The Amours of Pharamond , First King of France .

THEY who apply themselves to the reading or History , to the end they may reap Benefit by it , ought to understand the true Causes of the most remarkable Events : and this is that which cannot be known , without being perfectly acquainted with the Intreagues of the Courts , wherein they were acted . For many times , what is attributed to Policy , has no other foundation then an erroneons Indulgence of Princes to their Mistresses , or their Favourites : And at the same time that they were believ'd ●o have in their Thoughts nothing more then the welfare of their Dominions , t was only a burning Desire to revenge the quarrels wherein the Amours had engag'd 'em . This is that which will be found in the sequel of this History , wherein I have endeavour'd , as much as lay within my Power , to clear and give light to matters of ●act that seem'd obscure , in regard the contemporary Historians , were either ignorant , or willing to conceal the weaknesses of those Princes , under whose Reigns they , liv'd . I have very little to say of our first Kings , not only because the Authors disagree among themselves , touching the most memorable Events , but also because the Princes themselves , being oblig'd to be continually on Horseback , for the preservation and establishment of their Dominions , never minded Love , but only as a trifling business to pass away time , and were ignorant of the Delicacies of that passion , which is the refinement of all Pleasure .

All Historians agree , that we ought begin with . * * Anne . 418. Pharamond , when we go about to recount the extended series of Kings , that have rul'd the ●●ourishing Kingdom of France ; which is justify'd by a Medal that represents the Ceremony of his Coronation . We shall say nothing of the Atchievements of that Prince , which relate to the story of his Reign , because they nothing concern our subject . And for his Amours , we are ignorant of 'em , as also of the very name of his Wife ; and tho' It be very probable that such a Prince as he , could not chuse but be engag'd in amorous Adventures , worthy to have been transferr'd to Posterity ; yet in regard Historians make no mention of 'em , neither can we deliver any thing of certainty concerning 'em . No body doubts , but what is said by the Author of the Romance , which hears the Title of Pharamond , was very ingeniously invented : and thither it is that we refer all those who are Lovers of Fictions . 'T is concluded on all hands , that Pharamond was He , who first introduc'd into France the Sallck Law , which excludes Women from the Succession to the Crown . At length , after he had establish'd his Empire by several Conquests , and Reign'd about 14 years , he dy'd , and left his Son Clodion to succeed him .

The Amours of Clodion .

CLODION , the Son of Pharamond , was call'd by the French to succeed his Father . He was surnamed the Hairy , because he wore his Locks very long ; which was at that time a mark of free Dominion . But we are no more inform'd of his amorous Intreagues , then of those of Pharamond . Historians only report , that the Queen , his Wife , walking one day upon the Sea sto●e , was surpriz'd by a Monster , that flung himself of a suddain out of the Salt water , and that she had a Son by him , who was call'd Meroveu● , and was his Successor . 'T is thought this Fable was invented by Meroveus , to conceal the loose Amours of his Mother , and to imprint Respect and Awe into the Minds of his Subjects , by attributing to himself a birth so extraordina●y .

The Amours of Childerick .

* * Anno 459 , or 460. CHILDERICK , at his first coming to the Crown by no means follow'd the example of his Father M coveus's Virtues . For , he debauch'd the Wives and Daughters of his Subjects , so notoriously and openly , that he drew the Hatred of the whole Kingdom upon him , and constrain'd 'em to depose him . Upon which , he retir'd into Turingia , where King Basin at that time reign'd , Now , in regard he was of a very amorous Complexion , and for that his misfortune had not cool'd the heat of his , lustful Desires , he soon became enamour'd of the King of Turingia's Wife , who was a most lovely Princesse . As for himself , he was handsome in his Person ▪ and very pleasing in his Conversation ; so that it was not long before he reap'd the fruit of his Sighs . The Queen Basina corresponded with his . Affection in a most tender manner ; insomuch that his banishment became a pleasure to him . But at length his Subjects having recall'd him home to the re-possession of his Throne , his Love was forc'd to give way to his Ambition , and he was constrain'd to quit his Fair Queen . Who not being able to raze from her Heart the remembrance of Childerick , follow'd him into France , where he was re-sett●d in his Kingdom , neither regarding her Honour , nor her Husband . Childerick , admiring to see her , ask'd her what reason had induc'd her to leave her Husband Basin , to follow him ? Thy Modesty answer'd she , Thy Valour , and thy noble Carriage , have in a manner constrain'd me to come and seek thee for my Husband . I am only in love with thy Virrtue ; and if I knew where to fi●d a person of greater Vitue than t●y self . I would not spare fo● any paints to enjoy him . Childerick , charm'd with her Language , and enclin'd as well by his own passion , forgot the Duties of Friendship , and the Protection which King Basia had so generously afforded him in his Misfortunes . The pleasures which he hop'd for , in the possession of Queen Basina , would not permit him to hesitate one moment , nor to ponder : upon the injury , the greatest he could do the Prince his Benefactor . 'T is said , that having desir'd Childerick not to lye with her the first Night of their Nuptials , she went three several times to desire him not to be afraid , but to observe the Apparitions that should present themselves before his Eyes ; and that , by virtue of her occult Magick , she shew'd him the first time . Unicorns , Lions , and Leopards ; The second time Bears and Wolves ; and the third time Dogs and Cats : to signifie the various manners and conditions of the Princes that should descend from that Marriage . But i● we observe the ardent Affection which that Queen had for Childerick , 't is enough to convince us , that this same Story was no more then a Fable invented at random . For t is not probable that her vehement desires would permit her to employ her time so ill , as to lye alone , while her Lover was taken up with gazing and musing upon pretended Apparitions .

The Amours of Clovis , the First Christian King .

