Ariosto's satyres in seuen famous discourses, shewing the state, 1 Of the Court, and courtiers. 2 Of libertie, and the clergie in generall. 3 Of the Romane clergie. 4 Of marriage. 5 Of soldiers, musitians, and louers. 6 Of schoolmasters and scholers. 7 Of honor, and the happiest life. In English, by Garuis Markham.

Ariosto's SATYRES , IN SEVEN FAMOVS DIScourses , shewing the State ,

1 Of the Court , and Courtiers . 2 Of Libertie , and the Clergie in generall . 3 Of the Romane Clergie . 4 Of Marriage . 5 Of Soldiers , Musitians , and Louers . 6 Of Schoolmastrs and Scholers . 7 Of Honour , and the happiest Life .

In English , by Garuis Markham .

LABORE ET CONSTANTIA

LONDON Printed by Nicholas Okes , for Roger Iackson , dwelling in Fleet-street , neere the great Conduit . 1608.

To the Reader .

GEntle Reader , the vertuous , with their owne , hauing alwaies regard to an others good , do painfully bestow houres , daies , and yeares , to make that easie to others , which they with great labour haue obtained ; in their places , vsing all meanes , to reclaime all persons , from all manner vices , and to furnish them with such gifts of grace , as make the possessors all iointly happy . From the man of experience , which hath learning and wisedome , thou mayest bee sure to receiue good instruction . I know my selfe vnable to giue the Author of this booke , his due commendation : if I were , and did , yet should I seeme to some , to flatter , to others not to haue sayd inough : wherefore for thy contentment , let this suffice thee , the author had his education with the learned , his liuing among the greatest concourse of people , and his life vnreproueable . For his gifts , the world hath already had sufficient experience , in that famous worke of Orlando Furioso . Whosoeuer thou art , I dare assure thee , thou mayest in this discourse ( as in a glasse ) see thy present estate , and so not misse to iudge rightly of thy end . In reading thou shalt finde pleasure , both in the matter and forme ; by considerng thou shalt be able to instruct thy selfe and others ; but by practising as thou ought , thou shalt find setled happinesse . Let the example of others be thy instruction , to flie that euill which hath bin their ouerthrow , and to embrace that good which was their aduancement . Be thankful first to God , then to the author , and lastly to thy Country-man , who for thy sake , without any other recompence , hath taken the paines in most exquisite manner , to be thy interpreter .

Vale .

The argument of the whole worke , and the reasons why Lodouico Ariosto writ these Seauen Satyres .

THE reasons why Master Lodouico Ariosto writ these seauen Satyres , so much renowned and esteemed amongst all the Italians , were grounded vpon these fiue principles or discontentments .

First , the Poet being giuen wholly vnto his booke and study , was in the twentieth year of his age ( at what time he began to write his Oriando Furioso ) entertained into the seruice of Don Hypolito , Cardinall of Esta , a greate fauourer of learning and good wits ; where he continued certaine yeares at his study , being imployed by his Lord in many matters of greate importance , vntill this strange accident hapned , which was the first occasion why he fell into disgrace with his Lord and master ; and this it was .

The Cardinall Hypolito Master vnto Ariosto , falling in loue with a young Lady his kinswoman ( who for her owne part was no lesse in amored of Don Iulio the naturall brother vnto the Cardinall ) she confessed vnto him , that the only thing which occasioned her ( aboue all other ) to affect his brother , was the sweet aspect and beauty of his eies ; vpon which the Cardinall grew into so great a hatred against his owne brother , that by iealousie turning his loue into too violent fury , he set espialls ouer Don Iulio when he should goe out of the towne on hunting , and set vpon him with a company of villaines , whome the Cardinall commanded in his owne presence to thrust out the eyes of his brother , because they onely were the choyce companions of his loue ; an acte no lesse infamous to the Cardinall , then intollerable to all humane gouernement . Whereupon the Cardinall to escape all punishment that might happen to be inflicted vpon him , hee presently fledde to Agria a Citty in Hungary , whereof he was Archbishop , & liued there vntill the death of Iulio the second then Pope of Rome , to auoyde his fury , who was much incensed against him . And because Ariosto would not followe him thither , as other of his seruants in his ranke did , he tooke it maruellously ill at his hands , and casting him from fauour vpon so sleight an occasion , gaue the Poet a ground for his inuention .

The second cause of his discontentment was , that he being of very familiar and inward acquaintance with the Medices of Florence , of which family two were Popes in his time , the one Leo the tenth , the other Clement the seuenth , both which he followed in good will , and stood them in greate stead as well when they were banished their country , as when they liued as priuate men in their owne citty : but when he sawe his expectation was deceiued , and that he found them not so ready to requite his seruice as himselfe imagined he had ( and that rightly ) deserued , he gaue them ouer quickly , and left the Romane Court , retyring himselfe to liue priuatly in Florence . For aboue all things he loued not to daunce long attendance at the Court for any preferment , neither would he be bound ( longer then he pleased ) vnto any man , although hee might haue had neuer so much , he prizing his liberty at so high a rate , as he esteemed the same more then the best Cardinals hat in Rome , as himselfe in his second Satyre affirmeth more plainly .

The third cause which made him passionate , was this : his father dying , left him a greate charge and very little liuing , there being fiue brothers of them , and as many sisters ( besides his old mother ) all which lay vpon his hands to prouide for them ; which was no small corsiue vnto him , to be troubled with so many worldly businesses , he beeing giuen by nature to ease and to sit quietly at his booke ; and this greeued him so much , as oftentimes he was giuing ouer his study cleane , meaning to follow the world another while , had it not beene that he was perswaded to the contrary by a gentleman a d●…are friend and kinsman of his , whom he dearely loued , called Pandolfo Ariosto , whose death afterward he very much lamented .

The fourth cause of discontentment was , he was much galled with the loue of women , whereunto he was a little too much giuen , it being a veniall sinne amongst the Italians ; yet is he the rather to be pardoned , in that he often confesseth his fault , and sheweth himselfe to be sorry for the same , wishing that he could haue amended it : and also because he deuoted himselfe vnto the seruice of such as were honorable , as was that most faire and vertuous widow descended of the noble family of the Lapi in Florence , as hee himself testifieth in one of his Canzons , in which he celebrateth the beauties and honors of his Mistrisse , setting downe therein the time when , and the place where he first was inamored of her ; which was in Florence , in the yeare 1513. vpon Saint Iohn Baptist day in Iune : at what time the Florentines vnder the conduct of their chiefe Captaynes , Iulian and Peter di Medices did solemnize many great feasts , and presented diuers rich showes and playes before the people , in honor of their brother Leo the tenth , who then was newly chosen Pope . But after Cardinall Hypolito dyed , Alfonzo Duke of Ferrara allured Ariosto by al the meanes he could vnto his Court , offering him great offices and preferments to haue serued him in ordinary , but he louing his liberty more then any treasure refused his proffer , & yet not altogether in such sort , but that in some fashion he was content to retaine vnto him . Againe , had he beene giuen to haue sought wealth and to haue heaped riches together , he could no way haue been without them for diuers great Princes being willing to haue had him liue in their Courtes with them , made tender of many great pensions vnto him , but he accepted of none : only he was content to offer his seruice ( as I sayde befor̄e ) to the aforesayd Duke Alfonso , whome he chose rather for country sake , and of meere loue to the place wherein he was borne , then for any great gaine or promotion which he expected .

Fiftly and lestly to conclude , he wrote these Satyres in Cardinall Hypolytoes time , and whilst he continued with Alfonso Duke of Ferrara ; who amongst other fauours done vnto him , made him president or lieutenant of acountry called Grassignana ( subiect vnto his Dukedome ) but because the people were very facticus and the country rebellious , and therefore he troubled ouer much with them , he tooke small pleasure in that gouernment , but rather mightily complaineth thereof , as is to be seene in the fourth and seuenth Satyre :

He was borne in Anno 1474 : in the Castle of Reggio , which standeth in Lumbardy , his father at that time being gouernour thereof : He dyed of a payne he had in his stomacke , and was buried in Saint Bennets Church in Ferrara , hauing a fayre monument of marble with his statue placed thereupon , and an Epytaph which a gentleman a friend of his bestowed vpon him .

The first Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

He sheweth what qualities such men ought to haue , who goe about to purchase credit and wealth in the Courts of Princes : and that both his seruice and his writings haue beene most vngratefully required by his Lord and Maister .

BRother , both of your selfe and of my friend To his Brother Mr. A. A. and his friend L. B. I faine would know this doubts vncertaine end : Whether the Court thinkes of vs as we be , Or in obliuion drownesour memorie . Whether my Lord accuse my staying heere , Or if I haue a friend so nobly deere , As in mine absence will excuse my blame , And gainst mine imputations , reasons frame : That albe others follow him , yet I , May stay behinde with ample honesty . Or whether all of you most learnedly , Read in the wealthy rules of flattery . ( That Goddesse of great Courtiers ) rather augment By your soft smoothings , his high discontent : And so lift vp the fury of his heart , Beyond both reason , sense , and my desart . Well , if you do so , you are then most wise , For so in these daies Courtiers onely rise : He is a foole that striues to liue by losse , And t' is wits madnesse when our prince we crosse : Not though he said he saw the mid-day bright , Couered with starres as in the darke of night ; No , he that will by great mens fauours liue , To sooth and flatter , must by no meanes grieue . Let greatnesse either praise or discommend , Do we not see how his attendants send , Their verdicts sorth , to iumpe with what he saies Like Echos , or the Actors of stage plaies , And from their lips send vollies of consent , As if t' were done by Act of Parliment : And if by chance , any amongst them be , ( As t' were most strange in such a company ) That dares not speake so much for bashfulnesse , Yet shall his looke applaud it nearthelesse : And his old shining countenance tell , that he In silence doth commend their flatterie : Though this in others you do discomend , Yet me it doth much reputation lend : Because what euer my resolues haue moulded , I plainly without flattery haue vnfoulded , And vtterd sorth my reasons in such sort , That no disgrace would to my fame retort , The least of which in this extremitie , I hold of worthy strong validity . As first my life , which nature bids me prize , Aboue all wealth that s vnderneath the skies , Nor will I it by follie shorter make , Then fortune or the heauens predestinate . If I should spend in trauaile my best times , And sucke th' infectious aire of forraine climes , Being already sickly , I should die , a a Two famous Physitions belonging to Alphonzo Duke of Ferara , the second of that name , the last of which is said to haue beene borne with a greene palme in his hand , and therefore was thought he would prooue an excellent Physitian , as afterward he did . Else Valentine and Post●… do lie . Againe , men say I know my bodies state , Better then any other can relate . Can iudge what for my selfe is good or ill , And therefore am referd to mine owne skill , Which being so , I know my natures strength Can not endure your cold climes : as at length , Your selues haue proued and found that Italie , Doth farre exceed the North in dignitie . Besides , the cold doth not offend me more , Then doth their stoues , whose heat I much abhor ; My nature being such , that euen the sent I loath as t' were a plague maleuolent . Nor the winters breaths with you a man , Without his hot house , bath , or warming pan ; Where here with vs , nature doth order keep , We drinke vntill we sweat , sweat till we sleep : Eate til our iawes ake , game till our bones are weary , Kisse till our lips smart : all things make vs merry . Then who that comes from vs , with you can liue In health , or to himselfe contentment giue ? b b Hee compareth that part of Hungary where the Cardinall was vnto the cold Ryphean mountaines in Scythia , which are euer couered ouer wit snow . When like Riphaean , snowie mountaines hie , Many through sharpnesse of the aire do die . As for my selfe , the vapours which exhale , And from my queasie stomacke rise and fall , Breeding Catharres , and my sick braines vnrest , Which soone from thence fal down into my breast , Would quickly rid me , in one night I know , Both of my life and sicknesse at a blow . Adde vnto this the strength of fuming wine , Which boiles like poison in these veines of mine , Which custome makes them quaffe & to carouse , Who doth refuse is sacrilegious : Their me●…t with pepper , and with spices hot , Is mixt to make them relish more the pot : Which diet Re●…son my Physitian saith , Will make my sorrow long , and short my breath . But you will answere me , that if I please , My selfe may be the Steward of mine ease . And both prouid warme lodgings and sound friends Who will not tie me those drunken ends . Which custome and the countries libertie , Hath knit to men of place and quality . You 'le say I may prouide my selfe a Cooke ; Whose care might ouer my prouisions looke . And that my selfe according to my pleasure Might with my coine , my conduit water measure , Whilest you and your associates with delight , Should make of one iust length both day and night : And I like to a Charterhouse close Frier , Sit in my chamber , and attend my fire , Eate mine owne breath , and most impatiently , Like Timon liue without mans company . And yet this is not all , behinde is worse , I must haue houshold stuffe to plague my purse : Both for my kitchin , and my chambers grace , As fathers furnish brides in such a case . c c This was Cardinall Hyp●…oes Cooke , whom hee had with him into Hungary . Besides , if master Pasquin , from his loue , For once or twice , should dain●… but to approue , To dresse my meat alone , yet in the end , He would my seuere humour discommend , And say , if such particulars I hold , I must prouide a Cooke of mine owne mould . And truly were my wealth strong as my will , Such counsaile I would earnestly fulfill . d d This was one of the greatest landed men in Ferara , whose father maried the base daughter of Borzo , somtime Duke of that City , by whom he had a mightie Masse of treasure , Or if I had Francisco ste●…iars wealth , No Prince should be more followd then my selfe : But this great charge , I can no way support , My meanes doth yield my minde so little comfort . Besides , if to my Steward I should say , ( What best these watrish humours doth alay ) That buy and buy ( what ere thou paiest ) the best , Because such things my stomacke doth disgest . If once or twice to please me he do frame , Foure times at least , he will forget the same . Not daring sometimes buy them from this feare , Lest I should it cause the price is deere . Hence comes it , oft I feed on bread alone , Which breedes in me the chollicke and the stone . Hence I liue priuate , hence I am subiect much , e e Ariosto by nature was very cholerick , & be moued for any small trifle , as may appeare by the breaking of the Potters pots , which is spoken of in the story of his life . To choler , and to euery peeuish tuch : Fretting and fuming with such peeuishnesse , That in my best friends , I leaue doubtfulnesse . Apollo thee I thanke , it is thy will , And you faire Muses of the learned hill : I find that for your sakes I not possesse , Apparell that will cloath my nakednesse . But say my Lord doth ( as it is most true ) Each seuerall yeare make me apparell new . Yet for your sakes that he performe the same , T' is most vntrue , or so to thinke a blame . Himselfe auowes as much , as well I may With reputation write what he doth say , Yet am no neerer my cares to rehearse , Sith he respects strawes better then my verse . All creatures can commend sweet poesie , But none respects the Poets pouertie f f He meaneth Orlando Farioso , about which worke Ariosto spent almost 18 yeares , taking his subiect out of Connt Boyardo , Earle of Scandiane in Lumbardy , who finisht 3. bookes of Orlando , 〈◊〉 . That famous worke which I in painefull wise Compos'd to raise his glories to the skies He doth deny the merit of all fame , Learning must beg ; but rich men are to blame , To gallop vp and downe , and post it hard : My Lord auowes t' is he deserues reward , Who keepes his banquet-house and banco sweet And like a Spaniell waits vpon his feet . That nicely plaies the secret Chamberlaine , And watches euery houre with great paine : Or he that to his bottles cleanly lookes . And cooles his ale or wine in running brookes : Or else his Page that dares not close an eie , Vntill the Bergamiskes industriously , Beat on their anuils , whose very sound Brings the poore sleepy boy into a swound . To these he giues his great beneuolence , And doth approue their worthes by recompence : He saith if in my bookes he praised be , T' is nothing or to him , or vnto me . And that it was the seede of Idle time , Nourisht by vanitie and foolish rime , And from my seruice he might more haue gained , If I in other sort to him retained . g g This was a certaine office of no great value in Millain , which the Cardinal bestowed vpon him . What if within the Millan chancery , Vnder the shew of some authority , He hath bestow'd not fully out a third , Of that true gaine the place might well afford Vnto my labour , yet what was done therein ? Was that my trauell might his profit bring , And that mine endlesse trauell and my cares , Might bring an end vnto his great affaires ? Well Virgil if thou wilt be worldly wise , Let my too deare bought counsell thee aduise , Thy h●…rp , thy bookes , thy verse with darknes shade , And in thine old age learne some handy trade : Or if thou hopest in this world to gaine , Some office get , or to some Prince retaine : For worse plague I neare wish mine enemie , Then to be famous for sweete Poetry . Yet this be sure , thy liberty is lost , Vncertainty of place so deare doth cost : Nor thinke although thou liuest vntill thy haire Like flakes of snowie Apenius appeare , Or that thy Lord as many old daies haue , As aged Nestor bore vnto his graue . Thinke not , I say , that thou shalt euer come , By him or by his meanes to hier Rome : Or if once tired with seruitude thou please But to looke back or turne vnto thine ease . Blest maist thou be if he vouchsafe to take , But from thee what he gaue for vertues sake , And so without more thought of iniury , Send thee away with thred-bate charitie . As for my selfe what euer he hath giuen , If he back take and make my fortunes euen , h h Two famous cities in Hungarie , whereof the first now called Osen , hath vnder the walles towards the north west side , two fountaines or springs running out of a maine hill , the one of which is passing cold , and yet sauoureth of brimstone , & the other so hot that one cannot suffer his finger in it . The other citie celled Agria was an Archbishopprick , and the Cardinall Lord thereof , where he staid during the papacie of Iulio the second , whose furie he seated , because he had delt so vnnaturally & barbarously , with his owne brother , as is shewed before in the generall argument . Both these townes now are subiect to the Turke . Because that Buda neither Agria I Would see or follow him in Hungarie : Yet I mislike not , force makes me content , And shall doe , since against me he is bent ; Although away those prosperous plumes he bring , Which euen him selfe did fix vnto my wing ; i i The Cardinall Hypolite was much incensed against Ariosto , because he would not follow him into Hungarie , as the rest of his men did . Although he doe exclude me from all grace , And will not smile on me with chearefull face : Although he say I am disloiall proued , Respectlesse , base , vnworthy to be loued ; And that his publique speeches doe declaime , How much he hates my memorie and name : Yet patience shall within my bosome sit , And thinke that I was borne to suffer it . This was the reason that I haue remoued My best obseruance , since I was not loued : Knowing it was effectles to approue , To bring incensed greatnes back to loue . k k The house of Esta is said to haue descended from Rogero that famous Palladine which belonged vnto Charles the great . This Rogero is reported to come from the stock of Alexander the great , his father was King of Riza not far from the mountaine of Carena , and his mother was called faire Galacuella , who was sister vnto Agramant King of Africk , whose chiefe citie was Bizerta quite raced & destroied by Charles the great , & his Palladines . Rogero afterwards lost his life through the treason of that notable arch-traitor Gano , falling into a wonderfull deepe pit , wherein he with Gradasso king of Sericano , who had maried Rogeroes sister Marsyza , were most pitifully famished to death : for which , with other horrible treasons more , Gano being after taken , was torne in pe●…es with wild horses . Rogero , if thy royall progeny , From their disdaine blast me with obloquie , And I from them haue nothing got , altho Their worthy valours and braue deedes I shoe , Spending my time and wit most studiously , To raise them tombes vnto eternity , Then what should I doe with them ? t is well knowne l l Ariosto neither loued hunting , hauking , nor much riding , for growing in yeares he became very corpulent , grose and vnwieldy . I am no falkconer , all my arte is flowne . From such light vanities , I haue not the skill , To make my spaniels noses please my will : Nor was I euer brought vp to the same , Or can there to my worst indeauors frame : For I am big , vnwieldy , grose and fat , And such strong motions gree not with my state . I haue no curious taste , or eie of fire To please the tongue or the vnchast desire . Steward nor Cater to a noble man , I was not borne to be , I nothing can In those low offices . It had beene good , I then had liu'd when men eate homely food . m m This was the Cardinals Steward , meaning hee would not if he might haue his place , although he fared very daintily , for he was giuen by nature to feed meanly and grossely . Gismundt accounts , I will not on me take , n n Pope Iulio the second , intending to make wartes vpon the Duke of Ferara , ( whose brother the Cardinall Hypolito was ) Ariosto was chosen as a most fit man to go in ambassadge vnto him , to pacifie his wrath , which businesse he managed so well , that he wan great reputation vpon his returne home againe , yet the aforesaid Pope , afterward falling out again with the Duke , and euery man shunning the office of embassador , vnto him , knowing his furious & angry nature , Ariosto once more for the seruice of his Prince , and the safety of his country , did aduenter to take this hard enterprise in hand , where he had like to haue lost his life , but that he secretly got away . This Pope Iulio was fitter to haue beene a Souldier then a Priest , of whom it is said , that hearing he had lost certaine of his army in the battel , apparelled himselfe in compleat armor , & marching on the way as he came ouer Tyber , he in a great rage threw the keies of Peter therein , saying , he would see if the sword of Paul would stand him in better steed . Nor vnto Rome an idle iourney make , Posting with all my reasons to asswage The fiery heat of great Secundus rage . But say my fortune at such ods should runne , That needes by me such seruice must be done : I feare me in the businesse would be found , Dangers more great , and able to confound . Besides , if such hard seruices must be , And that men must attend with slauery , o o He alludeth a certaine signe in Rome , where a man is painted , waiting and attending on a Beare . As doth Arctophylax vpon the Beare : He that desires to purchase gold so deere Let him enioy it freely ; for my selfe I will not at so high rate buy my wealth . Before aduancement in such sort shall please , I le only study how to gaine mine ease : Rather then cares shall compasse me about And from my mind thrust contemplation out : Which though my body it enrich not right , Yet to my mind it addes such rare delight , That it deserueth in immortall stories , To be enrold with all admired glories . And hence it comes my pouertie I beare , As it on earth my best of best things were . This makes that brothel wealth I doe not loue , Or that great name or titles do me moue : Or any State allurements so adore , That I wil sell my libertie therefore . This makes me neuer to desire or craue , What I not hope for , nor am like to haue . Nor choler nor disdaine doth me assaile , Nor inward enuy shewes my count'nance pale ; Sith M●…ron or C●…lio are Lords created , Or from low basenes into greatnes stated . Nor doe I care for sitting at great tables , Soothing the humors of these pufpast bables ; But hold them as the scum of foolery , Whom rymers taxe in idle balladry : That I without attendants am content , To walke a foote , and make my selfe consent To follow mine affaires ; and when I ride , To knit my cloak-bag to my horses side , As much doth please me , as at my command , A world of mercenary knaues did stand . And sure I thinke my sinne is lesse each way , In this ( for I respect not what men say . ) Then when in court I am inforst to bribe , And euery scornefull proud delay abide , Ere our most lawfull suits vnto the Prince , We can preferre and be dispacht from thence , Or slander honest titles , or subuert , Right without reason , conscience or desert , Only to shew our malice , or what s worse , ( Because thereon doth hang a heauy curse ) To make poore parsons buy their tenths so deare , That they are double forc't their flocks to sheare . Besides , it makes me with a pure deuotion , Thank my good God for my lowe safe promotion , And that where ere I come I this haue proued , I liue amongst the best and am beloued . T is knowne though I no seruice had , I haue p p Ariosto being of nature desirous to be quiet , and to be his owne man , had rather haue a small thing of his owne , then to serue others & inioy much : for indeede his liuing was but small , although he set a good face on the matter . Goods to maintaine me , and to buy a graue . That which to me from birth and fortune came , Is such as I may boast without my shame : But for I will not worke your too much paine , To my first song I will returne againe , That I no true occasion haue to grieue , Because in your commercement I not liue . I haue already strength of reasons showne , And yet if more should be vnto you knowne , It would be to no end , sith I doe see , That our opinious warres will not agree . Yet with one other more I will contest , Because I hold it stronger then the rest : If I from my poore house should start away , All would to wrack , I being all their stay . q q Although Ariosto were his fathers eldest sonne , yet he had 4 brethren more , and fiue sisters , & therefore his l●…uing could not be but small , considering his charge . The names of his brethren were Charles , Alexander , Galasso and Gabriel . cha●…es was a soldier , & was then in Hungarie with a friend of Ariostos , a captaine called Cleanth●… , who hauing the keeping of a castle there , was driuen from it by the Turkes . Alexander was secretarie to the Cardinall Hypolito , & followed him into Hungarie : but Gabriel although he were borne ●…ame , yet Ariosto brought him vp so well , as he became a reasonable good schollar , and followed his booke hard , yet much inferior to his brother . Of fiue of vs ( all which now liuing are ) Three are remoued into Regions farre . As Charles , who in that kingdome meanes to stay , From whence the Turkes Cleanthus driue away : G●…llasso for a Bishoprick in Rome , Doth daily gape and lookes when it should come . Thou Alexander dost with my Lord remaine , Making thy seruice purchase of thy gaine . Only poore Gabriels here : but what wouldst thou That he should doe hereafter ? or what now ? He as thou know'st , of hands and feete is lame , And so into this wretched world first came . Abroad he hath not gone , which cannot go , Little hath seene , and le●…ethen then that doth know : Onely at home he doth securely bide . Now he that takes vpon him for to guid A house , as I haue done , must haue respect , That they doe not the impotent neglect . My maiden sister is with me beside , Whose dowrie I am bound I shall prouide : Til which I haue effected honestlie , I can nor say nor thinke that I am free . r r He was a most duetifull and charitable man to all his poore kindred , especially vnto his old mother who liued in the house with him many yeares , of whom he had a most reuerend care and respect . Lastly , th' unweildie age of mine old mother , Doth all my other cogitations couer : She must not be forsaken of vs all , Vnlesse to ruine wee will headlong fall . Of tenne I am the eldest , and am growne An old man full offortie foure yeares knowne , My head is bald , and for I sicknes feare , My braines to comfort , I a night cap weare . The small remainder of my life behind , To keepe it curiously is all my minde . But thou whose issue from my mothers wombe , After me fully eighteene yeares didst come , Go thou and serue my Lord , and spend thy breath In heate , in cold , in danger and to death . Go view the world , high Duch and Hungarie , Attending on him most obsequiously . Serue for vs both , and where my zeale doth lack , Make thou amends and bring my fauours back . Who if he truly please of me to thinke , The seruice I can doe him is with inke To giue his fame large wings , not in the field , To proue my force , in such assaults I yeeld . Say vnto him , Great Lord at thy command , My brothers seruices doe humbly stand , Whilst I at home with a shril trumpets sound , Will spread his worthy name vpon the ground : That it shall goe as farre as Sea or land , Yea and beyond the Gadean pillars stand . s s Two cities standing in the furthermost parts of the duke of Feraras dominions . To Ariano and Filo it shall fly , But not so farre as flowes swift Danuby : For my weake muse can hardly iumpe so farre , So wet ( alasse ) my feete and bodie are . But could the glasse of time to me restore , Those fifteene yeares which I haue spent before , Then would I neuer doubt but that the fire Of my quick braine through all worlds should aspire . But if he thinkes because he giues to me , Each foure monthes twenty fiue crownes for a fee : Which pension is not alwaies duely paid , But many times by many humors staid : I therefore shall such bondage to him owe , As if I were his villaine , and not know Ought but his will , my health and life neglect , Enter all dangers without all respect : If so he think , his greatnes is mistaken , Nor shall he finde my liberty forsaken . Tel him ere i le liue in such slauery , I le entertaine most loathsome pouerty . Once there an Asse was , of his skinne and bone A tale . So leane , that vnder them he flesh had none , Who stealing through a hole that broken was , Into a barne well stuft with corne did passe , Where he so cloid his stomack and his hart , That he grew fat and full in euery part ; His bodie growne to such a shapeles masse , That like a tun his huge proportion was . But in the end fearing if he should stay , His bones too dearely for his meate should pay , Intends to issue forth where he came in , But is deceiued , for why his bellies skinne , Hath made his bulke so great with that he stole , His head can hardly now peepe through the hole : Nearth'lesse he striues and struggles much in vaine , Lost is his labour and his booteles paine . A little mouse which spi'd him , thus did say , Asse if from hence thou wilt thy selfe conuay : Thy bodie thou must bring to such poore case , As when thou first didst come into this place , Leane and like carion must thy carcase be , Else neare expect safe harmelesse liberty . Hence I conclude , and boldly dare impart , That if my Princely master from his hart , Thinke with his gifts that he hath purchast me , It shall not to my selfe ought grieuous be , That I restore them back to him againe , So I my former libertie may gaine . Freedome I onely loue , since I did heare , That men doe many times buy gold too deare .

