­of, and more particularly Alzira, who had so great an interest in the business. The Princess, being surpriz'd with her Fathers discourse, did perceive that her Lover had act­ed according to her intentions, and being desirous to anticipate the Kings designs, she told him, with an affected modesty, that she knew her duty, and that she should obey him without repugnancy. It will not be hard for you to do so on [Page 84]this occasion, reply'd the King, since that we all know that Ali Hamet is dead. But what if he should come, Sir, reply'd the Prin­cess? would you keep your word? That cannot be, reply'd the King; but should he return, I should as­sure my self better of his death, in causing him to perish before my Eyes. Alzira, affrighted at those last Words, What, Sir, said she, with tears in her Eyes, you would then make me be the pretence un­der which you would make an un­fortunate Prince of the race of the Cherifs to perish? May the great Alla make me die first. In ending these Words, she cast her self at his Feet, and did protest, that she would not rise again, till he had first promised her that he would offer no wrong unto Ali Hamet, if he should chance to return, see­ing that it was not impossible but that the Prophet Mahomet might have wrought a Miracle to pre­serve [Page 85]a Prince of his own Blood. Bembuca admiring his Daughters Credulity, caused her to rise, and granted her request, being prepossest with this Princes death.

Gayland's Embassador, who ac­cording to the custom of the Country, had taken along with him divers Pidgeons, wherewith to give notice to his Prince of the good success of his Negotiation, gave him an account of Bembuca's Answer, and advertised him also of the Princess of Fess his Marri­age, and of the famous Tilting which was preparing to that pur­pose. So soon as Gayland did re­ceive that Letter he passed into Ali Hamet's Appartment, and after that he had told him that he had newly rereived Letters from Fess, he told him that Bembuca had Marryed both his Children, that there were great Festivals prepa­ring for the Marriage of the Prince with Balabai, which was already [Page 86]consummated, and would suddainly be follow'd with that of Alzira with another Prince, unto whom her Father has promised her. How! my Lord, interrupted Ali Hamet, news are sent you that Bembuca is Marrying of the Princess Alzira? Her Father has already passed his Word for it, reply'd Gayland, (giving his Embassadors Letters;) you will be better informed of this by this Letter which you may read, while I am going to dispatch a business of consequence. The Prince re­main'd so astonisted at this cruel news, that he had scarce so much strength left him as would serve to open the Letter which his Uncle had given him. In an instant a thousand violent and passionate de­signs came in his head, having no other thoughts but of sacrificing that happy Rival unto his Love. That hatred which he already felt against him, did set him in an im­patient desire to read the Letter, to [Page 87]learn his name. Never was there a surprise like unto that of Ali Hamet, when reading the Letter, he found the great Obligations which he had to his Uncle; he read over the Letter divers times, not easily believing a good Fortune so little expected, and though he knew very well that Bembuca did de­sign to draw him to the Court of Fess, to rid himself of him by some new artifice, he took such de­light in thinking that in some short time he should be permitted to be­hold again his most dear Princess with the Kings consent, and that of his Uncle, that he did cast a­side all those other considerations that might give him any distrust of Bembuca's designs. Gayland, who had purposely absented himself to let him relish at ease all that joy which he judged that those happy news would afford him, did return into Ali Hamet's Chamber, who presently went to embrace his [Page 88]Knees so soon as he did see him appear, expressing in his actions, and by the disorder of his discour­ses, how sensible he was of this new Obligation. He confess'd to him, that he was sure of Alzira's heart, and then humbly intreated him that he would be pleas'd to give him leave to depart with all diligence, that he might be at the Tilting that was preparing at Fess, to have the satisfaction of brea­king a Lance or two there, in fa­vour of his dear Princess. Gay­land gave his consent, and the time pressing, the next Day he sent back the same Pidgeon which was come from Fess, with a Let­ter which he writ to his Em­bassadour, to order him him to get in readiness, as secretly as he could possible, all such things as the Prince should stand in need of for the Tilting. Though that the Embas­sadour did think it impossible for the Prince to come in time for [Page 89]the Tilting, yet he performed ex­actly his Commission. Mean time Ali Hamet, unto whom love did facilitate all things, made such di­ligence, that he render'd himself at Fess before the Tilting was en­ded. He hastily did Arm himself, and being mounted on an Arabi­an Horse, he presented himself at the Bariers at the same time that the Prince of Fess, who was very dexterious at those kind of exer­cises, had already overcome divers brave Cavaliers, and was going to receive the Prise from his far Balabai's hands; only Mauca­den, who might have disputed it with him, declining the running against him. This Prince, ambiti­ous of his Conquests, was demand­ing in a haughty accent whether there was any person more that would be born down, or un­seated, when that Ali Hamet made sign with his hand to give him notice that he would brake a [Page 90]Lance with him. The Prince of Fess, being impatient to punish that presumptuous Person, did pre­sently set himself in a readiness to give him satisfaction. The Equi­page of the unknown Person be­ing very magnificent, did oblige all Persons, and especially the La­dies, to cast their Eyes on him. He was so well on Horse, and he did handle his Lance with so good a Grace, that it was presently judg'd that he might give the Prince some work. Yet were not the opinions divided, and after those proofs that the Prince had already given of his valour, and dexterity, no body did doubt but that he would gain the advantage likewise over the stranger. The signal being given, they both set forth with such a swiftness as did shew the impatiency which they both had to joyn one ano­ther. At this first encounter they disorder'd each other with almost [Page 91]an equal advantage, which did in­crease that good opinion that every one had already for the Stranger. The Prince of Fess being fretted at the resistance that his concurrent had made, did not stay long without setting forth the second time. Ali Hamet went off also, and did justle the Prince of Fess with so much strength, that having caused him to quit his stirrups, he