The Travels of Persiles and Sigismunda. A Northern History. Wherein, amongst the variable fortunes of the Prince of Thule and this Princess of Friesland, are interlaced many witty discourses, moral, political, and delightful. The first copy, being written in Spanish; translated afterward into French; and now, last, into English. To the Right Honourable, and my singular good Lord, Philip, Lord Stanhope, Baron of Shelford. Right Honourable: This translation falling into my hands by chance, not knowing whose labour hath brought it to light: as I thought it fit for the press, so I did not think anyone more worthy under the patronage of whose name it might pass securely than your Honour's: unto whom my humble and dutiful love obligeth me, not alone to offer this unto your Honour's favourable acceptance, but also all the endeavours of your humble servant ML. To the Reader. Thou hast here, Reader, the effects of importunity and idleness. For, I must confess, importunity could not prevail alone, although I was much pressed. But, considering that Præstat nugas agere, quam nihil agere, I have given it birth in this language, not doubting but the variety thereof may rob some hours from thy untimely sleep; and the seriousness of it, divert idleness from bringing forth worse effects. Neither is it altogether so light, but that thou mayest sometimes play the bee. The author is a Spaniard, whose style becomes him well in his own mouth; and his works of this kind have raised his name, and approved his spirit, not alone in his own country, but in others. If it anyway please thee, thou hast it; but know, rather by a kind of enforcement, than willingly. Farewell. THE HISTORY OF THE FORTUNES and painful adventures of noble Persiles, Prince of Thule, and of the fair Sigismunda, Princess of Friesland. The First Book CHAPTER I. How Corcicurbo the barbarian draws, out of a deep dungeon, a young man endued with extreme beauty, and after suffers shipwreck. At the mouth of a deep dungeon, more aptly resembling a grave where many bodies had been buried alive than a prison, Corcicurbo the barbarian called aloud: and although the terrible sound of his fearful voice was heard far and near, yet none could understand his words but the unhappy Clelia, whom her misfortunes had caused to be shut up in this deep cave. "Clelia," said the barbarian, "cause the young man which we delivered unto thee about two days ago to come up hither in bonds as he is, by the rope which I will immediately let down; and look if amongst the women last taken, there be any one worthy of our company." Upon these speeches he let fall a great hempen rope, and shortly after four barbarians drew up a young man tied by the same under his arms, who showed to be about nineteen or twenty years of age, apparelled in coarse cloth like a mariner, but more beautiful than could be well expressed. The first act of these savages was to look upon the manacles and cords which he had on his hands; and then, shaking his hair that covered his head like small rings of fine gold, they made clean his face, which likewise was full of dust; whereupon they discovered such an admirable beauty, that it mollified the hearts even of the executioners themselves that led him unto death. As for the young man, he expressed no feeling of any affliction whatsoever: but contrarily, with face lifted up, looking upon heaven, and with eyes in outward appearance full of cheerfulness, he thus spake with a clear voice: "I give you thanks, oh pitiful heavens, for bringing me hither to die, in such a place where your brightness may behold my death, and not in such black dungeons where it shall be concealed by dark shadows. At the least because I am a Christian, I would not die desperately, albeit it my misfortunes are so great that they provoke, and in a manner constrain me to desire it." These barbarians understood not a word hereof, because he spake in a language differing from theirs; but laying a great stone on the mouth of the cave, they took the young man without unbinding him, and brought him to the seashore, where they had a raft made of divers beams of timber fastened together, serving them in stead of a boat for to pass unto another isle, which one might descry to be about two or three miles from thence. They presently leaped upon these timbers; and having caused the prisoner to sit down in the midst, one of them took a bow lying upon the raft, which he quickly bent, and therein set an arrow whose head was of flint, placing himself over against the young man, at whom he aimed as his white, and was ready to pierce his heart. The other barbarians took three staves fashioned like oars and one of them became the pilot; the other two forced forth the raft towards the isle. The fair young man, who every minute expected death, shrunk up his shoulders, shut his mouth, bent his brows, and in heart with profound silence entreated heaven not to be delivered from such cruel and imminent danger, but to be endued with courage to suffer it. Which the barbarous archer perceiving, whose stony heart the young man's beauty had already inclined to pity, he would not give him a lingering death by holding his arrow drawn to the head, and ready to be let fly against his breast; but throwing down the bow, he came unto him, and by signs in the best manner he could, gave him to understand that he would not kill him. Being upon these terms, the raft came into the midst of the strait enclosing the two isles, when such a flaw unlooked-for arose that, whatsoever help these trim sailors could afford, the beams of their raft were untied and severed into parts, upon one whereof, consisting of six timbers or thereabouts, he sat, who a little before feared nothing less than drowning. The storms made a grown sea, the winds and billows wrestled together, the barbarians were drowned, the timbers whereon the prisoner sat bound were carried into the main sea; the waves raked over him, whereby he was not only impeached to behold heaven, but was likewise deprived of means to pray that it would have compassion of his mishaps. Nevertheless, the continued fury of the waters which covered him every moment beat him not off from the beams that they drove with them, although that by reason his hands were bound at his back he could not catch or lay hold upon anything. In this manner floating upon the sea, that by this time was somewhat appeased, he doubled the point of a certain isle, whither the timbers approached, miraculously keeping him from wreck. There this poor young man, tired with two so different and perilous fortunes which he had undergone, looked round about and descried a ship not far from him, which had there put in for shelter against the sea and anchored in this road as in an haven of safety. They of the ship also discovered the raft, with the charge appearing thereon: wherein, to be the better assured what it might be, they let out their skiff, wherewith they came to the timbers, and finding the young man no less fair than disfigured, they with diligence and compassion conveyed him unto the ship, filling all that were there with admiration for the novelty of this encounter. He was helped aboard: but, being unable to stand through feebleness, in that he had remained three days without sustenance and been so beaten with the waves, he fell with great noise upon the hatches. The captain, with a noble and pitiful affection, commanded that he should be succoured; whereupon one went readily to unbind his hands, others to bring conserves and wines; by which remedies, the man fallen into a swoon came again to himself, as it were from death to life. And looking upon the captain, whose courtesy and rich attire drew his sight that way, he spoke unto him in this manner. "The merciful heavens requite you for the good which it hath pleased you, pitiful Sir, to afford me; for hardly can any man remove the mind's heaviness without repairing the decays of the body. My misfortunes have taken sure hold upon me, that I am not able to recompense this your goodness but by thanks only: but if a poor, afflicted man may be suffered to give himself any praise, I know that in grateful remembrance, not any man living shall ever go beyond me." In saying this he would have risen to kiss his feet, but his weakness would not permit it; for thrice he assayed, and thrice was constrained to fall down again. Which the captain perceiving, commanded him to be carried under the half-deck, his wet garments to be taken off, and drier, and handsomer to be put on his back, and then that he should rest a while. His commandments were accomplished, the young man obeyed with silence, and the captain's admiration increased when he saw him on his feet with so brave and cheerful disposition appearing in his person. Straightway he began to have an earnest and longing affection to know of him what he was, his name, and from what causes proceeded the effects of so great extremity, whereunto he was reduced. Yet because the captain's courtesy surmounted his curiosity, he was willing rather to relieve the stranger's weakness than he would give satisfaction to his own desire. CHAPTER II. Taurisa, Auristela's gentlewoman, relateth her misfortune to the fair Periander. The officers of the ship performed their captain's command, leaving the young man to take his rest. But because a multitude of sad thoughts oppressed him, sleep could never get possession of his senses, and much less would permit the grievous sighs and pitiful moans which he heard, and seemed to him to issue from betwixt the boards of a cabin adjoining unto his; wherefore disposing himself to hearken attentively, he heard these words. "Alas that my parents engendered me under an evil sign, and that my mother cast me headlong into the world's light, under an unhappy influence! I say, cast me headlong: for a birth like mine may rather be called precipitation than a birth. I thought to have enjoyed the sun's brightness in freedom, but my thoughts have beguiled me; for I see myself upon the point to be sold as a slave, by such a misfortune as exceedeth any other whatsoever". "Oh then, whosoever thou be," said the young man, "if the common speech be true, that mishaps and troubles are wont to be mitigated by imparting them, declare unto me for what cause thou sighest thus within these boards, and assure thyself, if I cannot ease them, at the least I will afford them compassion." "Hear me then," said one, "and I will relate unto thee what injury I have received by Fortune, as briefly as I can. But first I would know to whom I shall declare the same. Tell me if perhaps thou be that young man late found half dead upon the rafters, which they said serve instead of barks for the barbarians of this isle, whither we have arrived under covert from the tempest." "I am the very same," said the young man. "Tell me then who thou art," said the person that spake." "I would show thee," answered the other, "but that I desire thou shouldest oblige me first in recounting thy fortune; for I judge by the words which thou spakest but now, that it is not so good as thou wouldest." Answer was made unto him, "Give ear then, and I will open mine evils unto thee in two words. "The captain and lord of this ship is called Arnaldo, the King of Denmark his son and heir: into whose power by strange accidents and revolutions came a gentlewoman which was my mistress, of such exquisite beauty, that in my judgement she not only surpassed all others living in the world, but likewise whatsoever the most subtle wit could describe in the strongest imagination of man. Her discretion matched her beauty, and her misfortunes her discretion. Her name is Auristela, her parents were very rich, and of royal blood. This same, for whose perfections all praises are too little, saw herself sold, and was bought by Arnaldo, who hath loved her so sincerely, and as yet so passionately loves her, that albeit she be his slave, yet he would a thousand times make her his mistress, and take her to wife in lawful matrimony; whereunto his father consented, who judged that the rare virtues and perfections of Auristela deserved a greater matter than to be a queen. But she hath said always, that she cannot break the vow which she made, to continue a virgin all her lifetime, use what promises or threatenings they could. Yet Arnaldo amongst his doubtful imaginations entertained hope; sometimes relying on the alteration of time, sometimes on the mutable conditions of women; until it happened that Auristela, one day walking by the seaside, not like a slave, but as a queen, certain barks of pirates took and carried her away, no man knows whither. The Prince Arnaldo thought that these were the same pirates which had formerly sold her unto him, and who range all these seas, islands and shores, buying or taking by force the fairest maids they can find, to bring them into this isle where we are, which is inhabited by savage and cruel barbarians who, through the persuasion of the devil, or some old sorcerer, do believe that a king shall issue from amongst them who shall conquer the greatest part of the world. They be ignorant who the king shall be which they expect; but more assuredly to know it, this sorcerer hath appointed them to sacrifice all the men that shall arrive in their isle, whose hearts they must reduce into powder, giving the same to drink to their chiefest personages, with this charge: that he who shall swallow it down without altering his countenance, or showing any token of the least fear shall be chosen king; although it be not he that shall conquer the world, but a son of his. He further commanded them to bring into this isle all the maids whom they could buy or steal, whereof the fairest should be given immediately unto their king. These maids are well used, wherein only they show that they are not barbarous. And those whom they buy at a very high rate, they pay for them in pieces of uncoined gold, and in precious pearls, which are plentiful on the shores of this isle. Hereupon it cometh to pass that many amongst them have made themselves pirates or merchants for the great gain which they reap in this traffic. Arnaldo then, who as before I told you, imagining that Auristela may be in this isle, hath resolved to sell me to these barbarians, that he may be cleared of this suspicion, to this end: that abiding amongst them, I may serve him as a spy to know what he desireth. And his delay is nothing else but that the seas may be calm, to take land and conclude my sale. Consider now if I complain for good cause or not, seeing the fortune I look for is, to continue all my life amongst these barbarians. For I cannot presume so much of my beauty that I shall be queen, especially if any hard chance hath brought hither the incomparable Auristela. These are the grounds of the sighs which you have heard, and from this fear proceed the complaints wherewith I am tormented." Having thus said, she held her peace, and the young man remained silent for a time, holding his mouth close to these boards, which he moistened with great plenty of tears, feeling as it were a noose overthwart his throat. In the end after a while, he asked her if she had any inkling that Arnaldo had obtained his pleasure of Auristela, or if Auristela, being elsewhere in love, disdained Arnaldo, refusing so great a gift as a kingdom; for that he thought the laws of pleasure had greater power than those of religion. Whereunto she answered, that haply in her conceit, the times past might have given some cause to Auristela to love one Periander, a noble knight, whose good parts made him highly esteemed of all that knew him, and this was he that had drawn her from her country. Yet she had never heard him named amidst the continual plaints which she made of her misfortunes, nor in any other sort whatsoever. Then he demanded if she knew this Periander of whom she spake. "I know him not," said she, "only I have heard that this was he who carried away my mistress, into whose service I came shortly after Periander had left her by a strange accident." They were in this discourse when they heard Taurisa called, for so was her name, who now had concluded the discourse of her mishaps. Who hearing herself asked for: "Without doubt," said she, "the seas are quiet, and the tempest appeased, because they call me that I may be so unluckily delivered to these barbarians. Farewell, whosoever thou be, and heaven keep thee from falling into their hands, that the powder of thine heart may not witness the vanity of their foolish prophecy." They departed, Taurisa went unto the deck, the young man remained pensive, and asked for clothes to rise. They brought him a suit of green damask, cut after the fashion of that which he wore of cloth. He came up, Arnaldo received him with a merry countenance, and made him sit by him. They richly attired Taurisa like nymphs of the sea, or of the woods. Whilst this was adoing, to the great admiration of the young man, Arnaldo told him his love and his intentions, asking his counsel of that which he was purposed to do, praying him to declare if he liked well of the means which he would use to learn news of Auristela. The young man, which as well by the speeches of Taurisa as of Arnaldo himself had his soul filled with a thousand suspicious imaginations, discoursing in his mind what might happen if by adventure Auristela were found amongst these barbarians, made him this answer. "My lord, I am not of so ripe years to be capable of giving you counsel, but I am carried with an extreme desire to serve you. For the life which you have given me, the entertainment and favours which you have afforded me, oblige me to employ all that I can possible for you. My name is Periander, I was born of worthy parents, and my nobility is equal to my misfortunes, which here cannot be declared unto you. This Auristela, whom you search, is my sister, whom also I seek; and we lost her by divers strange accidents about a year ago. By her name and beauty which you commend so much, I am assured that it is she; and I would willingly give the life which I possess for the contentment I should receive in finding her. Wherefore, as having interest in this business, I have chosen this mean which amongst others I have desired in my fantasy, which although it be more perilous, yet it shall be more certain, and more short. You, my lord, are determined to sell this gentlewoman to the barbarians, to the end that being in their power, she may see if Auristela be also there. Whereof you may be informed, in making a second sale of another maid unto the same barbarians; and in the meanwhile that the bargain is a-making, Taurisa shall have means to tell you, or at the least give you a token, if Auristela be with the residue whom they buy and keep with so great care." "It is true," said Arnaldo, "and I have chosen Taurisa before any other of the four which are in this ship for the like effect, for that she hath been her maid and knows her better than any of them." "All this hath been well devised," said Periander, "yet I am of the mind that none can perform this better than myself, in regard that my age, my countenance, my particular interest, together with the knowledge which I have of Auristela, move and persuade me to take this enterprise upon me. Consider, my lord, if this advice like you, and do not defer it: for in things difficult, counsel and execution must go together." The reasons of Periander fitted so well Arnaldo's humour that, without staying upon any inconveniences which presented themselves before him, he effected it, and attired young Periander with many rich clothes whereof he had made good provision for Auristela, if by adventure he should find her, who seemed to be the fairest woman that ever Arnaldo had set eye upon, except the beauty of Auristela, for none other could match him. Those of the ship wondered, Taurisa was astonished, and the Prince confounded: who if he had not thought this had been Auristela's brother, the consideration of his sex had pierced his heart with a thousand pricks of jealousy. Finally, when Periander was thus disguised, they launched a little further into the sea, to the end the barbarians might descry them. The haste which Arnaldo made to know news of Auristela permitted him not first of all to inform himself of Periander's and of his sister's estate, although in reason this curiosity ought to go before the confidence which he reposed in him. But because it is a peculiar quality of lovers rather to employ their thoughts to seek means how to effect their desires, than about any other thing, he had no leisure to inquire of him that which had been profitable for him to know, and which afterward he knew when it was for him altogether unbehoveful. Being then a little further from the isle, they adorned their ship with flags and streamers which, shaking the air and kissing the waters, made a gallant sight. The calm sea, the clear sky, the noise of hautboyes and other instruments of peace and war put their hearts in suspense, especially the barbarians who, seeing them somewhat nigh, came to the seaside armed with their bows and arrows. The ship was somewhat less than a mile from the shore when they shot off all their ordnance, which were in great number, and great pieces; and letting down and launching their cockboat, into which only entered Arnaldo, Taurisa, and Periander, with six mariners, they put a white cloth in the top of a lance in sign of peace, which custom is observed almost by all nations of the world. That which ensued shall be told you in another chapter. CHAPTER III. Periander is sold to the barbarians, for a maid, and why. As the boat approached to the haven, the barbarians also came together, each one desiring to be first that should see what was within. And for a token that they received them in peace, they erected divers white cloths, making them wave in the air, and shot an infinite company of arrows in the wind; and some of them leaped hither and thither with an incredible agility. The boat could not come fully to land because it was low water; for the sea ebbs and flows in those quarters, as it doth with us. But the barbarians entered the sands on foot, to the number of twenty, coming so nigh that they might almost touch them with their hands. They carried on their shoulders a barbarian woman, but yet of great beauty, who before any other spake unto them in the Polonian tongue: "Our Governor demands who you are, wherefore you come, and what you seek. If perhaps you have any maid to sell, you shall be well paid for her; but if it be any other merchandise, we know not what to do therewith, for that thanks be to God we have in this isle whatsoever is necessary for man's