IN the Isle of Cyprus there is a great City called FAMAGOS­TA, wherein dwelt a Rich Ci­tizen, descended of an Ancient and Renowned stock, whose name was Theodorus, unto whom his Progenitors had left so much Goods and Reve­nues, that through the abundance of Wealth, he esteemed himself mighty and puissant. He was of Age young, of Disposition lusty and retchless, and little considering the Frugality and thrifty sparing of his Ancestors, whereby they carefully augmented their goods and pos­sessions, which he without care enjoyed. So that his mind being wholly addicted unto honour, pastime, and worldly pleasure, he presumed to bear the countenance of an high and costly estate, by usual frequenting of Princes Courts, Iust­ings, & other such-like Martial games, by which means he soon wasted much of his goods and tre­sure. His friends being greatly displeased with such his outragious prodigality, determined to marry him unto a Wife; supposing thereby somewhat to alter his mind. Theodorus wil­lingly condescended to their desires: whereup­on [Page 2] they diligently searching to find out a com­ly and convenient Espouse for him, found at length in the City of Nicova (which is the Head City of the Isle of Cyprus, where there Kings commonly keep their Courts) a Noble and Rich Citizen which had a fair Daughter named Gratiana, whom he forthwith was con­tent to give in Marriage unto Theodorus, without any further inquiry what manner of man he was. And thereupon was the Maiden brought home unto him, only upon the great Fame of his Riches and Puissance; who was at her Comming entertained with a Costly and Sumptuous Banquet, as the manner is of the Rich, to shew at such times their Wealth and Magnificence.

After the Feast was ended, all things accord­ingly finished, and every Guest taking their leave were returned home, Theodorus taking his Espouse unto him, lived for a season friend­ly and vertuously with her; wherewith both she and her friends took great pleasure, thinking they had atchieved a very good deed, in so taming the wild Theodorus, by tying him to a Wife: but yet they considered not the property of Na­ture, which bendeth only to that which she is inclined unto. So in process of time, Gratiana became great with Child, and was delivered be­fore the year was fully compleat from the day o [...] the Wedding; whereof the friends of both par­ties were very glad. Then was the child christ­ned with the name of Fortunatus: And although [Page 3] Theodorus herewith rejoyced, yet ceased he not to follow his old Trade, in Iusting, keeping a great train of Men and Horses, and daily haun­ting of Princes Courts, not without intoller­able and excessive charges; insomuch that he be­gan to sell and morgage, now one piece of Land, and then another, leaving both Wife and Child unregarded. Then in Selling, Gaging, and Wasting, he continued so long till all was gone: and so fell into such extream poverty, that he was neither able to keep Man-servant nor Maiden: So the good Gratiana was of necessi­ty forced to dress her own Meat, and to wash her own Cloaths like a Hand-maid or poor slave. They on a time sitting together at a simple Dinner, pretending to make good chear if they had wherewithal, the Father beholding his Son, sighed from the bottom of his Heart: which when his Son perceived, who was then eighteen Years Old, and could Write and Read, simply (but was expert in Praying on the Lute, in Hunting and Hawking, which were his chief Pastimes) he said to his Father: Dear Father, what a [...]leth you? For I well perceive that whensoever you beho d me, you become sad, and shew an heavy Countenance: I pray you Father, have I by any means pro­voked you to be offended? tell me truly, and hide not your secret thought from me; for I am wholly determined to Accomplish your Will in reasonable Points. Then answered the Father, saying: My dear Son, the occa­sion [Page 4] of my grief cometh not by thee, neither may I blame any Creature therefore, but my self only, for the pinching penury and distress which now I sustain, have I my self caused: And therefore I call to mind the great Honour and Wealth that I lately enjoyed, and now am utterly deprived of; which my Ancestors have so carefully spared, as I also ought to have done, for the maintenance of our stock and progeny in Honour and Dignity, the which alas, I have altogether neglected: And when I call to mind how far unable I am to help and succour thee my only Child, this is the Vexa­tion and hearts grief that vexeth me both night and day. This moreover doubleth my Sor­rows, that all these my most familiar Compa­nions, to whom I so frankly imparted my goods, have now abandonned my Company, and that I am so little welcome unto them. To this answered Fortunatus, saying: Dearly be­loved Father, cast off your mourning, and take no such immoderate care for me; for I am young, strong, and in perfect health, I will tra [...]el into far and unknown Countries to serve. In the World by hardy adventuring, there hap­peneth to many good chance and fortune, where­of I doubt not but by the help of God, some part shall fall to my Lot. As for you Father, you have business of the Kings, him may you serve, and it is not like that he will suffer you or my Mother long to continue in any great want. Leave off therefore (I say again) these [Page 5] tears on my behalf: For I have not been so ill trained up (I thank God and you for it) but I can shift for my self. With this went Fortu­natus out of the house with a Hawk on his Fist, toward the Sea-coast, pondering with himself what he might best do, to absent himself from his Fathers sight, that he might be no more grieved thereby. As he thus walked up and down by the Sea-side, he saw a Galley of Venice coming from Jerusalem; wherein was an Earl of Flanders, who had lost two of his Men by the way. But forasmuch as the Earl had no business with the King, and that the Patron of the Galley caused a Sign to be given by the sound of a Trumpet, that every one should speedily come aboard the Ship, the Earl with many other Gentlemen came forthwith into the Galley: Which Fortunatus seeing, he thought in his mind: Would God I might be one of this great Lords men, to accompa­ny him into his Country, that I might be rid of my Country Cyprus. With that he stepped boldly to the Earl, making low obeisance and courtesie; (whereby the Earl well perceived that he was no Rustical Clown;) And there­withal said: Gracious Lord, I under­stand your Honour hath lost two of your Men, and therefore pleaseth you now to entertain one? Then asked the Earl: What canst thou do? He answered, I can Hunt and Hawk, and do all that pertaineth thereto: I have also some skill in riding and Feats of Arms. To this, [Page 6] said the Earl, thou shouldst like me well: but to my Country we have a long and tedious journey, wherefore I suppose thou wauldst be loth to travel so far. Not so, my Lord said For­tunatus, that shall be to me no let at all, but I would willingly adventure the travel, though it were four times as far. Then demanded the Earl, sa [...]ing: What Wages shall I give thee? Fortunatus answered, I require no wages, (if it so like your honour) but to be rewarded ac­cording to my deserts These words of the young man liked the Earl very well, saying unto him: The Galley forthwith shall be lanched from the shore, art thou therefore ready to depart with us? He answered, When it pleaseth you my Lord. And so casting the Hawk that he had upon his fist up into the Ayr, departed without bles­sing of Father or Mother with the Earl, and became his man, carrying with him very simple furniture, and little or no money in his Purse. So hoi [...]ing up their Sail, in short time they luc­kely arrived at Venice.

ANd when they were come to Venice, for­asmuch as before in passing by it, he had seen all the Royalties of that City, he stayed not long there, but made all speed possible to [...]e­turn [Page 7]

again into his own Country, to see his Friends: For he was determined presently at his return to be Wedded to the Daughter of the Duke of Cleave, which was a Fair and Gracious Lady, the Marriage being appoint­ed before his Departure: For which cause most likely, he made the more hast. Before they Departed, Fortunatus bought for his Lord at Venice, very Costly Iewels, and Gar­ments of Velvet, Silk, and Cloath of Gold, and whatsoever else was requisite for the Wedding. For although he had many Men, yet there was none of them that could speak the Italian Tongue, but Fortunatus only, who was very expert to Buy and Sell, and [Page 8] therefore was in great estimation and favour with the Earl.

Fortunatus perceiving his Lords good affection towards him, became the more serviceable, ap­plying himself to be always in the Evening the last, and in the morning the first in his Lords presence. Now the Earl had bought many Horses for his servants, of the which some were haply more fair to the eye, than fit for any good purpose: He therefore would have them must­red before him, and so distributed them among his men, giving to Fortunatus one next the best; which grieved much the other Servants, and thereupon they envyed him, saying among themselves: What Devil hath sent this Ita­lian to put us out of conceit and credit? How­beit it lay not in their power to stay him from riding with the Earl, neither could they blame him in any point.

The Earl was now returned home joyfully, and at his coming was received of his Subjects most honourably; for he was both affable, just, and vertuous, and so the better beloved of his subjects, for that he loved them, and was careful for their Estate.

The Nobles likewise, and other his friendly neighbors came together to welcome him, thank­ing God for his prosperous journey: & before all other matters they took special care for the pre­sent accomplishing of the wedding, which pleas­ed him very well: So that with full consent he was Espoused with all convenient speed un­to [Page 9] the Duke of Cleave his Daughter. For this Wedding was made great preparation, and thither did resort many Lords and great Estates: where many valiant Knights and Gentlemen in gorgeous attire, mounted on barbed Stéeds, at the Tilts and Turney, and other such feats of Chivalry, extended their manly force before the fair and Noble Ladies there present. And although there were assem­bled at that Wedding no small number of pro­per and comely Servitors, attending on the [...]hief Estates, yet there was none of them all whose service and behaviour was more com­mended than the service of Fortunatus: where­upon divers demanding of the Earl where he [...]ad gotten him, he declared unto them, that he [...]y Fortune chanced on him in the way coming [...]rom Jerusalem: and told them moreover, that [...]e was so expert in Hunting and Hawking, [...]hat neither Wild Beast of the Field, nor Fowl of the Air might hardly escape him: Be­ [...]des that also he especially commended him [...]or his diligent and pliable service, and for [...]hat he could so circumspectly apply and frame [...]imself to all Estates. By means of which com­mendation of his Lord, he had many gifts gi­ [...]en him of Noble-men and women.

AFter that the Lords and Nobles had [...] nished their tryumphs and martial game [...] the Duke of Cleve and the Bridegroom (t [...] Earl of Flanders) agreed that their Servito [...] and retinues should likewise have their pasti [...] and try Masteries, in justing for two Iewel [...] esteemed to the value of an hundred Crown [...] and he that might obtain the prize should ha [...] one of them. Of this were all the servants gl [...] and every man put forth himself to do his be [...] So it befel that one of the Duke of Burgun [...] [Page 11] his servants had one of the Iewels on the one side, and Fortunatus won the other on the con­trary part; which misliked the most part of the servitors, and thereupon they intreated Timothy the Duke of Burgundies man, making many fair promises to recompence him with the like de­serts, if he would undertake to challenge For­tunatus to try in justing who should have both the Iewels. Timothy having no power to deny the request of so many good fellows, made open challenge unto Fortunatus before the Ladies and Gentlewomen to just with him, and that whosoever obtained the prize, should posess both the Iewels. When Fortunatus heard that, he took no great deliberation, but accepted the chal­lenge with a valiant courage. This being nois­ed among the Lords, they gladly drew together to see this bickering. The challenger & defender each of them well appointed came to the Tilt­yard, where they encountred with a manly and violent courage, being on either part stirred with a fervent desire both of lucre and fame. At the fourth course Fortunatus hoised Timothy from his Horse the space of a Spears length: wherewith he won the victory, and obtained the Iewels, esteemed more worth than two hun­dred Crowns. By this was the envy of his fel­low-servants more vehemently increased, but the Earl himself rejoyced greatly, that one of his retinue had so victoriously won the chief Prize. Howbeit he understood not the Grudge and Malice that his men had against [Page 12] Fortunatus, neither durst any man disclose it unto him.

Among the Earls Servants there was one, an old wise fellow, named Robert, who offered himself to practise a cast of knavery in the be­half of all his fellows, promising unto them, that if they would give unto him ten Crowns in ready money, he would bring to pass that the Italian should depart of his own accord, without taking leave of his Lord, or of any o­ther, and that none thereof should be suspected. Then said his fellows, If thou canst do as thou hast said, why dost thou linger any stay to at­tempt the same? He answered, Soft a while, for I cannot do it without present money; but if every one of you will give me half a Crown, I will repay unto each of you a whole Crown, if I work not this feat according as I have said. They were all willing to grant to his request, so that they speedily collected this sum of fifteen Crowns, and gave them to Robert, who willed them to speak no more unto him concerning that matter, and that every one should behave himself according as he had done before. From henceforth this Robert became a daily compa­nion unto Fortunatus, shewing himself very friendly unto him, inveagling him with plea­sant communication, and recounting of things done in the Countrey, which was to Fortuna­tus delectable. He enured and enticed him to the company and haunt of fair women, where he of his proper charges, would always send [Page 13] for Wine and other Banquetting Iunquets, meet for such company. Robert also would col­logne with him, praising his Riches, Nobility, and valiant courage, which Fortunatus could well endure. And when he would always offer his money also for their expences, Robert would not suffer him to pay any part; saying, that he loved him better than any of his bre­thren, and therefore thought all too little that was bestowed on him. This Company of good fellowship continued so long, that their fellows were therewith grieved: saying one to another, Doth Robert mean to drive away Fortunatus with such a life? It is rather to be supposed that if he were in Cyprus again, and wist to have such pleasant entertainment, he would think it long ere he were returned thither: surely he doth not fulfil his promise, and therefore it is meet that we have our money again. Robert being advertised thereof, scoffed thus at his fel­lows, saying, Would they have me make better chear with their money than I have done? Not­withstanding at the last, when the money was near hand spent, on an evening when the Earl and his Wife were gone to rest, cometh Ro­bert to Fortunatus, into his Chamber secretly, and said, Even now hath the Master Chancellor told me a secret, for he is my singular good friend, and did earnestly forbid me upon pain to lose his friendship, that I should disclose it to no man; but yet I cannot for the friendship that is between us, conceal [Page 14] this thing from thee, which so nearly toucheth thine estate. Thus stands the cause (as thou knowest) our Lord hath a fair woman to Wife, and hath many fair Gentlewomen with her: He hath of late conceived a durable Fantasie, and is become very jealous in the behalf of his Espouse, and the other Gentlewomen, fearing lest his young Chamberlains might be on them enamoured, and so provoked to Carnal Lust; and although he dare repose such confidence in them, that they would consent to no dishonesty, yet can he not well put out of his mind what a blind thing Love is, and when it is once kindled, how hardly it is quenched, and that when true Lovers be linked with like Affections, nothing may separate them but only Death. To prevent this, he is counselled, yea, and ful [...]y minded, on the morrow to ride to Lausan, where he must wage Law with an Earl concerning certain Money and Land, and meaneth to come thi­ther stately furnished with all his Men about him, because he knoweth that the Earl of St. Paul his adversary, will be there also with no small company, gorgeously appointed. And whilest he remaineth there, he will cause the four Chamberlains to be Gelded whether they will or not, and then set them in their Office as before. He will also shew the matter unto his Wife, forbidding her to disclose it unto any person. Howbeit he knoweth well that she cannot long conceal it from her waiting Gen­tlewomen, who will most likely utter it further [Page 15] unto others, so shall it pass from one to ano­ther until it be spread all abroad. And by this means he pretendeth to prevent all Mischief that eft-soons might chance among you through Amorous Love; for he considereth that no woman regardeth a gelded man. When For­tunatus had heard this report, he was therewith amazed; and first of all asked him whether he knew any secret way whereby he might convey himself with speed out of the City? saying, I will not in any case abide the presence of my Lord, though he would give me all his Lands; no, though he would make me King of Eng­land, would I serve him any longer: I pray thée therefore said Fortunatus help me, my good friend Robert, and give me some counsel how I may speedily depart. Robert answered, saying; Thou knowest all the Gates of the City be now shut, and none can issue out or in, until to morrow when the Bell warneth to service, and then is the Cow-gate opened. But my beloved Fortunatus, if I my self were in your case, I would not greatly refuse it, considering the great Love and Affection that thy Lord hath conceived toward thee, whereby thou art like to come to great preferment, Then said Fortu­natus, I would rather become a begger, to wan­der as a vagabond from place to place, than to endure such a shame and villany. Then spake Robert again, saying, I am now sorry that ever I advertised thee of these things, sithence thou wilt so depart: For I trust we should have lived [Page 16] together in friendly amity, as loving brethren, and to have passed our time joyfully, one de­lighting in the other. But sithence thou wilt by no means here longer remain, let me yet be ad­vertised by Letters from thee, where thou art become, that when our Lord shall be sufficient­ly provided of gelded men to his Chamber­lains, I may write to thee, that thou mayst re­pair hither again: for I doubt not but at any time thou shalt have entertainment of the Earl: to this answered Fortunatus, saying, You shall little need either to write or send unto me, for so long as I live I mean not to come to this court any more. And therefore I instantly re­quire thee not to disclose my departure, until I have been three days away: which thing Robert promised him, and so he took his leave of him, making semblance as though he were very sorry: Thus this traiterous Judas wrought this knavish device. It was about midnight when every one was at rest, but Fortunatus head was full of bées, so that every hour séemed unto him three: for he feared lest the Earl should understand of his departure, and so cause him to be stayed. So passing all the night in fear and grief, at the break of day he took his journey on Horse-back with Hounds following him as though he had pretended to Hunt, and rode so swiftly, that if one of his eyes had fallen out of his head he would scantly have stayed to take [...] up.

WHen Fortunatus had ridden ten miles, he bought another horse, and sent back a­gain unto the Earl, his Horse and his Hounds, that he might have no occasion to pursue after him. When the Earl understood that Fortuna­tus had departed without leave, forasmuch as he knew of no cause whereat he might be of­fended, neither had paid him his wages, he greatly marvelled, and thereupon demanded of all his servants generally and particularly, whether they knew any occasion of his depart­ing. They all denyed that they wist thereof, and took their Oaths that they had not by any means to their knowledge grieved him. Then went the Earl to the Ladies & Gentlewomen, requiring likewise of them, whether they had moved him to any displeasure, or whether they misdeemed any cause of his going away with­out leave. The Countess and all the other Gentlewomen answered, that they wist not of any thing that might offend him either by word or deed: but that in the Evening before his departure he was exceeding merry and pleasant: reporting unto them of the attire of Women, and of many other Vsages and Customes of his Country, and that in such corrupt language, as we could not refrain from Laughing, and he himself Laughing [Page 18] with us also; and so with no worse countenance he left our company. Then said the Earl, al­though the cause of his flight be now concealed from me, I doubt not but hereafter I shall be advertised thereof: and verily if I shall know that any of mine was the occasion of it, I shall be sharply revenged on him; for I know that Fortunatus is not fled without some great cause. I am sure that he hath gotten about 500 Crowns whilst he hath been here: and I had thought he would not have departed hence du­ring his live. But now I perceive well he is not minded to return, seeing he hath taken with him all his Iewels and his Substance.

When Robert perceived that his Lord was so grieved for Fortunatus, great fear fell on him, for he dreaded lest any of his fellows should bewray him, that he was weined away by his procurement: whereupon he went to every one particularly, requiring them not to disclose his doings, which they faithfully promised him; and were very instant to know by what means he brought his purpose so subtilly to pass, and that he was so suddenly fled away. At the length to one that was most in his fa­vour, and was more importunate than the rest, he told that Fortunatus had shewed him the state of his Father, how he was become po [...] and served in the King of Cyprus Court: Where­upon said Robert, I have shewed him that a Post was passed this way from the King of Cyprus, towards the King of England, to [Page 19] advertise him of the King of Cyprus death, for they were near of Kindred; which Post report­ed unto me, that the King had exalted the state of Theodorus his Father, and had given him the Earldom of Anclemus de Teraceno, who died without any Heir, by reason whereof, the Earldom was fallen into the Kings hands; for which Theodorus making the first suit obtained it, and both he and his Heirs were therein con­firmed by his Letters Patents. When I had told him, he scarcely believed me: and there­upon said, I would my Father had sped no worse, notwithstanding upon this only he is departed. When the other of his fellows heard this, they said among themselves, how uncir­cumspect was Fortunatus? For if such good for­tune chanceing unto him, he had advertised our Earl thereof, doubtless he would have wor­shipfully set him forth, with certain of us to accompany him, and so should he have been ho­nourably received into his own Country, and also still have retained the favour and friend­ship of his Lord and Master.

NOw leave we the Earl of Flanders with his men, who knew little how Robert had deceived Fortunatus with a devised lie: howbeit [Page 20] they heard afterwards that Fortunatus did well. Who when he had sent back his Lords horse, yet fearing least he should be pursued, travelled with all speed possible, till he come to Calis, where he took shipping, and yet thought himself scantly out of danger even in the midst of the Seas, the fear of gelding so sore-troubled his Conscience. When he was arrived in England, setting all fear aside, he took courage again and came to London, which is a great and goodly City, frequented of Merchants from all Countreys of Europe. Thither at his arrival was come a Ship from Cyprus, freighted with costly wares, the factors whereof were two young Merchants, who had in Cy­prus rich parents: and this being the first jour­ney that ever they undertook, were very unex­pert how to behave themselves in strange coun­treys, but only by their Fathers instructions. When their ships therefore were unloaden, their Wares sold, great sums of Money re­ceived, and the custome discharged, they were lusty and jocund, as such youths commonly be, which have not been accustomed to the hand­ling and use of great treasure. Into the company of these young men chanced Fortunatus, with whom he fell in acquaintance, shewing each o­ther friendly countenance in a strange country. These three hapned moreover into a rout of o­ther roitous Roisters, and usually frequented with them, by whom they were soon allured to the haunt of Harlots, Gameing, and other [Page 21] riotous demeanour: so that if one had gotten a fair woman, the other would assay to get a fairer, whatsoever it cost him: this life led they the space of half a year, till their money was so wasted, that it was time to look to themselves.

FOrtunatus had the least spring, so that his Well was soonest emptied: and the others also were drawn almost dry, and had consumed all that they received of their wares, on sum­ptuous banquets and fair women: and then was all the hot love soon quenched with a cold purse, though they perswaded themselves otherwise, and had often heard that it was scoffingly said unto them, go and fetch more money. In the mean while were the other Merchants of Cy­prus ready to repair homewards, and the Ma­ster of the Ship gave warning unto the young men to be in a readiness, who went forth­with to their Lodging, to make their ac­counts with heavy hearts, finding that they had received great sums of money: but that which they should have bestowed in Cloth, Wool, Tin, Lead, and other Merchandise, they had consumed on English Beer, Deli­cate Fare, and Womens Flesh. And not­withstanding, though they were now but bare Merchants, yet took they Ship with [Page 22] the rest; and came home without Wares. But how they were entertained of their Father at their return, let them see thereto.

