University of Virginia Library

That time of Year when th' Earth grand Parent shews;
Doth beauties choice, new flaunting Brood disclose:
When paints her Cheek, with Gems adorn'd (as 'twere)
Imbroidered Garb; may Curtisan appear:
Whilst, more advanc'd, the Sun with wanton eye,
Much fonder ray doth Court her from the Sky,
Smiling in Beams: when spruce-drest Groves abound;
Thro chirping Consorts noise withal resound,
Sweet Songs of joy: Heaven chearful, pleas'd survay'd;
Cloud-masks discharg'd, bright, azure Face display'd,
Dropt pearly Dews; then free from Congelation;
The World restor'd since former Youth's privation.
No sooner had the Lady Morn in state,
Usher'd by Star, walk'd forth her Eastern gate;
From glorious Couch Rose-spread to take the air,
That still might seem with blushing Cheeks more fair;
Scatt'ring her Dew like Crystal Pendents round,
As Favours to adorn the fruitful Ground:
But straight beheld on large Ortesian Plain
(Prime Rendezvouz) great store o'th Pastor-train,
Choicest

Arcadia famous for Shepherds.

Arcadian youth, most active Men,
Each walking from their Country-grange as then.
Young Females (last) conjoyn'd, that gaudy Day
Quick, early Risers too, but mirthful Play
Was their chief end, supreme; and more to grace
Pan's Festival, stil'd God of Sheep, that Place,
Each Shepherdess shew'd trim'd and beautifi'd
With handsom Garb; careless, neglected Pride;
Nice, formal freaks of Art could shun, forbear,
Tho flaunting too: good skins and Features there:
As Nature thought to th' World it should be known,
She was not ti'd to gorgeous Courts alone.
Let it suffice, some had the name of Fair,
Might Princes please: Young Pastors too did share
For manlike Form, ingenuous Parts combin'd:
Tho Shepherds call'd not prov'd of servile kind
(Since kept their Own or Fathers Flocks) but there,
Like Graziers now, gentiler Stamp did bear.
These searching for their several Loves with joy
O'rerang'd the cheerful Vale: when those less Coy,
Soft, gentler Hearts somtimes, by purpos'd chance
Like Willing Strays (mistook for Ignorance)
Soon found out them: met both did freely prove
What sports, delight Conceit with harmless Love
Could best commend, repasts of Youthful pleasure;
Songs chanted, walk'd, or danc'd in Country measure;
Green banks like Plush bespread, with Flow'rs each where,
(As heaven with Stars) begem'd, embroider'd there.
But Fame's record, amongst the rural Train,
Does one advance as Glory of that Plain;
Their Prince esteem'd, whose gallant Form excell'd,
Orsamnes call'd: pronounc'd unparallel'd.
Clearest brown Cheek: his bright, triumphant Eyes
Born conquerours, fair Virgin-troop their Prize;
Such lovely flames and Manlike both survay'd:
Seem'd court-bred Star: well-mounted Brow displai'd.
Each feature, part conjoin'd choice Ornament;
Narcissus might, Endimion represent.
His large, spread Locks in many a gallant Curl
Shew'd sportive Wantons there, like trembling Purl
O'th' shoulders danc'd when mov'd, whom wand'ring Wind
Did dandle oft like Playfellow, untwin'd;
Whilst Nimphs their Sighs did breath, enamour'd train;
Heart-gives they seem'd those Gazers to enchain;
Howe're Himself less then dispos'd to Love:
For body's form did rarely builded prove.
Transcendent Mind, adorn'd with noblest Parts:
Choice Virtue too advanc'd his grand deserts.
Age twenty one: whose certain Birth we shall
E're long declare, Breeding conjoin'd withal.
Spruce Hat he wore, th' height, breadth indiff'rent Crown'd,
Green Taffaty; neat-folded Wreath went round
Made of the same: for Garments too excell'd;
Suit, Coat green Taffaty, clasp'd down beheld
With silver Plates, o'th' brest and sides, behind;
Long, branched form; with choice Aurora lin'd.
Short Buskins (last) for color, Stuff compli'd,
With ribbond-knots of fair Aurora ti'd,
Such prov'd the Youth: whilst most o'th' Pastor-train
In Rural way their minds did entertain,
With Games and sports, Himself (reserved brest
Of late howere) that time beyond the rest
Contemplative, (through weightier Cause (which we
Shall name ere long) dispos'd for privacy;
Walk'd farther off towards delightful Vale,
From whence did blow fine, gentler-breathed Gale,
To calm his thoughts; then view the lovely Spring;
Found Cordial-ease whilst Birds in quires do sing.
'Twas May's first Day; whose Flower'd beauty appear'd
That time beyond young Female ones prefer'd,
Cheeks, lips and eyes; that Champain dress beheld,
Through sober glance sad Clouds in part dispell'd.
Drawn further on to th' Vale at last, one while
His silver'd Bow's imploi'd then; to beguile
Slow Morning-hours, Philosophy, choice Book
Maintain'd discourse by Crystal-streamed Brook:
Till solemn Thoughts return, rais'd (last) again,
Did softly tread that flow'r-imbroider'd Plain:
Earth smiling round (as 'twere) upon the Skies,
As Heav'n on earth; for Cheek Serene complies.
By this the All-surrounding Sun with hast
(Swift, fiery Steeds) Day's Morning-Stage o're-pass'd;
No need of drenching them, nor Southern Bait
Took for himself drives on his Chariot strait.
Orsamnes when, being still dispos'd to rove,
Cast pleased glance upon the walled Grove;
Don two miles walk, Noon's heat offensive found;
Whilst That appear'd on gentler rising ground,
Spring's gallant Plumes; by Pastors talk excelling;
Like Fortress fair Sun's beamy Darts repelling:
At hand besides, yet nere by him survai'd;
Strong Fancy draws to view that branched Shade:
March'd further on to th' Gate, from whence he might,
If open found, have clearer Glancing Sight.
'Twas walled round; near that close Gate within
Stood Porter's lodg: Porter himself had been
Rambling that Morn to th' Ale-house standing nigh,
Whence drunk return'd; so, entring there (none by)
The Wicket left unlock'd (nor strange, forgot)
Well clos'd, no more, like fudled, drowsy Sot
Roul'd on his bed; whilst kennel'd Dog did keep
Bad watch withal (chain'd up by day) asleep.
Orsamnes seeing clear way, the Lodg-door clos'd,
None to debar, strong, fair Excuse suppos'd,
He step'd within, us'd wary feet and Eyes,
Thoughts to retreat ere Rangers glance surprize:
First Prospect on't far more encouraging,
It seem'd prime Bow'r, Plantation for the Spring.
The Form was thus: 'Twas cut out round by Art;
Some Mossy Roads, more large, from th' walled Part
(Free Shade from beams, Tops something open tho)
Did streit as lines directly point and go
To th' middle Ground, where handsom Habitation;
The Rest, more narrow Walks in circle fashion
Did wind about, grand Theatre beheld;
Close tops like Arch, by growth not least compell'd:
Thick, thinner Trees between, tho here and there
Small spaces found might Garden-plots appear,
Worn Flower'd dress. Orsamnes view'd, approv'd
That branched Maze; whilst Silvan Songsters, mov'd
To gen'ral chanting joy, their Chorus sing;
That Princess-month like Servants welcoming.
Birds pleas'd and Shades, which gave conjoined shroud;
Kind skreen withal 'gainst beams of Noon allow'd;
Shun'd streight Road from the Gate (with wary glance)
For th' planted part, where he might best advance,
Cross'd winding walks, march'd further on conceal'd,
Till came to th' midst, small dainti'st Green beheld;
Cut Orb-like round, where purling Riv'let stray'd,
Did seem to dance through small carv'd Channel made
To view the Spring; two foot for breadth bestow'd;
Whose Crystal stream Gold-sands (as 'twere o'reflow'd,
Mixt gaudiest colour'd Shells, by Art design'd:
In midst of all neat-formed Mansion shin'd.
Thin Trees dispers'd like Tufts adorn'd the place;
Some Park-stands, bow'rs conjoin'd Prospective grace.
Orsamnes now, least caus'd perchance offence
By curious mood, through Shades retir'd from thence;
Way trod before, towards th' unguarded Gate,
Refreshment found by what beheld of late:
When from that part most soft and gentle Noise
Stole to his Ear, whether 'twas Humane Voice,
Which talked, sung, complain'd, or what not knowing;
Till nearer drawn prov'd chearful Sound, sweet growing;
Well chanted Song for pleasure, brought thus far,
And dandled by the pleas'd, delighted Air,
Since loth to loose. His mind could not dispense,
For turning back, if sidewaies rang'd from thence
Much wanderer; those streight broad Roads were fear'd;
This sculking way most free, reserv'd appear'd.
'Twas stronger now, seem'd choicely rare, surpassing;
Hast bad conciev'd, thus, gentler forwards tracing,
(To smallest Noise) he marched by that ground,
Close larger Plot with Hedg encompass'd round;
Where lurking Shades would stragler's glance repel,
Some longer stay might be adventur'd well.
Prime Musick 'twas of Lute and Voice compos'd;
Orsamnes there, with bord'ring Parts inclos'd,
More to regard (befriended by that Shade)
Each other Sense to th' Hearing servant made.
Those nimble Birds which mov'd about that Bow'r,
Inspir'd appear'd through her Harmonious pow'r;
Lute, charming Voice: Leaves danc'd, when smaller pause
(Wind-shaken oft) shew'd gentle Claps, applause.
Those chirping Songsters seem'd as mute and dumb,
Sat pearch'd as 'twere her Scholars then become.
Last words o'th' Song were these,
This World abounds in Care and Strife,
Best suits my Thoughts the Virgin-life.
By which Orsamnes plainly did conclude
She was a Maid, or th' Tongue did much delude,
Air lastly upon the Lute, in which her Hand
Did nimbler way, more sweet the strings command;
Both ended thus, Birds seem'd to practise round
In thankful Song, whilst from well-shaded Ground,
Orsamnes heard, applauds; choice female Art:
Found now more ling'ring thoughts, loth to Depart.
Good mind he had to see that place inclos'd,
Then view those Lips, those Hands which form'd compos'd,
These warbled sounds, if might be termed Fair,
Whose Voice and Touch proclaim'd themselves so rare:
Then would be gone. Thus rouz'd, with gentle paces
He stalk'd about that Hedg, through se'vral places
Sight strove to dart, till found reserved Dore;
Not lock'd, forgot; one Person saw, no more.
Transcendent Form, in midst of all descri'd,
Prime Excellence, by none on Earth outvi'd:
Sweet lovely Face to that might Cheap appear,
So rich in Beauty shew'd; conjoined there
Her Body's daintiest Shape, exact Compound;
Task for all Pens; whose praises to resound,
Fame's trumpet Breath might want; the Sight would move
Proud Kings themselves (perchance) to fall in Love.
Fond Suitors turn'd; much more inferiour Men
To view, Admire: conceiv'd small marvel then,
Orsamnes tho, upon that Gazing score
Imploi'd his Eyes, as hearkning Ears before.
A Virgin 'twas as did by th' Song appear;
Clermanthe nam'd, tho call'd Parmena there;
Who midst the heat, by chance withdrawn descended
To th' Bathing Fount; there (Song with Musick ended,
Thence manly Spies debar'd) to th' foot at last
Unclouds her beauteous World, which seem'd to cast
New Beams upon that gloomy place as tho
Bright second Morn were breaking from below,
More choicely Fair: or perl-skin'd Nimph reveal'd,
Some feigned Lady o'th' Water then beheld.
Upon the Bank fine Sattin Mantle lay
(Sky-colour'd) spread, did Silver knots display:
Silk under-robe or Petticoat beside,
Green like the Spring, Hood, Sandalls there descri'd.
The Fount was large, Long-square; for art excell'd:
Ore th' midst half way, by Pillars strength upheld,
Square carved Frame; left open either side:
On th' top sate

God o'th' Sea

Neptune crown'd (Triumphant pride)
In Chariot drawn; Sea-horses form presented
(All done with paint and Gold) which Water vented,
Dropt through their Mouths, part froth, like Foam below
Champing the Bit. Beneath there seem'd to flow
High swelling Sea, and at four Corners made
Curl'd

Meaner Sea-Gods.

Triton's shape which Trumps did use displai'd,
On Dolphin backs advanc'd; whence Waters fall
Like sportful Streams, through th' Fishes mouths withall.
View'd Fount it self, at either distant End
Wild, carved Rocks did near to th' bank ascend:

Goddess of Wood.