life; neither have we any need to go from hence and seek it elsewhere." Arnaldo understood her very well and asked her if she were a barbarian by birth, or one of those who had been bought in that island; unto whom she said: "Answer first to what I ask, for my masters take no pleasure that I should enter into other discourse than that which directly concerneth our affairs." Which Arnaldo hearing, he answered: "We are by birth of the kingdom Denmark, executing the office of merchants and pirates, changing what we can, and selling what we can buy or steal. Now, amongst other prizes which we have taken, this maid is one," said he, in showing Periander, "who, because she is one of the fairest, or to speak more truly, the beautifulest of the world, we bring her hither to be sold, we knowing already the cause wherefore they are bought in this isle. And if it be so that your wise men's presages be true, you may well imagine how fair and valiant children this incomparable beauty will bear you." Having heard thus much, one of the barbarians demanded of the woman what Arnaldo said; which having expounded unto them, four of them departed immediately to certify the Governor. In the meanwhile, Arnaldo informed himself of this woman if amongst those of that isle there were any of so great beauty as she whom he would sell. "No," said she, "and although here be many, not one of them is equal unto me: for I am one of those accursed, ready to undergo the fortune to be queen of those barbarians, which should be the greatest misfortune that could possibly befall me." Those which were gone to land returned back, and with them the Governor himself, who might well be known by his rich apparel. Periander had covered his face with a transparent and fine veil, thereby to cast unawares, as it were, a flash of lightning from the brightness of her eyes in the sight of these barbarians, who beheld her attentively. The Governor spake to this barbarous woman, who thereupon said to Arnaldo that her master prayed him to take off his gentlewoman's veil. This was done, Periander arose, discovered his face, lifted his eyes to heaven, showed sorrow for his hard fortune, and darted the beams of his two suns here and there; which meeting with those of the barbarous captain, bore him to the earth: at the least he gave him to conceive so much, by adoring upon his knees this fair image whom he believed to be a woman; and speaking with his barbarous interpreter, the price was agreed upon in five words, and without loaving and bidding he gave whatsoever Arnaldo demanded. All the barbarians went into the isle, and instantly returned with an infinite number of gold pieces and long strings of fine pearls, which they gave by heaps without tally unto Arnaldo; who, taking Periander by the hand, delivered her unto the barbarian, willing the interpreter to certify him that within a few days he would return and sell him another maid, if not so fair, yet at least such a one as should be worthy of buying. Periander embraced all those in the bark, with his eyes full of tears, not proceeding from an effeminate courage, but upon consideration of the distresses which he had endured. Arnaldo made a sign to those of the ship that they should discharge their artillery, and the Governor to those of the isle to sound their instruments. And in one instant the cannons thundered on the one side, the music of the barbarians filled the air with many confused and different sounds on the other. With this rejoicing, Periander was brought to land on the shoulders on these barbarians. Arnaldo and his company returned to the ship, first having agreed with Periander that unless the wind enforced him, he should not go far from the isle, but as necessity should require to avoid discovery, and that he should return to sell Taurisa if need should require, because that by signs which Periander would give him, he should know whether Auristela were found or not; and if she were not in the isle, he would not fail to find means to recover Periander, in making open wars against them with all his forces and those of his friends. CHAPTER IV The meeting of Periander and Auristela, and of the strife that fell among the barbarians. Amongst those that accompanied the Governor in bargaining for the gentlewoman, there was a barbarian whose name was Bradamire, one of the most valiant and chiefest of the isle: a contemner of all law, proud even above pride, and as hardy as himself, for none could be found unto whom he might be compared. This man, then, as soon as he saw Periander, believing like the rest that he was a woman, cast in his mind to choose her for his own, without staying till the conditions of the prophecy were tried or accomplished. Now when Periander was come into the isle, many barbarians took him upon their shoulders in emulation one of another and, with demonstration of much mirth, carried her to a great tent erected in a pleasant and delightful meadow, situate in the midst of many others of less bigness, all covered with the skins of wild and tame beasts. The barbarous woman who had served for an interpreter at the bargain and sale went not from his company, but comforted him with words and reasons which he understood not. Shortly after this, the Governor appointed some to pass into the isle of the prison, and to bring from thence a young man, if there were any, to make a trial of his deceitful hope. They readily obeyed, and withal spread upon the ground certain skins of beasts, made in leather, and shapen to serve as tablecloths, upon which they cast, without rank and order, divers kinds of dry fruit; and certain of their principals being set, they began to eat, inviting Periander by signs to do the like. Bradamire alone stood on his feet, leaning on his bow, with his eyes fastened on him who he took to be a woman. The Governor prayed him to sit down, which he would not, but contrariwise turning his back, went out of the tent, giving a great sigh. Then came a barbarian which said to the Governor that, when he and 3 others went to the prison, there was a raft already upon the sea, bringing with them a prisoner and the woman that kept the prison. Upon these news they made an end of dinner, and the Governor and all the rest went down over against the raft to see it come, and Periander would bear him company, wherewith he was well pleased. When they came to the seashore, the prisoner and his keeper were already on the land. Periander looked earnestly to see if perhaps he might know that unlucky person, who by destiny was reduced to the same extremity wherein himself had been before; yet he could not discern his face, for that he held down his head; and this it seemed was of set purpose, that no man might see his countenance. But he took notice of the prisoner's keeper, whose sight and knowledge brought his mind into a quandary and troubled his senses, perceiving plainly that this was Clelia, the nurse of his dear mistress. Oh, how gladly would he have spoken unto her, but he durst not: wherefore, smothering his desires within his lips, he kept silence, waiting what might be the final end of this chance. The Governor, with an extreme, importunate desire to hasten his hopes and enjoy the happy company of Periander, commanded the young man immediately to be sacrificed and his heart brought to powder, to serve in this deceitful and ridiculous experiment. Instantly, many barbarians laid hold upon him, and without further ceremony, except to tie a cloth before his eyes and his hands at his back, they made him kneel down where, like a lamb, without speaking a word, he attended the stroke of death. Which the ancient Clelia seeing, she lifted up her voice and, with more courage than could be hoped for in one of that age, she began to say: "Take heed, O Governor, what thou dost; for this party whom thou art about to sacrifice is no man, and consequently cannot serve thy turn, because she is a woman, and the fairest that can be imagined. Speak, beauteous Auristela, permit them not to take away thy life, neither be so borne down with the stream of thy misfortunes as to distrust the providence of heaven, which is able to preserve thee, and give thee a joyful and happy estate." Upon these words the barbarians refrained the blow, even when the knife's shadow had already marked the throat of the patient. The Governor commanded her to be unbound and that, her hands loosed, they should also restore light to her eyes. Then, looking upon her attentively, he thought he saw the fairest face of a woman that ever his eye beheld, judging that, except Periander, none in the world was able to match her. What tongue might express, or pen set down, the motions which Periander felt when he knew that she who was judged to die, and after freed, was Auristela? His sight and breath failed which, as soon as he had recovered, with a weak and staggering pace he ran to embrace that fair one, whom he held in his arms, and said unto her, "O dear half of my soul, pillar of my hopes, and a pledge which I cannot say I have found by my good or bad fortune; albeit it cannot but be for my good, because no evil can proceed from thy sight: see here thy brother Periander." This last word was softly uttered, lest any might hear. Then he continued, saying, "Live, my sister, and rejoice, for in this isle death is not appointed for women. Be not more cruel to thyself than the islanders; put thy trust in heaven which, having delivered thee until this present from so many perils which thou shouldest have undergone, will defend thee also from those which may be feared hereafter." "O brother, brother," answered Auristela, "alas, I dread much that this distress wherein we find ourselves, shall not be the last which we ought to fear. Happy hath been my fortune to find you, but unhappy to find you in such a place, and in such a manner." In speaking these words they both wept, which the barbarous Bradamire perceived and, believing that Periander shed tears of grief because such a one should die whom he had loved or known, resolved, whatsoever it should cost him, to deliver her. So coming to them twain, with one hand he held Auristela, and the other Periander; and with a threatening and proud countenance, he spake aloud in this manner. "Let none be so hardy to touch so much as one hair of these two, if he make never so little account of his life. This maid is for myself, because I love her: and this man ought to be free, because she will have it so." Scarcely had he ended these words when the Governor, moved by disdain and wrathful impatience, put a great shaft in his bow and, going back so far as he might hold out his left arm, he drew the string with the other to his right ear, and then let fly with so direct a violence that the arrow hit Bradamire in the mouth, taking from him the motion of his tongue, together with his life, which filled all them that stood by with astonishment and marvel. Nevertheless, this bold and certain stroke fell not out so well for the Governor's profit, but that he did as readily receive payment for his hardiness: for a son of the same Corcicurbo, who was drowned when he would have transported Periander, trusting more in the agility of his feet than his assured shooting, at two leaps was upon the Governor and, lifting up his arm, sheathed a poniard in his breast which, being of stone, was yet more strong and cutting than if it had been forged of steel. The unhappy Governor closing his eyes with an endless night, by his own death revenged the death of Bradamire; and in a moment, fury troubling the minds of their kinsfolk, and urging them to vengeance, put weapons into their hands, whereupon the arrows began to fly on either part, which in the end were all spent, but not their hands and poniards, wherewith they stoutly rushed one against another in such sort that the son had no respect of his father, nor the brother his brother, but as though they had ever been mortal enemies for wrongs that were past amends they rent with their nails and killed each other with stabs of poniards, there being none who could endeavour to set them at peace. Amongst the arrows, wounds, and dead men, the old Clelia, the damsel interpreter, Periander and Auristela were close together in very much fear and confusion. But in the heat of this fury, certain barbarians who should have been partakers with Bradamire departed from the fight, going to set on fire a forest belonging to the Governor. The trees began to burn, the wind favoured their anger, and it seemed that all of them could not choose but be either blinded with smoke or burnt with flame. The obscurity of the night, the sighs of such as lay a-dying, the clamours of them that threatened, nor the noise of the fire, could not any whit terrify the hearts of these barbarians, because they were wholly set upon wrath and vengeance. Only the minds of these unhappy persons were feared who, thronging close one to another, knew not what to do, nor what might become of them. Yet heaven forgot not to succour them in so troublesome a time, and that by such a new and strange means that, for just cause, they esteemed it as a miracle. The night was close, obscure and dreadful, none other light being to be discerned but only that of the burning forest, when a young barbarian came to Periander and spake to him in the Castilian tongue, which he well understood. "Follow me, fair maid, you and your company: for by God's assistance, I will put you in a place of surety." Periander hereto replied not a word, but took order that Auristela, Clelia, the interpreter, himself, marched forward. And so passing over the weapons and the dead bodies, they followed the young barbarian conducting them, having the flames of the burning forest at their backs, which was instead of a wind to drive them from thence with greater speed. But neither the old age of Clelia nor the tender years of Auristela would permit them to keep pace with their guide; which, when the strong barbarian perceived, he took up Clelia on his shoulders. Periander did the like with Auristela. The interpreter, least delicate and of better heart, followed with a manly courage. In this manner, after many falls they came to the sea and, having gone about a mile on the North side, the barbarian entered into a large cave, where went out and in the waters of the sea ebbing and flowing; where turning sometimes on one side, sometimes on the other, now creeping on the earth, then standing on their feet, they seemed at length to come out into a smooth field, in which their guide told them they might march without danger of stumbling, for the darkness of the night hindered them to see their way and the light of the wood on fire, which burned more forcibly than before, could not extend thither. "God be praised," said the barbarian in the Spanish tongue, "who hath brought us into this place, where, though some peril may be feared, at the least it shall not be death." In speaking these words, they saw a light like a comet, which came towards them, much like the moving of an exhalation, which had put them in fear if the barbarian had not said unto them: "This is my father who comes to receive me." Periander, although he could not well speak Spanish, said unto him, "The heavens reward thee, thou angel in man's likeness, for the good thou hast done us: for although it be nothing but to delay our death, we hold it as a singular benefit." In the mean time the light approached, which a barbarian man in appearance did carry, seeming to be somewhat above the age of fifty years. Coming to them, he pitched his light on the ground, which was a great staff of burning pine. He ran to embrace his son, asking him in the same Castilian tongue what chance had befallen him, that he came with such company? "Father," answered the young man, "let us go to our quarter, for I have many things to say, and more to think upon. The isle is on fire, almost all the inhabitants are burnt to ashes; that little remainder which you see, by heaven's inspiration I have caught from the flames, the sharp poniards and piercing arrows of the barbarians. Let us go, sir, as I have said, into our quarter, to the end the charity of my mother and sister may be employed in welcoming these poor weary guests." The father was their conductor, they all followed, Clelia took courage and walked afoot. Periander would not leave the fair burden which he bore, for he could not be troubled possibly by this only good which he had in the world. Short time after, they came to an high rock, at the foot whereof they discovered a large cave, whereunto the same rock served for walls and roof, out of which came two women with lighted torches in their hands, attired after the barbarian fashion. One was young, aged about 15 years, and the other thirty. This last was of comely proportion, but the former exceeding fair. One of them said, "O Father, O Brother!" the other, nothing but, "Son, thou art welcome." The interpreter marvelled much to hear them speak in another language than was used in that isle unto the women who seemed to be barbarians. And being about to demand the cause, the father willed them to dress the cave round about with skins, which hindered the mother and daughter to resolve her doubt. Then, leaning their torches against the walls, they brought the skins of goats, sheep and other beasts out of another cave, wherewith instantly they covered the ground and abated the cold which began to molest them. CHAPTER V. Wherein the Spanish barbarian declareth the story of himself to his new guests. The supper was quick and short; yet the unwonted rest, and the pleasure to take repast without disquiet, seemed delicate unto them. They lighted new staves, and although their chamber were a little smoky, yet at least it was warm. The vessel wherein they were served was neither silver nor pewter, but the hands of the barbarians were the platters; and the barks of trees, a little handsomer than cork, served for cups. Candy and his wines were far from thence, in stead whereof they drank the clear and fresh water as in winter. Clelia fell asleep, whose weariness and old age were more friends to sleep than company. The hostess brought her into another chamber, and made her a bed of skins, and as many mattresses as might cover her, and so returned and sat down with the rest; unto whom the Spaniard began to speak in this manner: "Although it were agreeable to reason I should first know the success of your affairs before I make relation of mine, yet that shall not hinder me to make declaration, thereby to oblige you not to be silent as concerning yours. I was born in Spain, as my destinies would have it; my parents were meanly noble, and brought me up as those that were wealthy. I arrived at the gates of grammar, whereby an entrance is made into other sciences. My star gave me a strong inclination to learning, but more violent unto arms: following the course whereof, I left my country, and was at the War with Charles the Fifth made against certain Princes of Aleman. I was favoured of Mars, honoured of the Emperor and, besides many friends, got the reputation of a brave soldier. Above all things I learned to be liberal and of good behaviour; for these two virtues more than the rest might be learned in this Prince's school. I returned into my country, well furnished with riches and honour, with an intent there to remain certain days to see my parents yet living, and my friends which there expected my coming. But she that is called Fortune, envying my tranquillity, by turning her wheel threw me down from the height wherein I thought to be, unto the centre of that misery wherein I am, choosing for the instrument of her despite the second son of a Marquis whose house was next neighbour unto mine. "This man then came one day unto the parish in the country where I dwelt, to see a race which should there be run by divers knights, whereof I was one; and turning towards me, with a gesture full of scoffing and arrogance, he said thus. 'I see well, brave Lord Anthony, thou hast handled thy matters gallantly in Flanders and Italy.' I answered him (being that Anthony of whom I speak unto you), 'I kiss your lordship's hands a thousand times for the honour you do me; which is as you ought in honouring your countrymen and servants. But I would willingly give you to understand that I carried this bravery out of my country into Flanders, and that good education hath always followed my birth. And herewithal, such as I am, your lordship may command, beseeching you to love me, as the desire which I have to do you service shall merit.' A gentleman, my friend, standing next me, spake in mine ear, but not so softly but the other might hear him: 'Take heed how you speak, Sir Anthony, for we do not here call this Knight "lord"'. To whom the other answered, before I had taken the word: "'The Lord Anthony speaks well, for he useth me according to the fashion of Italy, where they say "lordship" instead of "worship"'. 