The second Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

He sheweth in his owne person that nature is contented with little , and how much a man should esteeme of his liberty . The troublesome life of Church-men , and the great miseries wherein those of the Court of Rome liue .

SIth mine affaires , not my desires become , To his reuerend Brother G. A. The causes why I goe to visit Rome : a a At the election of new Cardinals , and at the death of the old , the other Cardinals vse ( through friendship ) to exchange their first liuings for others that are better . When Card'nals change their skinnes like to the Snake , And for their God doe better choices make : Now when no dangerous sicknesses abound , To infect mens bodies that are weake or sound , Although a greater plague afflicts their mindes , b b This is one of the greatest offices belonging to the Apostolieal sea , it is not much different from the Roules here with vs in England . Whilest that same wheele or Ruota turnes and windes : O not that wheele , which doth Ixion scurge , But that which doth in Rome so shrewdly purge Mens purses ; whilest through long & vile delaies , Lawyers on them ( As foule on carion ) praies : c c This was his third brother , of whom he spake in his first Satyre , he was a Church-man , and lay in Rome to get some benefice or Church liuing . Gallasse pray thee take for me ( not farre From that same place where thy commercements are , I meane neare to that sumptuous Temple braue , Which auncient Fathers that stout Priests name gaue , Who Malchas eare from off his head did cleaue , And more had done , might he haue had but leaue ) A lodging for foure beasts : by which I meane , d d This was his man he kept , & one that had serued him long his name was Iohn de pascia , to whom when he died , he left halfe of all the moucables les hee had , because he had bin an honest & faithful seruant vnto him Account me with my man ( old Iohn ) for twaine . The other two a Moile and Gelding is , A tired iade , that all his teeth doth misse . Let it be lightsome , but not mounting hie , I cannot brooke this climbing to the skie . A chimney let it haue that will not smoake , For such perfumes do both me blind & choake . Of our poore iades , thou likewise must take care , For should their prouender be scant or bare , Little the stables warmt'h would them auaile , And in my iourney I should hap to faile . My bed and bedding of the best I craue , That so my rest might sweeter quiet haue . The matter cotten of fine wooll and thinne , By no meanes let it be within an Inne . My wood to burne , I would haue old and drie , That it might dresse my meat conueniently . A bit of Mutton , Biefe , or Lambe , or Veale , For me and for my man doth full auaile . e e Although the Poet was very carefull of his health , & very precise in smal matters yet in his diet he was very plain & grosse , & not ouer daintie in feeding at all , as himselfe affirmeth in the first Satyr . No curious Kitchin cooke I do desire , With sauce to set mine appetite on fire : Making me haue a stomacke gainst my will , Or being full haue still desire to fill . Let those proud curious Artists vse their braine , To keep their pots and vessels siluer cleane , And tend on Ladies , or for recompence f f This was a noble man of Mantu , a who delighted so much in gluttony as hee had choice and change of all sauces for all kinds of meats , he vsed to ea●…e the more to increase his appetite . Hee was surnamed by some , Lucuilus of Mantua . Striue to content Varranos glutton sence : Whilest I with a poore scullion am content , And being cleanly , thinke him excellent . He that by eating , seekes still how to eate , And makes not hunger sauce vnto his meat , Let him go cast his vomit farre from me , I le neither hold his rule nor companie . Cookes now on euery vpstart fellow waite , Who but erewhile did cheese and onions eate , And in a russet frock was glad to keep , On barren hils his masters flocks of sheep ; But now ( this bore ) growne rich by fortunes grace , Sh●…mes euen to heare of his first fortunes place . His Pheasants , Larks , & Blackbirds haue he must , Who erst was glad to leap euen at a crust : Alwaies to feed vpon one dish of meat , Doth cloy his stomacke , and he cannot eate . He now the wild bores taste doth truely know , Which vp and downe the drier mountaines goe , From th' other which rich Elizean fields , ( Fatned ) vnto the Roman market yeelds . I seeke no water from the fountaines cleare , But that which come from Tyber , and is neare , So it be setled well and very pure ; For troubled waters hardly I endure : For wine it skils not , yet good wine I loue , And mixt with water many times do proue , ( Though very little ) and the tauerne still , Will yeeld as much or little as I will . The wines which grow vpon the marrish brinke , Vnlesse delayed much I neuer drinke . The stronger wine , my brain doth make the worse Offends my stomack , & my voice makes hoarse . What then will these do , which are drunke with you ' I doubt the proofe I shall but find too true . g g The wines of the Iland of Corfica , are so excellent good and strong , as there is a ptouerb in Italy of them , which is An Corso , vn Greco , vn Romanesco . The Corsick wines , and those of faithles Greece , Nor the Lygurian , though all of one price , Are not so vile as these : these are so strong , That to the best conceits they do much wrong . The Frier that in his study priuate sits , Is with this liqu or thrust out of his wits , The whilest with expectation and much doubt , The wondring people gaze and looke about . When he the Gospels blessed truth should shoe , Who comes no sooner forth , but vp doth goe Into the pulpit with a fiery grace , A red-rose cheeke , and a dislemperd face : Making a noise with violence of passion , And swearing out the scriptures in strange fashīo , Threatning such iudgments , & such damned fate , That all his audience he makes desperate . h h A notable drunkard , ●…ut otherwise a man that had good parts in him , being Steward or Bailiffe vnto the Monestarie of Sta. Maria , Ara Coeli , a house of Franciscan Friers in Rome of which couét also Frier Gnaling was , a good scholler , but ouer much giuen to drinking . This also troubleth M●…sier Moskins head , Whilest he is caried drunke vnto his bed , And F●…ier Gnaling with his company , Faining to hate Vennachia mightily , Who once but got out of their cloister doore , i i Two of the chiefest Tauerns in Rome , where most commonly the best wine and best victuals were , & where most Dutchmé resort , when they come to the City . Toth Gorgon or the Aeihiopian More They go , and there Pigeons and Capons fat , They eate vntill they breathe and sweat thereat : So likewise vse they , when as all alone , They forth from their Refectorie are gone . Prouide me bookes to pasle those houres away , In which Romes prelates , onely feed and play . Who once abroad , they giue a strait command , None enter at their gates in any hand : As Friers do vse , who bout the mid of day , k k It is a fashion in religious houses , when they are once set at dinner or supper neuer to open their dore vnto any man , knocke they neuer so much , vntill they are ris●…n from the table , which order the Iesuits obserue more strictly then any other . ( Although you ring the bell , cry loud or pray ) Yet once set at the table , they 'le not moue , Were it to gaine more then a Princes loue . My Lord I le say ( for brother is too base , Since Spanish complement tooke plainnes place , And Sr. is sent to euery bawdy house , T' is now so common and ridiculous : Signior I 'le terme the basest Rascall now , And making courtsie low vnto him bow ) For Gods sake pray your reuerend Lord to daine To lend his eare whilest I of wrongs complaine . l l Hee setteth downe the proud humour of the Spaniard when he is at his table , in his own language . Agora non sepuede , will he say , Es megiore , ( good sir ) to go your way . Evo●… torneis a la magnana . Then If you reply vpon him fresh agen , And say ; yet let me trouble you once more , Tell him I do attend him at the dore . Then surely Cerberus growes Peacocke proud , And this rough answer thunders forth aloud . I tell thee friend , my Lord is at repose , And will not troubled be with suters woes : He will not speake with Peter , Paul nor Iohn , Nor heare the embassie of any one : m m This speech is reported to come from Cardinal S. George , who being high Chamberlain vnto the Apostolike sea , & a man of migh , tie wealth and authoritie , it hapned that the Pope ( that then was ) sent one of his chiefe officers to speake with him about some matter of importance : he being then set at dinner , whervpon one of the Cardinals Gentlemen told his Lord in his care , that there was one very desirous to speake with him from his holinesse : but he not noting any thing , made shew as if hee did not heare his man : whereupon the partie returned back vnto him that was at the doore , certifying him that hee had deliuered his message , but his Lord Seenied to giue no care vnto him . Notwithstanding this the messenger told him , he must needes speake with him , and with all , vsed such perswasions vnto him , that the yong Gentleman ( although very loath ) knowing his Lords cholericke nature , returned backe vnto the Cardinall , certifying him once more that the aforesaid partie desired very earnestly to speake with him but one word from the Pope , and that it was Mr. Paul Archdeacon of Saint Anastalens one of the Masters of the Chauncery : to whom Saint George ( raising himselfe vp a little in his ch●… , and looking very angerly vpon his man ) burst out into these blasphemous speeches . Tell him I wil not speak with Paul nor Peter , no nor with their master the Nazaret himself now I am set at dinner . The Gentleman hearing such a terrible shot discharged at his care made haste to report the same to the Archdeacon , who was walking vp and downe before the doore to coole himselfe , who hearing the Cardinals answere , made the signe of the crosse and blessed himselfe , saying , it may well be that Saint George who is a Souldiers rough companion , and one that wanteth good manners might send such 〈◊〉 answere : But I am sure , Christ himselfe would neuer haue sent so plaine a message vnto his holinesse , and thereupon he de●…ed . No though his master Narzareth were here , He would not daine to moue out of his chaire . And therefore thou nor manners hast nor shame , Thy suits at such vnfitting times to frame . But had I Linx his eies on them to prie , As with my minds eies I them full espy , Or were they but transparant like to glasse , That through their inmost thoughts my sight might passe : Such deedes I then ( perhaps ) should see them act Within their priuy chambers : that the fact Would giue them iuster cause themselues to hide , From heauens sunne , then any man beside . But they in time I hope will quite forsake This loathed life , and better vertues take . This as an Item is to their transgression , To shew I wish and pray for their conuersion . But sure I am , thou longst to know why I Desire to visit Rome thus speedily . u u This office I spake of before , was giuen him by the Car dinal , which he sought to get during his own life by patent from the Pope , the same being one of the chief occasions why he would lie a while in Rome . Well , I will tell thee : T is because I seeke A liuing small by patent safe to keep : An office t is , which I in Millan hold , ( Although but smal ) yet more then lose I would : o o St. Agaps is a Church in Rome , not far from the Piscaria or Fish-market , the reuersion of which benefice , Ariosto was offred , although he would not accept thereof , as you may read a litle after . And to prouide St. Agaps parsonage , I might possesse if th' old Priest worne with age , And much expence of time , should hap to die , During the time , my fortunes there should lie . Thou wilt suppose I runne into the net . Which I was wont to say , the diuell did set To catch those fooles , whose ouer burning hearts Swallowes their makers bloud without desarts : But t is not so , my thoughts did ne're agree , To loue this cure or callings soueraginty : My meaning is , the liuing to bestow , On such a one as mine owne thoughts doe know Fit for the same , for his liues grauity , His learning , manners , vertue , honesty . p p Two things our Poet reuerenced , and would often commend them , the one was Priest-hood , & the other Mariage , and yet he liked neither of them both . To be a sacred Priest I will not proue , Cope , Rochet , Surplice , nor a Stole I loue : Nor will I haue a shau'd anointed crowne , Or weare the ring which Bishops do renowne . In vaine I go about to take a wife , If I should aime at a religious life : Or hauing taken one but to suppose , That for the Church t' were fit my wife to lose : But both these callings are of such desart , That albe I adore them in my heart : Yet when I thinke how full they are of care , Of neither ( with resolue ) I venture dare . Priest-hood and mariage , who so doth obtaine , Saue but by death , no freedome can attaine . But here ( perhaps ) thou maiest demand of me , My reasons fault and insufficiency : Wherefore so great a burthen I do take , And instantly the same away do shake , Seeking to giue mine honours to another . Well though thy selfe , my friends & euery other , Shall blame , nay hate me , sith I doe let go , And will not take my fortunes when they floe ; Yea since at bounties hands I le not accept The gifts of greatnesse , but doe all neglect , To shriue my soule to thee , and shew the cause , Which me to such a course of follie drawes : q q Ariosto was a man of so good a conscience , That a certaine old Priest , hauing a fat benefice , called S. Angello , in the Piscaria in Rome , of which wee but now spake , and being in doubt to be poysoned , for greedinesse of the same , by some of his neerest kindred who thought to haue had the next Aduowson thereof , had so good an opinion of the honesty of Ariosto , as he offred to resigne the same vnto him , during his life , & to soiourne with him rather then with any of his own friends . Ariosto in some sort accepted of his kind pro●… , pe●…ading him to resign it vnto one of his brethren , because he liked not ( as I●…old ●…old you before ) to be a 〈◊〉 , which when he could not by any meanes bring the old P●…est vnto , he then got him ●…o bestow it vpon another honest man fit for the place . T is thus . The old priest hauing vnderstood , By the best friend both to his age and bloud : That vnderhand his death was closely wrought , By one that for his holy liuing sought , Fearing by poison to be made away , He sends for me , and humbly doth me pray : That I into the open court would come , And there take resignation of his roome : Thinking this meanes to be the onely best , By which his life might in most safetie rest . I thankt him for it , yet did all I could , That he to thee or Alexander would , ( Whose nature in no opposition stands , With holy orders or with holy hands ) His right and intrest passe , but t' would not be , Nor to my motions would his sense agree . Nor you , nor his owne kindred would he trust , But ( like himselfe ) thought all men were vniust : Onely my selfe aboue a world he chose , And on my faith did all his trust repose : But when I saw from him I could not haue it To doe you good ; vnto a third I gaue it . Many I know will me condemne therein , Sith ( carelesse ) I refuse such good to winne . The rather , sith preferment in it is , Whose pathes who treads can neuer honor misse . r r He taxeth religious men , who vnder the colour of humility are growne so proud , as the greatest monarchs are glad to humble thē●… selues vnto them . Those poore religious wormes scarse profitable , Simple , vnlearned , weake vnfit , vnable , Base and despis'd , contem'd of greatest part , Haue got on best deserts so much the start , As greatest kings are glad they may adore them , And blest is he that most may fall before them . But who so holy or so wise hath beene , As in his life no fortune hath ore seene ? Either in little or in much I know , There s none that can himselfe so perfit shoe . Each man his humor hath , and this is mine , s s He priseth his libertie at a higher rate then to be the wealthiest Cardinall in all Rome . Before I will my libertie resigne , The richest hat in Rome I would refuse , Though King or Cardinall they should me chuse . What good to me is got by highest place , Or at the Table to receiue most grace ? If thence I rise no better satisfi'd , Then he which in the meanest rome doth bide : So though my head with waight downe burdned be , Of miters stor'd with pretious Iewelrie , What doth it me auaile , if for all this True ioy and quietnes of minde I misse ? Let others thinke it a beatitude , That they are sought vnto , obseru'd and su'd , That armies of attendants doe them grace , Treading their steps through euery publike place , Whilst all the people with astonisht eies , Stare to behold their flattred maiesties . Yet I suppose them idle vanities . Yea worse , euen worst of earthly miseries . I am so foolish mad , that ost I say , In brothel Rome the Lord is euery way , More slaue then is his slaue man to his man ; And t is most true , deny it who so can . The bondage wherein seruingmen do stand , Is barehead to obey each slieght command , To run or ride with him , which once expir'd , There nothing else is at his hands required . This being done , he may go where he please , Frolick or game , reuell or rest at ease . t t In Rome euery base fellowe hath his mistres , which he keepeth Ala po●…ta , as they terme it . Only his care is , that at euerie leasure , He cannot see his wench , or haue that pleasure . Else as he list , he may go sport about , Either with company or else without . On foote or horseback ( if he money haue ) Be ciuill , or else swagger like a knaue . In market , in the Tauerne , in Th' exchange , Or in the brothell if he list to range . Cloathes he may weare , of cullers light or darke , Go as he please ; he is not enuies marke , None take exception gainst him , he may go Naked , if naked he himselfe wil shoe ; Whereas his Lord ( because he will haue place , To suit his ranke , and giue his glories grace ) Doth leaue the safer seate , and though he gaine More honor , yet doth lesser wealth retaine . With profit lesse , and yet with greater charge , He steares the helme in vaine expences barge . Many he feedes , sith many on him tend , Though his reuenues are but small to spend : For count his first fruits with his bribes and all , Many yeares profits doe to ruine fall . Adde vnto this , how he in debt doth stand , For furnishing his house at second hand . His gifts to courtiers ( but in courtesie ) Chiefly to that great patron Simonie , Who is his chiefest saint and aduocate , Because he best doth know his purses state . But all the sport is , when his holinesse Sends to imploy him in some seriousnes . O then , if any of his followers misse , He cannot go , the way forbidden is . If that his coach be not in sight at hand , Or if his moiles doe not most ready stand , If any thing be orderlesse displac't , He rages straight , his honor is disgrac't : If one rude wrinckle in his gowne be found , T is to his place more then a deadly wound : His seruants must in comely equipage , March two and two according to their age : When if the basest groome in all his traine , His very scullion but behind remaine , He sweares as though he gaue the world this tuch , That hee 's diuine , he nameth God so much . Out doth he cry he is discredited , If by such slaues he be not followed . On no Euangelist he now doth looke , ( Good man ) his age cannot indure his booke . Onely he doth deuise how he may spend Little ; and how his liuing he may mend , To draw the bowe too farre , breakes it in twaine , And thriftie sparing is the Lord of gaine . I will not say but diuers there may be , That haue both offices and lands in fee . Who liue at harts ease farre b●…yond the best , Free from disturbance , tumult or vnrest : Nor horse , nor beast , nor man he scarsly keepes , Whilst with a full purse he securely sleepes : But there are fewe of t●…ose , for in these daies , He 's blest that liues content with his owne case ; Now he that s plum'd with sterne ambitious wings , And vp to heauen his cogitations flings , He neuer with his owne estate is pleased , But shapes newe scales by which he will be raised ; From Bishop straight he hath a wishfull hope To climbe to be the second next the Pope : When he hath that go●… will he then be quiet ? No ; for his stomack must haue choicer diet . He now aimes at the sea●…e Pontificall , To tread on kings on ●…mperours and all ; But when he hath obtaind this blessed chaire , Will he be pleased then and free from care ? Neither : for now his children and his friends To places of great honor he co●…nds ; When he was poore he sca●…e was knowne to any , Now beeing Pope he is a kin to many : Yet from the Epyrots , nor from the Greeke , To giue them kingdomes doth he euer seeke , Neither of Africk nor of Barbarie Plotteth to giue them any 〈◊〉 Nor will he striue to pull the Pagans downe , And to impale his kinsmen with their crowne , To purchase which all Europe is at hand , Furnisht with men and money at command , Whilst he but acts what doth to him belong ? Weakningthe Turks , making the Christians strong . He rather seekes by trechery and art , The noble Colonessi to subuert , Or to extirp Ursinos princely name , x x The names of the two chefest and most antient houses of the Colonessi & the ●…sini To gaine all Talliacorzos worthy fame ; As from the other he got Palestine , By royall policie surnamd diuine : Whilst in the mean time drunk with Christian blood , He sits and triumphs in his ample good , Some he sees strangled , some their heads do lose , And euery thing quite topsie turuie goes . Nor will he sticke to giue all Italie , A pray to France , to Spaine or Germany ; And making a confusion of each thing , y y Here Ari●…to is very plaine with the Popes & their kindred . It shall go hard but one halfe he will bring Vnto his bastard blood , nor doth he care Tho th' other part fall to the Diuels share . Then flies abroad excommunications , Like vollies of great shot , in strangest fashion : Then roares the buls worse then the Basan host , Whilst Belles and bookes and candles curses bost . Hence Indulgence and pardons haue beene found , To be of warres the instruments and ground . z z The gentlemen of Italie for the most part keepe no table for their followers as they doe here in England , but hire them by the months , giuing them so many crownes euery foure weekes as they agree vpon , & euery morning they come into their masters hall , where they haue certaine equall allowance of bread and wine , which ( God knowes ) is but course and small , euery one seuerally to him●…lfe , and that is all he shall haue for that day . From hence with gold the bearded muffe is prest . Of all his valures power to shoe the best . Sons the drunken Dutchman who for pay , Is hir'd in right or wrong or any way , These must haue gold ( without which thei 'le not fight , And all this charge doth on the subiect light . Oft haue I heard ( and doe beleeue the same ) By those which know the trueth of euery fame : That neither Bishop , no nor Cardinall , Nor yet the Pope , who is the head of all , Had euer money to supply their want , But that the end grew niggardly and scant . But let this go , times now are at such passe , That though one be a foole , a dolt , an asse , Base of conditions , and ( if 't may be ) worse , Yet if he haue a well fild heauie purse He may doe what he list , nor neede he care What others of his actions shall declare : Yet those which hoard most , and haue most to giue , Most commonly most wretchedly doe liue . Witnesse the starued houshold , who with griefe Complaine their ruines , yet find no reliefe . The more the wealthy wittie courtier holds , The lesse vnto the worlds eie he vnfolds . Of foure parts of his liuing , three he will Be sure ( all charges borne ) to coffer still . a a Some great estates there are in Italie , as Barrons and Bishops that keepe a table for their followers , but their cheare with their bread and wine , is so bad as it doth them little good , and the rather because they can neuer eat their bellies full , for the steward sitting at the table , assoone as euer he holdeth vp his white staffe , ( which is the signe of his office ) straight the cloth is taken vp , & they are forct to rise from the board , when oftentimes they haue not halfe eaten what would satisfie nature , & this is the cause instead of saying grace , that they fall a cursing when they leaue the ●…able . A mans allowance or of bread or biefe , Is halfe a pound of either for reliefe : And that ( God knowes ) is either tough or crusty , Or hardly mans meate , being old and musty . Now as his bread and flesh is of worst sort , So thinke his drinke deserues as vile report , Either it is like vineger most tarte , Or Rasor-like it makes the pallat smart : Either in taste or relish t is so small , That it hath lost both colour strength and all . Or to be breefe , in ilnes t is beyond The Puddle water or the stinking pond : b b The Swizzers or Muffes are those people which the antient Historiographers ( as Cesar & others ) call Heluetians , they haue their habitations in the most high hils of ●…ura , named S. Claude , they are a race of men naturally warlik & rude , & for the sterrillitie of their country more giuen to grasing then to tillage . They are free of themselues , sometimes they were vnder the Duke of Austria , & now are subiect vnto no Prince , but liue of themselues . They are diuided into thirteene comminalties , called Cautons , & wil be hired of any Prince for money to fight in their warres , be it right or wrong they neuer respect the same , so they be well paid , and haue their pay truely . Yet had a man sufficiency offoode , And at his pleasure drinke to doe him good : Though they were homely and indifferent , His grief were lesse , and time much better spent : But both beeing bad , and of that bad no store , Needs must the hart break or else couet more . But thou wilt say , a seruant that is wise , Will beare with this and smoothly temporise , Because that scale which raiseth vp his Lord , Doth some aduancement to him selfe afford , And as the master mounts the man shall rise , If with discretion he his wrongs disguise . But such like fortunes are not generall , For they like blazing comets seldome fall . " Honors change maners , new Lords makes new lawes " And all ther seruants to their purpose drawes . " Old seruants like old garments are cast by , " When new adorne them with more maiestie . " Seruice is no inheritance we know , " For he and beggerie in one base ranke doe go . " A chamberlen , a steward and a caiter , A secretarie , a caruer , and a waiter , Thy Lord must haue to beautifie his daies , When thine age can supply not one of these . Then maist thou thinke that thou art highly loued , Iffrom his seruice thou art not remoued : T is well for thee if thou canst find that grace , To liue as thou hast done still in one place . A liuery once a yeare , and nobles foure , Is a braue price for seruing til foure score : And then t is ten to one that beg thou must , Therefore vnto thy selfe , not others trust . How rightly spake that honest Mulitar , When comming into Rome from regions farre , He in the euening heard as he did passe , That his owne Lord for Pope elected was . Ah ( quoth the slaue ) to speake vnpartiall , T was best with me when he was Cardinall , My labour then was little or else none , Hauing but two poore moiles to looke vpon . Now shall my toile be double or else more , And yet my wages paid worse then before . If any think because my Lord is Pope , That I on great aduancements ground my hope , Let him but giue me one chicken or lesse , And all my rasures he shall full possesse . No no , the wealthier that the Master proues , So much the lesse his oldest slaues he loues . In Naples where Nobility doth flowe , The Tale . ( Though little wealth doth with their greatnes goe ) There was of good descent a prettie Lad , That from his tender yeares still followed had A Lordly caualier , who promisd him ( As courtiers breath●… can smoothly speak & trim ) That he no sooner should aduanced be , To any place of worth or dignitie , But that his page should rise as he did mount . And for the youth had spent the first account Of his liues glory , sith since he presumed Vpon this hope full thirtie yeares consumed . His Lord now bids him be of merrie cheare , For nothing that he held should be too deare . The honest seruant thinking all was gold Shind in such words , him●… content doth hold . Now whilst the hungry master and the man , Gazd to behold which way preferments ranne ; It hapt the Naples king ( through some request ) Him of his priuie chamber did muest . No sooner was he in his wisht for roome , But he forgot his auntient tru●…ty groome , And prided with his fate now entertaines , New gallants with braue cloathes and better m●…anes . His old true page was in obliuion throwne , And nought saue noueltie was to him knowne . Which he perceiuing , taking time and place , Vnto his Lord he breakes his heauy case , Humbly intreats him that he would remember His honest seruice , and some merit render To his expence of time , and wasted store , As he with earnestnesse had vowd before . To whom the surly Neop●…stan , Taking him sharply vp , thus briefe began : Fellow , the world is chang'd from that it was , When I was scarce my self , them thou mightst passe And ranke with my dependants : but as now Thou canst not do it , nor may I allow Thy basenes so high place , s●…h it is fit , My men be of more meanes , more doome & wit . Yet nerethelesse since thou hast seru'd me long , And that I will not do thy labours wrong . Countnance , but no reward thou shalt possesse , Sith thou art old , and euen seruicelesse . The honest man being gald thus impiously , Returnes his Lord ( with griefe ) this short reply . Could I your best imploiments serue before , When ( saue my selfe ) you kept no creature more ? And now that you haue many , may not I My place with as great diligence supply ? Hath all my practise and experience Brought me no wit , but tane away my senfe . Now when my paines expected their aduance , Must my reward be nought but countenance ? Haue I consum'd my liues best floures with you , My youth and manhood , to reap this poore due ? But you le abandon me I do perceiue . Well , me you shall not , for t is you i le leaue . Nor you , nor others , nor no time shall say , You me dischargd . Loe I put you away . No greater plague can hang on seruitude , " Then to be chaind , to base ingratitude . And here withal away poore soule he went , Mourning his seruice , and his time misspent . By this true story wit may plainely see , What seruants are , and what these Courtiers be . " Youth spent in Court , oft brings age to poore state " Past seruice , past reward , that 's seruants fate . I rather would be king of mine owne graue , Then vnto greatest greatnesse be a slaue . " To liue of others lendings is most base , " In Court to daunce attendance is disgrace . I like not prison musicke , nor such mirth , Free was I borne , free will I liue on earth . " He is truely rich that hath sufficient , " And hating enuy liueth with content . Yet libertie exceedes the gaine of wealth , And therefore I will onely serue my selfe .

