The Grecian Story Being an Historical Poem, in Five Books. To which is Annex'd The Grove: Consisting of Divers Shorter Poems upon several Subjects. By J. H. [i.e. John Harington] |
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The Story of Orsamnes.
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 | The Grecian Story |  |
The Story of Orsamnes.
His Father was a Prince, of great Estate,
High Parts conjoyn'd; withal unfortunate:
Might Kingdom claim; whose Grandfather did wear
Thessalian Crown, but, lost through Conquest there.
Fled to this Realm; to th' King by Match ally'd.
Stout, gallant Spirit this Prince enjoy'd beside;
Not Rash howere; Commander's Heart and Brain:
Frank, bounteous Hand, belov'd by Vulgar Train
Grand State-affairs could manage, bear as well
As Titles weight; in Nobler Points excel.
Much Travel'd had, then sought at Home Repose
(Now Forty four) prime Person joyn'd to those;
Orontes call'd. By th' former King was deem'd
His Realm's defence, choice Guardian esteem'd;
And so with other Offices (where gain'd
Much Honour, wealth) Lord General ordain'd.
For th' Active part, did thrice o'recome, defeat
Laconians strength (proud Borderers) tho great,
In dreadful War. Third Battle fought, howere,
Orsamnes Deeds prov'd Memorable there;
Nineteen for Age, yet had so much of Man.
Joyn'd Souldier both, to lead their Army's Van:
Did prime Exploit, when through fresh Troops supply
The Foe rush'd boldly on, Shout rais'd to th' Sky,
His falling back, Himself inviron'd then
(Some Captains more) fought 'gainst a Croud of men,
That courage, Valour shewn; cut forth a Way
For safe Retreat, strait Rally'd all that day,
Charg'd, routed them; the Prince main Body led;
Took Banners store, the ground with Slaughter spread:
This Younger Act Orsamnes Fame encreas'd,
Two years ago; when that old King Deceas'd.
High Parts conjoyn'd; withal unfortunate:
Might Kingdom claim; whose Grandfather did wear
Thessalian Crown, but, lost through Conquest there.
Fled to this Realm; to th' King by Match ally'd.
Stout, gallant Spirit this Prince enjoy'd beside;
Not Rash howere; Commander's Heart and Brain:
Frank, bounteous Hand, belov'd by Vulgar Train
Grand State-affairs could manage, bear as well
As Titles weight; in Nobler Points excel.
Much Travel'd had, then sought at Home Repose
(Now Forty four) prime Person joyn'd to those;
Orontes call'd. By th' former King was deem'd
His Realm's defence, choice Guardian esteem'd;
And so with other Offices (where gain'd
Much Honour, wealth) Lord General ordain'd.
For th' Active part, did thrice o'recome, defeat
Laconians strength (proud Borderers) tho great,
In dreadful War. Third Battle fought, howere,
Orsamnes Deeds prov'd Memorable there;
Nineteen for Age, yet had so much of Man.
Joyn'd Souldier both, to lead their Army's Van:
Did prime Exploit, when through fresh Troops supply
The Foe rush'd boldly on, Shout rais'd to th' Sky,
His falling back, Himself inviron'd then
(Some Captains more) fought 'gainst a Croud of men,
26
For safe Retreat, strait Rally'd all that day,
Charg'd, routed them; the Prince main Body led;
Took Banners store, the ground with Slaughter spread:
This Younger Act Orsamnes Fame encreas'd,
Two years ago; when that old King Deceas'd.
Thus shin'd the Prince like glorious Constellation
For Fifteen Years, till dark Eclips, privation
By this young King th' unworthy Son, at last;
Oreclouded strait with Divorce more disgrac'd:
Minions advanc'd like Stars about the Throne,
Which errors daub'd, his Vice could fawn upon;
Did Meteors prove, with feigned Beams appear;
Whereas the Prince still truely blazed there
To th' Grecian World. The Story, fortunes thus
Of's Grandfather shall be declar'd by us.
For Fifteen Years, till dark Eclips, privation
By this young King th' unworthy Son, at last;
Oreclouded strait with Divorce more disgrac'd:
Minions advanc'd like Stars about the Throne,
Which errors daub'd, his Vice could fawn upon;
Did Meteors prove, with feigned Beams appear;
Whereas the Prince still truely blazed there
To th' Grecian World. The Story, fortunes thus
Of's Grandfather shall be declar'd by us.
Thessalies King he prov'd, an old Greek Nation,
Achilles Soyl, of famous Celebration;
Chief Town Larissa there whose Borders be
By th' Corinth-Sea disjoyn'd from Arcadie
Was Brother's Son to th' former King, no more
Then Daughter left, by Law Debar'd therefore;
No Women there to Raign; Bergonda nam'd;
With haughty Brest, was Handsom too proclaim'd.
