_The Soldan of Babylon sent one of his Daughters, to be joyned inmarriage with the King of_ Cholcos; _who by divers accidents (in thespace of foure yeeres) happened into the custody of nine men, and insundry places. At length being restored backe to her Father, shee wentto the saide King of_ Cholcos, _as a Maide, and as at first shee wasintended to be his wife._
The seaventh Novell.
_A lively demonstration, that the beauty of a Woman, (oftentimes) isvery hurtfull to her selfe, and the occasion of many evils, yea, and ofdeath, to divers men._
Peradventure the Novell related by Madam _?milia_, did not extend itselfe so farre in length, as it moved compassion in the Ladies mindes,hearing the hard fortunes of _Beritola_ and her Children, which hadincited them to weeping: but that it pleased the Queene (upon the Talesconclusion) to command _Pamphilus_, to follow (next in order) with hisdiscourse, and hee being thereto very obedient, beganne in this manner.
It is a matter of no meane difficulty (vertuous Ladies) for us to takeintire knowledge of every thing we doe, because (as oftentimes hathbeene observed) many men, imagining if they were rich, they shouldlive securely, and without any cares. And therefore, not onely havetheir prayers and intercessions aimed at that end, but also theirstudies and daily endeavours, without refusall of any paines or perilshave not meanely expressed their hourely solicitude. And although ithath happened accordingly to them, and their covetous desires fullyaccomplished; yet at length they have met with such kinde of people,who likewise thirsting after their wealthy possessions, have bereftthem of life, being their kinde and intimate friends, before theyattained to such riches. Some other, being of low and base condition,by adventuring in many skirmishes and foughten battels, trampling inthe bloud of their brethren and friends, have beene mounted to thesoveraigne dignity of Kingdomes, (beleeving that therein consisted thetruest happinesse) but bought with the dearest price of their lives.For, beside their infinite cares and feares, wherewith such greatnesseis continually attended, at their royall Tables, they have drunkepoyson in a golden pot. Many other in like manner (with most earnestappetite) have coveted beauty and bodily strength, not foreseeing withany judgement, that these wishes were not without perill; when beingendued with them, they either have beene the occasion of their death,or such a lingering lamentable estate of life, as death were a thousandtimes more welcome to them.
But because I would not speake particularly of all our fraile andhumane affections, I dare assure ye, that there is not any one of thesedesires, to be elected among us mortals, with entire foresight orprovidence, warrantable against their ominous issue. Wherefore, if wewould walke directly, wee should dispose our willes and affections, tobe ordered and guided onely by him, who best knoweth what is needfullfor us, and will bestow them at his good pleasure. Nor let me lay thisblamefull imputation upon men onely, for offending in many thingsthrough over lavish desires: because you your selves (gracious Ladies)sinne highly in one, as namely, in coveting to be beautifull. So thatit is not sufficient for you, to enjoy those beauties bestowne on youby Nature: but you practise to encrease them, by the rarities of Art.Wherefore, let it not offend you, that I tell you the hard fortune ofa faire Sarrazines, to whom it happened (by strange adventures) withinthe compasse of foure yeares, nine severall times to be maried, andonely for her beauty.
It is now a long time since, that there lived a Soldane in _Babylon_,named _Beminidab_, to whom (while he lived) many things happened,answerable to his owne desires. Among divers other children both maleand female, he had a daughter, called _Alathiella_, and shee (accordingto the common voyce of every one that saw her) was the fayrest Ladythen living in all the world. And because the King of _Cholcos_ hadwonderfully assisted him, in a valiant foughten battaile, against amighty Armie of _Arabes_, who on a suddaine had assailed him: heedemaunded his faire daughter in marriage, which likewise was kindlygranted to him. A goodly and well armed Ship was prepared for her,with full furnishment of all necessary provision, and accompanied withan honourable traine, both Lords and Ladies, as also most costly andsumptuous accoustrements; commending her to the mercy of heaven, inthis manner was shee sent away.
The time being propitious for their parting thence, the Marinershoised their sayles, leaving the part of _Alexandria_, and saylingprosperously many dayes together. When they had past the Country of_Sardignia_, and (as they imagined) were well neere to their journeyesend: suddainly arose boisterous and contrary windes, which were soimpetuous beyond all measure, and so tormented the Ship wherein theLady was; that the Mariners, seeing no signe of comfort, gave overall hope of escaping with life. Neverthelesse, as men most expertin implacable dangers, they laboured to their uttermost power, andcontended with infinite blustring tempests, for the space of two dayesand nights together, hoping the third day would prove more favourable.But therein they saw themselves deceived, for the violence continuedstill, encreasing in the night time more and more, being no way able tocomprehend, either where they were, or what course they tooke, neitherby marivall judgement, or any apprehension else whatsoever, the heavenswere so clouded, and the nights darknesse so extreame.
Being (unknowne to them) neere the Isle of _Majorica_, they felt theShip to split in the bottome, by meanes whereof, perceiving now no hopeof escaping (every one caring for himselfe, and not any other) theythrew forth a Squiffe on the troubled waves, reposing more confidenceof safety that way, then abiding any longer in the broken Ship.Howbeit, such as were first descended downe, made stout resistanceagainst all other followers, with their drawne weapons: but safety oflife so farre prevailed, that what with the tempests violence, andover-lading of the Squiffe, it sunke to the bottome, and all perishedthat were therein. The Ship being thus split, and more then halfe fullof water, tossed and tormented by the blustring windes, first oneway, and then another: was at last driven into a strand of the Isle_Majorica_, no other persons remaining therein; but onely the Ladyand her women, all of them (through the rude tempest, and their owneconceived feare) lying still, as if they were more then halfe dead. Andthere, within a stones cast of the neighbouring shore, the Ship (by therough surging billowes) was fixed fast in the sands, and so continuedall the rest of the night, without any further molestation of thewindes.
