CHAP. I. How Persicles was created King of Assyria , and travailed into Persia , to the Marriage of his sister Piera , to the Emperours Sonne Deloratus . How he was enamoured of Constantia : and returned into Assyria .

AN ancient King named Pius , ruled the Land of Assyria in great peace : as well Fortunate by the loue of his Subjects , and other outward blessings , as with two faire children , a Sonne and aDaughter , that after his death should succéed in that Empire , And by reason Age was now so much growne vpon him , that he found himselfe wearied , and vnable to exercise the care that belongeth to the government of so mighty a Nation : also beholding in his Sonne , more then ordinary grauity , and so forward a mind to vertue , as that he might well commit a matter of such weight to his care : he determined to giue himselfe to rest , which well agréed with his Age , and therefore caused all the Péeres of his Land to be assembled .

Which being effected , and all set in Parliament , the olde King uttered his minde : which was , to establish his Sonne Persicles in the Kingdome . The Péeres before that , as well by common report , as of their owne experience having perfect knowledge of his manifold vertues , gaue their generall consents : And so Persicles within few dayes was crowned King .

Pius having effected this according to his mind , yet could not b● at quiet vntill he had provided a marriage for his daughter , befitting her estate . To further which good intent , it fortuned that Deloratus Son and heyre to the King of Persia , hearing of Pieraes beauty ( for so was she called ) came into the Country of Assyria , and by long sute , at last obtained her good will , and her fathers consent : being assured to her in the presence of most of his Péeres , but for that certaine conditions were to be ratified by the King his Father , the solemnization of the marriage was deferred vntill that was performed : and for that time should not belong protracted , which Deloratus with earnestness hastened . Persicles with the consent of his Father , accompanied his Sister Piera into Persia , attended by a number of Gallant Knights , as well to sée the conditions ratified , and the marriage performed , as also to doe Deloratus honour ▪ After their departure , they within few dayes arrived in the Kingdome of Persia , where Persicles and Piera were most honourably entertained by the olde King Torsilus , and the conditions ratified .

The Solemnization of the marriage was deferred for certaine dayes , for that the King of Persia determined to haue the same performed with gr●at pompe , whether he invited many of his Neighbouring Kings , as of Arabia , Natolia , and Thessalia . The knights of Persia made preparation to attend the Bridegroome in great royalty .

Persicles being in the Persian Court , hearing what Gallants were likely to be at the wedding , prepared most rich Ornaments against that day , determining not to be the last in tryall of his valour at the Tilt. The prefixed day being come , the King of Arabia , Natolia , Thessalia , and many other Princes of great Estate , with them were arrived , and the City was filled with such a number of knights and Gallants , that there was scarce roome therein to containe them . To recite every particular of their entertainements , gréetings , riches , and what gallant Ladies were with them ▪ would be overtedious : but in briefe , there was such royall entertainment as befitted such Personages , and such a multitude of rare shewes , and fine devices , as might every way please a curious beholder .

The Marriage being past , the sumptuous Banquets ended , and the Estates set to behold the Tilt : The first that entered the Lists , was a Persian Duke , named Osimus , gallantly mounted and a man of goodly proportion : After whom , followed the rest of the Persian Knights , who were all Challengers against all strangers that came to make tryall of their Valour . Next came the adverse part , the foremost of which was Persicles , who appeared in Richnesse , according to the dignity of his place , being King of so mighty a Country as Assyria : whose sight led the beholders in admiration of his evident perfection . After whom followed Nonlus Prince of Natolia , and after him a number of most gallant Knights , so richly adorned , as would haue perswaded a cowardly miscreant to haue become valiant : whose particular description I omit .

As Persicles was chiefe of the adverse part , and Duke Osimus of the Persians , so they two beganne the encounter , breaking of staues with excéeding valour : but Osimus intending to winne the chiefest honour , for that he was estéemed the best Knight in Persia , had provided staues of tough Wood , which would not start with an easie encounter : one of which hée tooke , and ranne the fourth time at Persicles , who vnprovided of such an vnexpected assault was overturned : and his Stéed tumbling , fell vpon him , that with the fall he for a time remained without sence . The King of Persia and the rest , being excéedingly afraid that he was slaine , came running off the Scaffolds to take him vp , carrying him forth of the Lists , to be vnarmed : Amongst the rest , his sister Piera vsed her vttermost diligence to recover him with whom likewise , were a number of gallant Ladyes to assist her : but chiefly the Quéene of Persia , and her youngest Daughter Constantia , as more regarding him , by reason he was Brother to Piera , and most of all lamented his mishap .