He seized thus the Crown, of Noble Mind
And Parts Himself, with graceful Form combin'd.
Achilles Soyl, of famous Celebration;
Chief Town Larissa there whose Borders be
By th' Corinth-Sea disjoyn'd from Arcadie
Was Brother's Son to th' former King, no more
Then Daughter left, by Law Debar'd therefore;
No Women there to Raign; Bergonda nam'd;
With haughty Brest, was Handsom too proclaim'd.
He seized thus the Crown, of Noble Mind
And Parts Himself, with graceful Form combin'd.
Some half years Raign orepast, Important Reason,
Friends too conjoyn'd (disposed well that Season)
To move that Princess for his Wife incited;
Thought Safe, secure their Persons so united.
But such the Chance, she then contracted prov'd
To one o'th' greatest Lords, by her Belov'd:
Wherefore she would not break those former Vows,
Nor change her Choice; soon after did Espouse.
Friends too conjoyn'd (disposed well that Season)
To move that Princess for his Wife incited;
Thought Safe, secure their Persons so united.
But such the Chance, she then contracted prov'd
To one o'th' greatest Lords, by her Belov'd:
Wherefore she would not break those former Vows,
Nor change her Choice; soon after did Espouse.
He scarce had Raign'd whole Year, when thus th' Event:
That Lord grown Strong for Party eminent
To th' Neighbour-King of Macedon Ally'd;
His Wife great Spirit too conjoyn'd with Pride;
Ambitious Both; her Father, (last) th' old King
Much Lov'd, esteem'd, thence more encouraging;
They shew'd their Aym t' usurp the Crown, Design:
Which soon perceiv'd, (nor Grateful to Resign)
The King prepar'd t' Oppose withal Prevent:
But this advanc'd their Treasonous thoughts, intent,
They found at Councel-board a Traytor-friend;
And Second near his Person did Attend.
Such proves great Princes Fate sometimes; Those told
His Secrets oft, State-Cabinet controul'd;
By which grand loss through Ambush-Plots devis'd:
Strong Towns and Forts by sleights Betray'd, surpriz'd:
Much sunk and weakned so: It came ere long
From Skirmishes to Battles Armed throng,
That Game of Blood: where sent him no supply
Th' Arcadian King, tho Friendly, near Ally;
Wars with Laconia then; whilst th' other ayded
From Macedon. But ere that time, perswaded,
Doubts of th' Event, huge, massy Sum (unknown
To th' Traytors there) he sent by Night alone
To's trusty Friend near Corinth-Sea, that Shore,
Where ready Bark for swift Transport before.
That Lord grown Strong for Party eminent
To th' Neighbour-King of Macedon Ally'd;
His Wife great Spirit too conjoyn'd with Pride;
Ambitious Both; her Father, (last) th' old King
Much Lov'd, esteem'd, thence more encouraging;
They shew'd their Aym t' usurp the Crown, Design:
Which soon perceiv'd, (nor Grateful to Resign)
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But this advanc'd their Treasonous thoughts, intent,
They found at Councel-board a Traytor-friend;
And Second near his Person did Attend.
Such proves great Princes Fate sometimes; Those told
His Secrets oft, State-Cabinet controul'd;
By which grand loss through Ambush-Plots devis'd:
Strong Towns and Forts by sleights Betray'd, surpriz'd:
Much sunk and weakned so: It came ere long
From Skirmishes to Battles Armed throng,
That Game of Blood: where sent him no supply
Th' Arcadian King, tho Friendly, near Ally;
Wars with Laconia then; whilst th' other ayded
From Macedon. But ere that time, perswaded,
Doubts of th' Event, huge, massy Sum (unknown
To th' Traytors there) he sent by Night alone
To's trusty Friend near Corinth-Sea, that Shore,
Where ready Bark for swift Transport before.
Both Armies joyn'd, much doubtful Conquest there;
Whilst Fortune with uncertain Wings (as 'twere)
Hover'd aloft: Till Party o'th' Lord's o'restrong,
Forc'd Squadron o'th' King's Horse upon the Throng
Of their own Foot; much Broke, Disorder'd so:
Reserve o'th' King's beside (for greater blow)
Joyn'd to the Lord: down rould the stream withal
Like Floods by th' Wind: more sad; their General
(Brave, valiant Man) fighting amongst the Croud
Was slain i'th' Back; by whom (as under Cloud)
None could Affirm: by's Own conceiv'd Betray'd:
When Total Rout, next, Flight ensu'd Dismay'd.
