●●peror Claudius , a noble Duke whose name was Sappho ●●ke of Mantona , who as well , through his owne magna●●●itie and valiaunce , as otherwise through his greate poli●ie and experience in Marciall affaires , had atchiued many notable victories , in the behalfe of the Emperour against the Turke , whiche made hym bothe famous to the worlde , and feared of his enemies , but moste entirely beloued of the Emperour Claudius ▪ But the Warres beyng once finished and brought to an ende , so that the Empire remained in tranquilitie and peace : Souldiors were forgotten , Captaines were 〈◊〉 cared for , such as had profered themselues to fight for the 〈◊〉 of their Countrie , were now shaken of , and suche were preferred in their romes , as had any facultie in them tending to pleasure and delight , as Dauncers , Pipers , Fidlers , Minstriles , Singers , Parisites , Flatterers , Iesters , Rimers , Talebearers , Newes cariers , Loue makers , suche as can de●ise to please women , with newe fangles , str●unge fashions , 〈…〉 of their beauties , when sometymes it is scarce 〈◊〉 by commendyng of their mani●olde vertues , when God knowes they haue fewe or none at all . But see I praie you how farre my wittes beginne to square , I pretended but to penne certaine pleasant discourses , for the onely pleasure of Gentlewomen , and euen at the the very fir●●●ntry , ● am ●alne from a reasonable tale to a railyng rage , as it maie seeme . But I pray you Gentilwomen beare with my weakenesse , and as the Preacher in the Pulpit , when he is out of his Text ▪ will sai●●or excuse : Good , people , though this Bee somethyng degressyng from my matter , yet it maie very well serue at this present : Take this I praie you for my excuse in like case .

And now to my purpose where I left of before this noble ●●ke Sappho , had no skill in Courting tr●●e : his hed which 〈◊〉 been accustomed to beare the loftie Helme , had now quite ●orgotten to weare the waueryng Plumes , ready to blow a●aie with euery winde . His bodie moste ineured to weare a ●●ate of steele , could not be brought in fashion with this qu●in● 〈◊〉 nice araie . His necke he thought more fitly to pa●se the 〈◊〉 Targe , then to be hanged with Gemines or Chaines of gold : his fingers commonly practised to graspe the 〈◊〉 or Launce , could not be brought in frame to strike the Virg●nall or Lute : his voyce serued him better to cheare his Souldiers in the field , then either to faine or sing ditties in a ladies Chamber : His tongue had more vsed to speake simplie and plaine , then to dissemble with his freend , or to flatter with his foe : His legges had better skill to march after dubbe a dubbe a dubbe , then to mince it with a Minion , tracyng a Pauion or Galliarde vppon the Rushes : what should I saie farther , this noble Duke had no maner of skill in Carpet trade : But thus it fel out that Parasites and Flatterers , hauing once entered credite with the Emperour ( as surely it is almost a common infirmitie , aswell amongst Princes , as other superiour Officers , to bee seduced by Flatterers , Pickthankes , and Tale-bearers ) this noble Emperour likewise , by the instigation of suche as were about hym , who perceiuyng the Duke to bee none of their flatteryng fraternitie , and enueighing the great reputation wherein the Emperour helde hym , had so incense● the Emperour against hym , that now his likyng was ●●uerted into loathyng , and his greate loue tourned to a me●● hate , that in the end the poore Duke was brought to answere vnto many forged articles surmised against hym , who neither in consideration of his former seruice dooen for his Countrie , neither in respect of the innocencie of his cause , could otherwise bee dispensed withall , then to be banished into exile , hym self , Messilina his wife , Aurelianus his soonne , with Phylene his daughter : And although the common sorte of people held hym in greate honour , and muche lamented his case , yet it could not bee h●lpen , but the Emperous decree openly pronounced , must needes take place .

I beseech you Gentlewomen , yet to comfort your selues , I knowe your gentle hartes , can not endure to heare of such vngentle partes , but these are but the frumpes of ordina●● Fortune , not priuate to Duke Sappho alone , but commo● 〈◊〉 al men that be of the like profession , for what happened bet●●● to the moste noble Captaines of the worlde , or what other , 〈◊〉 compence receiued either Caesar , Scipio , Haniball , or 〈…〉 〈…〉 , who hauing honoured their Countries , with sondrie ●●●umphes , and many notable Victories , when the Warres were ended , and that there was no more need of them , finished their daies in suche pitifull plight , as I will keepe to my self , because right courteous Gentlewomen , I rather desire to drawe you into delightes , then to drowne you in dumphes , by reuealyng of suche vnnaturall factes , as I know your gentle Natures is not able to digest .