'I know well,' said I, 'the customs and ceremonies which these two nations observe, and I have not given you the title of lordship after the Italian manner, but because I believe that he which presumeth to tutor me in Spain ought to be a great lord. Yet I also believe that, being of noble parentage, and such as I am, I deserve that any great lord, whatsoever he be, should call me worshipful. And who dares say the contrary?' And with these words, I set hand to my sword, and gave him two great cuts on the head, which so troubled him that he knew not how this chance had befallen him, neither did anything which could repair the injury. But after this amazement was past, he drew his sword, endeavouring to revenge himself with much courage and hardiness. But the blood running down his eyes, and myself abiding him with my drawn sword in my hand, would not permit him to effect his honourable resolution. The standers-by were all stirred against me: I withdrew myself to my parents, declaring to them the accident befallen me. They, having notice of my danger, provided me means, and counselled me to look to my safety, for that I had procured unto myself many great and powerful enemies. I did so,and two days after travelled to the borders of Aragon, where I began to have some time of breathing after so urgent haste of my journey. "Finally, with more leisure, I went into Aleman and entered again into the Emperor's service. There I was warned that mine enemy, with divers other in his company, sought for me with an intent to kill me. I apprehended the danger, as reason was I should, and returned into Spain, because there is no better sanctuary than hard by the house of a man's enemy. I visited my parents in the night, who gave me more money and jewels wherewith I conveyed myself to Lisbon. There I went aboard a ship which had set sail for England, wherein were English knights who for curiosity's sake had come to see Spain, and having so done, were now returning into their country. There it chanced that I fell a scuffling upon a matter of small importance with an English mariner, who provoked me to give him a cuff. "This blow moved all the mariners to choler against me. All the sailors were upon my jack, and threw at me whatsoever came next to hand. I withdrew me to the castle a[bove], where I found an English knight whom I made my buckler, and stood at his back; which thing only saved my life. The other knights appeased the tumult, yet with this condition: either that I should be thrown into the sea, or that they would give me their ship-boat to return into Spain or whither it should please God. This was effected: they gave me the skiff, furnished with two barrels of water, one of butter and some quantity of biscuit. I gave thanks to my defenders for the favour which they had afforded me, entering into the boat only with two oars. The ship went far off, the night came; I found myself alone in the midst of this bottomless gulf of waters, taking none other course than the winds and waves would permit me. I lifted up mine eyes to heaven with good heart, committing myself to God with the greatest devotion possible. I looked on the north, whereby I discerned which way I went, yet could I not know where I was nor what course I kept. "In this manner I drove six days and six nights, reposing more confidence in the goodness of heaven than in the strength of mine arms which, being now tired and without vigour by means of the incessant labour, I laid by the oars in the boat, to serve my turn when the sea and my forces would permit. I stretched myself all my length upon my back, shut mine eyes against the peril, and there was not a saint in heaven whose help I did not implore from the bottom of my heart. In the height of this extreme distress an heavy sleep locked up my senses, which is scarce to be believed. But in this sleep my fantasy presented unto me a thousand kinds of terrible deaths, and all in the water. In some, me thought I was eaten with wolves and torn in pieces with other wild beasts, so that whether sleeping or waking, my life was nothing else but a lingering death. "From this unquiet sleep, upon a sudden, a furious wave awaked me, which broke over the boat and filled it with water. I knew well the danger, and cast the sea into the sea the best I could, returning to use help of mine oars when else nothing availed me. I saw the sea more and more enraged, because it was tossed and beaten with a south-west wind which bloweth with greater violence thereabouts than in other seas. I saw it was folly to oppose my weak boat against the fury thereof, and my feeble and decayed forces to withstand such violence. Wherefore, again I forsook mine oars, and let the skiff run whither the winds and waves would carry it. I renewed my prayers, adjoined promises, and increased the waters of the sea by those I shed from mine eyes, not for fear of death which showed itself so nigh, but of the punishment which my sins deserved. "Finally, I know not how many days and nights I passed floating on the sea, which always grew more unquiet and troubled, until at last I came to a desert isle, void of people but full of wolves, which walked together in troops. I put myself in covert under a great rock, not daring to leap on land for fear of the beasts which I saw. I did eat biscuit soaked in water, for necessity and hunger have not respect of anything. Night came, but not so dark as before: it seemed the seas were appeased, and promised more safety the day following. I looked on the heaven and saw the stars, whose aspect declared repose of the air and smoothness of the water. Then me thought, by the uncertain brightness of the night, that the rock which served me instead of a haven was all covered with wolves, as indeed the truth was, and that one of them spake unto me with an human and intelligible voice: yea more, in mine own language. 'Spaniard, forsake this shore, and seek thy fortune elsewhere, if thou wilt not be rent and torn in pieces with our teeth: and do not ask who it is that gives thee warning, but thank God who hath made thee find pity amongst savage beasts.' I leave you to imagine whether I were astonished or not: yet this amazement hindered me not to execute the counsel given me. I took the oars, enforced mine arms, and went again into the main sea. But because misfortune and afflictions trouble the memory of those that suffer them, I know not how many days I drove upon these seas, drawing after me a thousand deaths, till at length, my bark driven with an horrible tempest, I lighted on this isle, at that place where the cave's mouth is whereby you entered. The boat passed into the cave but the ebb made it as soon come out again; which when I saw, I leaped into the water, and taking hold of the sand with my nails, I impeached the best I could that the ebb might not carry me back again into the open sea with my boat. And although in losing it I lost all hope of life, yet I rejoiced to change my kind of death and abide on the land." Hitherto the Spanish barbarian had contrived his discourse (for his attire so entitled him), when they heard sobbings and sighs in the chamber where they had left Clelia. Instantly Auristela, Periander and all the other hastened to see what the matter was, and found that this was she herself, who sat upon the skins wherewith her bed was made, leaning her back against the rock, her eyes lifted towards heaven, which were almost out of her head. Auristela came to her, and with a complaining and sorrowful voice spake in this manner. "What mean you, nurse? Is it possible that you will leave me in this discomfort, and at such a time when I have most need of your counsel?" At this word, Clelia lifted up herself a little, and taking Auristela by the hand, said thus unto her. "You see, daughter, how your case standeth. I would willingly have desired the prolonging of my life till yours had obtained such rest as your worth deserveth; but heaven will not permit it, and for mine own part, I conform my will thereunto, offering unto you the best heart I have. That which I request you, my dear mistress, is that when it shall please God you recover your estate, you certify my parents, if they be yet living, that I die in the faith of Jesus Christ, and of his Church, which is none other but Roman." Having so said, she died in pronouncing the name of Jesus. At the sight hereof Auristela fell in a swoon. Periander and all the rest wept, yet ran to succour Auristela who, coming out of her trance, augmented her tears, renewed her sighs, and spake such pitiful words that it would have moved the very stones, if they could have understood what she said. Finally, they took order for her burial the next morning. The Spaniard's daughter, with her brother, watched the corpse; the residue went to repose themselves during the little part of the night remaining. CHAPTER VI Wherein the Spanish barbarian pursueth his history. It seemed this day the sun showed himself to the world later than of custom, because the remainders of so great a fire yet smoking hindered his beams to enlighten the earth. The barbarian commanded his son to go out of his cave and learn all that which had passed in the isle. The others ended their sleep with no less trouble than when they lay down; for the grief of Clelia's death would not suffer Auristela to rest, and Auristela's waking held Periander in continual disquiet. He went out with her into the plain to behold the situation of this place, and saw that it was made by nature as if it had been composed by art and industry. It was of a round form, environed with very high rocks of grey colour, containing somewhat more than a league in compass and replenished with wild trees bearing fruit, if not excellent, yet at the least tolerable and nourishing. The grass was long, because the great waters issuing out of these rocks kept it always green, all which things caused admiration in Auristela and Periander; when the Spaniard called them to bury Clelia. All of them went thither and buried the dead body in a hollow rock, covering the same with earth and other small rubbish: and to testify that a Christian was there laid, Auristela prayed that a cross might be there erected. The barbarian said he had one which he would place there. All of them gave her the last farewell, Auristela renewed her plaints, whose tears drew others from the eyes of Periander; and till the young barbarian should return, they all withdrew themselves into the rock where they had slept, to defend themselves from the extremity of the cold which began to threaten them; where sitting down on soft skins, the Spaniard craved silence, pursuing his story after this manner. "When I had left the boat which brought me into the sand, and that the waves of the sea had carried the same away, with good reason I affirm that therewithal was fled all hope of my liberty, which is not in my power to recover until this present. I entered thereinto, perceiving the site of this place, which me thought nature had formed as a theatre to represent thereon the tragedy of my misfortunes. I much marvelled I could see no people there, but only wild goats and other small beasts of divers kinds. I searched everywhere, and found this hollow cave, appointing the same for mine abode. Finally, after I had gone round about, I returned to the entrance whereby I came, to see if I could hear any man's voice or could descry anyone who might tell me where I was. And my good hap and the pitiful heavens, not having altogether forgotten me, brought before me a young barbarian maid, about fifteen years of age, who sought small cockles along the shore amongst the rocks and craggy places of the sea. She was amazed at the sight of me: her feet stuck fast in the sand, and the cockles which she had gotten fell down, scattered here and there. I took her into mine arms without speaking to her a word, or she to me, entered into the cave, and brought her to the place where now we are. Having set her on the ground, I kissed her face and her hands, making all the signs and demonstration I could to qualify her fear and to make her to understand I loved her. She, after this first astonishment was past, looked earnestly upon me, touched my body with her hands, and having put away her former fear, she began to laugh divers times in embracing me. Then taking out of her bosom a kind of bread which was used in that country, yet not made of wheat, she put it to my mouth, speaking to me in her language and, as I afterward learned, entreated me to eat: which I did, as having great need thereof. Then she took me by the hand and brought me to the river, there where by signs she prayed me to drink. I could not sufficiently satisfy myself in beholding her, thinking I saw rather an angel from heaven than a mortal creature and barbarous. I brought her back to the entry of the cave, and with signs and words which she understood not, I besought her to visit me again as though she had known my meaning, and again took her in mine arms. She, in pitiful and plain meaning, kissed my forehead and certified me by clear and evident demonstrations that she would come again to see me. This done, I returned into this place, tasted the fruit wherewith certain trees were laden, and gave thanks to God that I found them, encouraging my decayed hopes with this remedy. I passed that night in the same place, waiting for the day, and therewith the return of my fair barbarian, whom by this time I began to mistrust, fearing she would bewray me and deliver me to the barbarians whereof I imagined the isle was full. Yet I was discharged of this fear, seeing her to return in the morning fair as the sun, not accompanied with barbarians to take me, but with victuals to sustain me." Hitherto the Spaniard had proceeded in his history when his son returned from the isle, whose estate he went to know, and who brought news that it was almost all on fire; and all, or the greatest part of the barbarians dead: some by weapon, some by fire; and if any were yet living, they were those who had saved themselves in the sea upon rafts in the water, to eschew the flames; that now they might well get from thence and escape that cursed land, the rather because there were hard by certain isles whose inhabitants were less barbarous, and it might be, in changing their place, they should change their fortune. "Well, take your rest," saith the father, "I will declare to this company the residue of my affairs, and I have not much to say ere I have done, although my misfortunes are infinite." "Trouble not you yourself," saith the woman, "to recite them so largely: leave me to speak the rest." "I am contented," saith the Spaniard, "and I shall take much pleasure to hear you relate them." "So it followed," said the woman, "that, by my often repair to this place, my husband begat this boy and girl of me. I call him husband, for that before he knew my body he gave me his word so to be, after such manner as he saith is used amongst true Christians. He taught me his language, and I mine unto him. He learned me his Catholic religion, and baptised me in this river, though not with such ceremonies as he saith are observed in the Church, instructing me in his faith, as he knew well how to do, which I have fixed in my soul and graven in my heart. I, ignorant and worthy of compassion, gave him a rude mind which, praised be God, he hath returned back discreet and Christian. I gave him my person, thinking I have not offended herein, and from hence have ensued these two children, which at this present augment the number of those that glorify the true God. At divers times I brought him a certain quantity of gold, which is plentiful in this isle, and some pearls, which I keep, waiting for the happy day which may deliver us from this prison and bring us into a place where, with all liberty and assurance, we may be of the flock of Christ, whom I adore in this cross that here you see." Thus ended the barbarian Ricla (which name the Spaniard had given her in baptism) the variable history of her husband and herself, causing all the company to marvel, especially Auristela, who from thenceforth most affectionately loved this woman, and much more her daughter. The young barbarian, called Anthony as his father, then said that it were an ill course taken to remain there any longer time idle without taking order how to escape out of this pound, for if the fire of the isle, which every day augmented, once passed the high mountains, or if by enforcement of the wind it came unto them, they should be all burnt. "I am of opinion," said Ricla, "that we were best to stay here yet these two days, for that we may discern an isle, in a bright sunshine and calm sea, from whence the inhabitants are wont to pass hither to sell or exchange their commodities for ours. And seeing here is none to hear or hinder me, I will condition with them to sell me a boat at their own price, telling them that I have need thereof to save me from the fury of these flames, together with my husband and children who are shut up in a cave. Now these boats are made of rafts covered with leather, and strong enough to keep out the water from coming in at the sides; but as far as I can perceive, they never put forth but in smooth sea, neither carry they any such sails as I have seen others to have that were accustomed to anchor on our shores, to sell maids or boys. This maketh me to believe that they are not good in the main sea, where they say that storms and tempests are very common." Periander thereunto replied: "Hath not Sir Anthony assayed this remedy during so many years that he hath here remained?" "No," said Ricla, "for that whatsoever vigilant care I used in this behalf, I could never find means to agree for the price of one boat, neither could I know what colour I should pretend to cheapen any." "This is true," said Anthony; "besides, I could hardly assure my safety in so weak vessels. But now that the heavens have given me this counsel, I purpose to make use thereof." All the rest were of the same opinion and, issuing out from that place, they were amazed to see the havoc which the fire and sword had made within the isle. They saw a thousand different sorts of deaths, and how of the barbarians yet living, some were upon rafts, beholding afar off the miserable burning of their country; others were gotten into the isle which served as a prison to the poor captives. Auristela would have gone thither to see if any were yet remaining in the dungeon, but that was needless, because immediately they saw a raft come, and about twenty persons thereon, whom by their apparel they knew to be of the number of those unhappy people. These then came to the seashore, kissing the ground, and in a manner worshipped the fire; for they had understood by a barbarian who drew them out of the dark hole that the isle was all burning, and no cause was left why they should fear. They were friendly received and comforted by Auristela with the rest. Some of them recounted their miseries: others concealed their mishaps, as not finding words enough to express them. Ricla marvelled that any barbarian was found to have so much compassion as to set them at liberty, and that a part of those who were gotten on the rafts did not pass into the isle of the prison. Whereto one of the prisoners answered that the barbarian who had enlarged them had told them, in the Italian tongue, all the success of the fired isle, counselling them to go thither and reward themselves for their troubles past with such gold and pearls as they should there find; and that he would come upon another raft to be of their fellowship and take order for their liberty. The accidents which they related were so different, so strange and unlucky, that some wept, others laughed with open mouth. In the mean time, they saw coming towards the isle six of those boats whereof Ricla had spoken, which arrived on the shore without unlading any merchandise, in regard they saw no barbarian who might buy the same. Ricla cheapened all the boats with their wares, yet without intent to carry away all. Howbeit, they would sell but four, that the others might serve them to return back again. The price once concluded upon, Ricla hastened to the cave and paid them their demands in pieces of uncoined gold. They gave two barks to those who came last out of prison and took sea in two others, in the one whereof they put so much provision of victuals as they could get, with four persons of them who had newly been set at liberty; and into the other entered Auristela, Periander, the two Anthonys father and son, Ricla, her daughter Constance and the wise Transilla. Before their departure, Auristela would take leave of the ashes of her dear Clelia. All accompanied her; she wept on the grave which, having moistened with tears, they went back to the shore. There, first kneeling on the earth and entreating heaven with humble and devout prayers to send them a good voyage, and direct them what course they ought to take, they went aboard their boats. That of Periander was Admiral; the others followed after; and as they were beginning to row (for they had no sails) there came to the seaside a barbarian who called to them in the Tuscan language, "If haply you that are in these boats be Christians, receive him here aboard who also is one, and which entreateth you in the name of the true God." Then one of the other boats told them of the foremost that this was the Barbarian who had drawn them out of the dungeon; which Periander hearing, commanded a boat to return towards the shore and take in victuals; which done, with shouts and cheerful cries, they joyfully began their navigation. CHAPTER VII. Periander and his company escaped from the burning of the island. These four boats had not rowed above four miles before they descried a tall ship, with all sails bearing and the wind in the poop, which seemed to come to board them. "Without doubt," said Periander (after he had well regarded her), "this ship must of necessity pertain to Arnaldo, which now comes back to know how mine adventure hath succeeded." Periander had already informed Auristela all that past betwixt Arnaldo and him, and Auristela acquainted Periander whatsoever chance had befallen her during a year which she had passed in Arnaldo's company, which caused much disquiet unto them both because of this meeting: either of them desiring nothing less than to return into his power. For albeit the dissembled fraternity of Periander with Auristela ought to free Arnaldo from all suspicion, yet so it is that their fear to be discovered and known to be otherwise than brother and sister much disturbed Auristela's mind. Besides, who could impeach Periander from being jealous, beholding before his eyes, and being in the hands of so mighty a rival as this Prince? For there is no discretion of any worth, or any fidelity, able to warrant an amorous heart from the suspicions of jealousy. But the wind which blew at the poop, turning contrary, they saw them immediately strike sail and hoist them again in a moment to the ship's top. The ship, driven with the wind, began to run back the way it came and went far from the boats with incredible swiftness. Auristela and Periander recovered their spirits and began to take breath. But the rest which were with them in the boats would willingly have forsaken them, to enter into that vessel whose tallness promised them better assurance of their lives; and fain they would have followed it, but they lost the sight there of it in less than two hours, and their only help left was to make towards an isle whose high mountains, covered with snow, made it seem hard by, albeit the same was above six leagues off. The night in the shutting of the evening was dark; they had a fore wind, thereby easing their arms, when betaking themselves to their oars, they endeavoured to recover the isle. It was about midnight, as far as the barbarian Anthony could judge by the north guards, when they came to land and, both because the waters did beat easily on the shore, and that the ebb was little, they came on ground with their boats and drew them out of the water by strength of hand. The night was so cold that they were compelled to seek remedies against the ice, yet could they find none. Periander appointed all the women to enter into the chief boat and sit as close one to another as they could, that being clustered in an heap, their cold might be the