The third Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

In this Satyre ( as in the other before ) hee condemneth the seruice of the Popes Court , grieueth that the promises made vnto him by Leo ( the tenth of that name ) were not performed : sheweth the discontentments that arise by gathering together of riches . And la●…ly enueigheth against the couetousue and wicked lines of the Roman Courtiers .

SInce ( a a This Hanibal Mallaguzo was a noble man of Regio , a City in Lumbardy , belonging vnto the Dukedome of F●…rara , and kinsman vnto Ariosto , whose mother was of that house . noble Hanibal ) thou wil'st me write , Written to the Lord Hanibal . M. b After the death of Cardinall Hypolito , Alphonso Duke of Fera●…a , allured Ariosto by all the meanes he could , vnto his court , vsing him more like a companion then a seruant , offring him diuers offices of preferme●… to allure him to serue in ordinarie , which with much ado he was content to do , & which he did rather for his countries sake , & by reason of the loue he bare vnto the place where he was borne , then for any great gaine he got by following of him , as he himselfe setteth downe in his Satyre . How I of Duke Alphonsos seruice like : Or whether hauing laid old burthens by , New waights presse on my back as heauily : Or if they lighter be , for I do know , If you shall heare creations of new woe , Proceed from my complaints , you will conceiue , That I am barbarous , and vnto me cleaue Vlcers which will not heale , or like a iade , That I am dull , though nere so much of made ) Then to speake freely with infranchis'd mind , c c Meaning that hee is discontented as much with following the Duke as he was with belonging vnto the Cardinall his first Lord & master Both of my burthens , I like heauy find , And thinke I had bin blest , if vnto neither I had beene subiect , sith I lose by either . Say then ( since I haue broke my backe with all , Like a good Asse , that s laden till he fall ) Say that my spirits heauy dull and ill , Say both in iest and earnest what you will : Yet when you haue said what you list or can , I will speake truth , and be an honest man . But had I plaid the paricide or slaue , And brought my father to an early graue , d d Regio is a City ( as I said before ) subiect vnto Ferara , it was first built by Marcus Lepi●…us one of the Triumuerats of Rome . In wealthy REgio , or but that haue thought , Which Iupiter against great Saturne wrought : Onely that I alone within my hand , Might hold his wealth , his liuing and his land : Which now mongst brothers & mongst sisters be Diuided into ten parts equally : I nere had plaid the foole as did the frog , That for the Stork , did change his kingly clog : Nor had I wandred to seeke forth my fate , Or crept for fauour to each great estate . I had not learnt the Apes duck with my head , Nor crooked cringging curtsie should me stead . But since I was not borne heire to my sire , Nor that his lands fell vnto me entire . e e Meaning he was but poore , considering the great charge he had , for the Astronomers hold opinion , that he which is borne vnder that ●…aner , shall be very rich and wealthy . Since I perceiue that subtill Mercury , Was neare my friend , but rather enemie : And that ( against my will ) I am nereth'lesse Compeld to liue on others bounteousnesse : I thinke it better , that I do retaine Vnto the Duke , and be of his great traine : Then to a lower fortune make my moane Although my meanes and risings are all one , Hardly so much , as his who is most poore , And askes the misers almes from dore to dore . Few I do know are of my thoughts or mind And fewer of mine humours I do find . Most thinke to be a Courtier is most braue , I say a Courtier is a glorious slaue . Let such be Courtiers , as by Courts can rise , To me they are bright suns , and blind mine eies , Farre wil I liue aloofe from these great fires , " If strength of fortune strengthen my desires . " Neuer one saddle one each horse we place , " Nor doth one garment euery body grace . Beasts are not for one vse ingenerall , " For some we see beare much , some nought at all . The cage is to the Nightinglale a hell , The Thrush and Black-bird both do loue it well The Robin red-brest rob'd of libertie , Growes sad and dies with inward melancholy . Who seekes to be a Cardinall or Knight , And that great honours on his house may light , Let him go serue the Pope or some great King , Whil'st I liue safe , and hunt no such vaine thing . I am as well contented with the meat , Which ( though but grosse ) in mine own house I eate : And thinke a carrot root doth tast as well , Which doth of vineger or pepper smell : As if of foule or fish , or other bables , I had euen glewd my selfe to graet mens tables . And I as well can rest my drowsie head , Vpon a quilke , as on a downie bed : And vnder rugs , as much safe quiet hold , As vnder Turkie workes , Arras or gold . Rather had I at home stay with my rest , Saue my poore skin from scars , & know me blest , Then vaunt that I had seene the India land , Or frozen Scythia , or the Aethiop strand . So many men , so many mindes we say , Each one delighting in his seuerall way , Some will religious be , some marshall bent , Some trauell , some at home liue with content , Yet he that s pleas'd to be a traueller , Let him behold each country far and neere : Rich Fraunce , sweet England , fruitfull Germany , Proud Spain , Greece spoild with Turkish tirany . As for my selfe , at home ●…le liue alone , And like no country better then mine owne . Yet haue I seene how Lumbardy doth stand , And all Romania , and the Tuscan land . Besides , that mountaine mightie huge & tall , Which locks vp Italy as in a wall , And both those Oceans beating on each side , I haue beheld , and yet no danger tride . And this contents me well , for other cost , Or greater trauels whence mine ease is lost . I can with Ptolomie behold them all , In euery sort , vnile or seuerall . All seas I likewise can behold and see , ( Without vow making in extremitie , When heauen threats , with speaking thunder claps ) More safely in our moderne painted maps , Then when I shall a rotten vessell enter , And my poore life to certaine danger venter , The Dukes seruice , I take it as it is , Which if 't be good , t is better much by this . In that he seldome from his Court doth part , And so is friend to study and to art . Nor doth he seeke to draw me from that place , Where my lodg'd heart doth liue in its best grace But now me thinkes I see you all this while , How at my words and reasons you do smile . Saying , that it is neither countries loue Nor study , which incites me not to moue . But t is my Mrs. eye that onely blinds me , And in these euerlasting loue-knots binds me . Well , I confesse the truth , t is so indeed , ( And then confession , better proofes not need ) T is most true , I list not to contend , Or any falshood with my sword defend , What ere the reason be , I stirre not out , Or like a pilgrime walke the world about . It is sufficient that it doth me please , Nor would I other haue themselues disease About mine actions , since my selfe knowes best , Why I do heere with homely quiet rest . Some will obiect , and in their wisedom say , That if to Rome I had kept on my way : And aim'd at Church promotions , I might then Haue farre exceeded many other men : So much the rather , as I was approued , f f This was Le●… the 〈◊〉 a Horentine born of the house of Medices , and was of familiar acquaintance with Ariosto . To loue the Pope , and was of him beloued : As hauing of his first acquaintance beene , Long ere he had his daies of glory seene : Which came to him for vertue , or through chance And therefore reason he should me aduance . Yea long before the Florentines set ope , Their gates to entertaine him , or that hope . g g Iulian di Me●…dices , and Peter were breth●…en to Pope Leo the 10. who made the for●…aid Iulian Duke of Nemours , & maried him to the Lady Philibert of Sauoy , aunt to Francis the French King , the first of that name . This man before his brother was Pope , being banished with the rest of thier family , out of Flor●…ce were entertained with great kindnes by Francesco Maria , duke of Vebin , who in their exile did them al the honors that might be , notwithstanding al which curtesies , Leo coning to be Pope most vnki●…dly draue the aforsaid duke out of his country at the perswasions of Alphonsina , mother to his Nephew Laurence , on whom he bestowed the dukedom , who did continue in the same vntil Adrian the 6. that succeeded Leo , expulsed him , & restored Prācesco Maria the true owner to the estate again , who enioyed it vntil he died , being the space of 〈◊〉 yeares , in so great reputation , that all the Princes of Italy both loued & honored him to many of which he was entertained as General in their wars , but he was so great a builder , & so liberal to his Souldiers , that when he died he left no money behind him . Moued worthy Iulian his ennobled brother , In Vrbins Court , his losses to recouer . h h ●…embo was borne in a Castel in Lumbardy , called Arralano , he was an excellent Poet & Orator , he was Secretary to Pope Leo the 10. and at last was created Cardinal , he died in Pad●…a , his monument being in S. Francisses Church , in the City where hee lieth buried by Castilian , he meaneth Count Balthasar Castilian who made that excellent peece of worke called the Courtier . Where with learnd Bembo , and Castilian sage , Apollos haire , flowers of that formall age , He spent the daies of his first banishment , In great delight of thought and hearts content . And after when this subtill Medicy Ouer their Country vs●… his tirany . i i The Medicy hauing gotten the Emperours army , ( who then was in Italy ) to repose them in Florence , and to cal them home into their City againe , diuers of the Citizens were against it , especially Peter S●…derine , who wa●… then Gon●…er , which ( was the chiefe officer of that City ) but in the end they were inforced to admit them , and the aforesaide Peter glad to leaue his authority , and hardly escaped with life from out the palace , at what time . ( not long after ) what by faire meanes of Leo the tenth their kinsman , and afterwards by fauour of Charles the fift . they seazed vpon the whole estate , and after got to be absolute Princes thereof , as at this day they are . When the Gonfalconer forsooke the Court , Leauing his place , his honours and his port , Till Leo vnto Rome did make repaire , And was installed in St. Peters chaire . In all which time , to none he shewd such grace As vnto me , whom he did euer place Next to himselfe , affir●…ing I and none Was else his friend and best companion : So that in ranke of fauour , I alone , Stood still vnseconded of any one . B●…sides , when he as Legat first did passe To Florence , this his protestation was : That I as deerely in his fauour stood , As did his brother , or his best of blood . These circumstances well considered , And euery fauour rightly ordered , Though some of little value wil esteeme them , Yet others of more better price may deeme them . And thinke if I would daine to Rome to goe , And to his holinesse my fortunes shoe : Doubtlesse I might obtaine for recompence , Any faire suit of worthy consequence . And that at my first motion or request , A Bishopricke were granted at the least . But they which think , such great things so soone got , With iudgement nor with knowledge reckon not . And therefore with a pretty history , I will to such men giue a short reply : Which hath in writing put me to more paine , Then any man in reading shall attaine . Long since , there was a scortch Sommer seene , A tale . Which burnt the parcht earth with his beames so keene : That it was thought Phoebus once more had giuen His Chariot to his bastard to be driuen . For euery plant and hearb was dead and dride , Nor any greenes on the ground was spide . No fountaine , spring nor poole , or low or hie , But had his veines stopt vp and now stood drie : So that through riuers , chanels and great lakes , Men their long iourneies safely dry-shod takes . In this hot time a wealthy swaine did liue , ( Or ra●…her stile of poore I may him giue ) Who had great store of cattell and of sheepe , But wanted moisture them aliue to keepe , Who hauing long searcht euery hopeful ground . ( Although in vaine ) where moisture migh be found : He now inuokes that God omnipotent . ( Whose eares on faithful orizons are bent ) And he by inspiration in a dreame , Grants ease vnto his griefes that were extreame : Telling him that not farre from that dry land Within a certaine valley nere at hand , He should such store of wholsome water finde , As should giue ease and comfort to his minde . The swaine at this , takes children and his wife , And all his wealth ( the second to his life ) Leaues neither slaue , nor houshold stuffe behind , But hasts the blessed vallies help to find ; Where he no sooner came , but in the ground He causd to dig , and water did abound . But now he wants wherewith to take it vp , And therefore is inforc't to vse a cup , A little cup , whose little quantitie , Hardly did serue one draught sufficiently . Which as he held , he said , now my hot thirst I le coole , sith it is reason I be first . The next draught doth vnto my wife belong , Next to my children ( if I doe not wrong : ) When they haue done , my seruants shall begin , Each as his merit and desert doth winne . And as they haue bestird themselues with paine , To make this well , from whence this good we gaine . This said , he then vpon his cattel thought , The best whereof , he meanes shal take first draught : And those which leanest were should be the last , He thus his damage and his profit cast ) When euery thing was ordred in this fashion , He tasts the water first and cooles his passion , Next him his wife , his children followed than , ( As he had made the lawe ) man after man . Now euery one fearing the waters losse , Began to presse about him , and to crosse . His fellowes merit where most worth was cast , All would be first , none willingly the last . When this a little parret had suruaid , With whom this wealthy shepheard often plaid , And had in times past made it all his joy , Taking delight onely with it to toy . And when it wel had vnderstood their strife , It clamord forth , ah woe is my poore life . I nor his sonne , nor of his seruants am , Nor for to dig this well I hither came : Nor can I either profit to him bring , Then foolish mirth , and idle wantoning . And therefore must be quite forgot of all , And made the last on whom last lot must fall . My thirst is great as theirs , my death as ni●… , Vnlesse I can to better safetie flie , Therefore I must elsewhere seekemy releefe , And so away he flies with all his greefe . My Lord I doe beseech you , with this storie , Pack from your eares , those fooles that fr●… vaine glory . Thinke that his holinesse wil me raise before , k k These are noble families in Florence , which were great friends to the Medices . The Neri , Vanni , Lotti , and some more . His bastards , Nephewes , kinne and other such , Shall quench their thirsts ere I the water touch . Nay there shall step betwixt me and my hope , All those whose helping hands did make him Pope . When these haue drunk , their steps forth to be serued , Whole bands of martialists halfe pinde and sterued . That gainst stout Sodernie did weapons beare , Making his passage into Florence cleare . l l The country of Cassentine amidst the which ●…eth the riuer Arno , it is a territory narrowe , barraine and full of hils seated at the foote of the Appenine mountaines , of which Bib●…na is the cheefe towne , this the Medici went about to surprise when they were Banditi & banished from their country , but beeing repulst by the Florentines army , which then kept them out , they escaped from ●…hence not without great danger of losing their liues . The cheefe captaine of this company , was this Peter brother to Pope Leo , who afterward was most vnfortunately drowned as he was going towards Cai●…a not farre from Naples , He was elder brother to Pope Le●… and Iulian di Medices , which three were sonnes to that famous Laurence di Medices , of whom Guychardine in the beginning of his historie maketh most honourable mention of , Cosimo the great being their great grandfather , who was a citizen of fingular wisedome and of infinite wealth . One boasts that he in Casentino was With Peter , when he scarce from thence could passe m m Brandine is the surname of a rich fam●…lie in Florence , whose cheefe wealth consisteth in money , and who lent great store of coine vnto the Medices when they were in want . With his lifes saftie whilst Brandino cries , I lent the money which his honors buies . An other doth aproue , t' was onely hee Maintaind his brother with a yearely fee : And at his proper charges did prouide , Both horse and armour , and what else beside . Now if whilst these drinke I stand gazing by , Either of force the well must be drawnedrie : Or else my thirst my bodies health must slay , Sith stil such violence brookes no delay . Well , t is much better to liue as I do , Then to aproue if this be true or no. Or whether fortunes fooles which waite vpon her , Doe drinke of Lethe when they rise to honour . Which though it be most true that fewe do climbe , But they forget the daies of former time , Yet can I hardly say his holinesse , Hath drunke much water of forgetfulnesse . No I may well protest the contrary , Since I did find that in his memory . I held my place , and when his foote I kist , He with a smiling countnance prest my wrist , Bowd downe his fore-head from his holy chaire , And gaue me words of grace , and speeches faire , He gently stroakt my cheekes and did me blisse , And on them both bestowd a sacred kisse . n n Ariosto sheweth himselfe to be of a good nature , which tooke so thankfully so small a reward , considering how much he had deserued at the Medices hands . Besides he did bestowe that Bull on me , Which Bibie●… after seriously Dispacht , and got , although I yet did pay Some bribes before I was dismist away : But being done , and I ioyd therewithall , ( All wet through raine & stormes which them did fall . Vnto Montano fast I rode that night , Where I reposd with merry hart and light . Thus curteous words and speeches I had many , But other fauours I possest not any . But say t were true the Pope should keep his word And to me all his promises afford , That I might reape the fruits which I did sow , Both now and elsewhere many yeares agoe : Imagine with more Miters and read hats He would adorne me , and with greater stats , Then euer at the Popes great solemne masse , Hath or beene seene or euer giuen was . Nay say he fild vp all my bags with gold , And cramd my chests as ful as they could hold : Shall yet th' ambition of my greedy minde , Enough contentments for her humors finde ? Or shall this quench my thirsts consuming fire ? Or wil my thoughts take truce with her desire ? No ; I from Barb'rie to Catay wil goe , From Dacia , where seuen headed Nile doth flow : Not Rome alone must hold my soueraign●…y , So of my affections I might master be ; And so I might haue power and both be able , To tame my thoughts , and hopes vnsatiable . But when I shall a Cardinall be instald , Or what is more , seruant of seruants cald , Nay when I shall aboue the Pope be spi'd , And yet my minde rest still vnsatisfi'd . To what end then should I so much disease me , Or toile my selfe for that which wil not please me ? T is better priuatly to liue , then thus To vex and greeue for titles friuolous . I speake not this as though my selfe were he , Whose nature could with no content agree : But to this end , that sith all greatnes euer , Doth in this endlesse Auarice perseuer , ( Who though they all possesse , yet more doe craue . As if they would imploy them in the graue . ) I thinke its better liue a priuate life , Then wealth to hold with vnabated strife . Then when this world was in her infancy , A tale . And men knew neither sin nor trecherie ; When cheators did not vse to liue by wit , Nor flattery could each great mans humour fit , A certaine nation ( which I knew not well ) Did at the foot of an high mountaine dwell , Whose top the heauens counsailes sent to know , ( As it apear'd to them that liu'd below ) These men obseruing how the moone did rise , And keep her monthly progresse through the skies : And yet how with her horned forehead she Alterd her shape , her face and quantitie , They straight imagin'd if they were so hie , As the hils top , they easly migh espie , And come where she did dwell to see most plaine , How she grew in the full , how in the waine . Resolu'd thereon , they mount the hill right soone , With bask●…ts and with sackes to catch the moone , Striuing who first vnto the top should rise , And make himselfe the master of the prize , But mounted vp , and seeing that they were As farre off as before , and neere the neare , Wearie and feeble on the ground they fall , Wishing ( though wishes are no help at all ) That they had in the humble valley staid , And not like fooles themselues so much dismaid . Th●…rest of them which did remaine belowe , Thinking the others which so high did show , Had toucht the Moone , came running after then By troopes and flocks , by twenties and by tenne : But when the senselesse misconceit they found , Like to the rest they wearie fell to ground . This loftie mountaine is the Wheele of fate , Vpon whose top sits roializd in state , ( As ignorance and follie doth suppose ) All quietnesse , al peace , and sweete repose . But they ( alasse ) doe all mistake the ground , For there nor ioy is , nor contentment found . Now if with riches or with honours went ( Like louing twins ) the minds desird content : Then had I reason to commend that wit , Which were emploid and spent to purchase it . But when I see both Popes and mightie Kings , ( Who for the soueraignes are of earthly things , As gods within this world esteemed are ) That they of griefes and troubles haue their share , I needes must say , content they doe not hold , As long as they haue sorrowes manifold . Should I in wealth the mightie Turke ou●…oe , Or boast more glories then the Pope doth know , And yet still couet higher to aspire , I am but poore , through that my more desire . Well t is most reason and our best best wit , To liue of things are competent and fit , Whereby wee may not pine away with want , Nor of our needfulst needements to be scant . For euerie one all strength of reasons haue , To nourish life , and not liue as a slaue : But if a man be so sufficient rich , That hee too little hath not , nor too much , That hath enough his nature to content , And in desire is not ore vehement : He that can ease his hunger at his pleasure , And giue each appetite his equall measure : He that hath fire to warme him when hee s cold , A house to shelter him when he is old : That when he should ride forth is not compeld , To lackey spaniel-like through euery field , But to command a horse is alwaies able , And keepes a man to waite vpon his table . Besides a cleanely houswife that will keepe His house in comely order neate and sweete : If this I haue , what neede I more request ? For hauing thus much , I haue all the rest . Enough is neuer then aboundance lesse , He that all couets , nothing doth possesse . Besides this duetie , reason doth demand , That on strict tearmes of honor we doe stand , Yet in such sort that we be neuer found , T' exceede the golden meane in any bound ; For nothing is on earth more dangerous , Then to be noted as ambitious . This is true honour when the world doth cry Thou art an honest man and so dost die : Which if thou beest not , it will soone be knowne , And as thy faults are so thy fame is blowne . Hypocrisie is wouen of fine thrid , Yet fewe in these daies can in nets be hid . Because each one right reuerend doth thee call , Or Earle or Baron , Knight or Generall , I would not haue thee thinke they honor thee , Vnlesse more in thy selfe then titles bee . But when I see thy merits worth doth moue From vertue , then thou shalt enioy my loue . What glory is t to thee when I behold , How thou apparel'd art in silkes and gold ? Or that the wondring people with amaze , As vp and downe thou walkest , vpon thee gaze ? If afterward , assoone as thou art gone , And thy backe turn'd , they sing this hatefull song . See there the man who for a bribe in gold , The gates of Rome vnto the French-men sold : Which gates to keep , he had of speciall trust , Yet sold the same , an art base and vniust . Fie , fie , how many knight-hoods here are bought , How many Bishoprickes desertlesse caught ? Which after being knowne abroad become , The foule disgrace and scandall vnto Rome . To be an honest man in word and deed , Though on my backe I weare a course plaine weed , As much doth please me as if I did go , Royally clad in roabes which kingly shoe . Let him that will or gold or veluet buy , For I will not with spots of infamy . o o Vnder this name he taxeth some notorious & wicked man that grew rich through villanie . But now me thinkes base Bomba doth reply , And vnto mine assertions giues the lie : Saying , let me haue riches , I not care , Or how they come , or how they purchast are : Come they by villany , by drabs or dice , Riches are euer of most worthy price . Vertue is riches bastard , nor do I Respect , against me what the vulgar cry . " All men of no man speaketh reuerently , " And some haue raild against the deity . Husht Bomba husht , do not flie all so fast , But flag thy wanton peacocks traine at last , I tell thee none blaspheme the deity , But such as are more dam'd in villany , Then those who naild their maker to the Crosse , Whose woes eternally do mourne their losse : Meane space the good and honest sort one word , Will not of goodnesse to thy fame afford . They say false cards , false dice , and falser queanes , Purchast thy liuings and thy large demeanes . And thou administrest to euery tongue , Matter to talke of , as thou walk'st along : Wearing and tearing out more cloth of gold , More silkes and Tissus from Arabia sold , Then all the worthy gallants Rome doth breed , So much thy pride and riot doth exceed . Those thefts and cosenages thou shouldst conceale , Vnto the world and me thou dost reueale . Making euen fooles and sillie Infants know , That cottages where hardly thatch did grow , Thou in these few yeares palaces hast made , By thy smooth cheating and thy cosening trade : The world doth see thy banquets and thy feast , Where in thou surfet'st like an ore fed beast . Yet thou conceiu'st that thou a gallant art , And all that smile on thee do take thy part . Foole , those same smiles are like the serpents hisle , And they would kill thee faine which doe thee kisse . p p This is also a shadowed name , whereby hee biteth at some others of as bad faults as may be . Bor●…o ( so no man tell him to his face , How vile he is ) beleeues it no disgrace : Although behind his backe he heare men cry , He hath nor faith , nor loue nor piety : And how that worse then bloudy-handed Caine , He his owne brother tyrant-like hath slaine : Although an exiles life he hath indured , Yet all agree'd , all euils now are cured : And he the whole inheritance hath got , Without vexation of a partners lot . Therefore let all men say what all men can , Hee●…e walke the streets ( sith rich ) an honest man . Another that 's as vile as is the best , Tiers out his daies with labour and vnrest : Till he haue got a Miter in such fashion , As shames himselfe , his kinne and all his nation : When he no worthier is to beare the load , Then a base asse is of a Purple roab . But knew the world how to this height he came The very stinke would poyson them with shame . O times corrupt , O manners worse then nought , Where nothing but what s vile is sold and bought ! Too true it is , which all the world hath told , All things at Rome , euen heauen for coine is sold. William surnamed Rufus , when in hand , A ta●…e . He swaid the English Scepter at command , It chanc't a wealthy Abby void did fall , Whose great demeanes being rich in general , Many came to the king the same to buy , ( For he did mony loue exceedingly ) Now when Church chapmen al were com'd vnto him And with their vtmost sums did amply woe him , He spide a Monke stood halfe behind the dore , Whom straight he cald , and bade him come before : Imagining he came as did the rest , With full fild bags , to make his offer best , And therefore thus the king most gratiously Speakes to the Monke ; Tell me man willingly , What thou wilt giue ; great the reuenues are , And thou free leaue to offer for thy share . My gratious Lord ( the old man did reply ) I came not hither this rich place to buy : For I am poore : or had I wealth at will , I would not load my conscience with such ill : As to ingrosse Church liuings aboue other , Making me rich by robbing of my brother . Besides , I were an asse to vndertake , To lay too great a burthen on my backe : Which to support , I know I am vnfit , Both for my learning , industry and wit . Onely I hither came in humble wise , To beg of him which to this place should rise , That I this pe●…ty fauour might but haue , To be his Priest , his beads-man or his slaue . The King who heard this old man gratiously , And finding in him true humilitie , Whence his rare vertues sprang so curioufly , That they exceld his ranke in dignity : Freely and frankly without recompence , Gaue him this Abbey and dispatcht him thence . Saying he it deseru'd most worthily , Sith he so wel could brooke his pouertie . Neither such gift nor King I ere shall know , Yet such a mind and thoughts within me grow . I haue a mind which harbours calme content , Voide of all lucre , and from malice bent . And would I fish for liuings , there s no doubt , But I shold easily bring my wish about . q q Ari●…o was somewhat variable in his desires and a litle humourous withall , and therefore would hardly be bound or tied to any thing longer then himselfe listed . " But home is homely , I am best at ease , " When I haue none but mine owne selfe to please . " Riches are still the children of much care , " Who couets nothing , onely rich men are . " Great is the labour which doth purchase gaine , " Greater the sorrow which doth it maintain●… . " But once to lose it , euen death doth bring : I le no such bees which haue so sharp a sting . Sufficient for my selfe is my small store , And greatest monarches do enioy no more .