VVHen Fortunatus was now also clean money-less, he bethought himse f that if he might get two or three Crowns, he would go into France, there to get him a Master: so went he to his Love, requiring her to lend him a Rival or xv. shillings, saying, that he would go into Flanders to his Vncle, to fetch 400 Crowns, which he had in his custody, before my departure said he, I would fain make good chear with thee. She coldly answered, saying, Goest thou to fetch Money? God speed thee well, so it be not to my hinderance: whereby he perceived that he had but a cold suit, to wait for money at her hands: and then too late, thought thus in his mind: If I had my mo­ney again, I would be more wary on whom I bestowed it: and yet once more tryed her, say­ing, My best Beloved, send for some Wine, and let us yet drink once together e're we de­part. Whereupon she said to her Maid, go and fetch him a pint of Beer, and let the Ass drink e're he go: This was the thin thanks that a har­lot rendred him for his costly courtesie. Fortu­natus [Page 23] being thus abandoned, thought with him­self, I must needs serve until I have gained two or three Crowns. So he went to Lombard-street, where was great resort, enquiring who was destitute of a Servant? There was a rich Merchant of Florence, that retained many Servants, who he set at work in his Traffick, of him was Fortunatus hired for two Crowns a Month, which liked him well. Being Entertained, he was brought Home to his Master, named Jeronimus Roberti, whom he served at the Table very handsomly; whereby he perceived that Fortunatus had been well trained up in civil company: so that in process of time, he sent him to Bestow the Mer­chandize into the Ships, and to receive other that came into the Realm, in which Affairs he behaved himself very well. About the time when Fortunatus served Jeronimus Roberti, there was a Florentine named Andrew, the Son of a rich Merchant, to whom his Father had given much Goods, and sent him there­withal to Bruges in Flanders, which he un­thriftily in short time consumed: And being therewith not satisfied, took up also more Money by Bills of Exchange, making his Father believe that he would send him ma­ny Rich Merchandizes. This he used so long, till his Father was able to disburst no more Money, but waited still to receive the Wares which he looked for from his Son, which are yet to come. When he un­thrifty [Page 24] Varlet had consumed all, and lost his credit, so that no man would lend, nor give, nor trust him for any more, he pretended to re­turn again into Florence, to spie out there some old Widow whom he might abuse. As he tra­velled home, he came into a Town of France called Turn, where there lay in Prison a Rich Gentleman of England, a Citizen of London, which thing when his Host had declared unto him, he asked if he might speak with the Pri­soner. The Host said, I will bring you thither, but he is so fast imprisoned, that it is pittiful to behold. When Andrew came to the Prisoner he spake good English: whereof the Prisoner was glad, asking him whether he knew one Jeronimus Roberti at London: He answered, I know him right well, and he is my good friend. Then answered the Prisoner; Good Andrew, would God I might intreat thee to go to Lon­don, and require Jeronimus Roberti to do his best that I may be delivered; he is my near acquain­tance, and knoweth my ability; whatsoever he shall lay out for me, I shall restore it to him in threefold. For if thou wouldest do this diligent­ly in my behalf, I will give thee for thy pains five hundred Crowns, and also procure thee a good Office. Thou shalt shew my friends also, that thou hast spoken with me, and request them to become sureties for me to Jero [...]imus. Andrew made a promise to the Prisoner to deal truly in the matter, and so travelled towards London; where de [...]ing the matter to Jeronimus Ro­berty, [Page 25] he was well contented, so that he might have for one Crown thrée. And although he knew the same Andrew to be a lewd fellow, nevertheless he said unto him, go to his friends, and try if thou canst in the Kings Court pro­vide sureties for me, and then will I be ready to disburst the money. Andrew went forth to search the Prisoners friends, to whom he declared how the case stood with him, and that he lay in prison fast bound. His friends séem­ed little to regard his misery, but willed him to go to the King or his Counsel, and shew them thereof, for he went on the Kings service. When he came to the Court, and could have no redress in the matter, he heard say the King of England had espoused his Daughter to the Duke of Burgundy, and that thither he meant presently to send certain Iewels of great price, the carriage whereof he had committed to a certain Gentleman which had Wife and Chil­dren resident in London.

As Andrew understood in the Court that such sumptuous Iewels was committed to such a Gentleman, he inchroached into his company, saying, That he was certified that the King would send certain costly Iewels to the Duke of Burgundy by him: wherefore he prayed him friendly if it were Lawful that he would permit him to sée them: For, said he, I am a Ieweller also; and hearing at Florence that the King made enquiry for the most expert in our [Page 26] faculty, I have travelled so far, in hope the King would buy some of me. The plain-mean­ing Gentleman said unto him, stay here a while till I be dispatched, and then shall you go with me, where I will shew them unto you. Anon after he came again to Andrew and took him home to his House, being then Dinner-time: Wherefore he said, we will first Dine, lest my Wife be displeased. So receiving of him Courteous Entertainment, when Dinner was done, he carried him to his Chamber, and there opening a fair Ar­mory, brought out of it a Coffer, wherein were the Iewels which he willee him to view at his pleasure. The Iewels were very pre­cious, amounting to the valud of threescore Thousand Crowns, and the more one beheld them, the fairer they seemed. Andrew prais­ed them greatly, and said, I have yet some, that if they were as well set as these be, would no doubt disgrace some of these. The Gen­tleman liked this well, thinking with himself, if he have so costly Iewels, the King will yet surely bestow more money. Andrew said, to morrow shall you dine with me, in Jeronimus Roberty his house, where I will shew you my Iewels. This liked the Gentleman well. An­drew went incontinently to Jeronimus Roberti, and said, I have found out a man in the Court, who I trust will assist me to deliver the Priso­ner, and that you should have good suretiship in the Kings custom-house. That liked Jeronimus [Page 27] well. Andrew said moreover, I pray you ap­point the dinner to morrow somewhat the cost­lier, for I shall bring him with me to dine with us. The next day brought Andrew the Man with him; but before they sat down at the board, he privily warned Jeronimus, that he should not find much talk of the Prisoner, for the matter must be secretly conveyed. They sat down to their meat and were merry, and lingred some­what long, but Jeronimus rose from the board, and went into his study: at the last said Andrew to the Gentleman, come you up with me into my Chamber, and I will shew you my Iewels. So they went up together into a Chamber that was over the Hall where whey dined, and there Andrew making an offer, as though he would have opened a great Coffer, drew his Knife privily, and sticked the Gentleman that he sunk down, and therewith stepped unto him and cut his throat. That done, he took from his thumb a gold King, wherein his Seal was gra­ven, and took his Keys from his girdle, and so ran swiftly to the Gentlemans House, and said to his Wife, Mistris, your husband hath sent me unto you, willing you to send him the Iewels which he shewed me yesterday, and for a token of truth doth he send you here his King and the Keys of his Armory. The Woman be­lieving his words, searched narrowly, but found not the Iewels in none of the three Armories. Then gave she him the Keys again, and said; Go and shew him that we [Page 28] can find none, let him come himself and fetch them where they lie. Andrew being sore afraid that he had committed so shameful a murther, and yet was fustrate of his purpose, he purpos­ed to flie incontinently. In the mean while that he went to the Gentlemans house, the blood soaked down thorow the boards into the Hall, which when Jeronimus espied, he asking his man from whence came that blood, who ran up to sée, and sound the good Gentleman slain. Whereat they were sore astonied, and wist not for fear what to do.

AS they stood thus amazed, came the Var­let Andrew, on whom they all cried, say­ing, What hast thou done in murthering this man? He answered; The naughty Knave would have murthered me, hoping to have found cost­ly Iewels about me, and therefore I had lither kill than be killed. Be still therefore and make no out-cry, I will cast the carcass into the pri­vy, and if any enquiry be made for him, say ye, soon after dinner he departed, and since that we saw him not. So when he had conveyed the dead body into the privy, he hasted night and day to avoid the Country, fearing to stay any where lest he should be pursued, and so suffer some rigorous death for his hainous fact, yea when he was fled as far as Venice: wherefore he there offered himself to be a Rower in a Galley that went to Alexandria. Where as soon as he was arrived, he renounced the Chri­stian faith, and thereupon was the better-estéem­ed, and safe from the danger of the murther, although he had slain an hundred Christians. The same day that the murther was commit­ted, came Fortunatus home to London, from Sandwich, where he had laden certain Wares of his Masters into a ship. And when he perceiv­ed that he was not so joyfully welcome as he was wont, and that his Master, his companions, and the rest of the houshold were not so merry as he had left them, he mused greatly, and thereupon demanded of the chief Maiden, what had chanced in his absence, that they all [Page 30] shewed such heavy countenance. The discreet housewife which her Master loved well, said un­to him, be not thou troubled Fortunatus, for our Master hath received Letters from Flo­rence, that one of his dear Friends is dead, whom he so intirely loved as his own Brother? howbeit he was not so near of Kin, that it should be requisite to wear Mourning Gar­ments for him. Fortunatus hearing this, made no more ado, but seemed also to be sorry with them. Now the Gentlemans Wife forasmuch as her Husband came not home, neither sent any word to shew the cause of that stay, mar­velled much, and that night quieted her self: But in the morning speedily she sent one of her friends to the Court to enquire whether her Husband were there, or that the King had sent him any other way. When the Kings Counsel heard that enquiry was made for him, they wondred that he appeared not in the Court. And when the King also was cer­tified hereof, he commanded a Messenger forth­with to go to his house, and to see whether he were there, and had the Iewels about him. For the King somewhat misdeemed of the matter, fearing lest peradventure he were gone clean away with the Iewels: and though he supposed him to be an Honest man, yet thought he it not unlikely that he might be tempted with the great value of his Charge. So when every man had asked each of other, and no man could give certain resolution [Page 31] where that Gentleman was become, the King willed that his House should be incontinent­ly searched for the Iewels: For although he loved the Gentleman well, yet enquired he more earnestly for the Iewels, than for the Man. When the Woman was asked for her Husband and for the Iewels, and what he said at his departure? She answering, said, It is now the third day since I saw him, and when he departed, he told me he went to Dine with one of F [...]orence, and in the after noon he sent one unto me with his Signet and his Keys, willing me to send him the Iewels. The Messenger moreover signified unto me, that he was in the House of Jeronimus Roberti, where were (as he said) many Iewels also, and that he would confer the one sort with the o­ther. So I led him into the Chamber, and with those Keys opened the Armory, but the Iewels could we by no means find, so that the man returned unwillingly without them. Then demanded they of her, whether he had any several places of custody? She answered: none: For all the chiefest things whereof he maketh account, as Déeds, Letters, Seals, and such like, doth he lay up in the Armony. The Iewels were once there also, but none at that time, for if they had, I would have sent them unto him. The searchers hearing this, brake up all the Coffers, Chests, and Cupboards in the house, and yet the Iewels could they not find: whereat the Kings Messengers were greatly [Page 32] astonied, and the Gentlewoman exceedingly amazed to sée her house so misused. When this was told the King, it grieved him more for the Iewels, than for the money that was be­stowed on them; For that although he had money enough at will, yet he could not have the like Iewels at his pleasure. The King and his Counsel being in this perplexity, wist not what was best to do, but in the end concluded to apprehend Jeronimus Roberti with all his Family, that they should give an account what was become of the man; which was so done the fifh day after the Gentleman was mur­thered. So the Sheriff waiting till suppertime, entred the house, where he found them all together: Namely, the two Masters, the two Servants of Accounts, a Cook, a Horse-kéeper, two Maidens, and Fortunatus. So that there were in the whole nine Persons, which were all brought to Prison, and placed every one apart from the other, and examined whether the two men were become? They an­swered all alike, that presently after Dinner they went their way, and sithence that they never saw nor heard of them. But the Sheriff not therewith content, took all the keys of the House, and narrowly searched the Stables, Cellers, and Ware-houses, where they might have buried the man, and yet found him not. But as they were departing, one amongst the Searchers, who had a burning Torch in his hand, setting therewithal on fire a handful of [Page 33] straw, cast it into the privy, and so lookfng down, espied the dead body with the Legs up­ward; and therewith cried, Alas for pitty the man lyeth here murthered in the privy. Then drew they him out, being filthy and loathsom, and laid him openly before Jeronimus Roberty his door. When the Citizens of London under­stood of this hainous murther, they made such an outcry upon the Florentines and Lumbards, that they were fain to keep them close in their Houses, lest if they were séen abroad, they should be beaten down by the people.

This tydings was spéedily brought to the King, who commanded to rack the Master and all the rest, whereby the Truth might be boulted out, and that their confessions should be severally written, and especially concerning the Iewels. So the Executioner first racked Jeronimus very grievously, enticing him therewithal, to manifest who committed the murther, and where the Iewels were bestowed? Jeronimus perceiving by the extream pain he was put to, that the King and his Officers had intelligence of the murther committed in the House, without his knowledge or consent, therefore he was excéeding sorry. And when he saw there was no remedy but patience, he declared how every thing had happened, shew­ing that one Andrew had required him to pre­pare a costly dinner, signifying that he should bring a Gentleman to dinner with him, whom he had procured to assist him to deliver a Pri­soner [Page 34] that was in Turn in France, which thing (said he) I did for the honour of the King, and the whole Realm, neither wist I of any thing else. Now when dinner was done, I took no regard of them, but went to my study to write; and when I had done, coming forth again, I espied blood dropping from the Chamber above, into the Hall; whereat I being astonied, sent my servant to see what it should be, who shewed me as it was. And as it happened, at that very instant came in this Varlet Andrew, to whose charge I laid this murder, who answered, say­ing, the other would have murthered me, but by Gods help I prevented his pretence, and flew him, and so cast him into the Privy: and therewith he suddenly fled, and where he is be­come I wot not. The very same in every re­spect did all the other affirm, when they were all racked. But Fortunatus confessed nothing, though he were racked likewise; for he was not in the house when this mischief betided, and therefore was clean ignorant of the matter.

VVHen as by all the policies and extre­mities they had tried, no farther knowledge could be had, the King wrathfully incensed with anger, caused them all to be [Page 35]

hanged on a new pair of Gallows, & their dead bodies to be fa [...]ned thereto with Iron chains. And when as they orderly one after another suffered execution, there remained only as yet alive Fortunatus and the Cook. And when For­tunatus was now in this perplexity, not know­ing otherwise but that he should be hanged also; he thought with himself, would God I had continued with my Master the Earl, and suf­fered my self patiently to be gelded, then had I not come to this loathsome and vile death. When the Cook (who was an English man) last of all saw Fortunatus should be executed, he cried with a loud voice, and declared before all the [Page 36] people, that Fortunatus was altogether inno­cent, and knowing nothing of the matter. Whereupon by great entreaty, and that he was no Florentine, and also unguilty, the Sheriff said unto him, get thée quickly hence, for if thou be found by the way, the women will sure­ly kill thée. So gave he certain men charge to convey him over the water, and so safe conduct him unto the Sea-side.

When Jeronimus with his family were thus dispatched, the King permitted his house to be spoiled: Howbeit the Officers had feathered their nest with the best before. When the Flo­rentines and Lumbards heard say that such ha­vock was made of Jeronimus goods, they were sore afraid both of their lives and goods, though they were in nothing guilty: Wherefore they collected among them a great sum of Money, which they sent unto the King, to purchase his good will for their safeguard. The King being much moved with pitty, granted them license to occupy and traffick as they did before.

AFter all things in this sort finished, it be­hoved the King notwithstanding to make farther enquiry for the Iewels, on the which as he had bestowed much money before, so on condi­tion [Page 37] he might possess them again, he would be content to have paid for them the second time. Wherefore he caused to be published, that who could bring the first tydings of them, should for a reward have five hundred marks: This was also proclaimed in other Nations, and Letters were written to many Princes and Lords of strange Countries, that if any came to sell such Iewels, they should be staid, and tydings sent thereof: Howbeit there was no news heard of them, although every man would gladly have done therein what lay in his power, only to have gained the reward.

Thus passed the time, till the Gentlewoman did Solemnize the Funeral Exequies of her Husband at the months end. And when the time of Chief Mourning was over-passed, invited her Play-fellows, Gossips, and Neighbours to make good chear with her; Amongst whom was one that lately also had lost her Husband, who said, If you will fol­low my Advice, I will teach you how you shall soon forget the Death of your Husband. Make your bed in another Chamber: or if you list not so to do, remove it from one place to another, and when you go to bed, call to your mind some lusty Young man, whom you would wish to be your Husband, and say to your self, the Dead with the Dead, and the Living with the Living; for so did I af­ter my Husbands death. Then said the Gen­tlewoman, Alas good Play-fellow, but I [Page 38] loved my Husband so well, and with so good affection, that I cannot forget him so soon. Howbeit, earnestly imprinted the words in her mind: And so soon as the Company was gone, she began to remove the bedsteds, chests, and Coffers, so that unawares by one of the beds-feet she found a little coffer wherein were the Iewels: which the Gentlewoman well knowing, set aside for a while, and neverthe­less continued her moving till she had done. After that she sent for one of her Kinsmen, to whom she declared that she had found the Kings Iewels by chance, and that if she had not re­moved the Bed, they might have layen long enough there unknown, for that none would have sought in such a place for them. So she required his Advice how she might bestow them. Who hearing that the Iewels were luckly found, greatly rejoyced, and said to her: If you desire my counsel in this case, and will accept well thereof, I would wish you thus to do: Take the Iewels, and I will go with you to make means to speak with the King himself, and to deliver the Iewels into his own hands, and also you shall shew him the plain truth, by what chance you found them, referring to his courtesie what reward he will give you; for if the Iewels should be closely imbeseled from the King, it behoveth to carry them into a strange Country to be sold, where I warrant you he will lay privy wait if any such be offered to the Iewellers, and [Page 39] then the King being advertised thereof, all them that have had to do with them, might lose both Body and Goods, and the Iewels notwithstanding should be restored to him a­gain.

This Counsel liked the Woman very well, and so decking her self comely in Widows at­tire, went with her kinsman to the Court, there making earnest suit to speak with the King himself. The King being advertised thereof, she was admitted in his presence in the Cham­ber of State. When she came before the King, she humbly on her knees said; Most gracious Lord, I your poor Hand-maid, am come to signifie unto your Majesty, that the Iewels which were committed unto my Husband your servant, to be delivered unto the Dutches of Burgundy, are found this day under a Bed­sted, as I by chance removed my Bed, and so presently with all speed I have made hast to present the same unto your Majesty. The King forthwith opened the Coffer, and found all the Iewels as they ought to be, whereof he was exceeding glad, and so delivered them into the Iewel-house to be kept. The King also conceived very well of her diligence, for that she would not hazard them on the credit of any other, but delivered them with her own hands: And forasmuch also as through occasion of the Iewels she had lost her Husband, he thought in reason that she should by some means or other be recompenced with a special reward, [Page 40] whereby her sorrow might be somewhat dimi­nished: wherefore he caused a certain lusty and couragious Young Gentleman of the Court to be called unto him, to whom he said, I will now request of thee a thing, which I trust thou wilt not deny me. The young Gen­tleman answered, saying, Gracious Lord, you shall not use such entreaty, but command me what liketh you, and I will be obedient. With that the King forthwith sent for a Chaplain, and even in his presence did he marry these two together, and bestowed on them rich gifts, who lived joyfully one with the other. The Gentle­woman anon after went to her Play-fellow and thanked her greatly for the councel which she gave her to remove her bedsted, which, said she, if I had not done, the King had not enjoyed his Iewels again, neither had I gotten such a fair and lusty young man to my Husband. There­fore I perceive it is good sometimes to follow a friends advice.

NOw return we to shew how Fortunatus fared, sithence he had escaped hanging: for whereas at his departure he was destitute of money, & beset with peril and danger, he spéedily conveyed himself out of England, and arrived in Picardy, where he would gladly have served, [Page 41] but could get no Master. So he went further, and was come to Brittain, where he adventu­ring to pass through a large wood, was driven to stay all day long, and could find no way out. And being benighted, he espyed an old house, whereas some glass had been made, whereof he was glad, supposing to have found some People therein. But when he came thither, there was no Creature: nevertheless he stay­ed there all that Night with extream Hunger and Thirst, and also in great fear of the Wild Beasts which there haunted, greedily longing for the day, and prayed God to help him out of the Wood, lest he should perish for want of food. In the morning he intending to cross the next way out of the Wood, chanced contrariwise in the length thereof: So that the farther he went, the more he strayed; and thus wandred the Second day also with great grief: And when the Night came on, he happened on a Fountain, and being Feeble, for that he had received no sustenance in two days, drank thereof with such an Appetite, that he was thereby somewhat refreshed. As he sat him down by this fountain (the moon shining clear) he heard a noise in the Wood, as if it had béen the grunting of Bears: Wherefore he be­stirred his stumps, and conveyed himself a lit­tle aside out of sight; and therewithal devising how he might best shift to be safe from the force of the Wild-Beasts, he climbed upon a Tree-well freighted with boughs, not far from the [Page 42] Fountain, from whence he beheld many sorts of wild and savage Beasts, coming to drink. Among them all was a Bear not fully grown, which winded Fortunatus, and began to climb up the Tree after him, therewith he was sore a­fraid. And when he was climbed as high as he was able, he stayed on a bough, drew his sword,

and [...]icked the Bear in the head, and wounded him else where in many places, whereupon the fierce Bear so greedily stretched himself at Fortunatus, that the bough brake whereon he stayed, and so fell to the ground. When For­tunatus perceived the coast clear from all other Beasts, save only the Bear that could now scantly remove himself, he descended from the tree and thrust his sword through him, and then [...]aying his mouth to the wound, sucked out th [...] [Page 43] warm blood, wherewith he was somewhat re­freshed, and lay down and stept by the Bear until morning.

AS soon as he awaked, he saw standing be­fore him a Fair and Beautiful Woman, mufled over the eyes; wherefore he praised and thanked God devoutly, that yet he beheld some mankind before his death. And to the Woman he said: I beseech thee sweet Virgin for the Love of God to assist me, that I may come out [Page 44] of this Wood, for this is the third day that I have here irksomely wandred without any Meat, and herewith declared to her also what had chanced concerning the Beat. Then de­manded she of him, saying: Of what Country art thou, and what moved thee to come hither? He answered, I am of the Isle of Cyprus, and poverty hath constrained me to wander, I force not greatly whether, until such time as God (when it pleaseth him) shall provide for me a competent living. She said, fear not Fortuna­tus, for I am Lady Fortune, and by the influ­ence of the Heavens, Stars, and Planets, are given me six powers, which I may bestow on one or more, for a long Time, or short Space, according to the Government of the Celestial Planets, and the permission of the Almighty God. The which are; Namely, Wisdom, Riches, and Strength, Health, Beauty, and long Life: Chose one of these six, and make no long nursing, for the Hour of Choice is near hand past. I was sent by the Divine Power to bestow one of these worldly gifts on thee, which thy affection doth most desire. For­tunatus took no long deliberation of the mat­ter, but said, then I desire of Riches such plen­ty, that I may not lack so long as I live. With that, forthwith she gave unto him a Purse, and said, Receive this same of me, and in what Country soever thou art, as often as thou put­ [...]st thy hand into it, thou shalt draw forth ten [...]ieces of Gold of the same Nations Coyn. And [Page 45] this Purse shall retain this vertue, during the life of thee, and of thine own Children, whoso­ever shall possess it, either thou, thy children, or any other; but no longer after your death: therefore esteem it accordingly, and take spe­cial care thereof. Then said Fortunatus, Right courteous and beautiful Lady, Forasmuch as you have freely bestowed such an incompara­ble Iewel on me, reason would that I also be bound to do something for your sake, lest that this worthy benefit in time slip out of my Re­membrance. She answered him demurely, say­ing: If thou hadst chosen Wisdom instead of Riches, thou wouldst not have been so careful to yield recompence where it is not deserved: For knowest thou not, that I am guided by the finger of the omnipotent God? And perceivest thou not that mine eyes are mufled not regard­ing whom I pleasure, nor seeing where I be­stow? render thanks therefore only where it is due, unto the Giver of all good Gifts; to whom thou canst yield no better recompence, than of thy riches freely received to bestow on the poor and needy, where, when, and to whom it is ex­pedient.