When day appeared, and the violent stormes were more mildly appeased,the Lady, who seemed well-neere dead, lifted up her head, and began(weake as she was) to call first one, and then another: but she calledin vaine, for such as she named were farre enough from her. Wherefore,hearing no answere, nor seeing any one, she wondered greatly, herfeares encreasing then more and more. Raysing her selfe so well asshee could, she beheld the Ladies that were of her company, and someother of her women, lying still without any stirring: whereupon,first jogging one, and then another, and calling them severally bytheir names; shee found them bereft of understanding, and even asif they were dead, their hearts were so quailed, and their feare soover-ruling, which was no meane dismay to the poore Lady her selfe.Neverthelesse, necessity now being her best counsallour, seeing herselfe thus all alone, and not knowing in what place she was, she usedsuch meanes to them that were living, that (at the last) they camebetter to knowledge of themselves. And being unable to guesse, whatwas become of the men and Mariners, seeing the Ship also driven on thesands, and filled with water: she began (with them) to lament mostgrievously, and now it was about the houre of mid-day, before theycould descry any person on the shore, or any else to pitty them in sourgent a necessity.
At length, noone being past, a Gentleman, named _Bajazeth_, attendedby divers of his followers on horseback, and returning from a Countryhouse belonging to him, chanced to ride by on the sands. Upon sightof the Ship lying in that case, he imagined truely what had happened,and commanded one of his men to enter aboord it, which (with somedifficulty) hee did, to resolve his Lord what remayned therein. Therehee found the faire young Lady, with such small store of company aswas left her, fearefully hidden under the prow of the Ship. So sooneas they saw him, they held up their hands, wofully desiring mercyof h
im: but he perceiving their lamentable condition, and that heeunderstoode not what they said to them; their affliction grew thegreater, labouring by signes and gestures, to give him knowledge oftheir misfortune.
The servant, gathering what he could by their outward behaviour,declared to his Lord, what hee had seene in the Ship: who caused thewomen to be brought on shore, and all the precious things remainingwith them, conducting them with him to a place not farre off, where,with foode and warmth he gave them comfort. By the rich garments whichthe Lady was cloathed withall, hee reputed her to be a Gentlewomanwell derived, as the great reverence done to her by the rest, gave himgood reason to conceive. And although her lookes were pale and wan, asalso her person mightily altered, by the tempestuous violence of theSea: yet notwithstanding, she appeared faire and lovely in the eye of_Bajazeth_, whereupon forthwith he determined, that if she were notmaried, he would enjoy her as his owne in mariage, or if he could notwinne her to be his wife, yet (at the least) shee should be his friend,because shee remained now in his power.
_Bajazeth_ was a man of sterne lookes, rough and harsh both in speechand behaviour: yet causing the Lady to be honourably used divers dayestogether, she became thereby well comforted and recovered. And seeingher beauty to exceede all comparison, he was afflicted beyond measure,that he could not understand her, nor she him, whereby hee could notknow, of whence or what she was. His amorous flames encreasing moreand more; by kinde, courteous, and affable actions, hee laboured tocompasse what he aymed at. But all his endeavour proved to no purpose,for shee refused all familiar privacie with him, which so much themore kindled the fury of his desire. This being well observed by theLady, having now remayned there a moneth & more, and collecting by thecustomes of the Countrey, that she was among Turkes, and in such aplace, where although she were knowne, yet it would little advantageher, beside, that long protraction of time would provoke _Bajazeth_, byfaire meanes or force to obtaine his will: she propounded to her selfe(with magnanimity of spirit) to tread all misfortunes under her feete,commaunding her women (whereof she had but three now remaining alive)that they should not disclose what she was; except it were in somesuch place, where manifest signes might yeeld hope of regaining theirliberty. Moreover, shee admonished them, stoutly to defend their honourand chastity, affirming, that shee had absolutely resolved with herselfe, that never any other should enjoy her, but her intended husband;wherein her women did much commend her, promising to preserve theirreputation, according as she had commanded.
Day by day were the torments of _Bajazeth_ wonderfully augmented, yetstill his kinde offers scornefully refused, and he as farre off fromcompassing his desires, as when hee first began to moove the matter:wherefore, perceiving that all faire courses served to no effect, heeresolved to compasse his purpose by craft and subtilty, reservingrigorous extremity for his finall conclusion. And having once observed,that wine was very pleasing to the Lady, she being never used to drinkeany at all, because (by her Countries law) it was forbidden her, and nomeane store having beene lately brought to _Bajazeth_ in a Barke of_Geneway_: hee resolved to surprize her by meanes thereof, as a chiefeMinister of _Venus_, to heate the coolest blood. And seeming now in hisoutward behaviour, as if he had given over his amorous pursuite, andwhich she strove by all her best endeavours to withstand: one night,after a very majestick and solemne manner, he prepared a delicate andsumptuous supper, whereto the Lady was invited: and hee had givenorder, that hee who attended on her Cup, should serve her with manywines compounded and mingled together, which hee accordingly performed,as being cunning enough in such occasions.
_Alathiella_, mistrusting no such trecherie intended against her, andliking the wines pleasing taste extraordinarily; dranke more thenstoode with with her precedent modest resolution, and forgetting allher passed adversities, became very frollick and merry: so that seeingsome women daunce after the manner observed therein _Majorica_, shealso fell to dauncing, according to the _Alexandrian_ custome. Whichwhen _Bajazeth_ beheld, he imagined the victory to be more then halfewone, and his hearts desire very neere the obtaining: plying her stillwith wine upon wine, and continuing this revelling the most part ofthe night. At the length, the invited guests being all gone, theLady retired then to her chamber, attended on by none but _Bajazeth_himselfe, and as familiarly, as if hee had beene one of her women, sheeno way contradicting his bold intrusion, so faire had wine over-goneher sences, and prevailed against all modest bashfulnesse. Thesewanton embracings, strange to her that had never tasted them before,yet pleasing beyond measure, by reason of his trecherous advantage:afterward drew on many more of the like carowsing meetings, without somuch as a thought of her passed miseries, or those more honourable andchaste respects, that ever ought to attend on Ladies.
Now, Fortune envying these their stolne pleasures, and that she,being the purposed wife of a potent King, should thus become thewanton friend of a much meaner man, whose onely glory was her shame:altered the course of their too common pastimes, by preparing afarre greater infelicity for them. This _Bajazeth_ had a Brother,aged about five and twenty yeares, of most compleate person, in thevery beauty of his time, and fresh as the sweetest smelling Rose, hebeing named _Amurath_. After he had once seene this Lady (whose fairefeature pleased him beyond all womens else) she seemed in his suddaineapprehension, both by her outward behaviour and civill apparancie,highly to deserve his very best opinion, for she was not meanely entredinto his favour. Now he found nothing to his hinderance, in obtayningthe height of his hearts desire, but onely the strict custody andguard, wherein his brother _Bajazeth_ kept her: which raised a cruellconceit in his minde, whereon followed (not long after) as cruell aneffect.