Whilst Fortune with uncertain Wings (as 'twere)
Hover'd aloft: Till Party o'th' Lord's o'restrong,
Forc'd Squadron o'th' King's Horse upon the Throng
Of their own Foot; much Broke, Disorder'd so:
Reserve o'th' King's beside (for greater blow)
Joyn'd to the Lord: down rould the stream withal
Like Floods by th' Wind: more sad; their General
(Brave, valiant Man) fighting amongst the Croud
Was slain i'th' Back; by whom (as under Cloud)
None could Affirm: by's Own conceiv'd Betray'd:
When Total Rout, next, Flight ensu'd Dismay'd.
The King (not far) being soon Inform'd, took Flight,
Reach'd with some Few that faithful Friend by Night;
His Mass of Gold embarqu'd (with's Treasure free)
Cross'd o're that narrow Sea to Arcadie.
There purchas'd great Estate, held Kingly Style;
Made also Arcadian Duke, in shorter while
Young Lady chose, his Son call'd Prince; as now
To th' Grandchild that (Orontes there) Allow;
Orsamnes Duke. The Arcadian King that time
Miseni rul'd, with all that Western Clime
To th' Adrian Main; th' Isles Samos, Ithaca;
On South rich Isle of Rhodes. Laconia
Made Argos then (to th' Corinth-bounds) obey;
Th' Isls o're against it in the Ægean Sea.
Reach'd with some Few that faithful Friend by Night;
His Mass of Gold embarqu'd (with's Treasure free)
Cross'd o're that narrow Sea to Arcadie.
There purchas'd great Estate, held Kingly Style;
Made also Arcadian Duke, in shorter while
Young Lady chose, his Son call'd Prince; as now
To th' Grandchild that (Orontes there) Allow;
Orsamnes Duke. The Arcadian King that time
Miseni rul'd, with all that Western Clime
To th' Adrian Main; th' Isles Samos, Ithaca;
On South rich Isle of Rhodes. Laconia
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Th' Isls o're against it in the Ægean Sea.
For Close of all: That Counsellor of State,
Vile, treacherous, was by false Wife (just Fate)
Betray'd Himself; who to Appaise Desire
In second Spouse, did Villain fee, Conspire
To Murther him: Strip'd then and seiz'd his Gold,
'Twas thought by Thievs: Chance soon did all unfold.
That Rogue, ere long, was Hang'd for's Robbing trade;
Confest this Fact at Death, plain, open lay'd
By each chief Circumstance; a Note her Hand
And Seal produc'd, which did with Murther brand.
So lost her Head, that Trayt'rous Courtier there,
Till from his Horse, when Scull did broke appear:
Vile, treacherous, was by false Wife (just Fate)
Betray'd Himself; who to Appaise Desire
In second Spouse, did Villain fee, Conspire
To Murther him: Strip'd then and seiz'd his Gold,
'Twas thought by Thievs: Chance soon did all unfold.
That Rogue, ere long, was Hang'd for's Robbing trade;
Confest this Fact at Death, plain, open lay'd
By each chief Circumstance; a Note her Hand
And Seal produc'd, which did with Murther brand.
So lost her Head, that Trayt'rous Courtier there,
Till from his Horse, when Scull did broke appear:
To th' Prince again: Hence 'twas his Noble Heart
Chief Wound receiv'd, from Wif's conjoyned Part
Clarenza call'd; much Good proclaim'd, as Fair;
Whose Rape believ'd and Death, we shall declare;
Year and Month past, then Thirty five, no more;
Tho May was done, June's gallant form she wore:
Strange manner too thereof, Disast'rous fashion
To th' Loss conceiv'd most Dreadful aggravation.
Chief Wound receiv'd, from Wif's conjoyned Part
Clarenza call'd; much Good proclaim'd, as Fair;
Whose Rape believ'd and Death, we shall declare;
Year and Month past, then Thirty five, no more;
Tho May was done, June's gallant form she wore:
Strange manner too thereof, Disast'rous fashion
To th' Loss conceiv'd most Dreadful aggravation.
Thus prov'd the Chance: Being with her Retir'd
To Country-house, far off, by Both desir'd.
(Near April's month, which then shew'd Spring-like Dress)
For calm Repose since Court-bred Heaviness;
Fine, neat Park-lodg, choice Place for recreation,
Deer, stor'd Ponds, strange Beasts and Fowl, Plantation
From diverse Shores; the Senses Summer-Bow'r:
To Range well pleas'd for Prospect-cause one hour;
Nature's chief Picture-draught, Hills, Dales combin'd,
Groves Chrystal Streams, th' Eyes wand'ring Maze design'd:
They travers'd from their Gardens Postern-dore
In sudden way (small Dog for train, no more)
To th' joyning Park, through that beyond the Fence,
To planted gloomy Walk, few yards from thence;
Soft Gale whilst gently Breath'd, as thought, Unseen.