Then said Fortunatus, this will I willingly perform to the utmost of my power, and there­with made a solemn Vow, that this day he would evermore keep holy; and in what Coun­try soever he were, he would bestow on the same day four hundred pieces of Gold of that Nati­ons Coyn, upon some marriable Virgin, in [Page 28] perpetual remembrance how he first obtained his riches. Then said the Lady, follow me, and she led him by chance (as the blindman casteth his staff) overthwart the Wood into a beaten way, willing him to follow that path without turning on the left hand or the right, and that he should not look where she become, neither any more trust unto her. Fortunatus did as she willed him, and travelled speedily till he came out of the wood, where he espied a great house that was an Inn, where men that passed to and fro the wood, usually refreshed themselves. Be­fore he approached the house, he took the Purse out of his bosom, to try whether the Ladies pro­mise would prove to effect, that he might have therewith to pay his charges; and in puting his hand into the purse, drew out ten Crowns, whereof he was very glad and then entred joy­fully into the Inn, calling presently to the Host for the best meat he had, saying, He well would content him, for he was very hungry: that liked the host well, and so he furnished the Table with very good fare.

NOw when Fortunatus had sufficient slack­ed his hunger and thirst, he rested there three days to refresh his empty stomach, and weary limbs, and at his departure bought of [Page 47] the host a compleat harness, and to the intent he might be the sooner entertained; and so dis­charging the host to his full contentation, de­parted farther. There was two mile from the wood a litt [...]e town, with a castle, wherein dwelt an Earl, which had jurisdiction of the Wood granted to him by the Duke of Britain. Fortu­natus passing that way, entred the best Inn of the town, and asked of the Host, where he knew any good Horses to be bought? The Host an­swered, Yesterday came hither a strange Mer­chant with fifteen fair Palfrays, intending to sell them at the feast that the Duke of Brittain doth make to the Kings Daughter of Arragon, among which our Earl hath chosen three of the best, and hath offered for them three hundred Crowns, but the Merchant demanded twenty more. Fortunatus being thus certified, went into his Chamber, and privily took out of his Purse six hundred Crowns, which he put into a bag, and said to the Host, where is the Mer­chant with his Horses? I would fain see them. The Host said, I believe the man will scantly let you see them, for he was very unwilling to shew them unto the Earl. Then said Fortuna­tus, If the Horses like me well, I dare perhaps sooner buy them than the Earl. The Host sup­posed he had but jested in so boasting himself, being so simply apparelled, and also a foot-man: yet brought he him to the Horse-Master, with whom he communed so far, that they were brought forth and ridden before him. He liked [Page] [...] [Page 41] [...] [Page 42] [...] [Page 43] [...] [Page 44] [...] [Page 45] [...] [Page 28] [...] [Page 47] [...] [Page 48] them all well, but meant to buy only those two that the Earl had cheapned; wherefore he readily delivered for them three hundred and twen­ty Crowns, and willed them to be brought to his Inn. He bespake also costly saddles and trim furniture for them, and requested his Host to provide him two comely servitors, to whom he promised to give good entertainment. While [...] he was thus furnishing himself after the brav­est manner, the Earl had intelligence that he had bought the horses which he thought to have had; whereat he was greatly displeased, and inwardly vexed, especially for that he was so disapointed, when as he purposed to accompany many Noble Estates at the solemn Wedding Feast Wherefore in great indignation he sent one of his Men unto the Inn-keeper, to de­mand what manner of man he was, that had so spightfully bought the Horses out of his hands: The Host said he knew him not, but that he came into the Inn as a Foot-man, how­beit furnished with Armour as a Horse-man, requiring me to procure Horses for him, and promised therefore gladly to content me. But after he had once dined with me, I liked him so well, that except he had payed me for the first, I would not have trusted him for the second, lest he should have beguiled me. Then said the Servant angerly to the Host: Where­fore would you seem to wain him to the horses? The Inn-keeper answered, therein have I done as every honest Host ought to do for his Guest [Page 49] in such a case. And although he required me to go with him to cheapen such fair horses, yet I thought him scant able to buy silly Asses.

THe Servant returned with his answer to the Earl; who being informed that he was no gentleman, commanded his men in a great rage to lay hands on him; saying, that he had surely committed some great Robery, or mur­thered some man. The servants executed his Commandment, and enclosed him in a loath­some Prison, asking from whence, and what he was?

He answered, I was born in a Town of Cy­prus, called Famagosta, and I am the Son of a poor Gentleman.

Then asked the Earl by what means he got so much money? He said, My money is my own, truly gotten, and therefore I trust your honour will not rigorously enforce me to recount from whence I had it: but if any man can prove or say that I have done wrong to any creature, or come untruly by it, I shall willingly stand to thy Law and mercy. To this, said the Earl, thy prating will not avail thee; but thou shalt ere thou depart confess from whence and how thou hast obtained this money: with that caused they him to be brought to the rack; when Fortunatus [Page 50] saw how extreamly he should be dealt withal, he was sore afraid, howbeit he purposed rather to die, than to open the secret Vertues of his Purse. But when he was Racked, and felt the grievous pangs and torments thereof, he cryed to them to unlose him, and promised to utter whatsoever they would ask. Then being again demanded how he came by so many fair Crowns? He said: After I had wandred three days long in the Wood, and with much ado at length came out into the fields, I found a Purse wherein were six Hundred and Ten Crowns. Then asked the Earl where is that Purse? Fortunatus said, When I had told the Money, I put it in my own bag, and cast the Purse into the River that runneth by the Wood. The Earl said, Thou Varlet wilt thou rob me of that is mine? Thou shalt well understand that both thy Body and Goods are forfeited unto me, forasmuch as whatsoever is in the Wood is mine own. Then said For­tunatus, Gracious Lord, I wist not of your Iurisdiction therein, for I thanked God there­fore, and esteemed it as a Gift. And think­est thou, said the Earl, this to be sufficient excuse for thee? Didst thou never hear say, That he which is ignorant must ask? There­fore to be short, prepare thy self, for to Day will I take from thee thy Goods, and to Mor­row thy Life. Then thought Fortunatus with himself, miserable wretch that I am, how uncircumspect was I, having the free Electi­on [Page 51] on six Gifts, that I chose not Wisdom be­fore the rest, for then I had not fallen into this danger and thraldom. And then he craved for mercy, saying: O gracious Lord, have com­passion on the poor wandring wight, and seek not my death, which will nothing avail you: take unto you the goods found, which be yours, and spare me my life which God hath lent me, and I will evermore pray truely for your good estate.

The Earl was very loath to pardon him, because he feared lest he might make ill report of his rigour where he should become, which might turn to his reproach among other No­ble Estate, they hearing thereof. Notwith­standing he being moved to mercy, by the in­stance of his men, granted him his Life, but bereft him of all his goods, saving only the Harnass, which he rendred to him again, with a Crown also in his Purse.

The Earl moreover in the morning before day commanded his Men to bring him without the Town, and there to take an Oath of him, that he should never again come into his Iu­risdiction, so long as he lived. Fortunatus inwardly rejoyced, that he had so well esca­ped, for if the Earl had but known the truth, most likely he had been bereft of his most pre­cious Purse. After this came Fortunatus to Angiers, which is the chief Town of Brit­tain, scituated by the Sea-Coast, where were [Page 52] then lodged many Lords and Noble Estates, abiding the comming of the Dutches, whom they purposed to welcome with all kind of mar­tial games, dancing, masking, and other such triumphant pastimes. Of this was Fortunatus very glad: and being desirous to advance him­self among them, thought thus with himself, if I should do in all points as I might if I list, peradventure I should be served as I was late­ly by the Earl.

Howbeit he adventured yet once again to buy three fair horses with costly furniture, and hired two servants, cloathing both them, and himself presently in trim apparel, and so lodged in the best Inn of Angiers, there meaning to wait the Dutches coming, and to receive her in the Company of other Gentlemen. So the Dutches being landed, was met by many No­bles and great E [...]tates, and so conveyed to An­giers, where the Duke held a great Feast for the space of six weeks and three days.

FOrtunatus delighted in the company of such lusty Gallants, and with the sight of many sumptuous shews, used very often to go and come to the Court with his goodly Horses and his two men, leaving nothing ought worth be­hind him in the Inn: Which the Host mislik­ed, [Page 53] forasmuch as he knew him not, fearing lest he would give him the slip, and leave him in the lurch for his charges, as others had done at the like Feast before time. Therefore said he un­to Fortunatus: Good Friend, (fithence I have so small acquaintance with you as you know) I pray you let me be discharged for that you have had every day, before you ride to the Court. With that Fortunatus smiled, and said to the Host, I mean not to depart without con­tenting you to the uttermost; and for a suffi­cient testimony to satisfie thy mind, take here of me these hundred Crowns, and when thou thinkest that I or mine that come with me, have spent the value thereof, tell it me, and I will give thee more, neither will I look for any straight account of thee. The Host received the money, and after that much more reverent­ly esteemed of Fortunatus, veiling his Bonnet always when he passed by: setting him in the worthiest Room at the Table, with the best; and placed him in a fairer Chamber than he had before.

As Fortunatus sat at the board with many other Lords, thither resorted many other Musicians to make Mirth and Pastime for Money. Amongst others came before them a Lusty Old Man, declaring unto them his Poverty: and said moreover that he was a Gentleman of Ireland, and that in seven years space he had travelled throughout ten Empires, and twenty Kingdoms, whereby [Page 54] said he, I am driven to this poor estate, an [...] therefore I beseech your honours to assist ma [...] with your courteous liberality towards m [...] Charges, to pass home into my Country. A [...] certain Earl sitting at the Board, willed him to name all the Countries through which h [...] had passed.

The Old Gentleman did as he was request­ed truly and at large: and said furthermore there is few of these Kingdoms but hath also a [...] the least three or four Dukes under it, beside [...] other Earls and Lords, both Spiritual and Temporal: All these have I seen, which hav [...] every one their proper Language, whereof I learned so much, as if need were, I could express my mind in any of them. I have moreover in writing, the name of every King that then reighned when I was in his Court and the True Distance of every Kingdom from the other.

The Earl said, would God I had been with thee every where, so I were here again as I am; and therewith gave him four Crowns, and of­fered him also if he would stay there whilest the Feast lasted, to pay for his charges. The Gent [...]eman greatly thanked him for his Gift and gentle proffer, and said he much longed to see his Friends and native Country, and there­fore was loath any longer to stay. Fortunatus had given good ear to the talk of the old Gen­tleman, and thought in his mind, if I might have him to guide me through strange Coun­tries, [Page 55] I would richly reward him. So pre­sently after dinner he sent for the Gentleman, and asked his name, who answered, I am called Leopoldus. Then said Fortunatus, I perceive e­ven now by your words that you have wandred throughout many Countries and Kingdoms, I am a Young Man, earnestly disposed to pass my youth in travel, for Experience and Wis­dom: If thou therefore wilt vouchsafe, to be my Guide and Companion, I will give thee a goodly Horse for thy self, and another for thy Man, whom I will maintain to Attend on thee, allowing you what Money you will with reason spend, and will esteem thee as my Brother.

Then said Leopoldus, I could be right well content to enjoy such courteous intertainment, but alas I am old, and have wife and children, that wot not what is become of me, and there­fore Natural Love doth compel me to return home again.

Then said Fortunatus, If thou wilt agrée to fulfil my request, I likewise faithfully promise thee, that I will go with thee also into Ireland, and will moreover endow thy self, thy wife, and thy children, (if they be alive) with riches suf­ficient, if our journey speed well, and that we may safely return to Famagosta, (that lieth in the Isle of Cyprus) I will there provide thee a House, Men-servants, and maidens, and all o­ther things necessary during thy life, if thou list there to stay.

Leopoldus thought with himself, this young man promiseth me very much, and if he be able to perform it accordingly, it falleth out luckily for me in my old age: and therewith said to Fortunatus, I am content to grant your Re­quest, so far as you accomplish your promise. But I would not wish you to take upon you such a matter, except you have so much ready money as shall be requisite, for Travel requir­eth infinite charges, if we look to be well en­tertained.

Then said Fortunatus: For money care thou not, for in every Country can I get enough. Be content therefore to promise that thou wilt remain with me to my full journeys end. He said again: Promise you me also to give that you bequested. Thus did they Faithfully vow, the one not to forsake the other, what Danger soever might betide. When they were thus both agreed, Fortunatus gave to Leopoldus two hundred Crowns, saying: Go and buy two fair Horses, and hire thee a Ser­vant, or if thou list, a couple; and when that money is spent, I will give thee more: Leo­poldu, thinking this to be a good beginning, furnished himself lustily with a Horse & a Man. The like did Fortunatus also, and took with him but two Servants and a Page; so that they were in all six persons. Then agreed they upon the gests of their journey, determining first to Travel over the whole Empire of Rome, and so took their ne [...] way by Norem-Berge, [Page 57] Word, Ausburg, Norlingen, Usme, Constance, Bazil, Strasburg, Ments, Colen, and so from Colen to Bruges in Flanders, and from thence to London in England, which is the chief City of the Realm, and so next to E­denbourgh, the head City in Scotland, which is nine days journey from London.

ANd when they were there, they had yet three days journey into Ireland, whereas Leopoldus dwelt: when they were arrived in London; Leopoldus requested his Master to go [Page 58] with him to his House, which was in a Town called Waldrink: where at his return he found his wife and children as he had left them, sav­ing that one of his sons & one of his daughters were married, which all were glad of his com­ing. And whereas Fortunatus considered that Leopoldus had no more Provision than was needful for his houshold, he gave him an hun­dred crowns to ordain all things after the most sumptuous manner, against he should come to make good chear with him. Wherefore Leo­poldus made provision of great plenty of deli­cate victuals, and bad his Children with their husbands and wives, and many other friends and neighbours to accompany his Master at that Feast. So there was kept such bountiful hospitality for that time, that all the Town fa­red the better for him.

Fortunatus after the feast was ended, called unto him Leopoldus, and said: Thou must now again take thy leave of thy Wife and Children: Wherefore receive here of me three Purses, in each of them is five hundred Crowns, whereof thou shalt give one to thy wife, another to thy son, and the third to thy daughter for a farewel, that they may have sufficient whereby to live when thou art gone.

Leopoldus greatly thanked him for his libe­ral gifts, and therewith made his wife and children exceeding glad. Fortunatus understan­ding that two days journey from thence was [Page 59] St. Patr [...]cks Purgatory, he was very desirous to see the same. Whereupon they rode unto the City Vernecks, wherein is an Abby, and there behind the high Altar in the Church is a door, within the which is a deep dark Hole, the same do men call St. Patricks Purgatory: But none may go into it without licence of the Ab­bot. Whereupon Leopoldus obtained leave of him, of whom he was demanded of what Country his Master was? he answered, of the Isle of Cyprus: Whereupon the Abbot invi­ted Fortunatus to Dinner, which pleased him well. So at his coming he presented the Abbot with a Vessel of the best Wine he could get. The Abbot yielded unto him great Thanks, for in that Country they seldome use any Wine, except it be in Ministring the Sacrament. When the Dinner was finished, Fortunatus said unto the Abbot. May it please your Honour to let me understand upon what occasion this Hole first was named St. Patricks Purgatory? The Abbot answered, saying: Many hundred Years sithence was this Town and this Abby a Desolate Wil­derness, and not far from it dwelt an Ab­bot called Patrick, who was a very Devout Man. He oftentimes resorting to this Desart, to do some work of penance, one day by chance found this long and deep Hole, into the which he went so far, that he could not return. With that he fell on his knees, praying unto God in­stantly, that (if it were his pleasure) he would [Page 60] deliver him out of that dark dungeon: whilest he thus devoutly prayed, it seemed to him that he heard yet further of a piteous cry. In the mean while suddenly he was delivered out of the Hole: Wherefore he joyfully Praising the Lord for his mercy, went again into the Cloister, and became more devout than ever he was before. And so in perpetual memory of this chance, was this Abby builded by devout men. Fortunatus then asked farther what the Pilgrims reported that came thence out again? The Abbot said, I seldom en­quire of them: but some say, they have heard a pittiful screeking: others report they have neither seen nor heard any thing at all, but that they have been sore afraid. Then said Fortunatus: I am come from far Countries to this place, and if I should return home without some certain Trial of such a Monu­ment in my own Person, it should be a reproach to me: therefore will I not go hence till I have been in the Hole. Then said the Abbot, If you will needs adventure, beware you go not too far in, for there be many by­ways wherein you may go astray, as many others have done in my time, which have not been found till three days after. Fortu­natus asked of Leopoldus whether he would adventure in with him? He said: Yea, I will go into any place with you so long as God spares me Life. That liked Fortuna­tus well: Whereupon they receiving the holy [Page 61] Sacrament: on the next morrow, the Priest let them in, blessed them, and shut the Door after them. There they wandring in the dark, at the length wist not to go backward or for­ward, for they soon went astray; neither could they hear the calling of the Priest in the mor­ning, whereon they trusted, and the bolder ad­ventured.

Thus they not knowing how to help them­selves, and being very hungry and faint, they wholly despaired of all succour, & dreaded their lives, they sat down as men forlorn, neither hearing nor seeing any thing at all, and there­with made their humble prayers unto God; Saying: Almighty Lord, assist us with thy Power, by some means or other, for in this loath­som Den, neither Silver nor Gold can ought a­vail, though we have it at will, but in thee only is our trust. The Priest in the mean while sig­nified unto the Abbot, that the Pilgrims were not as yet come out again, whereof he was very sorry; especially because of For­tunatus, who had presented him so liberally. The Servants also at the Door watched continually, and greatly lamented for their Masters: But the Abbot notwithstanding remembred himself of an old Man, who many years before had measured the Hole with a Cord, for him he sent, and requested him to try whether he could bring forth the men. The Servants also promised him an hundred Crowns for his pains. The old man [Page 62] said if they be yet alive, I shall sure bring them forth; and therewith prepared a musical instru­ment, played on it, and so passed from one hole to the other, until he had found them, being very feeble and faint; whom he willed to take hold of him, and so follow the sound of his Instru­ment, as the blind followeth his guide. So by the help of God, and the old mans assistance came they again to the light, whereof the Ab­bot was very glad: for he feared if those two Pilgrims had been lost, that no more would have resorted thither, whereby he and his Co­vent should fare the worse. The men also told Fortunatus that they had promised an hundred Crowns to the old men for searching them out, which he forthwith deliver'd with great thanks. He ordained also a sumptuous dinner, whereto he invited the Abbot and his brethren, thanking God for his deliverance out of so great dan­ger. He gave also unto them for a Farewel, five hundred Crowns, to the intent they should pray for his prosperous success. Then took they their leave of the Abbot, and setting for­ward to accomplish their purposed journey, tra­velled back the next way to Callis, and from thence to St. Joss in Picardy, and so by Paris, through France, Spain, Naples, and Rome, un­to Venice.

WHen they were come to Venice, they heard say that the Emperor of Con­stantinople would have his Son Crowned Em­peror; and for that he was himself very old, he would yield up unto him the whole Authority and jurisdiction of the Empire, for the term of both their lives: whereupon the Venetians ap­pointed a worshipful Embassador to pass to the young Emperor in a Galley, and to deliver un­to him certain jewels sent in token of gratula­tion from them. Fortunatus therefore bargained with the Master of the Galley, so that he had his [Page 46] men passed therein to Constantinople, which is a great and famous City. Thither were assem­bled such a number of people of divers Nati­ons, that there was very hardly any lodging to be had: and although the Venet [...]ans had assign­ed a house for their use, yet would they admit no stranger under them, so that Fortunatus and his men seeking long for a lodging, at the last they chanced on one (such as it was) whereof the Host was a thief. There continued they a great while, going every day forth to see the Triumphs and Royalties of the Emperours Court, whereof much might be written.

Fortunatus always when he went abroad, caused his Chamber door to be fa [...] locked, sup­posing then all things to be safe. But the Host had a privy entrance into the Chamber, where the greatest bed-sted was, through the feeling, whereout he had taken a board, and set it in a­gain that none might perceive it, and there en­tred he in and out when he listed. And when they were all abroad, he would search the Males and Budgets, and could find no money. Wherefore he thinking of likely-hood that they carried their money with them sowed in their Doublets: when as they reckoned with him for their charges, he marked diligently from whence they took the money, and perceived that Fortuna [...]us took it from under the Table, and g [...]ve it to Leopol [...]us, who payed the Host, abat­ing no penny; for so he was willed always to do. But the Host was not therewith content, [Page 65] but would gladly also have had both the money and the purse. About this time was the day at hand, wherein he had vowed in memorial of Lady Fortunes Gift, to bestow [...]our hundred pieces of Gold towards the marriage of some poor maiden. Wherefore he asked of the Host, whether he knew any poor honest man that had a daughter marriageable, and was not able to bestow her for lack of ability: such a one, said he, bring unto me, and I will bestow largely on her to prefer her marriage. The Host said, of such you may have plenty; and to morrow I will bring you an honest man, who shall bring with him a modest and comely maiden. This liked Fortunatus very well. But then thought the Host with himself, this night will I rob him of his money before he bestow it. So the same night did he convey himself into their chamber through the see [...]ing, when they were all asleep, and searched their cloaths, supposing to have found great sums of money in their Doublets, but therein he was foulely deceived. Howbeit out of Leopoldus purse he took forty Duckats, and handled Fortunatus purse on the out-side also: but when he felt no money therein, he cast it under the bed-s [...]ed; which when he had done, he went forth, and set open the door and the windows, as though some strange thieves had béen there.

When Leopoldus awaked, and saw the win­dows and door open, he rebuked the men for their negligence, but the servants being fast a­sleep, [Page 66] started up suddenly half amazed, saying: That they also were ignorant thereof. With that Leopoldus was greatly afraid, and looked for his Purse, which he perceived to be cut off, and a piece of the string hanging yet at his girdle. Then called he to Fortunatus, saying: Our Chamber is burst open, and the Money which you delivered me is stollen. Fortunatus forthwith looked to his doublet, and perceiv­ing his fortunate Purse to be cut away also, he was therewith astonished, that he sunk down in a swound as though he were dead. Leopoldus and the other Servants not knowing of this great loss, rubbed and refreshed him, so that his spirits were revived again.