Persicles finding himselfe somewhat recovered , at the first opening his eyes , fixt them on Constantia , which by reason hée was not fully reuiued , stood still fixt vpon the first object , as it were with affectionate earnestnesse , which caused an excéeding blush to rise in her chéekes .

But now séeing such a number about him , he was amazed and halfe ashamed of his foyle , said : I beséech you leaue me to my selfe ; and sée the rest of the Turnaments , for I haue no harme . With that he started vpon his féet , and fetching a déepe sigh departed . They were all excéeding glad of his safety : and so leauing him to be attended by his owne knights , they departed to the Scaffolds , and againe tooke their places to behold the rest of the Turnament .

Persicles was excéedingly vexed , that he had received such a disgrace , and in the presence of such and honorable assembly : most of all for that he vnderstood Osimus intent : presently buckled on one of his Knights Armor● , and mounting himselfe , entred the Lists againe , by which time , the Tilt was almost ended , and the Persian Knights bare away the prize ; but Persicles then vnknowne , stood ready at the Races end , for the next encounter : against whom a Persian Knight ran , but so farre to his disgrace , that he tumbled with his héeles vpwards . With that euery one began to wonder what he should be , and the people gaue an excéeding shout : with that the other Persian met with him , whose fortune was much like the former . For his Stéed trumbling with the strength of the Encounter , they both fell downe . A Knight of Persia who that day had wonne great honor by his valor , séeing that , would néeds be the next to méete him , thinking to revenge his Countrymans disgrace : but at the first race he could not performe it , for they past by without any other oddes , but breaking their staues most gallantly . And running againe , the Persians Fortune was so bad , that he was overthrowne . By this time the day was ended , and the Iudges ready to depart : but Osimus intreated that he might break one staffe with the strāger , which they granted . Whom Persicles well knew , resolutely determined to giue or take the foyle , both of them méeting with such terror , that the Earth séemed to shake , and Osimus ( notwithstanding all his strength ) was by Persicles overthrowne to salue his h●nor , and requite his discourtesie . With that the people gaue such shouts , as made all the Pallace ring with the sound . And Persicles discovered himselfe , which made every one rejoyce , and wonder at his valour .

Persicles being vnarmed , accompanied the King of Persia , Natolia , and the rest , having that day wonne such honour as made him more highly estéemed : and comming to salute his sister Piera hée suddenly espyed Constan●ia : thinking he had before séene that swéet countenance , but he could not remember where , which cast him into such a déepe study , that he almost forgat himselfe . After he had saluted the rest he came to Constantia , to whom he said . Faire Lady either I haue beheld your Beauty , and that swéet countenance in some other Countrey , or in some vision , for my mind perswadeth me , I should perfectly know you : for I am sure this is not the first time I haue séene you , which maketh me thus bold to demand of whence you are , if it be not offensiue vnto you . Sir ( replyed Constantia ) it may be , I am but an imperfect shadow of her you so perfectly remember ; for vntill this day I never saw you , which maketh me suppose , you doe but take an occasion of course to commend me , that deserue no such matter , neither shall you offend me : nor I deny to shew my Birth , being Daughter to the King of Persia , but for many yeares brought vp in Arabia . Pardon my boldnesse ( quoth Persicles ) for I would not offend you , neither doe I thinke you a shadow , but a perfect substance , and not to resemble any but your selfe : for there can be no Beauty that excelleth yours , which mine eyes before this time haue beheld : or else Nature it selfe hath imprinted in my heart an essentiall distinct of deuotion thereto , which perswadeth me to this boldnesse : therefore I humbly desire you not to misconceiue me , nor estéeme me of so rude a disposition , as to speake otherwise then my heart thinketh : and to account of me as one that earnestly desireth to be better acquainted with you , and will endeavour to make you amends for any offence giv●n , offering my selfe and all that is mine , to be at your disposition : which said , he left off further spéech , for he saw others attend to heare what he said .

At night Constantia being in her private Chamber , called to remembrance Persicles spéeches , which made her maruell why he should say , he had before that séen her , which she knew could not be : but remembring how earnestly he beheld her that day , when he was scarce reuiued from his trance , she thought that sight might bréed such a perswasion in him , which was so indéed : withall , she called to mind , his comelinesse , valour , estate , and courtesie , which she had before noted : all which remembrances made her so much forget all other thoughts that a great part of the night was vnawares overpast : and after she had reuiued her sences , she felt such an alteration , as all that night she could not rest , delighting in nothing so much as to remem●er him . The like did Persicles , for her Beauty and other outward graces , had pierced so neare his heart , that he was enthralled to her Loue , and resolued to winne it .