When Coach, six horses wheel'd along the Green
Behind their Backs, from Shades that border'd there;
Came up to them, Six Armed Men did bear.
Which strait Leap'd down like Thunder-bolts to ground;
Four with drawn Swords (since no Defendants found)
Assayl'd the Prince; whose nimble Poyniard warded
Some Fatal thrusts, his Back with Elm close guarded
Some Deep receiv'd, such Courage, Valour shewn,
Skill, strength conjoyn'd (short Weapons ayd alone)
'Twas wonderful: Help! call'd with strained Breath:
Clarenza's Fortune thought like second Death.
Their Cheif at first (nor Stranger prov'd) thus Crying,
Now, Villian, pay th' old Mortal Score; th' art Dying.
Wide seem'd his Wounds, large Doors resembled there
For Lifes sad Marching forth, whose Colours were
In Blood display'd, Clarenza her Self (Forlorn,
Mouth stop'd with Glove) by th' other Two was born,
With dismal Eyes her Lord beheld, as tho
Would Toss like Balls for last love-tokens so
To their Coach-Den: which by the Comrades espy'd,
They follow'd strait, least Danger chanc'd, Descry'd.
Down fell the Prince; Those joyful Gallop'd on:
Soon after made that Mention'd Walk to groan
Loud Woman's Voice and Page, Two Keepers came;
Sad mournful View. Strange Cry conjoyn'd they frame
To Country-house, far off, by Both desir'd.
(Near April's month, which then shew'd Spring-like Dress)
For calm Repose since Court-bred Heaviness;
Fine, neat Park-lodg, choice Place for recreation,
Deer, stor'd Ponds, strange Beasts and Fowl, Plantation
From diverse Shores; the Senses Summer-Bow'r:
To Range well pleas'd for Prospect-cause one hour;
Nature's chief Picture-draught, Hills, Dales combin'd,
Groves Chrystal Streams, th' Eyes wand'ring Maze design'd:
They travers'd from their Gardens Postern-dore
In sudden way (small Dog for train, no more)
To th' joyning Park, through that beyond the Fence,
To planted gloomy Walk, few yards from thence;
Soft Gale whilst gently Breath'd, as thought, Unseen.
When Coach, six horses wheel'd along the Green
Behind their Backs, from Shades that border'd there;
Came up to them, Six Armed Men did bear.
Which strait Leap'd down like Thunder-bolts to ground;
Four with drawn Swords (since no Defendants found)
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Some Fatal thrusts, his Back with Elm close guarded
Some Deep receiv'd, such Courage, Valour shewn,
Skill, strength conjoyn'd (short Weapons ayd alone)
'Twas wonderful: Help! call'd with strained Breath:
Clarenza's Fortune thought like second Death.
Their Cheif at first (nor Stranger prov'd) thus Crying,
Now, Villian, pay th' old Mortal Score; th' art Dying.
Wide seem'd his Wounds, large Doors resembled there
For Lifes sad Marching forth, whose Colours were
In Blood display'd, Clarenza her Self (Forlorn,
Mouth stop'd with Glove) by th' other Two was born,
With dismal Eyes her Lord beheld, as tho
Would Toss like Balls for last love-tokens so
To their Coach-Den: which by the Comrades espy'd,
They follow'd strait, least Danger chanc'd, Descry'd.
Down fell the Prince; Those joyful Gallop'd on:
Soon after made that Mention'd Walk to groan
Loud Woman's Voice and Page, Two Keepers came;
Sad mournful View. Strange Cry conjoyn'd they frame
Wild, stragling Girl, she call'd to th' Lady round,
No Answer heard but Tongues Redoubled Sound
(False Eccho'd Noise, complaint) which pierc'd her Ear.
Both Beepers strait did raise with Sorrow there,
To th' Lodg transfer Corps-like their Dying Lord;
Whose Soul and Body's joyn'd League, accord
Best care preserves, till Surgeon prime attended.
Some Horsemen scour'd the Plain, those Hills ascended
Woods, Rocks withal seem'd pleas'd to Chant from far
Clarenza's sounded Name, tho senceless are:
Gon now She prov'd. Thus, Parties Feigned still
To th' weak, Orewhelmed Prince that she was Ill;
Through Fright small Feaver caus'd, safe-harbour'd tho;
Inquir'd his Health: Forg'd Letters (lastly) shew
Confirming way; by th' Woman made, whose Pen
Her Lady's Hand well counterfeited then.
No Answer heard but Tongues Redoubled Sound
(False Eccho'd Noise, complaint) which pierc'd her Ear.