Diana nak'd sate bathing there on one,
Coy Nymphs behind; Acteon farthest shewn,
Whose branched Crest speaks bold presumptuous prying:
Near th' other Rock, their hands with Harps complying,
Mermaids beheld; and partly above the Stream
Fish-heads appeared from Craggy sides of them:
Through Engins too dispers'd thir Water-Show'r,
Squeez'd from both Tops like Arched Crystal-bow'r,
Quite o're those Nymphs beneath, small Rail the place
Encompassed, where, rang'd with painted grace
Stood carved Beasts like rampant Guard to th' Fount,
View'd o're against (near th' hedg) Prospective Mount;
Whose stairs with gilded Rails shew'd beautifi'd,
Where perching (last) prime-colour'd Fowls descri'd.
Who look'd upon the Place but glancing fashion,
Might think he saw some small, New-coin'd Creation,
Fish, Birds and Beasts; Clermanthe Goddess there
(Bathing below) to th' Fancy's eye appear.
Whose beauties now with sob'rer Smile, and then
More serious thoughts Orsamnes view'd ag'en.
Orsamnes lov'd, never before till now
That taking way (such Form, so beauteous too)
Did Woman contemplate; pierc'd through the Eyes:
Th' unlook'd-for Chance might more withal surprize.
Strong, secret Charm like Plant still there detain'd,
Porter forgot, past Griefs, Love primely raign'd
Nere Woman thought worthy of Sigh, or Passion,
Till view'd that Princess, Queen of the Creation;
In whose fair Eyes bright troop of Masquers shin'd,
Virtues did seem with Beauties there combin'd.
That Man crown'd Fortune's Favorite confest,
By whom this Pearl, conjugal Gem possest.
Her costly Cloaths upon the ground, beside
Rich Jewels worn chief rank Gentile imply'd:
Whose worth although conceiv'd Transcendent, rare;
Why should his Person, Parts, Birth join'd despair?
Her Song's last Words howere, as prov'd inclin'd
To th' Virgin-life, least fixed Cours, design'd,
Bred qualmish thoughts; made solemn Vow, if so,
(Bent to observe) he then might seem to Woo
Some marble Statue's shape, there Suitor be;
Or Court the Northern Ice, as melting, free;
Deaf Winds and Wave, coy Light'ning grasp, infold:
But those faint Thoughts by stronger were control'd.
Thus, he resolv'd his Mind to break, discover,
Nor lose the Man whilst shew'd the fervent Lover.
Mus'd straight withal how near Approach to gain,
Some Parley, speech, join'd Kiss-salute obtain.
When from that Place sad Damping cause appear'd,
(Nice, hardest Task) left strange Surprisal fear'd,
Some Lust-design, she should scriek out, exclaim
Ere he could Speak; destroy'd that courting Aim.
Found Naked (next) would move, incense far more,
Thus view'd, beheld: if waited there at dore,
She might whole Hours (perchance) in Bathing spend,
Till Scouts betray'd; so lost desired End:
What posture best, what Words to settle, please
(If should come forth) her Troubled thoughts, Appaise,
How t'order all: he first imploy'd his Brain
To drive her from that Fount, till Cloath'd again.
Thus softly trod to th' Fenced part Behind,
Nearest to her, where shak'd (as had design'd)
Those Branches, Leaves; as some had faln by chance
Against the Hedg, no view nor naked glance:
When Noise o'reheard, like one from th' Fount below
Trampling the Bank, Cloaths rus'led to and fro:
Which proving well, to th' Door he strait did trace
(One side thereof) as newly reach'd that Place:
Where heard Silk garment mov'd, Feet tread the Grass:
By th' Hedg conjoin'd to th' Entrance nimbly pass.
Which Noise her Self conceiv'd, good Omen thought,
As Fortune there by gentle Hand had brought;
Did with his Plot like Patroness combine:
So (drawn most near) prepar'd for's Love-design.
'Twas she indeed; for, rus'ling Noise o'reheard
Through shaken Leaves, conjoined Hem had scar'd;
Thick Trees behind; no Men approaching there
(But one i'th' House) imploi'd Maid-servants were.
Thus then (sad Virgin-thoughts) it seem'd a Stranger,
Slunk into th' Grove unmark'd; some Lustful Ranger
Might naked view, watch closely at Door withal;
When she forsook the Fount surprize, enthral;
Door left unlock'd by chance, remember'd then:
She long'd therefore till 'twas made fast agen
So, hurl'd to th'bank; Smock on, silk Petticoat,
Short upper Robe, fine Mantle near forgot,
To th' entrance strait she ran, where (much more bold)
Might lock the Door, or Persons face behold:
But then hard Task increas'd Clermanthe's doubt,
Door opening from the Green, Key left without.
While stepping forth, Orsamnes bowing the knee
Almost to th' ground, seiz'd on immediately
That Door witheld (when coy, strange Start she made:
Fear, wonder joyn'd) thus Blaz'd his thoughts and said.
Transcendent Star, which beauty's Queen dost shine
(As of this Grove) whilst Each their Crowns resign
And bow to Thee, th' Imperial excellence;
Pardon this Bolder Act, and leave dispense
That I may kiss your Hand: next Thanks declare
For my Repast; those Musick-strains most Rare,
Like th' Author's self. Clermanthe then had grown
Much frighted, Scar'd, withal Disdainful shewn,
But that she saw her Young Surprizer there
I'th' lowlyest way; small grounds for Rape appear:
Mild gentle Brow, well civillized Tongue;
That Silken Garb should to none Base belong:
For Person (last) excell'd, Prime Male perfection;
Lik'd all, approv'd, tho free from Love-reflexion.
Thus, bashful Glance, still prone to Virgin-fear,
She joyn'd reply: Pray Sir, withdraw, Forbear
That stop, Restraint; like Stranger to this Grove,
As unto Me; tho chance thus far to Rove
Through kept, well Guarded Gate: Kissing my Hand
Seems vain Desire; where Lonely grounds Command
Bad Thoughts may cause: Too formal Thanks exprest,
Such Musick prov'd; my own Reserved Brest.
'Twas meant withal to Please. Orsamnes then,
Joyn'd humble Bow, this Answer fram'd ag'en.
Fairest, believe, nothing thought dangerous
Shall hence proceed, tho Door surprized thus;
I'l Honour boast, 'twas done from sober Mind;
Chast like your Own, for virtuous Love inclin'd.
My Entrance (next) with Ranging Walk thus far
Excuse may plead, None there to stop, debar.
For th' Musick, Voice, if not given thanks to You,
I shall thank Fortune for't, Sight Lovely'st too.
Person conjoyn'd; Both Prais'd, advanc'd howere.
Prime, dainty'st Blush, Clermanthe answer'd there.
Since then the First you Heard, the last Beheld;
This Grove survey'd withall (scarce paralell'd)
Pray, Sir, withdraw; shewn Civil way retire:
Your Self commended so. Sad harsh Desire,
Orsamnes thought, those words by Her exprest
Departing Doom; breath'd from so noble Brest,
With milder Terms soft Voice allay'd, the more
His Heart through Love inflam'd, Captiv'd before.
He thus reply'd: Sweet'st Madam still conclude,
My Carriage shall be far from Wanton, Rude;
Unsoyled prove; your Favor sought from thence;
Still kept, observ'd those Bounds of Reverence:
And yet defer that late condemning Voice
Of leaving you so soon; thought Fairer Choice
Sentence of Death Clermanthe setled now,
More quiet thoughts, thus spake with gentle brow
I cannot, Sir, yet charge You (I confess)
With any Act, the least Unworthyness:
But you must know I here live close, conceal'd,
Hid from the World (the cause not now reveal'd)
Mind (next) Contemplative; here, lastly do
But sojourn late, may be Observ'd with You:
Wanton Compliance thought: when roul'd about
Her full black Eyes (each choice resplendent Scout)
Before and on the sides tho partly Fear
Their Beams might them betray: Bird flutt'ring there,
Next, babling Leaves oreheard, with wand'ring Blast.
Orsamnes when; Be those Nice Thoughts orepast
(Madam) I pray, such jealous Clouds dispel;
Your Honor shall be vindicated well
By Me whatere: that Fault mine own be told;
And let me joyn short Lovers Suit, unfold.
'Tis Love, I grant, tho may withal protest,
Conjugal Flames do warm this faithful Brest:
And if thought Crime to Love, what Heroes (found
In choice Records) Offenders are renown'd.
Heav'n Love commends, Applauds, since chearful This
The Creatures Joy, and Conservation is:
World's grand supporting prop, large Spheres infold
Each other there; Vines th' Elm conjoyned hold:
Bright Sun does court the Earth in smiling Rays,
Till that her Fruit and Flowry Brood displays;
As tho were meant for Amorous, design'd
Examples both of Love to Human kind.
Your own Cheeks, Lips and Eyes such Charmers proving,
Chide pow'rful Those, but blame not Me for Loving.
Beg'd Kiss-salute; Clemanthe's Cheeks display
Large blushing Tide, when heard that Rising way
From th' hand to Lips; tho strait call'd back ag'en
Each crimson Stream, new Thoughts perplexed then,
As fear'd some Tramplers Noise (confirmed tho
Men came not there, Maids task'd at Home did shew)
Sweet, wilder Glance; Orsamnes joyn'd withal
That strong perswasive Point (till then let fall
Through Lover's Heat, and Courting part) that He
Was better Man in all regards than She
That time conceiv'd; if thought no cheat orehold,
Nor forg'd device: did strait the same unfold:
Ere long by us, tho now reserv'd, exprest;
Clermanthe when (with Wond'ring Thoughts possest)
Casting on him more serious Eyes, fixt there,
From Lilly-cheek'd did turn all Rose as 'twere:
Remember'd well sh' had seen him once before,
At great Court-Masque, some two Years since, no more:
In th' old King's days (his Father too beheld)
Inform'd 'twas He; thought Person choice, excell'd,
Then but Nineteen: heard gallant Praise of him
That Time, more afterwards, spread grand esteem.
Which view declar'd, her own Rank then and Name
She sober told withal. When heard the same,
Orsamnes strait remember'd with best pow'r
He saw her too at Court, that Masquing hour:
Thought Grecian Star, inquir'd, was told 'twas She,
Then but Fifteen (her Father there did see)
Plac'd not far off: th' old King soon after Dy'd;
Great Change conjoynd, as shall be specify'd.
This told to her, Himself in thoughts surpriz'd
Through that unlook'd-for Chance, much cordialliz'd
Since th' Omen rare; he strait his former Suit
Repeated thus. I hope that Kiss-salute,
Sweet'st Madam, now your Servant may obtain,
High Favour thought: She silence shew'd again.
He therefore tasts with chearful Gratitude
Those choice Preserves. Orsamnes then pursu'd
His first Assault, through stronger Flames did prove
More earnest Combatant i'th' field of Love.
Fairest o'th' Sex, so strange this Accident
May be conceiv'd, that I should hope the Event
Might Happy prove, and you my blissful Choice
Ordain'd by Heaven, may your Confirming Voice,
By gentle Grant accomplish my Desire;
So Honour'd more what now I Love admire.
Clermanthe sweet with streaming Blush reply'd,
More pure than from the Morning's Cheek descry'd,
(Startled through Noise withal conceited so,
Servants at work) It strange indeed may shew,
(Such things i'th' World) what consequence so'ere
Th' Attendant prove. Soon spoke, she paused there.
You may suppose, Love's Archer-boy this while
Close Ambush'd sate, with many a pleased Smile
Dimpling his Cheek, to see this amorous Duel,
Choice Lovers Scene; tho would not seem too cruel:
Brandish'd small Dart, then clap'd his Hands, as tho
Had plainly say'd; Thus pow'rful proves our Bow,
If task'd too far, that little God was sorry.
And from Clermanthe now will raise his Glory.
Sweet, beauteous Maid she saw prime choice Affection,
Rare Man conjoyn'd; nere meant for Coy rejection:
Love shining through most Lovely Person found,
Bright Virtue's Beams withall, more prais'd compound:
Words, Actions then proclaim'd his Noble Brest;
Of equal Rank unto her Self confest:
Clear'd shortly All: Thus Love's warm, pow'rful Dart
Doth kindly pierce the fair Clermanthe's Heart.
Orsamnes from those Suns her Eyes beheld
Sweet gentle Morn to break, fair Hopes reveal'd,
Made new Love-charge for Marriage-grant, assent,
Which should be Ingagement-like, with Joy, Content
Writ on his Heart: His Case because (as there
Most briefly told) long, Formal ways, whate're
Admitted not; open Address and known;
Thus crav'd her present Grant, that She'd alone
Meet strait without the Grove, on shaded ground;
Thence walk to large Dervan; close Lodging found.
She answer'd then; Her Case the same appear'd;
Hid from the World, withdrawn, else Danger fear'd.
He urging more, Clermanthe sweet reply'd,
Such Noble worth could not be long Deny'd:
And since Necessity conjoyn'd withal,
His Way approv'd, whate're Event befal.
Orsamnes when to shew his Grateful sence,
Kiss'd strait her Hand for that rare Confidence
In him repos'd; desir'd with chearful Brow
A Kiss for Seal, which she did Grant, allow.
Thus from her Hand he mounts to th' Lips, from whence
Snatch'd Cordial food with sober violence;
Restoratives; as after that long Fast
Would eat, devour: took Second, Third Repast;
Short time that way improv'd; neglecting neither,
First Beg'd, then Kist, kist, beg'd as 'twere together:
Well shrouded so her Bashful Cheeks (uncloy'd)
By numb'ring more, till Ten for Seal enjoy'd:
How could she cross, Deny? one might suppose
Her Lips Blush'd too, since prest so oft by Those.
Both for the Main resolved thus howere,
For Ord'ring all they strait consulted there:
Choice Meeting ground, thick-shaded Rock design'd,
Flight-shoot beyond the Grove, to either's mind:
Thence four miles Walk to th' Burrough-Town which Place
Pastors less us'd; some Lonely House, tho base,
For Lodging got; sent Letter strait that Night
To Uncle of his i'th' Pastors Vale, t'invite
His friendly help for close retreating Grange,
Like Sojourners, till Calm, more setled Change.
For th' Lady of the Grove, she might suppose