The fourth Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

He sheweth that it is good and necessary to marry , and yet by the way glaunceth merily at that state of life , shewing how hard a matter it is for a man to keep his wife honest and chast .

I Heare a a Ariosto being not giuen to mary , his kinsman the Lord Hanibal was loth to make him priuy to his wedding ; which hee taketh very vnkindly in this Satyre . by strangers , friends the world and all , Written to the Lord Hanibal Malaguzzo . ( Except thy selfe , thrice noble Hanibal ) That thou art now about to take a wife , Knitting these worlds cares to a better life . I not mislike that so your fancie stands , Onely I take vnkindly at your hands , That vnto me you would not tell your mind , Since in my counsailes you might comfort find . Perhaps thou hast conceald it , from this feare , Lest I should hap t' oppose what thou holdst deare , Thinking because my selfe vnmarried am , Therefore I marriage wil in others blame . If so thou censur'st me , thou dost me wrong : For though I neuer knew what did belong , To wedlocke : yet I neuer haue withstood , Those which choose mariage as their chiefest good , b b He excuseth himself in that he liued a batchellor so long , which hee saith was his hard fortune , and not his fault : although there is no doubt , but if hee had listed , hee might h●… matched very well , and euery way to his contentment . Oft haue I grieu'd , and yet I sadly mourne , That then to marry , I haue chose to burne . My selfe excusing that I still was crost , By hand of Fate , and so my fortunes lost : For though vnto it I was fully bent , Occasion still my meaning did preuent . But this hath euer mine opinon beene , Nor euer shal there change in me be seene : That men cannot in perfect goodnesse stand , Vnlesse he liue within the mariage band . Nor without women can liue free from sinne , For he which thrusts such guests out of his Inne , Is either forc't to borrow of another , Or theese-like without conscience robs his brother . c c Hee could giue good counsaile himselfe , but could not follow it , as Medea saith in 〈◊〉 . — Video me●…ra proboque deteri●…ra sequer — Besides , who vnto stranger sheets doth cleaue , Turnes Cormorant , and temperance doth leaue . For if to day he seed on larke or quaile , Next morne , hee le haue the Pnesant or the Raile . And which is worst , he looseth sense of loue , And that sweet touch which charity should moue . d d He enueigheth against some Priests , who liued too much incontinently . Hence comes it , priests of all men are the worst , Biting like dogs with madnesse made accurst . The whilest no common Palliard , baud nor slaue , Carries more viler surfets to his graue . Borrow of all they doe , but none they pay , Base are their deedes , how well so ere they say . Againe , in publike cariage and in shoe , They are so void of iudgement , and do goe So farre from vertue , that I wonder much , Women will daine but to be toucht by such . You know t is true , who do in Regio dwell , But that all truths , for feare you dare not tell . Bug-beare confession whispering in your eare , I●…is damnation to tell all you heare . Well , though you nothing say , yet from your eies , I read the depth of all these mysteries , e e Modena is a City in Lumbardy , subiect vnto the Dukedome of Ferara ( now the Popes ) where the Church-men bare them selues ouer licentiously and more vnc●… then becomeed them . In this town Sadolet●… and Molza , two learned Italians of their time were borne . Ofstubborne Modena I speake nought at all , Who though this great plague did vpon it fall , Yet it deserueth to be punisht worse , May on her and her priests light heauens curse . But now to you . Elect betimes your mate , Better too soone to marry then too late . And since perforce thou needes this life wilt try , Aduenter on it most couragiously . f f A famous Physi●…on of Ferara , who married not til he was all 80. yeares old , & then ( doating ) tooke a maruellous faire maid vnto his wife , and presently after died . Do not as did doctor B●…on Leo old , Who tooke a wife when all his bloud was cold : When age had made him for a graue more fit , Then or for wife or youthfull appetit . Defer not thou till age come creeping on , Lest strength consum'd , thy body suffer wrong . " Old ages Herbingers and snow-white haires , " Warme drinks & cloathes are good for many yeares : A cup of wine in withred Hermons head , Is better then a faire maid in his bed : Age with such liquors often is well eas'd , Venus with gouts and palsies is not pleas'd . Faire Hym●… is not painted old , But youthfull , fresh , with saffron haire like gold : The old man feeling but some sparkes of fire , Which with much labour doth but warme desire , Begins to rouse his Icie spirits vp , As if he had caroust on Aesons cup : Much he imagins he can do , when loe , Strength doth forsake him , ere his strength he know : And he poore soule euen in his height of pride , Is conquer'd ere th' encounter he haue tride . Yet so he must not thinke his wife will yield , Her better spirit better ioyes the field . " Fire with water , neuer will agree , " Nor nature will not loose her soueraigntie . But say it were not so ; yet in these daies , The world being rather giuen to dispraise , Then to speake well of any , who are they , Will marry Winter vnto youthfull May ? But they will wish Saint Lukes badge on his head , And that in horne-bookes he be deeply read . And thus although they merit not this blame , Yet can they not escape all poisoning fame , Who for the most part doth of falshoods prate , But be it false or true t is then too late To call i●… home againe , if once the vent , About the bussing busie world be sent : And who his honour or good name doth loue , Must patient be for he this crosse must proue . Yet this bad p●…n nothing is at all , But that which we damn'd iealo●…sie do call : Although t is ill enough when we behold , An Infant whom the cr●…le doth infold : And two or three crope newly from the shell , Who in their clamours do their grieuance tell . Adde vnto these a pretty girle or twaine , Whom thou in vertues manners seek'st to traine : Yet hast not any whom thy soule can trust , Will honest be to them , or to thee iust . But rather will allure them by all meanes , To vitious liuing , and to shamelesse straines . Chuse wisely then , since thou dost know this curse , g g He findeth fault with diuers Gentlemen of Ferara , that were yonger brothers , who because their wealth was little , would not marry when they were young , & yet comming to be old , they made their choice worse , when getting their owne maides and drudges with child , they were after glad to marry them because the children which they had got by them should not be counted bastards . And like our Gentlemen be not found worse . Many of which buried in cloisters low , Lie hid , while'st grasse doth ore their graue stones grow , On marriage their minds did neuer set , Because they meant not children to beget , And so be forc't that little to disseauer , Which scarce would serue , when t was vnite together That which in strength of youth they did refuse , Now growne in yeares most shamefully they chuse , Shewing themselues to be so base of mind , That euen in Borish villages they find : And in the Kitchins greasie scullerie , With whom to sport themselues lasciuiously , Boyes are begot , which as in yeares they grow , Such abiect vile behauiours from them flow , That they are forc't to marry them perforce , Vnto Clownes daughters , or to creatures worse , Euen to crackt Chambermaids broke vp of late , Because they would not haue their sons in state Of bastardy , and here hence doth proceed , That noblest houses in Ferara bleed , With wounds of tainted honour and with shame , As all eies do behold which view the same . This is the cause the worthies of this towne , Are seldome seene to flourish in renowne Of vertue , or of valour , or of arts , And hence it is their auncestors best parts , I meane those of the worthy mothers side , Are of their generous qualities so wide . My Lord , to marry you do passing well , And yet attend these precepts I shall tell . First thinke thereof , lest when you would retire , You cannot , being slau'd vnto desire : h h This Poet giueth his friend better counsaile then hee himselfe could follow , for although he would neuer marry , yet is he noted to haue kept at his owne proper charges one Alexandra , a proper woman a long time , although his friend say that he was married vnto her priuily , and durst not bee knowne of it , for feare of loosing some s●…all spirituall liuings which he had , and which were not lawfull for any maried man to enjoy . In this important matter , most , most great , Although my counsaile you do not intreat . Yet I will shew you how a wife to chuse , And which mongst women wisemen should refuse : But you perhaps , will wondring smile at me , And place it with impossibility , That I this waighty charge should vndertake , Yet neuer knew what meant the married state . I pray you tell me ; hath not your Lordship seene , When as two gamsters haue at tables beene : The third man which ( as lookers on ) stood by , More to haue seene in play then they could spy : If you do find I shoot nere to the white , Follow my rules and hold my iudgment right : But if you see I roue far off and wide , Then both my counsailes and my selfe deride : And yet before I further doe proceede , T is meete , that first this caution I doe reede . If you to take a wife haue strong pretence , Yet build your ground on naught but lustfull sence , T were madnes to perswade you from her loue , Though reasons gainst her honor I could proue . If she doe please you , then she vertuous is , Nor any gift of goodnes can she misse : No Rhethorick , reason , nor no strength of wit , Can make thee loath when lust rules appetit : So much thou art besotted on her face , That reason must to pleasure yeeld her place . I for a wilfull blinde man am no guide , But if in lists of wisedome thou wilt bide , Then scholler-like examine what I say , And I shall merit thankes another day . Who so thou art that meanst a wife to take , ( If of thine honor thou account dost make ) Learne what her mother is , that step begin , And how her sisters liue , how free from sinne : If we in horses , kine , and such like creatures , Desire to know their lineall race and natures , What ought wee then to doe in these , who are Then other cattell , more deceitfull farre ? A Hare you neuer saw bring forth a Hart , Nor doe from Doues nests Eglats euer part . Euen so a mother that is infamous , Hardly can beare a daughter vertuous . From trotting races , amblers seldome breede , From selfe like natures , selfe like things proceede . Besides the branch is like vnto the tree , And children keepe what first they learned be . " Ill education spoileth maners good , " Corrupts best natures , and infects the blood . " Home-bred examples and domestick illes , Grafts errors in cleannest brests , & good thoughts kils . If she perceiues her mother to possesse , Many saire seruants she will haue no lesse : Nay she will more haue , or her better skill , Shall leaue to be the agent of her will : And this she doth to show in courtlinesse , That ( then her mother ) she is nothing lesse , And that heauen did with equall bountie place , Within them both one beautie and one grace , To know her nurse , and how her life she leades , What her commercements are , and how she treades : Whether her father brought her vp or no , If she can play the cooke , weaue , worke or sowe , i i Here Ariosto is a little malitious against the court for many gentlewoman , yea & those sort are as well brought vp , & as vertuously giuen , liuing in the court , as if they had all the daies of their youth beene trained & 〈◊〉 vp in their fathers owne houses , musique and a sweete voice , being two as commendable qualities as can adorne any Lady , only the libertie of courts to diseased minds , is the ground to these inuentions . Orifinidle courts she haue remaind , And there in song and musique hath beene traind . To iudge the better of her vertues this , And all the rest to know , most needefull is . Seeke not a wife whose stile and noblenesse Shall fill thy veines with much vaingloriousnes : Such oft their husbands vnto wrath prouoke , Whilst they to him are nothing else but smoke . T is good to match with one that s nobly borne , So she her husbands birth hold not in scorne . Such one take thou great Lord as fit shall be , Both for thy liuing and thy pedigre : For hardly thou thy better shalt content , Vnlesse on her dependance much be spent . A brace of pages , seruing gentlemen , And for her state a flock of gentlewomen , To keepe their Lady from all faults offence , Without the which there is no patience . Nor so content , a dwarse she needes must haue , A foole , a pandor , and a iesting knaue , With dogs and munkies , parrets and such toies , Whose idle seruice , idle time destroies : With other company for cards and dice , Whose wits can sort with courtiers that are nice ; Nor when she takes the aire , wil she forth tread , Without her rich caroche well furnished . But this last charge is nothing to that cost , Must on more priuate toies be vainly lost . Now if thou no such prodigall fond part , ( Who for of birth and liuing chiefe thou art Within thy natiue home ) shalt proue , then know , The poorer sort such glories dare not show . If hackneymen doe round about the towne , Run for to let their coach horse vp and downe , What then will he doe ? who at his command Hath of his owne , which euer ready stand ? If others two horse keepe , the rich will still Haue foure at least , yet thinke the draught but ill . With such an one thou shalt possesse more care , k k Meaning that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 wife will make a man 〈◊〉 Oriando became through the vn●…nes of Angelica . Then mine Or●…do in his madnes bare . l l Here the Poet setteth downe many excellent rules how a man should choose a wife , and hauing chosen one , how he should b●…haue himselfe towards her . If she shall braule with thee malitiously , Gouerne with patience her extremitie , And as Vlysses gainst the Sirens song , Made himselfe deafe to shelter him from wrong , So her expostulatings doe not heare , But gainst such clamarous noise glew vp thine eare . " When she speaks most do thou least speach afford , " For silence cuts a shrow worse then a sword . " A froward wife for very spight will cry , " When thy neglect doth scorne her tyrannie . Haue special care that with no foule-mouthd speach , Thou mak'st into her fury any breach : For then thou all confound'st , and one small showre , Will on thy head a world of newe stormes powre , Which with such bitterne●…e she will declare , That stings of wasps not halfe so noisome are . Let her as neare as 〈◊〉 or wit can finde , Agree with euery humor in thy minde , That ancient customes in thy house remaine . And that no danger lurke within her traine , In being greater then thou canst support , For things doe fall to ruine in that sort . I doe not like that beautie whose rare merit Will praise beyond all excellence inherite Nor such a one whose court audacitie , Beares her beyond all comely modestie . Twixt faire and foule there is a golden meane , Vnto which path I faine would haue you leane . A louing maide , not louely striue to chuse The faces beautie ; for the mindes refuse . Please thy best iudgement , t is no matter then , Though she seeme foule or black to other men . m m

The Italian hath a praire of such a wife .