Anno 485. CLOVIS who succeeded Childerick his Father , desirous to devolve and establish his Authority upon his Legitimate Offspring , ( for he had had already by one of his Mistresses a natural Son , whose name was Thierry , ) cast his Eyes upon Cletilda , the Daughter of another Childeri● , and Neice to Gondebaut , King of Burgundy , who was a very beautifull Princess , and by the Marriage of whom he might reap so much the greater Advantage , because it afforded him an opportunity to aggrandize his Dominions on Burgundy side . For Gondebaut , after he had defeated his Brother , and cut the Throat of their Wives , and male Issue , let the Daughter live , and retain'd Clotilda at Court , where she was so strictly lookt after , that they watcht even her very smiles , and all the meanest her Actions , not , permitting any Man to come near her . But Clovis's Love and Ambition found out a way to deceive her Guards . Aurelian , a Confident of Clovis , his Master , took his time to go into Burgundy , when Gondebaut was in Italy with Thierry , and found a way to speak to the Princess , by disguising himself in the habit of a ●eggar : for in that disguise he waited for her at the Church-door and begg'd an Alms of her ; which when she stretch'd forth her hand to give him , he squeez'd and kiss'd it after so passionate a manner , that she presently conjectur'd there m●st be some secret Mystery in the Beggers carriage . Having therefore found out a way to discourse him , she listen'd to his Propositions , and receiv'd the Nuptial Ring that Clovis sent her , with this condition , that he should turn Christian . The Prince being thus assur'd of the Affection of his Mistriss , sent a magnificent Embassy to Gondebaut , on purpose to congratulate his good success and demand his Niece in Wedlock ; who ●●ous'd himself , under pretence of his Religion . But Aurelian , who was Clovis's Ambassador , promis'd to remove that obstacle out of the way ▪ so that Gendebaut having no other exception to make , and not knowing which way decently to avoid it was forc'd to comply with his demand .

Deuterie , Theodebert , the King of Austratia's Mistress .

CLovis's Children having divided the Kingdom of F●●●ce bet weul●om , Austrasia sell to Theoderie est ●●●el Prince ; this Dominions were of a large 〈…〉 b● o●p● che●do not only Lorrain , but the ●o●i Countries and part of Germany , which was the ancient ●●tismony of : our Kings and ●eath was far as Bauaria Theod. had but one only Son , whose name was Theadeb●rt , a Prince both stood and ambitious , and medicated nothing but great designed . His Father b●t bought himself of Marrying him betimes , and to match him vnto such an alliance ; as might be able to assist him in the preservation of the Dominions which he should heare him alter his Death . To that purpose he ●●st his Eyes upon Wisgard , the Daughter of Woc●in , King of the Lombards Wa●●o● as a Parent Prince of his possess'd a good part of Italy , and who was able to assist him to wage W●● with the other ●●nus of Clovit , if any of 'em , not contented with his share should attempt to fall upon Austria . Theoderic having taken his Resolution , sent Ambassadors to Wachon , to demand his Daughter , and having obtain'd his desire , he affianc'd her to his Son ; but the Marriage was not consummated , whither it were that Theodebert had any reluctancy to the Match , or that Theoderic growing jealous of his Son's Ambition , would not entrust him with an oppurtunity to make himself 〈…〉 by that Alliance . All the People of Austras●●● were charm'd with Theod●bert's Vertues , and they spoke so highly in his praise that the King was somwhat disturb'd at it , and resolv'd to remove him from the Court. To which purpose , an opportunity offer'd it self , which he was unwilling to 〈◊〉 escape him . The S●●viant , who possessed Spain , finding themselves over powr'd by the 〈◊〉 who made it their business to 〈…〉 of the Kingdom , sollicited the King of ●●●trasia to fall upon Narb●n●ois● Gaul , to the end , the Enemy might be compell'd to ●epass the 〈◊〉 , in order to defend that Province , which at that time belong'd 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Theodori● discover'd to his Son the Preposals that had ●een made to him , and ask'd him whither he would command the Army , which 〈…〉 to send into 〈◊〉 the Young Be●●●e was 〈…〉 , that his Other offer'd 〈…〉 opportunity to exercise his Valour ▪ and declar'd that 〈…〉 ready too set forward as 〈…〉 few Days after 〈…〉 with a powerful Army , and 〈…〉 Burgundy and the 〈…〉 to his entering into 〈…〉 in all the Towns that he did 〈…〉 Army , and after 〈…〉 strong 〈…〉 Nimes and Montpelier , to come and 〈…〉 his Camp upon the Banks of the ●i●er Or● near ●o 〈◊〉 .