(Since Lines sent dangerous) some did Disclose,
Clermanthe inform She there discover'd prov'd;
Might be Surpriz'd, if fled not strait, Remov'd.
But if now told her Self, her Man or Maid
She'd send with Her, Orsamnes found Betray'd.
This further Cause to th' Sudden way (as 'twere)
That Speedy Course compel'd, told briefly there.
That Lady o'th' Grove had Stout young Son, a Knight,
(Years twenty one) tho Lordly honour might
Claim for Estate: good Person, Parts enjoy'd;
Much proud thereof; had Year and half imploy'd
In Travel then. Come back to Thracian Land,
His Mother sent him by convenient Hand
A Scroul of Lines, in which her Pen exprest,
Clermanthe was so long there Lovely Guest:
Whom he had View'd at that Court-masque before;
Now choicely improved grown for Beauty's store,
Both Body, Mind; as Daughter priz'd, Belov'd:
This first She heard her Read (as Fortune prov'd)
In Garden-bow'r. An Answer from the Son,
Ere long was brought, Observed well, which don,
Clermanthe follow'd her to th' selfsame Bow'r,
List'ned behind whilst all she Read that hour.
There heard her Self like Star advanc'd to th' Sky
In his conceit, fond Amorous Thoughts most high,
As Love-inflam'd, Pearl, Gems (to th' height commended)
Presents for her from th' East, by him Intended:
Would fly with Wings of Love to's Native ground
Court her for Wife, that choice Advantage found:
And doubted not from's Horse there to alight
Next day at Noon. Thus then, more speedy Flight
So long defer'd, 'twere strange to Steal away
His Men, Himself like scornful, squeamish Stray
Might follow Her, Orsamnes so surprize;
Fixt on Revenge, no Sword to equallize:
Strong, Daring prov'd, at Nineteen years, no more,
Had Two Disarm'd in Field, proud Conquerour.
Orsamnes joyns, He scorn'd his Rage, altho
Us'd but short Poyniard's help with Shafts and Bow;
Yet must Advance her Goodness prime, howere,
More Quiet gift her Self's Possession there.
Thus, Things resolv'd, taking then brief Farewel;
He chose that Way which (thought) might best Conceal
To th' guarded Gate; Wicket still open found;
That Porter fast through Drunken Slumber bound.
Good fair Excuse to curb howere, oresaw
Since Absent so, clear, friendly Entrance saw:
Tho 'twas Resolv'd by Them (perchance Descry'd)
That He should walk about the Grove's right side
(Half-part thereof) She turn Contrary way,
Left (bad Conceit) that Fellow might betray:
So, march'd to th' shaded Rock, where, shrouded well,
For's best Belov'd stood Amorous Centinel.
Clermanthe strait stept back to th' Fountain-grot,
Where (tho her Lute Discharg'd) not prove forgot
Hood, Fan, nor ribbon'd Gloves through nimble Speed;
Much less small Jewel-box, Rare chance indeed;
Brought down that Noon, where Pearl of dainty'st kind,
Necklace thereof, strung on the Bank, design'd.
So spirits rouz'd, Face veyl'd like Skies o'recast,
She smoothly trod through branched Shades at last
To th' mention'd Gate, where Wicket found but clos'd;
Else had she knock'd as for the Fields dispos'd.
Thence (Glancing round with flaming Eyes, less fear)
Through bord'ring Clump of Palms, well shrouded there,
She cross'd Flight-shoot to th' Rock, conjoyned shade;
Where dampt Noon-day, small twinkling Dawn display'd.
Being enter'd there, Orsamnes (joyful man)
Giv'n kindest Kiss, Imbrace, thus spoke, began.
Welcom most Fair to this reserved Cell,
Love's friendly Bow'r; where no Thought shall Rebel
Against your Chast Command, like Temple deem'd
You being here: This Favour (choice-esteem'd)
Your Servant shewn was nere by th' Sex outvy'd;
Prime confidence. Clermanthe Blush'd reply'd.
Your Love Desert conjoyn'd outweigh'd thus far
My strict Resolves, Both termed singular;
Of equal height; well Conquer'd me, oresway'd,
Orsamnes then; Dear, sweetest Madam, (said)
Your Goodness pleas'd (Transcendent that withall)
To prize them so, which like Sun-beams did fall
On doubtful Heart. This spoke, but short Demur,
Choice Kisses onely there obtain'd from her
(Now Free, Themselves) those thought prime Bait Repast
For's voyage then to great Dervan at last:
'Twas four miles Walk; with Quiver arm'd and Bow
Poyniard by th' side for's precious Charge did shew.
Thus on they walk'd through that small Shade combin'd,
Which Screen-like cover'd them from Ground behind.
The Sun did then drive down his Western Road,
Noon past some hours; with blazing Chariot shew'd
Like Prince of Day as large Evening-stage behind:
Whilst th' Azure skies smil'd on their Walk design'd.
Scarce half a Mile they measur'd o're, when heard
Loud-sounding Voice; Clermanthe partly scar'd,
As Porter from the Grove, but branched Fence
Standing between, they hearkned both from thence:
When spake again, conjoyn'd from Rocks above
Shrill Ecchoes Noise. No, No (said there) Mad Love
Best fits thy Name, here then sit down, Bemoan ye:
Ay me! Ech. Ay me! Heark, there's Dione: Ech. Dione:
'Tis she. Ech. 'Tis she. My joy, Contents the more;
O dost still think on thy Vanlor. Ech. Vanlor:
Indeed. Ech. Indeed. It sounds like pleasing Ditty;
Say't once again, dost truly Pitty? Ech. Pitty.
Dearest Dear. Ech. Dear. Thus then my Heart renew Love;
Dione's kind, and proves thy True-Love. Ech. True-Love.
False never. Ech. Never. Cease then to Importune;
Her Brest pertakes in thy hard Fortune. Ech. Fortune.
Sighs, Groans. Ech. Sighs, Groans. O soft and gentlest-hearted,
Day-dismal 'twas these Hands thus parted. Ech. parted.
Accurs'd. Ech. Accurs'd. What friend did speak, unfold it;
That I was here? Winds surely told it. Ech. told it.
'Twas strange. Ech. 'Twas strange. Stay Nymph, and do not pass me,
Dione sweet, but first Imbrace me, Ech. Imbrace me.
I'th' Ghostly Shades. Ech. Shades. Where no storm shall sever,
But we shall Love intwin'd for ever. Ech. Ever.
I come then. Ech. Come then.
This Party by those Names forementioned
Orsamnes knew; 'Twas handsom Youth, well bred,
Of birth Gentile; dwelt near their Pastors Plain
And call'd Vanlor: amongst the Beauteous Train
His Choice Dione fair, was rank'd, allow'd,
Who being Wore, long Friends debate like Clowd
Dispell'd at last; that Afternoon before
Their Marriage-day, when Love's Conjugal store
He thought t'enjoy (as Bedfellow surmis'd)
By burning Feaver's Rape was seiz'd, surpriz'd.
Bad Rival thus consum'd that gallant Frame,
To feed that Fire, unquench'd the Lover's flame;
Dead in few Days: when, Grief o'recharg'd his Mind,
(Strange Feaver there) to Frenzy grown: confin'd
By's Mother ought Enrag'd strait did prove;
Would Range abroad, since hop'd to Grasp his Love
Midst fields and Shades; us'd sad Complaint, where found
Kind Echo's answering Noise, upon that Ground
He'd Parly, stand; sick Fancy pleasing so;
Till, Lost through Rambling Mood, most Dumpish grow,
Mute many hours: might sad Example be
Of world-bred Change and frail Humanity.
Whom there they left to seek th' uncertain Cell
Of's Ayr-born Love; compassionate Farewel.
Thus on they Walk'd, till near three Miles o'th' four,
Main Task dispatch'd; when chanc'd to traverse o're
Smooth Velvet Plain, with Flow'rs adorn'd to th' eye
Like Summer-Gems, large River gliding by,
Which through the midst in various Wanton Maze
Sported it self; whilst Trees their Plumed grace
Joyn'd from the Bank; Sun-fans or Screens (as 'twere)
To th' Pearl-cheek'd dancing Nymph resembling there.
Close by that Stream their Journey lay, delight,
When thund'ring Noise ere long, did partly affright
Of Horses hoofs, beheld Six Armed Men
(Some distance off) Loud throats conjoyned then,
Much bawling heard: Those, Those are they, They sayd,
Quick, Seize 'em both. O Heavens! we are Betray'd;
Clermanthe strait; This seems some foul Design.
Madam (said He) if Rogues they prove, Combine
To Rob, enthral, I may some while Defend
Till Rescue chance. For that Surprizing end
Approaching near; Orsamnes with bent Bow
(Back turn'd to Her) cry'd stand; your Business shew;
Or he that first Assaults doth meet his Death.
When staring round, with wild, confused breath
O Fates, (they cry'd) This proves not He, past doubt,
Nor is that She. Like strange mistaken Rout;
Held on withal their former rambling Quest:
Much chear'd, reviv'd Fernanthe's drooping Brest.
The Cause was thus: Not full two Hours before,
A handsom Sharking Youth, fine-cloath'd (no more)
Had stoln young Girl, which wealthy Portion claym'd,
From crabbed Guardian, Torquares nam'd;
Whose Daughter Bride that day, great Celebration:
This Youth to dinner came, Intruding fashion,
With certain Friend; Danc'd with that Golden Lass;
Found Courting pause sometimes, no Heart of brass,
Softned, orecame: yet once before beheld;
Woo'd then by Looks, now th' Hand and Tongue reveal'd
Love's pow'rful Charms. She sitting by as tir'd,
Whilst others Danc'd, slunk forth to Grove (desir'd)
He follow'd strait, as Prize convey'd from thence.
These Horsemen strait pursu'd, lest for Defence
Should Marriage plead: inform'd, they cross'd this plain,
For Stature, Garb much like those Two (in vain)
Orsamnes and Fernanthe thought; howere,
Fast ty'd, conjoyn'd in Wedlock-bonds they were.
This Storm orepast, those Banks they travers'd so
Under green Arched Bow'r (Trees order'd Row
By th' wand'ring Stream) with more delight, contented;
Birds from each Branch their Songs to May presented.
Next, cross'd the Plain, where blazing Sun forth shin'd;
Too Hot Fernanthe thought, no gentler Wind:
Large Wood did stand close-rang'd o'th' other side,
By which their way, whence marching out descry'd
A Man and Horse; small Paniers bare the same,
As tho not far from private Lodg they came.
Reaching that Path, they suddenly beheld
Arm'd Troop of Horse, warlike, before conceal'd;
(Which turning down from th' end of Wood appear)
March'd towards them: Clermanthe strait through Fear,
New doubtful Thoughts retir'd within the Shade,
Pull'd back Orsamnes too, did then perswade
They might withdraw within that Path, Retreat
(Since winding shew'd) till marched by that great,
Offensive Troop; still found disturbed Brest,
Fear'd sad Events. Orsamnes strait exprest,
Her Motion not displeas'd, but did Conjure,
Presaging Less, she'd prove more Calm, secure.
Somewhat withdrawn, beheld not far below
High wall and Door, that shrouded Lodg might shew
Whence th' Horseman came which they did late descry:
Through longer Walk Clermanthe when grown Dry,
Much Heat withal, some cooling Drink desir'd;
Mile yet remain'd, small Time howere requir'd.
Thus, down they went, knock'd, open prov'd the Door;
View'd pleasant Place, which draws them on far more.
Large Green there was, Part finely Shaded found,
Part Open left; well order'd, handsom Ground:
High-wall'd about, to th' Gazer seem'd express
Chearful Reserve, more Solemn Pleasantness:
Shew'd fitted for Grave Philosophick mind
For contemplations cause Retreat design'd:
Art tir'd (as 'twere) with curious Courtly way,
And weary'd grown, thought here a while to Play.
Hereafter more: i'th' Nook beyond the Green,
Large Hermit's Cell (yet like to Bow'r) was seen.
Approaching near 'twas formed all, cut out
From Natural Rock, seem'd Thunder-proof about,
Thick Iron Door, the Walls with Vines orespread;
Spruce, civil Wildness shew'd, discovered.
Its pleasant Front proclaim'd, the Dweller there
Had thought to steal some Comfort, Joy (as 'twere)
From th' open World and Grief withall; would shew
Translated Man, th' Elyzian Fields below
This Ground conceiv'd; till (Mortal part lay'd by)
True Ghost became, would fold his Arms and Die.
No Person there they saw, yet all found Neat;
Furnish'd tho plain, as served for Retreat
Some Master still: Stools, Table, Chair and Bed
Trunk, Linnen-Chest, Hour-glass, well ordered:
Bright Sword o'th' Wall, whereto did Belt belong;
Vessels of Earth, for Books convenient Throng.
Large Cupbaord too, where Cheese and Butter store,
Bak'd-meat conjoyn'd which for Half-week, or more,
Would th' Host content; brought newly in, there laid
By th' Country-man forenam'd, still so convey'd
Twice every Week, Dervan from thence a Mile
Beer (last) there was, Strong waters; tho some while,
His Tast was pleas'd with Pure adjoyned Fount;
Of Natur's Wand'ring Cellar made account.
Soon looking forth, Glance cast, from Corner there
(Garden of Herbs, beyond) did strait appear
Lusty, ancient Man, then Fifty years might shew;
Mean, plainer Garb, joyn'd comely Person tho;
Naught Dazl'd when their Finer Ones beheld,
As if had seen what far (in Youth) Excell'd.
Salute discharg'd, Orsamnes said, They were
Two Strangers come from Corinth lately there;
For Delphos next, kind Uncle where surviv'd,
(Rich, wealthy man) of golden Coin depriv'd,
And Horses both by Thievs, Six Miles from thence:
Should now Retreat to th' worthy Friend, from whence
They came that Morn, for courteous Aid, Supply:
The Lady, through Hot, toilsom Walk grown Dry,
Would gladly Tast of his Refreshing Beer.
Th' Hermit conjoyn'd, You both are Welcome here;
Some Noble Rank proclaim; my Mother prov'd
Corinthian born, my self long Travel lov'd
And now may Honor'd seem through that Request,
So fair a Lady found my Drinking Guest.
Led strait the Way, whilst Each to Muse began;
As tho mistook this Plain-cloath'd Hermit-man.
Both ent'ring next, there sitting down, He draws
Fresh, milder Beer which Heat dispell'd, the Cause
Of droughty Thirst; retired then to Chair,
Set Countenance, as something would Declare
Which mark'd by Them, Fernanthe gave close Sign
They yet should Stay, with his Discourse combine.
Orsamnes asking him, How long did Dwell,
So Hermit-like, in that Reserved Cell.