Chi ha b●…anco canello , et bella moglie , Non 〈◊〉 mai senza doglie . Whose horse is white , and wife is faire , His head is neuer void of care . Her to possesse whose beautie doth exceede , Doth to all curious eies much sorrowe breede : For she euen frozen harts doth set on fire , Making them languish in vnchaste desire . A world will venture her faire forte to spoile , Wherein albe she giue some fewe the foile : Yet at the last comes one with bribes and praies , Who so in peeces all her forces teares , That at the last hauing no more delay , She yeelds , and he her honor beares away . A wife that s more then faire is like a stale , Or chanting whistle which brings birds to thrall . n n

He alludeth to the common saying in Italic .

Fa peccat●… nisieme col penitenza , Chi piglia bruta m●…glie a credenza . Who takes a woman foule vnto his wife , Doth penance euer , yet sinnes all his life . Yet of no sluttish foulenes fix thy minde , 〈◊〉 There s no ill qualitie so vile in a woman , as to be a foole , for I haue oft heard a wise man say , he had rather haue a willy wanton , a witty shrow , or a foule slut to his wife , then one that was so●… or foolish , affirming that the first if she did a fault would with discretion hide it . The second with her wit would now and then delight him . The third because of her deformitie , studie and indeuor alwaies to please him , but the last which was the foole , wold shame both her selfe , her husband and her friends . For so perpetuall penance thou shalt finde . Beauties which are indifferent most me moue , Faire which is still most faire I doe not loue . Pure of complexion let her be and good , And in her cheekes faire circled crimson blood . Hie coulors argue choler and distaste , And such hot blouds are seldome made to waste . Let her be milde and wittie , but not curst , Nor foolish , for of all breedes that s the worst . None so deformed are , or vgly foule , As fooles which more are gazd at then the Owle : For if she any fault abroad commit , Her long to●…gd gossip straight must know ofit : Nothing so pr●…ate can be done or said , Which through the whole world shall not bee conuaid . Thus she her husband and her selfe doth bring , To be a scorne to euery abiect thing : Where as the wittie wench so careful is , There 's none shall know albe she doe amisse . Like to the Cat who buries vnder ground Her ordure , le●…t by men it should be found . Let her be pleasing , full of curtesie , Lowly of minde , prides deadly enemie : Pleasant of speech , seldome sad or neuer , And let her countnance cheareful be for euer , A viniger tart looke or clowdy brow , Furroud with wrinckles I doe not allow , And so to pout or lowre through sullennesse , Is a strong signe of dogged peeuishnesse . Let her be bashfull and of modest grace , Heare , but not answere for thee , wherein place Thou art : for t is extreamest oblo quie , When she doth prate and thou must silent be , No idle huswife let her euer be , But alwaies doing some thing seriously . p p Sluttishnes in women was so much detested with the antient Romans , that one of the cheefe noble men of the citie put his wife f●…om him by diuorce , as if she had beene incontinent & vnchaste of her bodie , yea only for that fault . Let her well loued selfe , her selfe preserue , And from all goatish sents he skinne conserue . Women doe oft like golden tombes apeare , Worthy without when naught within is faire . Some ten or twelue yeares yonger then thou art , Elect thy wife , for that s a wise mans part : Because a womans glories euer faile , Long ere the mans strength doe begin to quaile , And so within thine eie wil breede dislike , Ere mutuall yeares thee in like weaknesse strike , Therefore I wish the husbands age should be Thirty at least , for then th' impaciency Of youthfull heate beginneth to asswage , And with more moderation rules his rage . Let her be such a one as feareth God , Lest she aproue the sting of heauens rod , Religious , not scrupulous , and boue all , Let her know none whom puritans we call : To run from Church to Church through all the towne , To weare a thin small ruffe , a bare black gowne , To faigne to speake like chickins when they peepe , Or leare like cats when they doe seeme to sleepe . To make long praiers and goggle vp their eies , As if their zeales would teare God from the skies . To chide if any thing we say is good , ( Excepting God ) as Prince or almes , or foode , Christmas to name but Christ tide , as it were Damnation , but the bare word masse to heare , To speake to none that walketh in the streete , Or with these words God saue you , any greete : Not to looke vp , but fix on earth the eie , Aparant signes are of hypocrisie . God pleased is with plainnesse of the hart , And not with dumb shoes of the outward part , Such as her life , such her religion is , Where arts and words agree not , als amisse . q q Many good gentlewomen especially old widowes are abused by counterfeit Priers in Italie , they making a shewe of more holinesse then the rest of their coat , when it is nothing els but meere knauerie and dissimulation . I would not that acquaintance she should haue , With a precission Fri●… for hee s a knaue , They vnder colour of confession frame , Mischiefe and many matrons doe defame , Nor shall she feast them with delitious fare , For they but counterfeits and cheaters are , To widowes , wiues and maids they doe remaine , Vild , as in haruest are great showers of raine . r r These be such women as the Poet speaketh of , Meruit formosa videri , that is , she deserued with the paines she tooke , to seem handsom●… though indeed she was not . Let her owne beautie be her owne delight , Without adulterate painting , read or white , Nature hath fixt best colours to the face , No art hath power to giue so sweete a grace . Great paines to little purpose and much shame , They spend , who to adorne their bodies frame , Doe profitlesse consume whole daies away , Let such a one not in thy fauour stay . A golden time , a glorious world it was , When women had no other looking glasse Then the cleere fountaine , and no painting knew , But what they from the simple sleikstone drewe . Complexion now in euery place is sold , And plaister wise daubd vpon yong and old . Old iades must haue read bridles , and the hag , Will not in toies behind the yongest lag . s s An Italian gentleman , whose mistris face was like a painters table . Knew Herculan but where those lips of his , He layeth when his Lid●…a he doth kisse . He would disdaine and loath himselfe as much , As if the loathsom'st ordure he did touch . t t It is most true that the Iewes make the best colours , either Rosa or 〈◊〉 , as may be seene in Famag●…sta in Cyprus , and it is also credibly reported that they make it after this filthy maner as the Poet here setteth downe . He knowes not , did he know it he would spewe , That paintings made with 〈◊〉 of a Iewe , ( For they the best fell ) n●… that loathsome smell , ( Though mixt with muske and amber nere so well , Can they with all their cunning take away The fleame and snot so ranke in it doth stay . Little thinks he that with the filthy doung , Of their small circumcised infants young , The fat of hideous serpents , spaune of snakes , Which slaues from out their poisonous bodies takes . All which they doe preserue most curiously , And mix them in one bodie cunningly , Making that vnguent , which who buies to vse , Buies hell withall , and heauen doth refuse . Fie how my queasie stomack vp doth rise , To thinke with what grose stuffe in beastly wife , They make this hatefull vomit of the face , With which fond women seeke themselues to grace , Daubing their cheekes in darke holes with the same , Lest the daies eie should tell the world their shame : But knew men which doe kisse them , what I know , They would so farre in detestation grow , That ere they would touch maskes so foule as this , Mensis profluuium they would gladly kisse . Nay knew but women how they are abusd By these plague salues ( so generally vsd Of them ) and by those drugs where with they fill Their closets , cabinets and cofers still : They soone would finde their errours and confesse , T is they alone which makes them beautilesse . n n Although this doctrine be as true as true may be , yet will not many gen●…lewomen beleeue it , but hold it to bee meere heresie and no truth . This curious painting when they vndertake , True natures beautie doth the cheeke forsake : All that is excellent away is fled , Hating to liue with hell being heauen bred . Likewise those waters which they vse with care , To make the pearle teeth orient and more fare , Turnes them to rottennesse , or black like hell , Whilst from their breaths doth issue forth a smell , More noisome then the vilest iakes can yeeld , Or carion that corrupts within the field . Well , let thy wife to none of these sins cleaue , But to the Court these rarer cunnings leaue . The vertues that in women praise do win , Are sober shewes without , chast thoughts within : True faith and due obedience to their make , And of their children honest care to take . Let her apparell be in comely fashion , And not stragnized after euery nation . Head-tires in shape like to a corronet , With pearle , with stone , and Iewels richly set , Befits a Princesle right ; a veluet hood , With golden border , for thy wife 's as good . The Loome , the Needle and fine Cookery , Doth not disparage true gentility . Nor shall it be amisse , if when thou art , Within thy country home , thy wife impart , Her huswifely condition , and suruay , Her Dayrie and her milk-pans once a day . The greatest states in these daies will respect Their profits , when their honours they neglect . x x The bringing vp of children in good sort , is one of the chiefest parts which belongs to an honest wo●… as the Poet saith in his Orlando Furio●… But her cheese care shall on thy Children be , To bring them vp in each good quality . And thus , if such a wife thou canst attaine , I see no reason why thou shouldst refraine . For say that afterward her mind should change , And from corrupter thoughts desire to range : Or that she seckes to scandalize her house , With blacke disdaine , or shame most impious , When in her haruest yeares thou comst to mow , And findst where corne was , nought but weeds dohgrow : Yet thou thy selfe as faulty , ●…nst not blame , But spitefull Fate , the author of defame : And that her infancie was misgouerned , And not in vertue truly nurtered . Thou canst but sorry be for her offence , When want of grace doth draw on impudence . But he that like a blind man doth run on , And takes the first his fortunes fall vpon , Or he that worse doth ( as doth basest he ) Who though he know her most vnchast to be : Yet he will haue her in dispight of all , Euen though the world him hatefull Wittall call . If after sad repentance him importune , Let him accuse himselfe for his misfortune : Nor let him thinke any will moane his case , Since his owne folly bred his owne disgrace . But now since I haue taught thee how to get , Thy best of choice , and thee on horse-backe set . I le learne thee how to ride her : wild or tame , To curb her when , and when to raine the same : No sooner thou shalt take to thee a wife , But thou shalt leaue the old haunts of thy life , Keep thine owne nest , lest some strange bird lie hid , And do by thee as thou by others did . y y Good counsaile to all such yong men who haue long war●…d themselues by other mens fires . Like a true Turtle with thine owne doue stay , Else others t'wixt thy sheetes may falsly play . Esteeme her deare , and loue her as thy life , No matchlesse tr●…sure like a loyall wife . If thou wilt haue her like and honour thee , First let her thine affections amply see : What she doth for thee , kindly that respect , And shew how thy loue doth her loue affect . If by omission she do ought amisse , In any thing that gainst thy nature is : With loue and not with fury let her know , Her errours ground , for thence amendments grow . A gentle hand , A Colt doth sooner ●…ame Then chaines or fetters which do make him lame . Spaniels with stroking we doe gentle find , Sooner then when they coopled are or pinde . These kind of cattell gentler then the rest , Without the vse of rigor do the best . Good natures by good vsage best do proue , Disdaine breedes hate , t is loue ingenders loue , But that like asses they should beaten be , Neither with sense nor reason doth agree : For where loues art auailes not , there I feare , Stroakes will more bootlesse and more vile appeare . Many will boast what wonders they haue wrought By blowes , and how their wishes they haue cau●… . How they haue tam'd their shrewes & puld them downe , Making them vaile euen to the smallest frowne . But let those Gyants which such boastings loue , Tell me what they haue got and it will proue , Their wiues their blowes , on hands & face do beare , And they their wiues marks on their foreheads weare . z z These braggants are like that honest man whose wife hauing broke his pate , and he wearing a nightcap , being asked why hee ware it , answered that his wife falling on the suddaine sicke , hee tooke such thought for the same , that hee became himselfe ill also , & so was glad to excuse the matter . Besides who least a wicked wife can tame , Doth oftest brag that he can do the same . Remember she is neighbour to thy heart , And not thy slaue , she is thy better part . Thinke t is enough that her thou maist command , And that she doth in loue-knots loyall stand : Although thy power thou neuer do approue , 〈◊〉 that s the way to make her leaue to loue . Giue her all wishes whilest she doth desire , Nothing but that which reason doth acquire . And when thou hast confirmd thee in her loue , Preserue it safe , let nothing it remoue . And yet to suffer her , do all she will , Without thy knowledge , may much vertue kill . So likwise to instruct without all reason , To perfit loue is more then open treason . To go to feasts and weddings mongst the best , Is not amisse : for there suspect is least . Nor is it meet , that she the Church refraine , Sith there is vertue , and her noble traine . In publike markets and in company , Is neuer found adulterous villany . But in thy gossips or thy neighbours house , And therefore hold such places dangerous . a a By this trick Ariosto sheweth himselfe to be a right Italian : for so do many Italians vse to dog their wiues when they goe abroad , the poore women not thinking that their husbands do watch them as they doe . Yet as deuotion to the Church her leades , Thou shalt do well to marke which way she treades : For often times the goodly pray is still The cause why men do steale against their will . Chiefly take heed , what consort she liues in , Beware of Wolues that weare the Weathers skin . Marke what resort within thy house doth moue , Many kisse children for the nurses loue . b b There was in a certaine Vniuersitie either heere or else where a certain Malt man , who hauing a very sweet & louely browne woman to his wife , many Gentlemen Students and others , would be his kinsmen , in so much that a familiar of his demanded one day of him merrily , which way it came that so many gallants were allied vnto him : who replied laughing ( like a good companion ) by my truth sir I know not , except this kindred come by my wiues side : for before I was married vnto her , there was not one scholler in this Vniuersitie that was acquainted with me . This fellow though he was plaine , yet had hee a shrewd pate , and altough hee said little , yet did hee thinke more , and many drie blowes he would giue these lusty youthes which resort vnto his house , whereof I will giue yoy a taste and so away : One day a gentleman of a good house came to visite him ( or rather if I should say truely his wife ) who meeting him at his dore saluted him , calling him kinseman , and withall asked how his cosen his wife did , saying hee would bee so bold as to goe in and see her . I pray you do , said the goodman , and yet before you goe a word with you . With all my heart , replide the scholler : then said the malt-man , since I came acquainted with you and other kinde gentlemen my kinred , I haue learnt two Latine verses , and I would know the meaning of them . Let me heare them said the yong student : that you shall said the townesman , and these be they . Tuta frequensque via est , per amici fallere nomen : Tuta frequensque licèt sit via , crimen habet . Now , said he , I pray you tell me them in English , I am not so good a scholler at the first sight to explaine them , replied the studdent . Then I am said the married man , and this it is : Friendship with greatest safetie doth deceaue , And yet though safe , t is knauish by your leaue . Hereupon hee fell a laughing , saying , I thinke I haue now paid you home , and so away hee went , leauing the student to goe visit his wife . Some for thy wiues sake much will honour thee ; Doe not with such men hold society . When shee 's abroad , thy feare is of small worth , The danger 's in the house when thou art forth . Yet wisely watch her , lest she doe espy Thy politicke and waking iealousie . Which if she do , then is her reason strong , Thee to accuse , that dost her causlesse wrong . Remoue all causes what so ere they be , Which to her name may coople infamy . And if she needes will cast away all shame , Yet let the world know thou art not to blame . I know no other rules to set thee downe , How thou maiest keep vnstaind thy wiues renowne . Nor how thou maist keep men from hauing power , Thy wiues chast honours basely to deuoure . c c Many hold of opinion that to be a cuckold is destiny and not their wiues dishonesties , as a good fellow in the world said to a friend of his , who telling him hee was sory that so honest a man as he should be abused as hee was , seeing the fault was his wiues and not his . I thanke you neighbour ( replied he ) for your good conceit of me : but I assure you I thinke it was not her fault , but rather mine owne fortune that made me a cuckold : for I verily beleeue whosoere I had married would haue bin n●…ught as wel as she . Nay then ( quoth his neighbor ) if you thinke so , God forbid I should disswade you from an opinion you hold so confidently , and so left him . And yet I le tell thee this , if she haue will To tread awry , thou must not thinke through skill To mend her , for she is past all recure , And what she will do thou must needes indure . Doe what thou canst by art or obseruation , She will create thee of a forked fashion . All 's one if thou do vse her ill or well , When women are resolu'd spight heauen or hell They will strike saile , and with lasciuious breath , Bid all men welcome though it be their death . And for you shall not iustly thinke I lie , Lend but your eare to this true history . There was a Painter whom I cannnot name , A tale . That vsed much to picture out the Diuell , With face and eies fit for a louely dame : Nor clouen feet , nor hornes , nor any euill , So faire he made him , and so formally , As whitest snow , or purest Iuory . The diuell who thought it very great disgrace , The Painter should orecome in curtesie : Appear'd vnto him face to face , Declared what he was in breuity : And that he came but onely to requite , His paines in painting him so faire and white . And therefore wild him aske what so he would , Asluring him to haue his whole request . The wretch who had a wife of heauenly mould , Whose beautie brought his iealous braines vnrest : Intreated for the ending of that strife , Some meanes to be assured of his wife . Then seem'd the diuell to take a goodly ring , An put it on his finger , saying this ; So long as thou shalt weare this pretty thing , Thou maiest be sure she cannot doe amisse . But if thou vse to leaue this ring vnworne , Nor man nor diuell can keep thee from the horne . Glad was this man , and with his gladnesse waked , But scarce had he opened both his eies , Before he felt his wife starke belly naked : And found his finger hid betweene her thighes . Remembring then his dreame how it concluded , He thought the Diuell had him in sleep deluded . And yet not so ( quoth he ) for it is tr●…e If so we meane our wiues shall be no flingers , There is no such deuise , nor old nor n●…w , As still to weare such rings vpon our fingers : For else though all our haires were watchful eies , We should not see their subtill treacheries . Nor can this policy scarce vs auaile , For if she meaneth Cha●…cers iest to trie , She to another will her loue entaile , Although she knew she for the same should die . d d Antonie Siluis a noble man of Venice , hauing a maruellous faire woman vnto his wife , and being sent embassador into Germany vnto the Emperour then liuing , the Signori of Venice , was so iealous ouer her , as hee deuised a most wonderfull , strange and artificiall locke & key per la Fico sua , which the good Lady took vnkindly ( being mistrusted without cause ) that he no sooner was gone onward on his iourney , but that she by the counsel & perswasion of her amorous seruant ( assisted by the cunning deuise of a most ingenious & excellent workman , a Dutchman ) got a false key for the lock , & so enioyed her louing friend all the absence of her husband , who returning home againe neuer perceiued the fraude But after the death of this Lady , the knowledge wherof comming to the Signori of Venice , they for the strangenes of the matter , caused the lock & chain to be amongst their other chiefe monuments in Graund Sala in S. Marks palace , it is made of siluer plate , very thin , & in proportion not much vnlike a horse-shoe , with small little holes in the midst , and is as smooth at the one end as at the other , hauing two little small chaines which came round about her middle , and were shut close on each side with a lock , it is at this day with other antiquities to be seen there . The slie Venetian lockt his Ladies ware , Yet through her wit Acteons badge he bare . My Lord , few married men do liue content , Their wiues as crosses vnto them are sent : So must I say the single life is ill , Sith in the same dwels many troubles still . e e The Poet compareth marriage to Purgatory , whereas they say they continue in paine but for a certaine time . But the Batchellors life he termeth hell , because in respect of the comforts in marriage , it may be termed a hellish life , or else he termeth the batchellors life hell , because he thinks that none perhaps liue honest vntil they be married : & therefore in the greater danger if they die not maides . Yet better t is in purgatorie dwell A little space , then alwaies liue in hell . What my best strength of reasons are you see , And therefore your owne caruer you may be . f f Our Poet here is very merry with his kinseman , especially being an Italian , who of all sports cannot abide any iest that sauoreth of the horn , for if he say

No doubt ,

Ioco di ma●● , Ioco di villano Pigliata nell ●ran scorno Il Ioco dello corno . But in the end he maketh him amends , wishing him as good a wife as good may be , euen the best amongst women . T' is all but one resolue , who ere is borne To marry , likewise must possesse the horne . Yet I but merrily do write and iest , The married mans estate of all is best : And they who cannot chastly lead their li●…es , May in the world find many worthy wiues . One of the best of which I wish to you , One that is louing , loyall , wise and true .

The fift Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

Hee sheweth by occasion of a certaine kinde of gouernment or Liuetenancie ouer a country which the Duke of Ferrara bestowed vpon him , hor●… vnfit he was for any thing but onely for the Muses . And that to be a louer is the greatest fault and greatest absurdity that anyman can commit .