Thus you haue heard how this noble Duke , with his wife and children , by sentence from the Emperour , were banished from out their natiue Countrie , as also from any other Realmes , Cities , Tounes , or territories , beyng within the Emperours Dominions . There resteth now for the Duke to make such poore prouision for his furnishyng , as his habilitie might any waies serue hym , the whiche GOD knoweth , fell out so meane and skante , as it scarcely serueth hym to defraie his charges , to carrie hym from out those places , from whence he was prohibited : and takyng his course towardes the partes of ●●acedonia , after a long and wearie iourney , he arriued at a Towne called Tariffa , where beeyng lodged in a meane and simple house , his money now being at the last cast , wherewith to beare his charges , his poore Wife and children altogether wearied , with their long and troublesome trauaile , and hym self all ashamed to be knowne what he was . Now it fell out , that the Hoste of the house many tymes vewyng , and castyng his eyes vpon the Duchesse of Messilina , who notwithstanding she dissembled her estate and degree , contented to leaue her honourable dignitie , and to perticipate such equall fortune with her housbande and children , as their hard happes had conducted them vnto , yet her beautie ( whiche could not be blemished with meane and homely garmentes ) had so entangled her arrant Hoste , that he could not be merie when he was out of her ●weete sight , and now though he perceiued his ghest beganne 〈◊〉 waxe slacke in his paiment , and not able to disburse for his ●●●inarie expences , yet for the loue he bare to his wife , he was 〈◊〉 ●ntented to chalke vp the charges behinde the doore , hoping 〈◊〉 end to haue cleared the skores to his better content , and as time and conuenience might serue him , he spared not 〈◊〉 the Duchesse vnderstande his great likyng towardes her , a●suryng her , that the courtesie that he vsed towardes her housbande , was onely for her sake , and that if he were assured his good will might bee acceptable in her sight , she might assure her self of suche a freend of him , as would be as carefull of her as her housbande , to whom she was maried .

This Ladie now hauyng well pondered the woordes of her amourous Hoste , who would not thinke but that she was muche perplexed in her mynd , that she who had been borne of honourable Parentage , espoused to a noble Duke , whose dignitie in tymes past , surmounted all the rest , whose trainyng vp had euer béen amongst those of the highest degrée , and now that her honourable estate , was not onely eclipsed by crooked Destinie , but also to haue her Chastitie assailed , by suche a simple coisterell , whom she durst not so sharpely shake of , as her harte would very well haue serued , for that she knewe 〈◊〉 Duke her housbande was runne in his debt , neither could 〈◊〉 tel by what meanes he was able to discharge it , she was 〈◊〉 fore constrained with faire speeches , to shift him of from 〈◊〉 to tyme , the whiche the knaue perceiuing very well , began 〈◊〉 to thinke with hymself , that it was but her housbandes pr●●sence , that hindered hym of his purpose , and therefore determined to finde a present remedie .

And now commyng to his ghest , beganne to recken with hym , and to call hym to accoumpt for the charges wherein he was behinde , tellying hym , that at that very instaunt , he had occasion to occupie money , which made him not onely to seek vp suche small sommes as were due vnto hym , but also to trie his freendes otherwise to serue his tourne , and that helpyng hym now at his present neede , he might then begin againe 〈◊〉 newe score , and would beare with hym a muche longer tyme●●

The poore Duke then inforced to seeke out an old 〈◊〉 for an newe Sore , whiche is to praie when he was not 〈◊〉 paie , with very courteous speeches , desired his Hoste to be 〈◊〉 with his inabilitie , assuring him that when time should 〈◊〉 he would so throughly recompence hym , as he should 〈◊〉 〈…〉 to holde hym well contented .

But what praiers maie preuaile , where pitie is cleane exi●●d , or what gentlenesse is to be looked for , to come from such 〈◊〉 vngentle chorle , whose mynde was onely set vppon Rape and Rauine , who had premeditated before the drift ( whiche as he presupposed ) was now sorted out as he looked for .

Wherefore ( as it were ) half in a furie , he vttered forth these wordes : My freend content your self , and take this for a resolute aunswere , the money whiche now resteth in your hands , although I might very ill forbeare it , as my case standeth , yet for that it is not myne ease , to runne into any farther charges , without a better assuraunce , then either woordes or promises , I am notwistandyng contented to beare with you for that which is alreadie past , myndyng from this daie forwards to giue no further credite , and for that you are altogether a straunger , vnto me vnknowne , both what you are , from whence you come , whether you will , and where I should finde you , I purpose therefore for my better securitie , and the rather to 〈…〉 by that you alreadie doe owe me , to keepe your wife in ●●aune , whom I know is so dearely beloued vnto you , that for ●●er sake I shall the sooner heare from you againe , otherwise I knowe not where to inquire after you , nor how to come by that is my due , whiche I am not well able to forbeare , neither doe I mynde clearely to lose .