As they were thus affrighted and in great perplexity, in came the Host, and set a grim countenance on the matter, asking angerly what ailed them to be so unquiet? they told him that they were robbed of their money; then said he: What careless men are ye? have ye not a close Chamber with lock and key? why then did ye not make all things fast and sure? They answer­ed: When we went to bed, we both shut the windows and locked the door, but now we find them all open. Then said the Host: Look that you have not one robbed another, and there be also at this present many strangers and lusty Fellows in the City, who perhaps had more skill to break into your Chamber then we wot of. Howbeit when he saw them in such sorrow­ful plight, he asked of Fortunatus whither he [Page 67] had lost any great sum of money? He said: Not much. Then said the Host, Why then do you so take on and disquiet your self for a little Mo­ney? yesterday you would have bestowed a poor mans daughter in marriage: Spare now the Money and bestow it on your self. Then said Fortunatus: I care more for the Purse than for the Money, for there is in it a Bill of exchange of great importance which can profit none but my self. When the Host saw that Fortuna­tus was so sad and heavy for his Purse (though he was a desperate and hard-hearted fellow) yet was he moved with some Compassion; saying: Let us yet search narrowly about the Chamber: Perchance we may find it, for no thief regardeth an empty Purse. With that every man began to search, and one of them creeping under the bed-sted, found the Purse, and shewed it Fortunatus, who presently knew the same: but yet feared greatly lest that by the cutting it had lost its Vertue, which he sore longed to know, but durst not as yet make tryal in his fight; for he misdoubted the worst, that if any had known the quality of the Purse, they would have murthered him for it. So then lay he down in his Bed again, and privily under the Covering put his Hand in the Purse, and found that it retained still the vertue it had before: where­of he was exceeding glad. Howbeit he was so sore affrighted with fear, and vexed with anger and sorrow before, that he could not [Page 68] so soon perfectly recover again his former strength and colour, but remained so in his bed all that day. Leopoldus came to comfort him, saying: Good Sir pluck up your lively spirits, and be content, we have left fair Horses, Chains, and Rings of Gold and other Iewels: so although we have no money, we will sell all these things, and by Gods help bring you safe home again: for I have full often passed many Countries without money; For Leopol­dus thought in his mind that Fortunatus had riches sufficient at home, if he might attain thither. But Fortunatus answered faintly, and said: he that looseth goods, looseth understanding; Wisdom is to be chosen before Riches,: also health, strength, beauty, and long life, can no man steal; and therewith held his peace. Leopoldus wist not what he meant by those affectionate words, neither knew he which he had chosen of all these gifts: And supposing that such sudden passions proceeded of the lightness and disturbance of his head, was no farther inquisitive to know his meaning. Howbeit after a while, Fortunatus being with warm meat refreshed, his Colour was restored, and began to be merry again, commanding his Servants to provide Candles to keep light in the Chamber all the Night long, and that they should have their naked Swords ready drawn by them, to prevent the like Attempt of thieves. In the morning went Fortunatus with his men into the Church of Sephia, and [Page 69] there gave to the Priests ten pieces of Gold, that they should in our Ladies Chappel which was fair and sumptuous, cause a Sermon to be made, and Te Deum to be sung to the praise of God. From thence went he to the place where Marchants and Exchangers resorted, and willed all his men to go home to tend the Horses, and prepare their dinner: and deli­vered to Leopoldus certain money to buy five Purses, saying: I will go to my Exchanger to take up some money, of which we may not in any case be long destitute. When Leopoldus had bought the Purses, Fortunatus put in one of them an hundred Duckats, which he deli­vered to Leopoldus to be disbursed upon ordi­nary expences. He gave also to each of his three men a Purse with ten Duckats therein, and said unto them, be merry and wise, take good heed that no such danger befal unto us, as hath of late hapned. They all thanked him, and pro­mised their diligent and careful service to their uttermost power. He moreover put four hun­dred duckats into the fifth purse, sending for the Host, to whom he said, do I pray as I request concerning some Poor mans Daughter, on whom I purpose to bestow liberally toward her marriage. The Host said, I will bring unto you a Man with his Daughter, that you may see them. With that he went to the Poor Man, and told him he had a Rich Guest; take (said he) your Daughter with you, and go with me, and thou shalt see how well the [Page 70] matter shall fall out for your Commodity as I trust.

THe Maidens Father was a Ioyner, an ho­nest & homely fellow, who said to the host I would be loath to bring my Daughter any where abroad, I wot not to whom, lest she should be abused & lose her virginity, which is the chiefest Iewel that she hath to make her fit for a husband: therefore tell the gentleman if he mean to do her any good, that if it please him he may come hither to see her. Hereat was the host displeased, & declaring his uncourteous an­swer, supposed that Fortunatus would be there­with offended also: but he took it in good part, and was well content. And taking Leopoldus with him, willed the host to bring him to the mans house, to whom he said: My host here hath given me to understand that thou hast a fair daughter, which is at womans state, let her come unto me with her mother. He asked, for what intent? Perhaps, said Fortunatus, more for thy commodity than thou wotest of. With that the poor man called forth his wife & his daugh­ter, which were ashamed of their homely appa­rel, especially the bashful maiden, which hovered behind her mothers back. Howbeit she was both fair & well-favoured: to whom Fortunatus [Page 71] said: Stand forth fair Virgin before me, and be not abashed. Then asked he her Father of her age, who said: She is full twenty years old. Then said he, Why have you kept her so long unmarried? to which the Mother made quick speed to answer before her husband, saying, she was tall and old enough six years agon, but she wanted ability to marry her. Then said For­tunatus, if I would bestow on her a large dow­rie, could you forthwith find out a fit husband for her? Then said the mother: Our neighbor hath a Son who beareth unto her good Will, who I know but only for want of wealth would take her to his Wife. Then asked he the maiden how she liked of her neighbours Son: She answered: I will in no case make my own choice, though I should die without a husband: but whom my Father and Mother will appoint unto me, the same will I have: With that the mother could not stay from speaking, and said: I know she saith not as she thinketh, and I am certain she loveth him, and would fain have him before any other. Fortunatus then sending for the young man, whom at the first he liked very well, poured out of a Purse four hundred Duckats upon the Table before them: and said to the young man, who was but thirty years old, wilt thou be content to Wed this Maid? & to the maid he said, art thou willing to have this man for thy husband, & I am disposed to give you freely this little money for a dow­rie? Then answered the young man, saying: If [Page 72] you mean good earnest, and indeed will perform your liberal promise, for my part we shall be soon agreed. The mother without further pau­sing offered her consent, and said: Then doth my Daughter likewise agree thereto. Where­upon Fortunatus forthwith sent for a Priest, and caused them to be married in the presence of their Parents, and after the marriage was finished, he gave unto them the money which he had brought only for that purpose. He gave also to the Father ten Duckats to cloath him and his wife, and ten Duckats more to keep the marriage feast; whereof they were all glad, thanking greatly Fortunatus, and praised God for their good fortune, saying among them God hath surely sent this man from heaven to help the poor.

After this they went again to their Inn, but Leopoldus marvelled that his Master was so liberal to give money so lightly, whereas before he was so sad for a little money that he had lost. The Host likewise was grieved that he could not find the Purse with the four hun­dred Duckats, when as he searched so narrow­ly: and therefore thought thus with himself, sithence he hath so much to give away, I must needs empty his purse once again. He there­fore knowing that they had a Taper of wax to burn all night, when they were all gone forth to the Court, brake privily into the Chamber, made holes in the Taper, poured in Water, and stopped them close that it could not be per­ceived: [Page 73] so that when it had burnt two or three hours, it should quench and go out of it self. So forasmuch as the Emperours Feast was nigh ended, when as he knew Fortunatus would de­part, he determined the same night to rob his guest again. Wherefore he provided for them against they came from the Court, the best Wine that he could get, and gave it them of his own cost to drink, to the intent they should sleep the sounder. So when they had made good chear, and were laid down to rest, the taper burning, and their naked swords lay by them, they fell into a sound sleep without eare.

BVt the Host lay waiting for his Prey, and when he perceived the Light to be quench­ed, he crept through the hole which he had made before, coming first to Leopoldus; under whose head when he began to grope, Leopoldus there­with suddenly awaked, and with his sharp sword that lay ready by him, striking about him in the dark, by chance so wounded the thief in the neck, that he fell dead to the ground. Then called Leopoldus angrily to the men, and said: Why have you put out the light? They an­swered, that none of them had done it. Then willed he one of them quickly to go fetch a light, and the rest to stand with their swords about the door; For, said he, let none go out, here is a thief in the chamber. When the light came, they found the Host deadly wounded, ly­ing by Leopoldus Bed-sted. When Fortunatus saw that, he was more afraid than ever he was in his life, and said: Alas that ever we came so Constantinople: it were not much to lose our goods, but now shall we be bereft of our life also: and therewith said to Leopoldus: What a hainous fact hast thou committed in staying our Host: if thou hadst but yet wounded him, by Gods help and money we might have escap­ed. Leopoldus answered: It was dark, I wist not where I smote, nor whom I touched: but my pretence was to strike a Thief that groped under my head, who most like hath robbed us before. Therefore if the truth were known why he was slain, we should be in danger nei­ther [Page] of Life nor Goods. Then said Fo [...] tunatus: It will in no case be believed if w [...] make our Host a Thief: for his friends wil [...] not suffer us to escape, neither will money [...] reason help in this behalf. Fortunatus als [...] in this distress, thought in his mind, If [...] had a friend whom I durst trust, to shew hi [...] the secrets of my purse, though we were imprisoned, and declared the truth of the matter, perhaps the Iudge would be intreated for a grea [...] sum of money offered by that friend, to spare u [...] our lives, and deliver us: Contrariwise h [...] thought again, If I hazard my purse upon an mans credit, it will be so acceptable to him, tha [...] rather than he will restore it again, instead [...] friendship, he will exagerate the cause, sayin [...] unto the Iudge, that it were a great shame an [...] reproach that Guests murthering their Ho [...] should escape unpunished. Wherefore he concluded by his own Reason, that it were no good to trust any man with his Purse, o [...] with a great Sum of Money, lest it shoul [...] the sooner work destruction: so that he was i [...] a fearful Perplexity. When Leopoldus sav [...] his Master and his Servants so dismayed he said unto them: Why stand you thu [...] trembling and amazed? No sorrow will hel [...] when a mischief is once done, neither ca [...] we Revive him again; let us therefor [...] speedily Devise and take Counsel togethe [...] with a bold E [...]rage, how we may Escap [...] this present Danger. Then said Fortunatu [...] [Page 76] I cannot devise what is to be done (repenting inwardly again, that he had not chosen Wis­dom instead of Riches) but if thou Leopoldus canst give us any good counsel, perform it with speed: Leopoldus said, then follow me, and do as I bid you, and with Gods help I will bring us all hence without any danger of body or goods. This speech of Leopoldus somewhat re­vived their spirits.

LEopoldus willing them to be silent, and to hide the light, took the dead Corps on his back, & cast it into a deep well by the stable, with the head downward. It was then about mid­night, [Page 77] so that no body saw or heard him. Then returned he to the Chamber and said: I have rid us of this Thief, so that in a great while none can know where he is become. I suppose also that he made no man privy to his attempt: so that it is far unlike to be descried that we have done ought unto him: therefore be merry again, and pluck up your hearts. He said more­over to the servants: Go spéedily and prepare your horses, with whistling, singing, and plea­sant communication, and in any case look that none of you show a sorrowful countenance, and we will do the like: Then as soon as the day breaketh we will ride away, so that we shall be six miles hence at the least before the Host shall be missed. With this Fortunatus was comfort­ed, and framed himself a pleasant Gesture. When the horses were readily appointed, they called for Malmsey, which there is very good, and made all merry, with lusty and frolick de­meanour: and at their departure gave unto e­very Man-servant and Maiden in the house a Duckat. Leopoldus said: I trust we shall re­turn within this month, and make merry here again. Then Fortunatus took his leave, and said to the Servants of the house, thank our Host for his friendly entertainment, and tell him that I would have brought a Cup of Malmsey to his bed-side, but that I thought Rest would do him more good. With that rode they forth of the Door towards Turky, with all speed possible, and took their next [Page 78] [...]ait in a City called Raropia, in the Turkish Empire: in the which was an Officer whose charge was to convey the strange and Christi­ [...]n Merchants, and to give them a Pasport through the Country. Leopoldus having for­ [...]er experience thereof, went to the Officer, and told him, There were six Pilgrims that required a safe Conduct to ride with them. He answered: You shall be safely conveyed, but I will have of each of you four Crowns, and the Guide must have a Crown a day. Leopoldus (though he thought it overmuch) made not many words, but gave him the money, and the Officer delivered him a pasport in writing, and sent with them an expert guide, who conveyed them throughout all Turky. Fortunatus by this time, having abandoned all dread and care for their thievish Host, behaved himself chearfully, and so rode lastly to the great Turks Court, and beholding there his exceeding riches, and the infinite multitude of Souldiers that be continually maintained in Garrisons, mar­velled at the mightiness and glory of his Em­pire, and especially to see so many Mamelukes and Enemies to Christian Religion, which greatly m [...]sliked him: and therefore stayed not long there, but went from thence to the great Walachia, wherein was ruler, Tracola Waida; and so came to the Kingdom of Bosna, from Bosna, orderly through Croatia, Dalmatia, the City of Buda in Hungary, from Buda to Cra­covia in Poland; and so to Coppenhagen in Den­mark, [Page 79] to Stockholm in Swecia, to Paragon in Norway, to Prague in Bohemia; and so the next way through the Dukedom of Saxony to Frankenland, and then to Augsborough. There met he with certain Merchants, and accompa­nying them to Venice, payed all their charges. Fortunatus had registred in a book, the names, usages, ceremonies, religions, and the courtly demeanours of all those Countries Cities, Emperours, Kings, and People by whom he had travelled. But now in the time that he stayed at Venice, he laid wait for the fairest Iewels that might be gotten, not sticking for the price were it never so great; whereby the Venetians received of him a great sum of mo­ney, so that he was highly esteemed amongst them. He remembring also in what poverty he had left his Father and Mother when he departed from Famagosta, bought much fair Cloath, Velvet, and Silks for their Apparel; and costly Houshold-stuff, of every sort double: And also bought a Ship to convey all those Goods into Cyprus. It was now the six­téenth year sithtnce he departed; and when he came to Famagosta, it was told him that his Father Theodorus, and his Mother Gratiana were both dead, wherefore he was very sorry.

He then hired a large house, wherein he be­stowed his goods, and entertained many more men-servants and maidens for all purposes; and from thenceforth maintained most state­ly [Page 80] and sumptuous Hospitality, that of every man he was had in great estimation. Howbeit many mused and much marvelled how he had obtained such wealth, whereas the most knew that he departed in extream poverty.

ANd as soon as he might bring it to pass, he purchased again his Fathers house; and many more thereto adjoyning: All which he caused to be plucked down, and in that place builded a goodly large Palace after the bravest manner, like as he had seen in other Countries. And by the house also he founded a sumptuous Church, and twelve more houses for twelve Priests to continue in divine service of God, as it were a Chantry or Cathedral Minster. For the Revenues whereof, he also allowed yearly xiv hundred Duckats: that was for every Priest one hundred, and the other two for the Reparation and Ornaments of the Church. He caused moreover to be made in the Minster three Tombs, one for his Father, the other for his Mother, whose bones he cau­sed to be digged up, and buried therein: and the third to be reserved for himself and his Heirs. When all things were finished to his mind, he purposed to take a Wife, which when the nobility and gentlemen of Cyprus understood, [Page 81] every one which had the fairest daughters, set them forth to the uttermost shew, by training them up with fine qualities, nurturing them with good behaviour, and trimming them in comely and gorgeous attire. But amongst all others, not far from Famagosta dwell an Earl named Lord Nemian, which had three daugh­ters that were passing fair, whom the King counselled to bestow one of them on Fortunatus if he might, and offered himself also to break the matter if the Earl were so content. Now the Earl, though he were not very rich, séemed at the first to make little account of Fortunatus, saying to the King: If he should be a suitor to any of my daughters, would your Grace ad­vise me to give my consent? For we know he hath no lands nor yearly revenues: and where­as perhaps he had great sums of ready money, we see how he hath bestowed it in sumptuous building, whereof cometh no profit. And albeit he have sufficient store yet left, money is casual and may soon be consumed and lost, and so may he come to be in poverty at the end as his Fa­ther did, who sometime was exceeding Rich and Puissant. Then said the King to the Earl, I have been certified by them that have seen it, that he hath as many precious Iewels as would buy an Earldom, and yet will sell none of them. I hear say also, that he hath travelled through many nations, whereby it is to be pre­supposed that he would not have builded such a gorgeous Palace, and a Chantry which he [Page 82] hath so endowed with perpetual Rents, except he well knew how to maintain an estate agree­able: And therefore if you will do by my counsel, you shall (now he is disposed to marry) offer unto him one of your Daughters. And if so be you are willing so to do, I my self will do my diligence in first motioning of the matter, not doubting to bring it to pass. For Fortu­natus I know will do much at my request: and indeed I had rather he should match in a No­ble kindred, than with one of the meaner sort, being also unmeet (as to me seemeth) that one of a base Linage should possess that fair Pa­lace, and dwell therein.

The Earl understanding that Fortunatus was greatly in the Kings favor, said: forasmuch as I perceive your graces pleasure is that I should give one of my daughters to Fortunatus, therein I give your majesty full power, both of her and my goods, Then said the King, Lord Nemian send your three daughters to my Wife the Queen, and I will cause them to be gorgeously attired, upon hope that one of them shall please him: howbeit I will give him the choice, to take which he best fan­cieth; I will moreover bestow all the charges of the Wedding Feast, and look what he re­quireth more, that will I perform, for that thou hast frankly committed both Body and Goods unto me. The Earl humbly thanked his Majesty, and so taking his leave of the King, rode home and declared to the Coun­tess [Page 83] his wife all the matter as it was decreed between the King and him.

The Countess liked of their Agreement well, save only that Fortunatus was not no [...] enough of birth, and that she was loath he should have his free choice: for she loved one of them above the rest, whereof she would in no wise make the Earl privy. Howbeit she agreed to his will: whereupon she comely addressed them, and appointed a motherly Gentlewoman to be their Guide, with men and maidens to attend on them, as was meet for their estate; they were sent unto the Kings Court, where they with their retinue were honourably re­ceived, and were taught the courteous guise and nurture of the Court, whereof they were not altogether ignorant before. When the King thought it most convenient, he sent a Messenger for Fortunatus, that he should come to the Court. And albeit he was not certified for what cause he was sent for, yet he presup­posing that it was for no ill intent, speedily prepared himself and rode to the King, of whom he was friendly entertained.

Then said the King unto him: Fortunatus thou art my Subject, and I am well perswa­ded of thee, that thou will have respect unto my counsel, for that I would be loath to with thee any evil. I am informed that thou hast builded a goodly House, and erected a Church with a Chantry, and that thou art now mind­ [...]d to marry a Wife: wherefore I fearing lest [Page 84] thou shouldest take one whom I should not well like of, I have bethought me of a wife for thée, by whom the worthiness of thy Linage shall be advanced. Fortunatus answered, saying: Graci­ous Lord, truth it is, that I am disposed to marry, and meant to have espyed out a wife for my liking, but forasmuch as I now perceive that your Grace will vouchsafe so far to debate your Royal estate, as to provide so favourably for me, I will no farther seek nor be careful, but will gladly put my whole trust and confidence in your Majesties assignment. When he had this answer of Fortunatus, and was also assured of the Earls assent who had committed to him his daughters, he thought in his mind, a Mar­riage is here easie to be made, and said to For­tunatus as ensueth.

I have in my custody three fair Ladies, which be all Sisters by one Father, and one Mother: The eldest is eighteen years of age named Ger­mana; the second is seventeen years old, called Marcepia; the third of the second lacketh four years, whose name is Cassandra, I will permit thee of these three to have thy choice: therefore advise thee whether thou wilt see them one af­ter another, or view them altogether. Fortuna­tus made no long deliberation, but said: My So­veraign Lord, six hence your grace granteth me such free choice, I require of your Majesty that I may see them all three standing together, and hear each of them speak.

The King granted his request, and sent word presently to the Queen, that she should cause her Ladies to be trimmed in the best attire, for that he would come thither, and bring a Guest with him. When the King thought all things were ready, he would have taken Fortunatus alone with him, who entreated the King, say­ing: if it please your Grace, suffer also this old servant of mine to go with me: the King grant­ed: so took they Leopoldus with them, and came into the chamber where the Ladies were.

THe King there setting down with Fortu­natus standing by him, called the thrée vir­gins before his presence. They Reverently kneeling before him, he willed them to stand up, and said first to the eldest: Tell me Germa­na, hadst thou lever remain with the Queen, or with the Earl thy Father, and the Countess thy Lady Mother? She answered: My So­veraign Lord, it is not meet for me to answer that question: and although I might choose, yet would I not follow my own Fantasie: but that your Grace and my Lord and Father do Command, the same ought I to Obey. Then spake he to the second, saying: Marcepia, tell me truly which thou lovest best, the Earl thy Father, or the Countess thy Mother. She [Page] likewise answered, Let your grace pardon me for it is not convenient to give my resolution to this demand. I love them both well, and with all my heart; if I loved the one better than the other, I should be sorry my Heart should know it, and ashamed that my Mouth should confess it: for I have found in them both as much natural love and friendship, as a Daughter might look for of her parents. Then moved the King the youngest to speak, saying: answer me Cassandra unfeignedly to this que­stion. If there were here in our Court a com­pany of noble and worshipful men and women preparing to dance, your Father and Mother standing by, if one of them say stand forth and dance with them, and the other bid step aside, and appear not among them, whose command­ment wouldest thou obey? She replyed, saying: Let not your Majesty be offended, your Groce [...] knoweth that I am but young, and that [...] cometh not before age: your Majesty may also consider the affections and desires of Youth, therefore it is not for me to disclose my un­known determination in this doubt; For [...] I obey the one, I must needs displease the other, which I were very loath to do. But yet urged the King farther, asking, if either of them must needs be done, whom had you rather to please? Then said Cassandra, may it please your High­ness to grant me a year and a day to delibe­rate of this question, that I may ask counsel of wiser than I am, to give you a direct an­swer. [Page 87] With that the King ceased asking, and troubled them no more. Then went the King aside into another Chamber with Fortunatus, and said unto him: Thy desire was to see these three Ladies, and to hear them speak, which I have shewed thee to the uttermost: now there­fore determine with thy self which of them thou thinkest meet to be thy Spouse. Fortu­natus answered: I like them all so well (my Liege) that I cannot so suddenly advise me which I may choose. Wherefore I beseech your Majesty, to grant me but a little space to con­fer and consult with my old and trusty servant Leopoldus therein. The King therewith was well content, and so let him depart aside to de­liberate of the matter.

Then Fortunatus withdrawing himself into a secret place, said to Leopoldus: Thou hast seen and heard these three Ladies as will as I, and forasmuch as I consider that in matters consisting of meer Fantasie, reason and right judgement be often abandoned by wilful af­fection, therefore do I first require thy opini­on also in this case, before I proceed to farther choice, desiring thee to councel me, even as the Case were thine own. Leopoldus being somewhat abashed with this Demand, said, Sir, It is not for you to regard my judge­ment in this Point: For many times one Brother liketh of that which is Displea­sant unto the other; and most often it chanceth that every Singular man hath a [Page] particular judgment, and that especially in the choice of a woman. Therefore your own af­fection in this case should be more acceptable, than any forreign councel: for that good liking is the root of sound love. Then said Fortunatus: Of all this full well I wot, and that I take a Wife for my self and for no other: But yet would I fain that thou shouldest disclose the secrets of thy heart unto me, for thy experience is far greater than mine, to judge the inward disposition by the outward marks and tokens of Physiognomy, which often proveth true.

Leopoldus was very loath to move him any way, fearing lest if he did not counsel him as his Fancy was before bent, he would there­with be discontented. Howbeit thus much he said: Sir, They all three like me very well; and as far as I can guess, they be ei­ther sisters, or sisters Children: neither do I mark any tokens of unfaithfulness in them. Then asked Fortunatus of which of them he thought best? Leopoldus answered: I will not first counsel, neither shall you first choose, lest if I should mislike that you best fancied, you might be offended. Therefore take we each of us a piece of Paper, and therein let us write both our minds asunder, you at one end of the Table, and I at the other. This device liked Fortunatus well, and so did both accord­ingly.