Deuterie , Wise to the Governor of that City , laythen at his Castle of Cup●●●ic , which some call Cabrieret , but others more justly Capost●● . in regard that Village stands more near to Beziers , whereas Cabrieres adjoyns to Nimes . She would fain have goe away to her . Husband with her Daughter about ten Years of Age , but She had not time , for they were both taken by the aven● Couriers of Theodebert's Army , and presented to the Prince . He was charm'd with their Beauty and after he had made a thousand excuses for the ill usage they had met with , he surrender'd up to them his own Tent , and besought 'em to make use of it . In the Evening , he went and paid a visit to Douterie , and told her , she was at her own Liberty , and that she should have a Convey to guard her to Nimes when she pleas'd . But Deu●erie , who was not insensible of the goodly presence and Virtues of Theodebert , was not over desir●●● to part with him so soon ; and therefore she made him answer , that she would not wrong his Civility , since it was not just be sho●●● deprive himself of a Pledge that might he worth him the Conquest of Ri●iers This Language was accompany'd with so passionate a look , that Theodebert might easily perceive that an Incitement more perswasive then Generositie , made him refuse a happiness that was to be esteem'd and prefer'd above all other cares of War , and therefore prepar'd to attack ●etiers . Which Deuterie having notice of , gave him to understand , that she could not without a more then ordinary Grief behold him , shed the Blood of a People , among whom she was Born ; and that during the Siege , she should be in continual fear for the Person of her Husband , who upon all occasions , would verture himself as far as the meanest Soldier ; which Reasons seem'd so plausible , that Theodebert submitted . Tho' Deutetie all the while was sway'd by a far different mo●●● , as being 〈◊〉 afraid of her Husband's Death then of the effects of his anger . Had be discover'd h●●●eve , he might have been precipi●●ted to some 〈◊〉 Viol●●ce , which made Deute●ie desire , that Theodebert would remove to some farther distance , that might deprive him of the knowledge of their intreague , and she understood to 〈◊〉 to made the best of the indulgence of her Pathronate Lover , that she oblig'd him not only to remo●● from ●●ziers , but to quit Laug●●do● , and take up his Quarters in Province . They stopt at Arles , where their chiefest Divertisement were ●alls ●●●ing , and Tournaments Lo●e having lull'd the Valour of the young Prince ●●eep . However Witigez , King the G●b● not being a little alaturn'd at the Conquest which he had made , sort an Ambassador to him with an offer of all Provence , provided he would joyn his Arme with the Goths against Belas●rint ; whom the Emperor Justinian had sent to drive ●em out of Spain , To which Theodebert made answer that his Father being alive , he could not determin any thing positively , in reply to that Proposal , but that he would dispatch a Messenger to him , to know his pleasure . Soon after , the Courier , instead of bringing back to Theodebert the answer which he expected , brought him news , that the King his Father was Dead , and that there was just Reason to fear , that his Uncles would make themselves Masters of his Dominions , if he did not speedily return to oppose their Designs . There , upon , Theodebert , immediately set forward from Arles , taking along with him not only Deuterie , then big with Child of Prince Theobald , who succeeded him , 〈◊〉 the Lady's Daughter , whom she had by the Governor of R●●er . Nevertheless , before his departure , he assur'd Witige●'s , Embassador 〈…〉 soon as he had secur'd the Possession of the Kingdom , he would do what his Master should desire .

But no soone● was 〈◊〉 Crown'd King of Austrasia , but the people press'd him to Marty Wisg●●d , laying before him , that since he had a design to w●ge War with Justinian , it was him interest , to procure the friendship of the Lombard King , since it was to his power to set open or stop up the Poss●● , through which the Emperors Army was 〈◊〉 march . These Reasons seem'd to be of great weight , and would have prevail'd upon The●●●bert , had he been less in Love . But he was so intoxicated with his Passion , for Deuterie , that his Love clos'd up his Eyes against all other Considerations , and to free himself from the importunities of those that prest him to solemnize the Nuptials , so much desir'd with Wisgard , he publickly espous'd Deuterie , with great care concealing the Truth of her Husband 's being alive .

And now his Passion no longer meeting any obstacle to combat , began to languish , and he yielded to the pressing importunities of Witig●● , who earnestly sollicited him to pass the Alps , and make War upon the Romans . To that end , he set forward from Me●● , tho' Deuterie made use of all her Artifices to stop him , and marching into Italy with Ten Thousand Men , he joyn'd Forces with Dor-ju , who commanded the Army of the Goths , and thus united they took Milan . Many other were the events of this War , which I pass over in silence , as being nothing to our purpose . But at length the Pestilence having ruin'd the greatest part of Theodeberts Army , he repass'd the Alps , and return'd to M●●● .

During his absence , Deuterie's Daughter , Gosminda's Features were arriv'd to that perfection , and the colour of her Complexion ▪ was become so fresh and lively , that he became d●zl'd with the sight of her , not could he conceal , his admiration from Deuteries piercing Eye● , who perceiv'd that their glances met and that her Daughter vaunted in private the Conquest she had won . She carefully observ'd the two Lovers , and being convinc'd , that Gossmi●'d corresponded with the passion of her Faithless Husband , she resolv'd to be reveng'd● but in such a manner , that she might not be accus'd of having contributed to the Deat of the Young Princess .

The Court was gone to spend some few Days at Verdune , and the ●●●nd Walk was usually upon the Banks of the Me●●● , which is very deep in that part Kings , knew not then the use of Coaches , nor Magnificent Calashes , but only little Chariots , slightly cover'd over , wherein no more then one Person could sit , and drawn by Oxen. The jealous Deuterie therefore procur'd one of these Chariots to be prepar'd for Gosswind , and order'd it so , that a pair of Wild Oxen , such as had never felt the Burden of the Yoak , and kept on purpose without Water for several Days were put to draw it ; so that the Young Princess had no sooner taken her seat in the Chariot , but the furious Beasts carry'd her a full Gallop toward the River , and eager to quench their thirst , flung themselves into the bottomless and rapid Stream with the Chariot at their Heels , where they were presently drown'd , and the Princess swallow'd up in the merciless Gulph .

Theodebert was ignorant for some time , that the Death of Gosswind had happen'd so unfortunately , by the Connivance of her Mother ; but when he came to understand it , he look't upon the foulness of the crime with so much detestation , that he could no longer endure the Person who had committed it . Thereupon his chief Ministers , seeing him so well inclin'd , took their advantage of it , and lay'd before him so feelingly the wrong which he had done his Honour in preferring a Lascivious Woman before Wisgard , whose Patience and other Virtues were admir'd by all the World , that he submitted to their Councils . In short , he thrust Deuterie into a Nunnery , and espous'd Wisgard , who enjoy'd her new Dignity but a very little while , for that she died within six Weeks after . Theodebert was extreamly afflicted for the loss of her , yet not being able to reconcile himself to Deuterie , but leaving her in her retirement without so much as thinking any more of her , he spent all his time in Hunting , which was the occasion of his Death , for he was mortally wounded by a wild Bull that had broke from the Toils , wherein he had been entangl'd , as if he had design'd to revenge the Death of Gosswind , whose Ruin he had been the cause of , by his incestuous Love .

Clotaire's Incestuous Amour .