bore him down. The Princes fall did alarm all the Spectators. The Ladies were already making of imprecations against this Stranger, when that the Prince blaming of their injustice, let them know that he had received no hurt; and he himself did there admire the strength and dexterity of his Con­queror. The brave Maucaden, who through respect had wav'd run­ning against the Prince of Fess, did intreat the King that he might have leave to revenge him, thinking that after he had over­come [Page 92]two Cavaliers of Morcco, who had the reputation of being the most valiant of all Africa, that this Stranger would have much to do to resist him. The great attention with which the Ladies did look on Ali Hamet, made them to take notice of his Shield, on which there was pictu­red a Cavalier that was overco­ming of a Lyon with one hand, and was holding forth his other hand to a Lady, with certain Ara­bick Words, which signified, In sa­ving her, I my own self have lost. No body did comprehend the sense of those Words. Alzira, who did find them very confor­mable unto her Lovers adventure, did observe him more carefully than she had done before; and the more that she examined him, the more did she find his port, shape, and good meen to be like Ali Ha­met's. Then this unknown Per­sons Valour did the more confirm [Page 92]him in her thoughts: But when she did reflect on Ali Hamet's hundred Leagues distance from thence, and that the Justing had been but very lately published, she did fear that her love did deceive her, seeing it was impossible that her Lover could be advertis'd of that Festival and got thither in so short a time. While that the Princess was in those agitations of Spirit, the brave Stranger did en­crease that admiration which was already had for him, by the advan­tage which he had over Mauca­den. Balabai, who was to give the Prise appointed for the Conque­rour, did intreat the King to dis­pence her from that ceremony, ex­pressing some repugnancy against recompencing of that Person who had deprived the Prince and her Brother of the Victory. The King unwilling to constrain her, did ap­point the Princess Alzira for the presenting of the Prise to the [Page 24]Victor, who was already alighted, and was drawn near to the Kings Scaffold; every body had an ex­tream desire to know him, and he was earnestly pressed to pull off his head piece, as is the custom; but the stranger did still put it off, till being call'd by the Prin­cess to receive the Prise which he had so well merited, she requi­red him to discover his Face. Ali Hamet had not the power to refuse his Mistris: He presented himself bare headed to her, and did receive from her fair hands a Cimiter studded with precious Stones. It is easie to imagine how much the sight of a Person that was thought dead, did surprise the whole Court. Balabai remembring a Face which had been so agree­able to her, was so surprz'd at it, that she fell into a swoon after she had given a great shriek. Alzira, who notwithstanding all the rea­sonings which she had framed [Page 95]within her self, did still retain a secret foreknowledge that this brave Stranger could be none other than Ali Hamet, was agitated with a thousand confused notions, joy fear, love, did all at once move in her Soul, but the surprize that eve­ry one was in, did cause that the less notice was taken of hers. The King more surpriz'd than all the rest, did however constrain himself, and expressed a great many civilities to­wards the Prince, who said as he came up to him, Sir, here are I once again your Prisoner. The King assur'd him that he was free, and unwilling to enter into any kind of clear understanding, in presence of so numerous a compa­ny, he had him to the Palace, where having commanded all Per­sons to retire, he inquired of him by what Miracle he had escaped death. Alzira, who was in most cruel perplexities on her Lovers be­half, did leave Balabai under her [Page 96]Womens care, and ran into her Fathers Chamber, she conjur'd him to remember the promise that he had made her of not attempting any thing against the life of Ali Hamet. The King angry at a tran­sport so unsutable to the modesty of his Daughters sex, did give her a kind of angry answer. Alzira afright­ed at the Kings anger; It is no longer time to dissemble, Sir, said she to him, our Great Prophet has already appeared unto me divers times, and has threatned me with a long continuance of dreadful evils, if I did not Marry this Prince. Bem­buca astonished at Alzira's bold­ness, and discourse, was at a stand what to answer her, when that Ali Hamet taking advantage of his disorder, did assure him that Mahomet had warned him to go forth of that place where he was in danger of being destroy'd, that he himself had led him out of the Palace, giving him great assurances, [Page 97]that he should ere long be happy with a Princess of the Blood of the Cherifs, that he was not return'd to Fess but by order of that Pro­phet, and finally, that he did hope that having obey'd unto all that had been prescribed to him, Ma­homet would take care of the rest.

Bembuca, who was a Person that did never give credit to Miracles, any further than they agreed with his interests, gave the two Lovers to understand that it would be a great presumption to oppose the Decrees of Heaven: But that for his part, he durst not give his consent unto that Mariage, until the Prophet had first given him to understand his pleasure therein: Alzira was going to reply, but the King did interrupt her, say­ing, that after so much fatigue, Ali Hamet might stand in need of rest, and under that pre­tence, he gave order to one of his Officers, to conduct him to [Page 98]a certain Appartment which he nam'd. They were thus all three separated. The King extreamly surpriz'd, Ali Hamet passionately in­amour'd, and the Princess divided between hope and fear. So soon as she was return'd into her Cham­ber, she passed into Balabai's, where she found the Prince of Fess, who who was in vain tormenting him­self to chear up his Wife, who was become very much out of hu­mour ever since her recovery from her swoon. The Prince intreated his Sifter to make use of all the power that she had over Balabai, to oblige her to change her hu­mour. Alzira, who was wholly taken up with her Love, did pro­mise to her Brother to do what he desir'd, and at the same time did let him know that it concern'd his honour to take a special care of Ali Hamet, and above all to pre­vent that the King, through his Councils advice, should take any [Page 99]violent resolutions against that ge­nerous Prince. Balabai conceal­ing the disorders of her heart, did also intreat the Prince to be near the King to discover his de­sign, and did pretend to do out of complaisance to Alzira, that which she did through that interest which she had in the person of Ali Ha­met.