less, and one of them heat another. The men made a corps of guard and, placing sentinels, expected the day to discover where they were; for as yet they knew not whether the isle were inhabited or desert. And like as it is a thing natural, that cares keep any one waking, there was not one that could sleep in all the company. This the Spanish barbarian perceiving, he spake to the Italian savage, that to beguile the time, and remove the displeasure of a bad night, it might please him to relate unto them the adventures of his life, which could be none other but strange and rare, having brought him to such a state and place. "I will do it with all my heart," answered the Italian, "albeit I fear that my misfortunes having been so many, so extraordinary and unheard of, my report will not find any belief amongst you." To this replied Periander, "By those that have chanced unto us, we are taught and made apt to believe whatsoever anyone can tell us, though it incline rather to impossibility than any likelihood of truth." "Let us go then," answered the barbarian, "to the boat's side where these gentlewomen are. It may be some of them will fall asleep in hearing my tale, and peradventure some will shake off drowsiness and make declaration of pity; for it is some ease to him that relates his mishaps to see or hear anyone which hath a feeling thereof with compassion." So they stood round about the boat, and all of them gave attentive ear to him that seemed a barbarian, who began his history in this sort. CHAPTER VIII. Wherein Rutilio giveth an account of his life. "My name is Rutilio, my country Siena, one of the most famous cities of Italy. I am by calling a professor on the viol, the only, and unmatchable in dancing, and such a one as might have been happy if I would. There was a rich knight at Siena on whom the heavens had bestowed a daughter, more fair than wise. This damsel, her father was in hand to marry unto a knight of Florence; and the better to supply with art where the gifts of nature failed, he would have me teach her to dance; for an active and gentle behaviour is better discerned in dancing than any way else. I began to teach her how to move her body, but made her forget the measures of the mind, which she easily yielded unto me; and fortune, which threw down the stream of my mishaps, induced me to take her from her father's house and carry her to Rome. But as it usually happens that love giveth us deceitful pleasures and vices bear their chastisement on their shoulders, we were both taken on the way by the diligence which her father made to follow us. Her confession and mine being that I carried away my wife, and that she went with her husband, availed nothing with the judges, but they condemned me to death. A woman came to visit me in the hole who, they said, was taken for witchcraft, and the Gaoler's wife had taken her from the prison to heal a daughter of hers, by herbs and words, of such a disease whereof the physicians were altogether ignorant. "To be short: this witch promised to save my life if I would espouse her and I, seeing myself bound hand and foot the evening before I should be brought to execution and, as it were, the halter about my neck without means or hope of remedy, I promised the marriage which she required, upon condition she would free me from this distress. She told me that I should be without care, and that the night following, she would break the stocks and chains and, in despite of any impeachment, would set me at liberty in such a place where mine enemies, were they never so great or mighty, should do me no harm. I esteemed her, not as a sorceress, but an angel sent from heaven to deliver me. The night came, and she also in the darkness thereof approached to me, offering unto me a wand's end, willing me to take hold thereof and follow her. I was something troubled at the first meeting but, the matter concerning my life, I stood on my feet, finding myself without fetters, all the prison doors open, and as well the prisoners as the keepers buried in a dead sleep. Coming into the street, my guide spread a mantle on the ground, placed me thereon, willing me to be of good courage and give over my devotion for a time. I knew then that this was an evil sign and that she would carry me in the air. And though like a Christian I mocked at these sorceries, yet the apparent hazard of death made me nevertheless to obey her. I stood in the midst of the mantle; and she beginning to whisper words which I understood not, the mantle began to rise in the air, and I to tremble with so great fear that there was not a saint in all the litany whom I did not implore for help. She knew my fear and, perceiving my prayers, commanded me to let them alone. 'Unhappy man,' said I to myself, 'what good can I hope for, if I be forbidden to ask of God from whom all good things proceed!' I shut mine eyes and suffered myself to be transported by the devils, because witches have none other carriers. And having so flown about four hours by mine account, upon the break of the day I found myself in an unknown country. The mantle fell to the ground, and my guide said thus unto me: 'Thou art now in a place, friend Rutilio, where no mortal creature can hurt thee.' With which words she embraced me after a lascivious manner. I thrust her back with mine arms: and by the brightness of the morning which then began to show light, I perceived that she who embraced me was in the shape of a wolf. "This vision troubled my wits and turned my heart topsy turvy. But as it falleth out in great perils oftentimes that small hope to prevail draws courage from such whose forces are desperate; the little which I had, made me to lay hold on a knife which by chance I had about me and, with enraged fear, I furiously thrust it into her body whom I believed to have been a wolf: who, falling to the earth, lost this horrible figure, instead whereof I found dead and bleeding this unhappy sorceress. "Consider a little, I pray you, in what case I was then: in a strange land, and without any person to conduct me. Long time I waited for the day, but it came not, neither did any token of sun-rising appear in the horizon. I went away from the corpse which had so feared and terrified me, oftentimes lifting my eyes to heaven; and considering the motion of the stars, it seemed unto me, respecting the course they had made, it should have been day a good while since. Being in this confusion, I heard certain people who came talking to the place where I was. I went against them, beseeching them in the Tuscan language to tell me the name of this country. 'This land is Norway,' said one in the same tongue. 'But who art thou which in these quarters, and in a speech which so few do understand, makest this demand?' In few words I gave him an account of my voyage, and withal the death of the sorceress. He which spake to me showed a compassionate feeling of my mishaps, and said thus: "'Thou mayest thank God, good man, for having delivered thee from the hands of these sorcerers, whereof there are very many in these northern countries. Men say they transform themselves into wolves, as well men as women, for there are such of both sexes. How they do this I know not: but being a Christian and a Catholic, I believe not any such thing, and yet experience hath made me see so much. That which I can herein conceive, is, that these transformations are nothing else but the devil's illusions permitted by God for man's correction.' I asked him what time of the day it might be: he told me that in these countries, far towards the north, the year was distinguished into four seasons, and that there were three months continually night wherein the sun could not be seen above the earth in any sort; three months twilight of the day, not being absolutely day or night; three months of bright day, wherein the sun never went down; and other three months of the night's twilight: that the season wherein they now were, was twilight of the day, and that it were a vain hope to expect as yet the sun's brightness or think upon return into my country till the season of the day, wherein ships went from those coasts to carry merchandise into England, France and Spain. He demanded of me if I knew any trade whereby to get my living till the time of the year came wherein I might return. I told him I was a master to teach dancing, a great caperer, and a good player on the viol. Hereat he began to laugh, and said that these exercises were never used in that country. "In conclusion, he asked me if I had any skill in goldsmith's craft and I answered, I could learn whatsoever he would teach me. 'Come with me then,' said he: 'yet first of all, our best course is to commit to the earth this wretched woman.' Having then buried her, he brought me into a town where all those that walked in the streets carried light staves of pine tree in their hands and so traded in their affairs. As we walked together, I enquired of him when and how he came into that country, and if he were indeed an Italian. His answer hereunto was that, one of his grandfathers coming as a merchant from Italy to Norway, was there married; and having taught his children his language, it extended itself to all their lineage, unto him who was one of the old man's nephews; who, overswayed by the love of his wife and children, was made a free denizen of this country, not having any mind of Italy or any friends or kindred which he had there. "If I should now discourse of the house I entered into, the wife, children, servants and riches which I there found, the welcome and good entertainment they made me, I should never make an end. So it fell out, that in a small time I learned his occupation, and made myself able to get my living. In the mean season the great day came, and my master would carry part of his merchandise to certain isles hard by, and to others a great way off. I also bore him company, partly for curiosity's sake, and partly to sell certain commodities which I had, for I had already gotten me a stock; in which voyage I saw things worthy of admiration and astonishment, others to give contentment of laughter, observing the customs and ceremonies not viewed or practised by other nations. In the end, two months after, we underwent a storm of forty days' continuance, and at last fell amongst the rocks on the isle from whence we came, where our ship broke in pieces and, of those that were therein, I only was left alive. CHAPTER IX Wherein Rutilio prosecuteth his story. "The first thing which I saw was a barbarian hanged on a tree, whereby I knew that I was in the land of the savages; whereupon fear instantly presented before mine eyes a thousand kinds of death. And not knowing what to do, I feared and expected them all at once. In the end, necessity being, as men say, the mother of arts, an extraordinary conceit came into my mind which caused me to take down the barbarian from the tree and, having put off my clothes and buried them in the sand, I put on his attire, which could not choose but fit me well, being none other but skins unsewn and never cut out by measure, but bound only on the body as you have seen. The better to dissemble their language and not be known for a stranger, I fained myself dumb and deaf and, with this industry, I passed further into the isle, skipping and capering in the air. I had not gone far before I descried a troop of barbarians, who came round about me, demanding in their tongue (as I knew afterward) who I was, how I was called, whither I went, and from whence I came. My answer to them was silence: and making all the signs and demonstrations I could of one that was dumb, I withdrew myself from them, iterating my leaps and capers. The children followed me and forsook me not whithersoever I went, and with this policy I passed for a barbarian and dumb; and the children, to see me leap, fed me with such victuals as they had. "In this manner I continued three years amongst them, and might there have spent my whole life without being known. I observed their language with such diligence and curiosity that I learned a great part thereof and knew the prophecy which an old barbarian, on whom they marvellously depended, had made as touching their kingdom. For accomplishment whereof, I have seen many men sacrificed, and divers maids bought for this effect, until the burning happened which you know. I saved myself from the fire, I gave advertisement to the prisoners in the dungeon, where I believe you have been. Afterwards espying these boats, I ran down to the seaside, my prayers found place in your generous minds, you received me aboard: for which I give you infinite thanks, hoping through heaven's favour, which hath drawn us out of so great misery, that there is kept in store for us an happy end of our voyage." Thus Rutilio finished his relation, which made all such as heard him to marvel with contentment. The day came, which was cloudy, boisterous, and with great likelihood of snow. Auristela then gave to Periander that which she had received of Clelia, namely, two boxes of wax, in one whereof was a rich cross of diamonds, and in the other two round pearls of inestimable value. By these jewels it was known that they were persons of quality, although it better appeared in the gentleness of their spirits and in the sweetness of their behaviour, than which nothing could be more pleasing. The barbarian Anthony, seeing that it was day, entered a little further into the isle; but having descried nothing but mountains covered with snow, he returned back to the boats, and brought them news that this country was desert; for which cause they must speedily depart, and go and seek elsewhere to defend themselves from the cold and prevent other necessities which at that present threatened them. This was the cause that they put to sea with as much haste as possibly they could, shaping their course to another isle which they kenned not far from thence. As they rowed, each boat having only two oars apiece, they heard a voice issuing from one of the two other barks, the sweetness whereof induced them to hearken diligently. They observed, but especially the barbarian Anthony, that the words which were sung were in the language of Portugal, which he well understood. But as they were more attentive to give ear, the voice was silent, and then began again to sing in Spanish, according to none other instrument but that of the oars, which easily drove forth the boats in the calm sea. "This fellow," said Ricla, "must needs be void of business, that singeth out in such a season." But Periander and Auristela were of another opinion, for contrary-wise they judged him more amorous than idle: for loves conjoin easily in friendship with such as know or feel their own evils. They took such a course that he which sung came into their boat, as well to delight themselves with his voice hard by, as to know what adventure had befallen him; because they thought that he who could sing in such a time either must suffer much distress of mind, or none at all. The boats came close together; the musician entered into that wherein was Periander; and being courteously received of all those that were there, he spake unto them half in Spanish, and the other half in the Portugal tongue. "I first give thanks to God, then to you gentlemen, and lastly to my voice, for this exchange; yet I think very shortly to ease you of the burden of my body, for the torments of my soul make me to judge sufficiently of the shortness of my life." "You shall have better success than you imagine," said Periander, "and believe not that any griefs in the world can kill anyone, seeing mine have yet left me alive." "Hope," said Auristela, "overswayed by misfortunes, is no more hope: which, as the light best shineth in darkness, ought to be strongest in the midst of afflictions. It is an act of a base mind, and there is no greater cowardice, than to yield to despair, to free himself from troubles." "All this is true," answered the musician, "and I believe it in despite and scorn of all the experiments which I have made during my whole life." This discourse nothing hindered their rowing so that, before night, they came to another isle which also was void of inhabitants, but not of trees, whereof many were laden with fruit which might serve for food, though they were dry and out of season. All of them skipped to land, whither they drew the boats, applying themselves to break down boughs from the trees and make a great cabin to defend themselves that night from the cold. They also kindled a fire by rubbing two dry staves one against the other. And because all of them set their hands to work, the poor frame was quickly set up, whither they all withdrew themselves, supplying the discommodity of the place by the greatness of the fire which they kindled. This miserable cabin seemed to them a royal palace: they assuaged their extreme hunger, and had quickly fallen asleep, but were letted by the desire which Periander had to know the success of this musician, praying him, if it were possible, to tell the story of his hard fortunes, for they could not possibly be good in these places. The courteous musician, without further entreaty, said thus unto him. CHAPTER X. Of that which the amorous Portugal recounted. "I will finish my story with as few words as I can possible, and therewith end my life, if I may credit a certain dream which hath troubled my mind the last night. I am by nation a Portugal, of noble blood, and rich in the goods of nature and fortune. My name is Manuel de Sosa; my country, Lisbon, and my profession a soldier. Next unto my father's house, and but a wall betwixt, another knight dwelt, of the ancient stock of the Peregras, who had one only daughter, heir of his goods, the staff and hope of her parents' welfare, who for her birth, wealth and beauty was desired in marriage by the best of the realm. And I who, being next neighbour to her house had best means to see her, I viewed her, got knowledge of her, and adored her with more doubtful than certain hope to espouse her. And to gain time, knowing she could not be won with prayers, promises, nor gifts, I brought to pass that one of my parents demanded her friends that I might have her to wife, because that in birth, revenues or age there was no difference betwixt us. Answer was made that their daughter Leonor was not yet old enough to be married and that I should stay yet two years, assuring me on their words, that in all that time they would not dispose of their daughter without giving me notice. "This first blow I endured with patience, but left not to serve her openly by colour of mine honest intent, which was immediately known over all the city. She, with her parents' licence, received my services, witnessing that, if she were not delighted therewith, at the least she did not despise them. "It fell so about this time that the king sent me for General of part of his forces which held in Barbary. The day came when I should depart and, forasmuch as it was not also the day of my death, there is no absence which killeth, nor pain which consumeth. I spake unto her father, praying him that he would again give me his word to stay for me these two years; which he granted me, and permitted me to take my leave of his wife and daughter, which came forth with her mother into the hall; and with her came honesty, bravery and modesty. I fell in a trance when I saw so many perfections of beauty hard by me. I would have spoken, but my heart and voice failed me, my tongue cleaved to the roof of my mouth, and I neither knew nor was able to do anything else than hold my peace, and by my silence give a forcible token in what astonishment I was. This, her father perceiving, who was both wise and courteous, he embraced me with these words: 'Ever, Sir Manuel, the days of departure inhibit the freedom of the tongue, and it may be this silence doth speak better in your favour than eloquence itself would do. Go and execute your charge, and return as soon as you can, for I will not fail in one point of that which concerneth my word, or your service. My daughter Leonor is obedient; my wife hath care to please me; and I have the desire which I have spoken: with which three things you may look for an happy event of your purpose.' "These words were in such sort imprinted in my memory that I have never forgotten them, nor shall do as long as I live. The fair Leonor or her mother spake no more than I. Thence I departed to go into Barbary: two years I followed my charge, and then returned to Lisbon, and found that the renown of Leonor's beauty had not only passed the walls of the city, but the frontiers of the realm, and was extended into all Spain and divers other parts, whereupon embassies were sent from princes and lords whose purpose was to marry her. "In the end, seeing the term of two years expired, I again beseeched her father to give her unto me. Oh, wretched man that I am! It is not possible for me to stand any longer upon these circumstances; for I perceive death calleth for my life, and I fear will not give me liberty to declare my mishaps which, if it might fall out, I would not hold them for such. To be brief, upon a certain day, they advertised me that the Sunday following they would give me my desired Leonor. At which news, my contentment was so much that it had well-nigh cost me my life. I invited my parents, called my friends, provided apparel, and sent presents, and did whatsoever might make declaration that I should be married unto Leonor. "The day being come, I was accompanied with the best in the city to a monastery of religious nuns called the Mother of God, where they said my mistress waited for me the day before, because she would have her marriage solemnised in this monastery with the licence of the Archbishop of that city." Here the sorrowful knight paused a little, as it were to take breath, and then went forward with his discourse after this manner. "I came to the monastery, which was richly garnished. Almost all the chief personages of the realm came forth before me, which stood there waiting with an infinite number of the greatest ladies of the town. It seemed as though the church would have fallen down, by reason of the music of voices and instruments. At the sound whereof, the incomparable Leonor came forth, accompanied with the Prioress and many other religious women, attired in a gown of white satin without veil, cut after the Spanish fashion upon green cloth of gold, and the cuts tied with great rich pearl. Her hair was spread in length upon her shoulders, which were so yellow that they defaced the sun's brightness and so long that they kissed the ground. The girdle, chain, and jewels which she wore could hardly be valued. Once more I affirm that she came forth so fair, so brave, and so perfect, that she caused the women to envy, and the men to admire her. For myself, I confess, in seeing her I thought myself unworthy to deserve her. There was in the church, as it were, a scaffold in the midst of the choir where our marriage should be joyfully solemnised, upon which Leonor ascended first, where she more evidently discovered the excellency of her beauty. She appeared to all those that beheld her like the morning at break of day or, as the fables report, as Diana appearing in the woods; but the discreeter sort would compare her to none but herself. "I came up next on the same scaffold, thinking that I should mount to heaven; and kneeling down before her, I did seem in a manner to worship her. All the temple resounded with the voices of an infinite number of persons, who said, 'Live you happy, lovers! Many years may you live in the world: let your children stand round about your table: and your love be extended to your children's children: let not your hearts ever be touched with jealousy: let envy lie prostrate at your feet; and good fortune never forsake your house.' "All these blessings filled my soul with contentment, seeing the common pleasure which the people had of my fortune. Then the fair Leonor took me by the hand and, speaking somewhat louder, she said thus. 