Earely the next morning he got vp , séeking all occasions to speake to her againe , but he was disappointed all the forenoone . For she by reason of her little rest in the night , kept her Chamber , and after ●inner , accompanied the Quéene her mother , and the other Ladies whereby he was that day disappointed . The next morning likewise he arose , studying which way to come to her spéech , for his affection was so great , as no thought contented him but her remembrance ; but before he could bring to passe what he most desired , there arriued Messengers from Assyria , certifying him that his Father was deceast , and that their ancient enemy the king of Armenia had entred his Land , and destroyed many of his Subiects , desiring him in all hast to returne ; For in his absence the Assyrians seemed like men without courage .

Persicles hearing the vnexpected newes , was excéedingly astonisht , both with desire to saue his Countrey , and also to prosecute his Loue : the one perswading him to stay , the other to hasten his departure : The one being as deare to him as his life , the other as deare , as both Life , Countrey , and all : for without obtaining of that , he thought he could not liue , being so much perplexed , that he could not resolue what to doe : At last the speciall regard of his Country ouercame his heart , and reuiued him with a manly courage to reuenge , that he Commanded all things to be prepared for his sudden departure , and going to his Chamber , he got Pen and Inke , and wrote as followeth :

TO THE MOST FAIREST Constantia . MOst beloved Constantia ,

though my Countries preservation , occasioneth my sudden departure , yet my Love to your perfections , importuneth me to solicite your gentle eares with these rude Lines , I cannot with colourable Phrases shadow a perfect meaning , nor yet with painted Eloquence , decipher my true love : but in the truest sort , manifest my constant affection to your vertues , which vnlesse you grace with some favour , will be my endlesse torments I have long desired to make the same manifest unto you , but I was still disappointed , and my vnexpected departure hath now shut me from your presence , whereby I shall live in continuall care . Notwithstanding , I humbly beseech you in my vnwilling absence , to esteeme me your faithfull and true devoted Servant , and one that hath vowed himselfe for ever to be yours : whose welfare consisteth in your curtesie , the hope whereof shall preserve my life untill my returne , which my constant love will cause me to hasten , desiring you , though I be absent , not to forget me , nor for my little deserts to reject me , but let me be so much bound to your ve●tues , as to conceive well of me ; and to your curtesie , as to pitty me : so shall my joyes be lengthened , my vnhappy life is preserved , and my good will and constant loyalty highly rewarded . So with sorrow , I take my leave .

Yours inseparably , PERSICLES .

Hauing wrote this Letter , he found out his sister Piera , to whom he said as followeth . Deare sister , the sorrowes that cause my departure , come so suddenly , as that I cannot stand long to conferre with you ; therefore for that I build vpon assurance of our loue , secrecy , and assistance , I will vnfold to you the secrets of my heart , and that which none but your selfe should know . So it is that Constantiaes beauty hath bewitched mine eyes , and I remain so much inthralled thereto , that vnlesse she pitty me , I am but cast away . I desire your assistance herein , whereby you may preserue my life . I haue wrote this Letter vnto her , which I desire you to deliver : and withall to vse such spéeches on my behalfe , as shall séeme best to your wisedome : for I assure you , vnlesse at my returne , which shall be shortly , I find her favourable , my sorrowes will shorten my dayes . Then good sister shew your loue to me in this , and in my absence giue her knowledge of my loyalty , which shall make me everlastingly thankefull vnto you . Piera promised her vtmost assistance , and so with many feares of her side , they parted .

The newes of his departure was soone spred through the whole Court , and likewise came to Constantias hearing , who left her chamber , and gat into her mothers company , where she thought to haue a sight of him , which some small sparkes of Loue that were kindled in her tender breast , procured her vnto . After all farewels were past , he espyed her in the company of other Ladies , to whom he came , and onely amongst the rest of them all , took his leaue of her with a swéet kisse , breathing forth a bitter sigh at the parting , which euery one noted : Some taking the same in disdaine , and others marvelling that he regarded her aboue them all . Which made the blood rise in Constantiaes chéekes , and the waterswell in her eyes .

CHAP. II. How Helyon Prince of Arabia , crost the love betweene Persicles and Constantia . Of a battell fought betweene Persicles , and the King of Armenia . And how disguising himselfe , he travelled into Persia , and how he discovered himselfe to Constantia .