The Prince, who had no thoughts but to please those two Persons that were so dear unto him, went forth to meet with the King. Ba­labai, finding her self alone with Alzira, let fall those tears which with much adoe she had kept in, in the Princes presence. Sympathise, dearest Princess, said she to her, with me in the most sensible sorrow that ever was felt. You know better than any one else, the strong passion which I had for Ali Hamet, even from the very first moment that I did see him; we have [Page 100]thought him dead, and you may remember how sensible I was of his loss. All my affliction did not take away those few charms which have caused my misfortune. The Prince of Fess found me to his li­king, you had the goodness to speak to me in his behalf, my va­nity rather than my love did make me condescend to his intreaties; I have given him my hand, and my faith, being prepossest that Ali Ha­met was no longer living. Mean time the Heavens have taken care to preserve a life so precious to me, you have seen him as well as I, all my senses have withdrawn them­selves in beholding that dear Ob­ject, my heart ashamed of its trea­chery hath abandoned me, and it seems as if I had returned from my Swoon but to be the more sen­sible of my misfortunes; for what shall become of me, if I cannot lay aside my affections, nor defend my self of those engagements that I am [Page 101]concern'd in with the Prince of Fess? In this extremity, I expect no succour but from you, most dear Princess, you ever did take pity of my weakness, with your favour continue your bounty to me in this occasion, and give me some comfortable advice. Counsels are useless, reply'd Alzira coldly, when that our duty does prescribe us what we ought to do; you know yours, follow it, that is all the Counsel that can be given you. Alzira not being able to maintain any longer a Conference that wound­ed her Love, would have retir'd in ending these Words; but Bala­bai, who was melting into tears, being startled at so harsh an an­swer, cast her self about the Prin­cesses neck, intreating her not to abandon her, and to remember that she had always honoured her with her affection. I must confess to you, reply'd Alzira, that your in­gratitude does surprize me, your [Page 102]Prince forgetting what you are, does make choice of you to raise you to an honour unto which you could never have pretended. The King at my request consents to it, for which you have return'd me thanks; and now through an unruly passi­on, you are asking of me advices against my own Brother, and such as would destroy my own work. When that our passions grow un­just, our reason must be of power to suppress them, before they ever come to be able of obliging us to act any thing against our own honour. Alas! reply'd Balabai, it well appears that you know not Love, it is a Tyrant who acts but by Caprichios, he neither harkens unto reason nor honour, and he is so well obey'd, that very frequent­ly the heart approves of those things which reason condemns. This conversation had lasted longer yet, if the Prince of Fess had not come in, who informed them that the [Page 103]King had newly resolv'd the Mar­riage between Alzira and Ali Ha­met, on condition that he should renounce all his pretentions on the Kingdoms of Fess and Morocco; he beg'd their Pardon that he could stay no longer, because that he was going to propose it to Ali Hamet, as from his Father; and so he presently went out. This di­feourse did surprise the Princess and Balabai, in two different man­ners. They observ'd each other, endeavouring to conceal from one another the motions of joy and of rage which these news did pro­duce in their Souls. Mean time, as it is more difficult to conceal a despair than a joy, Balabai lifting up her Eyes to Heaven, Great Alla! said she, can it be possible that Ali Hamet should espouse my Princess? Cruel Fates! what would you have of me? Am I not mise­rable enough already, in loving a Prince without hopes of ever pos­sessing [Page 104]him? Must I, in losing him, lose also that Person which is dea­rest to me in the World? Yes, my dear Princess, continu'd she, ad­dressing her self to Alzira; I am so little Mistriss of my self, that in spight of all the obligations I owe you, I feel that it were impossible for me to hinder my self from ha­ting you, if you should espouse my Lover: But I create chimerical ter­rours to my self; you will never consent to that Marriage, the Match is too unequal, and it is to be believed that our great Prophet who has taken care of your life does reserve you to some great Empire. Alas! reply'd Alzira, dissembling her joy, Persons of my rank never Marry by their own choice, we are the States Victims, and we have but the satisfaction to obey with a good grace unto our Parents Wills. Could you, con­tinued Balabai, obey with a good grace in such a like occasion? [Page 105]And would you be so cruel as to espouse a Man so indifferent unto you, and which you know I a­dore? That you adore, interrup­ted Alzira, do you remember that you speak unto your Husbands Sister? A Person that has such un­ruly passions, is unworthy of my Friendship; your passion, which was but a weakness before you had given your hand to my Bro­ther, is now become a crime which is most horrid in my sight. Seek out for another Confident; and re­member, that I favour you in not informing the Prince of your trea­chery. Balabai would have an­swerd her, but Alzira went forth without giving her time so to do, shutting the door after, that Balabai might not follow her.