Both Beepers strait did raise with Sorrow there,
To th' Lodg transfer Corps-like their Dying Lord;
Whose Soul and Body's joyn'd League, accord
Best care preserves, till Surgeon prime attended.
Some Horsemen scour'd the Plain, those Hills ascended
Woods, Rocks withal seem'd pleas'd to Chant from far
Clarenza's sounded Name, tho senceless are:
Gon now She prov'd. Thus, Parties Feigned still
To th' weak, Orewhelmed Prince that she was Ill;
Through Fright small Feaver caus'd, safe-harbour'd tho;
Inquir'd his Health: Forg'd Letters (lastly) shew
Confirming way; by th' Woman made, whose Pen
Her Lady's Hand well counterfeited then.
Got hopeful Strength in time through pow'rful Art
Disturbed tho for Brain, much Gauled Heart.
Through Wifes grand Loss, since say their Coyn'd Delusion;
Still more Delays, he formed Sad Conclusion
That she was Dead; and as conceiv'd by Day
Such Nightly Dreams would Fancy draw, portray;
New Act those dreadful Thoughts, so strong, that He,
'Twas Truth, affirm'd, like Waking Sense and free.
Disturbed tho for Brain, much Gauled Heart.
Through Wifes grand Loss, since say their Coyn'd Delusion;
Still more Delays, he formed Sad Conclusion
That she was Dead; and as conceiv'd by Day
Such Nightly Dreams would Fancy draw, portray;
30
'Twas Truth, affirm'd, like Waking Sense and free.
Slumb'ring one Night (tho not observ'd) in Bed,
When full-fac'd Moon with fainter Beams bespread
His chamber-walls; near Twelve, that Solemn Hour
Curtains left open wide, large Gazing pow'r
Before him strait (as was conceited) stands
Clarenza's perfect Shape those very Hands
Cheeks, Lips, and Eyes (such Cloaths conjoyn'd) beheld;
Transformed far from That which late Excell'd.
Striking her Brest, where mortal Wounds appear,
She sadly Points to th' Crimson Fountains there,
Torn Garments, Blood. When Furious grown, and wild,
He reach'd to Grasp; Wak'd thereupon, Beguil'd.
Sounds loud her Name, tho call'd to th' fleeting Ayr;
Confirmed Thoughts that should her Ghost declare,
Clarenza's Shade: through Noise came Tumbling then,
Like Goblins too, the Rouz'd, disturbed Men.
When full-fac'd Moon with fainter Beams bespread
His chamber-walls; near Twelve, that Solemn Hour
Curtains left open wide, large Gazing pow'r
Before him strait (as was conceited) stands
Clarenza's perfect Shape those very Hands
Cheeks, Lips, and Eyes (such Cloaths conjoyn'd) beheld;
Transformed far from That which late Excell'd.
Striking her Brest, where mortal Wounds appear,
She sadly Points to th' Crimson Fountains there,
Torn Garments, Blood. When Furious grown, and wild,
He reach'd to Grasp; Wak'd thereupon, Beguil'd.
Sounds loud her Name, tho call'd to th' fleeting Ayr;
Confirmed Thoughts that should her Ghost declare,
Clarenza's Shade: through Noise came Tumbling then,
Like Goblins too, the Rouz'd, disturbed Men.
Thus know the Ground of that sad Chance, Event:
Chief Villain there once pass'd for Eminent;
Was Earl for rank, Estate; same time beside
Did Move t'enjoy Clarenza for his Bride:
Gordanus call'd; but lodg'd unworthy Soul,
Mean parts, Debauch'd; whom Vice did sway, controul:
Nor Handsome Form, bad Choice conceiv'd, unwise;
Grand Quarrel too, ere lost that Beauteous Prize,
Between him and the Prince; Thus Both he hates
To th' utmost pray'd for Vengeance from the Fates.
Chief Villain there once pass'd for Eminent;
Was Earl for rank, Estate; same time beside
Did Move t'enjoy Clarenza for his Bride:
Gordanus call'd; but lodg'd unworthy Soul,
Mean parts, Debauch'd; whom Vice did sway, controul:
Nor Handsome Form, bad Choice conceiv'd, unwise;
Grand Quarrel too, ere lost that Beauteous Prize,
Between him and the Prince; Thus Both he hates
To th' utmost pray'd for Vengeance from the Fates.
This melted Lord, consum'd through Riot now,
Had brought along (Sold all to th' Cart and Plough)
Some Golden Cash, large Regiment's command
Procur'd by chance in Creet, that Forreign Land,
Now Candie call'd: those Five Comrades (base Men)
Ow'd like Himself, liv'd much by Cheats as then.