HIs departure caused a sadnesse throughout the Court , for indéed he was the beauty thereof , so excellent was his person , and so commendable his qualities . Piera betaking her selfe to her Chamber , lamented his absence with priuate teares , vntill Deloratus found her out , and caused her with his comfortable spéeches , to giue ouer that griefe . The King of Natolia likewise with most of the Nobles and Knights that came to the Solemnization of the Wedding were departed , except Prince Helyon , sonne to the King of Arabia . The occasion of , whose stay , was to craue Constantia in marriage , assuring himselfe of her Loue , by reason of the familiarity that was betwixt them in her fathers Court : which indéed by her former kindnesse he might be in some assurance off , though not by any promise she had made him : which motion hée made to the King of Persia , who estéeming so honourably of him regarding his Birth , and most of all , desiring to be allyed to the Arabian King , gaue his consent , which was fully concluded and agréed vpon , before it came to Constantiaes knowledge .

Prince Helyon having his assurance , with a merry heart sought out Constantia , entending to reveale the same to her : and according to his wonted kind of Familiarity , began to gréet her : In whom he found such an alteration , that he wondred thereat , saying : My deare Constantia , this vnexpected vnkindnesse in you , whom I estéeme as my most chosen Friend , maketh me admire , whereas I had thought to haue enjoyed your loue without interruption . Vpon confidence of your courtesie , I haue moved your Fathers consent to our Marriage , who hath yéelded thereto : then I beséech you darken not both your and my joyes , with these Misty clouds of care , which will fill my heart with sorrow : but rather increase your kindnesse , to both mine and your comfort . Constantia's countenance bewrayed the angry motions of her heart , incensed by his spéeches , that we had much adoe to withhold her eyes from shedding teares : yet with a colour as red as Scarlet , she gaue him this answer . Prince Helyon , if that be true which you tell me , I cannot chuse but wonder at your folly , that would without assurance of my Loue , make such a motion : thinke you my affections are to be limitted according to your disposition ? For my part , I disclayme such interest , and renounce such Affection : for I never intended any such matter , nor ever did you demand the same . Then my Lord be you satisfied for this , for I never yet did , nor will giue my consent .

Helyon hearing her answere , was nipt on the head , being strooke with such griefe , that he could not tell what to say . But at last replyed . Constantia , I confesse I haue done you wrong , in adventuring so farre without your consent , but yet for that I haue not thereby either dishonoured your Name , or otherwise injured you , I humbly craue pardon , desiring you to ratifie that which I haue by your former courtesies assured my selfe of : and let not my overboldnesse alienate any part of your good will . For you know my affections haue remained inviolable constant many yeares : and I haue attended your liking with such feruency , as you may be resolutely assured of my truth . Then I beséech you be not now displeased with mée , but according to your wonted kindnesse , accept me into your favour .

My Lord ( replyed she ) I cannot deny but that your good will hath excéeded my deserts , for which I thanke you : and withall , that I haue alwayes estéemed you , which likewise I would haue done still : But now that opinion is altered , neither can I be induced to conceiue well of him that would doe me such manifest injury as you haue done . Therefore I pray be contented with that fauour you haue had , for my affections are otherwise employed , and my heart vtterly disagréeing to the motion you haue made . With that shée espyed Piera in the Garden comming towards her , to whom she went downe , saluting her most kindly . Piera thought now to haue delivered her Persicles Letter , but by reason that there were divers in their company , she could not then performe it . After a while they left each other , Piera returning to her Chamber , and Constantia into a secret place of the Garden where she vttered these meditations . What contrarious disquiets are these possesse the center of my heart ? what inconveniences am I like to run into ? and how shall I avoyd blame for the one , and reape content by the other ? How vnkindly hath Prince Helyon vsed me , to make this motion to my Father , whose disposition must not be crost , without hazard of much disquiet ? My kindnesse to him , hath caused his over-fond conceit of himselfe , and brought me into much trouble : I could haue loved him before I came to the sight of Persicles , whose guifts are so farre excéeding his , that whereas my heart loved him , the thought of that Loue is now most grievous . Wherein I may doe my selfe great wrong : for in hope of his affection , I refuse Helyons loue , which may depriue me of both , purchase my Fathers heavy displeasure , and my owne perpetuall discontent , Reuoluing a Chaos of these , and such like confused cogitations , which overcame her sences with their ambiguity , in a heavy and discontented vaine she went to her Chamber , thinking there to consider of every particular at the full : where we found Piera all alone , staying her comming in , who soone espyed that Constantia had wept , whereupon she tooke occasion to say as followeth . My beloved Sister , I am sorry to sée you in this heavy and sadde vaine , alwayes finding you either sad or wéeping , which maketh me wonder ; and desi●ous to know the cause , as one willing in any sort to counsell you , and comfort you with my vttermost assistance , I haue of purpose entred your Chamber , to haue some conference with you in priuate , being a Messenger sent to you by my Brother Persicles , who I know loveth you dearely : who by me humbly commendeth himselfe vnto you , being sorry that his sudden departure was such , that he could not before his going , doe you that Service you doe deserue , and he desired . Withall , he desired me to deliver you this Letter which he left behind , to testifie the depth of his affection : which at my request vouchsafe to read , and withall credit : for I know his honourable heart endureth much care by his absence . Constantia without making reply received the letter , and read the same : which when she had done , she said : Deare Sister , I thanke you for taking this paines to come to me , and not rather to haue sent for me , that rest at your command ▪ And also I thanke that worthy King Persicles , that he will vouchsafe mée such vndeserved favour , as to estéeme well of my vnworthinesse , to whom I am bound in all honorable respect , but how vnfit I am to entertain loue , your selfe would judge , if you knew my estate , which vpon assurance of your secrecy I will vnfold . Prince Helion of Arabia , vainely presuming he was assured of my favour , hath asked my Fathers consent , to a marriage betwixt him and me , which he hath granted vnto : which the heavens can testifie is vtterly disagréeing to my heart , and altogether without my consent , which he shall never attaine , what danger soever I incurre thereby . Which if Persicles should vnderstand , would soone alter his mind : Therefore it is best for his quiet not to place his affections on me so vnworthy , but let me alone to endure the affliction that is likely to ensue .