The Prince of Fess, who had not found Ali Hamet at home, was return'd immediately to the Princesses; but having observ'd that Balabai was speaking with [Page 106]vehemency, he stopped at the door, and did hear the whole con­versation between his Wife and his Sister; those terms of Crime, Hor­rour, and Treachery, that the Prin­cess had us'd, did give him such an horrid Idea of his Wives perfidious­ness, that he had already resolv'd to Sacrifice her unto his revenge, in plunging his Dagger into her bosom. Alzira, who met him as she went forth, and that guest, by the wildness that appear'd in his looks, that he had heard all, did ask him where he had left Ali Hamet. The Prince, without an­swering, went about to break open the door of his Wives Chamber. But Balabai, being affrighted at the Princes violence, and Alzira's out­cries, who was endeavouring to hin­der him, fled away by a back Stairs, which were joyning her Closet, and by that means did save her self from that incensed Princes fury. The Princes action made a great [Page 107]noise in the Palace. The King that was inform'd of it would know the truth. The Prince, who was very well pleased with his Sister, let his Father know that she could best inform him of it. Bem­buca sent for his Daughter, and after that he had expressed to her the sorrow that he had caused by Balabai's Perfideousness to the Prince, in favour of Ali Hamet. Alzira observing that the King had some distrust that Ali Hamet might be in League with Balabai, she did Sacrifice her Friends secret, having no other thoughts but to justifie her Lover; and to make appear that he had no share, nor so much as any knowledge of Ba­labai's foolish passion. The King that did find much probability in all that the Princess said, did cause his Son to consent that Balabai should live, who was guilty but of an involun­tary Passion. And the very next day she was conducted unto a little City [Page 108]in the Confines of the Kingdom of Morocco, where a very mean Pension was assigned her. Mean time Ali Hamet did accept all those terms that Bembuca did require of him, in giving him his Daughter. Yet he having exact measures to observe with Gayland also, he got leave of the King to return to Suss, to get his Uncles consent, being confident that he lov'd him sufficiently not to oppose his happiness. He had the pleasure to entertain his Mi­striss before his departure, and whereas they lov'd each other with the most sincere and strongest passi­on that ever was, the Reader may judge how tender was their con­versation. Ali Hamet did promise her that his Voyage should be ve­ry short, and Alzira did assure him that she should not enjoy any plea­fure and content till his return: After his departure, the King who would have this Marriage accom­plished with a great deal of Splen­dour, [Page 109]gave out his orders to have all necessary things got in readiness.

While that the whole City of Fess was admiring the magnificent preparations which were in hand for this Marriage, Balabai grieved at the ill treatments which she had received at Fess, and jealous of her Rivals good Fortune, she was fill'd with rage and fury, continually thinking of some means to revenge her self of Bembuca, and of hin­dring Ali Hamet's Marriage; as she came to the place of her Exile, she learn'd that Taffilet, who since has made himself so famous by his Conquests, had possessed himself of the Territories of an Ancient Jew, and that he began to impose Laws on divers petty Princes of his Neighbour-hood. Balabai, con­sulting nothing but her own de­spair, went to Taffilet, who she found at the head of a conside­rable Army. He received her very civilly, especially after she had as­sur'd [Page 110]him, that the report of his great exploits had obliged her to come and crave his protection, against Bembuca's injustice. And the more to engage him to concern himself in her interests, she was so subtle as to tell him, that Alzira who was the most Beautiful Princess of the World, and the most sensible of greatness, had divers times menti­oned him to her, complaining of her Fathers bestowing of her by force on Ali Hamet, who had no other merits but of being of the House of the Cherifs, in lieu of giving her unto a Prince of the merit and reputation that Taffilet was. Taffilet, who was the most ambitious of all Men, was ravish'd to learn that love did furnish him with such a plausible pretence of satisfying his ambition; and he having already heard something of Alzira's Beauty, he expressed much joy to learn those advanta­geous thoughts that Balabat did [Page 111]assure him that Princess had of him. He promised her that he would never lay down his Arms till he had reveng'd her of the King of Fess, and deliver'd Alzira from the Tyranny of so unjust a Father. He made great advanta­ges of Balabai's coming to him, for having given out amongst his Souldiers, that one of the greatest Princesses of Africa was come to de­mand his protection, and magnifi­ed to them the great honour which they receiv'd by such an Action, and given them great hopes of recompencing them libe­rally, they all promis'd to follow him where-ever he should lead them. He marched long Journeys, and he had such care of providing all necessaries for the sustenance of his Men, that his Army, far from growing weak by its fatigues, did Daily increase. He overcame di­vers petty Princes that lay in his way, and the news of his march [Page 112]did so affrighten all Africa, that divers great Princes did seek after his Friendship at his own rates. Finally, without amusing himself a­bout small places, which might have made him lose time, he set Siege to the City of Fess, which is the Capital of the whole King­dom, at that time that Ali Hamet was there every moment expect­ed to Celebrate his Marriage with the Princess.

Bembuca, who always had a great Body of Horse in readiness, think­ing to surprize Taffilet before that his Retrenchments were made, did send the Prince of Fess at the head of all his Cavalry to charge Taffilet's tyred Troops. But Taffilet, who very well understood his business, and who had foreseen this Sallying forth, did so vigorously receive the Prince of Fess, that after a great Combate, Bembuca's whole Caval­ry was defeated and made to flie, and the Prince his Son taken Pri­soner. [Page 113]The very next Morning Taffi­let sent a Trumpet to the King of Fess, to let him know that if he did not send to him that very Day the Princess Alzira, he would the next Day send him back his Sons Head in a Sack. The whole Court of Fess was in an extream conster­nation, when that Taffilet's Trum­pet arriv'd there. The King, ha­ving heard what he had to say to him, did find himself in so great a confusion, that he remain'd a long time not knowing on what to re­solve. His Ministers of State, be­ing affrighted at Taffilet's threat­nings, did in vain press him to de­termine, and to save his Son in sending the Princess to Taffilet. This unfortunate Father was in so great a consternation, that he had not so much power as to propose it to his Daughter, foreseeing that she should be forc'd to depart, with such Violences, which he found himself incapable of doing. Mean [Page 114]time, as the business was pressing, he went to his Daughters Apart­ment, and told her, that it was in her power to restore the Peace un­to his Dominions, and to save her Brothers life. Alzira not compre­hending that she could do so much good at once, made answer to her Father with a great deal of submission. Bembuca mov'd with her answer, retir'd without having the power to say more to her; a moment after he sent her one of his Ministers of State, accompany­ed with Taffilet's Trumpet, to let her understand what was expected from her, or rather to force her to depart. For, after having shewn her the necessity there was of sacrifi­cing her for the good of the King­dom, she was placed, without heed given to her tears, in a sumptuous Chariot, which had been prepared for Ali Hamet's Marriage. There were Women given her to serve her, and nothing was forgot that [Page 115]might contribute to gain the Con­querours favour.