The Hermit's Story.

The Story of Orsamnes.

The Story of Clermanthe.

Her Father was a Duke, by splendid Birth
And Fortune great, since Lord of spacious Earth:
Prov'd Her withal to Cyprus Crown (which we
Shall yet Reserve) for Parts past mean degree:
Life temperate till Thirty's Age out-worn,
Did for Ten years the Marriage-bed adorn:
Was Noble-minded thought, as nobly Train'd;
Soon afterwards to Private Lust enchaind.
Nor that so Stoln, as unsuspected neither,
Whence alter'd seem'd, more Weak; like dancing Feather
Rul'd and o'repowr'd by wanton Female's Blast:
Did Charm'd appear, Transported so at last:
Who Crost him ought that way might Thunder move,
Deep Hatred raise from strongest former Love;
Verdorus call'd. Her Mother was the Niece
To th' great Corinthian Queen, might challenge Greece
So Good and fair, Gems seldome found in One;
Fit Mother for Clermanthe's Self alone.
Eugene nam'd; whose Beauty's wrong'd in part
By Ten years time, tho flourish'd well (his Heart
Dispos'd withal for Change) Verdorus kept
Lov'd Concubine, which Meals did take and Slept
Under's own Roof; by Match far off Ally'd;
Gondace call'd, for Wanton way comply'd:
Th' House-Governess, if so mean-stiled be,
(Plac'd at same Bord) Eugene's Deputy.
Choice, handsom Form she had, but Foul within
As that shew'd Lovely, Fair; Wise for all Sin,
Bad thoughts, Exploits, for Deadly Practise too;
Where Spite Ambition's cause could Murther do;
Prime Boldness, Garb; Enchantment-Spells (as 'twere)
Her Looks display'd, joyn'd Graceful Carriage there:
Ingenious, last; Smooth-tongu'd with Haughty Spirit;
Could Goodness Feign, tho voyd of Virtuous merit.
This Minion, Pearl, afraid Wife's dear Relation,
Desert conjoyn'd, with pow'rful Friends perswasion.
Might cause her Self to be Discharg'd; Estrange
Her great, Fond Paramour; most loathsom Change;
Plump Fortune shrunk to Want, High Dreams beside,
What Glory, Wealth if she could prove his Bride;
Wife to the Duke: or Govern all howere
In Wifely Room, were not Eugene there:
She was resolv'd, when Sick Distemper found,
To Poyson her; close, Advantageous Ground.
As for Eugene's Thoughts, less Jealous head,
Soft, gentle Heart, but small Disturbance bred
(Those Actions for Two Years to Her unknown)
Kind Favors spake Ally's regard alone.
Son also had brought forth Eugene's womb,
One Daughter more couch'd in their Slumb'ring Tomb.
That Season past, by Fit of Sickness when
The Duchess seiz'd, that Vile Gondace then
For Poysonous Feat prepar'd; but Night before
Through Feaver Dead: well pleas'd th' Ambitious Whore:
Thought Friendly Fates therein with Her Conspir'd.
Twelve Years Clermanthe's Age; then Flow'r admir'd:
Some Thirty two Gondace's Self, tho seem'd
By View not Twenty four, fresh Coin esteem'd,
And tho faln short of her main Mark, the Seizing
Wife's gallant Style (that looser Way then pleasing
The Duke's depraved Tast) she's Mistress grown;
Doth Planet-like that Sphear command alone.
The Servants all Fear'd, Flatter'd strangely now,
Run, fly like Purchas'd Slaves, most humbly Bow.
Nor question'd least what was his Lordship's Will,
Her Nod does check, Command, and her Frown still
Cashiering Doom appear'd: his Treasure lyes
Open as Day for her Vain Masqueries,
Pomp, gaudy Furnitures; whose Golden Tide
She seem'd to Rule; could Draw from thence beside:
Choice future Hord, enlarge her Private Store;
As seiz'd his Heart, that Rifled long before.
Which ways (her Female World enjoy'd, Resign'd,)
The Duke observed not; Transported Mind.
Son too she had Sixteen Years old, kept there;
Her Forward Self that, scarce Sixteen, did Bear.
Tall Man-like Branch, much Handsom Person fram'd;
For Carriage, Garb compleat, Brisoldan nam'd:
Own'd her strong, Natural, Ingenious Head,
As baser Heart; with Council-Milk so Fed,
He thriv'd like Hopeful Youth, to her Desire,
For bad Exploits; lov'd t'over-reach, Aspire:
Much Favour'd (last) Rang'd at the Duke's own Table.
This Spark to make more mounting, Great (if able)
She Rouz'd her Thoughts, strange Plot resolv'd upon;
Clermanthe th' Heyr his Wife must prove alone.
Thus spent no Day, wherein her Female Art
Play'd not some Forged Scean, bold Stage-like part
On Young Clermanthe's weakness. First, she Aws
With her new Greatness, State; thereby to cause
More Reverent thoughts of her (forsooth) Esteem;
So, valu'd High (joyn'd Choice regard) might seem
Following Kindnesses; then, more Descended,
Showr'd gentle Favours oft, with Love attended:
Such Birdlime us'd. Call'd forth to th' Garden, Grot,
Walk'd, chats with her; then, as Grand Height forgot,
Familiar grown, the Wanton Wag she plays;
Toy'd there sometimes, conceiv'd no meaner Grace.
Then, Gifts for Baits; no tempting Knack, Device,
If well could draw Clermanthe's Younger Eyes,
Too Costly thought: brave Cloaths conjoyn'd, the Father
Free in th' Extream, to please, content the rather
Gondace's Mood: fine shews and Masquing sports;
Which Way withal Brisoldan choicely Courts,
Chief Revel-master there; so Forward Brain:
How Active when she wanted ought, does strain
Ere fully Spoke, exprest, as in that Ayr
Of her Commands did Breath; then (soft Love-prayr)
Small Sigh was dropt for Cloze: Thus, having won
(First) Love her Self, she thought th' Observant Son
Kind Liking, next; She might Advance the better
To th' main Exploit, Fernanthe grown her Debtor:
Since deep-implanted Love betrays the Mind
To baser Motions oft, struck Fondly blind.
Five Months dissolv'd, to th' Garden, summer-bower
Gondace walk'd, where known (withdrawn that Hour)
Clermanthe was; and after Grave salute,
To which more solemn Gloomy Smile did sute;
Set down by Her, with Crafty Brain as bold,
She thus began. Madam, I must unfold
My hopeful Son's Misfortune, Change, whatere,
Who may like th' early Blasted Bud appear.
Hence proves the Cause; 'tis so, Love's wounding Dart
Transpierced hath (Unarm'd) his Tender Heart;
Thrown from your Eye, which foul Effect displays,
Long Watchful Nights, and sad, complaining Days.
Good, Gentle Youth! you may be Informed still
More Glory 'tis to save by far, then Kill.
My Self withal that choicely valu'd Son
Should owe like Debt to You, ere Lost, undon.
'Tis for grand Cause, the Light of my own Eye
And your true Servant, next, sworn Votary
That thus I Plead, Perswade, Things proving so,
Fair Innocence should not foul Murth'ress shew.
Nor move I strange, Injurious Thing, that jars
With Friendship ought; tho from th' unkinder Stars
Small Turfy ground Enjoy'd, He's Rich within;
Whose Breast appears Young Virtue-magazin
For Person, Parts by None whatere Excell'd;
If Mothers do not Doat, Prime Piece beheld.
Nature (well Task'd) not Playd at all when made him;
And my Alliance weigh'd, let none Degrade him
From Nobleness, if that Transcendent Mind
Stile him not so: for Wealthy Lands combin'd,
You'l have Estate for Both; let sordid Moals
Dig still beneath, to Brave and Virtuous Souls
All's in that Term, Enough: besides 'twill prove
Obliging Grant, ingage to stronger Love.
For Titles, last, no Doubt conceived there,
My Son in Wedlock ty'd to th' lawful Heyr,
Shall strait great Lord become, advanced Head;
Styl'd Duke in th' End, Your Father being Dead.
Clermanthe, first this Motion entertain'd
With Wonder's Glance, then dainty'st Blushes stain'd
As tho she would that Silent way upbraid
Gondace's setled Cheeks, since none display'd.
Rouz'd strait her Reason's strength, tho Young descry'd
Unworthy Plot with fairer Gloss, outside,
Prime-varnish'd ore; Covetousness conceiv'd,
Ambition's threads that Garment, tho Weav'd
With Silken Love. Nor was by Friendly Bond
Oblig'd so far, as to be Strain'd beyond
Her Sober Self, fit Honour's Bounds; altho
Directly 'gainst the Stream she dar'd not go,
Thought Soothing best a while, since Match'd orehard;
High Spirit saw, joyn'd Father's Fond Regard.
These Modest words for Answer fram'd alone;
She no such Beauty's Stock could Challenge, own;
Nor well conceive such Amorous Passion sorted
With her Son's tender Years; Those rather Courted
Pleasures, Pastimes, were Strangers found to Love:
Thus, Suckled Hope; whatere the Lord might prove.
Forth strait they Went to Gallant Water-grot,
Conjoyned Grove, Gondace's Order'd Plot;
Fine Summer-house, with Trees encompass'd round;
Space left for Walk; where on the Shaded ground
(Choice Turf withal) carv'd Fountains store beheld,
In Circle rang'd, whose Curious Art excell'd.
Six 'bout the Room, shewn Dancing Streams from far,
(Joyn'd Murmur's noise) like Watry Theatre
That Room it self with costly Marble shin'd,
Pictures, Rock-work, for pleasant Bow'r design'd.
Being set, repos'd; Prime Musick-strains in Parts
(Brisoldan joyn'd, not wanting for those Arts)
Flow'd sweetly round like Streams in one full Tide
Or th' Ears Perfume, to th' Lady's sense did glide:
For Storms (as 'twere) good pleasing Lullaby;
The Soul's prime Minion thought, since Harmony
Makes up th' Amired Soul: how cordial Passion
Those can present, Tune forth in various fashion:
Now Joy, then sad Complaint; as also prove
Kind Melting Sounds, more Soften th' Heart for Love:
To th' curious Hands conjoyned (last) Voice-quire,
Whose Language, Words more Raise, advance Desire.

SONG.

1.

Two Voices.

What's choice Beauty bar'd from Love?
Dainty'st Meats and Drinks vain prove.

Two Other.

Whilst kept Withdrawn, untasted:
Those Treasures small Felicity
Give th' Owner till Enjoy'd they be;
In Handsom Time, well wasted.