It came to passe, that at the same time, in the Port of the Citie,called _Caffa_, there lay then a Ship laden with Merchandize, beingbound thence for _Smirna_, of which Ship two _Geneway_ Merchants(being brethren) were the Patrones and owners, who had given directionfor hoysing the sayles, to depart thence when the winde should serve.With these two _Genewayes Amurath_ had covenanted, for himselfe to goeabord the Ship the night ensuing, and the Lady in his company. Whennight was come, having resolved with himselfe what was to be done:in a disguised habite hee went to the house of _Bajazeth_, who stoodnot any way doubtfull of him, and with certaine of his most faithfullconfederates (whom he had sworne to the intended action) they hidthemselves closely in the house. After some part of the night wasover-past, hee knowing the severall lodgings both of _Bajazeth_ and_Alathiella_: slew his brother soundly sleeping, and seizing on theLady, whom hee found awake and weeping, threatned to kill her also,if shee made any noyse. So, being well furnished, with the greaterpart of costly Jewels belonging to _Bajazeth_, unheard or undescriedby anybody, they went presently to the Port, and there, without anyfurther delay, _Amurath_ and the Lady were received into the Ship, buthis companions returned backe againe; when the Mariners, having theirsayles ready set, and the winde aptly fitting for them, launched forthmerrily into the maine.
You may well imagine, that the Lady was extraordinarily afflictedwith griefe for her first misfortune, and now this second chancing sosuddainly, must needes offend her in greater manner: but _Amurath_did so kindly comfort her, with milde, modest, and manly perswasions;that all remembrance of _Bajazeth_ was quickly forgotten, and sheebecame converted to lovely demeanour, even when Fortune prepared afresh misery for her, as not satisfied with those whereof shee hadtasted already. The Lady being enriched with unequalled beauty (as weehave often related before) her behaviour also in such exquisite andcommendable kinde expressed: the two brethren, owners of the Ship,became so deepely enamoured of her, that forgetting all their moreserious affaires, they studied by all possible meanes, to be pleasingand gracious in her eye, yet with such a carefull cariage, that_Amurath_ should neither see or suspect it.
When the brethren had imparted their loves extremity each to theother, and plainely perceived, that though they were equally in theirfiery torments, yet their desires were utterly contrary: they beganseverally to consider, that gai
ne gotten by Merchandize, admittedan equall and honest division, but this purchase was of a differentquality, pleading the title of a sole possession, without any partneror intruder. Fearefull and jealous were they both, least either shouldayme at the others intention, yet willing enough to shake hands, inridding _Amurath_ out of the way, who onely was the hinderer of theirhopes. Whereupon they concluded together, that on a day, when theShip sayled on very swiftly, and _Amurath_ was sitting upon the deck,studiously observing, how the billowes combatted each with other, andnot suspecting any such treason in them towards him: stealing softlybehinde him, suddainly they threw him into the Sea, the Ship fleetingon above halfe a leagues distance, before any perceived his fall intothe Sea.
When the Lady heard thereof, and saw no likely meanes of recoveringhim againe, she fell to her wonted teares and lamentations: but thetwo Lovers came quickly to comfort her, using kinde words and pithieperswasions (albeit shee understood them not, or at the most verylittle) to appease the violence of her passions; and, to speakeuprightly, shee did not so much bemoane the loss of _Amurath_, asthe multiplying of her owne misfortunes, still one succeeding in thenecke of another. After divers long and well delivered Orations,as also very faire and courteous behaviour, they had indifferentlypacified her complaynings: they began to discourse and commune withthemselves, which of them had most right and title to _Alathiella_, and(consequently) ought to enjoy her. Now that _Amurath_ was gone, eachpleaded his priviledge to be as good as the others, both in the Ship,goods, and all advantages else whatsoever happening: which the elderbrother absolutely denied, alleadging first his propriety of birth,a reason sufficient, whereby his younger ought to give him place;likewise his right and interest both in ship and goods, to be more thenthe others, as being heire to his Father, and therefore in justiceto be highest preferred. Last of all, that his strength onely threw_Amurath_ into the Sea, and therefore gave him the full possession ofhis prize, no right at all remaining to his brother.
From temperate and calme speeches, they fell to frownes and ruderlanguage, which heated their blood in such violent manner, thatforgetting brotherly affection, and all respect of Parents or friends,they drew forth their Poniards, stabbing each other so often anddesperately, that before any in the shippe had the power or meanes topart them, both of them being very dangerously wounded, the youngerbrother fell downe dead, the elder being in little better case, byreceiving so many perilous hurts, remained (neverthelesse) living. Thisunhappy accident displeased the Lady very highly, seeing her selfethus left alone, without the help or counsell of any body, and fearinggreatly, least the anger of the two Brethrens Parents and Friends,should now be laide to her charge, and thereon follow severity ofpunishment. But the earnest entreaties of the wounded surviver, andtheir arrivall at _Smirna_ soone after, delivered him from the dangerof death, gave some ease to her sorrow, and there with him shee went onshore.
Remaining there with him in a common Inne, while he continued in theChirurgians cure, the fame of her singular and much admired beauty wassoone spread abroade throughout all the City; and amongst the rest, tothe hearing of the Prince of _Ionia_, who lately before (on very urgentoccasions) was come to _Smirna_. This rare rumour, made him desirousto see her, and after he had seene her, shee seemed farre fairer inhis eye, then common report had noysed her to be, and suddenly grewso enamored of her, that shee was the onely Idea of his best desires.Afterward, understanding in what manner shee was brought thither, hedevised how to make her his owne; practising all possible meanes toaccomplish it: which when the wounded brothers Parents heard of,they not onely made tender of their willingnesse therein, but alsoimmediately sent her to him: a matter most highly pleasing to thePrince, and likewise to the Lady her selfe; because shee thought now tobe freed from no meane perill, which (otherwise) the wounded Merchantsfriends might have inflicted on her.