Anno 560 , CLOTAIRE reunited the Kingdom of France , which had been divided , after the Death of Clo●is . He had Marry'd Isgend , of whose Family or place of Nativity , the Historians speak not a word , However , she had a Sister that far exceeded her in Beauty , for whom she besought the King to provide a Husband , and to that purpose , sent for her to the Court ; but Clotaire found her so amirable , that he could not endure to part with her . He took so great a delight in her Conversation , that at length he perceiv'd in himself an affection for her much more tender then it became him to have for the Sister of his Wife . For some time therefore he contended with his Incestuous , passion , and strove to vanquish it : But finding at length , that the more he withstood it , the more is encreas'd he resolv'd to speak to her . Heregoud trembled at the King 's first imparting his mind to her , and for some time , avoided coming into his presence , but afterwards she grew less scrupulous , and accustom'd her self to listen to his Allurements , and in matters of Love , when a Virgin begins once to hearken , she is not far from droping into the share ; so that when she once forceas'd to be deterr'd with the horor of the Crime , that accompany'd the King's Love , she soon surrendred her Fortress , and became the Mother of Chilperick , who Reign'd after his Father in Normandy , and Paris . But when Clotaire had satiated his Lust , that same disgust , that usually follows Enjoyment , open'd his eyes , and made him sensible of the wrong he had done Ingoud , by violating the conjugal Vow , that he had made her , in devoting himself to her Sister . Thereupon he submitted to the Remonstrances and Reprimands of Pope John III. who constrain'd Heregoud to betake her self to a Nunnery . Some time after , the King having buri'd the Queen his Wife , espous'd Chinsiu or Chimsen for the Historians are not agreed about her Name .

The Amours of Cherebert , King of Paris .

AFTER the Death of Clotaire , the Kingdom of France was divided , and Paris fell to Chereberts share , who was the eldest . He had marry'd Ingeberge , 〈◊〉 Princess extraordinary Virtue , and who Lov'd him tenderly ; she saw to her grief , how the King spent all his time in Hunting , and never came near her till late in the Night , of which she made most grievous complaints to Meroflede and Marco●efe , her Maids of Honour , in which the most consided . They were Sisters , and tho' they were of no higher extraction then the Daughters of a C●mber of Wooll , yet the Queen disdain'd not their attendance about her Person , because they were endow'd with particular Talents . Marcouefe had spent her Youthful Years in a Convent , and had also enter'd into Vows , but in regard she pretended a constraint upon her , she had ●●●●●●ded her self under the Queen's protection . She 〈◊〉 learnt all sorts of Needle-work in the Cloister , and she had a lively Wit , polish'd with much Learning . She was serious , yet she had so many charms in her conversation , that it was a difficult matter to be tyr'd with her Company . On the other side , Meroflede was of a lively frolick disposition , danc'd with a goodly grace , sung most charmingly , and plaid upon several Instruments . Now these two Young Lady 's propos'd to the Queen , as the neatest course she could take , to divertise the King with courtly ●easts and Banquets , thereby to retain him longer in his Palace . They also study'd a sort of Pastoral , wherein Meroflede prov'd so successful , that the ●ing gave her a thousand praises ; he took so much delight in her conversation , and found the Air of it , so quaint and delicate , that he could by no means forsake her company : Insomuch , that he very seldom went a Hunting , unless it were upon a set match . Meroflede , who was Ambitiois , forgot the Duty which she ow'd her Mistress and ply'd all her Artifices with so much diligence , to keep possession of the King's Heart , that a length , be obtain'd the utmost of his desires . But being a wanton , as she was , she could not be content with one single , tho' so noble a Conquest : She would be continually ensnaring with her purloining glances , all that were so daring as to seek their Thraldom in her looks , Marconefe , who was no less Beautiful , nor no less witty then her Sister , tho' more reserv'd Stomack'd a preferment , that seem'd so injurious to her . However for some time she stifled her Vexation in her Breast , not breaking her mind to any person whatever : But when she saw the Meroflede let her self loose to others , besides the King , she discover'd her Infidelity to him , after so discreet and so ingenious a manner , as if her intention had been only for her sisters sake to reform the Errors of her ill conduct . On the otherside , Cherebert lodg'd in Marconefe's Breast , all his vexations and sorrows for Merofledes wanton , and no less wandring humour , and found so much Judgment in her arguments and her councils , that he thought he might be far more happy with her , then with her Sister ; and therefore he attempted to gain her affection , wherein the speed of his success was answerable to the eagerness of his pursuit . Marconefe spar'd for nothing , for indeed , her emulation was so great to deprive her sister of Cherebert's Heart , that she prevented his desires , to the end , she might compass her ends . Meroflede on the other side , was soon sensible of this alteration , and did all she could to regain his affections . Cherebert gave ear to her reproaches , bore 'em patiently , and endeavour'd to justify himself ; and finding charms in both , unwilling to loose either , he made it his business to perswade one Sister that he was intirely devoted to her ; and the other , that she was the only Mistress of his affection .

All this while he was so enthral'd to his passion for these two Ladies , that he neglected the Government of his Dominions , and altogether slighted Ingoberge . And she , unfortunate Queen , acknowledg'd soon the fault , she had committed , in drawing off the King from the pleasure of Hunting , to make him sensible of amorous delights , and found her self more unhappy then she was when the King forsook her company , only to wage War against the wild Beasts of the Forest . So that after she had in vain attempted to reclaim him by her caresses and her complaisance , she had recourse to St. Germain , at that time Bishop of Paris , who had gain'd a high reputation for his piety , and begg'd of him to lay before the King the wrong he did her , in making her such ill returns of her kindness . But the remonstrances of that Prelate , were so far from moving him , that they rather serv'd to render the Person of Ingoberge more hateful to him . For from that time forward , he look't upon her only as a jealous Woman , that sought to interrupt his pleasures , and whose revenge was to be dreaded , so that he redoubl'd his scorn of her , and oblig'd her to retire into a Convent . After the Queen's retirement , the jealousie of ambition intermixing with that of Love , the two Sisters were emulous each to possess , alone , the King's inclinations , and dispose of all his Favours ; and their embitterment augmented to that degree , that it enrag'd 'em to a quarrel , which made a great noise and divided all the Court . The King in vain endeavour'd to reconcile and perswade 'em to live peaceably together , at least to keep an outward correspondence of civility , if they could not love each other as sisters . But at length dishearten'd by their transportments , and despairing of doing any good , he sell again to his old sport of Hunting , and left 'em at leisure , to quarrel among themselves .