The poore afflicted Duke , hauyng neuer falne before into cutthrotes handes , perswaded in deede that the tenour of this Varlettes woordes , and the keepyng of his wife tended to no other end , but for his better assuraunce to come by his money , was constrained to make a vertue of necessitie , and was so ●nuche the better pleased , for that his wife might still remaine free from farther trauaile , and thinkyng in tyme to settle him ●elf , and to recouer his wife and children about hym : with this ●esolution he began to relate vnto his wife , with what saluta●●ons his gentle Host had greeted him withall , desiring her to ●●mfort her self for a season , assuring to doe his best indeuour , 〈◊〉 so set vp his sailes to the prosperous gales of Fortune .

〈◊〉 his good Ladie , hearyng her housbandes discourse vncertaine what to doe , wept bitterly , as well for greefe to 〈◊〉 his presence , as for that she should bee left in the house of ●●arrant knaue her Hoste , but like a wise Ladie , hearyng the a●●leadged reasons of her Lorde and housbande , did thinke it not for the best , to encrease his olde sorowe with a new greef , contented her self , vtteryng these wordes .

Deare housbande , knowyng all that you haue saied to be very iust and true , I am contented for a certaine tyme to force my will , in hope that hereafter we maie liue together , ioiyng our selues in the companie of our children , and this I would desire you , that so often as you can by conuenient and trustie messengers , to sende me word and intelligence of your health and estate , because the same should bryng greater contentation vnto me , then the welfare of myne owne self .

This saied , she imbracyng hym very louingly , and he kissing her with greate sorrowe and greefe , tooke his leaue , and badd his Ladie and spouse hartely farewell , leauyng with her Phylene her deare daughter .

Thus hymself with Aurelianus his little sonne , 〈…〉 from Tariffa , towards the famous Citie of Cayre , and 〈…〉 passed through a Wildernesse , hauyng lost their waie , ●●●dering two or three daies without any maner of foode , sauing Hippes , Hawes , and Slowes , suche as thei could gather in the Desert , the poore childe being ouer come with faintnesse , not longer able to trauaile , beganne to complaine to his afflicted Father , desiryng hym to sitte downe to rest hym self a tyme , the wofull Father tormented in his mynde , to see his poore distressed childe , sat hym doune vnder a Tree , where after a while , recountyng to hymself his sonderie misfortunes beyng oppressed and wearied with trauaile , he fell into a sound sleepe , the Childe after he had a while rested hymself , leauyng his Father a sleepe , beganne to seeke about for somethyng to s●ake his hunger , and as he was straiyng thus about the woo●●des , it fortuned the Duke of Vasconia , hauyng lost his com●panie in the pursute of a Stag , where he had been a hunty●● and as he was crossyng the nexte waie to goe to the Citie 〈◊〉 Messyna , where he helde his Courte , hauyng in his comp●●● 〈◊〉 the Lorde of Sura , with three or fower seruing men , he fortuned to espie the childe runnyng in the bushes all alone , and callyng the childe vnto hym , he saied , alas my little boy , what makest thou in this place , art thou here alone , or how camest thou hether I praie thee tell me . Forsothe Godfather ( qd the childe ) I came hether with my Father , who lyes a sleepe here by , and I was seekyng somethyng to eate , for by my trothe I am so a hongered , that I could eate worse meate then a peece of a rosted Pigge , and that with all my harte .

The Duke greatly pleasuryng to heare the pretie aunswere of the childe , replied in this wise : How saiest thou my little knaue , wilt thou bee my boye and dwell with me , and I will giue thee good meate thy belly full , how saiest thou wilt thou goe with me .

Yea forsooth Godfather ( qd the Childe ) on that condition you will giue me rost meate enough , I will goe with you , for I thinke I did not eate my bellie full of roste meate , this moneth and more .