THis day hath fully sum'd an euen yeare , To Master Sigismond Malag●…zzo . Since hither first I made my sad repaire : ( Leauing Ferrara , where I first drew breath , By endlesse toile to hasten speedy death ) . a a Two riuers so called , not farre from the Apenine mountaines . Hither where swift T●…rrita , Serchio meetes , Betwixt two bridges whence their billowes fleetes . Making continuall noise through diuers springs , Which their owne flowing waters to them brings . To gouerne as the Duke did me assigne , b b A little town vpon the borders of the Dukedome of Ferrara , & in these daies somewhat dangerous by reason of the woods and mountaines there abouts , where a number of Bandity kept . His poore distressed flocke of Graffanine , c c Leo the 10. was no sooner dead but Alphonso Duke of Ferrara , entred into the field with an hundred men at armes , two thousand foot , & three hundred light horsemen , & so went to incampe before Cento , after he had recouered by the will of the Italians Bondena , Finale , the mountaine of Moden●… , and Gra●…gnana , and other townes about Romagnia which Leo had taken from him , although he challenged them to be his . Which crau'd his aid asloone as Leo died , Because the Romish yoke they would not bide . Euen Leo who with much sterne crueltie , Had brought them to the gate of miserie , And worse had done , but that the mightie hand Of heauen , did all his tyrannies with stand . And this the first time is in all this while , That euer I did write or ought compile : Or to the learned Muses haue made sute , But dumbly liued , tong-tide and sadly mute , The strangenesse of this place hath so dismaid me , That like a fearefull bird I durst not play me , Who hauing changd her cage , flutters her wing , And through amazement scard , doth feare to sing . ( Kinde kinsman ) that my case is in this sorte , And that from me thou hast not heard reporte . Wonder thou not , but rather doe admire , That in this space my breath did not expire , Seeing I am an exild man , at least , An hundred miles from that I fancie best , Since riuers , rocks , and mountaines boue the skies , d d Ariosto had no fault , but onely that he loued Venerie , which was a veniall sinne amongst the Italians . Keepes me from her is dearer then mine eies . All other businesses which me concerne . I can excuse , and from mine ease doe learne , To make my friends conceiue in generall , That all my greatest faults are veniall . But to thy selfe I will in plaine phrase speake , And all mine inward cogitations breake . To thee I le shriue my selfe , for thou shalt know , Both how my wisedome and my follies growe , Where as to others should I so much tell , My folly would be made my passing bell , To ring my death of wit , whilst with sterne looke , The world would hardly my confession brooke : Saying no question he is mightie wise , Which can see nothing , yet hath both his eies , And is most fit to be a foole to other , When his affects he can nor rule nor smother . Fie to be fiftie yeares and yet to glowe , As ifI did fully fifteene knowe , And then he tels the scriptures strictest lawes , Both scriu'ners ordages , and old mens sawes . Well though I erre , I am not fully blinde , But can my blouds fault in large measure finde : And which is more , I doe condemne the same , And not as others doe , defend my shame . e e He is the rather to be pittied in that he confesseth his fault , beeing sorrie for it , & willingly would he haue amended it , but that he could not . But what auai●…es my penance , when nearelesse I know my faults , yet make my faults no lesse , Or since no precious Antidote I finde , To heale the ranckling v●…cer of my minde : But thou art wiser , since when thou dost please , Thou canst affectious sicknesses appease , Which being hid in man , Nature doth mix , And to mans inward soule the same doth fix . This is the worst the world of me can say , Whose ill perhaps may haue a worse display Then it deserues , although some verball care They haue of me , when great their sorrowes are , ( And would haue more ) if I could this redresse , And these my fleshly motions quite suppresse . Those which in this world speake most curiously , Close in their hearts the deepest iniurie . Thou knowst I know the world hath many a slaue That wil blaspheme , sweare , curse , be mad and raue , Accusing others that they cuckolds be , When his weake iudgement hath no power to see , How goodly , large and spreading is that horne , Which his owne forehead many yeares hath borne : Other diseases euery one can spie , But none will mend his owne deformity . We can reproue in strangers what s amisse , And see not in our selues what vilder is , We take delight that we can reprehend , When t' were mo●… generous our selues to mend . The wallet which behind hangs with sins store , We neuer see , our eies are both before . I neither kill , nor strike , nor doe contend , Nor am I hurtfull , but the whole worlds frend , The worst I doe , is that I onely grieue , Because I cannot with my mistres liue , And thinke it torment more then torments be , To liue from her which onely liues in me , And yet I not forget t' acknowledge this , That herein onely I doe still amisse : Yet not so ill but that by intercession I may be pardond through mine owne confession . The vulgar sort with water oftentimes , ( Not onely greater faults then my small crimes ) Wash cleane away , but ( which breeds greater shame Baptiseth vice with noble vertues name . f f By Hermilian Rainard and others , hee sheweth how many in the world commit grosse●… faults by farre then he did , & yet what they doe passeth for currant , and are not condemned of the worlde . Hermilian that is growne so couetous , ( As to behold the same t is monstrous ) Nor rests by day nor slumbers in the night , But makes his gold his God and his delight , No loue of friend or brother wil he hold , Hates his owne selfe , loues nothing but his gold , Yet is esteemd a man of industry , Of perfit wisedome and great policie . Rainard swels big and doth disdaine his state , Lookes as the world would tremble at his hate . He thinks himselfe what he can neuer be , And feeds his hopes with idle imagery , He will surpasse in spending ill got wealth , And in apparel goes beyond him selfe . A steward he will haue , a huntsman , faulkoner , A cooke , a chamberlaine , and a curious caruer . Lordships he sels , and makes them fly away , A mannor or a parke goes euery day . What his old auncestry had many yeares Gathered together , and left vnto their heires , That with immoderate lauishnes he spends , And through the world in all disorders sends . But what for this ? none murmures at his will , Nor doth demaund why he consumes thus ill : But rather cals him most Magnanimus , Most bountifull , gallant and vertuous . The common sort the Hydra multitude , Thus with their flattery doe him delude . Solonio so much businesse takes in hand , And meddles so with all things in the land , That euen the waight is able to confound The strongest horse that euer trod on ground . Within the custome house he hath a charge , And in the Chancery , a pattent large , To Ports and Keies immediately he flies , Where both his profit and commandment lies . g g One of the strongest and richest places in Rome belonging to the Pope , which Pope Clement the eight bestowed vpon his nephew Don Pietro , it being worth better then 12000 crownes by the yeere . To Castell Angelo then will he scower , And all this done in minute of an howre , The very quintescense of all his braines , He doth distill to bring the Pope newe gaines , Nor doth his cares or painful studies end To any thing saue profit onely tend , It ioyes his hart when he heares Rumor say , That with his toiles he wastes his life away , And so that to his Lord he crownes may bring , He nor respects acquaintance , friend nor kinne . The people hate him , and they haue good cause , Since it is true , t is he which onely drawes The Pope to plague the Citie , and still lades Her with newe customes , taxes and intrudes . Yet a Magnifico this fellow is , High stated and can nothing doe amisse . Whilst like to peassants noblemen not dare To come to him and their great suits declare : But they must cap and crouch and bare head stand , As if he were the Monarch of the land . Laurino takes vpon him ( of pure zeale ) In vpright iustice , chiefe affaires to deale , His country hee le defend through his desarts , Whilst publike good to priuate he conuarts , Three he exiles , but six to death he sends , Begins a Fox but like a Lion ends . From tyrannie his strength he doth create , Whilst gifts and bribes doe euen dam vp his gate : The wicked he doth raise , the good keepes downe , And yet this man is rich in all renowne , He is renound to be both iust and good , When he is full of whordome , theft and blood : Where he should honour giue , he giues disgrace , Malice with pride , & pride with wealth doth place , Whom he should most releeue , he most offends , His ope-eied sustice , loues none but his friends , Crowes oft for Swans & Swans he takes for Crowes , Now knewe this Iustice but my loue-sick woes , What sower faces from him would apeare , Like him that on a close-stoole straining were . Well let him speake his pleasure with the rest , I care not for their speeches , that s the best , Only thee which art mine onely frend , I doe confesse my pleasures are at end , Since I first hither ( gainst my wil ) was tost , My ioyes are gone and my delights are lost . This of my reasons I haue chiefest tride , Though others more I could alledge beside , Why I haue left Pernassus learned mount , Nor with the Muses talkt as I was wont , Then when with thee in Reggio I did stay , ( My natiue soile ) and past the time away , In all best Iouiall sollace and delight , Priding my selfe in waightie verse to write , Those glorious places did me ample good , Reuiu'd my spirits and inflam'd my blood . h h He discribeth a maruailous dainty banqueting house in Reggio , beloaging to the Mallaguzzi , & called so because it is built after the maner of the buildings in Barbary , full of great & wide windowes for coolenes in sommer , and beautified with many excellent and admirable pictures , & statues of great price & worth . Thy Mauritanian lodge for banqueting , Withall the worthiest pictures flourishing , And call my Rodan●… not farre from thence , Of water nimphes the choisest residence , Thy christall fishponds , and thy garden , which A siluer spring with moisture doth inrich , Watring by Aite those checkerd flowers still , And in the end fals downe into a Mill. O how I wish for that and for the rest , Which whilst I did enioy my sense was blest . Nor can my memorie forgoe the thought , Of those braue vines from fertill Luco brought ; Those valleies , nor those hils , nor that high Tower Can I forget , where I haue many an hower Reposd , and searcht out euery shadowie place , The Fresco coole I loued to imbrace : Whilst I one booke or other would translate , Which forraine Authors did communicate . O then I youthfull was and in my prime , My yeeres euen April , or the springs best time , Which now are like October somewhat colde : For I begin , and shall ere long be olde . But neither can the fountaine Hellicon , Nor Ascras valleies , no nor any one Be of the power to make my verses sing , Vnlesse my hart be free from sorrowing : Which being so , then this place where I dwell , Is not for study , sith it is my hell , When here no pleasure is , nor any ioy , More then dissention , horror and anoy . This soile I barraine and vnwholsome finde , Subiect to stormes , to tempests and to winde . One part is hillie , th' other lowe and plaine , Wherein there doth no pleasantnes remaine . The place wherein I liue is like a cell , Deepe and descending downeward as to hell . From hence theirs none can come at any time , Vnlesse he passe the Riuer Appenine . I tell thee gentle Cuz , ill is my taking , Since thus of all my friends I am forsaken . For stay I in my house or to the aire , Seeke to disburthen some parte of my care Nothing I heare but spightfull accusations , Brawle brabbles or more shamefull acclamations , Murthers and thefts and such like villanie , To which I must attend most patiently . This is the cause s●…one while am compeld With mildest reasons to make some men yield , Others to threaten , and by force to drawe , Others to punish by strict penall lawe , Some I absolue , to some I pardon giue , In hope hereafter they will better liue . Then to the Duke I straight doe packets write , For counsaile or for soldiers which must fight , i i Leo the Pope vsed the people of this country so hardly , that they tooke vp armes amongst themselues and became rebels . To th' end those outlawes which about me stay , May or be slaine , or driuen quite away : For one thing I must let thee vnderstand , That in most wretched state abides this land . k k Some think by the Panther he meant Iulius the second , not long before Pope , and by the Lyon Les the tenth . Since the wilde Panther first , the Ly on then , Did in this wofull country make their den . So many lurking theeues doe here abide , And in such numbers flock on euerie side , As not the best commanders which we haue , ( Whose charge is to pursue them to the graue : Dares with his ensignes spread their strengths inuade Such proofes the slaues haue of their valors made : So that he wisest is which safe doth stand , And stirs not to take danger by the hand . Stil I doe write , and write to him againe , Whom it concernes , but all my labours vaine : For though he send ( as reason is he should ) Yet he not sends that answere which I would , l l Fourescore and three Castels or small villages were there in all , which were risen vp in armes by reason they were so mightily oppressed by Pope Leo. Each Castel armes ( within it selfe ) doth take , And fourescore three in number they doe make Of periur'd rebels , who malitiously Spoile their owne country with hostilitie . Iudge then if great Apollo when I call , Wil come or shew himselfe to me at all , Leauing his Cynthien or his Delphian shore , To heare these brabbles which he doth abhorre , Both he and all his sacred sisters nine , To looke vpon such places doe repine : But here thou maist demand of me the cause Which me to this vexation headlong drawes , Leauing my studie with obscure neglect , And my deare mistresse without all respect . O Cuz , thou know'●… I neare was couetous , Nor from ambition haue beene enuious . With a poore pention I haue beene content , Which in Ferrara got I there haue spent . But thou perhaps this chance didst neuer know , That when the warres began with vs to grow . m m When Ariosto first followed the Duke of F●…ara , hee of his own voluntarie minde bestowed a yeerely pension of him , but afterwards hauing waries with the Pope and the Venetians , both at one time , he withdrew his fo●…mer lib●…tie , nor when they were ended did hee restore the same vnto him againe , which Ariost●… tooke very vnkindly . The Duke but slowly did my pension pay , And at the last did take it quite away . During the warres I grieu'd not to be barde Of my best due , but when as afterward , All things was quiet and the world at peace , It troubled me to see my paiment cease . n n Aliud ex ●…io malum , here is one 〈◊〉 vpon an 〈◊〉 ●…eck , he no sooner lost his pen●…ō in F●…rara , but his offi●… 〈◊〉 the Cardinal Hypolito had bestowed vpon him in Milla●… , was taken from him by reason of the ciuill warres in Italie also . And so much more , since by ill boading fate , I then had lost an office in the state . In Millain , through this vnexspected warre , Hoping in vaine , short time would end the iarre , Horses doe sterue ( they say ) whilst grasse doth spring , And I found he said true that so did sing . At last vnto the Court I weary came , And thus my suit vnto the Duke did frame●… My gratious Lord ( said I ) vouchsafe some gaine Vnto the elder merits of my paine . Or suffer me that I may else pursue My fortunes some where else , and not with you . The Grass●… at that time by chance , Began themselues with courage to aduance , o o This was the chiefe captaine of the rebels , who did perswade his companions to leaue the Pope , and yeeld vnto the Duke of Ferrara , which vpon the conditions aforesaid , they did-Whereupon the Duke sent Ariosto th●…her thither as gouernour ( to make him amends for his late vnkindnes ) where he behaued himselfe so w●…sely , that he broug●… the country into great 〈◊〉 , in such w●…e as when he came from them hee left them in a maner in g●…od peace and concord , although whilest he remained there , hee was much 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and disquieted in mind . Being perswaded by Marzoccus song , To leaue the Pope who then had done them wrong . And thereupon sent many embasies , Vnto our Duke their mindes to specifie . Th' effect was this , they humbly craue , They might their auntient priuiledges haue . With their old customes wherto hee s content , And they forthwith yeeld to his gouernment . And hence it came out of some sodaine grace , I chosen was to gouerne in that place . Either because the time so short did grow , That well he knew not where he might bestow The office but on me , or for I best , Might spared be as one of merit lost , For which I count my selfe with humblenesse Bound by this grace vnto his mightinesse . It is his loue which bindes me to his grace , For which I thanke him more then for this place . Which though beyond my spirits it aspire , Yet doth it not accord with my desire . Now if about these rebels you demand , What mine opinion is : it thus doth stand . They rather did deserue seuerity , Then any touch of gentle lenitie : For when I do but call into my minde , How periur'd and perfidious I them finde , Although what ere I did was still to ease them , Yet there s no doubt but I did still displease them . They nor like me , nor I their country loue , And therefore daily pray for my remoue . In this I do resemble Aesops Cocke , Who hauing found a pearle , the same did mocke . A place I haue obtain'd of gaine and fame , And yet ( in sooth ) I care not for the same . As with the sea Venetian , so with me A tale . It fares , to whom a swift-foot barbarie , ( A gallant horse ) was giuen by the king , A Portugale for some great meriting , Who for he would shew that he did accept , His royall gift , and not the same reiect , ( Forgetfull how the difference to discerne , T'ixt vse of bridles , and the the tall ships sterne , Mounts on his back , and therewith taketh hold , Vpon the pannell , like a horse-man bold , That done he strikes his spurs into his side , Saying softly to himselfe , for all thy pride , Thou shalt not fling me downe do what thou can , If the girths hold , I le shew my selfe a man . The fiery iade , feeling the wounding spurre , Began to plunge , to bound and keep a sturre : Which when the good old Sea-man felt , he more , Drawes in his bridle then he did before : And spurs him worse , both on the flankes and side , Till with his bloud his riders heeles were dide . The horse not vsed to be ridden so , Nor can his riders doubtfull meaning know , The bridle holding backe , and bidding stand , The spurre to go on forward doth command . But in the end , madly resolu'd thereon , Flat on the ground he flings sir Pantalon . Our great Magnifieo lies on his back , And cries as he were torturd on a racke . With thighes all sore , and shoulders out ofioint , His head sore bruisde , his heart at deaths last point , All pale with griefe and feare in piteous wise , Be smeard with durt , at last he vp doth rise : Right malecontented that he was so mad , To deale in that where he no iudgement had . Farre better had he done , and so had I , He with his horse , I with this country , T' haue said my Liege , or Lord , I am not fit For this high place , nor do I merit it . This bountie doth exceed what I deserue , Let it some better worthes and not mine serue , If either I or he had beene thus plaine , I had had much more ease ; he 〈◊〉 paine .

The sixt Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

Hee sheweth what qualities a good Schoolemaster ought to haue , and how hardly any is found honest of that coat , and in the end setteth downe certaine grieuous losses which hee endured in his youth time .

BEmbo , a a He wrot this Satyre before Bembo was Cardinal , who as I said before was Secretary to Leo the 10. who aduanced him to that degree , I nothing couet or require , ( Though t is the carefull parents strong desire ) To Mr. Peter Bembo . b b Although he were neuer married yet had hee two sons by a very faire woman called Alessandra , wherof this Virginio whom he loued best was one . The other was called Gran Baptista , but the Lady to who●… hee was d●…ed 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 called Geneu●…a , a●… hee himselfe confesseth in his seuenth Canzon or 〈◊〉 , where he doth figuratiuely set it downe in a most schollerlike manner . So much as I might my Virginio see , Rarely instructed in Philosophie , Which who so hath he then is in request , And may take vp his ranke amongst the best . Now since I know that thou most learned art , And of each liberall science holdst best part : Euen from my best of loue , I humbly craue That of this youth , some watchfull care thou haue And yet I would not haue thee to conceiue , That with thee any trouble I would leaue : Or that I would thou shouldst his Pedant be , To teach him Grammar rules industriously : T is not my mind : for I would haue thee know , Better good manners doth within me grow , Such men of worth as thou , and of thy place , With these disparagements we do not disgrace : Onely my meaning is that at thy leasure , Thou wouldst vouchsafe to do me that hie pleasure . As to bethinke thee , if vnto this end , Thou knowst in Venice any worthy friend , Or else in Padoa mongst the learned throng , Who speaks the Grecian & the Caldean tongue , Skilfull in knowledge , iust in deed and word , With whom he may haue learning , and his board . If such a one thou knowst of worth and skill , He shall ( with reason ) haue what ere he will : Let him be learned , but especially Looke that his life be fixt to honesty : For if in vertue he do not surmount , Of th' other qualities I make no accoun●… T' is easie to find learned , but we can Hardly find out a learned honest man . For in this age , who most of art doth braue , Hath oft most vice ( reading makes him a knaue ) c c This is a common speech in Italy when any hath committed any notable or horrible sinne , they terme it Ironice , or a small Peccadillo of Spaine : which grew first from this occasion . A certaine Caualier of Spaine came to his Confessor to be shriuen of his 〈◊〉 , to whom the Frier giuing ●…are , he began to tel him that he had mightily offended in pride . His Ghostly father told him , that it was the root of all euill , and the chiefe president of al the other deadly finnes : but said hee , despaire not , and beleeue faithfully , and thou mayest be forgiuen , and the rather because all Spaniards by nature are proud and surly . Secondly he told him he was giuen to be very wrathfull and full of choller : and this , answered the Frier , is another deadly sin , and yet pardonable , in that you being a Souldier and a braue man at armes , ought not to pocket vp any indignitie or abuse : especially if it were to the disparagement of your honour . Thirdly he said , he was giuen to lust and lecherie : and that repl●…d the Confessor , is a heauy finne : yet may proue to be light through grace , and may well bee forgiuen as veniall , because thou art a lusty young man , and in the prime of heat and youth , and no doubt but age will tame it in you . Fourthly he said he was giuen much to gluttony , & that ( said his Ghostly father ) may be pardoned , in that when you liue at home at your owne house , you liue with little , not surfeting in meat or drinke , as you doe when you are abroad . To conclude , the spani●…rd told the Frier , he was guilty of the other three sinnes , which were Sloth , Enuy and Couetousnesse : the more is the pitty ( answered the Priest ) yet for your slo●…h , take more paines hereafter : In stead of being enuious , be louing & charitable : And for your couetousnesse , entertaine liberality & bounty , which will bring you soone to heauen , and so God forgiue you & I do . And hauing so said , he rose to go his way , when the Spaniard staying him with his hand , told him , he had one little thing more to tell him of . The Frier asked him what it was . He replied , that it was a matter of no moment , & a me●…e 〈◊〉 . Yet ( quoth the other ) cleare your conscience of all , now you haue begun . But said the Span●…ard it is not worth the speaking of , it is nothing , Nados , nados , Peccadillos , peccadillos . The Frier hearing him make so small account of the same , & yet not willing to disclose it , was the more earnest with him to tel it . Whereupon on the suddaine , the Spaniard burst out into these words . Non credo in Deos : I do not beleeue in God . The Frier hearing him say so , blest himself with the signe of the crosse , as if he had bin some diuel , & away he got from him as fast as euer he could trudge . And euer since that time any famous or notorious villa●…y , is termed Peccadillos di Spagna , by the contrary . Besides , the Peccadillos smal of Spaine , They say he in his speeches doth maintaine . Of Atheisme they him challenge and approue , The faith Apostolike he doth not loue : Nor of that Vnitie ( admired most ) Betwixt the Father , Sonne and holy Ghost . He cannot thinke how th' one from th' other goes , Like diuers springs which from one sountaine flowes . Nor can he in his sense conceiue how one , Should or be three , or that three still be one . He rather thinketh that if hold he shall , An argument quite opposite to all . Contesting with all sacred verity , Alledging for sound reason Sophistrie . That then his wit is excellent and rare , And his conceir beyond the best compare . Making the world beleeue he climbs the aire , And reaches to 〈◊〉 sacred chaire . d d Two famous Friers , the first of the order of S. August●… , the other of S. Francis , & now of late daies , Lupo Panigarola & Aqua penden●…e haue beene counted very learned Preachers in the court of Rome , insomuch that the Pope would say Lupus monet , 〈◊〉 sua●… , & Aquapendente ●…cet . If Nicoletto preaching holy writ , Or famous Martin with his learned wit : Suspected be of infidelity , Or if they chaunce to hold strong heresie : Their too much knowledge , I accuse thereof , Nor will I angry bethereat or scoffe , Sith their ambitious spirits mounting hie , To search Gods deep forbidden secresie . No maruel t' is though they confounded are , When they beyond their strengths will wade so far . But thou whose study is humanity , Wherein no such depth lies confusedly : Whose subiects are the woods and shadowing hils , Or chrystall springs whence water clens'd distils : Whilest thou old martiall stories dost rehearse , And blaze abroad in proud Heroicke verse : Or with the rhetoricke of sweet words dostmoue , And turnest harsh thought vnto pliant loue . Or else with pleasing flattery too too base , Princes dost praise when they deserue difgrace . Tell me what thou in thy conceit dost find , That thou with madnes shouldst perturb thy mind ? Or what doth with thy knowledge disagree , That thou as others shouldst not honest be . e e Many Italians both men and women will chuse rather to bee called after the old Romans then as Christians are , as Peter they will be called P●…rio , for Iohn , Iano , for Luke , Lucio , for Mark , Marco & such like . The name thou didst receiue when thou wert borne Of Saint or of Apostle , thou dost scorne : When they thy suerties do Christian make , And so into th e holy Ch●…ch do take , In Cosnico or in Pomponio , Thou changest Peter to Pierio , Iohn into Iano or Iouinian : Turning the cat Reureso in the pan , As if the worse thou shouldst be for the name , Or thou thereby shouldst purchase greater fame , To be a better Poet , then ifseriously , Thou plid'st thy booke with lesser vanity . Such fooles as these are such as Plato did , From euery ciuill common-wealth forbid . By his graue discreet lawes , Since he well knew , Nor good nor profit would from them accrew . Yet Phoebus musicke nor Amphions art , Shall not compare with these in any part . Nor those which first did holy verse deuise , Whose sacred tunes perswaded Angell wise , Men for to liue with men , and to giue ore To feed like beasts on achornes ( as before ) Whilest in the woods and thickets wofully , They sauage like did range confusedly . Most true it is , such as were strongst of all , ( Whose lawless force the weakest did enthrall Taking from them their flocks , their food , their wiues , And often times ( without all cause ) their liues ) At last became obedient to that law , Which to be needfull for themselues they saw , Whilest following plowes and ●…ling of the land , They iustly got by labour of their hand , And through the sweat which issued from their paines , The worthy haruest of their honest gaines . Hence did the learn'd perswade the ignorant , And simple people , who did iudgement want : That Phoebus buil●… vp ●…oy with musikes sound , And Amphions harp rai●…d 〈◊〉 out of the ground : That musicke could make mountaines to obay , And stones to daunce about when they did play : As Orpheus did , who with his holy song , Lions and Tygers drew with him along . Yet think not though gainst these of mine own coat , I thus enueigh with loud and open throat : But that ( besides vs Poets ) I do see , In other schoolemen as much vanitie , Who do deserue worse punishment then speach , If to the world I durst their crimes appeach . f f Quintilian was the first famous Grammarian that euer read openly in Rome . T is not Quintilian , t is not he alone , That doth his Schollers villanies bemone , But others , whom if here I should display , And tell their vices , thou wouldst quickly say , g g This was an excellent Orator called Gi●…nan di Pistoia : He wrot diuers epistles in Italian , but very wanton which are much in request amongst his countrymen the Italians . That from Pistoius closset ( not from mine ) h h

He meaneth from some of Aretynes lasciuious workes , which are of great account in his cuntry . Ar●…yne was borne in Arezzo , a towne subiect to the duke of Florence , and where excellent dishes are made of fine earth for banquering stuffe . At first he studied diu●…tie : But when he saw the Court of Rome to make no account of vertuous learning , he gaue ouer that course , and writ most villanous bookes , as Villa dille 〈◊〉 , del●…e Maritale , & delle Curtezant . He was such a seuere taxer of Princes faults , which liued in his time , that he was called ●…lagello delli Principi , the scourge of Princes . He died in Venice , and lieth buried in Sebastians Church , with this ●…tathe .