The Prince perceiving, that beside her matchlesse beauty, shee hadthe true character of royall behaviour; greeved the more, that hecould not be further informed of what Countrey shee was. His opinionbeing so stedfastly grounded, that (lesse then Noble) shee could notbe, was a motive to set a keener edge on his affection towards her,yet not to enjoy her as in honourable and loving complement onely,but as his espoused Lady and Wife. Which appearing to her by apparantdemonstrations, though entercourse of speech wanted to confirme it;remembrance of her so many sad disasters, and being now in a most nobleand respected condition, her comfort enlarged it selfe with a setledhope, her feares grew free from any more molestations, and her beautiesbecame the onely theame and argument of private and publike conferencein all _Natolia_, that (welneere) there was no other discourse, in anyAssembly whatsoever.
Hereupon the Duke of _Athens_, being young, goodly, and valiant ofperson, as also a neere Kinsman to the Prince, had a desire to seeher; and under colour of visiting his noble Kinsman, (as oftentimesbefore he had done) attended with an honourable traine, to _Smirna_he came, being there most royally welcommed, and bounteously feasted.Within some few dayes of his there being, conference passed betweenethem, concerning the rare beauty of the Lady; the Duke questioning thePrince, whether shee was of such wonder, as fame had acquainted theWorld withall? Whereto the Prince replied; Much more (noble Kinsman)then can be spoken of, as your owne eyes shall witnesse, withoutcrediting any words of mine. The Prince solliciting the Duke theretovery earnestly, they both went together to see her; and shee havingbefore heard of their comming, adorned her selfe the more majestically,entertaining them with ceremonious demeanour (after her Countriescustome) which gave most gracious and unspeakable acceptation.
At the Princes affable motion, shee sate downe betweene them, theirdelight being beyond expression, to behold her, but abridged of muchmore felicity, because they understood not any part of her language:so that they could have no other conference, but by lookes and outwardsignes onely; and the more they beheld her, the more they marvelled ather rare perfections, especially the Duke, who hardly credited thatshee was a mortall creature. Thus not perceiving, what deepe carowsesof amorous poyson, his eyes dranke downe by the meere sight of her, yetthinking thereby onely to be satisfied; he lost both himselfe and hisbest sences, growing in love (beyond all measure) with her. When thePrince and he were parted from her, and hee was at his owne privateamorous meditations in his Chamber; he reputed the Prince far happierthen any man else whatsoever, by the enjoying of such a peerelessebeauty.
After many intricate and distracted cogitations, which molested hisbraines incessantly, regarding more his loves wanton heate, thenreason, kindred, and honourable hospitality; he resolutely determined(whatsoever ensued thereupon) to bereave the Prince of his fairefelicity, that none but himselfe might possesse such a treasure,which he esteemed to be the height of all happinesse. His couragebeing conformable to his bad intent, with all hast it must be put inexecution; so that equity, justice, and honesty, being quite abandoned,nothing but subtill stratagems were now his meditations. On a day,according to a fore compacted treachery, which he had ordered with aGentleman of the Princes Chamber, who was named _Churiacy_; he preparedhis horses to be in readinesse, and dispatched all his affaires elsefor a sudden departure. The night following, he was secretly conveyedby the said _Churiacy_, and a friend of his with him (being botharmed) into the Princes Chamber, where he (while the Lady was soundlysleeping) stood at a gazing window towards the Sea, naked in his shirt,to take the coole ayre, because the season was exceeding hot. Havingformerly enstructed his friend what was to be done, verie softly theystept to the Prince, and running their weapons quite thorow his body,immediately they threw him forth of the window.
Here you are to observe, that the Pallace was seated on the Sea shore,and very high, and the window whereat the Prince then stood lookingfoorth, was directly over divers houses, which the long continuanceof time, and incessant beating on by the surges of the Sea, had sodefaced and ruined them, as sildome they were visited by any person;whereof the Duke having knowledge before, was the easier perswaded,that the falling of the Princes body in
so vaste a place, could neitherbe heard, or descried by any. The Duke and his companion having thusexecuted what they came for, proceeded yet in their cunning a littlefurther; casting a strangling coard about the necke of _Churiacy_,seeming as if they hugged and embraced him: but drew it with so mainestrength, that he never spake one word after, and so threw him downeafter the Prince.
This done, and plainely perceiving that they were not heard or seene,either by the Lady, or any other: the Duke tooke a light in his hand,going on to the bed, where the Lady lay most sweetely sleeping; whomthe more he beheld, the more he admired and commended: but if in hergarments shee appeared so pleasing, what did shee now in a bed ofsuch state and Majesty? Being no way daunted by his so late committedsinne, but swimming rather in surfet of joy, his hands all bloody,and his soule much more uglie; he laide him downe on the bed by her,bestowing infinite kisses and embraces on her, she supposing him tobe the Prince all this while, nor opening her eyes to be otherwiseresolved. But this was not the delight he aimed at, neither did hethinke it safe for him, to delay time with any longer tarying there:wherefore having his agents at hand fit and convenient for the purpose,they surprized her in such sort, that she could not make any noiseor outcry, and carrying her thorough the same false posterne, whereatthemselves had entred, laying her in a Princely litter; away they wentwith all possible speede, not tarrying in any place, untill they werearrived neere _Athens_. But thither hee would not bring her, becausehimselfe was a married man, but rather to a goodly Castle of his owne,not distant farre off from the City; where he caused her to be keptvery secretly (to her no little greefe and sorrow) yet attended on andserved in most honourable manner.
The Gentlemen usually attending on the Prince, having waited all thenext morning till noone, in expectation of his rising, and hearing nostirring in the Chamber: did thrust at the doore, which was but onelyclosed together, & finding no body there, they presently imagined,that he was privately gone to some other place, where (with the Lady,whom he so deerely affected) hee might remaine some few dayes forhis more contentment, and so they relied verily perswaded. Withinsome fewe dayes following, while no other doubt came in question, thePrinces Foole, entering by chance among the ruined houses, where laythe dead bodies of the Prince and _Churiacy_: tooke hold of the cordeabout _Churiacyes_ necke, and so went along dragging it after him. Thebodye being knowne to many, with no meane mervaile, how hee should beemurthered in so vile manner: by giftes and faire perswasions they wonnehim, to bring them to the place where hee found it. And there (to theno little greefe of all the Cittie) they found the Princes body also,which they caused to bee interred with all the most majesticke pompthat might bee.