2.

Whilst Youth, Beauty crown thy brow,

Two Voyces.

Gems Combin'd;
Ripened Fruit for Tast design'd,
Rot not on the Summer's bough.
Autumn-Blasts will scatter all

Two other.

Your Pride, well mounted Glory;
Those to Earth despised fall,
When You too late are Sorry.
Next walking forth, there Warbled through the Grove
Clear, lively Cornets which for Conquest strove,
'Mongst Boughs aloft; first One heard Single sounding,
Another then, Former's lost Noats rebounding,
Like mirthful Eccho's Play, did Flourish o're
Short, ending Strain; to that conjoyned more:
Third, Fourth succeed, still Answer'd round by Course;
Lodg'd circular, till from some Place (perforce)
Nymph Eccho rais'd, turn'd Wanton Pratler there.
Then joyn'd their Noise, as meant the Grove to tear
With pow'rful piercing Blast, and Fright those small
Plumed Inhabitants (rare-voic'd withal)
Through their Green branched Cabins. These for Cloze,
Seem'd swallow'd by Recorders Sound, with those
Strong, larger Throats, Sackbots and Shalms, unview'd:
When Wood-Nymphs came, by Satyrs strait pursu'd,
From Shaded part, (feign'd wild-bred Silvan Lovers)
Shew'd Antick Dance: the Girls with Leaf-wrought Covers
Bedrest and Flow'rs; their Men like Goatish kind,
Skins Hairy wore, small Horns and Hoofs design'd
Pipes held in sport, Nymphs Hunting Darts aloft:
What Wanton Postures there; fond Kisses oft:
Strange freaks beheld: whilst, Shrouded close on high,
Their Musick seem'd Celestial Waits o'th' Sky.
These Courting ways Brisoldan pay'd (whenere)
His prime Observances, Love-duties there
(Dissembled tho) as Vital Pow'rs were lent
For that Regard: would Verses too Present
(For Parts, ingenious Brain well furnish'd, stor'd,
As those Young Years could probably afford)
By th' Mothers hand, Ambassadress compleat:
Nay, Chamber kept, at last, Love-qualms so great;
Befool'd his Night-cap, Health; whilst former Road,
Kind Favours still, the proud Gondace trod.
And when sometimes her Lover's Charge renew'd,
Clermanthe, falling back, would thus Delude,
Fence gentler way: Her Son's approv'd Desert
Not question'd was, but Light, inconstant Heart
That doubtful Age, those younger Years; her One
Does Plead withal, yet Fancy's Pow'r not known,
What Choice to make; these further Thoughts unfold,
Her Father's Frown, at last: when strait the Bold
Gondace Smil'd, with careless Glance reply'd:
Were They but once confirm'd by Vows, and Ty'd
Marriage-time come, when fit to make Relation,
Discovery; her Pow'rful, short Perswasion,
Fernanthe's Planted Love, Son great in Favour,
Should eas'ly draw the Duke: yet seem'd to Waver
The Lady's thoughts, Conjoyned grounds of Fear;
Some gentle Change, event still Hop'd for there.
Thus held they on their Ling'ring Siege (grand Prize)
Till Time Four Years near Progress'd through the Skies.
During that while, Brisoldan play'd so long
Love's fonder Part, Tormenting, last, more Strong
Those Amorous thoughts, Desires grown Elder now,
Near Twenty's Age; the choice Clermanthe's Brow
Love's Royal Throne, as 'twere, transcendent Beauty;
Drest round with Darts and Flames, commanding Duty;
Tall Person, nigh Sixteen advanc'd in some,
Perfection shew'd, all Ravishment become:
That he had Qualms sustain'd, True, sober Fires;
Tho swel'd with Love Ambition's vast Desires;
Saw brave Estate, was there Enamoured,
Honor conjoyn'd; prov'd Duke her Father dead:
Some Lord before. Proud, haughty Soul did own,
False, Treacherous; great Parts corrupted grown
On Vice did wait, Base Ends far more than other,
Ingenious, Bad betimes, like th' Harmful Mother.
Who still could Hope; with Fondest Thoughts survay'd
His Person, Parts; Fine gallant Garb Display'd:
Court-gem conceiv'd; such Things might do the Feat;
Clermanthe at length Enjoy'd, tho Fair and Great.
Large Mantinea then Proclaim'd in State,
With Publick Shows, their New, chief Magistrate;
Prime Town some eight Miles off, where born along
Choice Pageants were, through Vulgar, gazing Throng.
But that Clermanthe had beheld before,
'Twas Yearly done, so Disregarded more.
Next gaudy Day, with various Pomp to th' Eye,
Embassadour from Egypt-land passed by:
His Lady afterward, when Wives they brought
(Left Space howere) Show more Triumphant thought.
Then Publick Entrance made, Strange People seem'd;
Large Tawney Train; beyond first Sight esteem'd:
Tho clearer Tawny, better Fac'd by far
(Less Southern Clime) than True Moroccos are.
These to behold Clermanthe was inclin'd
(Tho seldom saw that Town, more closely Shin'd)
Gondace too conform'd, Brisoldan waited;
Set tho are in large, Long-window'd Room, dear-rated.
Th' whole Room not Free, left to themselves, howere,
Places by Others first Bespoken there.
A great Young Lord by chance was there before;
Soon after Second came, trod selfsame Floor,
Took th' other side; i'th' Midst Clermanthe sat:
Who scarce Regarding Them, well pleas'd with that
Her Window shew'd; on Her they Fondly Gaz'd
Transported way, such Beauteous Form, Amaz'd.
Strait Marked by Brisoldan's Jealous Glance;
Fortune did both for Rank, Estate advance.
Known Lords to him by Name; turn'd watchfull Scout,
He Steals near man to th' Last, bad Rival-doubt;
Lean'd Slily there as tho the Street beheld,
Heard speak to's Friend; She's Rare, unparallel'd:
His Page sent down from th' Servants told below
Whose Coach, what Lady brought: Resolv'd did shew
For Suitor thus; Her Father known in part:
Stung through the Ear Brisoldan's gauled Heart.
Slunk then to th' Formost Lord (like Stranger howere)
Stood sneaking by, as Glanc'd through Window there:
Face cover'd tho with Handkerchief, unseen,
Wiping his Nose, as pass'd those Lords between:
Heard him no less her Beauty's Praise admire;
Boy charge withal o'th' Coach-man to enquire
Whose Daughter 'twas; inform'd thereof, Relation,
Strait to 's Comrade us'd strongest Protestation,
He would her Servant be: Both Gaz'd again,
Till view'd each other Both with Heart's Disdain.
Last-ent'ring Lord did monstruous Doubts discover,
That Formost would (whom nam'd) prove Rival-lover.
Brisoldan thus now Hot, then Cold appear'd,
Like diff'rent Climes, as burn'd with Rage, or Fear'd:
Since Those he thought, the substance might Enjoy
(His Part the Shade) long, Hopeful Dream destroy.
Then came the Show; scarce pleas'd Brisoldan's Sense:
Chief Sight to th' Lords Clermanthe's Excellence.
Others fair Eyes, with Her's being look'd upon,
Like Window's Glass conceiv'd to th' Diamon.
Th' Ambassadour was Pompous way beheld
In Chariot drawn; for Glist'ring Robes excell'd:
Shew'd Tauney Cheek; Twelve Moors, coal-black to th' Eye
(Strange Garb) on foot; Gay, mounted Boys led by
Fine Horses cloath'd: Twelve Servants rode before
With colour'd Darts, short, Gaudy'st Garments wore:
Three view'd as formost Rank, loud Trumpets bearing
On either side the King's tall Guard appearing.
Then follow'd strait, for State, Two Coaches more,
Six Horses each, Arcadian Coaches store.
His Lady, last, in Gorgeous Chariot shin'd
(Good Space between) Two Handmaids sate combin'd
Beneath her feet; Eight Tauney Youths attended:
Spruce Pages hors'd; Coach follow'd all; so ended.
This done, perform'd, Clermanthe Rose, pass'd by;
Such Light'ning-stream conceiv'd to th' Gazers eye;
As walk'd along, Lords joyntly Bow'd, which She
In modest, Sob'rer way return'd, less Free;
On each small Glance: Brisoldan forc'd to Low'r,
Whilst Usher'd down prime Grecian Star that hour.
Returning Home, he told Gondace all,
Which rais'd no less her Spleen, ambitious gall;
That those great Lords, should thus Delude in th' end:
Hope not yet Dead, each Brain does now Contend
To stop their Course, Love bear'd on either side
Brisoldan (last) for th' Actor's Task comply'd.
Thus order'd 'twas: He when next Morn display'd,
To Mantinea Rode; bought ready-made
Spruce Cloaths Gentile, false Hair, with Youngest Beard,
Black Patches strait to th' Front and Cheek prefer'd
For Souldiers Scars; grown Tall, of Man-like frame;
To that Last-enter'd Lord most boldly came
Where Lodger prov'd: with Forged Craft assayl'd;
Whose Haughty Mind, (since Duels fought, prevail'd)
Soon Fired was, conceiv'd; great former Brawl
'Twixt him and th' other Lord, Swords Drawn withal:
Still fester'd Grudg: So Valliant, Stout (whatere)
That Formost Lord, unus'd Affronts to Bear.
After Salute; he said, That he was known
To th' other Lord, tho well Acquainted grown
With this Lord's Worth, by Fame; Transcendent, high;
Told him; That Lord, come from the Show (base lie)
With's glass of Wine pronounc'd in Vaunting fashion,
He saw Clermanthe there; Grand Admiration!
Would Suitor prove: This Lord (said) did no less
By Looks and Words (which Page oreheard) express:
But he could Spoyl his Game; to th' Duke would Write,
He kept his Whore, Diseas'd through that Delight;
Drunk oft withal (so, Daub'd his Nobler parts)
If met would Slash him there for's Love-deserts.
Was crost, oresway'd, or else in former Jar
He had well mark'd his Flesh, like Man of War:
Another by, who Smil'd at all in Sport;
Then drank Clermanthe's Health in Ranting Sort.
Brag'd, that he had her first Salute that day
First Glance (conjoyn'd) Farewel, when walk'd away,
Brisoldan said; tho he conceiv'd, as then,
He scarce would Write (proud Rival's Tongue, bold Pen
Bad Trusting tho, howere (yet for th' Abuse,
'Twas foul and Base; did Loathsom thoughts produce.
Tho wish'd well to that Lord, yet He much more
True Honour Lov'd; Disclos'd it on that Score.
His Lordship now might best Discretion use
For Noble grounds, Prevent, or Season loose.
The Lord's Enrag'd; each younger Lover found
(Where Spirit bred) Hot, Credulous compound:
Kept lately his Whore, indeed; last month Diseas'd
(Brisoldan so heard from Comrades, well pleas'd
Since serv'd his Turn) could Drink Carousing part;
Yet this foul, strange Affront did Stab to th' Heart;
Some things tho True: conjoyn'd their former Jar
Like Fester'd Wound, more Gal'd withal by far:
Those Terms on that: base Rival-threats, at last,
If at the Duke's should meet; no Point orepass'd:
Two Others there. Brisoldan shew'd that while
Of Honest Stamp, Parts, Person, Garb Gentile.
Thus, Thanks return'd, he vow'd straitways his Page
Should Challenge bear, with Rival's storming Rage.
Brisoldan's glad; conjoyn'd; Were it not Best
To talk, Confer? since what that Lord exprest
He may Recant; for th' Suitor's Game, howere,
Your Lordship's Cards as Hopeful, Good appear.
No, that's in vain; Blood drawn, (the Lord reply'd)
Disarm'd at least Clermanthe's more my Bride.
Th' Hour, Place, in Fuming Mood, told thereupon;
Five th' Afternoon: forth false Brisoldan's gon.
Pen, Paper brought, this angry Stream did flow,
For Challenge meant; Time, Place set down below

The Challenge.