〈◊〉 The Duke then commaunded one of his men to take vp the Childe , whom he caried awaie with hym , and now perceiuyng it to be bothe well fauoured , quicke witted , and very apt to learning , he brought it vp at Schoole , where he proued not onely wise and learned , but also in many other exercises , conuenient and fitt for Gentlemen , he commonly excelled euery other man , and thus leauyng him at Schoole , I will conuert my tale to his wofull Father , who when he was awaked , and missed his pretie sonne , beganne to prie about in euery bushe , seekyng and callyng , what Aurelianus , Aurelianus , where be you Aurelianus : But in the end when he could no where finde hym , thinkyng assuredly that he had beene deuoured by some wild Beast , beganne with pitifull exclamation to crie out . O Fortune , Fortune more then fickle , who in a moment hoiste a man vp to the highest degree , and by and by , in lesse space then in the twincklyng of an eye , she throweth hym doune againe 〈◊〉 lowe , as more miserie is prepared for hym in one daie , then ●he aduaunced hym in an hundred yeres , whiche I now proue , ●nd haue experience in my self , & so muche the more , the greater is my greef , who haue been nourished delicately among●● my freends , maintained stil in most prosperous estate , hoping for the full perfection of my felicities , by Marriyng a Noble Dame , with whom I pretended to spende the residue of my life , accordyng to the scope and lott appointed by the almightie God , but now beholde all my enterprizes be quite pluckt backe , and my purposes tourned cleane topse torue , in suche wise , that from honourable estate , I am driuen to wander like a Vacabonde , driuen from Poste to Piller , from Countrie to Countrie , from Region , to Region , to sequestrate my self from amongest my freendes , without any assured place where to make my abode . Oh frowarde fate , how canst thou bee so hard harted , and voyde of pitie , still to prosecute thy cruell pursute , first to depriue me of my honourable dignities , then to banish me from amongest my louyng freendes , thirdly to seperate me from Messilina , my well beloued wife , more deare vnto me then the balles of my vnhappie eyes , and not yet contented , but now to bereue me of my sweete Infant , my onely hope of comforte in my olde age . O Death Death , the 〈…〉 ●●rowes , and the beginner of felicities , now make sharpe thy Darte , and giue no longer delaie of life , dispatche , dispatch at once , the most infortunate man that liues this day on earth : for what auailes my life , if in the gulfe af sorrowe and greefe I droune the pleasures of the same : But ah I see right well , thou preseruest the same of purpose , but to delight in my gréeues , and to triumph ouer my aduersities . And here withall the brinishe teares so streamed doune his chéekes , that he was not farther able to speake one woorde , but runnyng vp and doune the Woodes , sighing and sobbing in great anguish of mynd , and his bodie muche infeebled for want of foode and sustenaunce : He fortuned to meete certain labouryng men , that dwelt in a poore Village not farre from the place , who perceiuing by his geasture , that he was passionated in his thoughts , thei beganne with suche courtesie , as thei had learned in the Countrie , to demaunde the occasion of his greefe .

But he knowing very well , how farre thei were vnable t● minister releefe to the least of his afflictions , could render 〈◊〉 other aunswere , then piteous sighes and sobbes : but the poore Pesaunts , when thei had better behelde the talnesse of his stature , the seemelinesse of his countenance , and the comelinesse of his personage , were greatly mooued with compassion towardes hym , and with suche badde eloquence as their skill would permit , beganne to perswade hym to walke with them to their Cabbins , where he might refresh hymself , with suche homely Iunckettes , as was prouided for their owne suppers . The Duke contented to yeelde to their requestes , walked along with them , where he remained all the night very pensiue and heauie in his harte , and beganne to thinke with hymself , that there was no more hope left for him to heare of his sonne , and therefore beganne to imagine , how he might render some reléef to his poore wife and daughter , whom he had left as you before haue heard .

Now there was dwellyng hard by the place , a noble man that was Lorde of the Village , who hauyng intelligence of this distressed Straunger , caused hym to bee sent for , before whom when the Duke was presented , after many questions debated betweene them , the Noble man demaunded of the Duke what Countrey man he was , and how he had béen trained vp , & then if he could be contented to plaie the Seruyngman , and would bee carefull and diligent in his Maisters affaires , that then , he would bee contented to receiue hym into his seruice , and would rewarde hym accordyngly , as he was able to deserue .

The Duke all ashamed to bee knowne what he was , reuerently made aunswere , that he was borne in the Countrey of Achaia : and that he had been trained vp in seruice with sonderie Noble men , and woud bee very well contented to doe his best indeuour , to serue hym with the best seruice he could doe .

Thus the poore Duke became a Seruyngman , whom we will leaue with his Maister , and returne to his wife , who was left in Hucsters handelyng ( as you haue heard ) remained in the house with this Verlette , who sought by sondrie assaies , to satisfie his villanous lust , and like an experte Souldier when 〈◊〉 commeth to besiege a holde , first sendeth his Herauldes to summon the Forte , proferyng many large conditions , if they will quietly surrender , but if defiaunce be made , then present●ly he placeth his Batterie , thunderyng forthe his Canon shot against the walles , whiche if thei bee so well Rampered , that there will no breache be made , yet he ceaseth not with giftes and bribes to corrupte the Warders , not caryng how he conquereth so he maie haue the spoyle .