One day , being separated from his Train , and very Thirsty , Anno 524. he alighted close by a Fountain , for want of a glass he took up the Water with the hollow of his hand , at what time a young Shepherdess perceiving him , drew near him and presented him an earthen Cup. The King took it , and observing in her Face , all the agreements of proportion and colour that Nature could afford , without the help of Art , he ask'd her name , to which she answer'd , that her name was Dandelind , and that she was a Farmers Daughter , who had a House hard by adjoyning . Upon that , Cherbert declared who he was , and told her withal , that he would carry her to Court , she excus'd her felf with an ingenuity that charm'd him , alledging that Obedience and Duty which she ow'd her Father ; and the Grief it would be to her to live absented from him . Goe then , and fetch him hither , reply'd the King , and I will carry , ye along with me both together . Immediately away ran the Shepherdess , and soon after return'd with the Peasant , whom she call'd her Father . Presently the good old Man , who understood by his Daughter , that it was the King who sent for him , sell at his Feet , and begg'd to know his pleasure . 'T is my pleasure , reply'd the King , to make your Fortune , and your Daughter Happy : come to morrow morning to me , when I rise . The Country-man fail'd not to attend upon him , and he made him Keeper of his Palace . Nor did the King believe he should meet with any reluctancy in the Shepherdess ; but she shew'd him ●o much Prudence and Virtue in her Conduct , that he was afraid of offering any violence , and rather thought her worthy of a Crown . And the death of Ingoberge , that happen'd soon after , afforded him an opportunity to fulfil his desire . So that he espous'd Dandelind , and married his two Mistresses to two great Lords of his Court . Cherbert , however , could not continue faithful to his new Queen : for he involv'd himself in so many Courtly intreagues , that the young Queen , who lov'd him intirely , dy'd for grief , within two years after her Marriage . Cherebe●t after that , Marry'd Theogedild , who was so far from being troubl'd at the infidelity of her inconstant Spouse , that she paid him in his own coin . And her extravagancies were so notorious , that the King , having in vain made use of intreaties , and Menaces to reclaim her , fell into a deadly Melancholy , that put an end to his days in the Castle of Blaye , whither he retir'd from the World .

The Amours of Guntran , King of Orleans .

GVNTRAN , the Brother of Cherebert , Anno 572 to whom the Kingdom of Orleans fell for his share , being very young when his Father dy'd , disburthen'd himself of the weight of his Government , and laid it upon the Shoulders of Rotharic , who had been Prime Minister of State under the Reign of Clotair . This Rotharic had two Daughters , who might well be said to be the Ornaments of the Court . The eldest of the two was named Veneranda , not above fifteen years of age at most : Fame-Rofle the youngest , not above eleven years old , promis'd much , but she was not as yet come to perfection . Their Mother was dead , so that they liv'd both together in Rotharic ●s House , under the care of an ancient Governess . The King , who often went to visit his Prime Minister , was charm'd with Veneranda's Beauty ; so that he never saw her , but he gave her to understand , by a tender and passionate Look , that she had obtain'd the conquest of his Heart . However , Veneranda was a stranger to that language , or at least she feign'd to be ignorant of it ; which troubl'd the inamour'd Prince so much the more , because he could never have an opportunity to speak to her , in regard her Governess would never permit her out of her sight . Desirous therefore he was to corrupt the old Woman , nor did he think it impossible , but he knew not whom to intrust with the secret , for fear it should reach Rotharie's ear ; who having the disposal of all Favours , had all the Courtiers ●t his command . But while he was in this perplexity , fortune gave him a fair opportunity to get rid of it . For Rotharie recommended to him for one of his Pages , a Nephew of the Governesses , who discover'd so great an affection for his Service , that the King thought he might impart his Mind to him , without danger . Thereupon he adventur'd to speak to him , and found him well inclin'd to second his designs . Accordingly , the Page gave his Aunt an account of the King's desires , and the great advantages she might justly expect as the Rewards of her faithful Services . Presently the old Woman suffer'd her self to be overcome , and being well acquainted with Veneranda's Humor , which was naturally ambitious , she told her , that 't would be her fault alone , if she did not come to be Queen , provided , she would but comply with Gontran's Affection : but in regard it became her first , to be assur'd of Gontran's Heart , before Rotharie were acquainted with the business , 't was requisite she should admit the King to visit her in private . Veneranda firmly believ'd she could never go astray , while she follow'd the Counsels of a Woman , to whose care and conduct her Father had intrusted her , and who had never preach'd to her any other Lessons , but those of Virtue : So that by her means , she saw the King more then once ; she hearken'd to his Courtship , and enter'd into those strict engagements with him , that she became the Mother of Prince Gondebaut .

In the mean time , Fame-●o●le's Beauty , Anno , 574 which augmented as she grew in years , arriv'd to so extraordinary a perfection , that Gontran fell in love with her , at the same time that he began to be tir'd with Veneranda's Favours . But Fame-Rafle , who was not ignorant how her Sister had engag'd her self , by her example had learnt how unsafe it was to relye upon Gontran's protestations ; and therefore taking better measures , she kept her ground , and disputed the Conquest inch by inch . She oppos'd her Reserv'dness against the Transports of the Prince , and neatly , and ingenuously gave him to understand , that there was nothing to be got , but by fair and lawful means ; so that the Prince , whose Passion resistance augmented , gave his consent at length , and marry'd her . Upon that , St. German , who was acquainted with his former engagements , earnestly remonstrated to him , the heinousness of such a scandalous Wedlock , and told him withal , that the Church would never approve his incestuous familiarity ; therefore be exhorted him to break it , and divorce himself from Fame-Rafle ; and not being able to gain any thing by fair means , he had recourse to Anathema's , and banish'd those two Lovers from the communion of the Faithful .