Sir, stead of Lord, take these in shortest way;
Your Saucy, foul Affronts orepass'd, I say,
Strong Ground enough for Challenge this shall prove,
Presumpteous Thoughts to Court Clermanthe's Love:
If that Disclaim'd; then I shall Draw howere
For th' Praisant part in Words, Chastise you there.
Swel'd th' other Lord; nor much those Points admir'd;
Since fondest Looks did speak what Both Desir'd,
That day before; Suitor's Resolve might fall
From Servant Friend by chance, oreheard withal;
Th' Affronts there nam'd last Quarrel seem'd indeed;
Nor would be Dar'd from Love; to meet agreed.
Brisoldan was with Doning Food well pleas'd,
Since Hopeful Thoughts Both might by Fate be seiz'd;
Dead Pair perchance; or grant, but One should Die,
Clermanthe would that Killers Tongue Deny:
If Both escap'd Wounds may Love-suit defer
Some Mischeif claw'd Brisoldan's Heart howere.
When Twelve was past, he rode to th' Meeting-place;
Cops branched Shade conceal'd Dissembling Face,
False Treacherous Brest; th' Horse, Man oreclouded so;
Those Lords well match'd Appear'd, might equal shew,
Skill, Valour, Strength, on each their Page attended
High Wrath, Disdain Words Talking quickly ended
The Fight began; Both first and second Pass
Deep-wounded were, their Flesh no Steel, nor Brass.
Much wasted prov'd those Crimson Streams of Life:
When Third Assault, resolv'd to close the Strife;
That Lord, term'd Challenger (Each changing ground)
Advancing made most furious Thrust, large Wound;
The same receiv'd; Both plentifully Bled,
Grapling withal, First Lord fell down as Dead,
Th' Other aloft; soon Rouled tho o'th' side
Stretch'd Conquerour: small Joy Triumphant pride.
When both did Cloze, Youth from next Hill descended,
On gallop came; Six more well arm'd attended;
Whose Voyces loudly exclaim'd from far, Hold, Hold:
But came too late, both Bleeding on the Mold.
Young man Dismounted streight, falls on his Brest
Who fell beneath; sad Voice conjoyn'd exprest.
With Sighs and Tears: his Body clasped round,
Some fonder Brother thought, most strange Compound
Of Sorrow shew'd; the lordlike Corps appearing,
(Sense vanish'd, gone,) his Hair most wildly tearing;
Off came the False: True Womans Hair instead
Flow'd largely down (Plaits broken) from that Head.
Young Lady 'twas, of Beauteous Personage,
To whom that Lord himself did far Ingage.
By former Vow; now second Choice advanc'd;
Small Marvail tho, since on Fernanthe glanc'd,
That Wonder saw, chief Mistriss stil'd, Supream.
That Lady by some Page (sad Fear extream)
Told their Resolve, (what Quarrel's cause unknown)
Went cloath'd Man-like to th' Magistrate alone;
Had Order streight to stop them Both, surprize,
But came so late, that Death before her eyes
Seemed first to Grasp, detain'd as Prisoners there:
So Arraigning them, Sense, motion found, howe're,
Good signs of Life; to Mantinea then
Both carry'd are, Restor'd by skilful'st Men:
That Lady too her Lord enjoy'd; Frustrated
Th' other Lord's Suit, for cause anon Related.
Brisoldan with Gondace pleas'd th' Event
Since thought them Dead; vain Art's Experiment.
She then Resolv'd on last Assault, by Storm;
Madam (began) four years, I may inform
My Son and Self has waited for kind Grant:
You cannot now (this Age) be Ignorant.
Of your own Brest, what choice your Fancy pleases;
Brisoldan's Tall, to Manlike Frame encreases;
Shewn Excellence for Body's part and Mind,
And as the Sun still constant Servant shin'd.
To th' Globe beneath, proves (last) most faithful Lover:
Pray, now your Thoughts for clearest view discover.
Clermanthe when, with sob'rest, radiant Eyes,
Good, gentle voice (shunn'd Scornful part) replys.
Brisoldan may with far more ease, success
Seek other's Grant for Wedlock's Happiness.
I feel my Heart no way to Love dispos'd;
And when shall change, least Marriage-thought disclos'd.
Should Poise things well for that so prime Relation;
Conjoyn'd with all my Father's Approbation.
Such Looks and Words, shewn plain Refusing there,
Gondace now might Raise their Siege, Forbear.
Thus had she Time, much Care with thoughtful Brain
Still fondly Sow'd, th' expected Crop to gain;
Tho Reap'd but empty Wind, at last: She saw
Clermanthe now grown Tall, past Girlish Awe
Woman become: four years produc'd and bred
Much Wisdom too: Hope fail'd, like Vapor fled.
For then the Lady's thoughts did more despise
That meaner Choice, Gondace's self, whose Prize
Her Father made; his Wench long time concluded:
Next, Mother wrong'd; the Daughter (last) Deluded.
Tho, pow'r too weak, shew'd Carriage fair discreet;
Prov'd much Reserv'd, withdrawn as fear'd to meet
Fresh Love-assaults: Gondace therefore now
Turn'd off, dispair'd with angry Female-Brow.
Destructive Heart. Tho monstrous Aggravation
Swell'd, hightned all, that Scornful Indignation
Should she Oretop, or Clash, with her contend;
Yet Regent there, her Father at Boards-end:
Thought Loathsom, Rack: Thus, She's resolv'd for trying
Sure Fatal ways; Clermanthe's shortly Dying.
Then could she advance, Ingraft withall her Son
To the Duke Verdorus's Heart, no Marvel don;
Plant him for the Heir; That Man who best might claim,
Since nearer far Ally'd to th' Duke became.
(Wife's Nephew 'twas) Conceiv'd, in Travel Drown'd
(None left of Blood) or Dead on Persian Ground.
Nor Spleen so well conceal'd but it appear'd;
Flashings whereof Clermanthe saw, and Fear'd.
Two Weeks dissolv'd, Clermanthe's Breast and Head
Through Sorrow pain'd; joyn'd watchful hours in Bed;
Broth was bespoke: Asking the Girl, (when espy'd)
Whose making 'twas; The old Nurse, she strait reply'd;
Gondace there withal: bad, Jealous Qualm
Disturb'd her Heart; Door lock'd, she gave the same
(Great Part) to little Dog, who Pinning lies
Some smaller while, then Rouled, gasps, and Dyes.
Death Honour'd found his Lady's Taster there,
Then Life's Reprieve; her Mortal pangs did bear.
This view'd, beheld, strange Horrors seiz'd, possest
Her fainting Powers, sad, Storm-distemper'd Brest;
Such wickedness in th' World should be disclos'd,
Nay Woman-kind; her self withal Expos'd.
To that grand danger Death: like Glass was seen
In that poor Dog what She should there have been,
Sighs for whose Funeral, belov'd of late,
More for her Fears conjoyn'd, perplext Estate.
Laid on the Bed she Rose, then Walk'd about;
Life's Sickly Lamp seem'd near to going out.
Death's dreadful Masque, Ghosts, Sables Winding-shrouds
(For Musick Knells and Groans) her Fancy o're-clouds.
Through sad conceit like Graves that under Floor,
Since durst not speak (tho fatal Storms did Roar.)
Acquaint the Duke, complain; confirmed mind,
Such prov'd Gondace's boldest Front, combin'd.
Smooth, crafty Tongue, encourag'd (last) far rather
Through Powerful Charms o're her inchanted Father.
(High thoughts of Her conjoyn'd withal) that She
Would Swear, 'twas a Lye; base, spleenful Forgery:
Clermanthe kill'd her Dog, had poyson'd there
That Broth herself; 'Twas made by th' Nurse howe're:
(Tho confident the old Nurse abhorr'd that Sin;
Step'd partly aside Gondace dropt it in)
Out-staring all till seem'd but Envious Spight,
As Saucy check'd their close Content, delight.
The Duke enrag'd, found her Life become,
Through either's Hate, like Rack's tormenting Doom.
If silent was, Death shortly seiz'd her still,
Her Soul howe're the Whore's Tenant seem'd at will.
Thus down she sate, like Sorrow's mournful Spouse,
Death's Bride as 'twere; did th' utmost Courage rouze.
Still Beauteous, Lovely, tho with self debated:
What should she do? each hand Destruction waited.
When clearer thoughts these words did seem t'impart,
Clermanthe's Hope; kind Beam did chear her Heart.
Thus rais'd, resolv'd (young years ne're more discreet)
For flight she streight prepar'd her nimble feet.
The rest o'th' Broth was thrown away, lest spy'd;
Supp'd by that Girl, whoe're, thereof they dy'd.
Th' Old Nurse, (poor harmless Wretch) condemn'd for all
That little Dogs might seem Death Natural.
Small Linnen-change, much Gold, rich Jewel-box
In her large Scarf convey'd; Back-door she unlocks;
Which friendly led to th' Garden's shaded side,
Glance thrown like Lightning round, lest caught, descry'd;
So through long cover'd Bow'r where if beheld
Sh' had walking seem'd did smoothly trace conceal'd.
(Oft glances back) to th' Postern-door, at last;
Mufl'd from thence conjoyned Fields orepass'd
Towards her Nurse, Morneda call'd (whose Farm
Mile distant was; whom chanc'd to take by th' Arm.
In midst o'th' way to Bushes drawn, runs o're
Her mournful Tale with Tears; which Perled score
Nurse dropt as fast again; concurr'd that She
Would find her out some Lodg reserv'd (whilst Free)
Some sheltring place from dreadful Storms whatere,
That she might closely Lurk, and Sojourn there.
Two years expense and charge to undergo,
Gold Coyn she brought, for after-times did show
Rich Jewel-box, thought worth three thousand pound,
Mothers kind gift; when death did seize, surround;
As tho she would that needful chance Presage,
Nurse, some of them might for more Coin ingage.
Good, gentle Nurse was walking softly then
Some five Miles off, Week ere return'd agen;
To visit Aunt; at home no wonder so
Through absence caus'd: Clermanthe poized tho,
She had but one Maid, true faithful Wench beside,
If Search should prove, as if themselves comply'd.
Strong Hopes to please her mind Nurse briefly told;
Ill staying there, by th' way would all unfold.
Thus, forth they rush'd from Trees, bad danger fearing;
Their Journey's course began, no Scouts appearing.
Nurse then informed, that Lady's house seem'd best
Within the Grove, her self kind noble Brest
Her Mistress prov'd; Married from thence, before
Clermanthe's Nurse; ne'r Maid regarded more.
Long Widow there did dwell, withdrawn, retir'd;
Had but one Son who Travell'd, lov'd, desir'd;
Was newly gone to th' Eastern Parts, inclos'd
By th' Asian Bound for several years dispos'd.
This (last) conjoyn'd; when, visited of late,
She had Clermanthe Prais'd at th' highest rate;
That Lady wish'd, she had such a Gem, 'twould be
In Daughters stead to chear her Privacy:
Coach streight they hired, since forty miles from thence
(Close veil'd withal) needful convenience.
Clermanthe set at Neighbour-town, conceal'd,
Nurse first to th' Lady went, her Case reveal'd;
Who lik'd the thing: their motion did advance,
Clermanthe i'th' mean time, lest crush'd perchance.
Her Fortune's hoped for to empty Ayr
High Daughters claim (Gondace's earnest care.
To urge she thought) strong Fancy in her Father
That she was Lost, or plainly, Dead much rather;
Brisoldan's hopes no Poisonous Plot exprest
(Flight's cause) howe're lest seem'd from Lying Brest.
More hated, loath'd; there gentler Lines she penn'd
For his own View: deferr'd till Journy's end.
(Ink mix'd with Tears) lest stop'd by th' War debar'd:
Given by Nurse to Boy soon afterward.
When going back, for Duke Verdorus Hand
Well mufled too, lest he should ask, demand
What Face she had, or known by th' Boy descry'd;
Question'd with Threats where th' Lady did reside.

For the Duke Verdorus.