Those Persons which did accom­pany the Princess did exhort her in vain to conceal her grief, and to constrain her self when she should be in Taffilet's presence, to obtain the more advantageous conditions in favour of the King and his Sub­jects. Alzira, who thought she had nothing more to care for after the loss of Ali Hamet, did represent unto her self nothing but horrour, and did shew by her answers, that she was very far from buying with her complaysance Taffilet's favour. She on the contrary did attempt to cast her self from the Chariot, in order to destroy her self, complain­ing of the charitable cruelty of those that would prevent her. A Portugais Slave, who had long serv'd her, told her, that seeing she was not afraid of death, she should stay to the last extremities to use that remedy, and in the mean [Page 116]time endeavour to oblige Taffilet on other pretences to defer her Marriage for some time, to give unto the brave Ali Hamet time to raise an Army on Foot, and to Fight Taffilet. Alzira, who did ex­pect all from Love and her Lovers Valour, did approve of her faithful Slaves advice, and did promise to fol­low it, being however resolv'd rather to lose her life than Marry Taffilet. After that she had taken a resolu­tion so conformable unto her Love and despair, she suspended all her sorrow, to take care of her dress, being perswaded, as all Ladies are, that Beauty is a great help to succeed in all their designs. Taffi­let being prepossest with the thoughts that the Princess did love him, as Balabai had assur'd him, set his Army in Battalia to honour her the more; he went to meet her, and did receive her in a very gallant manner, with the noise of an infinite number of Drums and [Page 117]Trumpets; he assur'd her that he had not taken up Arms but to de­liver her from her Fathers force, and to return her thanks for those advantegeous thoughts which she entertain'd of him, in laying at her Feet the Crowns of all those Soveraigns that he had Vanquished. Alzira, who could not make any thing of that discourse, made him no answer but by divers reverences, of which Taffilet was very well pleas'd, being perswaded that the Princesses silence was an effect of her Bashfulness and Modesty. After this he did accompany her into a magnificent Tent which he had caused to be purposely prepared, where she found Balabai, who gave her the reception, and did joy her in Taffilet's presence, of the happy Change which had happened in her fortune, seeing that in lieu of Espousing a Prince without Terri­tories, she was going to give her Hand unto the Conquerour of all [Page 118] Africa. Alzira, who had not been able to retain her tears at the hear­ing of her Lovers Name, gave oc­casion to Taffilet to enquire after the cause of it. Balabai, without giving her time to speak, made answer, that the remembrance of those Violences that her Father would have us'd in Ali Hamet's behalf, did doubtless draw those tears from her. Taffilet, being at this transported with an amorous Zeal, did swear by the great Ma­homet that he would punish that bold Person, and that he should not think himself worthy the pos­sessing of so charming a Princess, till he had laid at her Feet the Head of Ali Hamet. What! Sir, said Balabai, interrupting him, as affrighted at that threatning, would you retard so long your happiness? My own honour, reply'd Taffilet, and what I owe unto that good opi­nion that this Princess has had of me, oblige me to impose on my self [Page 119]that necessity; however if that should not please her, her pleasure shall ever Rule my Will. The Princess, ravish'd to hear Taffilet of his own accord offer to defer the Marriage, was ready to take advan­tage of the proffer which he made her, but then recollecting that by that answer she in a manner did ask him for Ali Hamet's Head, she remained unresolv'd, rather be­ing willing that Taffilet should think that she approv'd not of that delay, than to say any thing that might advance her Lovers Ruine. Taffi­let thinking that the Princess would declare her mind unto Balabai, did assure her that he was going to send back her Brother the Prince, and so went out. So soon as Ba­labai found her self alone with the Princess, she cast her self down at her Feet, to conjure her to divert Taffilet's cruel designs, and to give her Hand to that Prince without any further delay, lest that he [Page 120]should endeavour to give her some marks of his Love and Valour at Ali Hamet's cost, who might be surpriz'd by a Victorious Army, if the Princess had not the goodness to stop this Conquerour. You question not, continued she, but that that violent passion which I have for Ali Hamet has en­gaged me to require Taffilet's assi­stance, to prevent your Marriage. But I do confess to you that your particular interest hath also very much contributed in making me take that resolution, through the Honour and great advantages that will accrew unto you thereby, when throughout the whole Earth it will be said, that after that the most famous Taffilet had vanquished all Africa, he has laid so many Crowns at your Feet, and has terminated all his Con­quests with the possession of your Heart. Live happy with that worthy Spouse, enjoy long your [Page 121]prosperity, and only prevent that the same Hand which I have Arm­ed to procure unto you so much good, serve not to destroy my Lo­ver, who I love a thousand times more than my life. Alzira affright­ed at her Rivals transport, percei­ving that it was very necessary to dissemble with her, did tell her that she had a most particular esteem for Taffilet, and promis'd without doing her self any great violence therein, that she should never require any thing from him against Ali Hamet. Balabai, who was not satisfied with that answer, was continuing her request, when that one of Taffilet's Officers en­ter'd the Tent, who was sent by his Master to Compliment Alzira on the Death of her Brother, and to assure her that he had no hand in the business; that Prince ha­ving been kill'd as he was return­ing to Fess, by a Vanguard who had Charg'd him unknown. These [Page 122]news did variously surprize the two Princesses. For Alzira was extreamly afflicted at the Death of her Brother, and Balabai, who look­ed on that Prince as on an ob­stacle unto that strong passion which she had for Ali Hamet, did