This vilaine in likewise , sought first with piteous sighes , whiche saust with sugred woordes , did serue in steede of Harauldes , to perswade her to yeeld vp the keyes of the fortresse , that with peaceable entrie , he might take possession at his pleasure : but beyng by her repulsed , and the Flagge of defiaunce displaied vpon the Bulwarke , then with thunderyng threates he thinketh to make his Batterie , proferyng to cast her into prison , for the debt whiche was owing hym for her housbande and her self . Other whiles againe he would tempt her , and trie her with giftes , thinkyng that for the necessitie she was driuen into , she would haue made sale of that , whiche she preferred before her owne life .

This noble Dame , perceiuyng her self so hardly beset on euery side , fearyng in the ende , the Verlet would woorke her some greater despight , so inforced her self , with Phyleno her little daughter to fall to worke , that with weauyng and knittyng of laces , and otherwise with their needles , thei had gained so muche money , as she was able to set her self free , from out a knaues debt . And thinkyng with her self , that her housbande had remained about the Citie of Cayre , to the whiche he purposed to iourney when he departed from her : she determined with all conuenient speede to repaire thether , as well to comforte her self with the companie of her Lorde and housbande , as otherwise with her yearnynges to helpe to releeue hym , but for that she had vnderstandyng that the passage by lande , was not onely troublesome , but also very inconuenient for her to trauaile , by reason it lay through Woodes and D●●sertes , she gate inteligence of a small Barke that was bou●● thether by Sea , whiche onely staied but for a winde to ser●● her turne : herevpon she discharged her self from the Tow●● of Taryffa , and when wether serued , agreeyng with the Maister for her passage , her self with her daughter repaired aborde the Barke , whiche beyng put to Sea , was forced by the extremitie of a contrarie winde , to put them selues romer for the safetie of their liues , to a cleane contrarie place . And where thei ment to haue sailed to the Citie of Cayre , they were now ariued at the Citie of Cherona , where the Ladie commyng a shore , she ioyed nothyng so muche in the narrowe escape she had made with life , by reason of the tempest , as she sorrowed for beyng so farre driuen from her housbande , whose fellowshippe she more desired , then either wealthe or worldly treasure . But for asmuche as both her self and her daughter , were very euill at ease , and greatly infeebled with sicknesse at the Sea , and bad liyng in the Shippe , she determined to make her abode still at Cherona , till she might conuaie letters to Taryffa , that should certifie her housbande of all that had happened .

In the meane tyme , her housbande hauing receiued some small beneuolence of his Lorde and Maister , who had conceiued some good likyng of hym , by reason of the skill that he had in the ridyng of Horse , very desirous to render his wife some portion of his good fortunes , who had been so long tyme partaker of his euill happes , crauyng leaue of his Lorde for a tyme , came to Taryffa , where when he missed his wife , whose letters were not yet come from Cherona , and therefore could get no inteligence , but that she was gone to Cayre , of purpose to seeke hym : in a greate perplexitie he traueiled towardes Cayre , where makyng greate inquirie could learne nothyng of her , from thence he posted from place to place , from Citie to Citie , from Towne to Towne , but beyng neuer the neare his purpose , he then began to double his dolours , and with bitter words to curse the celestiall Signes , and Planets , which raigned at the daie of his Natiuitie , and howre of his birthe , contented to yeeld hym self a captiue to mishappe , and to surrender hymself a subiect to Fortunes frowarde frumpes .

Beyng thus turmoyled with greate anguishe of mynde , wanderyng to and fro , he was brought so lowe and bare , that he was readie to begge an almes from doore to doore , and commyng to a poore Countrey Village , his penurie was suche , that he was glad to become a seruaunt to hym that was the Sexten of the Parishe , whom he had not serued long , but the olde Sexten his maister died , and for that he had now learned to ryng Belles , and had some cunnyng in the keepyng of a Clocke : the Parishoners were contented to place hym in his Maisters rome ; the Duke thinkyng hymself more then thrise happie to gett so greate preferment , thanked Ladie Fortune that had so freendly dealt with hym , resoluyng hymself to continue the office while he liued , but Fortune findyng hym so thankfull for a little , dealt more freendly with hym , as after you shall heart .

But I will first declare how it happened with his soonne Aurelianus , who was taken vp in the woodes by the Duke of Vasconya ; as before you haue heard .

But here I muste firste remember you , that the Duke chaunged his name from Aurelianus to Siluanus , whiche name he gaue hym of purpose , for that he was founde in the Woodes .

Siluanus now hauyng been trained vp at Schoole , was come to mans estate , and besides that he had the knowledge of good letters , he was comely in his personage , and of very good proportion , and in all maner of actiuities , appertainyng to a Gentleman , he exceeded euery other that was in the Courte , besides in his demeanours he was so courteous and gentle , that he gained the good will and likyng , bothe of one and other , but especially of the Duke hym self , who alowed hym suche large expenses , whereby to maintaine hymself as braue as the best .