Qui iacet l 〈◊〉 Amara Tosco , Del s●…men humani lacia lingua tra●…e , Et viue , & morti 〈◊〉 Idnio mal disse : Et si scuso con dio I nol conosco . Here biting Aretyn lies buried , With gall more bi●…er neuer man was fed . The liuing nor the dead to carp he spared , Nor he for any King or Keysar cared . Onely on God to raile he had forgot , His scuse was this ( quoth he ) I know him not . They stolne haue , and from Peter Aretine . From others studies , honor oft and shame I reape , and so with pleasure mix defame : Yet not in such wise as when I doe spie ; That Poets praise as well doe liue as die . More I doe grieue and inwardly lament , i i By this couert name be bewaileth the disgrace of Poetry that is in this age . To heare how faire Aonio by consent , Is senselesse held without all braine or wit , And that the winde so wauering doth not flit : Then if from some most foolish Doctors voice , His neare Ally in folly and in choice . I should haue heard the same , to whom some foole ( Like to him selfe ) in his vnlettred schoole , The selfe same honor on his same should clap , With a scarlet gowne , and formall corner cap. k k Vnder these faigned names of Placidian & others which follow after , as Andronoco , Pandarus , Curio , Ponticus , Flauius , Cu●…tro and the rest , hee taxeth some great men that haue liued , of grieuous faults . It greeues me more that weake Placidian still With feasts and surfets should his old age fill , As when he did his youths first heate enioy , And that from man he should become a boy : Then for to know how that the same disease , Andronico my neighbour doth displease , Who hath possest it full this seauen yeare , And yet ( as at the first ) is nothing cleare . If it be told me , greedy Pandarus Is ore much griping , Curio Iealious , That Ponticus affects Idolatrie , And Flanius sweareth most egregiously : It doth with spight go to my heart more neare , Then when , for small gaines I Cusatr●… heare False Iudgements vpon any one to fix , Or that Masse Baptist doth strong poison mix Amongst his Phisick , whilst ( through trechery ) His spanish figs kils vs vnnaturally . Or , sith that Master in Theologie , ( The counterfeit of deepe Diuinitie ) Who ( for the nonce ) to doe his country wrong , Mixeth his Burgamasks with the Tuscan tongue , Keepeth in pay a sniueling durty whore , Who at one birth two bastards to him bore : Whilst for to please her greedy nere-fild gut , He spends . Gods cope vpon that brothell slut , Though his owne sterued mother mongst the poore Goes vp and downe , and begs from doore to doore : Yet afterward I heare him blushlesse cry , As if he were nought else but sanctitie . Saying I am the man doth pray and fast , Giues almes , and leads my life pure virgine chast , And which is more , thou knowst , ô God aboue , Deare as my selfe I doe my neighbour loue . But neither this dissembling nor the rest , Brings to my thoughts or trouble or vnrest , So that it shall nor breake my quiet sleepe , Nor me from foode or other pleasures keepe . It is not me , it is themselues they wound , The sores whereof wil on their soules be found . But to returne from whence this speech me draue , l l He meaneth Virginio of whom we spake of before , who afterward became a Church man , & had very good ecclesiasticall liuings , but his other sonne Gian Battista was a soldier , & became Captain of a band of men of the Duke of Feraras , of whom he was well accounted , & liued in good esteeme with him . I for my sonne would such a Master haue , As by my good will with these vgly crimes , Should nor be staind , nor challeng'd by the times : One that would truly make him vnderstand , From the great language ( so loued in our Land ) m m He meaneth Homer that famous Greeke Poet. What politick Vlysses did at Troy , Both of his trauels and his sad anoy , n n Appolonius of the sect of Pythagorians , wrot an excellent discourse of his trauels in greeke , which is extant . Or all that euer Appolonius writ , Or what Euripides ( that fount of wit ) With tragedies of stately Sophocles , And the Astrean Poets workes of praise . To them adde Pindarus whose famous bookes , Called Galatea from the water-brookes : With all those other writers which so long Haue beene renowned for the Greekish tongue , Already hath my selfe taught him to know , Virgil and Ouid , and Horace long agoe . Plautus and 〈◊〉 he doth vnderstand , And oft haue seene them acted in our land . Thus ( without me ) by this his Latine aide , o o His meaning was when his sonne had gotten the Latine tongue pe●…sitly , then he should learne the Greeke , and not before . He may hereafter safe to Delphos traide , Nor can he misle the way to Hellicon , But safely to his iourneys end pas●…e on , Yet that his iourney may the safer be , And he more strengthned by his industry . p p Ariostos care is to be commended , in that he is so desirous to haue a good schoolemaster for his sonne . I faine would haue for him a trusty guide , Whose knowledge in these countries hath beene tride , My slothfulnesse , or rather desteny , q q He was for●…e he could not teach his sonne Greeke as well as hee did Latine . Forbids my selfe to keepe him company . From Phoebus Temple vnto Delos I le , As Roman gates I opened him erewhile , My meaning is , that I am farre to seeke , Though Latine I him taught , to teach him Greeke . Alas , when first I was by nature giuen To verse , and not thereto by strong hand driuen : My bloome of youth being in the first apeare , As hauing on my chinne not one soft heire , My father with all rigor of his wit , Quickly compels me to abandon it , To study glosses and the ci●…ll Law , In which fiue yeares I spent , but no good sawe . But when he from his wisedome did perceiue That I an endlesse web began to weaue , And that against my nature I did climbe , The scale I loued not , and so lost my time , With much adoe he gaue me libertie , And made his will my will accompany . Now was I twentie yeares of age and more , Nor had I any schoolemaster before , So as ( to tell you true ) I scarse was able To vnderstand in Asope any fable , Till smiling fortune brought me to conuerse , r r This was an excellent Latinist , and a good Grecian , and the best schoolemaster that euer Ariosto had . With Gregorie of Spoleto whose commerce , I shall renowne and euer loue his name , Because what skill I haue , from him it came . In Romane language he was excellent , And in the Grecian tongue as eloquent ; So that he well could iudge from skill profound , Whose trumpet had the shrill or better sound , Or Venus sonne , or Thetis louely boy : But I in those deepe iudgements tooke no ioy , Nor sought to knowe the wrath of Hecuba , Nor how Vlysses slily stole away From valiant Rhesus , both his life and horse , By art of wit , and not by manly force . For I desirous was to know at first , Why to Aeneas , Iuno was so curst , Or why her malice with prolixitie , Held him from being king of Italie . Besides me thought no glorie would arise , From the Greeke tongue , to me in any wise , If first I did not Latine vnderstand , It being once the tongue of our owne Land . Whilst thus the one with industry I sought , Hoping the other would with ease be caught : Angry occasion fled me , for because , Offring her fore-lock , I did seeme to pause : s s He meaneth Isabel daughter to Alphonso , king of Naples , whose husband Iohn Galbazzo Sforza was duke of Millan , ouer which state his vnkle Lodwick ( surnamed the More , because he was of a tawny complexion ) did vsurpe , & in the end poisoned his foresaid nephew , who died at Pania , after whose death his sonne called Francis Sforza , who maried Beaterice the daughter of Hercules Duke of Ferrara , beeing very young , succeeded his father in the Dukedome , but his foresaid great vnckle Lodowick ruled all . To this yong Duke Francis Sforza , was Gregorie di Sp●…lete rutor , by the meanes of Isabell his mother . That haplesse dutchesse tooke my Gregorie From me , to fix in her sonnes company , Whose Vnckle did vsurpe his souerainty , For which she saw reuenge sufficiently . ( Though to her cost ) alasse why was 't not ment , That he which wrongs should haue the punishment●… t t After Iodowick had a while vsurped vpon the duchie of Millan , which belonged vnto his Nephew , both he and his Nephew were betraied by the Swizers , & sold vnto Lewis the 12. then King of France , who sent them prisoners to the castell of Loches , wherein they remained as long as they liued . The aforesaid Lod●…wick was a Prince most excellent for his eloquence and industry , & for many good gifts of nature and spirit , a creature of very rate perfection , had he not beene of a too ambitious and aspiring minde . others reporte that there was no commendable qualitie in him , but giuen to be busie headed and troublesome , ●…ing his neighbour Princes together by the eares : he was the first which brought Lewis the 12. King of France into Italie , being one of the chief occasions of all the troubles that happened vnto hi country : others say he began an vsurper , liued a dissembler , and dyed a begger , and which is worse , a wretched prisoner . The vnckle and the nephew , such was fate , Lost at one instant , kingdome , goods , and state : Both being conuaid close prisoners into France , One instant giuing date to each mischance . But Gregorie at the suite of Isabel , Followed his scholler whom he lou'd so well , u u Gregorie of Spoleto following the yong Duke Francis Sforza into France , within a while after dyed there . To France he follow'd , where he liu'd , till death Tooke from his best of friends their best of breath . This losse so great , with other losses more , Which ( vnexspected ) I with patience bore , Made me forget the Muses , and my song , And all that to my study did belong . x x When Ariosto was 24. yeares of age , his father died ( who in his youth had beene a companion of Duke Borzo , & after that an officer to Duke Hercules ) leauing his mother called Maria to liue with him , & another of his sisters called Maria also , for whom he was to prouide a dowrie . Then dyed my father : from Maria now , My minde I to Maria needs must bow , I now must finde a husband who must take One of my sister to his louing make . Then for another I must straight prouide , That to a lesser charge I might be tide : y y Although Ariosto was the eldest sonne , yet was he not left rich , because his fathers liuing stoode most vpon offices and fees which died with him . For though the Land came vnto me as haire , Yet others held in it with me a share . Then to my yonger brothers was I bound , Who me a father in my loue haue found , Doing that office which most dutiously I ought performe to sacred pietie . Some of them vnto studie did attaine , Some in the Court did couet to remaine : Each one to such good courses so well bent , That to my conscience they gaue good content , Whereby I saw their vertuous infancy , Would saue their age from all indignitie : Nor was this all the care which from my booke , Kept my long thirsty and desiring looke : But many more , ( though these sufficient be ) That I was forc't in this extremitie , To ty my Barke vnto the safe calme shore , Lest it should saile at randon as before , And so vnwares vpon the quick-sands runne , Whereby the rest and I might be vndone . z z He w●…s so much perplexed with the cha●…ge of so great a familie as he had , and with bestowing his sisters , and prouiding for his brothers , that he was in a maner ready to giue ouer his study , had not the emulation which he had with a gentleman of his own name & kinne , called Pandolpho Ariosto , still renewed his former disposition . But I as then so many crosses had , And in so many folds of griefes was clad : That I desired nothing but my death , As weary onely of a wearie breath . a a Pandolph●… his cheefe fréd and cosin dying : he tooke his death so heauily , as for a while he gaue ouer his booke and study . Ay me ! as then my chiefest pleasure died , The columne whereon all my hopes relied , He whose commerce did onely ioy my hart , Gaue life vnto my studie , bred mine art : Whose sweetest emulation made me runne , That from the world I might the goale haue wun . My kinsman , friend , my brother most , most , deare My heart , my soule , nay then my soule more neare , My best Pandolpho died , ô that my death Had beene the happy ransome of his breath . O hard mishap , ô cruell ouerthrow , That to the Ariostian house could grow , To lese their choisest branch , their garlands grace , Whose like shall neuer grow in any place . In so great honor liuing didst thou liue , That I but rightly said , when I did giue Thee first preheminence to vertues crowne , In all Ferrara , or Bologna towne ; From whence thy noble ancestors first came , And at this day doe florish in the same . If vertue honor giues , as vice disgrace , Then neuer was there any of his place , More likelier to obtaine in each degree , All honor , worth , and famous dignity . Now to my fathers death , and next to his , ( Two images my soule can neuer misse , ) b b This was Hypolito the Ca●…dinall , of whom we spake so much in the first Satyre , hauing receiued but small kindnesse for his great paines in seruice . Adde how I was oppressed with the thrall , Of seruitude vnto the Cardinall : c c The honest disposition of the Poet , who commendeth the Cardinall , although he had no cause thereto . And yet no Prince with him may be compar'd For bounty , though to me perpetuall hard . For f●…om the time Pope Iu●…o was create , Euen till his breath of life did consummate , Andafterward , of Leo seauen yeare , He did not suffer me stay any where , And so my wits about his workes applide , That in no certaine place I could bide : That from a Poet I was straight transuerted , And to a worthlesse Caualier conuerted . d d This was aboue 18 , yeeres in all , all which time he followed the Cardinals seruice with exceeding great paines , yet receiued little or no benefit . Note then if posting alwaies vp and downe , Through Cities , Courts , & euery country towne , I could the Greeke or Chaldean tongue obtaine , Whilst to my selfe my selfe did not remaine . Now I assure thee I do much admire , That such a fate my fate did not acquire , e e Aulus Gellius mak●…th mention of a certain philosopher in Athens , who through a blow he had vpon the head with the fall of a great stone , fell into such a strange ifinrmity , that after he was recouered he lost his memory , 〈◊〉 such wise , that he forgot that euer he was scholler , nor vnto his death could rem●…mber that euer he knew or had any learning at all . As did to that Philosopher befall , Vpon whose head a stone fell from the wall , Whose very stroke did from his braine disseuer All former thoughts and motions whatsoeuer . But to be breefe good Bembo I thee pray , ( Ere I too late should wish ) elect the way , To choose for my Virgini●… such a frend , As thy best iudgement may with worth commend , That right might guide him to Pernassus hill , Since I thereto haue neither fate nor skill : Yet no such Pedagogue I craue as this , Whose storie I le relate , and this it is . There was an youth in Spaine , of ill-bred blood , A Tale . In learning poore , but rich in wordly good , Whose frends when he was yong put him to schoole , But all in vaine , the foole prou'd still more foole . At last a liuing of the Church there fell , In that same towne where this rich foole did dwell : And to the same a free schoole ioyned was , Whither the townsmens children all might passe Gratis , and teaching haue , sith stypends great , Allotted was to th' one and th' others seate . Now when his kinne of this had heard the fame , They thought with coine to plant him in the same : Meaning for schoole an vsher he should haue , And for his Church some Deacon , sober , graue , To both of which , small pensions he should giue , And on the surplussage himselfe would liue : For this was in the daies of ignorance , When men did wealth , not worthy arts aduance , Besides they thought , by this deuise to make The world this foole for some wise Solon take : When they should heare what liuings he possest , In which they none but men of note inuest . Hence from the King of Spaine by coyne they got His royall letters , to commend this sott Vnto the Pope himselfe , for it was he , That held this guift in his owne charitie . Besides a priuie item in them was , His holinesse should suffer this rich asse To be instald , and not examined , As one whose art was onely famozed . Onely three words of latine he was taught , When with his letters first he should be brought Before the Pope : which spoken artfully , He should haue his dispatch with breuity . The first was this , making a reuerence , He onely should say , Salue sancte parens . The Pope then , Vnde venisti , would reply , De Spania must he say , then by and by . Vbi sunt litterae ( last ) the Pope would say , He then must answere , In mantica mea : And take them forth , and kissing them he shold , Forthwith dispatcht be , with his bribing gold . Thus being taught his le●…on by his friends , Towards Rome he h●… , for there his iourney tends . But halfe the way he hardly had discernd , Ere he had lost the Latine he had learn'd . Now as he beat his braines againe to find , What he had lost , though t' was out of his mind : It fortun'd as he did amuze thereon , To see come by a great Procession . One of the Priests whereof did loudly sing , Sal●…e sancte parens , that the streets did ring . When as this dunse no sooner heard the same , But into his dull braine forthwith it came : Those were the words he onely had forgot , And therefore ouerioyed at his lot : Great hast he makes to haue a swift accesse , ( By meanes of friends ) vnto his Holinesse . Where falling downe low , Salue sancte parens , Sayes this foole Scholler , in an open audience . The Pope not knowing what he meant by this , Saies , Non sum mater Christi , you your mark do misse . The other sencelesse ( Paraquito like ) Not knowing what he spake or wrong or right , De Spania , did reply with count'nance bold , The Pope , that with a frowne did him behold , Mumbled , Demonium habe adolescen t●… ; In mantica mea , he replied , and drew His bag , to giue his letters to the Pope : Who thinking with the Diuell he should cope , Cried out , and for to run was ready prest , Till oneofsome more wit then all the rest , Found that an Asse was in a Lions hide , Whose base ambition all men did deride . But when the Pope the Spanish King did see , So earnest in this fooles behalfe to be : And likewise did consider how much gaine , His coffers by such Idiots did retaine : Accipiamus pecuniam then he said , Et admittamus Asinum in his stead . Thus was the Spaniard lightned of his gold , And both these liuings vndeseru'd did hold . Bembo , no such like Pedant do I craue , We and the world too many of them haue . Let him be learned , and an honest man , Let him haue both these vertues if you can . " Where vertue reigneth most , least vice is still : " Thy iudgement's good , I aske but thy good will .

The seuenth and last Satyre . THE ARGVMENT .

Hee sheweth that honours change manners , and that many men increasing in fortune and riches , change their first good vertues and qualities , being e●…her vnmiuafull or vnthankefull towards such f●… whom they haue receiued former courtesies , & how his desire alwaies was to liue at his study and booke quietly , and with a small liuing .