When as they had read in each others wri­ting, [Page 89] that Cassandra was of them both fanci­ed more than the rest. Fortunatus was glad that the same liked Leopoldus, which liked him: and Leopoldus also rejoyced that he had most preferred the Lady whom his Master had chosen. When Fortunatus had thus determined with himself, with the advice also of Leopol­dus, he went again unto the King, and said: my Soveraign Lord and King, forasmuch as your Grace hath assigned unto me a choice, which (though it were not, as indeed it is, very ac­ceptable unto me) I ought to take it in good part, esteeming my self not unworthy thereof: I therefore humbly present unto your Grace my faithful service in all your affairs; and will imploy my whole might and power to recom­pence your benevolence. And to satisfie your Majesty as concerning my determination, I give you now to understand; that by your fa­vour and license, I have chosen Cassandra the youngest sister for my Spouse, if so it like your Majesty to grant me. The King said, thy re­quest is granted, and so sent presently for the Queen to bring Cassandra with her. When the Quéen and Cassandra were come, the King sent for a Prelate, and caused them to be Married incontinently: Wherewith Cassandra was scantly well content, for that she was so sudden­ly wedded without the consent or presence of her Parents; howbeit the King would needs have it so. Now when the wedding was finished; the Sisters of the Bride, with many other La­dies [Page 90] and Virgins, with courteous salutations wished under her good luck; but yet the two sisters wept bitterly. Fortunatus demanding the cause of their mourning, comforted them, saying: Be of good chear, lament not at your sisters good fortune, lest you be rather sus­pected of envious disdain, than commended for natural kindness: hope the best, and I will ere long somewhat case you of your sor­row. With that he sent forthwith to Fama­gosta for the Iewels that he bought at Venice, and gave two of the best to the King and the Queen, and to the Bride and her two Si­sters each of them one, which were also very sumptuous, fair, and beautiful: And on every one of the Queens waiting Ladies bestowed he a precious Iewel also, for the which they all greatly thanked him, and marvelled at his bountiful liberality. The King then sent for the Earl of Nemian, and the Countess, his Wife. Fortunatus understanding thereof, sent Leopoldus together with the Messengers, and delivered to him a thousand Duckats to give unto the Countess; and willed him to say un­to her, that her Daughters Husband hath sent her that present, that she might come with a chearful Countenance to the Wedding Feast of Cassandra: The Countess at the first bearing of this Message, was displeased, because Fortunatus had chosen the Youngest, which [...]e loved more tenderly than the other: But w [...]en Leopoldus had given her the money, her [Page 91] choller was soon allaied, and her Displeasure pacified; so that she and the Earl prepared themselves with gorgeous Attire, and all o­ther comely Furniture accordingly to go to the Court, where they were received of the King very honourably. Their lodging also was prepared exceeding sumptuously, and of all kind of delicate fare they had great plenty: Insomuch that the Earl said to his Wife; as often as we have repaired unto this Court, such honour was never done unto us before: wherefore sithence our King is become so gra­cious unto us, and hath ordained such a puissant Husband for our Daughter, we be much bound to render thanks unto the Omnipotent God. And as they were all assembled together, the King said unto Fortunatus; now resteth only the Wedding Feast to be ordained, which I mean to have kept in my own Palace. Then spake Fortunatus: May it like your Grace to grant me so much, as that I may Solem­nize the same at Famagosta, in my new Lodg­ing, wherein never was yet any triumphant Pastime. The King said: Not so, lest the Lord Nemian and you should be over-much charged. Fortunatus again replied, saying: no cost, be it never so great, shall either grudge or grieve me, therefore I beseech your Maje­sty vouchsafe to honor my feast with your own person, and the presence of the Queens Grace, and all the Noble and Worshipfvl Retinue of your Highness Court: and although perhaps [Page 92] I cannot give sufficient Entertainment in all points correspondent to the worthiness of such princely and noble estate: yet I will undoubt­edly so provide, that there shall be nothing ne­cessary wanting, which money can procure.

WHen the King heard Fortunatus make such a bountiful and magnificent prof­fer, he thought to himself; I would gladly see his behaviour, and said unto him: be it as thou hast requested; ride home before to make pre­paration, and I will shortly come with the Queen, thy Father and Mother-in-Law, with thy spouse, and with all our retinue. Fortunatus was thereof glad, thanking the King, and said: Your Grace shall not need to be long absent, for in three days I shall be ready for your com­ming. So rode he forthwith to Famagosta, and there made provision as magnificently as he could devise. After the fourth day, the King came to Fortunatus house, with no small num­ber of noble estates: where at the first entrance they were triumphantly received with sundry kinds of melody, and musical harmony, and with many delectable and pleasant shews to delight their senses, the house also being triml [...] compacted, and so gorgeously garnished, that it was most glorious to behold. Thus con­tinued [Page] they the whole day, and most part of the night, with feasting, banquetting, and dancing, after the most sumptuous manner that might be devised, until Fortunatus and fair Cass [...]ndra were brought to their Chamber: And in like manner continued the space of fourteen days after. But notwithstanding the Countess, the Brides Mother had seen this Royalty, and all things so sumptuously accomplished, yet was not she fully satisfied, because Fortunatus had no Land nor yearly Revenues, and so signified unto her Husband the Earl, who said: trouble not your self therewith, for there is no doubt but that he will sufficiently provide for your Daughter. On the next morrow went the King, the Earl, and the Countess, and request­ed him that he would assign some certain dow­ry unto Cassandra, what casualty soever might befal. Then said Fortunatus, I have neither Land, Lordship, nor yearly Revenues; but I will give to her five thousand Duckats in ready money, wherewith I will put you (my Lord and Father) in trust, to purchase for her some mannor-house with Lands, where you and she shall think most convenient. Then said the King: I wot well how it is best to do in this matter. Here is the Earl of L [...]gorn, which is forced of necessity to sell a parcel of his Li­ving for ready Money: He hath a Castle and a Town three miles hence called Larganenbo at the Rainbow; the same you may buy of him, with the Title that he hath both of [Page 94] the Land and People. So sent they presently for the Earl, who was contented to bargain with them for seven thousand Duckats. For­tunatus therfore without delay told out the money, and the Earl of Legorn concluded with him to yield up all his right, title, interest, and jurisdiction that he had, in, or to the Countiship Castle, and Town of Legorn unto Cass [...]ndra, and never to make more challenge thereto. When this matter was throughly accomplish­ed, then was the Countess in all points well pleased.

NOw lest the time whilest the King there remained, should seem tedious Fortunatus ordained three Iewels; the first valued at six hundred Duckats, for the which the Nobility and chief Champions of Chivalry should Iust three days, and he that did best, freely to pos­sess the same. The second was worth four hundred Duckats, provided for Squires and Gentlemen. The third prised at two hundred Duckats, appointed for servitors and yeomen: for the which, each degree for three days space should orderly contend; and to him that did best should the jewels be frankly given. Thus every man extending his manly force to the uttermost trial, they spent every Day three [Page 95]

hours in justing: and the rest of the day, and great part of the night, they passed merrily in Banquetting, Dancing, Masking, and other such like Revels. Now when this sumptuous Feast, and triumphant pastime had continued the space of fourteen days, the King with all his Train and Retinue would depart, whom Fortunatus fain would have had to continue longer, especially his Father and Mother in Law: But they would in no wise stay, fear­ing lest through over-much cost and charges, he might run too far in the lurch. When the King should depart, Fortunatus with all his men brought him on his way: and when he took his leave of them, he gave great thanks unto the King, the Queen, and the Nobility, for that they had so vouchsafed to Honour [Page 96] his Wedding Feast with their acceptable pre­sence, and so returned home again to Cassandra. After this he prepared yet another feast, invit­ing thereto all the Citizens, both men, women, and children; which also continued eight days, whereby he won great favour and friendship of all the inhabitants of Famagosta. When that Feast was likewise ended, he purposed from thenceforth to lead a quiet life with fair Cassan­dra, and in this wise spake to his old servant Leopoldus: Dear friend, according to my pro­mise when I first entertained thee, I will now propose the choice of three things unto thee, wherein shew me thy mind, and I will surely perform it accordingly.

First, If thou be disposed to return into Ireland again, then will I give thee four ser­vants to bring thee worshipfully thither, and will give thee also as much money in thy purse, as shall maintain a competent living for thee and thine during thy life: Or if thou list hereto remaine Eamagosta, I will provide thee a House, and allow thée yearly as much as shall maintain thrée servants, and two mai­dens to attend on thee, and will not suffer thée to want during thy life: or if thou wilt still a­bide in house with me, thou shalt have all things that are necessary, as good as I my self. Now choose of these three proffers which thou likest best, and I will faithfully perform my promise in either of them.

Then said Leopoldus: This is much more [Page 97] than I have deserved either of God or Man, that such honour and courtesie should be proffered to me in my old Age: wherefore I yield to you as hearty thanks as one man may tender to another.

But as concerning this choice; to ride home again, for one of my years, it is very painful and unmeet; and perhaps I may dye by the way; yea, though I might come safely home, Ireland being a hard and uncivil country, where are no good wives, nor delicate victuals well prepar­ed, whereto I have been long accustomed, my life (most like) would be the sooner shortned. And to remain still in houshold with you, for me is more unfit: For whereas you have now a Fair young lusty Wife, many goodly Gen­tlewomen and jolly Fellows about you. I be­ing old and feeble, shall be loathsome unto them; for the behaviour of old men, is irk­some unto the younger sort. Howbeit I mi­strust not your vertuous disposition. There­fore if it shall please you, I especially request you to buy me a house in the City, wherein I may end my life; beseeching you notwithstand­ing, that I may not be secluded from your coun­sel, so long as we both live. Fortunatus thereto yielded, not attempting any weighty cause without his advice so long as he lived. He also bought him a house according to his desire, gave him men & maidens, & alow'd him for his charg­es an hundred duckats every month. Leopol­dus was glad to be frée at his own liberty, to eat [Page 98] or drink, rise or go to bed when he lifted, and not bound to any kind of service. Nevertheless he went daily to the Church, there to shew him­self to Fortunatus, and other his attendants, when need required; whereby appeared his fi­delity. When Leopoldus had now lived half a year in his estate, he was taken with a grie­vous sickness, which when no Physitians could remedy, soon after he died, whereof Fortunatus was exceeding sorry, causing him to be wor­shipfully buried in his own Church.

FOrtunatus and Cassandra his wife now liv­ing in joyful and happy Estate, found lack of no earthly thing but only of Children; for he knew that the vertue of his Purse would end after his decease, if he had no lawful heirs of his body: howbeit he made not his wife a coun­sel thereof, but prayed daily together with her, that God would make them Fruitful. Inso­much that the Lord hearing their requests, Cassandra was conceived with a Son, whom they Baptized with the Name of Ampedo. Shortly after she came with Child again, and brought forth another Son, which was Chri­stened by the name of Andolocia. Thus For­tunatus was not a little joyful, that he had now two such fair and well-proportioned chil­dren, [Page 99] whom he and his Espouse trained up care­fully, and tenderly loved: Howbeit Andolo­cia was always of stouter courage than Ampe­do, as after it appeared. And although Fortuna­tus would gladly have had more Children by Cassandra (especially a daughter or twain also) yet from thence forth she conceived no more by him.

FOrtunatus having now lived joyfully with Cassandra twelve years, and perswading with himself that it was unlikely he should have any more Children, it seemed irksome and grievous unto him to abide any longer at Famagosta, though he there wanted no kind of pleasant Recreation and Pastime; but pur­posed to travel among the Heathen, through both the greater and lesser India, and over all the Kingdoms of Prester John: For the which he demanded the good will of Cassandra, and told her, that forasmuch as he had already ran­ged through one half of the earth, he was mind­ed to see the other half also, though he should lose his life thereby. When Cassandra heard him so earnestly bent to depart so far from her, she lamentably entreated him to de­sist from his purposed Voyage, saying: If you thus without cause will adventure your quiet estate, it is no other likelyhood, but that [Page 100] you will greatly repent it. For although here­tofore you have passed throughout most Christi­an Nations in your youthful, strong, and lusty age, yet now you being long accustomed to a quiet life, may not so well endure to travel in these elder years into the Savage and Heathen Countries, who also be most envious, unfaith­ful, and tyrannous to all Christians; therefore oh my well-beloved Fortunatus, oh my dear and faithful spouse, on whom I repose all my trust, I beseech thee for Gods sake, and the love thou owest unto me, that having respect unto thy Wife and Children, thou wilt cast out of thy mind such dangerous and unneedful travel, and abide still with us; and if I have displeased you in any thing, or have done ought that misliked you, let me understand of it, and I will endea­vour to eschew the same: with that she wept bitterly, and shewed her self very sorrowful. Then said Fortunatus, my dearly beloved bed-fellow, take not the matter so grievously, I in­tend to be but a small time absent, and when I return, from thenceforth I will continue with you so long as we both live. Then said Cassan­dra, If I were sure of your return, I would pa­tiently abide your departure: Or if you went else-where than amongst an unfaithful people that coveteth the blood of Christians, it shou [...]d the less grieve me. Then said Fortunatus, I am so fully minded to accomplish this journey, that no creature save God and death only shall alter my pretence: howbeit at my departure I [Page 101] will leave you so much ready money, as shall maintain you and your Children during your lives, though I never come again. When Cas­sandra perceived that no entreaty would pre­vail, she said: Well-beloved husband, sithence it cannot be otherwise, I beseech you hasten your return, and let not the love and faithfulness which you have hither shewed, be banished out of your heart, and we will all pray unto the Lord day and night, that you may have health, peace, and good weather, and favour of all them with whom you shall be conversent, and under whose power you shall fall. Then said Fortuna­tus; God grant your prayer take effect, and I trust to return the sooner.

SOon after Fortunatus taking leave of his Wife and Children, desiring God to bless them all, departed in a Ship of his own, and sailed to Alexandria; where when they had at­tained licence to come on land, they were de­manded who was Lord of the Ship, to whom they answered: That Fortunatus of Famagasta in the Isle of Cyprus was the only owner there­of: then required they Fortunatus to be brought into the Kings presence, to present a Gift unto him; for such was the Custom there: And every Merchant at his first arrival at Alexan­dria, should give some present unto the Soul­dan. [Page 102]

Wherefore the Courtiers were ready and diligent to bring him unto the Court: where he willed a Cup-Board to be prepared, and thereon he set many fair and costly Iewels for the King to behold. When the Souldan came forth and beheld them, he marvelled, supposing they were brought to be sold: And thereupon enquiring the price of them. Fortu­natus again caused to be demanded of the Soul­dan whether they liked him? The Souldan an­swered, I have not lightly seen fairer, therefore I cannot but like them well. Then requested Fortunatus that his Grace would take them in good worth for that he would freely give them all unto him: when the King heard that, he marvelled that one Merchant should present [Page 103] him with such a rich gift; for he esteemed them worth 5000 Duckats, which he thought was a sufficient Present for the Commonalty and [...]att of a whole City, such as Venice, Florence, or Genua: Howbeit he would not refuse them, but accepted it for a gift, recompencing him with an hundred barrels of Pepper, which a­mounted to the value of the Iewels. When the Factors of Venice, Florence, and Genua, and Catholonia (who were then at Alexandria) had heard that the King had given unto For­tunatus such a reward; forasmuch as they abid­ing there continually, brought great commo­dity unto the Realm, and gave Gifts once or twice a year unto the King, and yet none of them at any time received any reward, great or small, they envied Fortunatus. Besides that, he bought all the best Merchandize, not sticking at any price: Wherefore they fearing their Hinderance, sought to bring Fortu­natus in displeasure with the Souldan. Where­upon they gave unto the Lord Admiral great Gifts, to the end he might conceive the worse of Fortunatus, and so Discredit him to the King. But Fortunatus having intelligence thereof, gave unto him privily every time so much more than they. This fell out well for the Admiral, who took Money on both Parties, and yet did what he thought good, and was nevertheless friendly unto Fortu­natus; wishing that many more such would come unto Alexandria. After Fortunatus [Page 104] had been there certain days, behaving himself very worshipfully: the King invited him and the chief Masters of the Ship to Dinner, giv­ing them honourable entertainment, which grieved the Merchants greatly. Soon after the Admiral did in like manner feast them: And then did the Merchants plainly perceive that their gifts were in vain bestowed; for the which they inwardly fretted. When the time drew nigh that the Ship must needs depart, for the custom was, that no vessel might stay at Alexandria above six weeks, (whether he had sold or not.) Fortunatus had appointed another Patron over his Ship in his stead, whom he charged to sail with his Merchandize to Ca­thalonia, Portugal, Spain, Flanders, and Eng­land, and to augment his stock by exchange of Wares at all those Coasts. He also charged him, that after two years he should repair a­gain with the Ship unto Alexandria: For in the mean while he purposed to sée many strange Countries, and at the two years end would he there meet him again: but if they found him not there, that they should make no account that he were alive, then they should return to Famagosta, and there deliver the ship and the goods into the possession of his Wife Cassandra and his Children; which Commandment of his, the Patron faithfully promising to accom­p [...]ish, took his leave and so departed.

FOrtunatus forthwith made request unto the Lord Admiral, that he would procure him of the Souldan a sport, a guide, and letters of com­mendation to those Princes and Monarks, by whom he minded to travel. The Admiral ac­complished his request in all respects, whereof he was glad, and incontinently furnished him­self and all that should accompany him with all things necessary & expedient at his own char­ges; & so made his first journey through the land of Persia; from thence he passed through the do­minions of the great Cham of Cathay, and so through the desart, came to the Court of Prester John, who had under him, both of the Isles and firm Land lxxii Kings, every one of the which Countries is full of People, fair Cities, and strong holds: There Fortunatus gave unto Pre­ster John many goodly Iewels and presents, such as were rare and strange in those Coun­tries. He gave also many gifts unto the Gen­tlemen of the privy Chamber, and such as were in authority; requesting them to assist and further him, that he might take up certain Men, and have the Kings Letters to address him to Calicuate, whereas the best Pepper groweth like unto Grapes, and the men of the [Page 106] country for extream heat go all naked. Fortu­natus therefore not able for parching heat to travel any farther that way, and now remem­bring his beloved wife and his two sons, long­ed to be at Famagosta, and so returted a contra­ry way homeward, through many other strange Countries, until he came to the City Lamecha; and there bought a Chamel, whereon he rode through the desart of Jerusalem, to see the ho­ly Monuments of our Saviours Passions. The time whereas he appointed to be again at Alexandria was nigh at hand, within two months: wherefore he took shipping to abridge his Iourney, and made hast away, until he was arrived again at Alexandria; where he went presently unto the Souldan, thanking him and the Lord Admiral highly for their Letters; by whom he was entertained very honourably, when they understood that he had so manly behaved himself, and had seen so many strange Countries.

When Fortunatus had been now eight days at Alexandria, having there with him many strange beasts and other rare Novelties, he longed greatly for the Ship, that he might set forward to Famagosta. In the mean time was the ship arrived, laden with so much, and so rich Merchandise, that she was thrice better in value than when she departed, whereof Fortu­natus was exceeding glad, especially for the health of his men, and that they had brought Letters from Cassandra, signifying that she [Page 107] and her Children were in good estate, wanting only his presence. Wherefore he willed his Merchants to make a speedy sale, and to afford these wares better cheap than they commonly used. And in so doing, as they were willed, whereas other ships do scant make their Mart in six weeks, they dispatched all their business in twenty days, when as Fortunatus would have presently taken his leave and departed: But the Souldan requested him to stay with him at Supper the night before he departed, which he could not refuse, but willed his men to go aboard, and to lanch out the Ship from the Haven into the Rode, appointing present­ly after supper to come unto them, and so to de­part. In the mean while went Fortunatus with the Admiral unto the Kings Palace, where he was worthily entertained. Then communed the Souldan with him concerning his Affairs and success in strange Nations, which he ut­tered at large, thanking him again for his Letters of address, saying: That by them he was greatly furthered, and the more accepted of strange Princes. By this time was the sup­per ready; the King was set at the Table, and Fortunatus was placed almost over against him, where they were served with all kind of delicate fare, as was convenient for such a Mighty Prince.

VVHen supper was ended, Fortunatus craved licence to bestow his benevo­lence on the houshold, which the Souldan gran­ting, he opened his purse privily under the Ta­ble: and when he had given to every man in the house a large gift, according to their degrée, the Souldan marvelled with himself how he could bear so much Gold about him unperceived, e­stéeming it a great honour done to him, that he had béen so liberal to his servants, saying: right [Page 109] courteous Gentleman, this your bountiful be­haviour, and liberal disbursing towards me and all mine, deserveth no small commendation and recompence: come therefore with me, and I will shew you that before you go, which few or none doth know but my self, and the like whereof you never saw: With that he brought him unto a strong Tower, vaūted all with Marble-stone; in the first room whereof were a great number of vessels, and Iewels of Sil­ver, and huge heaps of silver coyns: In the second were many vessels and houshold imple­ments of Gold; and many great Chests full of golden Coyn: within that was a great Ward-rope, full of many costly Iewels and gorge­ous garments, beautified with precious stones of all sorts, belonging to the ornaments for his Body: There were also two golden Candle­sticks, upon which stood two orient and great Carbuncles, which shone in the night all over the Chamber. Fortunatus was rapt with great admiration to behold this infinite Treasure, praising it greatly: Then said the Souldan, I have yet a jewel in my Chamber which I more esteem than all those you have seen: Then the King carried him to his own Bed-chamber, which was sumptuously adorned, having a prospect unto the main Sea, and there opening a closet, brought forth in his hand a plain Felt hat, base and simple to behold, saying: I set more by this Hat, than by all the Precious Iewels that I possess, for that if I had no Iew­els, [Page 110] money would get them, but such an Hat is not to be had.

Then said Fortunatus, if it so please your Majesty, I would gladly know what power and vertue consisteth in this hat. The King said, it hath this quality, that whosoever hath it on his head, where he wisheth then to be, he is with a thought conveyed thither; so that with the fame have I more pleasure than with all my je­wels: for when my men go forth to hunt, and I long to be with them, setting my Hat on my head, where the best game is to be seen, I am there suddenly present: and where the Deer resteth, I can be there when I list, to drive them to the hunters hand. In time of wars also, I can be with my Souldiers when I lift, and in my Palace again w th a wish, which all my Iewels cannot do. Then demanded Fortuna­tus, if he that made that Hat were yet alive: The King said, of that I am uncertain. Then thought Fortunatus in his mind: How well would this Hat agree with the Purse [...] and said unto the King: Methinks, sithence that Hat hath such great vertue, that it would seem very heavy on his head that weareth it. Then an­swered the King, that it was no heavier than another Hat, and therewith bid him to essay it on his head, asking him whether he fe [...]t it o­therwise. Fortunatus answered, saying: Verily I did not think it had been so light, neither sup­posed I that your Grace wou d be so unadvised to set it on my head: with that he suddenly [Page 111] wished himself into his ship, willing speedily to hoise the sail, and having a fresh gale of wind, they sailed swiftly away: when the Souldan saw he was thus deceived of such an incomparable Iewel, perceived also at the window that the ship was under sail, he in great rage comman­ded his men to set after Fortunatus, and to bring him back prisoner, threatning to him a cruel death. But ere they could be scantly ap­pointed, the ship was clean passed out of sight; so that the Messengers returned again in vain, whereof the King was exceeding sorry.