'You know well, Sir Manuel, how my father gave you his word that he would not dispose of my person in two years, accounting from the time that you demanded me in marriage. And I also said unto you, as I remember, when I saw myself urged by your suit, being thereunto bound by infinite services which I owe rather to your courtesy than my desert, that I would never have any other husband upon earth but you. My father, as you have seen, hath performed his word; and I will hold mine unto you as you shall perceive. And because I know that deceits, although they be honourable or profitable, cannot be void of some treason when they are prolonged, I will in a word bring you out of that error wherein you suppose I have brought you. I am married, sir, and my husband is living, and by no means in the world can I be married unto any other. I leave you not for any one in earth, but for one which is in heaven. Jesus Christ, very God and Man, is my true husband: I have given to him my word rather than to you; to him without any deceit, and with my whole will: to you with dissimulation, and without any assurance. I confess, if I should have chosen a spouse in earth, there is none equal unto you: but if, because I have chosen GOD in heaven, you think this to be deceitful or ill dealing, inflict on me what pain you will, or call me by what name you please: for there is no promise, threatening or death which shall separate me from my spouse which was crucified.' "Here she ended her speech; and at the same time the Prioress and the other nuns began to take off her clothes, and to cut the precious tresses of her hair. I stood like one dumb without reply and, kneeling before her, yet without tears, half by force I kissed her hand. She, with christian pity, cast her arm about my neck. I rose up, and speaking aloud that all might understand me, I uttered this saying: 'She hath chosen the best part'. Having so said, I descended from the scaffold, returning to mine own house in the company of my friends: where so strange a success passing to and fro in my fantasy, in a manner I lost my wits, and for the same cause am now presently to lose my life." With that he gave a great sigh, and falling to the ground he yielded up the ghost. CHAPTER XI The death of the Spanish gentleman, and how Periander and his company landed in another island. Periander hastily ran unto him, and found that he was dead, leaving them all in confusion and marvel at such a strange accident. "This sleep," then said Auristela, "hath excused this poor knight from telling us his last night's dream, the prison of the barbarians, and the distresses which have brought him unto such a lamentable end." Hereunto the barbarous Anthony replied, "Misfortunes are always no less to be feared, than at what hour they end their lives that suffer them." They provided for his burial in the best manner they could. His proper clothes did serve for his winding sheet: the snow, for the earth: and for the cross, they took that which they found on his breast under a waistcoat, being a crucifix, because he was a knight wearing Christ's cognisance. Neither was it needful to have found for him this honourable token of nobility, for his grave countenance and wise discourse had before very sufficiently assured them thereof. Compassion did her wonted office, drawing tears from all the company. Shortly after the day appeared, they brought down the boats into the water, and it seemed to them that a smooth and calm sea expected their coming: and they betwixt fear and hope, not too sad, nor yet overjoyed, went on their course, not knowing whither they should be brought. These seas are all full of small islands, desert for the most part. If any be peopled, they are inhabited by rustics and half barbarians, of small courtesy and much pride. Yet herewithal they desired in some one of them to receive entertainment, because they could not believe that their inhabitants could be so cruel, but that the mountains of snow and steep rocks, which they left behind hard by, did far surmount them. They floated on the waters ten days, without taking any port, land or covert, leaving as well on the right hand as on the left many small isles, which none could perceive to be inhabited. At last, casting their eyes on a great mountain which they then descried, they strove with all their forces to come thither, because their boats were leaky, and their provision of victuals now failed. And being there arrived, more by the favour of heaven than strength of their arms, they saw two men on the shore, to whom Transilla called, asking of what country they were, and what religion they professed. They answered in a language which she understood, that this isle was called Holland, and by religion they were Christians, although the place were in a manner desert, because the inhabitants were so few that all of them had but one house, which served for lodging to a number of people that came to a harbour; which they pointed with their hand to be on the other side of a small rock. "And if you desire to provide yourselves of anything, follow us by direction of the eye, and we will bring you to the haven." Those in the boats gave God thanks, and by sea followed their guides that went by land. And having doubled the rock which was showed them, they saw a covert that might be called a haven, wherein were ten or twelve bottoms, some small, some mean, some great. Their joy was much to see them, hoping to change their vessels, having assurance with less hazard to conclude their voyage. As they came ashore, other people came forth to receive them, as well from the lodging, as from the ships. Auristela got to land in the arms of Periander, having on that apparel which he was attired with when Arnaldo sold him to the barbarians. With her came forth the fair Transilla; the excellent barbarian Constance, and her mother Ricla, followed with all the other that came in the boats. The view of this admirable troop did bring such astonishment to them of sea and land that little failed that they had not fallen down on their faces to worship Auristela. They beheld her in silence with such respect that they durst not speak a word, for fear that they should be otherwise employed than to look upon her. The fair Transilla, who as before we have said, had found by trial that they understood her speech, was the first that broke this silence, and spake thus unto them. "Our evil fortune, continued until this day, hath brought us now upon your coast. You may know by our furniture and mild demeanour that we rather seek peace than war, for neither women nor men in distress have any desire to fight. Receive us, my masters, into your lodging, or your ships; for the boats which brought us hither can no longer carry us without wreck at the first commotion of the waters. And if you will give unto us things necessary in exchange, either for gold or silver, you shall be recompensed abundantly with ease at the highest rate you sell, which we will as cheerfully receive, as if it were freely given us." Hereunto a man seeming to belong to one of the ships, answered in Spanish: "He should be of small judgement, fair gentlewoman, that would anything doubt of your speech; for although leasing do dissemble, and hurt disguiseth itself under the mask of truth and honesty, it is not possible to find place to lodge with so great beauty as yours. The Master of this lodging is courteous, so likewise are those of the ships: choose whether you like best, to come hither, or go to them aboard; for you shall be received of the one, or the other, as your worthiness doth deserve." "Since the heaven," said the barbarian Anthony, hearing him speak in his own language, "hath brought us into a place where the sweet tongue of my nation resoundeth in mine ears, I already am certainly assured that my misfortunes are at an end. Let us to the lodging, my masters; and when we have rested a while, we will take order to proceed on our journey with greater safety than we have had hitherto." Then a mariner which was in the top of one of the ships, cried out in the English tongue, "I spy a ship going directly before the wind and sea, which cometh with full sail into this road." They all prepared themselves to stand on their guard, and in the same place attended the ship, which appeared to be very nigh unto them. When they joined, they saw red crosses overthwart the sails, and knew that in a flag hanging on the main top-mast were painted the arms of England. The ship discharged two pieces of ordnance and about twenty musket-shot. Upon the land they made a sign of peace with their voices, because they had no artillery to answer them. CHAPTER XII. Where is told whence they were that came in the ship. After the salutations on both parts, as well by those on land as them at sea, were finished as we have said, those of the ship let fall their anchors, and presently hoisted a skiff into the water, which four mariners hanged about with tapestry. And taking them to their oars, there entered an old man, seeming to be three score years old, attired in a gown of black velvet reaching down to his feet, lined with furs and girt with a silken cord. On his head he wore a hat high and sharp-pointed, which seemed to be of rich furs. After him came into the boat a lusty and brave young man, four or five and twenty years old, attired likewise in black velvet, with a gilt sword in his hand and a poniard at his girdle. Soon after they threw from the ship into the boat, a man laden with irons, and a woman also fastened like him to the same irons: he was about forty years of age, and she more than fifty. The mariners forced forward their skiff and immediately came to land. Transilla, who no less than the other was earnest in beholding those that came in this skiff, turning to Auristela, she said thus unto her. "I pray you, fair gentlewoman, cover my face a little with your scarf, for that either my knowledge is small, or those which come in this boat are such persons as I know, and which know me also." Auristela gave her her scarf, and straightway those of the boat came ashore, who were received amongst them with all manner of courtesy. Then the old man in the furred hat, approaching to Transilla said thus unto her. "If my skill deceive me not, fortune hath not contradicted me in this meeting." And in speaking these words, he lifted up the veil which covered the face of Transilla, and fell in a swoon in her arms. Doubtless, we may believe that a novelty so little expected could not but plunge the standers-by in a deep admiration, and so much the more when they heard Transilla say, "O Father, what manner of coming hither is this? Who brought your white hairs and reverend years into lands so far from your native soil?" The young man then answered, "Who should bring him, but only a desire to find you? Both he and I come to find the North Pole, which might conduct us to the haven of rest. But seeing, praised be God, we have found it, bring again to himself Sir Maurice, and grant that I may have some part of his mirth in receiving him as your father, and me as your spouse." Maurice recovered, and Transilla succeeded him immediately in the like swooning. Auristela hastened to succour her. Ladislas, who was the young man, came not to her, that he might observe a greater respect on her behalf. But, as these trances proceeding of joy either quickly stop the passages of life or pass away instantly, that of Transilla was of small continuance. The Master of the lodging entreated them to come in, that he might entertain them with more commodity and less feeling of the cold. They followed his advice and entering into the lodging, they found it great, and sufficient to lodge a navy. The two prisoners were also brought thither by the arquebusiers, who had them in custody. Some ran to the ships to fetch victuals: others lighted candles, and furnished the tables: where, without entering into any discourse, they all satisfied their hunger, rather with divers kinds of fish which they were served with, than any other kind of food, for there was none other flesh but certain fowls, which they breed up in these parts after so strange a manner, that I cannot but relate it. They thrust down staves on the seashore among the rocks, half within the water, and half above. Within a small time after, that which is covered is converted into stone, and that which remaineth above, corrupteth: and of that corruption is engendered a little bird which, flying to land, waxeth greater, and is so good meat that these are the best victuals they have. These fowls are called Barnacles, and do chiefly abound in Ireland. The desire, which all of them had to know the adventures of them which last arrived, made them think their supper continued over long; which being finished, the old Maurice laying his hand on the table, made a sign that all should give him audience. Everyone held their peace: and as their lips were closed up in silence, curiosity at the same time opened their ears: which when Maurice perceived, he spake in this manner. "I was born in one of the seven isles neighbouring about Ireland, and am issued from so ancient a family, that it sufficeth to say, I am lineally descended from the Maurices, for hereunto more cannot be added. I am a christian Catholic, and none of those which seek for the truth in their opinions. My parents brought me up to study as well the war as my book, if I may say there be any study in warfare. Above all sciences, I have had most delight in judicial astrology, wherein I have gotten a renown sufficiently famous. I married a fair gentlewoman, one of the chiefest of my city, of whom I had this daughter which is here present. I followed such customs of my country which were conformable to reason and the others only in outward show; for many times dissimulation is profitable. I have had the care of bringing up this maid, for her mother died two years after her birth: and I lost the staff of mine age, and the care of this child's education increased. For ease whereof, it being too heavy a burden for weak and weary shoulders, perceiving her old enough to be married I gave her this young man sitting by my side, having first obtained my daughter's consent; for I hold it reasonable that fathers should marry their daughters with their good wills. For it is not for a day that they must keep company together, but all the time of their life. Which, many fathers contemning, have been the occasion of infinite inconveniences which have followed thereupon, and will hereafter always ensue. Now, you must know that in our country there is a custom, the worst of all those that are wickedly observed, which is that, the marriage agreed upon, and the wedding day come, those that are espoused, and their brothers if they have any, together with the nearest kindred on both parts, meet in a house: some to be witnesses, others to be executioners, for I may well term them such. The bride is put into a rich chamber, there staying till her husband's brothers, or (in default of such) the nearest kinsfolk come to gather flowers in that garden where her husband only should have entrance. A custom brutish and barbarous: for what richer dowry can a maid bring to her husband than her virginity? Because honesty should always walk with shamefastness, and shamefastness with honesty: for where either of these is lost, all beauty of the world is to be despised. "I have many times gone about to persuade my citizens to relinquish so prodigious a custom, but I could no sooner propound it but that which I counselled them unto was pursued with many threatenings whereby I find it is true, that custom is another nature, and change is as grievous as death. "Finally, my daughter shut up herself in the chamber, staying till this custom might take effect. And when a brother of her husband's would have entered to begin this bad action, behold: forth came Transilla into the hall where we all abode, with a dart in her hand: fair as the sun, but furious like a lioness." Hitherto Maurice had continued his history, and everyone hearkened unto him with all attention possible, when Transilla, taking again the same courage that she had at that time when she was seen in the occasion related by her father, she rose up, her speech troubled with anger, her face with blushing, and her eyes on fire, with a gesture that might have made her less fair than she was, if great beauties could be abated by accident; and taking the word from her father's mouth, she spake that which shall be told you in another chapter. CHAPTER XIII. Wherein Transilla prosecuteth the story begun by her Father. "I came forth," said Transilla, "into the great hall, as my father was about to tell you, and looking round about, threatening these barbarous people with my dart's point, who, under colour of compliments would till another man's field, I passed through the midst of them, and came into the street, having no company but my displeasure; and from thence with one race to the seaside where, after a thousand discourses which I made in my fantasy, I entered into a boat which there I found by chance; and taking hold of a pair of oars, I rowed from the land as far as I could. But seeing they followed me in greater boats which were forced forward with more strength than mine, and that it was impossible to save myself by flight, I left the oars which I had taken and took again the dart which I had left, with an intent to abide them, and rather to lose my life than yield myself again into their power: first, revenging the wrong which they were about to offer me. The heaven, pitying my misfortune, raised such a wind that my boat was carried into the main sea without help of oars, until it came to a current which drove it with violence a great deal more forward, depriving my pursuers of all hope to overtake me; who durst not hazard themselves to pass any further." "It is very true," said Ladislas, "that I had not left off to follow you, as she that carried my soul with her: but the night came, we lost your sight; and besides, lost all hope ever to find you alive, but only in the tongues of renown, which will never suffer an action to die so worthy to be made famous." "It fell out," said Transilla, "that the same wind drove me on a certain shore where I found fishermen, who gently received me, provided my lodging, and besides offered me an husband if I had none, and I believe without any such conditions as I fled from. But like as covetousness reigneth everywhere, and stretcheth her empire even unto the rocks and gulfs of the sea, yea, into the most hard and wild hearts: she entered this night into these clownish minds, which agreed among themselves to sell me to the pirates whom they had descried nigh unto that place; for that the booty which they had made of me all together could not be divided. I could well have offered them a greater price than they demanded of the pirates, but I rather chose to fall into their hands than return into those of my citizens. As the rovers passed by, the next morning, they sold me unto them, I know not at what rate; but first they spoiled me of all the bride's jewels which I wore. I may say that the thieves used me better than my kinsfolk, willing me not to torment myself, because they had not bought me to be made a slave but to be a queen, yea, queen of the whole universe, if the prophecies of this barbarous isle, whereof there was so much talk in the world, were not false and lying. "How I came thither, after what sort the barbarians received me, and how I learned their tongue, their manners, ceremonies and customs, the vain accomplishment of their prophecy, the meeting of these gentlemen, the burning of the isle, and finally, the obtaining of our liberty, I may tell you another time at more leisure, and to better purpose. In the mean time I will resign the place to my father, to the end he may declare unto us what fortune hath brought him to make mine so good, whereas least of all I expected it." Thus Transilla finished her discourse, holding all the company enchained to her sweet tongue and in admiration of her beauty. And then Maurice her father spake thus unto her. "Thou knowest, my girl, that among my studies and most pleasing exercises I was chiefly addicted to those of judicial astrology, because when they are met withal they better content men's desires than any other, not only in things past and present, but likewise in such as are yet to come. I then seeing thee to be lost, noted the hour and minute, observed the stars, considered the aspects of the planets, their places, and houses necessary, to the end my pains might answer my desire. For no science is so apt to beguile as this art. The deceit lieth only in want of true knowledge, which chiefly happeneth by the swiftness of the heavens, bearing all the stars with them: whose influence cometh to us in one place and not in another. And if the astrologer sometimes hit right in his judgements, this is because he leaneth to that which is most likely to be true and oftenest experimented. And the best astrologer in the world is the devil, who is many times deceived, although he judge not of future events by this science alone, but also by conjectures; which we that are but learners in this science cannot do but by divers assays and little