Upon further inquisition, who should commit so horrid a deed,perceyving likewise, that the Duke of _Athens_ was not to be found, butwas closely gone: they judged (according to the truth) that he had hishand in this bloody businesse, and had carried away the Lady with him.Immediately, they elected the Princes brother to bee their Lord andSoveraigne, inciting him to revenge so horrid a wrong, and promising toassist him with their utmost power. The new chosen Prince being assuredafterward, by other more apparant and remarkeable proofes, that hispeople informed him with nothing but truth: sodainly, and according asthey had concluded, with the helpe of neighbours, kindred, and friends,collected from divers places; he mustred a goodly and powerful army,marching on towards _Athens_, to make war against the Duke.
No sooner heard he of this warlike preparation made against him, but helikewise levied forces for his owne defence, and to his succour camemany great States: among whom, the Emperor of _Constantinople_ sent hisSonne _Constantine_, attended on by his Nephew _Emanuell_, with troopesof faire and towardly force, who were most honourably welcommed andentertained by the Duke, but much more by the Dutchesse, because shewas their sister in law.
Military provision thus proceeding on daily more and more, the Dutchesmaking choise of a fit and convenient houre, took these two Princeswith her to a with-drawing Chamber; and there in flouds of tearesflowing from her eyes, wringing her hands, and sighing incessantly,shee recounted the whole History, occasion of the warre, and howdishonourably the Duke had dealt with her about this strange woman,whom he purposed to keepe in despight of her, as thinking that she knewnothing thereof, and complaining very earnestly unto them, entreatedthat for the Dukes honour, and her comfort, they would give their bestassistance in this case.
The two young Lords knew all this matter, before shee thus reportedit to them; and therefore, without staying to listen her any longer,but comforting her so wel as they could, with promise of their bestemployed paines: being informed by her, in what place the Lady wasso closely kept, they tooke their leave, and parted from her. Oftenthey had heard the Lady much commended, and her incomparable beautyhighly extolled, yea, even by the Duke himselfe; which made them themore desirous to see her: wherefore earnestly they solicited him, tolet them have a sight of her, and he (forgetting what happened to thePrince, by shewing her so unadvisedly to him) made them promise togrant their request. Causing a magnificent dinner to be prepared, & ina goodly garden, at the Castle where the Lady was kept: on the morrowmorning, attended on by a small train, away they rode to dine with her.
_Constantine_ being seated at the Table, he began (as one confoundedwith admiration) to observe her judiciously, affirming secretly to hissoule that he had never seene so compleat a woman before; and allowingit for justice, that the Duke, or any other whosoever, if (to enjoyso rare a beauty) they had committed treason, or any mischiefe elsebeside, yet in reason they ought to be held excused. Nor did he bestowso many lookes upon her, but his prayses infinitely surpassed them,as thinking that he could not sufficiently commend her, following theDuke step by step in affection: for being now growne amorous of her,and remembrance of the intended warre utterly abandoned; no otherthoughts could come neerer him, but how to bereave the Duke of her, yetconcealing his love, and not imparting it to any one.
While his fancies were thus amorously set on fire, the time came, thatthey must make head against the Prince, who already was marching withinthe Dukes Dominions: wherefore the Duke _Constantine_ and all the rest,according to a counsell held among them, went to defend certaine of thefrontiers, to the end that the Prince might passe no further. Remainingthere divers dayes together, _Constantine_, who could thinke on nothingelse, but the beautifull Lady, considered with himselfe, that while theDuke was now so far off from her, it was an easie matter to compassehis intent: hereupon, the better to colour his present returne to_Athens_, he seemed to be surprized with a sudden extreame sicknesse,in regard whereof (by the Dukes free lisence, and leaving all his powerto his Cousen _Emanuel_) forthwith he journeyed backe to _Athens_.After some conference had with his sister, concerning her dishonourablewrongs endured at his hands only by the Lady: he solemnly protested,that if shee were so pleased, he would aide her powerfully in thematter, by taking her from the place where she was, and never moreafterward, to be seene in that Countrey any more.
The Dutchesse being faithfully perswaded, that he would doe thisonely for her sake, and not in any affection he bare to the Lady,made answer that it highly pleased her; alwayes provided, that itmight be performed in such sort, as the Duke her Husband shouldnever understand, that ever shee gave any consent thereto, which_Constantine_ sware unto her by many deep oathes, whereby she referredall to his owne disposition. _Constantine_ hereupon secretly preparedin readinesse a subtill Barke, sending it (in an evening) neere to thegarden where the Lady resorted; having first informed the people whichwere in it, fully in the businesse that was to be done. Afterward,accompanied with some other of his attendants, hee went to the Palaceto the Lady, where he was gladly entertained, not only by such aswaited on her, but also by the Lady her selfe.
Leading her along by the arme towards the Garden, attended on by two ofher servants, and two of his owne, seeming as if he was sent from theDuke, to conferre with her: they walked alone to a Port opening on theSea, which standing ready open, upon a signe given by h
im to one of hiscomplices, the Barke was brought close to the shore, and the Lady beingsuddenly seized on, was immediately conveyed into it; and he returningbacke to her people, with his sword drawne in his hand, saide: Let noman stirre, or speake a word, except he be willing to loose his life:for I intend not to rob the Duke of his faire friend, but to expel theshame and dishonour which he hath offered to my Sister, no one beingso hardy as to returne him any answer. Aboard went _Constantine_ withhis consorts, and sitting neer to the Lady, who wrung her hands, andwept bitterly; he commanded the Marriners to launch forth, flying awayon the wings of the wind, till about the breake of day following, theyarrived at _Melasso_. There they tooke landing, and reposed on shorefor some few dayes, _Constantine_ labouring to comfort the Lady, evenas if shee had been his owne Sister, shee having good cause to curseher infortunate beauty.
Going aboard the Barke againe, within few dayes they came to _Setalia_,and there fearing the reprehension of his Father, and least the Ladieshould be taken from him; it pleased _Constantine_ to make his stay,as in a place of no meane security. And (as before) after much kindebehaviour used towards the Lady, without any meanes in her selfe toredresse the least of all these great extremities: shee became moremilde and affable, for discontentment did not a jot quaile her.