Veneranda , thô sensibly nettl'd at Gentran's Infidelity , had a long time patiently undergone her misfortune ; yet not daring to exert her Revenge upon her unconstant Lover , because he was her Sovereign ; nor upon her Rivalless , whom she could not ruine , without violating the Law of Nature . Nevertheless , she alter'd her opinion , when she saw her Excommunicated : for then no longer looking upon her as a Sister , but as an Abominable Person , whose life lay at the mercy of any one , that would take it away , she gave her a dose of Poison and sent her out of the World . However , she was never the more happy for so doing ; for she could never regain the King's Affection , the heat of whose Passion was quite extinguish'd . Nor was she less perplex'd to see him so prodigal of his amorous Sedulities to Theodegild , who after the death of the King her Husband , was fled for Sanctuary to Gentran's Court. That Princesse made him proposals of Marriage , to which he gave ear immediately , more out Ambition then Love ; in hopes , by that means , to joyn the Kingdom of Paris to that of Orleans . Nevertheless , reflecting upon the Troubles which the Marriage of Fame-Rafle had brought upon his Shoulders , he was unwilling to engage himself in a second Incestuous Wedlock , for fear of emboldning his Subjects to revolt , and furnishing his Brothers with a pretence to invade his Dominions . He therefore contented himself , with making the best of his Sister in-law's confidence in trusting him to lay violent hands upon her Treasure ; which done , he banish'd her into Provence , and thrust her into a Nunnery . Upon Theodegild's retirement , he espous'd Marcatrude the Daughter of Duke Magnacaire : and this new Queen had a Maid of Honour , whose name was Austrigild , a Lady of surpassing Beauty ; with whom Gontran fell in love , and having gain'd her Affections , had two Children by her , who dy'd both before him .

Fredegond , Mistress to Chilperic , King of Neustria and Paris .

CHILPERIC , the Brother of Cherebert and Gontran , to whoss lot fell the Kingdom of Paris and Neustria , had for his first Wife , one Audouaire , whose Original is not known , only 't is said that she was the Daughter of one of his Subjects , and that by her he had three Sons , Theodibert , Meroveus , and Clovis , together with a Daughter , whose name was Basina , who took upon her the habit of a Nun , in the Convent of St. Crosse's in Poiters , of which St. Radegond , was then the Abbess . But while Queen Audonaire liv'd , she had a Maid of Honour of mean extraction , that resided with her , who was born in the Village of Auancourt in Picardy , but whose Beauty , Wit , and other endowments render'd her worthy of high esteem , and her name was Fr●degond . She had ingenuity enough to gain at the same time , the affection both of her Master and Mistress , and withal , she knew so well which way to conceal her fain'd commerce Chilperic , that no body at the Court perceiv'd it : but the King's passion for her , was near , a whit the less violent , for being secret : and Fredegoud on the other side , who had a piercing Wit , conjectur'd shrewdly , that it would be no impossible thing for to see her self seated in the Throne , if she could preserve that ascendant , which she had over the Queen ; who being a good honest , downright simple Woman , and consequently never mistrusting Fredegond's tricks and artifices , easily fell into the snares , which she laid for her .

About that time it was , that Chilperic left Paris to make War upon his Brother Sigebert King of Austrasia , leaving Audouaire big with Child , nor was it not long after his departure , that she was brought to Bed of a Daughter , to which by Fredegond's advice , she stood for one of the Godmothers her self , who perswaded her , that would it be a means to render her more acceptable to her Husband . Chilperick being return'd , she inflam'd his Love by affected Refusals , and seeing him one day at her feet , protesting that he lov'd no body but her self , and that nothing in the world could equal the delicacy of his passion , she answer'd him with a cold indifferency , that if his protestations were sincere , he would not every day as he did , share his caresses between her and a Princess , whom the laws forbad to look upon as a Wife , since she was become so near a kin to him , by being God-mother to the Young Basina . Chilperick was at first surpriz'd at this discourse , but at length suffering himself to be prepossess d by the artifices of Fredegond , he was made believe that he committed Incest , in performing the duty of a Husband to Audouaire ; and therefore to avoyd all occasions of committing so foul a crime , he shut up his Wife in a Nunnery .

Fredegond , having thus remov'd the main obstable , believ'd that nothing else could prevent her being Queen : only one politick reason crossed her designs . For Sigebert had Marry'd Brunebant the Daughter of Athanagild , King of Spain . Now Childerick fearing least that allyance should render him too Potent , sent to demand for himself Galsuind , the sister of that Princess , and to oblige Athanagild the more easily to give his confent , he offer'd to affiance Basina to the Prince , his Son . But that was more then he could perform , in regard the King could not procure the consent of the States of his Kingdom , that his Daughter should Marry with the Prince of Spain , because he was an Arrian . Which denyal , tho' it was enough to have incens'd Athanagild , nevertheless it infus'd into him no occasion of resentment against Chilperic , as being well acquainted with his sincerity , and for that he knew 't was none of Chilperic's fault , that he could not be as good as his word ; so that he consented to his demand of Galsuiud , and gave her to him without any scruple . But in that Marriage , Chilperic met not with those sweets of Wedlock which he expected Galsuiud was proud and haughty , as all the Spanish women are , and not of a humour to brook that her Husband should , share-with another Heart , and that affection which she believ'd to be only due to her self : she soon perceiv'd the Love which her unfaithful Husband had for Fredegond , and display'd her resentment with a vengeance . Chilperic , accustom'd only to the patience of Audonaire , could not submit himself to Galsuinds outragious transports , and Fredegond left nothing omitted to exasperate the King against her . For in regard she beheld her certain ruin before her Eyes , unless she ruin'd the Queen , she never boggled at the taking a resolution to prevent her , and she understood so well how to make the best of the shallow feeblenesses of which the King had given her such frequent marks , that she perswaded him to make away Galsuind . Thereupon , Chilperic , after he had fully resolv'd upon it , made a shew of more then usual complyance with the Queen's humour , and never visited Fredegond , but withal the precautions imaginable , that he might take from Galsuind , all occasion of mistrust , and when he found her quite cur'd of all her jealous suspitions , one night that he was in Bed with her , he strangled her with her own Hair .