I know ( qd Piera ) my Brothers Loue is so constant , that nothing can alter the same which he related to me at large : which maketh me testifie the assurance thereof . Which would you but accept of , or giue me some comfortable hope in his absence , I should think my selfe bound to you for ever , and to haue done him an excéeding pleasure : for nothing but the happy tidings of your favour , can comfort him . The King of Persia will not compell you to marry Helion , when he vnderstandeth that you are otherwise bent , for that were cruelty . And I think Helion himselfe beareth not so dishonourable a mind , as to séeke your Loue by constraint ▪ for that were inhumanity . But would you yéeld to like of my Brothers loue that is every way as good as the Prince of Arabia , the knowledge thereof would soon make him returne to aske your fathers consent , which may peradenture stand as well affected to him as to Prince Helyon . Ay me go . Constantia : sister I néed not doubt to reveale my greatest secrets to you that I know for Persicles sake will conceale them , I confesse without further circumstances , that I loue that worthy King Persicles , which is the cause of these disquiets : neither did my fancy ever yéeld the least conceit of liking Helyons loue , which I tooke to be rather grounded upon common familiarity , then pretence of Marriage . Therefore now that you are assured of that which you request , I beséech you not to conceiue amisse of my rash confession , nor estéeme my loue light , because of so short continuance , for it shall be immoueable : but rather comfort my poore disquieted heart , with your counsell how to avoyd these inconveniences . And if that worthy King be so affected towards me , as your spéeches and his Letter here affirmeth , I would wish his returne might be spéedy : otherwise my sorrowes will be endlesse . For I know my Fathers nature to be such , that whatsoever he will haue , must be performed , though equity would perswade the contrary .

Grieue not so much ( quoth Piera , ) with premeditated conceit of feare , which peradventure shall never come to passe : I will presently send messengers vnto my Brother , which shall carry such newes as will comfort his heart , and cause spéedy returne : in the meane time I will make Deloratus acquainted with Helyons practise , not Persicles Loue , who shall perswade the King all that may be , not to consent to marry you against your minde . Be then of good comfort , and in assurance of Persicles Loyalty , let no feare disquiet your sences , or impaire your health : For things now at the worst may haue a good end . These spéeches ended , they parted .

All this while Prince Helion was meditating how to hasten the Marriage , but most of all to find the cause of Constantias discontent : which he thought was aggravated against him , by some good conceit we had lately entertained of some other then himselfe , which made him prosecute the same with more feruency : and dealt so effectually with the King , that he swore Constantia should be ruled by him . And thereupon , the next day sent for her , to whom he said :

Daughter , I thinke it is not vnknown to you that I haue promised you in Marriage to Prince Helyon ; one that is every way worthy to match with you , both for Noblenesse of Birth , vertuous qualities , and comelinesse of person . Withall , I am given to vnderstand , that you like not our choice , nor estéeme our command : which if you neglect ▪ you shall not onely displease me , but also loose my favour for ever . For as you are mine , I purpose to dispose of you , but if you refuse my counsell , refuse me too ; for I will not regard a disobedient child . The manifold reasons I could alleadge , that perswade me to the confirmation of this Contract , are of such waight , as I might séeme carelesse of your welfare , and your selfe enuious of your owne good , to deny them : therefore let me know your answer .