assurance. Notwithstanding all this, I found that thy loss should continue two years, and that I should find thee again this very day, and in this very place, to make my white hairs young, and to give God thanks for the recovery of my riches, rejoicing my mind with thy presence, although I know that this shall be with the expense and cost of some tears. For good successes are ordinarily balanced by mishaps, which have, as it were, a lordship and possession amidst our fortunes to teach us that there is no eternal good thing in this life, nor evil which is infinite." "God will afford us this favour," then said Auristela, who had been silent a long time, "to send us an happy voyage, because that so good a meeting promiseth us no less." The woman prisoner, who had heard Transilla most attentively, rose up, though she were in irons and, in despite of him to whom she was chained, who would have hindered her, spake that which followeth in another chapter. CHAPTER XIII. Wherein is declared who were the prisoners enchained. "If such as are afflicted may have liberty to speak before them that are in happy case, I beseech all this company here to grant me so much for this once. I will be nothing troublesome, for the shortness of my speech shall moderate the displeasure which might arise by hearkening thereunto. Thou complainest," said she, turning towards Transilla, "of the barbarous custom of the city, as though it were a savage action to walk a horse in a race, before he run the career. But know that in all things, experience is the mistress of arts; and it had been better to fall in thine husband's company after thou hast been tried, than not to fall in any sort whatsoever." At this last word, the man that was in chains with her struck her on the face with his fist, and with threats thus said unto her: "O Rosamond, it is no marvel that thou, having spent thy whole life in wantonness, dost now condemn as evil the honesty of gentlewomen. Know ye gentlemen," said he, looking on all them that were by, "that this woman whom ye see bound, like one out of her wits, is that famous Rosamond heretofore so much beloved by the King of England that she commanded the king and the realm, made and dissolved the laws, advanced the vicious which were put down, and overthrew the virtuous which were promoted. She was so boundless in her pleasures that, breaking the chains of adamant wherewith she had fastened the king's heart, her outrageous and unruly appetites constrained him to leave her, with as much contempt as he had honoured her before. As touching myself, I lived full of despite, with desire to make known to the world how the favours of my prince were ill bestowed in his affection which he bore to this wanton. For I have a certain envious mind, a satirical pen and a railing tongue, delighting in despiteful jests: and to utter one, I would not only lose a friend, but an hundred thousand lives. Neither prisons nor banishments could stop my mouth, no threats terrify me, no correction amend me. To be brief, the day of our last payment came to us both at once. The king proclaimed throughout his realm that none should give her either in alms, or for money, anything else but bread to eat and water to drink, and that they should conduct me with her, into one of these desolate isles which are here: which punishment is more cruel unto me than if they had taken away my life, for the time I pass in her company." "Consider Clodio," said Rosamond, "how much I dislike thy fellowship; for a thousand times I was in mind to cast myself into the sea, and the cause why I did not effect it, was, lest I should drag thee after me. For if I could be in hell without thee, my torments would be mitigated. I confess my faults have been great, but they have lighted on a weak subject; whereas thine lay on the shoulders of a man of great strength, which nevertheless have produced none other benefit but a vain delight, and lighter than the chaff which is carried away in a whirlwind. Thou hast shamed the reputation of a thousand honest women, and blasted the honour of as many worthy men; defamed as many families as thou hast known; and discovered as many secrets as thou hast had notice of. In the end, thou hast been so hardy to reprove thy king, thy citizens, thy friends, thine own kindred, and discredit all the world. I would the king had been pleased that I might have ended my life by any other kind of death than by the wounds I receive continually from thy tongue, from which neither heaven nor the saints can be sometime secured." "And herewithal," said Clodio, "my conscience doth not accuse me ever to have told a lie." "It hath enough to accuse thee," said Rosamond, "were it but for the verities thou hast spoken: for all truths must not be blazed abroad to the view of everyone." "She hath reason then," spake Maurice, "in saying that the truth of faults committed in secret ought not to be made public, especially those of kings: for it belongeth not to a private man to reprove his sovereign, nor blaze the princes' faults in their subjects' hearing. Neither should this be a means to amend their errors, but to make small reckoning thereof; for that sometimes, open correction hardeneth his nature that receiveth it, and rather maketh him wilful than able to be reformed. And if correction amongst all should be with brotherly affection, why should not the prince enjoy this privilege? Moreover, the honour which is lost by writing can never be restored; without which, the offences are never pardoned. Hereupon, by good right, writers of invectives are banished, and drawn from their houses: not only without honour, but besides with infamy." "I know all this," answered Clodio; "but if I may not be suffered to speak nor write, though they cut off my tongue and mine arms, yet I would put my mouth to the ground and cry as loud as I could, until that reeds should spring there, as it happened to Midas." "Let us make peace between Rosamond and Clodio," said Ladislas, "and let us marry them together. It may be, through the sacramental blessing and both their discretions, they will alter their course of life, in changing their estate." "I will sooner," said Rosamond, "thrust a knife into my body to let out my soul, which is already at my teeth, having only heard speech of such an unhappy marriage." "I will not kill myself," said Clodio; "for though I have a bad tongue, yet the pleasure I take in speaking evil when I speak well, maketh me have a desire to live. It is true that I am purposed to shun the face of princes; for they have long arms, and can reach wheresoever, and whomsoever they list, as experience hath made me perceive. And also charity teacheth us to pray for the life and health of the prince, though he be wicked." "He that knoweth all this," said the barbarian Anthony, "is at the point of amendment. There is no sin so great but repentance will blot it out: yet words are like stones, which let go from the hand, return not to the place from whence they came but after they have given the stroke; and so, seldom it happeneth that to repent of that which is spoken, can lessen the offence: yet this is the best physic for diseases of the soul." CHAPTER XV. Of Prince Arnaldo's arrival at the island where Periander and his company were. They were in this discourse when a mariner came into the lodging to tell them that a great ship was coming to the haven, which he had no knowledge of. He had scarcely said so much but they heard the great guns of the same ship, which had saluted those in the haven, and those of Maurice which answered them. All those in the lodging came immediately to the haven and Periander, seeing the ship newly arrived, knew it pertained to the Prince of Denmark, whereat he was nothing contented but, contrarily, it turned his heart upside-down. The like alarms his Auristela received, as she that knew by long experience the love which Arnaldo bore her; neither could she imagine how the wills of him and Periander should agree together but that the arrows of jealousy must go through their souls. Arnaldo was now come to the haven and Periander came foremost to receive him; but Auristela stirred not from her place, but rather would have desired that her feet might be planted in the ground and converted into roots, as happened to the daughter of Penæas when she fled before Apollo. When Arnaldo saw Periander, he knew him, and skipping from the boat's stern to land, said thus in embracing him. "If I, Periander, were so happy as to find with thee thy sister Auristela, I could fear no evil, nor hope for so great a good." "She is with me, valorous prince," said Periander, "for the heavens being careful to favour thine honest and virtuous intents have preserved her for thee." Already they all were informed that this was the Prince of Denmark, and yet Auristela remained immovable and dumb like an image. With her was the fair Transilla, and the two that seemed barbarians, Ricla and Constance. Arnaldo came near and, kneeling before Auristela: "Thou art well found, O North Pole which my thoughts do follow, and the fixed star that guidest me to the haven of my desires." To all this Auristela answered nothing but tears, which began to wash the roses of her cheeks. Arnaldo, confounded at such an accident, could not judge whether it proceeded from sadness or joy, but Periander, who observed all the motions of Auristela, put him out of doubt, saying: "My lord, the silence of my sister proceedeth from admiration to see you in a place where you were so little expected, and her tears from the pleasure which she hath to see you, in remembrance of the debts she owes you for the good and honest entertainment which she hath received at your hands." Herewithal they returned to the lodging, the tables were covered again, their hearts were filled with joy and the glasses with excellent wines, for they become so good by carriage on the sea that there is no nectar comparable thereunto. This second dinner was made for Arnaldo's sake, to whom Periander related what had befallen him in the barbarous isle, with the liberty of Auristela and all other accidents whereof we have made mention, which caused Arnaldo to marvel and, withal, astonished and rejoiced all the whole company. CHAPTER XVI The discourse that passed between Arnaldo and Periander touching Auristela. Then spake the Master of the inn: "I know not if I ought to say that I am sorry for the fair weather which the signs of heaven promise unto the sea. The sun is pure and bright, there is not a cloud to be seen either nigh or far off. The waves gently beat the shore, the birds walk nigh the sea, which are all tokens of a certain and continued calm which will induce these so many honourable guests to leave me alone." "It is true," said Maurice, "for albeit we dearly esteem and like your company, yet the desire we have to return to our own homes will not permit us to enjoy the same any long time. As for myself, I purpose this night at the first watch to set sail, if my pilot be of that mind." Whereunto Arnaldo replied: "The loss of time can never be recovered, and that which is vainly spent in navigation cannot be repaired." In effect, all those which were in the haven agreed that night to shape their course for England. Arnaldo took Periander by the hand, and went with him out of the inn; and seeing themselves alone, that none could hear what was spoken, he said thus unto him. "It is not possible, Periander, but thy sister Auristela hath told thee the purpose which within these two years after she came into the power of the king my father, I have testified unto her, so conformable to her honest desires, that never any word issued out of my mouth which might trouble her chaste intentions. I never would know her affairs any further than she was willing to tell me, representing her to mine imagination, not as an ordinary personage, but as a queen: for her honesty and surpassing discretion would not suffer me to conceive any other than honest and discreet thoughts. "A thousand times I have offered myself to be her husband, with my father's consent, and yet me thought mine offer was but small. Always she made me answer, that until she had been at Rome, whither she was going to accomplish a vow, she could not dispose of her person. She never would declare unto me the quality of her own or her parents' birth, nor have I been importunate with her to tell me, because without depending upon other nobility than her own virtue, the same alone of itself sufficiently deserveth not only the Crown of Denmark but moreover the monarchy of the world. "I have spoken unto thee thus much, Periander, to the intent that, as a man of understanding and wit, thou shouldest consider what fortune knocketh at the gate of thine and thy sister's profit: to whom I presently offer myself to be her husband, promising to accomplish this offer when she will, and where she will, be it under this poor roof, or within the guilded palace of the famous city of Rome." Here Arnaldo ended his discourse and attentively hearkened unto Periander's answer, which was in this manner. "Worthy Prince, I know well the obligations wherein my sister and I stand bound unto you for the favours you have done us hitherto, and for that which you now do in offering to make me your brother and her your wife. But howsoever it may seem folly that two miserable strangers, banished from their country, do not straightway accept of the good which you offer them, yet I will say this unto you, that it is not possible for us to receive this favour, but only to acknowledge it with thankfulness. My sister and I, carried by destiny and our own desire, are going to the holy city of Rome and, till we be there, it seems we are not ourselves, nor at liberty to enjoy our free will. If heaven afford us the favour to tread upon that land, and adore the holy relics that are there, we may dispose of our wills, which are hindered at this present; and mine shall thenceforth be wholly employed in your service. Thus much I may well say unto you, that if you attain the accomplishment of your desire, you shall espouse a woman of noble birth, and besides shall have a servant of me, that shall affect you more like a brother than a brother-in-law. One favour I request amongst so many others which you have afforded me: which is, that you would inquire no further of our affairs, nor of our life, to the end you compel me not to lie by inventing things false and untrue, because I cannot tell you such as are veritable." "Dispose of me, brother," said Arnaldo, "and make account that I am the wax and you the seal, and that you may make any impression in me that you please. And if you think good, let us depart hence this night and go for England. For from thence we may easily pass into France and Italy, in which voyage I mean to bear you company in any fashion you please." Albeit Periander were troubled at this last offer, yet he could not excuse himself from receiving it, trusting upon time and delay, which many times alter such unlucky accidents, to a better event. And so these two, being brothers-in-law in hope, embraced each other and, returning to the inn, took order for their departure. Auristela had seen how Arnaldo and Periander went forth together, and was in much pain to know the resolution of their discourse. And although she knew the modesty of the Prince and the discretion of Periander, yet a thousand several fears disquieted her, thinking that like as Arnaldo's love was equal to his power, he might turn his entreaties into force. For Patience is many times changed into rage in the hearts of disdained lovers, and courtesy into incivility. But she was discharged of this fear and recovered her lost spirits, when she saw them to return so peaceably. The foul-mouthed Clodio, who already had known who Arnaldo was, threw himself at his feet, beseeching him to take him from the chain and deliver him from the company of Rosamond. Maurice told him the conditions, faults and punishment of Clodio, and also of Rosamond; and the Prince, moved with compassion, undertook to obtain their pardon from the King of England; and by this means brought to pass that the captain who had them in custody took off their irons and set them at liberty. Whereby Clodio was moved to say thus: "If all lords would give their minds to do well, there would none busy themselves to speak evil of them. But how can we hope that he which doth evil can be well reported of by any? And if virtuous deeds and good works be slandered by men's malicious humours, why should not such as are wicked be evil spoken of? Why should we hope for any good fruit of his crop, who hath sowed nothing but cockle and villainy? Take me away with thee, O Prince, and thou shalt see that I know how to advance thy praises above the circles of the moon." "Not so," answered Arnaldo, "I will not be praised for such works as are in me by nature. And further, I say that the praise is good but so far forth as he that speaketh it is good: and likewise it is wicked, if he that praiseth be wicked. For it is a praise when he that praiseth is virtuous, but a reproach when it proceedeth from a vicious person." CHAPTER XVII. Wherein Arnaldo declareth what success befell Taurisa. Auristela had a great desire to know what was passed betwixt Arnaldo and Periander in the conference which they had out of the inn, and impatiently waited for opportunity to inquire of Periander, as also fit occasion to learn of Arnaldo what was become of her damsel Taurisa. And even as if Arnaldo had known her thoughts by divination, he said unto her, "The misfortunes which have befallen you, fair Auristela, have made you forget those things which you are obliged always to keep in remembrance. Amongst which I would myself had been defaced: for the only imagination that you have sometimes been mindful of me, might make me live contentedly, because none can forget that which he never remembered. Nevertheless, whether you remember me or not remember me at all, I am well contented with all that pleaseth you. The heaven, which hath ordained me to be yours, hath not left me any other will but that which shall obey you. Your brother Periander hath told me many things that have befallen you since you were carried out of my realm, which have caused unto me both admiration and astonishment at once: which have made me see that misfortunes blot out the memory of such obligations as appear to have been constrained. You have here heard no news of my father, nor of your damsel Taurisa. I left him in good health, through a desire that I might be so happy as to find you. As touching her, I brought her with me with an intent to sell her to the barbarians, that she might serve me as a spy amongst them, and learn if fortune had brought you into their power, as she put your brother into mine. I believe he hath already told you so much, and what our drift was. And although I oftentimes assayed to return unto the barbarian isle, yet I was always hindered by contrary winds. I returned thither again with the same purpose and the same desire which the heavens have caused me to finish with so great advantage as to have you in my presence, even you that are the absolute ease of all my cares. As for Taurisa, because she was sick, I delivered her within these two days to two knights whom I met in these seas in a stout ship wherein they sailed unto Ireland; and because the ship wherein I am is more like a pirate's than a prince's ship, not having wherewithal to succour her, I have sent her into Ireland, where she shall be carefully looked unto with all things necessary till I shall go thither myself and fetch her. This day your brother and I agreed to depart thence tomorrow in the morning, and go into England, France or Spain: for to whichsoever of these we come, we shall have means sufficient to effect the good determination which he told me you have. Consider, I beseech you, if our advice be agreeable unto yours; for if there be never so small difference, we will not put it in execution." "I am none otherwise minded," said Auristela, "than as liketh my brother: and also I cannot believe that he will digress from your will in any respect." This is that which passed betwixt Arnaldo and Auristela, who told all to Periander. And the same night Arnaldo, Periander, Maurice, Ladislas, the two captains, those of the English ship, and all the others who came from the barbarian isle, entered into counsel, and appointed their departure in such manner as followeth. CHAPTER XVIII. How Maurice knew by astrology what evil adventure should befall them at sea. All those which came from prison in the barbarian isle went aboard the ship wherein Maurice, Ladislas and the captains that brought Rosamond and Clodio came to land. And in the ship of Arnaldo were conveniently placed Auristela and Periander, Maurice, Ladislas, Transilla, Ricla and Constance, the two Anthonys, the father and son, and Rutilio: neither would Arnaldo forsake Clodio nor Rosamond. This night they filled their casks with water and bought all the victuals they could procure of their host. And Maurice, having observed the precise time of their departure, said that if their good fortune would make them shun an evil chance threatening them very shortly, they should have an happy voyage; and that this danger, although it should be by water, yet it should not come by any tempest on sea or land, but by treason intermeddled with wanton and unchaste desires. Periander, who was always disquieted in Arnaldo's presence, began to fear that this treason should be contrived by this prince. But opposing the nobleness of his courage against this conceit, he would not believe that which he feared, because he thought that treason could not have any place in the hearts of princes. Nevertheless, he prayed Maurice to consider who should be cause of the damage which threatened them. Maurice answered that he could not tell, but he held the matter assured: yet, said he, it shall not prevail against life, but only trouble their quiet, break off their enterprises, and procure loss of their fairest hopes. Periander hereunto replied that they were best to defer their voyage for a few days and it might be, by prolonging the time, this rigorous influence of the stars might be changed or mitigated. "Not so," said Maurice; "it is better to adventure ourselves in this danger that toucheth not life than take another course whereby we might be cast away." "Go forward then in God's name," said Periander; "the dice are thrown: let us go hence in time, and let heaven do what it shall please, seeing our diligence will nothing prevail." Arnaldo paid royally all the charges which they had been at in the inn