from that moment flatter her self, that she should ere long be happy. Mean time Taffilet did make so good use of that consternation in which Bembuca, and the inhabitants of Fess, were, that he made himself Master of that Place, still declaring, that he would not alter any thing; he also perswaded Bembuca that he had no hand in the Prince his Sons misfortune, and did assure him that he would retire out of the King­dom of Fess so soon as he had Mar­ried the Princess. Bembuca being deceived by those discourses, did Write to the Princess, and after that he had conjur'd her by all the tender affection which he had for her, to defer no longer the giving [Page 123]of her Hand unto the famous Taffilet, he also made use of his Paternal authority to command her to do it. Taffilet himself did car­ry this Letter to Alzira; but that Princess, who did find a certain kind of consolation in the death of her Brother, seeing that it helped her with a pretence of bewailing her own sorrows, did intreat Taffilet to afford her two Days to dry up her tears. Taffilet, who did affect a very great submission unto Alzi­ra's Will and Pleasure, did consent to her desires, and did even assure her that he had resolv'd to gain her Heart by his obedience and servi­ces, but that the King had thought it fit to defer no longer their Mar­riage.

While that Taffilet was dispo­sing of all things in a readiness to Espouse Alzira with all the pomp and magnificence that he could think on, that Princess, who did detest her Fathers weakness, did [Page 124]melt into tears, and resolv'd to de­stroy her self, before the term which had been granted her were come. The Portugues Slave, who did never abandon her, did in vain indeavour to make her change her resolution. But the Princess did conjure her not to mention any more to her the living without Ali Hamet, and she did so work upon the Spirit of this faithful Slave with her tears and sobs, that she pro­mis'd to die with her. They pro­pos'd to open their Veins, and to render to each other that recipro­cal Cruel Office. The night seem­ing to them the most fit time to execute their violent design, they did resolve to stay till the Sun were set, and embraced one ano­ther, very well satisfied with that resolution which they had newly taken. A Jew, Portugues-born, who was an Officer in Taffi­lets Troops, and that accidentally did Command that Day the Guard [Page 125]that was at the Princesses Cham­ber door, did over hear their dis­course, by reason that the Princess, who spoke Portugues to her Slave, not thinking that that Language would be understood by any Per­son, had not been so cautious as to speak low. This Officer being a­maz'd at this Tragical design, was mov'd with a sense of Compassion, and did resolve either to save the Princess or to lose himself. A lit­tle time after, he enter'd her Chamber, as if to ask her for some orders. Alzira did mildly recom­mend to him, that no Person should approach her Tent till the next Mor­ning, because that she was very sleepy, and was desirous to go ear­ly to Bed. The Jew, who had Wit, looked fixedly on her, and feign'd to have just then discover­ed something of extraordinary in her Face. Then did he speak Portu­gues, and told the Princess, that she was threatned with a most Tra­gical [Page 126]accident, but that if she could avoid it, she would be fill'd with content, and in a short time would find her self the most happy Prin­cess in the whole World. Alzira startled at so surprising a discourse, did admire this Strangers wonder­ful knowledge, and ask'd him, with tears in her Eyes, if it would be as easie for him to inform her how she should attain to that happiness which he promis'd her, as it had been for him to guess at the acci­dent with which she was threatned. I shall not find any thing diffi­cult to serve you, reply'd the Jew, and seeing that you have such an aversion against Taffilet, I offer to have you to a Port that is but a Mile distant from this Place, and from thence I shall conduct you to Oran, which is the nearest City, and that belongs to the Spaniards: Mean time things may have a new Face, and I promise you, that if you will follow my advice, you [Page 127]will soon enjoy that happiness which I have already foretold you. Alzira mov'd at a discourse which flatter'd her Love and Hopes, durst not however trust to a strangers bare Word. But the Portugues Slave, who peradventure began to repent, did give her such good reasons to oblige her to follow the Jews Counsels, that at last she re­solv'd to do it, being perswaded, that seeing he had guest at her misfortunes, he would likely prove true in what he had told her of her good Fortune. The Jew went forth to dispose so of all things, as that they might make their re­treat without a surprisal; he also sent a considerable Person to the Port, to make sure of a Barque, and a while after he return'd into Al­zira's Chamber, who he found ready to undertake all things. She presented him with a rich Dia­mond, and after that she had ex­acted from him with a thousand [Page 128]Oaths, that he should not betray her, she went forth, followed by her Slave, and came to the Port, with­out complaint of the length of the way, though she had gone on Foot. The fear which they had of being surpriz'd, did oblige them to em­bark hastily on the first Vessel they met with: So soon as they were embark'd, the Jew, who had not betray'd Taffilet, but in order to en­joy the Princess, who had appear­ed so charming to him, had the boldness to mention his Love to her, and to propose to her, to re­tire with him into Europe, where he assur'd her that she should live in a private condition a thousand times more happy than all the A­frican Princesses. Alzira disdain­ing so insolent a proposition, did reproach his perfidiousness to him in very outragious terms, and she did so disturb the Mariners through her tears and outcries, who could not understand one another at their [Page 129]Work, that they threatned to put her in Chains. Alzira, not daunt­ed at their threatnings, gave them all the Jewls which she had taken along with her, to appease them; and perceiving that those libera­lities did make them more re­spectuous, she did exhort them, shewing them the Jew, to Chain up that Villain, who had betrayed her; and did speak to them with so much