Constantia well knew that if she denyed ▪ hée would be offended ; and his froward nature to be so much disposed to wrath , that before she could speake she shooke with feare : yet resolution so hazard the worst , humbling her selfe vpon her knée , she made this answer . My reverend duty to you ( most loving Father ) perswadeth my consent to fulfill your command , though my Loue bindeth me to the contrary : that I stand perplext twixt two extreames : the one , fearing to offend you , the other to procure my everlasting discontent : for in refusing to doe according to your will , I shall incurre your indignation , and in performing the same , my everlasting sorrow . For as yet my heart could never yéeld to loue that worthy Prince , who farre too worthy to be matcht with me . Most humbly beséeching you to consider , that inforced Loue never bringeth content , but disquiet , which with Helyon , will be my portion : Therefore I beséech you reuoke your determination .

Is it even so ( quoth he ) shall my command be countervaild by your péevish conceit ? Is this the regard you giue to my good will ? Are you wiser then I ? Or are you willing to displease mée ? Shall my will stand at your direction ? Is this the duty you owe to your Father , or feare you no more to offend me ? Haue I so carefully brought you vp , and tenderly regarded you for this ? Henceforth never come in my sight , for I will not estéeme thée as a Child , but as a bastard : and withall I vow , that if thou dost not yéeld to marry him , vse him kindly , and apply thy devotions to his liking , I will vse thée in such sort , that all Persia shall lament thy case . Having given her this bitter reproofe , he departed : leaving her wéeping the fountaines of her precious eyes dry , wringing her hands , and like one in a dead trance , overcome with griefe , cast vpon the Earth . The first that entred the roome was Helyon , who séeing her in that agony , tooke her by the hand to haue raised her from the earth , but she refusing his help , vttered these spéeches . Vntill this time I alwayes estéemed honourably of you , but now my good opinion is altered , for that you onely séeke my torment : my Father hath given me charge to Marry with you , which I must against my heart fulfill : but be assured never to possesse my Loue , for that I haue bequeathed another : onely my outward parts may be yours , but my inward , affections shall continually estéeme you as the onely occasioner of my endlesse miseries . With that shée rose vp from the ground , giving him neither better words , nor other kind behaviour , but left him standing still as one astonisht .

Piera made Constantia's estate knowne to Deloratus , who so farre as he durst , perswaded her Father not to constraine her to marry the Prince : but such wilfulnesse possest him , that the more they intreated him the more contrarious he was , and therefore appointed the day for the Marriage to be within two moneths . And in the mean time doubting the King of Arabiaes consent , he sent his Ambassadors to that effect .

Piera hearing this , presently sent messengers into Assyria to certifie Persicles of all that had happened : and withall , wrote a Letter , which contained the whole summe of Constantia's consent to his Loue . Who with all diligence hasted vntill they arrived there , being presently conducted into his presence : After he had most kindly imbraced them , he demanded how Piera did , and what message they brought from her : whereupon they delivered him the Letters they had brought : which when he had read , commanding his Knights to giue the Messengers honourable entertainment , he departed to his Tent , one way so much comforted and another way so much troubled , that he sate him downe in a déepe study , not yet knowing what to resolue vpon .

When hée had along space meditated with what contrarieties his Fortunes were crost , the danger his Country was in , how likely he was to loose Constantia , and how difficult to attempt her possession , and many other , at last he thought his Life should be nothing without her Loue : and therefore he fully resolved to hazard the same to attaine it : but so vnpossible it séemed which way to accomplish the same : For first the Armenians warre hazarded his Kingdome , whom he could not suddenly expell : Next to attempt to winne her by force , that could not be , for the Persian was too mighty : and lastly , delay might bréed a greater mischiefe then all the rest : that calling vnto him two of his chiefest Nobles , the one named Parenus , a wise Counsellour , the other Thrureus a Noble Warriour , he vttered his mind to them , saying : I haue sent for you , as the men that I most respect and trust : being determined to commit to your charge the governement of my Kingdome , for that weighty businesse , and such as concernes my everlasting welfare , must for a season withdraw me : and for that I am fully assured of your Loyalty , I will vse no exhortations , to perswade you thereto , but to order the same in this sort . Thrureus resembling me much , both in proportion and countenance , shall in my absence possesse my roome , whom the people will assuredly take to be my selfe , and so governe them with more ease . And you Parenus , by your wisedome order all things according thereto : Thus you know my mind : which I doe not doubt , but you will accomplish in every respect according to my desire . They first intreated him , not to depart , but when they saw nothing could prevaile , they swore that they would faithfully execute what he had given them in charge . Hée likewise telling them that he would depart within thrée dayes , which he deferred so long , by reason that the second day the Armies of the Assyrians and Armenians should méete . Having ended his conference with them he returned to the Messengers that came from Persia , giving Letters to Piera , which gaue her knowledge that hee would be there within few dayes .