While occurrences passed on in this manner, it fortuned, that _Osbech_the King of _Turky_ (who was in continuall war with the Emperour)came by accident to _Laiazzo_: and hearing there how lasciviously_Constantine_ spent his time in _Setalia_, with a Lady which hehad stolne, being but weake and slenderly guarded; in the nightwith certaine well provided ships, his men & he entred the Towne, &surprized many people in their beds, before they knew of their enemiescomming, killing such as stood upon their defence against them, (amongwhom was _Constantine_) and burning the whole Towne, brought theirbooty and prisoners aboard their ships, wherewith they returned backeto _Laiazzo_. Being thus come to _Laiazzo, Osbech_, who was a brave andgallant young man, upon a review of the pillage; found the faire Lady,whom hee knew to be the beloved of _Constantine_, because shee wasfound lying on his bed. Without any further delay, he made choyse ofher to be his Wife; causing his nuptials to be honourably sollemnized,and many moneths hee lived there in great joy with her.
But before occasions grew to this effect, the Emperour made aconfederacy with _Bassano_, King of _Cappadocia_, that hee shoulddescend with his forces; one way upon _Osbech_, and hee would assaulthim with his power on the other. But he could not so conveniently bringthis to passe, because the Emperour would not yeeld to _Bassano_, inany unreasonable matter he demanded. Neverthelesse, when he understoodwhat had happened to his Son (for whom his griefe was beyond allmeasure) he granted the King of _Cappadociaes_ request, sollicitinghim with all instancy, to be the more speedy in assailing _Osbech_.It was not long, before hee heard of this conjuration made againsthim; and therefore speedily mustered up all his forces, ere he wouldbe encompassed by two such potent Kings, and marched on to meete theKing of _Cappadocia_, leaving his Lady and Wife, (for her safety) at_Laiazzo_, in the custodie of a true and loyall servant of his.
Within a short while after, he drew neere the Campe belonging to theKing of _Cappadocia_, where boldly he gave him battell; chancingtherein to be slaine, his Army broken and discomfited, by meaneswhereof the King of _Cappadocia_ remaining Conquerour, marched ontowards _Laiazzo_, every one yeelding him obeysance all the way ashe went. In the meane space, the servant to _Osbech_, who was named_Antiochus_, and with whom the faire Lady was left in guard; althoughhee was aged, yet seeing shee was so extraordinarily beautifull, hefell in love with her, forgetting the sollemne vowes he had made tohis Master. One happinesse hee had in this case to helpe him, namely,that he understood and could speake her language, a matter of no meanecomfort to her; who constrainedly had lived divers yeeres together,in the state of a deafe or dumbe woman, because every where else theyunderstood her not, nor shee them, but by shewes and signes.
This benefit of familiar conference, beganne to embolden his hopes,elevate his courage, and make him seeme more youthfull in his owneopinion, then any ability of body could speake unto him, or promise himin the possession of her, who was so farre beyond him, and so unequallto be enjoyed by him; yet to advance his hopes a great deale higher,newes came, that _Osbech_ was vanquished and slaine, and that _Bassano_made everie where havocke of all: whereon they concluded together, notto tarrie there any longer, but storing themselves with the goods of_Osbech_, secretly they departed thence to _Rhodes_. Being seated therein some indifferent abiding, it came to passe, that _Antiochus_ fellinto a deadly sicknesse, to whom came a _Cyprian_ Merchant, one muchesteemed by him, as being an intimate friend and kinde acquaintance,and in whom hee reposed no small confidence. Feeling his sicknesseto encrease more and more upon him dayly, hee determined, not onelyto leave such wealth as hee had to this Merchant, but the faire Ladylikewise; and calling them both to his beds side, he brake his mindeunto them in this manner.
Deare Love, and my most worthily respected friend, I perceive plainlyand infallibly, that I am drawing neere unto my end, which muchdiscontenteth me; because my hope was, to have lived longer in thisworld, for the enjoying of your kinde and most esteemed company. Yetone thing maketh my death very pleasing and welcome to me, namely,that lying thus in my bed of latest comfort in this life: I shallexpire and finish my course, in the armes of those two persons, whomI most affected in all this world, as you my ever dearest friend, andyou faire Lady, whom (since the very first sight of you) I loved andhonoured in my soule. Irksome and very grievous it is to me, that (if Idye) I shall leave you here a stranger, without the counsaile and helpeof any body: and yet much more offensive would it become, if I had notsuch a friend as you here present, who I am faithfully perswaded, willhave the like care and respect of her (even for my sake) as of myselfe,if time had allotted my longer tarying here. And therefore (worthyfriend) most earnestly I desire you, that if I dye, all mine affairesand she may remaine to your trusty care, as being (by my selfe)absolutely commended to your providence, and so to dispose both of theone and other, as may best agree with the comfort of my soule. As foryou (choise beauty) I humbly entreate, that after my death you wouldnot forget mee, to the end, I may make my vaunt in another world, thatI was affected here, by the onely fairest Lady that ever Nature framed.If of these two things you will give me assurance; I shall depart fromyou with no meane comfort.
The friendly Merchant, and likewise the Lady, hearing these words,wept both bitterly, and after hee had given over speaking: kindlythey comforted him, with promise and solemne vowes, that if hee dyed,all should be performed which he had requested. Within a short whileafter, he departed out of this life, and they gave him very honourableburiall, according to that Country custome. Which being done, theMerchant dispatching all his affaires at _Rhodes_, was desirous toreturne home to _Cyprus_, in a Carrack of the Catelans then therebeing: moving the Lady in the matter, to understand how shee stoodenclined, because urgent occasions called him thence to _Cyprus_. TheLady made answere, that she was willing to passe thither with him,hoping for the love hee bare to deceased _Antiochus_, that he wouldrespect her as his Sister. The Merchant was willing to give her anycontentment, but yet resolved her, that under the title of being hisSister, it would be no warrant of security to them both; whereforehee rather advised her, to stile him as her husband, and hee wouldterme her his wife, and so hee should be sure to defend her from allinjuries whatsoever.