assurance, that they deferr'd not the obeying of her. But judg­ing by Alzira's extream Beauty, that in the Sale of her they might get a considerable Sum, they resolv'd to conduct her to Tangire, which belongs to the English, left that if they should carry her into any Port of Africa, she should be known, and they punished. They did not alter a resolution so conformable unto their avarice, and the next Day being arriv'd at Tangire, they exposed to Sale the Princess of Fess, the Portugues Slave, and the [Page 130] Jew. The Care that the perfi­dious Mariners did take in setting forth Alzira's Beauty, and the greatness of her Birth, though they knew her not, did invite di­vers English Men to go to see her. They all found her so Charming, that through the Emulation which her Beauty gave them, they did offer an excessive Sum for her, and yet those insatiate fellows would not be satisfied with it, which caused some disorder. The Governour of Tangire was at that time gone into England, and had left to Command in his place the Count Talbor, who was a very experienced Souldier, the same who had been Slave unto Ali Hamet. This Commander being informed of that Slaves Beauty, and of the exorbitant rate that her Masters would sell her at, gave order that she should be brought to him, that he might judge of the business. The Count, who had divers times [Page 131]seen Alzira in the Palace of Fess, did easily know her again, and re­main'd in an extream surprisal at the seeing her, in a condition so different from her own. He endea­vour'd to assure himself better of it, in speaking Portugues to her, ha­ving heard that the Princess of Fess did know that Language. Al­zira, who had a confus'd Idea of having formerly seen else-where the Count Talbor, and that guessed by the respectous manner in which he spoke to her that she was known, did inform him of her disasters in few Words. The Count admiring the Princesses generosity, or rather love, who had chosen ra­ther to expose it self to all kind of misery, than to give her hand unto the Conquerour of Africa, did assure her that he would con­tribute with all his power to sweet­en her misfortunes, and at the same time did mention to her the great obligations in which he was [Page 132]indebted towards Ali Hamet, and of the pleasure which he should do to himself in shewing her his acknowledgments, by rendring some kind of services unto a Person that was so dear unto him. Alzira, who had hearkned but with much indif­ferency unto all this Commanders Civilities, was so mov'd to learn that it was on Ali Hamet's confideration that she did find a protector and a friend in the place of a severe Judge, which she had feared, that from that moment she began to hope that the Jews predictions would be found true, and she begged his pardon from the Count, who had already resolv'd to have him pu­nish'd, as well as the Mariners, who were Chained up, in punishment to their perfidiousness. The Count Talbor having after this caused a magnificent Appartment to be pre­pared for the Princess, she was then treated with the same respect as if she had been still at her Fathers Court.

[Page 133] Taffilet, mean time, grieved at the Princesses flight, and at the cheat which had been put upon him, in assuring him that she lov'd him, did turn all his fury against Balabai, who he did treat most unworthily; and after that, he ad­ded her to the number of those Women that followed the Army to supplie his wantonness. Bembu­ea was no better treated; for Taf­filet, who was always seeking for some pretences to his Ambition, did accuse him of having had an hand in Alzira's flight, and se­cur'd his Person, after that he had possessed himself of his Estates.

Ali Hamet alarm'd at Taffilet's progress, and particularly at the noise which was spred abroad, that he was going to Espouse the Prin­cess of Fess, did raise an Army with an incredible diligence, and made great hast to meet Taffilet, who having had notice of his March, did save him half the la­bour, [Page 134]and went before him with the confidence of a Person who is at the head of a Victorious Army, surprising in the mountains the fa­tigated and ill experienced Troops of Ali Hamet's Army, which he did Charge so advantageously, that he entirely routed them. Ali Ha­met, after that he had done di­vers surprising Actions, made his escape with much ado, and re­turned to Suss, unto his Uncle Gayland, who was so affrighted at this defeat, and at the news which he not long after received of Taffi­let's being enter'd on the Territo­ries of Suss, that he deferr'd not a moment of Embarking himself, with what he had of Riches, to re­tire to Algar, resolv'd to end his Days in a private condition. Ali Hamet, who was less afflicted at the loss of his Country than at that of his Mistriss, perceiving that there was no Prince in Africa of power to protect him against the re­doubted [Page 135] Taffilet, remember'd that formerly a certain Prince of Europe had re-established Muley on the Throne of Tunis; and making some reflexions on all the strange actions which Fame did already re­port of the Emperour of the French, he did think that that Monarch was the only Person that could assist him against Taffilet, which made him resolve to pass into France, to de­sire succor from that great Prince. But having not met with any fit Vessel to perform the Voyage, he went to Tangire on a light Frigat, with an intention to make use of the first opportunity to go to France. The Count Talbor, who had had already advice of Ali Hamet's rout, did conccal that ill news from the Princess, and did still comfort her, in assuring her that it was im­possible that Taffilet's good Fortune should last long. Mean time, he was advertis'd that Gayland was re­tired to Algar; and concerning [Page 136]himself very much in Ali Hamet's business, he was in a great anxie­ty of mind to know what was become of that Prince, when he was informed, that there was a Fri­gat from Suss newly put in at the Port. He had not patience to stay till the Pilot was sent to him, but run to the Port to inform himself more particulrrly of all that passed at Suss, and at Tarudent. Ali Ha­met, whom he presently knew, did make him fear, seeing him, that his business was desperate; the Count received him with all the imaginable respects, and treated him as