The prefixed day for the Batt●il was now come and both the Armies met , betwixt whom began so hot and deadly a Fight , that many thousands on both parts lost their lives , and the Armenians gréedy of their Enemies overthrow , followed them so eagerly , that they began to sound a retrait . Persicles séeing that , left the place of his Government , and with his Lance ready coucht , met an Armenian Duke so full , that hée pierced the same through his body , then drawing his sword , with the same he slew the next , & after him wounded others : that within a while his valour made such a Massacre amongst them , that they avoyded the place of his Fight , and thought themselves best that were furthest of him . Thus valorously did he pursue them , vntill he was vnawares in the midst of their Army : which advantage the King of Armenia espyed , thinking Persicles life within his power , ran at him with a lance poynted with a stéele , but it mist him : and Persicles séeing him , met him so full with the pommell of his sword against his breast , that had not his Stéed yéelded , he had broken his backe ; with that the Armenians assailed him round about , with such vnequall oddes , being a multitude to one , that sometimes they were thrust so néere vpon him by the throng , that they swayed him vp and downe : Those that came next him dyed by his sword , their dead trunkes falling downe betwixt his Stéeds legges , which made him spring about with such fury , that he soone made them giue way . In the meane time , while the most part of the Battell were bent to destroy him , the Assyrians had made such a slaughter amongst the out-wings of the Army , that most of them were slaine , and the rest fled . Thureus fearing Persicles harme , for that he mist him with his followers , soone found him out , and by that meanes rescued him from amongst the multitude : who by this time had vnhorst him , and hée was constrained to fight on foote , being scarce able to withhold himselfe from stumbling vpon the dead carkasses of those himselfe had slaine . Thureus soone got him remounted , and then both of them pursued their enemies so fiercely , that they began to fly ; and had not the day béene ended , they had béene all destroyed : which caused Persicles to sound a retraite , and befake him to his Tent , having that day done such déeds of Armes , as made both his own subjects and the Armenians admire him .

Early the next morning , word was brought him , his Enemies were all fled , and not any of them to be found in the Campe , having left all their Riches behind them , being glad they had escaped aliue which reioyced Persicles to heare , for that they should be no hinderance to his journey , commanding his Souldiers to take the spoyle and to bury the dead : and for that he had received never a mortall wound , he determined the next day to depart , which he acquainted Parenus and Thureus withall , requesting them ( if it were possible ) not to discover his absence vntill his returne .

Having ordered every thing according to his mind , the next morning he departed , attiring himselfe like a Palmer ; with his staffe in his hand , which disguise shadowed him from knowledge , that he past his owne Court Gates , vndiscryed : which assured him , that if his owne subjects and servants knew him not , much lesse would strangers , that he passed without feare of being discovered . In this sort did he travell , thinking it no penance to take paines to find out his Loue , vntill he arrived in Persia , yet not knowing which way to accomplish his intent , or to come to spéech eyther of Piera or Constantia , for that he was a Stranger , being denyed to enter the Court gates , where he stayed attending his good Fortune , some thrée dayes : but as farre from hope then , as at his first comming : that he was so much tormented in his thoughts , that he could not tell what to doe . The next day he heard that the King should goe foorth on Hunting , which made him presently suppose ( for that the Parke was so néere the Court ) the Ladies likewise would sée the pastime , hoping by some odde meanes or other , to giue one of them knowledge of his arriuall , that he wrote a Letter , the contents whereof were these .

To PIERA , or CONSTANTIA .

THese J write to eyther of you : My Fortunes being doubtfull to whether J should deliver this . The Palmer that delivered this Letter is Persicles , that desireth to speake with one of you , for hee sayth , you both are as deare to him as his owne Soule . Attending an happie houre , J end .

Yours PERSICLES .