Being abord the Carrack, they had a Cabine and small bed convenientlyallowed them, where they slept together, that they might the betterbe reputed as man and wife; for, to passe otherwise, would have beenevery dangerous to them both. And questionlesse, their faithfull promisemade at _Rhodes_ to _Antiochus_, sicknesse on the Sea, and mutuallrespect they had of each others credit, was a constant restraint to allwanton desires, and a motive rather to incite chastity, then otherwise,and so (I hope) you are perswaded of them. But howsoever, the windesblewe merrily, the Carrack sayled lustily, and (by this time) they
arearrived at _Baffa_, where the _Cyprian_ Merchant dwelt, and where sheecontinued a long while with him, no one knowing otherwise, but thatshee was his wife indeede.
Now it fortuned, that there arrived also at the same _Baffa_ (aboutsome especiall occasions of his) a Gentleman, whose name was_Antigonus_, well stept into yeares, and better stored with wisedomethen wealth: because by medling in many matters, while hee followed theservice of the King of _Cyprus_, Fortune had beene very adverse to him.This ancient Gentleman, passing (on a day) by the house where the Ladylay, and the Merchant being gone about his businesse into _Armenia_:hee chanced to see the Lady at a window of the house, and because sheewas very beautifull, he observed her the more advisedly, recollectinghis sences together, that doubtlesse he had seene her before, but inwhat place hee could not remember. The Lady her selfe likewise, whohad so long time beene Fortunes tennis ball, and the terme of hermany miseries drawing now neere ending: began to conceive (upon thevery first sight of _Antigonus_) that she had formerly seene him in_Alexandria_, serving her Father in place of great degree. Hereupon,a suddaine hope perswaded her, that by the advice and furtherance ofthis Gentleman, she should recover her wonted Royall condition: andopportunity now aptly fitting her, by the absence of her pretendedMerchant husband, she sent for him, requesting to have a few words withhim.
When he was come into the house, she bashfully demanded of him, if hewas not named _Antigonus_ of _Famagosta_, because shee knew one (likehim) so called? Hee answered, that he was so named, saying moreover:Madame, me thinkes that I should know you, but I cannot rememberwhere I have seene you, wherefore I would entreate (if it might standwith your good liking) that my memory might be quickned with betterknowledge of you. The Lady perceiving him to be the man indeede,weeping incessantly, she threw her armes about his necke, and sooneafter asked _Antigonus_ (who stood as one confounded with mervaile) ifhee had never seene her in _Alexandria_? Upon these words, _Antigonus_knew her immediatly to be _Alathiella_, daughter to the great Soldane,who was supposed (long since) to be drowned in the Sea: and offeringto doe her such reverence as became him, she would not permit him, butdesired, that he would be assistant to her, and willed him also to sitdowne a while by her.
A goodly Chaire being brought him, in very humble manner he demanded ofher, what had become of her in so long a time: because it was verilybeleeved throughout all Egypt, that shee was drowned in the Sea. Iwould it had bin so, answered the Lady, rather then to leade such alife as I have done; and I thinke my Father himselfe would wish it so,if ever he should come to the knowledge thereof. With these words theteares rained downe her faire cheekes: wherefore _Antigonus_ thus spakeunto her. Madame, discomfort not your selfe before you have occasion,but (if you be so pleased) relate your passed accidents to mee, andwhat the course of your life hath bene: perhaps, I shall give you suchfriendly advice as may stand you in sted, and no way be injurious toyou.
Fetching a sigh, even as if her heart would have split in sunder,thus she replyed. Ah _Antigonus_, me thinkes when I looke on thee, Iseeme to behold my royall Father, and therefore mooved with the likereligious zeale and charitable love, as (in duty) I owe unto him: Iwill make knowne to thee, what I rather ought to conceale, and hidefrom any person living. I know thee to bee honourable, discreete, andtruely wise, though I am a fraile, simple, and weake woman, thereforeI dare discover to thee, rather then any other that I know, by whatstraunge and unexpected misfortunes, I have lived so long obscurely inthe world. And if in thy great and grave judgement (after the hearingof my many miseries) thou canst any way restore me to my former estate,I pray thee do it: but if thou perceive it impossible to bee done, asearnestly likewise I entreate thee, never to reveale to any livingperson, that either thou hast seene me, or heard any speech of me.After these words, the teares still streaming from her faire eyes,shee recounted the whole passage of her rare mishaps, even from hershipwracke in the Sea of _Majorica_, until that very instant houre;speaking them in such harsh manner as they hapned, and not sparing anyjot of them.
_Antigonus_ being mooved to much compassion, declared how hee pitiedher by his teares, and having bene silent an indifferent while, asconsidering in this case, what was best to be done, thus he began.Madam, seeing you have past through such a multitude of misfortunes,yet undiscovered, what and who you are: I will render you as blamelesseto your Father, and estate you as fairely in his love, as at the hourwhen you parted from him, and afterward make you wife to the King of_Cholcos_. She demanding of him, by what meanes possibly this couldbe accomplished: breefely he made it knowne to her, how, and in whatmanner hee would performe it.
To cut off further tedious circumstances, forthwith he returned to_Famagosta_, and going before the King of the country, thus he spaketo him. Sir, you may (if so you will be pleased) in an instant, do mean exceeding honour, who have bene impoverished by your service, andalso a deed of great renowne to your selfe, without any much matter ofexpence and cost. The King demanding how? _Antigonus_ thus answered.The fayre daughter of the Soldane, so generally reported to be drowned,is arrived at _Baffa_, and to preserve her honour from blemishing,hath suffered many crosses and calamities: being at this instant invery poore estate, yet desirous to re-visite her father. If you pleaseto send her home under my conduct, it will be great honour to you, andno meane benefite to mee; which kindnesse will for ever be thankfullyremembred by the Soldan.
The King in royall magnificence, replied sodainly, that he was highlypleased with these good tydings; & having sent honourably for her from_Baffa_, with great pompe she was conducted to _Famagosta_, and theremost graciously welcommed both by the King and Queene, with solemnetriumphes, bankets, and revelling, performed in most Majesticke manner.Being questioned by the King and Queene, concerning so large a time ofstrange misfortunes: according as _Antigonus_ had formerly enstructedher, so did she shape the forme of her answers, and satisfied (withhonour) all their demands. So, within few dayes after, upon her earnest& instant request, with an honourable traine of Lords and Ladies, sheewas sent thence, and conducted all the way by _Antigonus_, untill shecame unto the Soldans Court.