My Lord, your poor Clermanthe's gone;
Tho stragled far, not left alone;
Heaven knows the cause, yet time shall ne're
Dissolve true Daughter's Love, wheree're.
She's Living, Safe; once more may see
Your Walls by gentle Destiny.
Thus, brought by Nurse to th' Lady's Grove, at last,
(Choice, pleasant Seat) kind welcome also past;
As Cousin sent by dying Mother's Will,
Left to her Charge: call'd there Parmena still;
Year nigh consum'd in Solemn way, till now,
With what content hard Fortune would allow.
This briefly told (by us enlarg'd far more)
Some General Points touch'd only i'th' Grove before;
Orsamnes did for Sympathie comply,
Clermanthe sad beheld, whose sober Eye
View'd his again; both struck with wonder there:
Much shorter while, since so conjoyned were:
Their Princely Births and their disastrous Fortunes
Like gentle Loves; the thought whereof importunes.
Sigh, Smile from both. Orsamnes then began,
First silence broke, Dear Madam, with what Train
Of Sorrows, Griefs have you convers'd, thought rather;
Caus'd by that Whore and Charm'd, Seduced Father.
To th' Poisonous cloze, embrac'd her kindly then
'Tis true my Lord; said she with sigh agen.
I've suffer'd much for my young years, howe're;
Stranger to th' World, shew'd newly enter'd there,
Weak Combatant. Madam, did then express
Orsamnes strait; Y'are Crown'd prime Conqueress
As of my Heart; such courage shewn thus far
Wisdom conjoyn'd, both like your Person Rare.
My self have lost those Spirits in sympathising
With your Discourse, I may need cordialising:
One kiss do want for choice restorative
Which, oft obtain'd, did drooping Thoughts revive.
Here shall be joyn'd (as fit) more short Relation
Touching the Duke, Gondace both, Narration.
Of those neat things to th' Lady's Flight o'repast,
When from that Boy her Lines receiv'd, at last:
Brief, calm Farewel; no Poison there exprest,
Lest caus'd more Hatred, Rage in either's Brest.
The Duke did read with troubled thoughts, displeasure,
Bad, secret Qualm Gondace shewn at leasure.)
Since strange departure seem'd of only Child,
Which might for worth deserving Gem be styl'd.
But strong Self-Love, close, wanton Flame endear'd,
Gondace's Charms those Vapors largely clear'd.
Caus'd great Allay, since discontentment found
Through their delight conceiv'd th' o're-powerful Ground.
Deep Grudg withal Gondace gain'd that Favour,
High room, regard; still meat of dainty'st Savour.
For Poisonous Plot, no glance upon that Score,
Nor had believ'd such painted Masque she wore.
Thus calm'd best way his Thoughts, that since one House
Fayl'd to contain them both with friendly Brows;
She prov'd withdrawn; no Clashing Jars, Contest
Through Envy, Pride, was safe her Lines exprest.
Conjoyn'd withal She might return again,
Those Fogs dispell'd (perchance) which seiz'd her Brain.
Mean time, he thought, that Jewel-box supply'd
For use, expense, large heap of Gold beside:
Gondace too seem'd griev'd she so was Hated;
By cunning Arts th' Offence still aggravated.
Tho known her self grand Cause, foul guilty Soul.
No news heard of the Broth, she thought the whole
By th' Dog devour'd, who might through Nature there
Seem Dead, Disease; Glad that she's Gone howe're.
Tho was confirm'd, that She could all outface
To th' Fonder Duke preserve her wonted Grace.
For Death, that Task might soon performed be,
Through Grief, Mischance, despair by Destiny,
Four Months dissolv'd, the Duke with thoughtful Brain
More Poizing all, for Temperance again.
First Marry'd life; now either way had prov'd;
Nor could that Pearl discharge, so much belov'd:
And wanting Son withal, one former Dead,
(Fond, eager grown thereof) strong Fancy bred,
Heaven would more his last desire befriend,
Upon that Ground to's Mistriss condescend:
Good fruitful Soil Gondace thought as Fair;
Under sixteen Brisoldan's self She bare.
Those things once mov'd, no want of heightning Charms
Suckled they seem'd 'tween proud Gondace's Arms.
Thus, by consent, both joyned were together,
Man, Wife indeed; no Pompous business neither;
'Twas stoln, conceal'd from all but Houshold-eyes,
Since no great cause to vaunt of such a Prize:
Enough 'twas done grand Fortune's wealthy Sum,
Good, honest Choice more stately Forms become.
Gondace now did mount that Glorious Tow'r,
Prime Orb she aimed at that Dismal hour.
When thought t'expell his Wife Eugena's Breath
By Poisonous Art (two years before her Death
Long pause endur'd) she's plac'd i'th' Dutchess-row,
For gorgeous Pomp th' Arcadian Queen might show.
Bad News whereof Morneda fail'd to send
(Clermanthe's Nurse) lest more should griefs extend.
Both thinking on that Evening-task behind
Two Letters came; for th' Uncle first design'd
In Pastor-grange; the Prince Orontes last:
They walk'd to th' Rocky Cell, lest time o'repast.
Timondes said, he hop'd they had that hour
Well chear'd, refresh'd themselves ith' Garden-Bow'r.
They told him yet: good the open ayr, clear Sky
With Azure Cheek the Place did Beautify.
'Twas branch'd serene 'gainst Beams withal, well spread,
Th' Hermit conjoyn'd; tho ne're was Courtier bred.
Like that base Uncle of mine, yet I have us'd
Great Courtiers company; not scorn'd, refus'd
By th' Prince Orontes self at twenty's Age;
E're woo'd his Wife; when we did both ingage
For Fellow-Travellers, (mine thirty tho)
First year abroad eat, drank together so:
Parting with him on farthest Persian Ground:
Orsamnes known by Fame, brave Youth, Renown'd.
That former time with Duke Verdorus too
I've Hunted, Boul'd, ere his fair Wife did Woo,
Eugene call'd. They answer'd; he might be
(In smiling way) worthy of such company.
Joyn'd other talk; for stepping forth alone
He ask'd their leave; when both more chearful grown.
Those Words observed, consulting strait for best,
Resolv'd their Case should be to Him exprest.
Their names withal, since lik'd their Host so well:
Beyond Dervan conceiv'd that private Cell;
If found franck Offer made (their strong conceit)
Till th' Uncle could inform of grange-retreat
Timondes view'd, they told him who they were;
Their skulking aim, Dervan, short while howe're.
When he with Joy Orsamnes did imbrace,
Then kiss'd her Hand; pray'd them command that Place.
Whole Week, if pleas'd: Widow there was dwelt nigh,
Wash'd Cloaths and made his Bed, for Food supply.
Should charge that Clown which kept his Winter-grange.
Mile off, Dervan; conjoyn'd, what pleasing change
They lik'd cold meat; by her inform'd, 'Twas so,
For Corinth-friends; themselves withdrawing tho
To th' Garden Bow'r (nor known by her) and she
Should bear their Letters Seal'd conveniently.
Thanks given; Pen, Ink, Paper brought, they fall
To th' writing work, shewn nimble speed withall.
To th' Uncle first; his worthy Choice declar'd,
Then help desir'd; some place tho mean prepar'd
For their Retreat till Fathers mind compos'd;
Sent by some Swain that Note to him inclos'd:
Pray'd th' Uncle to Appais: directed well,
He there should find them both in th' Hermits Cell.
To's Father, last, penn'd these few Lines alone,
Soft, gentler way, as tho for Travel gone.

For the Prince Orontes.