Now when the Factors of Venice, Florence, and Genua understood that Fortunatus was gone with the Kings Iewel, they inwardly re­joyced, saying among themselves: The King and the Admiral are but very wel served; for whereas they thought they could not do unto him too much honour, he hath therefore yield­ed them a fair recompence: but yet are we now sure that he will not return hither again to hinder our Marts as he hath done. Now the Souldan being thus in a great agony for his Hat, would gladly have devised how to obtain it again, but wist not how to attempt the matter.

To send his Admiral, or any of his heathen Lords among the Christians, he thought it both dangerous and little available: where­fore he thought best to send the Captain of the Chrstians in his Embassage unto Cyprus, [Page 112] to deal by way of entreaty. Wherefore he called the Captain unto him, who was a Venetian, named Marcholandus, requesting him to accom­plish an Embassage faithfully unto Fortunatus in Cyprus: and shewing him the case before, wil­led him to say unto Fortunatus, that if he would vouchsafe of courtesie to send him the hat again, sithence he shewed it him upon trust, he would accept it thankfully, and would send his Ship a­gain laden with costly spices: but if he would not be so entreated, that he should make his complaint unto the King of Cyprus, requesting him to enforce Fortunatus to send the Iewel which he had unfaithfully carried from him: the Captain promised truly and diligently to do his message. Whereupon the Souldan caus­ed to be ordained for him a fair and strong ship, well manned with Christian Marriners, in all points sufficiently appointed, promising unto him rich rewards if he could bring the Hat a­gain. But the Souldan was so dismaid that he could take no [...]e [...], whereat his servitors were very sorry, who praised Fortunatus highly when he dealt so liberally with them; but when he had thus disquieted their King, they said, he was the naughtiest man that ever lived.

MArch olandus being arrived in Cyprus, tame to Famagosta, where Fortunatus [Page 113] was come home ten days before. But how joy­fully he & his company were received of Cassan­dra, of his two children, & of all the City, it were tedious to report: for there were many citizens also, whose friends were landed with Fortu­natus, that had travelled far with him; which mirth and joy Mercholandus well perceived. And when Fortunatus understood that an Em­bassador was come from the Souldan, to Fama­gosta, he easily deemed what was his errand: howbeit he caused a fair lodging to be appoint­ed for him, and all other things requisite, wil­ling his provision to be brought in, which he would discharge. When Marcholandus had bin now three days in Famagosta, he sent word un­to Fortunatus, that he had a message to do unto him. Fortunatus willed him to come unto his fair Palace, where he did his Message: say­ing: The King Souldan of Babylon, Lord of Alcary and Alexandria, sendeth his greeting to thee Fortunatus, by me Marcholandus: requi­ring that thou wilt vouchsafe to let me be a speedy Messenger, and send unto him his Jewel again by me. Fortunatus answered in scotting manner, saying: I marvel that the King Soul­dan was so uncircumspect to tell me the vertue of the Hat, and also himself to set th [...] same up­on my head; by occasion whereof I was in such Danger, that it will never be out of my remembrance so long as I live: For my Ship being at rode on the Sea, and upon his saying. I wishing my self therein, if it had then failed [Page 114] by the way, I had been drowned, and so have lost my life, which I esteem more than all the King Souldans Kingdom; and therefore am I minded not to depart from the Iewel so long as I live. When Marcholandus heard this answer, he thought by fair entreaty to per­swade him: Wherefore he said unto him; Fortunatus, be not so hard-hearted, but advise you by reason and counsel: What profit can you make of the Iewel? I will warrant you an hundred times the Value of that pild Hat, whereof if I had a sackful, and each of them had the vertue that it hath, I would give them all for the third part of that I shall procure you for the same: Wherefore let me speed I be­seech you of my message, and I will promise you that the King shall lade your Ship with the finest Spices; as Pepper, Ginger, Cloves, Nutmegs, and Cinnamon, and such-like: the which may be worth an hundred thousand Duckats. Besides that, shall it be granted you not to yield the Hat before you have the said Spices delivered into your Possession. Therefore if it please you on this Condition to agree, I will my self go with your ship to Alexandria, and bring it home unto you load­en, trusting unto you, that when I bring that I have promised, you will likewise yield o­ver unto my Gracious Lord the King, his Iewel again.

Fortunatus answered, saying: I would fain be in the Kings friendship, and in yours also, [Page 115] but let no man perswade with himself that he shall get the Hat out of my hands so long as my life endureth.

Vpon these words Marcholandus trusted no more to entreaty, but wrathfully departed unto the King of Cyprus, to whom he made his com­plaint, requesting his Majesty that he would en­force Fortunatus his subject to restore again to the Souldan the Iewel which he had most de­ceitfully gotten, and now wrongfully detained: saying, that if it were not by fear means re­stored, great Wars were like thereof to ensue. The King said again to M [...]rcholandus, I have Princes and Lords in my Kingdom, whom though I command, they will do what they list: But if your King have any just Complaint or Quarrel against Fortunatus, let him deal with him as he thinketh good; for I would that he should have Iustice as he hath deserved.

Marcholandus then supposing with himself that the Heathen in Cyprus should have but slender justice, returned to Famagosta, there to take shipping and depart. But Fortuna­tus notwithstanding, at his return bad him to Dinner, entertaining him sumptuously. He gave also unto him many goodly Iewels, and freighted his Ship with sufficient Vi­ctuals, at his own charge, saying unto him: Have me commended unto the Souldan, and tell him; That if he had such a Hat of mine in like manner, I suppose he would not [Page 116] send it me again, neither would his councel perswade him so to do: likewise am I advised by my friends and my own reason, not to de­part from it, so long as I may kéep it.

The Marcholandus thanked Fortunatus for his courteous entertainment, and his cost­ly gifts, saying: he would so signifie unto the King, and departed sorrowful for his cold suit.

Fortunatus having now passed over most part of the World, and wanting almost no earth­ly Commodity that man might wish; he be­gan to tender the advancement of his own and his Childrens estates; maintaining a Prince­ly port, procured Masters and Men of facul­ties to instruct his Children, especially in Learning, and in feats of Chivalry, whereto the youngest was most inclined, behaving him­self manfully; for which cause Fortunatus be­stowed many Iewels, for the which was much Iusting at Famagosta, wherein the Youngest Son had always the chief praise: Whereupon the common people would say, that Andolocia did honour to the whole Coun­try: Fortunatus therefore rejoyced, passing his days in great solace with the pastime and pleasure that he conceived with the Hat, and also by Hawking, with Andolocia and fair Cassandra. When they had thus many years enjoyed all earthly pleasures, Fair Cassan­dra was summoned with a Grievous and Deadly Sickness, to yield up her immor­tal [Page 117] Soul from the transitory and corruptible Body, were it never so near; whereof Fortu­natus also conceived such an inward thought, that he languished with a deadly consumption, and an imposthumation in the head. When the feeble estate of his Body put him in fear of death, he sent far and near for the best Physi­tians that might be had; but they only pro­longed his life for a small time, but could give him no comfort of recovery.

FOrtunatus therefore perceiving no amend­ment, but rather that Death approached, [Page 118] sent for his two Sons, Ampedo and Andolo­cia, saying to them, My dear Children, your Mo­ther that so carefully trained you up, is depart­ed out of this world, and I likewise perceive by the feebleness of my tormented body, that death is nigh at hand; therefore I will shew you how you may continue in honour and wealth as I have do [...]e until my dying day. With that he declared unto them the vertue of the Purse, and that it should last no longer than their two lives; and also told them the vertue of the Hat, and how much the Souldan would have given for it. He commanded moreover that they should not part the Iewels, but use them in common friendly together, neither that they should make any person privy to the vertue of the purse, were she or he never so well beloved unto them: for so said he, have I concealed it this xl. years, and never uttered it save now to you only: With that he ceased speaking, and gave up the Ghost; whom his Sons caused to be honourably buried in the Minster which he had erected.

Ampedo and Andolocia, having now left off all kind of martial Exercises, and mourned twelve months for the death of their Father: Andolocia having read over his fathers books, wherein was registred in how many Nations he had travelled, was therewith greatly de­lighted, and earnestly moved to do the like. Wherefore he said to Ampedo: My dear bro­ther, that we may not pass these our lusty [Page 119] and youthful years together in vanity, idle­ness, and obscure behaviour; let us travel into strange Countries, to get experience, and pur­chase Honour, as our Father hath done; a memorial whereof he hath left to us in writ­ing, which I greatly de [...]ight to read. Ampedo answered, saying: Let them wander that is disposed; for I mean nothing less, lest per­haps (as most like it is) I should come into many a place where I should gladly wish me at home again: So that (God willing) I am determined to remain here at Famagosta, and to end my life in this fair Palace. Then said Andolocia: Sithence you are so minded, let us part the Iewels. Ampedo said: wilt thou so transgress our Fathers commandment: wotest thou not that by his last will, he charged us that we should not divide them: Andolocia said: What need we care for that? he is dead and we be alive, therefore sithence we mean to part company, let us also divide them.

Then said Ampedo, Take the Hat for thy share, and go whither thou wilt. Andolocia said, take thou it thy self and abide here: thus when they could not agree, for that they both desired the Purse, Andolocia said: Good Brother, then I pray you hearken to my Counsel; which shall be indifferent for us both. We will privily fill two coffers full of gold, where­with thou spending at thy pleasure, maist live merrily during thy Life: Thou shalt have [Page 120] the Hat also to make thee pastime, and let me only have the Purse during the space of six years, wherein I will travel to purchase expe­rience and honour: And at my return thou shalt enjoy the purse at thine own use six years in like manner; thus shall we not break our Fathers Will. Ampedo thinking this to be a reasonable demand, was contented that so it should be.

WHen An [...]olocia had the Purse, he atti­red himself gorgeously, entertained forty tall and comely Men, whom he apparelled at his own cost, after the bravest manner: And taking leave of his Brother he departed in a Ship of his own, and sailed towards France, until he came to the Haven, called Aqua­morte, where he went on Land, and passed to the French Kings Court, where he was well Entertained of the King and all the Courtiers. There he accompanied himself with Earls, Lords, and Knights; for he maintained his Estate as sumptuously as the best of them: Wherefore he was had in great estimation with every man; attending also daily on the King, as if he had been an ordinary Servant. In the mean time it be­fel, that a Challenge was made by certain Lords and Gentlemen, to Iust, Wrastle, [Page 121] and leap with any one that would contend with him: Andolocia advanced himself to try his force in all these Games, wherein he excelled them all. And in the evening when the Nobles and Ladies should dance before the King, he was also called and preferred to Dance with them, wherein likewise he behaved himself so well, and with such a comely grace, that the Gentlewomen had him in great favour, de­lighting to recreate themselves, and pass the time in his company, whereof he was glad, yielding unto them again pleasant communi­cation, and familiar courtesie.

After the Revels was ordained a Banquet, whereto the King also invited Andolocia, and as he sat at the Table, it chanced that he was fuddenly pricked with a passion of hot love to­wards a fair Gentlewoman, whose Husband was most familiar with him of all the other in the Court: Wherefore as soon as he was ri­sen from the Table, without delay or long circumstance, he rounding her in the ear, offered her a thousand Crowns, on condition she would grant to lye with him but one night. The Gentlewoman being a Faithful and Chast Wife, would not Consent thereto, but presently detected the great offer of Ando­locia unto her husband; who said unto her: A thousand Crowns would do us great pleasure, and were soon earned: howbeit honesty pass­eth Riches, and the infamy that thereby to us both might ensue, can with no Money be ta­ken [Page 122] away; notwithstanding (if so be you think it good) we may so use the matter, to have most part of the money without destraining of your own body, by this policy: You know we have a fair and well-proportioned Neighbour, who is nothing nice of her flesh, neither refu­seth any clean mans bed for money; to her you may promise an hundred Crowns to lye with Andolocia in your stead, and the rest may we reserve unto our selves: I need no further to instruct you, for a Woman I trust is not com­monly to seek in such a shift: The Gentlewo­man liked well of this device, and forthwith went unto her Neighbour, saying unto her: So it is, that a fair, lusty, and valiant young Gen­tleman, being a Stranger, offered unto me two hundred Crowns if I would lye with him one night; and forasmuch as my Husband loveth me so dearly, I dare not therein to de­ceive him, lest it cost me my life; therefore if thou [...]arest to adventure in my stead, I will bri [...]g to pass that thou shalt lye with him in my Chamber in my own bed, and will give thée for thy part an hundred Crowns. Then said the arrant honest Woman, I would not stick to lye with such a one for bodily Recrea­tion, and Amorous pleasure only: but if I do this at your Request, you will perhaps send me away with a Crown or twain, and keep the hundred Crowns to your self. The Gentlewoman said: Thou shalt have that I have promised thee before-hand. Then was [Page 123] the bonny Wench well pleased; and willing her to prepare all things accordingly, promised to be ready at a call to Accomplish her Will. The Gentlewoman declared to her Husband, how she had appointed the matter with her Neighbour, whereof he was glad. Andolocia being not yet satisfied, repaired again unto the Gentlewoman, and was importunate to obtain his suit; to whom the Gentlewoman said: Sir, sithence you will not be otherwise answered, if you will perform your promise concerning the Thousand Crowns, come to morrow night unto my house, and bring the money with you, for my Husband will be then forth about the Kings business. Andolocia with this answer was a joyful man; and next night as he was willed, came privily alone unto the Gentlewomans house, and brought with him the thousand Crowns.

THe Gentlewoman gave him very friend­ly entertainment, and receiving the Mo­ney of him untold, brought him into her Chamber, willing him to go so bed, and she would immediately come unto him. Then sent she hastily for her kind-hearted neighbour, to whom she gave an hundred Crowns, and sent [Page 124] her to bed to Andolocia, where he solaced him­self with her in the pleasant pastime of Venus-game, supposing he had lain with his Compa­nions Wife. But when the Wench perceived that Andolocia was sufficiently delighted with the use of her body (for Joan was as good as my Lady till he knew the contrary) she declared how the Gentlewoman had beguiled him, hi­ring her for an hundred Crowns to take her place.

Andolocia hearing that he was so deceived, waxed angry in his mind, not so much for the loss of the money, but rather for shame that it should be blazed abroad to his reproach, how he was deluded by two Women. Wherefore he forthwith rose up, and gave his Leman an hundred Crowns, willing her that after his departure, she should challenge nine hundred more, which the Gentlewoman wrongfully detained, and that she her self hath duly earn­ed; which the Wench performed with such impudent and open contention, that the Gen­tlewoman for all her pretended honesty being noted for a Baud, sustained great shame. But Andolocia presently went to his lodging, and called up his men, willing them to prepare all things ready, for he would forthwith depart, thinking with himself, I will hereafter beware of the enticing beauty & dissimulation of wo­men, and so rode displeasantly away. When he was now gone ten or twelve miles from Paris, he thought in his mind, it was well the false [Page 125] Harlots had not beguiled me of my Purse, and began to be merry and pleasant, and so rode unto the King of Arragons Court: from thence to the King of Castile: then to the King of Por­tugal: and next to the King of Spain's Court: There did the people and their behaviour like him so well, that he apparelled himself and all his men after their Country Guise; and offer­ing his service unto the King, was thankfully entertained. He daily practised all feats of chi­valry, and oftentimes gave Iewels, for which Gentlemen should contend in martial games, and invited the Ladies and Gentlewomen to many costly Banquets. Moreover when there was any pressing of Souliers, he would set forth an hundred at his own charges, and load them, whereby he was had in great favour and estimation with the King. And forasmuch as he was so active, valiant, and couragious, that he would commonly be in the forefront of the battel, the King dub'd him Knight, and pre­tended otherwise to advance him. Insomuch that whereas there was in the Court, and Old Earl which had one only Daughter, which was his Heir, to her would the King have Married Andolocia, promising him also the Earldom after her Fathers decease. But Andolocia lik­ed not the Earls daughter, neither regarded he the Earldom; for he was rich enough by the vertue of his Purse: When Andolocia had ser­ved the King of Spain certain years, he requi­red leave to depart. The King granted to his [Page 126] request, and told him, that whensoever his plea­sure was to repair to Spain again, he should find him always a friendly and gracious Lord, for his faithful service. Then bought Andolo­cia a ship, wherein he and his men sailed into England, whereof some that envied at his costly and sumptuous behaviour were glad, and many other were sorry, which had received commo­dity by him.

When he was now come to the fair City of London, where the King then kept his Court, he hired a goodly house, and bought all necessary furniture plentifully for it: There he kept an open Court, with liberal hospitality, like as if he had been a Prince, daily feasting the Nobi­lity and Courtiers, to whom he also gave many gifts, and used to just, and practised other martial exercises with them: but in all feats of chivalry, both men and women gave Andolo­cia the praise.

When the King understood of his Noble de­meanours, he demanded whether he would retain to his Court? He answered, That he would most willingly bestow his body and goods in his service. In the mean while it chan­ced that there was wars between England and Scotland; so that Andolocia led a band of men against the Scots, at his own charges, where he behaved himself so couragiously in the bat­tel, that although he was a stranger, yet for his manly exploits, he was commended above all other.

When the victory was obtained upon [...] Scots, Andolocia returned home to London; where he was received of the King and Queen very honourably, and was had in great estima­tion with the people.

THen ordained the King a great Dinner, and invited thereto Andolocia, and all the other Captains, where was also present the Queen and her fair Daughter Agrippina, who surpassed in beauty all the women in England: whom when Andolocia had stedfastly beheld, his Heart was so fervently kindled with the love of her, that he had no more list to eat or drink, were the meats never so delicious or de­licate. When the feast was done, and he was re­turned home to his house, he thought by him­self how he might win the favour of Agrippi­na: wishing that he were of Royal blood, that he might be esteemed Worthy to Marry her: Howbeit he encouraged himself with Hope, to purchase her good Will and Liking by some means or other. Wherefore he advanced him­self from thenceforth in Justing and other Martial exercises before the Queen and her Daughter very often, and in more Gorgeous manner than he was wont, wherewith Fair Ladies be most delighted. And when he [Page 128] thought it convenient, he invited the Queen and her daughter, with many other Ladies of the Court to dinner, which was so sumptuously in all points adorned, that it was wonderful in a subjects house to behold.

He gave also to the Queen a costly Iewel, and another to Agrippina, and to every one of her Waiting Gentlewomen one, that he might be the better Esteemed of Agrippina, when he came to the Court: whereof the King was informed: Insomuch that when Andolo­cia came unto the Court, the King said unto him: I understand by the Queen that she hath been very well and sumptuously entertained at your House: Why had not I also warning thereof?

Andolocia said: Most gracious Lord, if your Majesty would not disdain to honour my poor House with your presence, how acceptable should it be unto me! Then said the King: I will also come to morrow unto you, and bring ten more of my Counsel with me.

Of this was Andolocia very glad, and hast­ed him home to prepare all things accordingly. The next day came the King and the Lords to dinner; where all things were so magnifi­cently accomplished upon so short warning, that the King and such as came with him greatly marvelled thereat. Then thought the King, it were good to abate the pride of Ando­locia, and to make him ashamed; wherefore he appointed the next day also to take his re­creation [Page 129] with Andolocia again, and forthwith sent privy commandment, that no Wood-seller should upon pain of his grievous displeasure, sell or give one stick of Wood, or any kind of fuel unto Andolocia, or any of his retinue, during the space of two days. Howbeit An­dolocia was glad of it, and had prepared all the Delicatest Victuals that was to be had for money: but when he could by no means get any Wood or other fuel, he was sore afraid left he should be utterly shamed, not knowing how the Cooks should dress the meat; but when he saw no other remedy, he sent speedily to the Merchants Ships, and to all the Grocers in London to buy an huge quantity of Canes, Cloves, Nutmegs, Liquorish, Ginger, and Cinamon, which were used in the Chimneys and Ovens, to burn instead of Wood, to dress the Meat. About dinner time, though the King supposed that Andolocia's Kitchin was but simply provided for lack of Fire, yet would he and other Lords that were with him before, ride unto Andolocia's Lodging, where they smelt such an exceeding strong and sweet savour, that they mused whereof it should be. Then the King demanded whe­ther Dinner was ready? it was answered, that all Things were Prepared, and that with sweet Spices instead of Fuel, where­at the King and all the Lords marvelles greatly.

When dinner was done, and the Kings train [Page 130] came to fetch him home, he gave each of his Guard ten Crowns, and so returned the King with his Lords home again, thanking Ando­locia for their sumptuous entertainment.

When the King came unto the Court, he re­counted unto the Queen what a costly dinner they had, and that all the meat was [...]essed with pure spices instead of wood, and that he had given to each of his Guard ten Crowns. Wherefore said the King, I greatly muse, and long to understand from whence, or how he hath such exceeding store of money [...] he spareth for no cost, and is every day more sumptuous and costly.

The Queen said, I know none that I sup­pose could sooner or better understand his secret in that behalf than our Daughter Agripp [...]na: For that, as it seemeth, he loveth her so well, that I believe he will not deny her ought that she shall demand. Then willed the King that the Queen should do her diligence, and use her discretion with her daughter, to put this de­vice in practise. Then went the Queen unto her daughter, and told her in secret of the sum­ptuous and rich Port that Andolocia main­tained, whereat (said she) the King and I do greatly marvel, sithence he hath neither lands, Subjects, nor Kent, (as far as we know) to continue and uphold the same.

Wherefore forasmuch as I perceive by his behaviour in your presence, that he is far in [Page 131] love with you, I would have you when he com­eth next in your company, to delight him with long and friendly communication, and in the end to try whether you can obtain to under­stand of him, whence he getteth such abun­dance of goods: Agrippina promised to do her utmost endeavour in that behalf.

WHen Andolocia came again to the Court, the matter was of purpose so handled, that he was appointed to have secret communion with Agrippina. So that when they thus were all alone, after most friendly [Page 132] salutation, and many courteous proffers offered by Andolocia: Ag [...]ppina said: Sir Andolocia, there goeth an honourable report of your mag­nificence, and how you have Entertained the King with an exceeding Costly Banquet, and have given largely to his Guard: I pray you tell me, do you not fear lest your Money will at length fail? He answered, saying: Gracious Lady, I cannot want money so long as I [...]ive: Then belike (said she) your Father was very puissant, that he hath left you so rich. Andolocia said, I am as rich as my Father, neither was he richer than I am now: howbeit he was otherwise inclined than I am; for his delight was to see strange Countries, but my greatest pleasure is to obtain the love of Fair Women and Ladies. Then said Agrippina, I have been certified that you have been in many Kings and Princes Courts, did you never yet find any there which liked you? Andolocia answered: I have been in six Kings Courts, where I have seen many goodly Ladies and Gentlewomen, but (without Flattery be it spoken) in beauty and comely demeanour you pass all that ever I yet saw: Wherewith you have so ravisht my Heart with Love, that my doubtful Passion engendred between Hope and De­spair, enforceth me to crave a Salve for my Sore: And although I am descended of no Princely Progeny, yet may Love, which hath only Respect of Personal liking, be re­quited [Page 133] with love again on your behalf: if it be my good hap to find such favour with your Grace, beseeching thee not to deny me a medi­cine to heal my wound, that Cupid hath pierced with his poisoned Dart: and whatsoever you shall require of me (in my power consisting) you shall at your pleasure obtain.