and, getting into their ships, they left the haven, and so set sail. The ship of Arnaldo, adorned with waving streamers and flags, went first out of the harbour; the great and small ordnance were discharged, the trumpets sounded, and the voices, often reiterated, of those that took their farewells and wished them a good voyage, filled the air. But all this could not make Auristela lift up her head, which she sadly declined to her stomach, as a forewarning of the evil that should befall her. Arnaldo and Periander beheld her, either of them esteeming her the white whereon to direct his sight, the end of his desires and the chiefest of his joy. A sweet wind cleared the air from all clouds there engendered. Maurice again considered the heavens and observed anew the tokens of the peril hanging over their heads, but he could not foresee from what part it should happen. In this confusion he slept on the ship's deck, and shortly after awaked in great fear, crying aloud, "Treason, treason! You, Prince of Denmark, awake! Your men kill us." At this voice Arnaldo arose, who slept not but was on the same deck with Periander, and demanded, "What is that? What is that which endamageth us? Who kills us? Are we not here all friends? And the rest, are they not my subjects or servants? The sea is calm and quiet, the ship strikes not upon any rock or shelf, no remora stays us: why then shouldest thou fear and disquiet us in this manner?" "I know not," said Maurice, "but let the pump be searched; for unless I be asleep, me thinks we perish." He had no sooner ended these words but four or five mariners went down into the hold and, having looked everywhere about, and not finding any seam at which the water could come in, they came up again on the deck, saying that the ship sailed well, and the water of the pump was thick and stinking, which was a token that no new seawater was entered. "This is the cause," then said Maurice, "that because I am old and quick of apprehension, everything, though it were but dreams, doth terrify me. But God grant it be a dream; for I would rejoice much more to be old and fearful than a true astrologian." "Take your rest, Sir Maurice," said the Prince, "for your dreams will not suffer these gentlewomen to sleep in quiet." "I will do so, my lord," answered Maurice, "if I can." And then lying down again on the deck, there was a profound silence in the ship. In the mean time Rutilio, which sat at the mast foot, invited by the clearness of the night, or fitness of the time, or because he had a very sweet voice, began to sing to the whistling of the wind, which gently struck upon the sails, I know not what verses, which himself had composed. The first who heard him was old Anthony, who said, "Gentlemen, give ear to Rutilio; he sings very well; and if the verses which he singeth be of his own making, he is no bad poet, if an artificer can be one: which I believe may happen, for I call to mind that I have seen poets in Spain of all sorts of occupations." Arnaldo, Periander and Maurice were not asleep: and Maurice said, "It is not impossible that an artisan should be a poet, for that poesy is in the understanding and not in the hands and the soul of a cutler hath as great capacity as a camp-master's; because all souls are equally created and formed in their first beginnings of the same substance. And according to the body's temperature which encloseth them, they show more or less discreet, and are affectioned to the knowledge of such arts and sciences as they are inclined unto by the stars. But principally poets are naturally such from their birth, and so it is no marvel though Rutilio be one, though he have been a master of dancing." "Yea, verily," said Anthony, "so great a master that he fetcheth his capers in the air, above the clouds." "It is true," answered Rutilio that heard him, "that I capered very nigh the heaven when that sorceress whom I slew in the likeness of a wolf carried me in her cloak from Tuscany unto Norway." "This conversion," said Maurice, "of people into wolves, male and female, is a great error among those of the northern climates, although many believe it." "But how happeneth it then," said Arnaldo, "that in England are commonly seen whole troops of wolves in the fields which are nothing else but men and women transformed into wolves." "This cannot be", said Maurice, "in England; for in this temperate and fruitful island, there are no wolves bred. And as touching Ireland, which is an isle adjoining, though there be some wolves, yet there are no venomous beasts as serpents, vipers, toads, scorpions, nor so much as spiders; and if any venomous living creature be brought thither from other places, it dieth when it cometh to the shore there. And if they carry of the earth of this isle into other countries, and therewith environ any viper, she will not adventure, neither shall ever be able to get out of the circle wherein she is enclosed, but will therein continue imprisoned till death. That which ought to be conceived as touching these transmutations, is this. There is a disease which the physicians call wolfish madness, whose quality is such that whosoever suffers it, thinks he is changed into a wolf. He howls like a wolf, and accompanieth others that are stricken with the same sickness, and altogether go in troops through the fields, barking like dogs, or howling like wolves, tearing the trees in pieces, and kill such as they meet, eating all raw, the flesh of dead bodies. And I know that in Sicily, which is the greatest island in the Mediterranean Sea, there are at this day certain people whom the Sicilians call werewolves, who feel their evil before it seize upon them, bidding such as come near them to be gone: who either run from them, or take hold of them and shut them up. For unless they look well to themselves, they pull them in pieces and tear them with teeth and nails as they can, and bark in a most fearful and terrible manner. And this is so true that, when couples are married, they bring certificates to verify that neither of them is tainted with this malady; and if afterward in process of time, experience approve the contrary, the marriage may be dissolved. "This is also an opinion of Plato, that amongst the Arcadians there are a kind of people which in passing a lake do hang their apparel on an oak and, entering naked into a land which is there, they join in shape of wolves with others whom they know to be of their stock, and continue with them nine years: which being ended, passing back through the lake, they recover their former figure. Nevertheless, all this is to be esteemed a fable, and if there be any such thing, it is only in the imagination." "I know not how this is done," said Rutilio, "but well I know at the least I killed a wolf and found the sorceress dead." "All this may be," replied Maurice, "because the strength of witchcraft beguileth our senses, making us to see one thing for another; not that there are any kind of people who can change their nature." "I am very glad I understand this matter," said Arnaldo, "for I was one of those which suffer themselves to be carried unto belief of this error. And so it must be which the fables report of King Arthur his conversion into a raven, which this discreet nation doth so generally believe that they abstain from killing any ravens throughout the island." "I know not," answered Maurice, "from whence might come the original of a fable so ill devised." In such like discourses they spent well-nigh the whole night: and at the break of the day Clodio, that had hearkened unto them without speaking till that present, said: "I am a man that care not much for the proof of these things. What can it avail me to know whether men may be turned into wolves, or not? Or if kings go under the shape of ravens or eagles? Although if they must needs be changed into birds, I had rather have them stock-doves than puttocks." "Good words, Clodio, talk not of kings," said Arnaldo, "for me thinks I see thee whet thy tongue to cut them." "No, no," answered Clodio, "my chastisement hath put a sharp snaffle in my mouth which will not suffer me to open it for this subject. And I had rather burst in holding my peace than make myself merry with speaking. Ill words sometimes do cheer those that understand them but very often they plague those that speak them; whereas there is no law nor penalty against silence. I will continue the rest of my life in peace under the shadow of thy protection, though by fits certain impressions of malice make my tongue dance in my mouth, and stifle between my teeth more than four verities which I would gladly put into the world. But God be praised for all." Then said Auristela: "The sacrifice of your silence which you make to heaven cannot but be very acceptable unto him." Rosamond answered her: "That day wherein Clodio shall relinquish his evil speaking, I will cease to make love; for evil speech is as natural in him as love in me, albeit there is more hope of amendment in me than him, because beauty becometh aged with years, and with beauty amorous desires grow old. But time hath no jurisdiction at all over the tongues of evil speakers; for the older they are, the more they speak evil, because they have seen more. And besides, all the delights of the other senses are abridged and gathered in one unto the tongue." "Both are naught," said Transilla, "and incur the same loss, though the way do differ." "The voyage we take now," said Ladislas, "cannot but be fortunate, considering the wind shows itself favourable and the sea quiet." "It was apparently so the last night," said Constance, "and yet Sir Maurice his dream hath brought us into such a confusion that I believe we all are already swallowed up of the sea." "Truly," said Maurice, "if I were not instructed in the laws of Christianity, and if I remembered not what God said in Leviticus, 'Be not soothsayers, believe no dreams,' which few have the gift to understand, I durst interpret the dream which so greatly disturbed me: which in my judgement proceeded not from any of the causes whence dreams are wont to come. For when they are neither divine revelations nor diabolical illusions, they arise from vapours of the stomach which, ascending to the brain, do trouble the common sense; or from that which a man firmly printeth in his fantasy in the day time. But whencesoever it may come, me thought I saw within a great palace of timberwork, wherein we were, there fell so great quantity of lightnings that they opened the heaven on every side; and that by the rifts which were made in the clouds, they poured down water upon us in such abundance that I thought I was already drowned. But let us give over this conference: for if night come without any alarm, I will require of you, and likewise bestow upon you, some rewards for our good success." At this hour the sun was going into Thetis' arms, the sea was of like smoothness as before, the wind favourable, and not a cloud could be seen in any part to trouble the mariners. Briefly, the heaven, seas, and wind, all together and each of them severally, promised an happy navigation when, upon a sudden, Maurice cried as loud as he could: "Without doubt we cast away ourselves! We cast ourselves away without doubt!" CHAPTER XIX. Wherein is related that which two soldiers did, and how Periander and Auristela were separated. "How is it possible," answered Arnaldo, "that the waters should drown us?" For answer, he saw a man come out from under the deck altogether terrified, casting water from his mouth and eyes, who said with a troubled voice and ill-pronounced: "All this ship is open in divers places, and the sea is come in after such a manner that you shall quickly see it above the deck. Let every one take care of his life. O prince, withdraw yourself to the skiff with that which you most dearly esteem, before the waters get full possession of the vessel." In saying thus, the ship was at a stay by reason of the heaviness of the waters wherewithal it was filled. The pilot suddenly struck sail: and all of them forlorn, through fear, had recourse to such remedies as they had. Arnaldo and Periander leapt into the skiff, and there put Auristela, Transilla, Ricla and Constance, amongst whom Rosamond threw herself, and Maurice came after. At this time two soldiers went to unhang the boat which was fastened to the ship's side: and one of them seeing that the other would enter before him, he drew a poniard from his girdle, which he thrust through his body, saying aloud, "Seeing our fault hath been contrived with so little profit, this pain shall serve to chastise thee, and be to me an example during the small time I have to live. Thou, Prince, hear the truth which this traitor shall tell thee. "The soldier whom thou hast seen me stab into the body with my poniard, and myself, have opened the ship, with an intent to take our pleasures of Auristela and Transilla, by receiving them into the skiff. But having seen my design to fall out otherwise than I thought, I have slain my companion, and will now procure mine own death." And with this last word, he suffered himself to sink to the bottom of the waters, which stopped his breath and buried him in perpetual silence. And although all were amazed and busy to remedy their common danger, yet Arnaldo would needs hear the words of the desperate soldier. Then both he and Periander hastened to the ship's boat: and having caused the young Anthony to enter into the skiff, not remembering to take in any victuals, Ladislas, Anthony the father, Arnaldo, Periander and Clodio entered into the boat, and endeavoured to get aboard the skiff, being a pretty way off from the ship, which by this time was covered with waters, that no part thereof could be seen but the mast, as a token of her burial. In the mean time the night came, and the boat could not come at the skiff, from which Auristela called her brother Periander: who answered by many times repetitions of her name. Ladislas and Transilla did the like, and the sweet voices of wife and husband met in the midst of the air: but it was impossible for them to join together, by reason the night was all covered with darkness and the winds began to blow from divers places. At the last, the boat went a great way from the skiff; and being lighter and less laden, was carried by sea at the pleasure of the winds. The skiff, more by reason of its own heaviness than the burden that was therein, abode as if it had been stayed of purpose. But when it was dark night, they began afresh to feel what misfortune was come upon them, seeing themselves in an unknown sea, threatened with all the severities of heaven, and deprived of such commodities as the land might afford them: the skiff without oars, and without victuals, and themselves weakened with hunger and grief. Maurice, who remained master and mariner of the skiff, had not wherewith to guide it: and so far forth as he could perceive by the plaints, mournings and sighs of those whom he conducted, he had reason to fear lest they would cast themselves away. He considered the stars: though all appeared not, yet some few, which he saw through the dark clouds, gave a little token of better fortune. Yet they showed not unto him whereabouts they were. The sense of their distress would not suffer them to mitigate their sadness by sleep. They watched all the night, and when the day came their pain was augmented through displeasure, because they saw not the boat either near or far off, which was gone from them with their souls, nor yet any other vessel from whence they might look for succour in this necessity. In the end, they discovered an isle on the left hand, which rejoiced and grieved them both at once. Their joy was to see the land so nigh them: and their grief, because they could not get ashore unless the wind should carry them thither. Maurice was he that most assured himself that they all should be safe: and being a judicial astrologer, he had found in the figure which he had drawn that this peril threatened not death unto them. Finally, the favour of heaven, together with the wind, by little and little carried them into the isle, where they took land within a large bay all covered with snow. Miserable and full of terror are the fortunes of the sea, seeing such as suffer them are glad to make exchange with greater discommodities of the land. The coast was desert, and the snow seemed to them as a pleasant sand, and solitariness to be company. They all forsook the boat, one under another's arms. The young Anthony was the Atlas of Auristela and Transilla; upon whose shoulders also Rosamond and Maurice were brought to shore: and they all together went under covert of a rock which they saw not far from the seaside, having first drawn their skiff to land, wherein only, next under God, their last hope remained. Anthony, considering that famine alone was able to kill them, he made ready his bow, which hanged always at this back, saying he would go and discover the land, to see if he might find any kind of men or beasts to relieve them in this necessity. All were of his mind, and so he quickly passed into the isle, treading on the frozen snow, which was so hard as if he had walked on stones. Rosamond followed him, he not perceiving her, nor any of the rest did impeach her, as thinking that some natural necessity had forced her to leave their company. Anthony looking back, and seeing Rosamond hard by him, in time and place where none could see them, he said thus unto her: "Company is a thing which I have least need of in so great necessity as we endure. What would you have, Rosamond? Go back again: for you have no weapons to kill any beast or fowl, neither can I moderate my pace to stay for you. What is the cause you follow me?" "O ignorant youth," answered the honest woman, "how badly dost thou acknowledge the intention wherewith I follow thee, and the bonds which you owe me." And therewith overtaking him, she thus proceeded, saying: "Behold here, O new hunter, fairer than Apollo, another new Daphne, which runs not from thee, but pursueth thee. Look not upon the cruelty of ever-fleeing age, which hath withered my beauty, but consider in me, what was Rosamond, that could subdue kings and the liberty of the proudest spirits. I adore thee which was adored: and amidst these snows and ice, the fire of thy love reduceth me to ashes. Let us cheer one another, and receive me for thine own: I promise thee, if we come into England, to bring thee to such a place where thou mayest fill thy hands with more treasure than ever had Crassus or Midas." Here she stayed her speech, but not the motion of her hands, wherewith she strove to hold fast those of Anthony that thrust her back. And during this honest protestation, Anthony said unto her, "Stand still, thou harpy, or I will stay thee! Get thee gone, thou barbarous Egyptian, and tempt not here the chastity of a man which is not thy slave. Bewray not by thy words that which thou hidest in thy desires: consider the small time that we have to live, from this instant until the point of death, which threateneth us by famine, and by the uncertain means we have to get out of this isle. Get thee out of my sight, if thou wilt not urge me to chastise thy boldness, and publish thy folly. If thou return, I will bury thy shame in silence; but if thou wilt not leave me, I will make thee leave thy life." Rosamond, hearing this, returned back, champing on her bridle. Anthony went forward on his journey but without meeting anything, for the snows were great, the way rough, and without any track of men or beasts: wherefore fearing to be out of knowledge how to come back to the place whence he came if he went down any further, he returned to the company. All held up their hands to heaven, looking on the ground as if they were out of all hope, and said to Maurice that they would return to sea in their skiff, in regard it was impossible to find remedy in such a desolate island. CHAPTER XX. Of a notable accident that happened in the frozen sea. Shortly after they descried a ship coming afar off, which put them again in some hope. The same struck sail, cast anchors, and let fall a skiff into the sea, with very great diligence: which came alone towards the shore where our company full of tears had before entered into theirs. Auristela gave counsel to stay their coming. The ship's skiff came to shore, arriving on the cold snow, whereon two young men leaped, hardy to see to, and no less strong than lusty; carrying a maid exceedingly fair, but so weak and out of remembrance that it seemed she should die before she came to land. They called to those which were aboard the other skiff, requesting them to go ashore, to be witnesses of an accident which was necessary for them to know. Maurice answered that they had no oars to bring their skiff, unless they lent them theirs. The mariners guided them with their oars, and set them again upon the snow. Straightway the two young men covered their bodies with two China-bucklers and, with two sharp-cutting swords in their hands, leaped again to land. Auristela, full of amazement and fearing some new mishap, ran to see this fair maid who was in a trance, and so did the rest. "Abide, sirs," said one of the young men, "and mark well what we will say unto you. This knight and I have agreed to fight for the possession of this sick damsel, whom there you see, and death only can give sentence in favour of one or the other, neither is any other way to compound our quarrel, unless of her own will she choose one of us two whom she likes best to be her husband. By this means she may sheath our swords, and quiet our minds. "That which we require at your hands, is, not to hinder our combat, which we could accomplish without impeachment of any person if we desired not some to look on to witness our proceedings. If it be possible in this desolate place to find any help to prolong the life of this damsel, who hath such power to conclude ours, we pray you to succour her. The haste constraining us to determine our difference permitteth us not at this present to enquire who you are, nor how you came hither with so small means to get hence from so solitary an island, where not so much as any living creature doth inhabit." Instantly they laid hand on their swords, not staying till the gentlewoman for whom they fought had declared her will as touching the choice she would make, referring their quarrel rather to the arbitrement of arms than the desire of their mistress. They encountered one another with rage and violence, without observing art or measure: and with the two first blows, one of them had his heart thrust through and through and the other, his head cloven in the midst. To this