My Lord, being Noble, Young, much tir'd
Through Pastor's Life, Travel desir'd,
I beg your Pardon for short space;
Shun'd dangerous, Remoter place:
Those Virgins, which may worthy prove,
I cannot grant Conjugal Love:
That Widow knock'd at Gate, convenient hour
(Her custom, use,) who, by Timondes power,
Conjoyn'd their large reward, was well inclin'd,
(Both call'd Corinthian Guests) for th' walk design'd.
'Twas soon agreed: three Miles (we said before)
It was to th' Grove, to th' Uncle's Grange two more:
Prime Evening then, May-day; those Letters were
Took nimbly thus, with plain Directions there.
Now, Reader, from that Hermitage a while
To th' Pastor-coast transferr'd our Ranging Style,
Those Actions there this days grand Festival;
What Offering prov'd, joyn'd Rural sports withal.
For Pan design'd, this Flocks Protector nam'd,
Near to ten's hour by signal Noise proclaim'd.
They Sacrific'd on large, convenient Mount
(From whence did flow their God's exalted Fount.)
Twelve choicest Kids, twelve white selected Lambs,
With Garlands dress'd of Flowers (their bleating Dams.
Whilst mourn'd their Loss) Milk, Frankincense and Wine,
Some lively Youths did joyntly then combine
To louder Musick's sound in chearful Dance
Round th' Altar there, both heels and Hearts Advance;
Devotion thought: their Feast at noon o'reflowing:
Then, th' After-time in Country-games bestowing.
These Rural-Strifes, which Greeks did well regard,
Performed were, prize joyn'd for each, reward.
First Running prov'd; who, thinly cloath'd like Ayr,
Could formost touch the Post, adorn'd made fair.
With Ribbons, Flowers; that nimble way excell'd.
Next Wrestling was; who most to th' ground compell'd
By strength and Art; could braveli'st Foyl, o'rethrow
May Lady should keep either Prize, bestow;
Choice for that Year; like Princes rang'd in State:
Persons set by to Judge and Arbitrate.
Musick conjoyn'd; who, for their ear well-mounted
On Scaffold rais'd, was skilful thence accounted;
Could sweetly th' Harp, Pipe, Cithron, voice, command;
Bay-wreaths alone, took from their Lady's hand.
For close of all; whoe're in handsom Verse,
View'd on that Stage could well pronounce, reherse
Their great god Pan's their Love's, or Pastor's praises,
Those Poets style with Crown of Laurel graces.
The choicer Ground, large Theatre for these
Was Verdant Plain, whose sides by slow degrees
Increas'd to small, thin-planted Hills, from whom
Pure streaming Founts, like Daughters of their Womb,
Broke gently forth; not Born to th' world before;
Whilst Brooks beneath that Champain Wander'd o're.
Square Plot there was, with Palms inviron'd high,
All but Fore-parts that void for the Ear and Eye;
Plank'd Galleries conjoyn'd, their backs inclos'd;
Top like some Bow'r for Nimphs and Swains compos'd.
The Widow reach'd that Grove, walk'd strait from thence
To th' Pastor's Ground, fit times convenience.
Well came to th' Lord Thersander's Grange, (so prov'd
That Uncle call'd) much valu'd Man belov'd.
She found him there, return'd from Rural sport;
Who, dwelling far (Past former Life) from Court,
Liv'd too withdrawn; no medler in the State,
High, publick things, which oft to Envy, hate
Does more expose; yet since his Wife there dy'd,
Times doubtful thought, for Pastor's Grange comply'd:
One void by chance (those Farms forementioned
By th' Owners left, laid by through Age, or Dead;
Prov'd also near) allay'd his Brother's Sorrow;
Since for Himself small comfort need to borrow.
Prime, chearful heart, as stout, resolv'd withal
What chance soe'er; more Frankly liberal:
Industrious for his Friend, there strongly Loving;
As faithful found, rare poized Temper proving:
Young, handsom Widower, had then no Child;
Might (well set forth) dear Uncle (last) be styl'd.
Was talking then (return'd) in pleasing way
With's House-keeper o'th' Rural Games that day;
Fair Virgin 'twas, well born, well bred beside,
Wife's Cousin-german prov'd, so near ally'd;
With whom she sojourned, by both esteem'd:
Since her Decease: this Lord so worthy deem'd
For Rank and Parts, next, kind Regard so great;
That she conjoyned in this Change, Retreat,
(Whose newness both did please) as Friend became;
Mild, gentle shew'd, Florena call'd by name.
Thirsander read those Lines, for gallant Choice,
By's Nephew there declar'd, did much rejoice:
Approv'd that way, withdrawn; as Travel'd so;
Wrote nimbly back Florena of Council tho)
His strong belief for Place, as they desir'd,
With Country-friend twenty miles off, retir'd:
Should thither Ride, howe'er; inform them well
Third day ere night within their Hermit-Cell:
She thus return'd; that Note inclos'd, by Swain,
Was sent to th' Prince Orontes Farm again.
The Prince that time did tread those pleasing Grounds,
Conjoyned lay, in whose small Pastor-bounds
Kingdom conceiv'd; with calmer thoughts surveigh'd
His wandring Flock, where harmlesness display'd
Mild innocence: those Flow'r-deck'd Banks beheld,
Spruce branched trees, where Natures work excell'd.
Courts proud and gaudy'st Art: there Christal stream
Did slide along, Glass to the Sun's Gold beam.
Soft Murmur's noise; whilst Springs Musicians sounded
May-carols forth, with Azure Sky surrounded.
Whose general Calm comply'd with thoughtful Brest,
If its own Heart enjoy'd, free way possest.
He had much Action shar'd disastrous Passion,
Now subject found for sober Contemplation:
Had read large World of Men, might study there
The whole Globe it self Celestial Hemisphere.
Prime Model thought; did nature's Map afford,
Grand Volumn, Book, each Leaf with wonders stor'd.
Page, Line thereof, but that so common view'd
He causes, grounds of things could name, conclude;
Their Order, use observe, more private pleasure;
Then best enjoy'd that Phylosophic Treasure.
Conjoyned Thoughts withal where day doth Range,
Or night succeed, dispers'd Scense of Change;
I'th' Monstrous Deep, four wandring Seasons shewn,
Like Fortunes of Mankind; such prov'd his Own.
When after all those later Griefs would rise,
Like damping Fume, or gloomy Cloud surprize.
Last Cross appear'd, Orsamnes found so slow,
Where Wifely Choice prime Persons rare did show.
(Their Fathers worth to th' height esteem'd, commended)
And with unpleasantness on him attended
To either's Farm; as they by th' Fathers (taught)
To his own Grange for conversation brought:
Orsamnes where allow'd (though free from Courting)
Fit, kind Regards, which prov'd to them Transporting.
Nor swell'd those Rival-girls, since the one at least,
Merdone nam'd, of milder, gentle Brest:
Their worthy Fathers too, well temper'd Men,
Still kept th' old friendly League unbroken then.
That Evening both the Prince saluted there;
Thersander (last) conjoyn'd part did bear.
All came to th' Grange; that Notes deliver'd strait,
By Shepherd brought; Thersander's Order late:
When read the same, his eyes did Wrath disclose,
Joyn'd angry Words; bad Fume from Spleen arose;
Then, chang'd that way, he thoughtful, sad appear'd;
First, absent Son belov'd, whose Danger fear'd:
Next, Marriage-aim destroy'd, where Choice design'd
One of those Girls. Thersander, they combin'd.
To calm his thoughts, each part well varnish'd o're;
For Travel, said, 'Twas done same way before
By's Grandfather (which thing the Prince confest)
Short time, no dangerous place, that note exprest.
Orsamnes too, the Prince conjoyned there
Much Gold receiv'd his Travell's charge to bear.
Thersander's mind shewn plainly thus to th' view,
Dorsin, Vernon took their Farwells, withdrew.
Nor ended so; Philaura, nam'd of late,
Worse Torment seiz'd through Love's dispairing Fate;
Who, from her Glass more Beauty's stock descrying,
Prime handsome Girl, each Shepherdess outvying.
May-Lady call'd last Year (Merdone tho
This day their Choice might almost equal show)
Wit's stronger Parts, and for confirming Ground,
More kind respects from Duke Orsamnes found,
As she conceiv'd; high Spirit (last) did prove;
Bred more Ambitious Dreams conjoyn'd with Love.
To Bow'r withdrawn, where Gales soft murmur made,
(Whilst th' Envying Sun last pleasing Glance display'd)
Through sober thoughts; her Father was o're-heard
To tell that News; with which like Thunder scar'd,
Heart's Qualm began, that rather seem'd to bleed;
Strange Soul-convulsion felt, Hope's gasp indeed.
She louder Sigh'd, then wept Love-Storm as't were,
Deep Groan the last: but being less private there.
Small Garden 'twas, She mounts from thence back-way
To th' Chamber, Bed, whereon Prostrated lay.
Sighs, Tears, and Groans increas'd to mournful Sum,
As lost th' whole World, Grief's perfect Draught become.
She nought beheld but brave Orsamne's Face
Her Fancy saw, Portray'd in every place.
There last she view'd his Person thought; and there
Last heard him speak; such looks for wounding were.
Bright Darts and Flames; such, such his words then found,
Love's Musick Notes, Harmonious Compound:
There last he spake to her, joyn'd kiss-salute
Pleas'd that Sense too; what Sighs did breath compute.
What Groans for them, by Turn, as those should prove
Loud Funeral-Knells to all her Joys of Love.
Tongue rouz'd at length, tho seem'd in part to Fail,
She thus began: prime wonder of the Vale
Of Greece, the whole World (paus'd there) O most refin'd,
Choicest of men, but hard withal, unkind.
Thy Conquest Trophies, to our Anguish, smarts,
On Maiden Ruins built, and, broken Hearts.
I sent thee mine, which, tho discharg'd to day,
Ne're whole return'd; 'twas broken by the way:
Such here it proves: That Heart, once Ayr-like Free,
Now worn Tormenting Chains; loath'd Destiny!
Nor Marvel thought since seiz'd by Love-distraction:
I hop'd too much; with Hope conjoyned-action.
Too much I look'd, alas! too strangely Lov'd,
Fond, easie Soul: till Freedom Blasted prov'd.
Weep, weep my Traitor-Eyes, in kindness now
O'reflow and Drown me quite; sigh Breast till thou
Want'st Ayr to breath; rend, break my Heart outright;
But live Orsamnes still, enjoy this Light.
O Love! thou worst of Tyrant-Lords, to whom
Death mild appears! how lingring, slow thy Doom!
True Lovers oft in Torment, pain surpass
The rest o'th' World, die ten fold o're, alas!
Not Lov'd again: groan'd there for sad Rejection,
Then Mus'd, streight, thought of each rare Perfection;
His Body more advanc'd by far, and Mind,
Thus (lost) new-rated all, as Love inclin'd.
Week's term expir'd, more strange resolve possess'd
(Shewn afterwards) her Wave-distempered Breast.
That other Nimph, mean while, Merdone nam'd,
More humble Girl, of calmer Temper fram'd;
Less smooth'd by Hope (Choice, Beauteous tho to th' eye)
Could better far with Grief's sad weight comply;
Such Fortune bear, tho Lov'd as well she;
Since loftier thoughts may raise the Storms degree.
Sigh'd, wept her Sorrows forth in Gloomy Bow'rs,
Like April's gentle Blasts and sober Showrs.
This far that Pair: tho seem'd revived now
Silvanor's Heart, with Love-perplexed Brow;
Philaura's Servant long; began to feed
More chearful hopes: same did Montanus breed,
Mordone's that; both born Gentile howere
Their Fathers with the Prince turn'd Pastors there.
Liv'd in one Farm with single Pastor then,
Both Widowers (these th' Heirs) well-landed men:
Choice, gallant Youths, for each regard might shew;
Much darkned through Orsamnes Glory tho,
From Suit refrain'd, Transcendent Rival-fearing:
In Looks (Glass-like portray'd) their thoughts appearing.
Writ Poems (last) where those young Virgins shin'd
Terrestrial Stars. To these by voice assign'd,
Since Conquerors, that running wrestlers prize
May-day, last year; when Pan's great Feast did rize.
Took from Philaura's hand, May Lady then;
All newly come to th' Pastor-Farms, tho mean.
This Day Merdone She; from whom Both gain'd
Their Laurel wreaths, for Musick, Verse obtain'd.
We shall Revisit now (still safe and well)
That Princely Pair within their Hermits Cell
When Seven's Hour, Timondes spreads his Table
With cleanly Cloath, such Food, as he was able.
(Good, wholsom kind) did Range before them there;
First, Cold Bak'd meat, Cheese, Butter in the Rere:
Wish'd Frankly eat, meats for th' whole Week beside:
(If th' are dispos'd) soon from Dervan supply'd.
Both thanks return'd, whilst hightned more their Food
Strangeness o'th' Place, wing'd Chanters from the Wood.
Their Supper done, Both walk'd forth contented
To view the Ground, thus briefly represented.
Large Green there was, Long-square i'th' midst did rest
Small, handsome Pond, four-squared Form exprest.
Clear, smooth as Glass; 'bout that low Mount was rais'd
For broader Walk; the sides adorned, prais'd.
Through well set, comely Trees; those order'd so,
That every Third did pleasant Fruit-tree grow.
Like Gems to th' Rest, or painted part, as 'twere,
First glanced or might Orchard-Grove appear.
Beneath that Bank, on each enlarged side
(Since Mount long square) good open space descry'd.
Flat, verdant green, did single Arbour stand
Of Laurel, Bays, which Winter-blasts command;
Still Freshly branch'd, conjoyned close to th' Wall:
Same planted Trees set round that Fence withal;
Mixt Cipress there; and near to one of them,
(That side o'th' Cell) small Fount from Rock did stream,
Adorn'd by Art, tho something Wild, o'regrown:
At foot beneath, where Watry Cistern shown,
Nine Muses Carv'd beheld, in Silvan Dress,
With Instruments joyn'd consort to express:
Apollo's self (then Patron) higher rais'd;
Whilst from the Top rude, wanton Satyrs gaz'd.
At either end o'th' Bank (still space between)
I'th' Flat beneath, where thorow Prospect seen.
On every Part small closer Walk beheld,
Whose length went cross to the Gate-side excell'd.
With flaunting Palms, their tops like Roof combin'd;
That noblest Branch for Conqerors design'd.
'Twas large and various Ground; first open space
Led from the door to th' Hermit's dwelling-place.
Bank by the Wall prov'd here and there beset
With Corans, Roses, Paunsey, Violet.
Clermanthe found in this unlook'd-for Sight
(Joyn'd Nature, Art) Orsamnes both delight.
Not much past Nine (still lusty, ancient tho)
Their Woman knoc'd, Thirsander's Note did show:
Both nimbly read those Lines (by th' Hermit heard)
Contentful way; gave the Agent great Reward.
Orsamnes then declar'd, of Virgin-vow
His Wife had made three Weeks remained now;
He therefore would sad Fancy charm, delight,
And Feign at least that prov'd his Bridal night.
Clermanthe Blush'd, their Landlord smil'd withal;
Orsamnes when to's pleasing Task did fall.
Cropt several Flowers, wherewith that verdant Ground
Did flaunting shew, till gather'd choice Compound.
Clermanthe then (whilst th' Hermit led the way,
Grave Father-like) to th' Cell did guard, convey.
In formal sort, Saluted her at Door;
Then finely strewed with Paunseys round the Floor.
Pinks, Violets; Rose deck'd the Marriage-Bed:
Clean Pillow-bear provided for her Head.
Want of Night-cloaths; which being worn at Home,
(Choice couching Garb) did rarely well become.
The Duke seem'd active tho, as for that end
Pull'd off her Hood; did Handmaid-like attend.
Reach'd, holds the Glass; till caus'd in her that fashion
Sweet, sobrest Blush through strong imagination.
He leads her Bridegroom-like, prepared so,
To th' larger Bed, where couched down might show.
Shot Lightning-flash, or falling Star expos'd:
Whilst th' Hermit sat with's Friendly Chair inclos'd.
Thus, Curtains drawn 'twixt them, Timondes there;
Still Window's Light Clermanthe's Face howere
Thence to behold; he lay down by her side;
Both in their Cloaths; warm season well comply'd:
Grasp'd her in's Arms, whilst Silver Moon that hour
With Fainter Beams adorn'd the Rocky Bowr.
Blush strain'd into her Cheeks, least then might prove
Years Vow forgot: those formost Fruits of Love:
In Kisses seiz'd, which should his thoughts content;
Nere in that way (so free, so excellent)
Enjoy'd before, for Posture's pleasantness,
Time, Pillow, Bed; Bridal resemblances.
Her Beauties sparkled round, those fairest eyes
(On Gloomy Couch) like Morning-Stars when rise.
Or Rosie blushing East when Break of Day,
Her Cheeks and Lips conjoyn'd did shew, display.
Timondes slept that while, good Honest Heart,
Becalmed thoughts, till bare, Loud snorting Part.
At later Hours, the Rest themselves dispos'd
Conforming Both, their Gallant Eyes they clos'd.
Come gentle sleep, bind this Transcendent Pair
In Silken Bands, most beautiful and fair
Of all thy drousie Realm (with Slumbers now
Bedew'd their Eyes) since to thy Scepter bow.
Give Cordial-like Repast, no strange Offence,
Unpleasing noise disturb their quiet Sense.
Here Joyned more touching that Shepherdess,
Fair Nimph Gentile, who Mourn'd in sad Distress.
Philaura call'd, Belov'd Orsamnes gon;
Ere break of day this Plot resolv'd upon:
Close walk by stealth to th' Vestal Nunnery,
Far distant Place, known vow'd Society
Of Heathen Maids (such found in Rome, elsewhere)
For Chaster minds, reserv'd provided there.
She would make One; by th' Father tho discry'd
They Lock'd her up, persuasion-salves apply'd
To cure this last Disease; broke forth in View:
Silvanor whilst for Love did strangely Sue:
Pastor Gentile, which mourn'd for her before;
Tho hid, conceal'd; Advanc'd upon that Score.
By Parents, Friends, since might her thoughts reclaim
From Vestal mood, and th' old disastrous Flame.
Such th' other too, Montanus call'd exprest;
Still constant serv'd Merdone's gentle Breast,
Soon noised was Orsamnes Voyage round,
Who then whole year upon that Pastor-ground
Had dwelt reserv'd. A second Festival
Third day did prove, to Ceres due withal;
Goddess of Corn; performed chearful fashion:
In th' Afternoon us'd Sports for Celebration.
Prime Shepherds did short Masque-device invent,
The Lord Orsamnes Praise to represent.
(So much belov'd, esteem'd) Spruce for th' Attire;
Worn Flowry wreaths, the best of their Voice-Quire.
Silvanor and Montanus Song compos'd.
Fram'd Notes and Words, each Stave with Chorus clos'd.

SONG.

Song ended thus, their nimblest Youth and Art
All shew'd in Masquing Dance, for second part;
Loud Musick's Noise; as would perform thereby
Some Court-exploit for th' Ear and gazing Eye.
Orsamnes health then Marched stoutly round,
Triumphant way, to th' clearer Cornets sound.
Whist Hills and Rocks, like chanting Eccho's station,
Did Partners seem conjoyn'd for Celebration.
That drunk by all, one of their Masquing Train,
Great Friend to Shepherds, Sheep, with chearful Brain
These Words pronounc'd (Osamnes since dispos'd
That Life to leave) set Speech; their praise disclos'd.
Kind Brothers of the Flock, to gentle whom
(Grand Patrons thought) for constant dwellings come.
Peace, Quietness, joyn'd harmless Innocence;
There seek protecting Roofs, find shelter thence.
If any where. O Choice, contentful Life!
Unus'd to Jars, that boiling envious Strife
Of haughty Courts, their Wanton Luxury
Proud, gorgeous Pomp withal; from Projects free.
No painted Vizards worn, but th' inward heart
And outward Face alike; match'd either part:
Kings have left Thrones by your retreat befriended;
As Swains from you have Kingly Thrones ascended.
Then chose they strait, for well conjoyned pleasure,
Prime Virgins there at hand, danc'd Rural measure.
Whilst Grandsires nodded off, talk'd are and o're,
Themselves had done the like in Youth, and more.
Now for the Court we shall advance more high;
To that young King our Pen conform, apply,
Whoso the Prince Disgrac'd; Acts there declare:
Great Lords conjoyn'd, some strange, as various are:
But if too Long conceiv'd, o'repass, refrain;
Third Book presents our Chief, large Story again.