Then said Agrippina, tell me the truth un­feignedly Andolocia, from whence thou hast so much money, and riches, and then I'le live in thy love, and yield to thy request.

Andolocia was now glad, and not remem­bring that he had not long before vowed to be­ware of Womens unfaithfulness, said unto her:

My most dearly beloved Agrippina, I will fulfil your desire, on condition you will keep all things secret, and perform your promise. She said: Right well-beloved Andolocia, doubt not you of my fidelity, for what I promise you in words, shall be surely performed in deed. Vpon these sugred words, Andolocia willed her to hold up her lap, and told out a thousand crowns out of his vertuous purse, saying: this do I give you; and can without any hinderance afford you as much as you will have more: for so long as I have this Purse, I do want no money: and now you may believe me that I have uttered the certain truth of that you longed to know. She answered, I see & acknow­ledge this to be so manifest, that I need no more to wonder at your sumptuous expences. [Page 134] Wherefore my beloved Andolocia, forasmuch as on this night the Queen hath appointed to sleep with the King, I will procure with my Chamberlain that you shall lye with me: for without her consent I cannot bring it to pass: Therefore you must reward her largely, that she might consent and be secret. Andoloc [...]a thanking her, promised so to do, and not to fail of his coming at night to her Chamber.

As soon as Andolocia was gone, Agrippina went to the Queen, and shewed her with great joy, how she had gotten knowledge of Andolo­cia, whence he had his abundant wealth, and she had promised him to lye with him that night. The Queen thereof was glad, and said to her: If you can well remember the fashion, the co­lour, and the bigness of the Purse, it were ex­pedient that the like in all points were present­ly made; which they raused to be done with all speed, and slubbered it also to make it seem old. The Queen also caused her Physitians to make a strong Potion, which should sud­denly cast one into a dead sleep. These Iug­ling Tools being thus prepared ready in Agrippinas Chamber, to shew unto Andolocia, a Cast of Legerdemain, they enformed the Chamberlain, that at night when Andolocia came, she should receive him courteously into the Chamber and that when Agrippina and he sat together at their banquet, she should be cir­cumspect to put the drink into Andoloci [...]s Cu [...] [Page 135] that was ordained for him. Andolocia com­ing to the Chamber at the hour appointed, was let in; and friendly entertained by the old Gentlewoman of the Chamber: and soon after came Agrippina, who had him welcome with a chearful countenance, sat down by him, and of­fered much friendly communication; whilest they recreated themselves with many deisci­ous junkets and pleasant wines. Wherefore Agrippina drank unto him, saying: I drink to you this Bole full of Hypocras, more than I commonly am accustomed, in token of my love, requesting you to pledge me as much for my sake.

The Chamberlain filling the Goblet again with the Somnoriferous Potion (having the Rellish of Delicate Hypocras) gave it unto Andolocia, which he Quaffed with a chearful Heart. Whereupon he incontinent­ly fell into such a Sound Sleep, that he might not feel whatsoever was done unto him. Agrippina boldly stepped unto him, opened his Doublet, cut off his Purse, and sewed another instead thereof. Then car­ried she the Purse presently unto the Queen, and putting her hand therein, to try whether it were the right Purse, she pulled out three handfuls of Gold, which the Queen brought in her Lap to the King, and told him how luckely the matter was conveyed, Andolocia being left in a Dead Sleep. The King thereat exceedingly Rejoyced, and [Page 136] requested to have the Purse to his own Custo­dy, lest Agrippina should come in danger there­by. But she alledging the danger that she ad­ventured in the getting of it, if he had awaked on a sudden, requested earnestly of her Father that she might have the keeping of it only for her labour; affirming that the King and Queen both notwithstanding, might have as great commodity by it as she her self: wherewith they were content.

When Andolocia was awaked, and saw none by him but the old chamber-maid, and perceiv­ed that he had slept all night in the chair, he mu­sed greatly, and asked what was become of A­grippina? the old gentlewoman said: the Quéen sent for her, and she is risen: but sir, I marvel much how you could sleep so out of measure: for I often assayed to awake you with great noise and stirring of your body, but all your sences were so benumbed, that if I had not per­ceived breath to issue from your mouth, I should have supposed you had been dead, whereby you have lost your pastime with Agrippina. When Andolocia understood that by drowste sleeping he was so frustrated of his purpose, he began to curse himself, and swear like a Tyrant. The Old Gentlewoman assayed to pacifie his wrath with fair words, saying: Sir, I pray you let reason rule your furious passion, and be contented, for that you have now let pass, may hereafter be obtained at a like opportuni­ty. Andolocia said again, ragingly, a mis­chief [Page 137] light on thee thou old Bawd, why didst thou suffer me to sleep so long? for I never yet slept so long in all my life, but that if I were lightly touched, I did presently awake: But she still affirmed, and thereto swore, that she did her utmost endeavour, and answered him with fair language (for in the evening before, he had given her a hundred Crowns) so that with fair words in the end she brought him out of Agrip­pina's Chamber. Andolocia then went home to his house very sad and displeasant, for that he had so shamefully lost the amorous pastime that he hoped to enjoy with the fair Princes, but he wist not as yet that he had lost his peerless and fortunate Purse.

The King being disposed to try how he would behave himself after the loss of his purse, and whether he had any more of them, sent word to Andolocia, that he would din [...] a­gain with him the next day. Andolocia, being certified thereof, called the Steward, and willed him to prepare a costly Dinner; for that the King would be there on the next mor­row. The Steward answered, that he had dis­bursed much money of sate, and had not suffi­cient store to serve the turn. Then took Andolocia the Purse out of his bosome, and would have Delivered him five Hundred Crowns: but when he groped in his Purse, af­ter his accustained manner, and brought no­thing forth, he turned the inside outward, and felt it throughly, but there was no money to [Page 138] be found. Then was he in a great perplexity, and almost dismayed with bitter anguish and sorrow: calling to mind, how for the contempt of his Fathers advice (that willed him to ut­ter the secrets of the Purse to no creature) he was in this manner plagued; but this re­membrance was now too late, and all his sumptuousness and pride was now quelled, and at an end.

Wherefore he called all his men before him, and said unto them: I have been your Master these ten years, wherein I have so entertained you, that you wanted nothing which was fit for men to have, neither am I debter to any of you, for you be paid all before hand. The time is now come that I can no longer kéep House, and maintain such a stately port as I have done: therefore I must desire you all to provide for your selves; as well as you may: for I may remain here no longer, neither have I any more money left than one hundred and fifty Crowns, whereof I will spare to each of you ten shillings, and will also fréely give to every man his horse whereon he is accustomed to ride, and his harness thereto belonging.

These words made all the men astonished and affraid, looking one on the other, and mar­velled what sudden mischance was happened unto their Master. Whereupon one that was of all the rest most loving, faithful, and trusty unto Andolocia, said, Sir, if any man have done ye [...] displeasure, or betrayed you, let us under­stand [Page 139] of it, and we will be revenged on him, though it were the King himself, and we should lose our lives therefore. Andolocia answered, that on his behalf should no man hazard his life. Then said they: We would be loath in your misery to leave you, but we will rather sell horse, and harness, and all that we have, to re­main with you for your comfort & solace. Ando­locia said: I thank you for your faithful good will, my well-beloved servants: if ever fortune smile on me again, I will requite your courte­ste: but now as I have said, and saddle my horse, forthwith, for I will have no man to go or ride with me. The servants for sorrow could not re­frain from tears, to sée the suddain calamity of their Master, with whom they had lived so plea­santly, and so brought him to his horse. Andolo­cia then taking his leave of them all, departed with an heavy heart, and travelled the next way both by sea and land, until he came to his brother Ampedo.

WHen Andolocia was now come near unto the fair Palace, Ampedo had espied him from the top of a tower, whereof he was excéed­ing glad, hoping to enjoy the purse again, & that he should be no more careful to spare as he had done these ten years: then came he down to meet his brother (who received him joyfully, asking [Page 140] why he came so alone, and where his men were become? He answered, I have left them all, and thank God that I am come safe home. Am­pedo said: I pray you brother shew me what misfortune hath befallen unto you, for you make me greatly afraid. Andolocia said, let us first Dine, and then you shall understand the truth of all matters. After dinner went they together into a Chamber, where Andolocia said to Ampedo, with an heavy countenance: O dear Brother, shame will scantly let my fal­tering tongue to utter what mischance is hap­ned on our behalf; for our fortunate Purse is taken from me, for sorrow whereof my heart is ready to break, but patience perswadeth that grief nothing availeth. Ampedo being with this heavy tydings astonied, pittifully said: is it taken from thee by violence, or hast thou lost it by negligence? He answered, I have most shamefully transgressed our dear Fathers com­mandment, and disclosed the secrets of it to a Lover of mine, who beguiled me when I least mistrusted her. Ampedo said, if we had observed our Fathers will, our Iewels had not been separated, but you will needs adventure in dan­gerous travel to work your own mischief, whereof I sufficiently forewarned you. Ando­locia said: Dear brother, it doth so sore and in­wardly grieve me, that I fear it will cost me my life.

BVt when Ampedo heard that his brother took the matter so heavily, he recomforted him, saying: Let not sorrow come so near thy heart, we have yet two chests full of duckats, & the wishing Hat, whereof we will write to the King Souldan, who if need be, will give us suf­ficient to maintain us during our life, though we had no more; and let the purse go with all ill luck and mischief with it. Then said An [...]o­locia: But goods and Money are subject to many casualties, and in time of conquest and other such extreamities, cannot be lightly con­veyed. [Page 142] Wherefore I beseech thée good brother grant to lend me your wishing hat, and I trust therewith to get the Purse again. Ampedo said, it is a common proverb; Whoso looseth his goods, looseth his wits: which appeareth by thée, who when thou hast already deprived us of [...]ur greatest treasure, wouldest also bereave us of the chiefest pleasure: but I trow one of us will be wiser than to suffer thee to carry away the Hat also. For me séemeth you might be contented to make you pastime with it when you list. When Andolocia perceived that his brother would not in any case grant that he should carry the Hat from him, he thought by policy to deceive him of it, and said: Dear bro­ther, if I have requested that you think incon­venient, I will be contented from henceforth to be ruled by you.

Soon after as his brothers men were gone forth to hunt, he requested the Hat to convey himself among them. His Brother not mi­strusting any deceit, delivered it unto him. But he having gotten it, came neither at the Wood nor the Men, but wished himself at Genua. When Ampedo saw that his Brother had thus deceived him, he took it notwith­standing patiently, and hoped that perhaps he would thereby return again with the Purse also. Andolocia being now at Genua, willed that the fairest Iewels that were to be had should be brought to his lodging; which when they were shewed him, and had agreed on the [Page 143] price, he put them in a Casket, & poised them with his hand, as though he would essay whe­ther he might easily carry them; and there­with wished himself away without payment. The like did he at Florence and Venice, and at last with all the Iewels conveyed himself to London in England; so that the Iewellers whom he had deceived, thought verily some Spirit Incarnate had be guiled them. Then went he unto the Court, apparelled like unto a Merchant, and got licence to display his Iew­els upon a Table, as Agrippina with her train of Ladies should came from the Chappel, whom he well knew, but they knew not him, for that he had disfigured his heard, and the colour of his face.

But when Agrippina was passed by, he gave two Kings unto the two chief Gentlewomen that attended in the Chamber, and requested them that they would so procure that he might come to their Ladies presence, saying: that he would shew her such Iewels, as her Grace ne­ver saw the like. They promised so to do, and presently shewed the rings to Agrippina, which they said the Merchant had given them, to the intent they should procure that he might come before her, and sell unto her Grace some of the best Iewels, for he had many which were very fair and costly.

Agrippina said, I believe well that he hath excéeding rich Iewels, for that he would not stick fréely to give such fair Kings, therefore [Page 144] will him to come unto me, for I long to see his Wares.

When he had laid forth the Iewels before Agrippina, she liked very well of them, and cheapened those that she best fancied, whereof some were worth a thousand Crowns, for which she offered not half the Money. The Merchant said: Gracious Lady, I have been informed that you are the richest Princess in the World, which moved me to seek out the most costly and fairest Iewels that are to be be found, to bring unto your noble Grace, for the which I have sustained painful travel, and great danger: Therefore I trust your Grace would not I should be so much looser by them, as to sell them for less money than they cost me: But if it please your grace to choose and lay out those that you best like, they shall be yours for as easie a price as I can afford them. Then did Agrippina chuse out ten Iewels, whereof the price amounted to five thousand Crowns; but she would in no wise give so much. Andolocia hoping she would bring the Purse, was contented to agree for four thou­sand Crowns. So that Agrippina took the Iew­els, and went unto her Chamber, where she took the Purse out of a Coffer, and knitting it carefully to her girdle, came forth to pay the Merchant. As she came near unto him, be­ginning to tell the money, he clasping her sud­denly, held her fast, and wished that he were in some Wilderness with her, wherein was no [Page 145] dwelling nor resort. With that they were car­ried through the Air in a small space unto a desart place in an Isle that bordereth upon Ire­land, and were set there under a tree, whereon were growing fair Apples. As Agrippina was thus suddenly under the tree, having the Iew­els in her Lap, and the Purse at her Girdle, she said to the Merchant: Lord, for thy mercy where are we now, or how came we hither? I am exceeding faint and hot; therefore I pray reach me some of those Apples to refresh me. The Iewels that he had left poured he into her lap also, and set the hat on her head to shadow her from the parching heat of the Sun, lest it should trouble him in climbing. As he was thus on the top of the tree, looking for the fair­est Apples, she sitting under full heavily, began to say, would God I were in my Chamber a­gain. With that she was presently in her Chamber. The King, the Queen, and the Courtiers asked where she had been, and where the Marchant was become that carried her a­way? She said: God bless me from such Merchants; I suppose it was the Devil him­self, or some of his Angels; Howbeit I left him on the top of a tree: but I pray you trou­ble me with no more questions, for I am ex­ceeding faint and weary, and must needs rest me a while.

VVHen Andolocia sitting on the tree, saw that Agrippina was gone with the Hat, and with all the Iewels, he bitterly cursed the trée, the fruit, and him that planted it: saying moreover, cursed be the hour wherein I was born, and the days and hours that I have lived. O death, why hadst thou not strangled me be­fore ever I came into this miserable danger & distress, and ere ever I knew or beheld the be­witching beauty of Agrippina: would God my brother were with me in this wilderness, then would I surely strangle him, and hang my self: so that we being both dead, the purse should lose his vertue, & the false Queen, & cruel Agrippina should enjoy no further comodity nor pleasure thereby. As Andolocia went wandring thus to and fro, the night came on, that he could go no further; so that he sat him down to rest, but could not sleep for fear, neither thought other­wise than to dye in the Wilderness. Thus lay he all night as a desperate man desirous rather to dye than live any longer. When it was day, he arose & walked every way, but could not hear nor see any man; and being very hungry, came at last unto a tree, whereon grew very fair red Apples, whereof as soon as he had eaten a couple, there sprang out of his head two horns, like as it were of a Goat, which he could by no [Page 147] means get off. Then began he more inwardly to feel the vengeance of God, for his theft and whoredom before time committed, and asked mercy for his sins, saying: O wretch that I am, O unhappiest of all other men; thus mon­strously disfigured like a beast, for that I have beastly lived, and have not taken small correct­tion therefore patiently: Wherefore, O God Almighty, sithence I am deprived of all mens help and succour, forgive me my offences, take from me this deformity, and assist me in this extream calamity.

IT chanced that an old Hermite which had been xxx. years in that desart, and never had [Page 148] seen any man, heard this piteous lamentation of Andolocia, and going to him, he said: Alas poor man, who brought thee hither, for what seekest thou in this desart? Andolocia said: good brother, God be thanked that hath sent thee hither, somewhat to my comfort; verily full sore against my will do I here remain. Then Andolocia being very hungry and faint, ask­ed the Hermite for some meat: he brought him into his Hermitage, where was neither meat, bread, nor wine, but only fruits and water, whereby he lived: Andolocia therefore took a small refection, and then asked if he could shew him by any means how to get his horns away. The Hermit wished Andolocia to follow him, going through a little path from his Hermitage, and there plucking down two Apples from another tree, willed Andolocia to eat them. So soon as he had clean swallowed the two Apples, his Horns were vanished a­way. Andolocia thereof was exceeding glad, & demauded of the Hermit how it came to pass that he had so soon gotten Horns, and was so soon rid of them again: The Hermit said: The Creator of all things hath given this se­cret nature to these two trees; neither be there their like on earth, but in this desart only. Then desired Andolocia that he might carry some of these Apples with him. The Hermit willed him to take as many as he list: But (saith he) I perceive thy mind is greatly cum­bred with temporal and transitory estates, but [Page 149] it were far better to content thee with a com­ [...]cent life, and not to bring thy soul in danger, for a small pleasure. But these perswasions could not now sink very deep into Andolocia's [...]eart, who was now wholly bent to recover again his Purse and his Hat, and to be re­ [...]enged of Agrippina. Wherefore he got as many Apples as he might conveniently car­ry of both sorts, and requested the Hermit to [...]hew him the way to some Town. The Her­mit brought him to a way lying towards a Town: wherefore he greatly thanked him, and so departed and came unto the Town: where with good meat and drink he refreshed himself. From thence went he to a Haven-Town not far off, where he found ships that were setting forth towards London, with whom he departed. As soon as he was come to London, he closed up one of his eyes, and dis­figured his face with a loathsome colour, as strangely as he could devise. Then went he to the Court, and when he knew Agrippina should pass, laid abroad his Apples very handsomly upon a fine cloath and wrapped them in Sarce­ [...]et, whereby they should seem more precious, and called them Apples of Damasco. When many did require the price of them, he held them at three Crowns every Apple: so that none would buy of them, whereof he was glad, not meaning to sell of them but only to Agrip­pina.

At the last when Agrippina with her Ladies [Page 150] passed by, he asked if it would please her grace to buy any precious Apples of Damasco. Agrip­pina asked what was the price of one of them? He said: Three Crowns. Then asked she what vertue was in them more than in other to be so dear? Andoloc a answered, that they would cause excellent beauty, and make a sharp wit in them which should eat of them. Agrippina then willed one of her Gentlewomen to buy two of them. Andolocia then having accomplished his purpose, put up his wares, and conveyed him­self speedily away.

And as soon as Agrippina came to her Chamber, she eat her two Apples, and presently two great horns sprang out of her head with great ach and pain, so that she laid her down to bed. When the horns were fully grown out, and her head-ach ceased, she felt and beheld in a glass two great horns. Then called she two of her Ladies, who blessed them [...]elves, and were affrighted at that strange sight, and she was so astonied with shame and grief, that she could not for a while speak. Then asked they how it was come to pass, that her Noble Personage was so monstrously disfigured. She said: I wot not how, but it is a just plague of God as I sup­pose, or else it commeth of the Apples of Damas­co, which I bought of that villanous Merchant. Wherefore I beseech you find some means that I may be rid of them.

Then got they privately a saw, & sawed them off hard by the head, which she patiently endu­red: [Page 151] But they presently sprang up again, whereat she was greatly dismayed, and pitti­fully lamented, saying: O cursed and misera­ble wretch that I am, what availeth it me to be a Kings Daughter, the richest that liveth on the Earth, and to have the praise of beauty above all other Women, and now to be thus monstrously mishapen like a br [...]te beast: there­fore alas that ever I was born, if I cannot have speedy help, I will surely by some means shorten my life: One of her Ladies, a Witty Gentlewoman, comforted her, saying: Be patient a while (O gracious Lady) and pluck up a chearful heart; for no doubt as you have gotten those horns by some cause, so by re­moving of the same cause you may have reme­dy: and if any earthly thing hath power to work this effect, undoubtedly God hath created the like to take it away again. Therefore we will send for Physitians, it cannot be but that they have found written by what ocasion they grow, and how they may be consumed away. Agrip­pina with these words was comforted with some hope, willing them to keep all things se­cret, and by privy means to learn if Physick might help her.

Whereupon the Old Chamberlain went with speed to all the best Physitians, and told them: That whereas one of her Kin­dred had two great Horns grown out of her Head, she would know whether they could by Physick be taken away or not. The [Page 152] Physicians hearing of this strange infirmity, were all desirous to see the party. But the Gentlewoman said, you must not in any case see her, except you will be bound in great bonds to take them clean away, which if you can do, you shall be richly rewarded. But there was none would take upon him to take away the growing of the horns, for they had never seen, heard, nor read of the like. When the Gentle­woman thought that no remedy would be had, she was returned home again to Agrippina with a heavy heart.

AS she was coming towards the Court, she met with Andolocia, who being apparel­led like a Physitian in an ancient Gown, and disfigured with a counterfeit bottle-nose, said unto her: I perceive good Mistris that you have been with three sundry Physitians in my light, I pray you shew me, have you sped of your purpose? Be not displeased that I am so bold to ask you this Question, for I am a Physitian also: And if you have any grief, you may shew it me, for it must be a very strange disease that I will not with Gods help cure and take from you. The Gentlewoman supposing that God had sent this Physitian, which offered himself so luckely, said: there is a marvellous impediment chanced to a Noble Gentlewoman, out of whose head are grown two horns of a Goat, which if you can take away, that they spring no more, you shall be richly rewarded, for she hath money at will. The Physitian smiling, courteously said, if that be the worst, I have the science to rid her of her horns without any pain or smart. I know well also the cause whereof they came. She earnestly requested him to declare the oc­casion of that strange disease. He said: She hath been unfaithful where she professed Love, and hath inwardly rejoyced at Wickedness done to her friend, which joy she durst not open­ly utter: howbeit, whereas it must needs in some place of the body have an issue, it is least dangerous when it breaketh out upward: for if [Page 154] it should not be expelled; it would so oppress the heart, that death would shortly ensue. It is not now two years sithence that I was in the King of Spains Court, where an Earls Daughter of a fair and tender Complexion, had grown on her forehead two great Horns, which I by my science, and Gods help took away.

When the Chamberlain had now great hope of his cunning, she asked where he lodg­ed, saying: that she would presently come a­gain to him. He said: I am lodged here-by, at the swan, there may you enquire for me; I am called the Doctor with the great Nose; and al­though I have another Name, yet am I best known thereby, because I am but a stranger. Then went she joyfully unto the sorrowful Princess, and said: Gracious Lady, pluck up a merry heart, and be of good chear, you shall be shortly rid of your Horns; shewing unto her how when most of the London Physitians had sent her away comfortless, she met by chance with a strange Doctor, who made light of the matter, and would warrant me to help your grief, for that he had taken away the like from an Earls Daughter of Spain before. Moreover he told me the cause whereof they did spring, which your grace doth well know, whereby I did the better believe him. Then said Agrip­pina, why had you not brought him with you, séeing you know how earnest I desire to be cured? Go incontinently and fetch him hither, [Page 155] and will him to bring all things necessary for the purpose, not sparing any cost. Take also with you to give him an hundred Crowns, and if he demand more, give him as much as he asketh. The Gentlewoman went to the Physi­tian, gave him an hundred Crowns, saying: I pray you be now diligent, and to the patient, that I shall bring you, must you come only by night, neither must you disclose the matter to any person; for her own father and mother as yet know not of it. The Physitian said: Doubt not you of my secretness: but before I go with you, I must buy at the Apothecaries such things as are requisite: in the mean time you may stay here, or return again two hours hence: she said, I will tarry for you, for I dare not go home without you.