Now this noble Duke hauyng no other children but one onely daughter , whose name was Valeria , in whom it seemed that bothe Vertue and Beautie had heelde some greate contention , who should beare awaie the prise , for although that in beautie and good grace she exceeded euery other Dame yet her vertues and good conditions surmounted more he● beautie , then the finest golde surmounteth leade or drosse .

This Ladie now hauyng heard greate reporte of the noblenesse of Siluanus , who was suspected to be but some poore mans sonne , by reason he was founde in the Woodes , began yet to beare hym very good countenaunce , whiche at the first proceeded but of the noble Nature , whiche euer was accustomed to be fauourable to suche , in whom was founde any worthie desarte : but as the fishe whiche by little and little sucketh vppon the baite , till at the length she swalloweth doune the hooke , wherby she hangeth fast , not able to free her self , so this Lady Valerya , contemplating her self many tymes to behold that young Gentleman Siluanus , was so farre intangled with his sweete and pleasaunt , countenaunce , that now perforce her will , she was constrained to yeelde to Loue , and feelyng her self insnared , and bereued of former freedome , beeyng by her self alone , she began to complaine as followeth .

Alas ( saieth she ) is it possible , that now force perforce my mynde should bee so altered , that straiyng from the boundes and limites of vowed Chastitie : I should now become amourous , and subiect to a certaine vnacquainted lust , from whence commeth this alteration ? or how happeneth this vnaccustomed hewe ? ah Loue Loue , how hast thou tormented me , and taken awaie the healthe and soundnesse of my mynde , it behoueth me to shewe my self , as issued forthe of the noble house of Vasconya , and with the greater care I ought to take heede , how I degenerate from the noble bloud whereof I am descended , rather then to sette my mynde on a fondlyng vnknowen , vnto whom peraduenture if I discouer my fondnesse , will not let to mocke me for my labour , and for all the beautie or noblenesse of my birthe , will make me his iestyng stocke , and solace hymself with the fondnesse of my conceiptes . But staie staie vnhappie tongue , that thundereth forthe suche hatefull wordes against my beloued Siluanus . Oh thrise accursed wenche that can so vngently conceiue against hym , that in all his demeanours , doeth shewe hymself as noble as the best , but of what mettall are either Monarche , Kyng or Keiser framed of , otherwise then of naturall , and common earth , whereof other men doe come ? Or what maketh these differences , which by sottishe opinion we conceiue , either of gentle or vngentle ▪ otherwise then the shew of vertue and good conditions . Then the partie whom I loue , is bothe vertuous , valiaunt , sage , of good grace , learned and wise . Vaunt thee then Valeria , that thou likest no inferiour fondlyng , vnworthie of thy loue , but a worthie Gentleman , indued with noble qualities , in whom bothe Heauen and Nature haue forgotten nothyng , to make hym equall to them that marche in formost ranke : It is Siluanus whom I loue , and of hym I pretende to make a lawfull housband , for otherwise I detest to lead the filthie life of lawlesse lust , but thus the bonde of Mariage beyng made , I maie loue and liue without offence of conscience , neither shall I do any blot or blemishe to the greatnesse of my house . But if any bee so scrupulous , as to thinke by marriyng of hym , I should deminishe myne honour : It is the thyng that I doe least esteeme , for what is honour worthe , where the mynde is voyde of contentation , and where the harte is bereued of his cheefest desire , the bodie remaineth restlesse , and the mynde is neuer in quiet . Siluanus therefore shall be my loyall housbande , meanyng thereby neither to offende God nor man .

And now from hence forwardes , she deuised with her self , how to make her loue knowne to Siluanus , not sparyng when she was out of his presence , before all men to praise his greate perfections , wherewith he was enriched , and in his owne presence she vsed suche louyng countenaunce towardes him , that although Siluanus were but yong , and had neuer been trained vp in the Schoole of Loue , yet he perceiued very well , that those frendly glances were lent him of good liking , and those louing countenaunces were grounded of good will , and albeit , he sawe the inequalitie and difference betweene them both , she beyng sorted out of royall race , and hymself altogether ignorant of his owne estate , and from whence he was sprong , yet beeyng now ledde by Loue , whose lawes haue no respect either to estate or dignitie , he determined to followe his Fortune , and to serue her , whiche so louyngly shewed her self , to requite hym with the like , and the more he called to mynde the diuine beautie of his Ladie , her graces , wisedome , behauiour , and curtesie , so muche the more increased his desire , fortifiyng hymself against all mishappes , and perilles that might succeede , and began to debate with hymself in this maner .