The next day , according to his hopes , the King and Quéene Dela and Piera , Helyon and Constantia , and many other came foorth whom Persicles soone espyed : and well noting Constantiaes countenance , perceiued the same so darkened , as if she had béene fully possest with discontent . Who comming néere him ( for he stood so as they must passe by him ) casting her eyes vpon him beheld him so earnestly , that she almost forgate her selfe , feeling her heart to throb with vnwonted motion , that she let fall her rich Scarffe , most curiously imbroydred , which occasion Persicles soone espyed , as awayting such an opportunity , tooke vp the Scarffe , and with great ren●rence gaue it her , conueying the Letter therein so closely , that she soone espyed the same : wherewith her heart began to pant , and viewing the superscription , found it directed to her , or Piera : that closely she put the same in her bosome , lest Helyon or any else shou●d ●spie it , vntill she could And opportunity to reade it . By this time , the game was rowzed , and all but she alone followed the pastime with earnestnesse : which ●●e beholding , withdrew her selfe with one of her Ladyes , and read the Letter through which affected her heart with such joy and feare , that sometimes her heart leapt with the one , and her Eyes stood ready to overflow with teares with the other . Presently fo●lowing the company vntill she overtooke Piera , to whom she said : Sister , did you not behold the Palmer that stood in the way , as we came by the Pallace wall ? Yes ( quoth she ) and doe you not know hi● , said Constantia ? It is your Brother Persicles .

With that Piera smiled , saying : How can that be : or what maketh you thinke so ? With that she pull'd out the Letter , and bad h●r reade it : W●ich when she had done , she sayd : Constantia , hee is worthy to be kindly vsed , having travailed so farre on foote to sée vs . Yea ( quoth Constantia ) how may we come to speake with him ? Or how may we giue him that Welcome his Worthinesse deserveth ? That for my vnworthy sake , hath vndertaken to hazard his Royall person in travell ? Let me alone ( quoth Piera ) and the better to avoyd suspition , vse Hel●on some what more kindly then heretofore you haue done , that his minde may be vo●d of jealousie : for I perc●iue when you come in any place or company , he hath a diligent and vigilant eye over you .

And calling vnto her a Damzell named Dela , one that was privy to all her secret counsels , to whom she sayd : Goe thy way and finde out the Palmer that thousawest as we came , for it is Persicles , conduct him into my Chamber , where let him stay vntill my returne : and if any aske thée what he is , tell them hée is of Assyria , and bringeth mée newes from the Knight my Brother . Dela hasted , and soone found him out , reverently saluting him , and calling him by his name : which made him marvell that she knew him , vntill shée delivered her Message , which he was ready to fulfill , as the thing he aboue all things desired . And having brought him into the Court , which she did without contradiction , she returned to certifie her Mistresse thereof . Whom she met with Constantia , and some few before the rest , returning to the Court , being both desirous to sée Persicles . Who now entring the Pallace , were soone espyed of him , which affected his heart with such content , as it séemed to reviue his sences .

Constantia likewise was possest with such contrarious passions , sometimes of Feare , joy , bashfulnesse , desire , and modest loue , that her heart séemed to dissolue : and all the Arteries of her body wrought with internall and strange motions . By this time they were ascended the stayres , and Persicles ready to méet them , who first saluted Piera , as reserving the best for the last : which he performed so superficially , in respect of the behavior he vsed to Constantia , whose modesty made her blush : whilest he berest of a swéet kisse : who with as mild a countenance as if Modesty her selfe had béene there , bad him Welcome .

Most divine Lady ( quoth he ) I cannot expresse my thankefulnesse ●y outward meanes , for that my heart both wisheth and intendeth more good to you then my tongue can vtter : being so farre bound vnto you in ( respect of my slender and small deserts ) for your estéeming well of me , that I shall never be able to discharge the debt . And though you haue little cause by reason of the small proofe you haue of my Fidelity , to yéeld me Loue , yet if my faithfull How may satisfie you , and my plighted promise of perpetuall constancy assure you you shall find me both constant in Loue to you , Faithfull , to deale Honourably with you , and Loyall , not to doe any thing that shall be disagréeable to your Will.

My Lord ( said Constantia ) in full assurance of your good meaning my heart willingly affecting you more then any , without farther delay , I yéeld my selfe to your disposition : desiring you not to misconceiue me . And though I am too vnworthy such accounts as you make of mée , my possession being linckt to so many Inconveniences , yet since your desire is to haue it so , I am ready wholly to be ruled and governed according to your directions .

Piera then said , Let further conference for this time cease , because I heare of the King returne : and for this Night I will provide for my Brothers security , with whom I will conferre about this businesse , vntill you may conveniently méet againe . This said , Persicles●ooke ●ooke his leaue of Constantia , with many ceremonious Farewels , ●s each part interchanging their hearts , such perfect Loue was establisht betwixt them . He to a secret Chamber to meditate . Piera , to ●ccompany her husband , and Constantia , with an outwardly merry , ●hough inwardly heavy heart , to Welcome Helyon .