NOble a a Arioste writ this Satyre a little before hee got leaue to giue ouer his Liu●…nancie of Grassanana , which he so much misliked : and this Pistofil●… being Secretary to the Duke of Ferrara , obtained licence for him to come away , not long before which time he offred him to go Embassador to Pope Clement , but he would not in any wise accept it . Pistofile , thou dost write to me , IfI the Dukes Embassador would be , Written to the honorable Bonauenter , 〈◊〉 , Secretary to Alphonso Duke of Ferrara . b b Clement the seuenth , was base sonne to Iulio ( Leo the tenths brother ) he was called Iulio before , & was first made knight of the Rhodes , by the afore named Leo his kinsman , and after that , Cardinall and Legat of Bologna . He was so mightie when he was Cardinal , as making his entry into two Conclaues , he was absolute commander of 16. voices . He was at last made Pope within two yeares after the death of Leo , notwithstanding the many obtrusions and emulations of the most ancient Cardinals . This man married Catherine di Medices , his Neece , vnto the second sonne of Francis the French king : and in his time was Rome sacked by the Emperial armie ( whereof the Duke of Burbon was General , & was slaine before the walles ) and the Pope himselfe , with certaine Cardinals , taken prisoners . Hee died hated of all his Court , suspected of most Princes , & for the order of his life , he left behind him a renowne , rather hatefull then acceptable : for hee was accounted couetous , of little fidelity , and naturally farre of from doing pleasure to any man , insomuch that hee was in a manner vnwilling his owne house of Medici should be aduanced . Vnto Pope Clement , and for three yeares space , In Rome liue Ledger , with all port and grace : To giue thee notice , and thou wilt with paine , To my request this suit and glory gaine . Besides , with reasons thou dost me perswade , That I would in this noble motion wade : As first that all men haue esteemed me , A perfit friend vnto the Medici : That we acquaintance most familiarly , Haue had together , and most inwardly : As well when they at first were banisht men , As when their C●…y cald them home agen . c c Although our Poet was well acquainted with Pope Leo and all the house of Medici , when they were but priuate Citizens , and after when they obtained greater dignities : yet hee like a wise man , looking into the world , and perceiuing the fashion of countries , how they would giue faire words , but doe few kind deedes , considering how well hee deserued at their hands , hee very cunningly drewe his necke out of the collar , and gaue ouer the Court . But to come to Leo the tenth againe , he was chosen Pope , the seuenth day after the Cardinals went into the Conclaue , being then bu●… 〈◊〉 . yeares old , the young Cardinals being the occasion of his election , by their great industry , hauing long time before secretly agreed amongst themselues , to create the first Pope of their number : his name was Iohn before . He was a mightie Prince in his time for he possessed in peace , and great obedience , the large estate of the Church of Rome , and his whole court florisht wonderfully vnder him , in plentifull happinesse and felicitie . Hee had full authoritie ouer the sta●…e of Florence , which in those da●…es , was a common wealth mighty in people , policy , and riches . He was naturally inclined to pleasures , & therefore tooke no great delight in hearing of suits and busying himselfe about such a●…faires as concerned the Apostolicall sea : his custome was to consume the day in hearing of musick , in seeing of stage-plaies , and trifling with scoffers and ●…esters , and was so ●…nate , a●… hee was altogether estranged from warres , giuing himselfe so much to ease , that he grew so corpulent and fat , as though he was but a yong man , yet was he scarce able to goe vpon his legs . Besides , he was ouer liberall & m●…gnificall , insomuch that he not onely wasted the treasures that Iulio the 2. his Predecessor left him , but also was euer poore & needy . He had no great care to raise or make great his house or kindred , after his 2. brethren Iulio & Peter were dead , being greatly vnfortunate in this , that he liued to see in himself the end of his own house , excepting one yong maiden , who was called Katherine de Medices , of whom we spake before . He died in ●…ome of a feuer But as some say , he was poisoned by B●…rniby Malespina , his Chamberlain , whose office was alwaies to giue him drink , & it was thought he was hired therunto by the French king then li●… . That I knew Leo after and before On crimson shooe the golden crosse he bore . Next ( that besides thou thinkst , I profit should The Dukes estate ) vnto my selfe it would Exceeding gaine , and mightie profit bring , Besides the steps of honour I should win . That in a riuer great , more fish are caught , Then in a little brooke of easie draught : That Princes seruices haue no compare , And where we profit find , all pleasures are . But now that you haue to my minds best eie , Explain'd your wisedome , hearken my reply . First to thy noble vertues thankes I giue , That thus in thy remembrance I do liue : And that I find thou alwaies didst contend , How me vnto aduauncements to commend : Seeking to make me worthy as the best , When my dull spirit with no fire was blest . Next , I assure thee , willingly I wold , Passe fire , or flood , or any , freezing cold , To serue the Duke : nor shalt thou me command , To Rome alone , but euery other land I le post through willingly , and trie the fate Of Fraunce , of Spaine , or of the Indian state . But where thou saiest , that I shall honours gaine , And to my selfe a world of wealth attaine , If that thou thinkest will moue , then pardon me , For in that point I cannot iump with thee : d d Vultes annosahaud capitur laqueo . Ariosto had tried the Court so often , where he found onely words & no deedes . Other deuices must allure my minde , Ambition in my thoughts I neuer find , Honour I haue too much , I none do lacke , And faine I would discharge some from my backe . It shall suffice , as through Ferrara I Walke , to dispatch my buisinesse seriously : Each one that meetes me , giues me courtesie , Vaileth his hat , and speaketh thankfully : e e ●…lphonso duke of Ferrara vsed him very kindly , making him in some sort his companion , though otherwise hee got little in his seruice . For all men know it oft hath pleas'd his grace , That I at his owne table should take place . Nor when or for my selfe , or for my frend , I do the weight of any suit commend , Am I repulst : but what I wish to draw , ( So it agree with reason or the Law ) And ( if although my mind be satisfide , With all that doth in honours power abide ) I had so much of wealth that my desire , Vnto a greater height could not aspire : I then should quiet be , where now my minde , To keep a compasse right , I neuer find . I for my selfe but this wish and and no more , That I might liue , not beg of others store . Which henceforth i le not hope for , since I proue , So many mightie men haue vow'd my loue , As might haue made me rich , and yet refused , ( For little I haue had , and lesse haue vsed ) Whence growes the cause that thus I poorely serue , Although I might say , better I deserue . f f Fortune is fained by the Poets , to be slow in escaping from the vessel of Epimetheus : that is , an after w●… is better then a fore-wit , a good lucke commeth not so soone as an ill . Of this Epimetheus , you may read more in Plato . I will not that the power which once was slow , From carelesse Epimethius crue to go : Shall draw me like a Buffone by the nose , Nor will I more delight in flattering shoes . Much doth the painted turning wheele me feare , Which after one selfe manner euery where Is drawne by painters : true t' is like to be , When as so many in one thing agree . g g Alluding to the common saying , Fortuna fauet fatuis : for commonly it is seene , who deserueth best , findeth least fauour at he hands . He that sits on the top thereof's an Asse , All know this riddle , and may let it paste Withour a Sphynx which may the same expound , The meaning with such easinesse is found . h h He saith that euery one that is lifted vp vpon the wheele of Fortune looketh hie , for-getting his old friends , & becommeth a new man as it were , not remembring his old poore acquaintance , with whom he so familiarly conuersed before . Besides , these seene that all which mount on hie , E●…soones refine their members curiously . i i Meaning honours changeth manners : Affirming that a meane man raised to dignity , and then humbling himselfe , as he did before , shall bee rather hindred then aduanced thereby , and therefore he must keepe state still . And what of earth behind doth heauy stay , That keepes him backe in all things as it may . The very hope it selfe to mind I call , Which with the leaues and flowers came first of all , But after fled away : nor did September , Expect all this , and more I can remember , k k He meane th Leo the tenth of whom wee spake before . The day the Church was vnto Leo giuen , For spouse , and ( for her dowry ) endlesse liuing : When at that mariage , I so many saw , Of my best friends , who then to Rome did draw , On whom fair , scarlet honours were bestow'd : Whilst I liued still with my poore needy load , The Calends came , the Id●…s were past and gone , Yet I of any was not thought vpon . I could not be remembred , and yet I Remember this , and shall do till I die . l l An excellent saying of Ariosto , and a worthy precept to know the inconstancie of common friendship . O t' is most vaine , for man on man to trust , I le none beleeue , they all are most vniust . That day came down from heauen fond foolish hope And went to sorraine soiles , when first the Pope Imbrac't and kist me ( though it was vnmeet ) Whilest prostrate I fell downe before his feet . But afterwards , when I perceiu'd that nought , ( Saue air●… of words ) his fauours to me brought : And that experience taught me how to know , That onely shadowes from such grace did flow : I then began to giue despaire my hand , And plainly saw , I fisht on the drie land : And since that time I vow'd , none to beleeue , Nor more ( for what I cannot haue ) to greeue . m m He applieth his hasty posting to Rome , to be aduanced by Leo when hee was made Pope ( of which hee was deceiued ) and the suddaine rising of Leo and the Medici , & his chiefe friends , to the sprouting of this Gourd , which as it ro●…e hastily , so did it 〈◊〉 suddainly , and so did they all , Ariosto of his expect●…on , the Pope and 〈◊〉 his followers 〈◊〉 their gloue . There was a Gourd or Mellon , long agoe , That ( in a while shot vp ) so high did grow , As it a Peare-tree ( neighbour by ) so couerd , That with her leaues , his boughes were welny smotherd . Now this same Peare-tree on a morning chaunst To ope his eies , and round about him glaunst : For he had slept a mightie sleep and long , And seeing how this new fruit did h●…m wrong , Said vnto it : What art thou , and what chaunce , Makes thee so soone thy proud head to adu●…unce ? Where wert thou hid , when I fell first asleepe , That ore my head , thus proudly thou dost peepe ? The Gourd told him her name , & shew'd the Place , Where on the ground below she planted was : And that in three months space , it did attaine , Vnto that height in which it did remaine . And I ( replide the tree ) with migh●…ie feare , Haue hardly got this talenesse which I beare : Although this thirtie yeares I here haue growne , And haue all seasons and all weathers knowne . But thou which in the twinkling of an eie , Hast rais'd thy faire head euen into the skie . Assure thy selfe as thou art grown in hast , With selfe like speed , thy glories all shall wast . Euen so my hopes which made me posting come , My vaine fond hopes , which brought me first to Rome , Might well haue said , I came in fitter time , n n Although the chiefe of the house of Medici , had but ill fortune , which were Pope Leos brethren , yet Clement his kinseman , who within two yeares after succeeded him in the Papacie , aised vp againe ( although in a manner constrained therunto ) his familie in Florence ; for hee sent for his nephew Alexandre , out of Flaunders , where he followed the Emperour Char●…es the fift , who comming to Florence , proclai●…ed himself absolute Duke of that City . He married the Emperours base daughter , and carried himselfe very stoutly towards the people , insomuch as in the end hee was slaine by a kinseman of his owne , called Laurence di Medices ; who thereupon ●…ed to Venice , & was afterward slaine by certaine men , in hope of a reward which was proclaimed to be giuen to him that could take the 〈◊〉 either aliue or dead . Alexander being thus dispatcht , Cosmo the son of Iohn di Medices , was chosen Duke of the Florentins , who liued some 23-yeares after his election . He married Don Diego di Tolledos daughter , Viceroy of Naples , & had diuers children by her , of which Francesco succeded him , & after his death then Ferdinando his brother who was called Ferdinando di Medices , gran Du●…a di Tuscano . This Ferdinando married the daughter of the Duke of Lorrain , grandchild & executrix to Katherine di Medices , late Queene mother of Fraunce . Euen when the Medici were in their prime . That I did help them when they did remaine Exiles , and sought to bring them home againe : And that to make the Lambe like Leo proue , A Princely Lyon I did thither moue . o o This So●…na was a noble man of Romagna in Italy , allied to the Strozzi of Florence , and therefore one that could not brooke the greatnesse of the Medici . He that had held Gharles So●…nas braue spright , Would then perhaps haue said in open sight , p p When Leo the tenth was Pope ( as I said before ) hee vniustly expulst the Duke of Vrbin out of his lawfull estate , & placed his nephew Laurence in that Dukedo●…e , who had to wife through the fauour of Francis the French King , Lady Magdalena , nobly descended of the Duke of ●…on , with a yearely re●…enewe of ten thousand crownes , during her life . But this mariage proued but fatall vnto them both , for after hee had beene a while in France where he consummated his wedding , his wife died , and he within a while after followed her , leauing none other heire of his bodie lawfully begotten , then one young daughter called Katherine who as I said before , was maried to the French King Henry the second : she dyed in Anno 1588 , about the same time that the Duke of Guise was slaine in the Castel of Bloise by her sonne Henry the third , king of France and Poland . In this foresaid Katherine ended the direct and right line ( speaking of those which were lawfully begotten ) of Cosmo di Medices , surnamed the great . The aforenamed Laurence , was a man of great hope for his yeares , for his valour and learning , and was a great Mecenas and fauourer of the learned : he left a base sonne behind him called Alexander first Duke of Florence , who , as I said but euen now , was afterward sla●…ne by his owne kin●…man . When he had heard Lorenzo to be nam'd By stile of Duke , and with that title fam'd : q q He meaneth Don Iulian , Pope Leo brother , who died of a consuming and languishing disease in Florence , whose w●…fe Philib●…rta of Sauoy , although she was but yong , and with all passing 〈◊〉 , when her husband left her widowe , notwithstanding she had many great offers of diuerse Priaces which then liued : yet did she ( to the wondring of euery one ) giue ouer the world voluntarily , retiring her selfe into a Nunnery , which she her selfe had built , where she liued in deuotion vnto her dying daie . He to Duke Nemours would as much haue said , And not of scornefull eies haue stood afraid r r This was a noble man of Florence , a follower of the Medices , and by Leo made Cardinall . Vnto the Cardinall of Rosi , and s s He meaneth Barnard Di●…itio of Bibiena , who was a mightie man of wealth , and a true friend vnto the Medices in all their troubles , aiding them continually with men and money . A man of that good conscience , that Don Iulio Duke of Nemours made him his executor when he died , although as then he had two brethren aliue , which were Pope Leo , and Peter the eldest of the three . To Bibiena ( mightie rich in land ) Who had bene better much if he had staid t t Torsy was Bibienas cheefe house or place , not farre from Casentino . The Poet saith , he had beene better to haue liued quietly at home , then to haue beene Cardinall , because it cost him so much in assisting the Medices in their troubles , and again●… , because hee did not long enioy that honour , but dyed . At Torsy , then a red hat to haue swaid . u u Contesina is the name of Leo the tenths mother . He would haue said vnto Contesina , x x This was the King of France kinswoman , & wife to Laurence the Popes nephew , of whom wee spake before . To Magdalena ( beautious at that day ) y y This was Alfonzina the Pope●… sister , & mother vnto Laurence di Medices , vnto whom Leo graunted a donation of the profits , and exactions of the indulgences in many places in Germany , vpon which occasion Martin Luther began first to take exception against the Pope for the same , and so consequently against the popish religion . Vnto the daughter and the Mother in lawe , z z The Co●…onation of Leo was so sumptuous and costly , that many tooke exceptions against the same , as in Guychardine more at large apeareth . And all that house which euery one then saw Orecome with ioy , euen thus I say , he wold Talke to the worlde with courage strong and bold , Thy similie most properly applide , May be to them which doe with greatnesse bide : For as their ioies aboue all ioies did runne , So shall they quickly fade and be vndone . a a All that were at the coronation of Leo in their iollitie ( I meane the greatest persons ) died within a while after , first Peter the elder brother was drowned , ●…ulian the second consumed to death shortly after , Laurence their ●…ephew died of a languishing disease in France , and his wife a li●…le before him , left her life there also , so likewise Contesina the Popes mother , Alfonzina his sister , the Cardinals of Rossi and Bib●…na , yea and the Pope Leo himselfe , all these I say dyed one after another in a short space , as namely in the space of eight yeares and lesse . All men must die , their time indures not euer , And this strong fate can be eschewed neuer : That Leo also shall his life resigue Ere Troies first founder shall into the signe Turne eight times : this as gospell is most true , For so each thing did afterwards ensue . But to spend much idle talke herein , I say , I first of all did then begin , To giue ore all my more then foolish hope , When I got nothing of my best knowne Pope . If Leo gaue my fortunes nothing , then T is vaine to hope for gaine from other men . ( Deare Lord ) thou must with other hookes and draught Fish for me , if thou looke I shall be caught : But if perforce thou wilt haue me to goe , Thy will be done , and I am prest thereto : Yet honour shall not moue me , Riches lesse , For neither of them both I would possesse : Honor I scorne , for t is meere vanity , And riches mix not with my desteny . b b He intreateth ( rather thé to be troubled any more ) to be rid first of his liuetenancy of Graffignana , the country beeing so full of factions and diuisions , & such a number of rebels & Banditi swarming euery where , as he was in a maner wearie of his life . Say rather I shall leaue this p●…ace I keepe , Nor longer with these barbarous people sleepe , More rude then are the rocks wherin they dwell , So rude their maners are , and wratl●… so fell , Say , I shall not be troubled , some to fine , Some to exile to kill or to confine : Whilst I complaine that force doth ouersway All reason , yet that force I must obay . Tell me I shall haue leasure and fit time To talke vnto the Muses in sweete rime , And midst faire groaues and arbors to deuise The strength of verse and rarely poetize . c c These are the names of certaine learned men , then abiding in Rome , and familiar friends and acquaintances with our Poet. Tell me , with Sadolet , with Bembo , Iouio , With Molza , Vida and with Blosio ; With Tibaldo and Pontanus , and the rest , I may liue at mine ease , most happy blest , Taking for guide , which of them best doth please me : Or altogether iointly fit and case me , Whilst they to me old Romes antiquitie , Discribe at large with graue authority : d d Circus was a place like our tik-yards , where the ancient Romanes vsed to runne with Charriots and horses for certaine games or prises . Saying here Circus was , and here did stand Forum Romanum , and here on this hand e e

Saburra was a streete most of all frequented in Rome , by reason there dwelled many Curtezans , for Vbi cadauer ibi Coru●… and therefore like enough to giue occasion of much quarell and misrule amongst youths , as appeareth by Iuue●…all and Mortiall in these verses .

Fame , non nimium bone puelle , Quales in media sedent Saburra . Saburra stoode , this Sacer 〈◊〉 was , And now by Vestaes Temple you do passe : Tell me , I cannot any thing indite , ( Nor of what subiect best shall please me write ) But I may counsaile haue and take aduise , If any doubt doth in the Author rise : That out of Latine , Tuscan , or of Greeke , I may translate , or any pleasure seeke . Besides the number great thou maist me tell , Of worthy ancient bookes which doe excell : f f One of the rarest libraries in the world , built in the Popes pallace of Saint Peter in Rome by Sistus Quartus , and much augmented by Sistus Quintus , it is thought there are not so fewe as ten thousand bookes little & great within the same . All which Pope Sistus through the world of late , Did gather for the good of publick state , Whilst this rare library each one may vse , And what him list may from it cul and chuse . Now when such proffers thou shalt make to me , Of noble worth , account and dignitie , And yet this Iourney I refuse nere-lesse , Thou then maist say that frenzy doth possesse , My troubled braine , and melancholy fits , Hath brought distemperature vnto my wits . But I , instead of answering thee , wil play g g This Emiliut was a noble Roman , who hauing maried a ma●…ailous faire & beautifull yong Lady , put her away , and being blamed of his frie●…ds for so doing , held out his foote vnto them , saying , see you this my shooe how fine it is made , how well it sits vpon my foote , and how handsome it is for me , and yet none of you all knoweth in what parte of my foote it wringeth and pincheth m●… eu●…n so my wife , although as you say , she is faire , courteous , wittie and well spoken , yet none of you know in what sort she offendeth me . As did Emillius once , who forth did lay His foote vnto his friend , saying you see How cleane my shoe is made , how neate , how curiously , And yet for all this , little dost thou know , Where it doth wring me , or doth gall my toe . He takes me from my selfe that doth remoue My bodie from the natiue soile I loue : For being absent thence , I cannot liue , Yea , lay I in Ioues lap , I yet should grieue : And should I not be daily one of those , Who for their morning walks wi●…h pleasure goes h h He meaneth the two statues in the market place of Ferrara as you go to the Domo , ( which is the Cathedrall Church of the same Citie ) the one of Lionel , and the other of Bozre , two Princes of the house of Esta . Betweene the Domo of Ferrara , and Those famous statues which richly stand , Of my two noble Marquesses , then I Should die with greefe , to want that liberty , And leaner would my visage be then his , Whose lips the water and the fruit doth kisse : Yet hath no power either of both to taste , But pines with hunger , and away doth waste . Francis the first French king that bare that name , One day by fortune vnto Paris came , And by a wealthy Burgesse feasted was , Whose sumptuous cheare and bounty did surpasse . Now whilst the King amongst his minions sate , And merrily discour'st of euery state : Each one began to tell some wondrous thing , And mongst the rest one told vnto the king , That at that time within the Cittie was An old man liuing who by gesse did passe The age of fourescore yeares , yet nere was seene , Out of the walles of Paris to haue beene . The King admiring at this tale , straight sent For this old man to come incontinent , And of him did demand if true it was , That he beyond those walles did neuer passe : Or whether feare or loue became the cause , Which his affections to such straitnes drawes ? The old man thus replide , So please your grace , I was borne , bred , and brought vp in this place , And now I am fourescore and ten aboue , In all which time my foot did neuer moue Out of the citties gates , though men of worth , Haue by intreaty sought to get me forth : So that was not command , but mine owne will , Which in this towne hath thus confind me still : Besides no motion in my minde hath moued , From whence the countries sight should be beloued . Well then replide the King , since this long space Thou freely with thy friends hast held this place , Henceforth I charge thee on the paine of death , Thou not presum'st so long as thou hast breath , To looke beyond these walles , for I intend , As thou hast liued , so thou shalt make an end . The poore old man , who neuer long'd before To go out of the towne or out of dore , As long as it was in his libertie : Now that he saw he to the contrary Commanded was , with a most strange desire , To see the country he is set on fire : But seeing by constraint he thus was tide Against his will , for very greefe he dide . Noble Pistophilo , no such minde I hould At this old man did , but I rather would Liue in Ferrara euer from my birth , Then any forraine nation of the earth : Yet should I be compeld to leaue that place , And goe to Rome it would be lesse disgrace , Then to continue in this hellish soile , Where nothing is but trouble and turmoile : But if my Lord intend me any fauour , O let him call me home , or send me rather i i Argento & Bondend are Cities belonging to the Dukedome of Ferrara , to which Ariosto was often sent by the Duke , & many times vp and downe about his busines , which hee 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ●…ry much . Vnto Argento , Bondena , or where He can deuise , so I may not liue here . If needs I must be made a toiling beast , I faine would haue my burthen with the least : No packhorse , but a foote cloath would I be , For they but one man carie easily . To serue the Duke my soule did neuer grudge , Onely I greeue to be a common drudge . But now if you demand the reason why , I loue mine owne home thus exceedingly , I will as willingly the same confesse , As I my grieuous sins doe more or lesse , Plainely discharge to my Confessors eares , When at the shrift he all mine errours heares . And yet I know , that thus replie you can , And say : loe heere a perfit well stai'd man , Of fourescore nine yeares at the least , and yet , Of youths worst loosnesse he must haue a fit . k k Hee frankly confesseth that hee cannot liue except hee enioy the company of his Mistresse . So much to pleasure he his minde doth giue , That without wantonesse he cannot liue : But it is well for me , that I can hide My selfe within this valley where I bide , And that an hundred miles thy purer eie , Cannot extend to see my vanity : Or whether pale or red , I chaunce to looke , When with escapes I suddainly am tooke . For then thou shouldst perceiue , I blusht for shame , Although my letter doe not shew the same : l l The f●…rst a notable old mother baud , and the other a fam●…us Courtezan of Ferrara , in those daies . And thou wouldst thinke that neither old dame Amber , Nor her young daughter ( good stuffe in a chamber ) For all their varnish , looked halfe so red : Or that old father Canon lately dead , When he let fall amidst the market place , A bottle full of wine ( with foule disgrace ) Which from a Frie●… he had but stolne before . Besides ( which were about him found ) two more . Were I but with thee now a while , I doubt Thy loue would with my folly haue about : And with a cudgell , thou wouldst beat me well , To heare these frantike reasons which I tell , And do alleage to liue where as thou art , For were I with thee , I would neuer part : But nature and my duty bids me serue My Prince and country , as they do deserue , m m He meaneth his Mistresse , whom he saith he had rather attendon , then vpon any Prince in the worl●… Although there is another whom I would Rather attend on , if get leaue I could . Great Lord , thou art a Courtier by thy place , And maiest command for thou hast speciall grace : The Dukes chieefe Secretary thou onely art , And mak'st him blest that liues within thy hart . n n This Pistofilo , Secretary to Alphonso , Duke of Ferrara , was a man low of stature , and little in body , but of so excellent a wit , and happy memory , that none liued in those daias like vnto him . Besides hee was of a sweet conuersation , and an humble carriage towards all men , inso much as being of the Dukes 〈◊〉 Counsell , hee was greatly fauoured and beloued , as wel of his Prince as of the people . Duke Alphonso , would merrily say , that what through his little Pi●…ce , the Bo●…re and his strong Castell Barletto ( alluding to the name of his , Secretary , which was Bon●…enter Po●… and his chiefe General of all his forces , called Galeazo Barletto , a famous Soldier ) he thought himselfe st●…ong inough to encounter with any of his neighbour Princes . This Secretary was an inward friend and of great acquaintance with Nicholas 〈◊〉 , and Peter A●…tine who 〈◊〉 in the 〈◊〉 of Henry the eight , of famous memory King of England . He died in Ferrara 〈◊〉 his 〈◊〉 with solemne pompe was conuaicd to be buried at Modena , where he was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 being interred in the Monasterie of S. Francis , there where his monument is at this day to be ●…eene . Although thou little in thy stature be , The great'st in Court are glad to crouch to thee : And truly worthy art thou of thy place , Since to all vertues thou dost giue all grace . Wisely thou dost , for better t' is the loue Of people , then their hatred to approue : Chiefly where Princes as their fancies range , Their fauorites do often chop and change . But yet for all these caps and bended knees , Which done vnto thee of all sorts thou see 's : Sir ( by your leaue ) for all your gallant glory , You sometimes feele what makes you sad and sory . Oft do you wish , deny it if you can , That you might liue like to a priuate man . Courts haue their crosses , kingly crownes their cares Who merriest liues , best of all men fares . Vnto no Embassie do me preferre , But to my Mistresse , I would go to her . o o Pisto●…lo performed this request of A●…iosto , for within a while after , he had libertie to come to Ferrara , where he liued quietly , and in great credit , vntill his dying day . Intreat the Duke I may come home againe , And that s the boone I craue of all thy paine : Let him but me vnto Ferrara call , And thou shalt haue my thankes , life , soule and all . FINIS .

Notes, typically marginal, from the original text

Notes for div A21074-e650

Notes for div A21074-e5910

Notes for div A21074-e12230

Notes for div A21074-e18910

Notes for div A21074-e26600

Notes for div A21074-e31020

Notes for div A21074-e37660