Tho some years past Lower Officers they were
Under the Prince, till He discharg'd them there
(Lord General) did for bad Crimes remove,
Whence loath'd to Death. Now under this they prove,
Grand Coronel should march Laconian way
To their Sea-port, which Realm conjoyned lay.
Had brought along (Sold all to th' Cart and Plough)
Some Golden Cash, large Regiment's command
Procur'd by chance in Creet, that Forreign Land,
Now Candie call'd: those Five Comrades (base Men)
Ow'd like Himself, liv'd much by Cheats as then.
Tho some years past Lower Officers they were
Under the Prince, till He discharg'd them there
(Lord General) did for bad Crimes remove,
Whence loath'd to Death. Now under this they prove,
Grand Coronel should march Laconian way
To their Sea-port, which Realm conjoyned lay.
Thus, prancing on Quarter of Mile below,
Humour to see that dainty'st Lodg, bestow
Some Cursing Coin their last Farewel's expence,
They rod to th' pale, prospective View, from thence.
So, driving forwards near that Pale, Conceal'd,
Through clump of Trees, none from the Park beheld;
They saw the Prince and Princess walking there,
Both glancing back: beyond Park-gate, howere;
Prime, Single Ods no Sword, through last Disgrace
More bold by far; their Lodg remoter place;
Nor us'd that Way beneath, they soon contrive
Foul Stratagem, to Both Storm-like did drive:
Left him for Dead (they thought) Seiz'd her by Pow'r,
Mouth stop'd with her own Gloves, that dreadful Hour.
So carry'd strait along i'th' Coach's end,
Arms held by two, whilst Cloak did Mufler lend
(Nor heard, nor seen) beyond Arcadia's bound
In shorter time; more pleas'd Laconian ground.
Wood, Rock conjoyn'd they chose, for Savage Heart
Fit Scaffold, Stage conceiv'd; where (formost part)
Revenge began: that grim Gordanus sought
To Ravish her, th' Hands firmly ty'd when brought
Now She should prove his Paultry Whore at least,
Tho not his Wife: in vaunting way exprest.
Humour to see that dainty'st Lodg, bestow
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They rod to th' pale, prospective View, from thence.
So, driving forwards near that Pale, Conceal'd,
Through clump of Trees, none from the Park beheld;
They saw the Prince and Princess walking there,
Both glancing back: beyond Park-gate, howere;
Prime, Single Ods no Sword, through last Disgrace
More bold by far; their Lodg remoter place;
Nor us'd that Way beneath, they soon contrive
Foul Stratagem, to Both Storm-like did drive:
Left him for Dead (they thought) Seiz'd her by Pow'r,
Mouth stop'd with her own Gloves, that dreadful Hour.
So carry'd strait along i'th' Coach's end,
Arms held by two, whilst Cloak did Mufler lend
(Nor heard, nor seen) beyond Arcadia's bound
In shorter time; more pleas'd Laconian ground.
Wood, Rock conjoyn'd they chose, for Savage Heart
Fit Scaffold, Stage conceiv'd; where (formost part)
Revenge began: that grim Gordanus sought
To Ravish her, th' Hands firmly ty'd when brought
Now She should prove his Paultry Whore at least,
Tho not his Wife: in vaunting way exprest.
Not far from th' Act, when almost Wand'ring flyes
Her grieved Soul in Sighing Gale to Skies;
Loud Huntsmen scar'd them there, approach'd that Shade:
Death was resolv'd; lest Blood or Corps betray'd,
Found quickly out, nor Strangling time perchance
(Too gentle Doom) ere Dogs and Men advance;
Confirmed thoughts that Rock would batter well
(Neer side thereof) securely Breath expel;
Dark Trees below; her Body's dainty'st Frame,
Like noisom Trash, was hurled down the same.
Good Friends still sought to please, perswade howere
That she might prove Unharm'd, Restored there.
That Lordly Rogue, Comrades this Vengeance found,
Passing by Sea (large sops for Whales) were drown'd.
Her grieved Soul in Sighing Gale to Skies;
Loud Huntsmen scar'd them there, approach'd that Shade:
Death was resolv'd; lest Blood or Corps betray'd,
Found quickly out, nor Strangling time perchance
(Too gentle Doom) ere Dogs and Men advance;
Confirmed thoughts that Rock would batter well
(Neer side thereof) securely Breath expel;
Dark Trees below; her Body's dainty'st Frame,
Like noisom Trash, was hurled down the same.
Good Friends still sought to please, perswade howere
That she might prove Unharm'd, Restored there.
That Lordly Rogue, Comrades this Vengeance found,
Passing by Sea (large sops for Whales) were drown'd.