last the heaven afforded so much life as to come to his lady, and to say, in joining his face to hers, "I have prevailed, my fair, you are mine: and although the good of possessing you shall abide with me but a very small time: yet, to think only that you have been mine but a moment, maketh me the most happy man that ever was. Receive, Madame, this soul, and these last sighs which I send unto you: give them some place in your heart neither ask leave of your honesty, for the name of a wife affordeth you no less." The blood of his wound bathed the gentlewoman's face, who was so far without sense that she answered not a word. The two mariners that had guided the ship's skiff took the dead man, and him that was hurt, who had closed his mouth to his spouse's, bought at so dear a rate; and therewithal sent his soul into the air, and his body fell dead to the earth. Auristela, that had contemplated all these actions before she had attentively beheld this gentlewoman's face, came nearer: and making it clean from the blood of the dead lover, she found that it was her damsel Taurisa, whom Arnaldo said he had delivered to two knights to be conducted into Ireland. Auristela became astonished, forlorn, and sadder than sadness itself, and much more when she knew that the fair Taurisa was dead. "Alas," said she then, "with what prodigious tokens the heavens will make me know my misfortune! which I might call happy if it might be concluded with my life. But seeing to complain will here nothing avail, let us bestow the time which we owe them in pity: and that we may no longer afflict the living, let us bury the dead." With that she entreated Maurice to take order with the mariners, to return to ship and fetch tools for their burial: which they did, and Maurice himself went with them to agree with the pilot for the means to take them out of the isle, into some other part whither he was purposed to go. In the mean time Auristela and Transilla had leisure to fit Taurisa for her grave. Maurice returned with necessary instruments: Taurisa was buried, but the mariners would not do so much for those which were slain in this combat. Rosamond, who since she had declared to the barbarian Anthony her amorous thoughts durst not lift up her eyes from the ground where shame had fixed them, then said, lifting up her head whilst Taurisa was a-burying: "If you make such estimation of charity, and that your hearts be equally possessed of justice and mercy, employ, good people, these two virtues on my behalf. Since the first time I had any use of reason, I have always been unreasonable and wicked, that in the flower of mine age, and in my prime of beauty, vices have gained such possession in me that they are as it were inseparable accidents. You know already that I have set my foot on the necks of kings and, as it were, led by the hand the wills of all men whithersoever I pleased. But time, the thief of women's frail beauties, hath robbed mine so unawares that I have seen myself deformed before I was reformed. But because vices are seated in the soul that never groweth old, they would not forsake me. And like as I gave over myself to follow the stream of my pleasures without resisting them, so I have entirely yielded myself to that delight which the view of this young barbarian afforded me, whose frozen affection answereth not mine that is all on fire. I see I am despised and hated instead of being beloved and cherished: which blows none can suffer with little patience, and much desire. Death already walketh on my gown skirts, and stretcheth forth his hand to take away my life. I beseech you, out of your good and courteous nature, to cover my fire with this snow, and enclose me in this tomb: for albeit you intermeddle my wanton ashes with the chaste bones of this virgin, they shall not be polluted thereby, because good relics are always good in what place so ever they be. And thou that art so arrogant," said she,turning towards the young Anthony, "which now touchest the brink of thy delights, pray heaven to guide thee in such sort, that a beauty withered by long age may never tempt thee. And if my words have offended thine ears, forgive me: for such as ask pardon in this distress, deserve, if not to be pardoned, yet at least to be heard." And with these last words, giving a great sigh, she fell in a trance. CHAPTER XXI. The burial of Taurisa, Auristela's damsel. "I know not then," said Maurice, "what he that is called Love hath to do in these deserts and cliffs covered with ice and snow, forsaking the fields of Cyprus, Paphos and Gnidus, from whence famine flieth away, and where no discommodity ever cometh, considering he hath no delightful abiding-place in afflictions and tears, but in a quiet and contented mind." Auristela, Transilla, Ricla and Constance were astonished at this new accident, and having brought Rosamond out of her trance, all of them went into the ship's skiff, where they were well used and supplied with all things necessary to satisfy their extreme hunger, Rosamond only excepted, who every moment longed after death. They hoisted sail and some of them lamented for the two dead captains, and chose only one in their place, proceeding on their way not knowing whither they went, because they were pirates, and not Irishmen as they had informed the Prince of Denmark. Maurice, disliking the company of these pirates, always feared some unhappy blow to arise from their wicked custom and course of life. And as he that was old, and experimented in worldly affairs, he perceived that the beauty of Auristela, the bravery of Transilla and the new head-attire of Constance would awake in them some wicked and wanton thoughts, wherefore he served to them as an Argus, and young Anthony was employed in their behalf as the shepherd of Amphrisius. Rosamond, continuing as one weary of life, came to be weakened in such sort that one night they found her in a chamber buried in perpetual silence. They had wept enough before, but yet had a feeling of her death with christian compassion. The sea was her sepulchre, where she found not water sufficient to quench the fire which young Anthony had kindled in her heart. All of them oftentimes entreated the pirates to carry them into Ireland or Scotland, if they would not go for England. But they answered that, until they had taken a good and rich prize, they would not anchor upon any coast, but only to water and take in victuals. The barbarian Ricla would gladly have bought her contentment to be in England with fair pieces of gold, but she durst not bewray them, lest they should take them away without asking. The captain gave them a chamber apart, and made such convenable provision for them that he assured them from the outrage of the soldiers, which they might stand in fear of. In this manner they sailed on the sea three months, striking sail sometimes at one isle, sometimes at another, after the manner of pirates: during which time the new captain of the ship went oftentimes into his passengers' chamber, to entertain them with honest and friendly conference, especially Maurice. For Auristela, Transilla, Ricla and Constance were more busy in thinking on their friends' absence than to give the captain or Maurice any time of hearing. Yet one day they gave attentive ear to a story which the captain told them, which you shall see in another chapter. CHAPTER XXII. Where the captain told the festival which King Policarpus was accustomed to make in his realm. "The heaven allotted for my country one of those isles that adjoin on Ireland, being so great that it beareth the name of a realm, and is not possessed by succession from the father to the son, or by inheritance, but by election of the inhabitants, who always choose the best and most virtuous of the isle. By which means, they which are not kings strive to be virtuous that they may attain that honour; and those that reign endeavour to surmount others in virtue, that they may be worthy to rule over them. "Herewithal they cut the wings of ambition, punish covetousness, unmask hypocrisy, the people live in peace, Justice thundereth, Mercy lighteneth, poor people have not their suits prolonged because they are poor; nor those of the rich the sooner dispatched because they are wealthy. Gifts, nor favours, can bend the straight wand of Justice. Finally, this is a kingdom where all men live, all men enjoy their own, without fear of oppressors and such as would insult over them. "This custom, so holy and just in mine opinion, put the sceptre into the hands of Policarpus, a man famous and notable both for arms and learning. Before he was made king he had two daughters of surpassing beauty, the elder called Policarpa, and the younger, Synforosa. These kings, thinking that melancholy awaketh evil thoughts in their subjects' minds, are curious to make them merry by public feasts, and sometimes by comedies; but above all things they solemnise the day of their coronation, by renewing the Olympian games in the best manner they can. They give a reward to him that is the best at running: honour the most valiant and active at his weapon: crown the best archer: and by their praises advance to heaven him that in wrestling throws others to the earth. These pastimes are performed on the seashore in a large bay, where an infinite number of boughs are set which take away the sunbeams and make a shadow. They erect a sumptuous theatre, in the midst whereof the king and his royal family behold the sports. When one of these days came, Policarpus resolved to solemnise the same with greater magnificence than any of his predecessors. And even then when his person was placed on the theatre, in company of the greatest peers of the realm, when the instruments of war and peace had given the token to begin, and four nimble runners were now loosed, holding their left foot foremost and the right in the air to begin the race, they saw a pinnace come by sea, which had the sides white because it was newly caulked, and was assisted by six oars on a side to divide the water, which were managed by twelve brave men, having broad shoulders and their arms well-sinewed. They were all clothed in white, except he which guided the helm, whose apparel was carnation. The pinnace came violently to the shore: and to see the same strike the ground, and all those that were therein to leap a-land, was but one and the same thing. "Policarpus commanded that they should not attempt anything in the career before he had known what people they were, and the end of their coming; albeit he imagined they came to the feast, to prove themselves in his pastimes. The first which came forward to speak to the king was he which governed the helm: a young man of small age, whose smooth cheeks without hair seemed to be of snow and scarlet; the locks of his head like jewels of gold; and each part of his face so perfect, and all of them together so fair, that they made an admirable composition. His personage immediately struck the eyes and pierced the hearts of as many as beheld him, and procured them to love him with most hearty affection. He said to the king: 'My lord, my companions and I having heard your pastimes proclaimed, are come hither to serve you in the same, not from far countries, but from a ship hard by, which we left in the isle of Scynta. We are all gentlemen desirous of honour, and beseech you, by the favour which as a king you afford unto strangers, to permit us that we may here show our strengths and valour, to increase our renown and your delight.' 'Certainly,' answered Policarpus, 'you propound your requests in such a brave and comely manner that it should be injustice to deny you. Honour my feast according to your own desire, and myself will undertake the charge to acknowledge and reward your deserts: for according to your countenance you leave small hope to any person to win the first prizes.' He bent his knee, and bowed his head in sign of reverence and thanks: and at two leaps he came to the rope which served as a barrier to the four prepared to run, as was before mentioned. His companions withdrew themselves aside, to behold the race. "The trumpets sounded, the rope was lifted up, and all five began their course with great swiftness. But they had not run twenty paces, but he that came last had gotten before them above six; and at thirty, more than fifteen. "Finally, at a little less than half the way, he left them as images without motion, to the great admiration of everyone, chiefly of the young Synforosa, whose eyes were bent after, as well when he ran as when he stood still: for the agility and beauty of this young runner were such that they drew after them both the eyes and liking of all the lookers-on. I marked this, for that I was intentive to behold Policarpa, the sweet object of my desires: and in passing I beheld the motions of Synforosa. Envy presently began to possess the hearts of those that should prove themselves in these games, perceiving with how great facility the stranger had gained the prize of running. "The second combat was at fencing. He which had won the former, took a back sword to debate the second: on which he warded an infinite number of blows, and gave as many hurts on the head, arms and the whole body of six that proved themselves against him one after the other, without being touched by any of them, so much as on one hair of his apparel. The people shouted and with common consent gave him the chief prize. Six others immediately prepared themselves to wrestle: wherein the young conqueror was more gallant than before, showing his broad shoulders, his high breast and his sinewed arms, whereby with an incredible force and nimbleness he made six men of great strength take measure of their bodies in the sand. "And because the fourth combat next was to throw the bar, he took a great and heavy one that was pitched in the ground, and holding it by one end he threw it with such violence that, passing the sea brink, it flew and fell a good way into the sea, and there sunk to the bottom. This prodigious force astonished the courage of his opposites, who durst not adventure, having seen so much, to try themselves what they could do. "Then they brought crossbows and arrows: there was a tall and straight tree on whose top was placed an half pike, and thereupon a dove tied with a string, which served for their mark to aim at. Each man that should try his cunning must shoot but once: and one of them thinking to prevent the rest, shot first, and hit the very end of the lance, which made the dove for fear to flicker in the air. Presently another, no less presumptuous, shot the second arrow with so great dexterity that he cut asunder the thread wherewith the dove was tied: which, perceiving herself at liberty, divided the air, shaking her wings with incredible swiftness. Then he which had won the other prizes shot his arrow: and as though he had commanded the same what to do, and as if it had understanding to obey him, it passed through the dove's heart, making her at the same time to lose both flying and life. "Herewith the people reiterated their exclamation and praises of this stranger who, in running, fencing, wrestling, casting the bar, and shooting in the crossbow, and divers other trials whereof I speak not, had carried away the prize with wonderful advantage above the others. "These pastimes were finished with the day, and when King Policarpus would arise from his seat with the judges who assisted him, to reward the conqueror, he was before him on his knees, and spake in this manner. "'My gracious lord, our ship is left alone, the night begins to grow dark; the reward which I expect at your hands ought to be esteemed above all other things: but I beseech you defer it unto another time, wherein I hope with more leisure and means to return and yield you service.' The king embraced him, asking his name: he told him he was called Periander. The fair Synforosa, taking from her head a fair garland of flowers, put it on the conqueror's and in placing it, spake thus unto him with an admirable good grace. 'When the king my father shall be so happy as to see you again, you shall find that you shall not return to serve, but to be served.'" CHAPTER XXIII. Of that which happened to the jealous Auristela when she knew that Periander was he that gained the prizes in the combats of Policarpus. O powerful force of jealousy! which art an infirmity so united to the soul that it is impossible to put it away but with losing of the life. Fair Auristela, cast not down thy self, harbouring in thy soul such a mad rage. But who can retain the thoughts which are so light and subtle, that they not only pass over walls, but through the hearts, and see whatsoever is concealed in our souls? I have spoken thus much, because Auristela no sooner heard mention of Periander's name and the praises of Synforosa, with the favour done unto him in giving him her garland, but that she made herself a prey to jealousy, and with a great sigh, said thus in embracing Transilla: "Would to God, my dear friend, that, thy husband saved, Periander had been cast away. Seest thou not by the words of this captain how he is honoured as a valorous conqueror, and that he hath more mind unto a gentlewoman's favour than to take such care as the turmoils and banishments of his sister should move him unto? Must he search after crowns and trophies of victory in strange countries, and forsake amidst the steep mountains and rocks of the angry sea, this his sister? who, by his counsel and for his pleasure, hath refused no mortal danger, whereunto she hath not exposed herself?" The captain of the ship attentively gave ear to these words, and knew not what meaning to collect thereof, when such a sudden and stiff wind arose that he suddenly left Auristela and her company, calling to the mariners to strike sail. Everyone ran to his charge. Maurice and his associates returned into their private rooms, leaving the mariners to execute their office. Transilla then demanded what disturbance she could have in hearing Periander's name? For she could not conceive how any grief or trouble could ensue from the praises and happy adventures of her brother. "O my friend," answered Auristela, "I am so much obliged to conceal the pilgrimage which I make that constraint enforceth me to be silent until it come to an end, though my life's date should sooner happen. Knowing who I am, which you shall know, if God please, you shall see the just occasion of my tears; and in understanding their original, you will pardon me for being touched at the heart. You perceive the bond of a brother's parentage; but I assure you that there is a greater betwixt Periander and me: and because it is the property of lovers to be jealous, no marvel if I be so on my brother's behalf." "Consider," answered Transilla, "that whatsoever the captain hath related was brought to pass before his imprisonment in the barbarian island and that, since you saw each other, and conferred together, you might have found that he is not in love with any other person, neither takes care about anything else but to please you: albeit I cannot conceive how the forces of jealousy can predominate over the affections of brothers and sisters." "Observe this, daughter," said Maurice, "that the conditions of love, together with his variable and divers laws, are no less unjust than disagreeing; and I would have thee strive to be so discreet, that thou dive not into another's thoughts, nor seek to know any more than they are willing to tell thee. One may have piercing and sharp curiosity in his own, but not in another man's affairs." These words of Maurice were an occasion that Auristela stayed her speech, which the words of Transilla had brought in the way to utter her whole history. The wind grew calm, without having much disturbed them: the captain returned to make an end of his discourse, because he was in some care for the trouble befallen Auristela in hearing Periander named. Auristela was desirous to bring the captain forward in the relation formerly intermitted, and to know if the favours of Synforosa done to Periander had proceeded any further than to crown him: which she in faint manner required of him, that she might not bewray what was in her thought. Whereunto he answered that she had no means to perform anything else; but that since his departure, whensoever she spake of the graces of Periander, she exalted them to heaven, and that she had given in charge a ship should be rigged to find him out, and bring him back unto the king her father's Court. "How is it possible," said Auristela, "that great ladies, and kings' daughters, advanced on the throne of Fortune, should humble themselves to place their thoughts in such base subjects? And if it be true that greatness and majesty be repugnant unto Love, it followeth that Synforosa should not suffer herself to be led captive upon the view of an unknown youth, whose estate cannot be great, seeing himself did but guide the helm of a pinnace, and had only twelve naked men in his company, as ordinarily those are that row." "Marvel you not hereat," said Maurice, "for in all other actions of nature, so great and continual miracles are not seen, as in those of love: which because they are so many, are nothing spoken of, nor ought anything astonish you, be they never so great. Love joineth sceptres with sheephooks, greatness with abasement; equalizeth different estates, and maketh possible that which seemeth impossible. You know, daughter, the honesty, valour and merit of Periander: which parts form a composition of singular beauty. And this privilege beauty hath: to rob the wills and draw the hearts of all such as know it. And the more beauty is great and known, the more it is loved and esteemed. Wherefore, no marvel if Synforosa love your brother, though she be a great and excellent princess: because she loveth him not as Periander, but as fair, as valiant, as expert, and as a subject wherein all virtues are contained and collected in one." "What," said the captain, "is Periander this lady's brother?" "Yea," answered Transilla, "for whose absence she liveth in perpetual sadness, and we all, which love and know her brother, in plaints and bitterness of anguish." Then they declared unto him the wrack of Arnaldo's ship, the separation of the skiff from the pinnace, even unto the estate wherein they were. And herewith the author of this history endeth the first book, and passeth to the second; wherein shall be told such things, which although they exceed not the truth, yet they surmount the imagination, in that the greatest and subtlest conceit cannot comprehend their accidents. The end of the first book of the travels of Persiles and Sigismunda.