if he had still been his Slave. The Prince, after he had Embraced him, put him in mind that they were together the first time that he had seen Alzira, and did con­fess to him, that he was less con­cerned at the loss of his Domini­ons, than at the Princesses grief, who was exposed unto Taffilet's Violence. The Count ravished [Page 137]that he could inform him of some­thing that would consolate him in that Consternation that he saw him, did assure him, that the Princess of Fess was not in Taffi­let's power; and having told him the resolution which she had taken, rather to die than to give her Hand to that Prince, he acquainted him after what manner she had arriv'd at Tangire, and presently did ac­company him to her Chamber. Never did any one pass in so short a time from an extream affliction to so great a joy: Ali Hamet, who thought that he had lost all, was so ravish'd to have found his fair Princess, who was more precious to him than all the Crowns on Earth, that he abandoned himself to the pleasure of re-seeing her again with the same transports as if he had had no loss: and Alzira, who had not dreaded Taffilet, but through the fears that his Arms should prove fatal to her Lover, [Page 138]was so satisfied with seeing him, that she thought not so much as to ask news of the Battel; imagining to have gained all, now that she had met again with her dear Ali Hamet. The Count Talbor, who took a particular delight to con­tribute to the good Fortune of those Illustrious Lovers, did pro­pose to the Prince the Espousing Alzira, without staying till his ill Fortune should once again take that charming Princess from him. Ali Hamet being convinc'd by such reasons as did so pleasingly flatter his Love, did resolve to propose it to Alzira. But when that he found himself near her, and that he made some reflexions on his misfortunes, he durst not propose any thing to her, and repented having had the thoughts of so do­ing, having much less trouble in bearing himself alone his own ill Fortune, than to share it with that amiable Princess. His courage [Page 139]would inspire him to attempt new things to re-gain his Estates, and his Love would make him find out a thousand difficulties of per­forming the design which he had of passing into Europe to ask for ayd. The Count Talbor, finding him in those resolutions, did ad­vise him to go to Gayland, who was retir'd to Algar with vast Riches, and did assure him, that if that Prince would but furnish him with a considerable Sum, he might ea­sily raise another Army, and hazard a second Battel against Taffilet. The Prince approving much this Counsel, set himself about the ex­ecuting of it; and for fear he should be molified with his Mistrisses Tears, he departed without taking leave of her. Gayland, who not­withstanding his great Riches, did already begin to grow weary of living in an obscure condition, did not spare any thing to forward Ali Hamet's Generous designs, and [Page 140]he was so well assisted, that in a short time he found himself at the Head of an Army, accompanied with divers Officers of Merit, which the Count Talbor gave to serve with him.

The Nobility of Fess, who could not brook the Violences and Scorns of Taffilet, sent up their prayers for Ali Hamet. Taffilet alone despising an Enemy whom he had already beaten, went against him at the head of his Army, where he had incorporated Bem­buca's Cavalry, which was still Commanded by Maucaden. Though that Ali Hamet had much the les­ser Number of Troops than his Enemy had, he expected him Manfully, with a resolution to van­quish or to die. Taffilet did Charge him with the confidence which is so common to Victors. But Ali Hamet's Trorps, animated by that. Princes example, who was in all places, did combat with great [Page 141]Valour, and Taffilet was beginning to fear the success of the Battle, when he caused his Body of reserve to advance, in which was Bembu­ca's Horse. Maucaden, fretted at Taffilet's Violences, and particu­at the wrongs which he had done his Sister, did exhort his Men to abandon that Tyrant, and take Ali Hamet's Party, who was of the Blood of the Cherifs, and conse­quently the true Successor to the Crown of Fess. He instantly did Charge with so much resolution those that would have opposed his designs, that the greatest part did follow him. Taffilet advertiz'd of this misfortune did despair of Victory, and thought no more but of saving part of his Men with re­treating. But Ali Hamet, who was desirous to put an end to the War, taking advantage of his Enemies disorder, did press him with so much Valour, that Taffilet was forced to change his mind, and to [Page 142]hazard all. There he was kill'd, performing of surprising actions, and Ali Hamet did gain a most signal Battel by his death, besides his fair Mistriss, and divers con­siderable Kingdoms. The Count Talbor, who had sent on the Coast of Fess a Yatch, to be informed of of the success of that great Day, did learn with all the imaginable joy, the rout and death of Taffilet. He carried these good news unto the Princess, who burning with impa­tiency of seeing her Father again, and of joying her Lover, did con­jure that trusty Friend not to retar'd her from that pleasure, and to send her back to Fess that very Day. The Count ravish'd to contribute to her satisfaction, Embarked her in a Yatch, and gave her one of his Re­lations to acconmpany her. Ali Ha­met, who was not sensible unto so many happy successes, but in rela­tion to his Mistriss, did send a Per­son of Trust to Count Talbor, to [Page 143]give him an account, and render'd himself at the nearest Port of Tan­gire, there to wait for news from Alzira, who was just Imbarking when that her Lover arriv'd there. It would be difficult to express the reciprocal joy which they had at the sight of one another. The re­membrance of their late disgraces did contribute also to make them relish with more delight the plea­sure which they had of being to­gether, and of thinking how worthy they were of one another. They came to Fess, where Ali Hamet, af­ter that he had Re-established Bem­buca on the Throne, gave his Hand to Alzira with all the satisfaction imaginable. Soon after, he sent Mag­nificent presents unto the Count Talbor, and did not forget any thing that could express his acknowledg­ments to so faithful a Friend.