How is it possible that I should be so foolishe , to despise a duetie so rare and preciouse , and to set light by that which the noblest would pursue , with all reuerence and indeuour , I am not the first , that hath obtained the loue of a Ladie : no no , I see she loueth me , and shall not I requite it by yeeldyng loue againe , if I were so voyde of humanitie and good nature , besides I might worke myne owne ouerthrowe , in seemyng to dispise so noble a Ladie , so the Goddes would not let to minister reuenge , as thei did vpon Narcissus . But ah sillie wretche that I am , what follie is this that I haue now premeditated , with the perill of myne honour , and the hazarde of my life : see see how farre my affections begin to straie , through the hot assaultes of foolishe fantasie , inraged with an appetite rising on vaine hope , what madnesse on me to thinke that Valerya will so muche forget the greatnesse of her house , or yet unbase her self in respect of me poore sillie soule : but what if she would be contented , either in respect of mariage or otherwise in respect of good will , to surrender her self to satisfie my request , how muche were I the neare my purpose , alas nothyng at al , the first , I knowe should be denaide me by the Duke her father , and as for any other curtesie , although I knowe it bee farre from her thought , yet surely myne owne conscience would not suffer me , to proffer so greate villanie to so noble a Ladie , neither the reuerence and duetie whiche I owe to her father would permit me , to requite his gentilnesse towards me with so greate an iniurie . Cease therefore Siluanus , subdue thy sensualitie , that by vanquishyng thy self , thou maiest set open the gate to Fame , who with her Trompe of euerlastyng glorie , she maie aduaunce thee renowmed to all posteritie .

But alas , shall I then giue ouer to loue my Ladie Valerya , reason willes me so to doe , but loue hath so blinded al my sences , that reason giueth no maner of light , what helpe haue I then hereafter to hope for , alas I knowe no one , and therefore be content . Herewithall he staied his trauaile , resoluyng with hymself to conquere his affections , and beeyng in his Chamber takyng pen and yuck , he sate him doune and wrote these verses followyng .

No shame I trust , to cease from former ill , Nor to reuert , the leudnesse of the mynde : Whiche hath bin trainde , and so misled by will , To breake the boundes , whiche reason had assyngde . I now forsake the former tyme I spent . And sorie am , for that I was miswent . But blinde forecast , was he that made me swarue , Affection fond , was lurer of my lust : My fancie fixte , desire did make me serue , Vaine hope was he , that trained all my trust : Good liking then , so daseled had my sight , And dimnde myne eyes , that reason gaue no light . O sugred sweete , that trainde me to this trap , I sawe the baite , where hooke laie hidden fast : I well perceiude , the drift of my mishap . I knewe the bit , would breede my bane at last , But what for this , for sweete I swallowed all : Whose taste I finde , more bitter now then gall . But loe the fruites , that grewe by fonde desire , I seeke to shunne , that pleased best my mynde : I sterue for colde , yet faine would quenche the fire , And glad to loose , that fainest I would finde , In one self thyng , I finde bothe baall and blisse , But this is straunge , I like no life but this .

When he had thus penned these verses , he committed them to memorie , and the next daie beyng in the companie of certaine Gentlemen and Gentlewomen in the Court , taking a Lute , whereon he could plaie very well , and hauyng likewise good knowledge in his song , & therewithall a very pleasaunt voyce , he began to sing this dittie before mentioned , in the middest whereof came in the yong Ladie Valerya , wherewith Siluanus staied his song , but she ioynyng her self to the companie , seyng the sainct that secretly shrined in her thought , she had vowed her greatest deuotion vnto , desired Siluanus , at her request , to begin his song againe : Siluanus , makyng the matter nothyng nice , was pleased very well to satisfie her request , and takyng the Lute began his song , to the whiche the Ladie gaue intentiue eare , from the beginnyng to the ending , and perceiuing the song to be made in some extreame passion forced by loue , she demaunded of Siluanus who had penned those verses , who aunswered , thei were of his owne pennyng , and so lately doen that he could not forget them : the Ladie then thinking Siluanus to be in loue with some other Gentlewoman , departed very speedily , as though some sodaine motion 〈◊〉 happened to her mynde , and comming to her Chamber , ●huttyng fast the doore , she began to saie as followeth .

How muche am I vnfortunate aboue all other women , that beyng a Ladie of suche bloud as I am , and yet am happened into so straunge a miserie , that in maner with myne owne mouth , I haue made request to hym , which rather with all humilitie , ought to profer me his seruice , and yet am scornfully reiected , and an other like to catche the birdes , whilest I doe but beate the bushe . Oh Siluanus Siluanus , deemest thou me no better worthe , then so lightly to reiect my proffered loue , and shall an other that is muche lesse worthie , beare awaie the sweete fruite of my desired hope , and shall possesse without desert , the glorie due to a firme and faithfull frende ? No no , I can not thinke thee s● ingrate , and my harte foretelleth me , that it is impossible my Siluanus should wander so farre from equitie , but that he is able to discerne of colours , and will not requite me with wrong for right , I am sure not to be deceiued in my loue , I knowe he loueth me , but that he dareth not to disclose the same , fearyng I should refuse hym , and cast hym of with shame , I will not let therfore with myne owne mouth to bewraie the same vnto hym , and to manifest my good will , whereby my chast and honest amitie once knowen vnto him , vertue her self may knit the knot betweene vs , whiche can not chuse but bryng forthe the fruites of true and perfect freendship .