Then went Andol [...]cia to the Apothecaries, and bought a quantity of Rubarb, Sugar, [...]nd Rose-water, and therein soaked and rol­led one of his Apples, being cut in little pieces. He bought also a Box of sweet Oynt­ment, and many other sweet odours and per­ [...]umes to delight her senses withal, and then [...]ame again to the Gentlewoman who con­ [...]eyed him by night to Agrippina, to whom he [...]aid, let your Grace be of good comfort, and [...]oubt not but by Gods help and my science, you shall be soon eased of your disease: there­fore prepare you that I may sée and féel your grief. Agrippina though she were greatly a­ [...]hamed to shew her Horns, sat up in her Bed. [Page 156] The Physitian viewed and handled the horns, saying: You must have upon each horn a piece of rough Apes-skin, taken warm from the Ape, and with this confection will I anoint them also. There was an old Ape in the Court which was presently slain, and the skin flayed off, of which were made two cases, as the Physitian had commanded. Then did he annoint the horns and her temples with Apes-grease, and his sweet confection, and put on the cases of the skin, and said to her: This have I done to sof­ten and mollifie the horns: but they must be brawn away by purging, for the which you shall swallow these small Pills, and rest there­upon, whereby you shall perceive a speedy a­mendment.

Agrippina received the purgation, which was the Apple to drive away horns, cut in small pieces, and mingled with rubarb. And although this counterfeit Physitian had used such Apish Medicines to make a shew of rare cunning; yet was it the Apple indeed that only did the feat. Andolocia withdrawing himself a little aside, the Rubarb began to work with his Patient, so that she went twice or thrice to the Stool. Af­ter a while came in the Doctor, and said: Let us see whether the Physick hath done any good, and therewith he pulled off the skins, and the horns were also diminished, whereof she was exceeding glad. Then departed he, and said, he would go to the Apothecaries again, and that the next night he could finish his cure. [Page] When he had tempered the other Apple with Sugar and Spice of another rellish, he came the next night unto her again, and dressed her as he had done before, but gave her not so much of the Apple, because she should not be throughly cured, before he had talked with her, and had some likelihood to bring his purpose to pass. Wherefore as he sat by her, she being a­sleep, he thought with himself, two or thrée thousand Crowns were a sufficient reward if another had done this cure, but it is nothing comparable to the mischief she hath done unto me; wherefore before I clean take away the horns, I will let her understand my mind, to the which if she will not consent, where she thinks to be rid of her horns, I will cause them to grow so long as they were before; and then I will go into Flanders, and from thence send her word, that if she will have remedy, she shall come unto me, and bring with her the wishing-Hat and Purse. As he was thus devising, came in the Gentlewoman with a candle to see Agrip­pina, who was asleep,

IT chanced that Andolocias Cap fell from his head, so that when he stooped to take it up a­gain, he espied his wishing-hat lying under the bed on the ground, which none regarded, for [Page 158] they knew not the vertue of it: neither knew the Princess her self, that by the means there­of she was conveyed out of the Court, and from the Desart; for if she had, it should not have been so negligently laid up. The Phy­sitian then sent the Gentlewoman for some Conduit Water; and in the mean while he took it up from under the Bed, and held it pri­vily under his Gown. By this time was A­grippina awaked, then took he the skin from her Brow, to sée how much the Horns were sunk, which were now become very slender, and scant an handful long, whereof Agrippina was very glad. And whereas Andolocia meant to have rough and sharp Communion with Agrippina, he was now somewhat paci­fied when he had the Hat, and in Courteous manner said unto her: Gracious Lady, you see that your malady is now well-diminished, the chiefest cure that resteth behind, is to drive the root of the Horns out of the skul, to the which must be used very costly medicines, which if I cannot find in this Realm, I must needs ei­ther go my self, or send some other Doctor to fetch such things whereof I shall inform him, in other Countries; which will ask great charges. Besides this, would I know what certain sum of money you will give me, when you shall be clean rid of your Horns, and that your forehead shall be as smooth as ever it was. The Princess answered, I have certainly found that your science is exxellent and true, [Page 159] therefore I beseech you to do your best to help me, and spare no money. The Physitian said: You bid me not to spare, but I have no money, whereof I should be liberal. For Agrippina (as naturally all Women be more nigardly than men) was careful in sparing, though she had a Purse which could not be empty. Howbeit when he craved her liberality so plainly, she went to her Coffer and brought out the Purse, hanging it at her girdle, wherein were also her best Iewels; the same she tyed about her middle, and went to the Window, where she counted out three hundred Crowns. When An­dolocia perceived she had the Purse and Iew­els about her, he groped under his Gown, as though he sought for a Purse to put his money in, cast off his Cap, set on his Hat, clasped Agrippina fast about the middle, and wished himself in a solitary Desart, which was pre­sently accomplished by the vertue of the Hat. When Agrippina was thus suddenly gone, the Gentlewoman of the Chamber ran to the Quéen, and told her that a Physician had carried away her daughter in such sort as the Merchant had done, and declared what had chanced concerning the Horns. The Quéen with this heavy news was astonied: but yet hoped that she would quickly return, as she had done before the other time. But when she came not again after one day and a night past she was exceeding sorrowful, and recount­ed unto the KING also, how strangely [Page 160] all things had chanced, and how the Physitian had conveyed her away.

The King said, he is indeed a wise Physiti­an, and hath I warrant you more knowledge than the common sort: It is none other then Andolocia, whom you have falsly deceived. For it is no other like but he that gave unto him such a Purse, hath given him such Wis­dom also, when he should lose it, to recover it again. It is the will of God that he only should enjoy the Purse, and none else; like as his pleasure is that I should be only King of this Realm: would God therefore that we had but our Daughter again, and with the Purse well might he speed that hath most Right thereto.

Then said the Quéen, let us send forth Mes­sengers into every coast, to hear of her if it may be, lest she come to some poverty and di­stress.

The King said, it were in vain to seek her, un­til God restore her againe and also it were a shame for us that we have kept her no better. But when Andolocia and Agrippina were alone in the desart, he cast off the Doctors Gown, and plucked away his counterfeit great nose; where­by she perceived it was Andolocia, to whom she could not yet speak for shame & fear, for that he looked on her with such an angry & grim coun­tenance, as though he would have presently kil­led her. And first he drew a knife, and cutting her girdle asunder, took the purse, and fastned it [Page 161] to his Doublet where it was before, whereat Agrippina trembled and quaked with great fear. Then said Andoloc [...]a a fiercely unto her: O thou false faithless Woman, thou art now fallen into my power, where I will requite the Treason thou didst Conspire against me, when thou tookest the Purse from me. How could thy Heart serve thée (thou Perjured Wight) to shew such unkindness towards me, who committed unto thée both my secrets, bo­dy, and goods, and so often adventured my self to just, and to use other feats of Chivalry only for thy sake? For recompence whereof thou wroughtest me such mischief, and broughtest me into such desperate misery, that if God of his grace had not comforted me, I had surely destroyed my body, and thereby damned my soul. Now be thine own judge, whether it be reason that I take as little pitty on thee, as thou hast done on me,

Agrippina distilling many tears, lamenta­bly said: O vertuous and valiant Knight, I confess that I have done dishonestly, and have intollerably abused you: yet notwithstanding have some compassion on me, and consider the frailness aod ignorance that is naturally in Women more than in Men, and do good for evil, as it becometh a Christian, Vertuous and valiant Knight. Andolocia answered: but the misery and shame that I have sustained by thée, went so near my heart, that I can hard­ly Forget or Forgive. Then said she again: [Page 162] yet Andolocia for the love of God advise your self, what dishonour it would be for you to a­venge your Wrath on a poor Woman, being a­lone with you as a Prisoner in the Desart, the report whereof you may suppose would be a great blemish unto your Noble Chivalry. Then said Andolocia: Well Agrippina, though thou deserve no mercy, yet will I restrain from tyranny, and do promise thé by my Knight­hood, that I will neither distain thy honour, nor hurt thy body. But thou hast one token on thy head, which thou shalt carry with thée to thy Grave, that thou mayest the better re­member thy unfaithfulness towards thy Lo­ver. Agrippina being glad that she had esca­ped Violence or Death, thanked him, and therewith said: Now would God my Horns were away, and I were again in my Fathers Palace. Andolocia hearing her begin to wish, suddenly caught up the Hat, that lay not far from her, and held it fast in his hand: Where­by Agrippina perceived that he greatly estéem­ed the Hat, and that by vertue of it she was thrice conveyed, whereat she was inwardly vexed, that she had estéemed and kept the Hat no better. But she earnestly entreated An­dolocia that he would clean rid her of her Horns, and convey her again to her Father. To whom he said: It is bootless for thée to crave that of me (be thou never so importu­nate) but thou must have the Horns during thy Life. Notwithstanding I will carry thée [Page 163] so near thy Fathers Palace, that thou mayest sée it; but I mean my self not to come no more there. She requested him again twice or thrice, to deliver her of her Horns, but he was fully determined not to grant her request.

WHen Agrippina was now come into the Court, there was excéeding joy and glad­ness on every behalf: and the King and Queen ordained a solemn Feast, and adorned her in most sumptuous attire, that all the Courtiers & Commonalty might rejoyce with them, for the return of their fair daughter, that they sup­posed to have béen lost. As the King, the Quéen, and the Nobility were in the midst of their mixth and pastime, there was tidings brought, that the King of Cyprus had sent a noble Em­bassage [Page 171] to entreat of a Marriage between A­grippina and the young Prince of Cyprus. The Embassadors at their coming were very ho­nourably entertained after their estate, where­of the one was a Duke, and the other two were Earls, with many other Knights and Gentle­men, who did their Embassage before the King and the Counsel, and had so far thereof con­cluded, that they began to confer about the dowry and the wedding-day. When the Queen perceived that they had almost determined of the matter, it grieved her that her Daughter should be carried so far into a strange country, and to be married to one of whose demeanour, favour, and personage, she was altogether ig­norant. Then required the Embassadors that the Queen might come in presence, to whom they shewed that painted Portraicture of the young Prince, affirming with an oath, that the person whom that picture did represent, was rather more amiable than the Image did ex­press and that he was but four & twenty years of age. With this they were all pleased, and the Quéen, who took the picture and brought it to Agrippina, shewing it to her, and how they had determined to marry her unto a young King, which was more beautiful than the Picture could shew. Agrippina remembring the words of Andolocia in the Abbey, gave the more cre­dit, and granted her consent, that what her fa­ther and the Queen should do in that behalf, she would be obedient thereto.

When it was perceived that Agrippina was willing to consent, they concluded fully of the Marriage. Then were their ships prepared with men, vict [...]als, artillery, and sumptuous garments, and precious Iewels were put to making for Agrippina: and she had assigned to attend on her many goodly and tall Gentlemen and Yeomen, and many fair Ladies and Gentlewomen. When all things were in readiness, Agrippina took her leave of her Father the King, and the Queen her Mother, kneeling and saying: Gracious Prince my Father, and Dearly Beloved Lady Mother, the Almighty God have you in his Protection, and grant you health and long life: And now I must needs depart, give me I pray you your last blessing. The King said: My most dea [...]ly beloved Daughter; The Blessing of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, defend thee from all grief and misfortune, and grant thee to be a Mother of many Children. The Queen thereto said, Amen. Then rose up A­grippina, and went aboard the ship with all her Train: And the Marriners hoised up the sails: they passed forthwith a prosperous wind until they came altogether safe and sound unto Famagosta in Cyprus, where the King had appointed to receive her by a Duke, a Dutchess, four Earls, and many Noble La­dies. There was also at her arrival a sum­ptuous Feast in Famogosta for all that came, and every man rejoyced that they had gotten [Page 173] such a fair and beautiful Queen. From thence was she conveyed by land unto Medusa, where the King kept his Court; thither were resort­ed all the Nobility of the Realm, both of men and women: And although she was Royally received at Famagosta, yet was she ten times better and more gorgeously entertained at Me­dusa, by the King, and Queen, and her Ladies, and by the young Prince & his train; all which she thanked with a merry countenance, and rode joyfully unto the Kings Palace. There was Feasting and Triumphs the space of six weeks after the Wedding, with such solemnity and sumptuousness as had never been seen in Cyprus before: And amongst many other rich gifts that were presented to the young Prin­cess at the Feast; Andolocia for his part gave a whole ship full of Malmste and Muscadel; so that it was as common a drink with them du­ring the Feast, as Beer or Ale.

ALL the while that the Feast lasted, the Lords & Knights practised daily justing, Turny, fighting at Barriars, and such other martial exercises. And he which had quitted himself most manfully in the day, at night in the time of Dancing and Revels, the young Queen did openly set a Garland on his Head. [Page 174] But Andolocia was crowned with the Gar­land more often than any of them, and was praised for his active carriage, both of men and women. At the last it chanced on a time, An­dolocia had by right deserved the Garland, yet for honour sake it was given unto the Earl Theodorus of England, who came over with the Queen, whereof Andolocia made small ac­count; howbeit that all men said openly that Andolocia had better deserved it. And when this rumor came to Theodorus ears, it spight­ed him greatly, and thereby he conceived in­ward malice against Andolocia. Wherefore he concluded a conspiracy with the Earl of Li­mose (who had his House in an Isle not far from Famagosta) to put Andolocia to shame and reproach, or else to destroy him for envy, that he carried the greatest honour and praise of Knightly manhood so far from them, that no Lord, Knight, nor Squire might compare with him. Wherefore they appointed at his return towards Famagosta after the Feast, to set up­on him, to slay all his men, and carry him Pri­soner to Limose, out of the Kings Land, where the Earl had a Castle, and that there they would rack him, and put him to such intoller­able pain, that he should confess where his greatest treasure lay, and should by some privy token send for the most part of it, whereby they should keep a stately port, and his pride should be much abated.

SO when Andolocia after the Triumph had taken his leave, and was returning to Fa­magosta, the two Earls having appointed an ambush of men, they took Andolocia Prisoner, slew all his men, and carried him into the Ca­stle of Limose, where he was so straightly kept, that in no wise he could come out. Then pro­mised he unto the Keepers a great sum of mo­ney, if they would let him go frée, but they durst not so do, lest that when he were at liberty he would not keep promise with them: neither durst he tell them of any great sum of money before-hand, lest they should thereby perceive the vertue of his Purse, and so might lose both the Purse and his life also. Soon after came tidings to the King that Andolocias men were slain, & he himself gone no man knew whither, neither was it known who had committed that hainous murther. The two Earls after this wicked fact rode again unto the Court, & behaved themselves as if they knew nothing thereof. When Ampedo likewise was certi­fied what had chanced to his Brother, he re­quested the Kings assistance to lay privy wait throughout his dominions for Andolocia. The King answered: That he was as sorry for him, [Page 176] as himself, and that on condition he could learn whether he was safe and alive, he would spare no money to look him, though it should cost him half his Kingdom.

AMpedo imagining with himself that his Brother was come into some distress by occasion of his Purse, and that by racking and torments he might be forced to confess of the Hat also, whereby he might in like manner come into the like danger; in a great fury he cast the Hat into the fire, and stood by it till it was burned to ashes. And when he could by no means hear tell what was become of his Brother, he conceived thereby such an inward grief, that for thought he fell sick, and short­ly after ended his life.

The King had caused Proclamation to be made, that whosoever could bring word whe­ther Andolocia were dead or alive, he should have a thousand Duckats in ready money, but no tidings could be heard of him. Then the Earl of Limose took his leave of the King, and departed home to his Castle, where he found Andolocia in a deep dungeon. When Andolo­cia saw him, he was glad, beseeching him to be merciful unto him, and to deliver him out of prison; for (said he) I wot not whose prisoner I am, neither for what cause I am thus straitly penned up: if I hade done wrong to any man, I [Page 177] will recompence it either with body or goods. The Earl said: Andolocia, thou art not brought hither to be delivered again, thou art my prisoner, and before thou depart shalt thou tell me how and from whence thou hadst to much money, to maintain such a sumptuous and Princely Port, as thou hast so long time done, or else I will so torment thee, that thou shalt be glad to shew it. When Andolocia heard those cruel and threatning words, he was exceedingly afraid, his hope failed him, and he wist not how to dissemble the matter, but said on a suddain: My Father when he died, shewed me a Privy which is in our House at Famagosta, wherein I should find more money than I were able to spend during my Life: and if it please you to carry me as a Prisoner thither, I will shew you the experience there­of. The Earl would not be perswaded that this was the truth, but took him out of the Stocks, and racked him grievously, which he a while endured, but at the length he was so bitterly tormented, that he might no longer refrain, but shewed plainly the vertue of the Purse. When the Earl heard that, he took the Purse of him, and by trial finding his saying to be true, caused Andolocia to be a­gain set in the Stocks, and committed him to one whom he trusted well.

The Earl then paid his Debts, stored his Castle with victuals and furniture, and rode forthwith to his Companion the Earl Theo­dorus, [Page 178] who rejoyced at his coming to the court. And when they had communed together con­cerning the purse that the Earl had gotten of Andolocia by racking, there was no small tri­umphing between them on either part. But Theodorus liked not that Andolocia was left alive: For (said he) I hear it reported in the Court, that he is a Doctor in Negromancy, and can fly in the Ayr: Therefore it is to be feared that he will by some means escape, whereby we may both come in Danger of death. But the Earl said, he lieth so fast & sure in Prison, that I warrant you he cannot come forth. Then went they together and took out as much money as they listed, and were both alike desirous to have the purse: but to eschew all controversie, they agreed that one should have it one half year,, and the other should have it another half: and that whoso had the purse, should not suffer the other to want, or remain in danger: and that forasmuch as the Count of Limose was the elder, he should first enjoy it, The two elders having now money at will, yet were they circumspect, and durst not seem very liberal or wastful, for fear of suspition. But Theodorus could not be yet satisfied, as long as Andolocia was alive, for dread lest they should again lose the purse. Besides that, he purposed when he had the possession of the purse, to go so far with it, that he would be safe and sure both from the King and the Earl of Limose. And therefore he entreated of the [Page 179] Earl that he might have his Letters, and one of his men to see Andolocia in Prison, which the Earl granted. Then took the Lord Theo­dorus his leave of the King, and said, he would travel to see the pleasant commodity of his Dominion. Then rode he straight unto the Prison to Andolocia, whose legs were rotted with the stocks and irons, but now he hoped that sithence they had his Purse, they took no more regard of him, but supposed that the Earl had sent Theodorus to let him out of Prison.

BVt the Earl Theodorus said unto him: tell me Andolocia, host thou any more such Purses as thou hast given to the Earl of Li­mose? If thou hast the like bestow it on me, and I will presently let thee go free: He an­swered: Gracious Lord, so God help me, I have no more, but if I had, it were at your Com­mandment. Then said Theodorus: It is report­ed that thou art skilful in Negromancy, and can flie in the Air: Why dost thou not now practise thy Cunning to deliver thee from hence? He said: My good Lord, I neither have, nor never had, any pleasure in that Art; but have only had my pleasure with the Purse which ye have, the same will I freely give to you and the Earl of Limose, before God and the world, and will never make claim to it again, if you will for the Honour of God, but only de­liver me poor wretched man out of this prison, lest I die here miserably.

Theodorus said: Canst thou now submit thy self? Why wast thou not so lowly, when with such Pride and Presumption thou didst advance thy self before the King and the Queen to dishonour us all? Where are all the fair Ladies whom thou didst so well please, and which gave thee all the praise? Try now if any of them can help thee: but sithence thou doest so sore long to be out of Prison, I will soon deliver thee from thy sorrow. Then of­fered he five hundred Duckats unto the Kéeper to strangle Andolocia, but he would not do it, [Page 181] saying: He is an honest man, and very freble, so that he must needs ere it be long die of him­self, but I surely will not commit such a hai­nous sin. Then said Theodorus: Give me a Halter, and I will Strangle him; but the Keeper would not in any case help him. Then took he his girdle that was about his middle, and casting of it about Andolocias neck, with his Dagger writhed in it, and so strangled poor Andolocia to death, sitting in the stocks, and gave the Keeper a reward to convey the dead body out of fight. When this cruel tyrant had finished this horrid murther, he incontinently departed again to the Court, where he secretly told unto the Earl of Limose what he had done: saying; Andolocia is like to work us no more mischief, for I have killed him with mine own hands, neither could I rest before I was sure that he was dead. Now whereas the Earl in four days space had not medled with the purse, and the half year was expired that Theo­dorus turn came to enjoy it as long, he deman­ded him to deliver it, and take as much spend­ing money as he would. The Earl of Limose was well content, and went forthwith to the Coffer, and brought forth the Purse, casting it upon the Table. Theodorus took it in his hand, and would have Coyned out some money, but there was none to be felt, neither would the Purse yield any more fruit. Then looked they strangely one on the other, not knowing that by Reason that Ampedo [Page 182] and Andolocia were both dead, the Purse had lost his vertue. Then the Earl Theodorus said angerly: Thou false and deceitful man, thinkest thou so fondly to deceive me? by delivering unto me this simple Purse that is not worth a groat, instead of that pretious Purse whereof we had so much money? fetch me therefore that which I now ought to have. He answered: It is in good faith the same Purse that I took from Andolocia, neither have I any other: but how it comes to pass that it yieldeth not as it bid before, I know not. Theodorus would not be pacified with this Answer, but was far more angry, and said he would be revenged on him whatever befel, and therewith drawing his Rapier, strook at him. The Earl of Limose having no other defence, ran within him, and staid his hands as soon as he might, whereby they made such a noise, that their men being in the next Chamber, brake up the Doors, and parted them. Howbeit the Earl of Limose was deadly wounded therefore his men laid hold on Theodorus. When tidings came to the King, that the Earls which were great friends, had fought in a Chamber, and one al­most slain the other, he commanded both to be brought before him, to enquire the cause of their debate; but Theodorus only was exami­ned, the other being so wounded, that he could not come.

WHen the King by strict Examination and grievous Racking, had violently forc'd Theodorus to confess how they had dealt with Andolocia, he was excéedingly grieved, & being mov'd with wrathful displeasure against the murtherers, without longer deliberation, he gave judgement, that they should be execut­ed with bruising their bones upon wheels, and that if the Earl of Limose were sick, he should be carried to the place of execution, and if he were dead, that his carkass notwithstanding should be set on the wheel, which was execu­ted [Page 184] on the two Earls, as the King had com­manded. Then sent the King also certain Officers to the Castle of Limose, to seize upon all the goods and lands of the Earl; and willed also that as many men and women as were in the castle, consenting to the murther, or that had concealed the same, should be all hanged out upon the Castle walls without any mercy. And whereas they had knowledge how the bo­dy of Andolocia was cast into a ditch by the Castle, they caused it to be taken up, and car­ried it to Famagosta, where it was honourably buried in the Chantry Church, which his Fa­ther had founded; for whom the King and the Queen, and the Prince, and Princess mourn­ed, as if he had been of their near Linage. And forasmuch as neither Ampedo nor Ando­locia had any Heirs left behind them, the King took the Costly Palace into his Possession, wherein he found so much goods and ready coin, such sumptuous houshold-stuff, and so pre­cious and costly Iewels, that it might rather seem the Palace of some mighty Emperour, than of a Subject. In the same Palace the young King and Queen held their Court, un­till his Father departed out of this life; and then began they to reign and govern the whole Realm of Cyprus.