Sigebert being inform'd of the Death of his Sister in Law , thought it his duty to revenge it , and layd the design without ever considering that the Murderer was his Brother . He engag'd also Gontran to joyn with him . On the other side , Chilperic rais'd an Army to defend himself ; but before he took the Field , he Marry'd Fredegund . However , he did not prove successful in that War , for that his Army being defeated , and his eldest Son Theodebert having lost his Life in the Battel , he himself made a hard shift to escape to Tournay , where Sigebert immediately besieg'd him . But Fredegund , who made a slight matter of commiting the greatest crimes ▪ suborn'd a crew of Ruffians , who assasinated Sigebert in his Tent , and by that means deliver'd the King her Husband . For which piece of service , Chilperic thought himself so highly beholding to her , that he could not imagin any better way to gratify her , then by settling the Crown upon Fredegond's Children , to the prejudice of those whom he had by Audouaire . But Meroveus to whom the Kingdom belong'd , as being his eldest Son , understanding what was a brewing so contrary to hi● interest , took Arms against his Father , and retir'd to Rou●u , whither Brunebaut , Sigebert's Widow had been banisht by her Brothers in Law . There he beheld that Princess , and thought her so amiable , tho' he were then above fourty Years of Age , that he resolv'd to Marry her , To that purpose , he made the Proposal to her , and with little trouble obtain'd her consent , because she look't upon that Marriage as the means to obtain her liberty . So soon as Chilperic receiv'd the news of this Marriage , he march'd directly to Roueu , with all the Forces that he could muster together ; nor did the City make any great resistance , so that by the taking of it , Chilperic became master of the new Marri'd couple . Presently he declar'd the Marriage void , as being solemniz'd without his consent ; and after he had shut up Brunebaut in the old Palace of Roue● ; he march'd to Soissons , taking his Son along with him , where he was no sooner arriv'd , but he was besieg'd by the Champenois , who took part with Childebert , the Son of Sigebert . Fredegond ▪ that she might deliver her self from the captivity of a Siege , got out of the Town with Clovis ; the Youngest of Audouair's Children , nor did she return till after the War was ended , by the defeat of the Champenois . At hee return , the invasion of those People was the subiect of all the Town discourse , and Fredegond cunningly infus'd it into Chilperic's read , that they had never enter'd into his Dominions but at the sollicitation of Merov●●● , who by their assistance , thought to have seiz'd upon the Throne . And tho' there were a Thousand reasons to have justify'd the conduct of that Prince , Chilperic believ'd him guilty , because Fredegond accus'd him , and therefore after he had caus'd his Head to be shav'd , shut him up in a Cloister . But the cruel Queen was not satisfy'd with that punishment , which was not deem'd severe enough , for an imaginary crime : and rightly judging , that she could not secure the Crown to her Children so long as Audouair's Offspring remain'd alive , she thought it behov'd her to send them out of the World . Therefore , to bring this to pass , 't was requisite to engage Meroveus in some new exploit by which he might incurr his Fathers farther indignation . For which purpose , she sent Gontran Bosor , who was wholly devoted to her interests , to discourse him in the Monastery . Presently the Young Prince know him , because he had seen him at the head of Sigebert's Armies , but he was ignorant of the secret engagements between him and his Mother in Law ; so that he easily fell into the snare which the traytor had laid for him , who propos'd to him , his leaving the Convent to head a party that he had ready to embody under his Banners , and to that purpose , gave him an opportunity to make his escape . But no sooner was he arriv'd at the place appointed , but he was assassinated by the very person into whose arms he had thrown himself , for protection . Which Chilperic look't upon as a great piece of service , as being misinform'd , and not understanding the depth of the affair .

There remain'd now no more then Clovis , Anno 577. of all the Children of Audonaire , and Fredegond was not without hopes of being rid of him too . But Heaven , that would not permit her to enjoy the fruit of so many crimes , in less then six Months swept away all the three Children she had by Chilperic , with the Pestilence . So that the King not having any more Children then Clovis , plac'd all his affections upon him , and consequently render'd him more odious to Fredegond . Nor did the Young Prince less mortally hate his Mother in Law ; and tho' it highly conccern'd him to conceal his sentiments , which otherwise might prove his bane , yet could he not forbear to entrust his secret thoughts with one of her Maids of Honour , with whom he had an intreague . So that as Lovers can keep nothing hid from their Mistresses , he told her one day , that if he ever came to the Crown , he would not leave the Death of his Brothers unreveng'd , and that he would extend the punishment of Fredegond to the utmost rigor of the Law . This severe language being reported to Fredegond , as she had great reason to , fear the dire effects of it , so she made it her business to prevent her Son in Law : And to that purpose , she accus'd Clovis to his Father , for having destroy'd the three Children born of their Body 's in lawfull Wedlock , by vertue of certain charms , compos'd by one of her Maids of Honour and her Daughter , the very same person in whom the Prince had put so dangerous a confidence . Thereupon the King , falling into the snare , tho' so palpable and obvious to the sight , caus'd the two unfortunate Lady 's to be arrested ; who being put to the Rack , that they might free them-from from torment , whatever was ask'd 'em , they confest not only all , but more then was sufficient for the conviction of Clovis . So that the King , after he had seen the verbal report of the depositions , commanded Didier and Boson , the Captains of his Guards and Fredegond's creatures , to seize the person of his Son ; which was presently done with more then ordinary inhumanity . Immediately by order of the King his Father , they carry'd the Prince to Chelles , and from thence to Noisy , beyond the Marne , where they stab'd him , and upon their return perswaded the King , that he layd violent hands upon himself , to avoid the deserved punishment of his crime . Some few Days after , the Maid of Honour and her Daughter were sentenc'd to be burnt alive , and accordingly Executed in the publick Market place of Paris . Nor did the cruelties of Fredegond stop there . For being afraid least any one should remain alive , that might revenge the Death of so many innocents , she sent in like manner to the other World , both Andouoire and Basina her Daughter ; altho that , being shut up in a Cloister , they were not in a condition to give her any occasion of jealousy . And now there was nothing wanting more , to satisfy the ambition of this remorstess Princess , but to have a successor to Chilperic born of her own body . Propitious Heaven also , not yet resolv'd to punish her transgressions , gave her one who was call'd Clotaire , in whose person France being once more reunited , was never since divided again .