After some few dayes of her reposing there, the Soldan was desirousto understand, how she could possibly live so long, in any Kingdomeor Province whatsoever, and yet no knowledge to bee taken of her? TheLady, who perfectly retained by heart, and had all her lessons at herfingers ends, by the warie instructions which _Antigonus_ had givenher, answered her father in this manner. Sir, about the twentith dayafter my departure from you, a verie terrible and dreadfull tempestover-tooke us, so that in dead time of the night, our ship being splitin sunder upon the sands, neere to a place called _Varna_; what becameof all the men that were aboord, I neither know, or ever heard of.Onely I remember, then when death appeared, and I being recovered fromdeath to life, certaine pezants of the countrey, comming to get whatthey could finde in the ship so wrackt, I was first (with two of mywomen) brought and set safely on the shore.
No sooner were we there, but certaine rude shagge-haird villaines setupon us, carrying away from me both my women, then haling me along bythe haire of my head, neither teares or intercessions could draw anypitty from them. As thus they dragd me into a spacious Woodd, fourehorsemen on a sodaine came riding by, who seeing how dishonourably thevillaines used me, rescued me from them, and forced them to flight. Butthe foure horsemen, seeming (in my judgement) to bee persons of powerand authority, letting them go, came to mee, urging sundry questionsto me, which neither I understood, or they mine answers. After manydeliberations held among themselves, setting me upon one of theirhorses, they brought me to a Monastery of religious women, accordingto the custome of their law: and there, whatsoever they did or sayde,I know not, but I was most benignely welcommed thither, and honouredof them extraordinarily, where (with them in devotion) I dedicatedmy selfe to the Goddesse of chastity, who is highly reverenced andregarded among the women of that Countrey, and to her religiousservice, they are wholly addicted.
After I had continued some time among them, and lear
ned a little oftheir language; they asked me, of whence, and what I was. Reason gaveme so much understanding, to be fearfull of telling them the trueth,for feare of expulsion from among them, as an enemy to their Law andReligion: wherefore I answered (according as necessity urged) that Iwas daughter to a Gentleman of _Cyprus_, who sent me to bee married in_Candie_; but our fortunes (meaning such as had the charge of mee) fellout quite contrary to our expectation, by losses, Shipwracke, and othermischances; adding many matters more beside, onely in regard of feare,& yeelding obediently to observe their customes.
At length, she that was in cheefest preheminence among these Women(whom they termed by the name of their Lady Abbesse) demaunded ofme, whither I was willing to abide in that condition of life, or toreturne home againe into _Cyprus_. I answerd, that I desired nothingmore. But she, being very carefull of mine honour, would never reposeconfidence in any that came for _Cyprus_; till two honest Gentlemenof _France_, who hapned thither about two moneths since, accompaniedwith their wives, one of them being a neere kinswoman to the LadyAbbesse. And she well knowing, that they travelled in pilgrimage to_Jerusalem_, to visit the holy Sepulcher, where (as they beleeve) thathe whom they held for their God was buried, after the Jewes had put himto death: recommended me to their loving trust, with especial charge,for delivering me to my Father in _Cyprus_. What honourable love andrespect I found in the company of those Gentlemen and their wives,during our voyage backe to _Cyprus_: the history would be over-tediousin reporting, neither is it much material to our purpose, because yourdemand is to another end.
Sayling on prosperously in our Ship, it was not long, before weearrived at _Baffa_, where being landed, and not knowing any person,neither what I should say to the Gentlemen, who onely were carefullfor delivering me to my Father, according as they were charged by thereverend Abbesse: it was the will of heaven doubtlesse (in pitty andcompassion of my passed disasters) that I was no sooner come on shoreat _Baffa_: but I should there haply meete with _Antigonus_, whome Icalled unto in our countrey Language, because I would not be understoodby the Gentlemen nor their wives, requesting him to acknowledge me ashis Daughter. Quickly he apprehended mine intention, accomplishingwhat I requested, and (according to his poore power) most bounteouslyfeasted the Gentlemen and their wives, conducting me to the K. of_Cyprus_, who received me royally, and sent me home to you with somuch honour, as I am no way able to relate. What else remaineth to besaid, _Antigonus_ who hath oft heard the whole story of my fortunes, atbetter leisure will report.
_Antigonus_ then turning to the Soldan, said: My Lord, as shee hathoften told me, and by relation both of the Gentlemen and their wives,she hath delivered nothing but trueth. Onely shee hath forgottensomewhat worth the speaking, as thinking it not fit for her to utter,because (indeede) it is not so convenient for her. Namely, how muchthe Gentlemen and their wives (with whom she came) commended the rarehonesty and integrity of life, as also the unspotted vertue, whereinshe lived, among those chaste Religious women, as they constantly (bothwith teares and solemne protestations) avouched to me, when kindlythey resigned their charge to mee. Of all which matters, and many morebeside, if I should make discourse to your Excellencie; this wholeday, the night ensuing, and the next dayes full extendure, are notsufficient to acquaint you withall. Let it suffice then, that I havesaid so much, as (both by the reports, and mine owne understanding) maygive you faithfull assurance, to make your Royall vaunt; of having thefayrest, most vertuous, and honest Lady to your Daughter, of any Kingor Prince whatsoever.
The Soldane was joyfull beyond all measure, welcomming both him andthe rest in most stately manner, oftentimes entreating the Gods veryheartily, that he might live to requite them with equall recompence,who had so graciously honoured his daughter: but (above all the rest)the King of _Cyprus_, who sent her home so majestically. And havingbestowne great gifts on _Antigonus_, within a few dayes after, hee gavehim leave to returne to _Cyprus_: with thankfull favours to the Kingas well by Letters, as also by Ambassadours espresly sent, both fromhimselfe and his daughter.
When as this businesse was fully finished, the Soldane, desiring toaccomplish what formerly was intended and begun, namely, that sheemight be wife to the King of _Cholcos_: he gave him intelligence ofall that had happened, writing moreover to him, that (if he were sopleased) hee would yet send her in Royall manner to him. The King of_Cholcos_ was exceeding joyfull of these glad tydings, and dispatchinga worthy trayne to fetch her, she was convayed thither very pompously,and she who had beene embraced by so many, was received by him asan honest virgine, living long time after with him in much joy andfelicity. And therefore, it hath beene said as a common Proverbe: Themouth well kist comes not short of good fortune, but is still renewedlike the Moone.
The Decameron (Day 1 to Day 5) Page 22