Conjoyn'd to these, sad last Affliction prov'd,
His onely Daughter, beauteous Pearl, belov'd,
(Seventeen for age) o'th' choice Transcendent kind;
Fontana call'd, much Goodness too combin'd;
Soon lodg'd in mournful Vault amongst the Dead;
At Mantinea then, where Sojourned
With Countess-Aunt; which He by chance oreheard
After that Dream, so long thereof Debar'd.
His onely Daughter, beauteous Pearl, belov'd,
(Seventeen for age) o'th' choice Transcendent kind;
Fontana call'd, much Goodness too combin'd;
Soon lodg'd in mournful Vault amongst the Dead;
At Mantinea then, where Sojourned
32
After that Dream, so long thereof Debar'd.
Through Sorrow's weight oreburthen'd now, opprest,
He liv'd withdrawn; Reserved, pensive Brest:
Yielding too far (unwares) to rising Passion,
Strong Fancy's pow'r, which in great Grief vexation
Do Lord it oft like Tyrants o're the Mind;
Joyn'd Custom's ayd, leave strange Effects behind:
Bad Fogs produce in clearer Reason's sky:
Lost Blood withal (till Spirits fresh supply)
More wrong to th' Brain and Heart sad Spleen diseas'd;
Much heightned too, since Physick-course displeas'd.
Then 'twas hard Task to curb those Thoughts, suppress;
That Lodg was loath'd where caus'd so great Distress.
Too near to th' Court, large Mantinea found
Chief Country-house; Third on that City's ground.
He liv'd withdrawn; Reserved, pensive Brest:
Yielding too far (unwares) to rising Passion,
Strong Fancy's pow'r, which in great Grief vexation
Do Lord it oft like Tyrants o're the Mind;
Joyn'd Custom's ayd, leave strange Effects behind:
Bad Fogs produce in clearer Reason's sky:
Lost Blood withal (till Spirits fresh supply)
More wrong to th' Brain and Heart sad Spleen diseas'd;
Much heightned too, since Physick-course displeas'd.
Then 'twas hard Task to curb those Thoughts, suppress;
That Lodg was loath'd where caus'd so great Distress.
Too near to th' Court, large Mantinea found
Chief Country-house; Third on that City's ground.
Musing upon some Gentler Place he chose
Their Pastor-soyl's Convenient Repose
New Clime, as 'twere, to th' Court-bred Pomp contrary:
Pleas'd Thoughts withal, that might some Braveness carry;
Shew Scorn, contempt thereof; tho Pastors then
(As first we Said) not counted were Base men;
But own'd the Sheep, like Grasiers now, more free:
Far Nois'd the Pipes and Flocks of Arcadie.
Their Pastor-soyl's Convenient Repose
New Clime, as 'twere, to th' Court-bred Pomp contrary:
Pleas'd Thoughts withal, that might some Braveness carry;
Shew Scorn, contempt thereof; tho Pastors then
(As first we Said) not counted were Base men;
But own'd the Sheep, like Grasiers now, more free:
Far Nois'd the Pipes and Flocks of Arcadie.
Thus, Fixt, resolv'd; nor strange t' observe Extreams
Lodg'd in one Brest; like Sun's declined beams
Withdrawn to th' lower World, from State he falls,
Transcendent height to Pastors meaner walls:
Large, gorgeous Pomp (best pleas'd with Those) forsook;
Green Fields, conjoyned Shades, and wand'ring Brook:
Most harmless Life, Contentful thought, as Plain;
Took handsom Grange amongst the Pastor-train.
Fed Flocks withal; nor must his onely Son,
Styl'd Duke by birth, the brave Orsamnes shun
That Farm's retreat Arcadiaes glory tho
(Then, Twenty's age) for gallant Parts might shew;
Best Warlike Grounds conjoyn'd; tho men may now
Choicely improv'd (age Twenty one) allow:
Since gave Himself to Study, Contemplation;
Philosophy; Great horse for recreation:
Thus long perform'd that Duteous Task beside,
Still with his Father's Solemn Way comply'd;
As then whole Year. Same Pastor's life imbrac'd
Four of the Gentry's Rank, thrown down, Disgrac'd
(As was the Prince) by that unworthy King;
Men of Desert, conjoyn'd in suffering
As Friendship late: kind former League exprest;
Some under him great Offices possess'd;
Strong Ground altho to th' Prince shewn high Regard
Till times might Change. Near Farms by chance prepar'd;
Two Widdowers, with Sons, conjoyn'd in One;
Two more Wives, Daughters had, took Farms alone.