But neither was Cruelty Fredegond's only vice ; for her unchastity was no less ; and several Lovers had a share in her favour , among which were Didier and Boson already mention'd , and Beleran , Archbishop of Bourdeaux . But he who enjoy'd her Heart the longest , was Landry de la Tour , Mayor of the Palace , who being both Younger and handsomer then the rest , constrain'd em to give him place . Nevertheless , altho the intreague was publickly known at Court , the King had no knowledge of it ; Husband 's being generally the persons who are latest inform'd of the disorders of their Families . However he discover'd it at length , and that discovery cost him his Life .

One Day that he had appointed for a match at Hunting , Anno ●●4● he rose betimes in the Morning , leaving Fredegond a sleep in her Bed . But the weather not proving favourable , enforc'd him to return sooner then he was wont to do . Thus he rode back full speed , attended only by one Page , presently alighted , and ascending by a back pair of Stairs , enter'd the Queen's chamber , who was then fiting at her Toilet with her hair about her Ears ; and at the same time stealing softly behind her chair , tickl'd her gently upon the Shoulder with his wand . To whom the Queen , who was intent about dressing her Head and cur●ing her locks , and having her imagination fill'd with the Idea of her Favorite , without ever looking behind her , Ah Landry , said she , that 's no trick of a right Courrier to come behind a Lady . The King surpriz'd at such an amourous and familiar piece of merriment , slipt out of the chamber agen , without so much as one word , leaving Fredegond , who was become terrible of her mistake , in a most terrible astonishment , and the less he seem'd to take notice of it , the more did the jealous Princess believe she had reason to be afraid , as making no question , but she should soon feel the effects of his revenge . By this time Chilperic was got a Horseback agen , and gone to find out his retinue , who were not yet return'd . And Fredegond made use of that interval of time , to resolve upon what she had to do , in such a nice and delicate conjuncture . Immediately she sent for Landry , and having told him what had befallen her , ask'd his advice what course to take . Landry advis'd her to retire forthwith to Guntran , and to put her self under his protection . The Queen beholding him with Eyes , which , tho' full of wistfull passion , yet darted forth some certain mixtures of despite , For a Knight , said she , like you , that have acquir'd some reputation by your courage , the resolution which you would infuse unto me , is nothing generous . As much a Woman as I am , let me take my own course . Chilperie must die , or we are both ruin'd ; nor have we minute to loose upon this occasion . He is gone a hunting with a very small attendance : either then resolve to send him out of the World , or to drop your head upon a Scaffold . Landry stood a while like one in a trance at such a desparate proposal ; but a length after he had ponder'd for some few minutes , with a fix'd resolution , he shall die , Madam , said he , and you shall be obey'd . At the same time he flung out of the Chamber without speaking a word more , and being return'd home , he sent for six undaunted Ruffians , that feat'd no colours , and whom he knew to be entirely devoted to his interests , to whom he unfolded his design , and having furnish'd 'em with the best Horses in his stable , and Money in their Pockets to make their escapes , which way they thought most convenient , he directed 'em to the place where the King was a Hunting . Away flew the apposted villains like Lightning , dog'd the King all the remainder of the Day , and keeping close up with him by the favour of the Dusk , till he was got all alone into a solitary Village , there they gave him several mortal Wounds , and flung themselves into the Forrest adioyning . Fredegond understanding that the business was done , put her self under the protection of the Bishop of Paris , and after that , sent to Guntran , to offer him the Regency of her Kingdom , and the education of her Son ; who accepted both , adn undertook to defend 'em against Childebert and his Mother Brunebaut , who resolv'd to dispute the Crown with Young Clotaire . Fredegond finding her self free from all controul , continued her licentious manner of living , with so much open scandal , that Pretextatus Archbishop of Rouen , could not forbear severely to reprehend her . But the liberty which he took , offended the Queen to that degree , as not enduring to be reprimanded by her inferiors , she caus'd the Prelat to be assassinated at the Altar as he was saying Mass . Some time after , Guntran happ'ning to die , Fredegond had still so great a reputation in the Kingdom , as to give the Regency of the Realm to Landry . Childebert , who pretended it to be his Right , was so enrag'd to be put by , that he enter'd the Dominions of Clotaire with Fire and Sword . The Queen , nothing astonisht at the approach of his Army , resolv'd to march in person against her Enemies ; and taking her Son along with her , she carry'd him from Rank to Rank , as a sight most proper to encourage the Soldiers : which done , she gave Battel with so much Valour , Conduct and Success , that she utterly defeated Childeber's Forces . After which Victory , she fell into Austratia , where she prov'd very victorious , till a malignant Fever put an end both to her Days and her ambitious Designs .