Both whom the Prince, Wives, Daughters so Esteem'd,
That He with Lord Orsamnes urgent seem'd,
To joyn High Blood with Theirs, and chuse for Bride
One o'th' Two Girls; should (lastly) i'th' Grange reside:
Philaura th' one, Merdone th' other nam'd,
Much Handsom Both for Person, Parts proclaim'd;
Whilst seem'd to th' Prince most Rare, unparallel'd:
Did so conceive Orsamnes scarce compell'd,
Since Prime the Choice, might Grant, comply from thence;
Tho Both did fail to please his curious Sense:
Nor prov'd withal to Marriage-thoughts inclin'd,
Or Pastor's Grange. The Prince (through clouded Mind
Disturb'd before) for last Half-year, that Part,
(Since seem'd Withdraw) made Sad Orsamnes Heart.
Lodg'd in one Brest; like Sun's declined beams
Withdrawn to th' lower World, from State he falls,
Transcendent height to Pastors meaner walls:
Large, gorgeous Pomp (best pleas'd with Those) forsook;
Green Fields, conjoyned Shades, and wand'ring Brook:
Most harmless Life, Contentful thought, as Plain;
Took handsom Grange amongst the Pastor-train.
Fed Flocks withal; nor must his onely Son,
Styl'd Duke by birth, the brave Orsamnes shun
That Farm's retreat Arcadiaes glory tho
(Then, Twenty's age) for gallant Parts might shew;
Best Warlike Grounds conjoyn'd; tho men may now
Choicely improv'd (age Twenty one) allow:
Since gave Himself to Study, Contemplation;
Philosophy; Great horse for recreation:
Thus long perform'd that Duteous Task beside,
Still with his Father's Solemn Way comply'd;
33
Four of the Gentry's Rank, thrown down, Disgrac'd
(As was the Prince) by that unworthy King;
Men of Desert, conjoyn'd in suffering
As Friendship late: kind former League exprest;
Some under him great Offices possess'd;
Strong Ground altho to th' Prince shewn high Regard
Till times might Change. Near Farms by chance prepar'd;
Two Widdowers, with Sons, conjoyn'd in One;
Two more Wives, Daughters had, took Farms alone.
Both whom the Prince, Wives, Daughters so Esteem'd,
That He with Lord Orsamnes urgent seem'd,
To joyn High Blood with Theirs, and chuse for Bride
One o'th' Two Girls; should (lastly) i'th' Grange reside:
Philaura th' one, Merdone th' other nam'd,
Much Handsom Both for Person, Parts proclaim'd;
Whilst seem'd to th' Prince most Rare, unparallel'd:
Did so conceive Orsamnes scarce compell'd,
Since Prime the Choice, might Grant, comply from thence;
Tho Both did fail to please his curious Sense:
Nor prov'd withal to Marriage-thoughts inclin'd,
Or Pastor's Grange. The Prince (through clouded Mind
Disturb'd before) for last Half-year, that Part,
(Since seem'd Withdraw) made Sad Orsamnes Heart.
This briefly Told, wherein did Sympathize
Fernanthe's Looks and Heart, with Sun-like Eyes
Breaking, as 'twere through Cloud, these Words exprest:
Your Story heard, my Lord, does manifest
Sad, Strange Events; much noble Virtue found
In bearing all, with Wreath Triumphant crown'd.
Madam, Orsamnes said, like darkned Sky
My Mind appear'd, but through your Beams supply
Much Cheared proves: those Winter-Fogs dispel'd,
Fresh-blossom'd Spring of Joys (as 'twere) beheld:
Conjoyn'd withal, one Kiss from her Desir'd
To chear his Thoughts, with that late Task o'retir'd.
Fernanthe's Looks and Heart, with Sun-like Eyes
Breaking, as 'twere through Cloud, these Words exprest:
Your Story heard, my Lord, does manifest
Sad, Strange Events; much noble Virtue found
In bearing all, with Wreath Triumphant crown'd.
Madam, Orsamnes said, like darkned Sky
My Mind appear'd, but through your Beams supply
Much Cheared proves: those Winter-Fogs dispel'd,
Fresh-blossom'd Spring of Joys (as 'twere) beheld:
Conjoyn'd withal, one Kiss from her Desir'd
To chear his Thoughts, with that late Task o'retir'd.
Fernanthe then in brief her Story told
Orsamnes there, which we shall largely unfold.
Sad Fortunes past; for Words, so choicely laying
Unkindness to her Stars, bright Looks displaying
Conjoyn'd that while, that mournful Sounds might shew
Tun'd thence to Sweet, and Sorrow Lovely grow.
Orsamnes there, which we shall largely unfold.
Sad Fortunes past; for Words, so choicely laying
Unkindness to her Stars, bright Looks displaying
Conjoyn'd that while, that mournful Sounds might shew
Tun'd thence to Sweet, and Sorrow Lovely grow.
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