And shall I then beeyng a Ladie of suche degree , bee constrained to sewe , where euery other woman of the meanest reputation , bee ordinarily required , and that with the importunate instance of their suters , I shal then be noted of boldnesse , and bee thought to straie too farre from the limites and boundes of modestie , and to make a greater show of lightnesse , than is properly looked for in vs that be of the feminine gender , but what strictnesse is this prescribed to our sex , that we should be bereued of our libertie , and so absolutely condemned of lightnesse in seeking to satisfie our lawful and honest desires , with what trampe be we tempered withall more then men , whereby wee should bee able to withstande the forces of the fleshe , or of power to resist the concupiscenses whiche Nature it self hath assigned , we bee tearmed to be the weaker 〈…〉 yet thei would haue vs more puissaunt , then either Sampson or Hercules : If man and woman bee made of one mettall , it must needes followe by consequence , we be subiect to like infirmitie , from whence commeth then this freedome , that men maie aske what thei desire of vs , be it neuer so leude , and wee maie not craue any thyng of them , that tendeth to good and honest pretence : It is termed to be but a mans parte that seeketh our dishonour , by leude and lawlesse lust , but to a woman it is imputed for lightnesse , to firme her lawfull likyng , with pure and loyall loue , if men will haue preheminence to doe euill , why should we be reproued for doyng well .

Wherevpon stande I then amazed with these fonde opinions , my loue is not vnlawfull , neither before God nor man , I loue Siluanus , whom I will take for my housbande , for otherwise to loue hym , my harte doeth not intende , therefore without any farther respite or delaie , I wil make my loue knowne vnto him , and the band of Mariage once confirmed betweene vs , shall couer the fault which men would deeme , neither shall my mynd be altered , either by the sugred perswasion of freendes , neither terrified with any threates , that maie bee thundered forthe by Parentes blusteryng wrath , I am not so farre ouerwhelmed with Pride , that in respect for the greatnesse of my Parentage , I should despise a Gentleman indued more with vertue then with riches , though there be some that be of this condition , that thei will soner preferre the greatnesse of birth , then the greatnesse of vertue , the aboundance of wealth , then the aboundance of witte , the perfection of beautie , then the perfection of the mynde , but I am out of the number of those women , whiche care more to haue their housbands purses well lined with money , whereby thei maie be maintained in their brauerie , or sometymes fixe their fancie vppon some yong man , that is of goodly personage , although voyd of vertue , qualitie , and good conditions , that ought to garnishe a Gentleman , and doeth more beautifie and enriche hym , then either the bare shewe of beautie , or any other giftes of Fortune , but I cannot imploye my loue vpon transitory treasure , when the 〈◊〉 of the mynde is cleane taken awaie : no no , it shall better content me to see a meane Gentleman beloued and praised of euery one for his vertues , then to marie amiser possessed with all the goodes of the worlde , hated and ill spoken of for his vices , Feare not then Valeria , to followe thy determination , and to put in proofe what thou hast pretended .

Here withall staiyng her self , she beganne to practise the meane , in what maner she might bewray her loue to Siluanus , seekyng for occasion and tyme meete for her purpose , and although there remained in her , a certaine naturall shamefastnesse , wherwith maidens are commonly accompained , which for a tyme did close her mouthe , and made her to deferre the tyme of her desolued mynd , yet in the ende throughly perswaded in her intent , she sent one of her Maidens , willyng Siluanus to come and speake with her ; about certaine affaires that she had to imploye hym : The maide hauyng finished her message , there could neuer more ioyfull newes happen to Siluanus , who entryng the Chamber of Valeria , with tremblyng harte after he had doen his reuerence , with greate feare and bashfulnesse saied , for that I vnderstande your Ladiship ha●● to employe me about certaine affaires , I shall thinke my sel● the moste happiest man in the worlde , if my trauaile and diligence , might any waies doe you seruice , bee it that ●erein I should offer or sacrifice myne honour or life , crauyng no greater benefite for the satisfaction of all my contentations , receiued in this world , then to serue , obey , and honour you , so long as my life doeth last .

The Ladie now , all rauished with ioye and contentation , perceiuyng by his chaunge of colour , the fault proceeded of vehement loue , takyng hym aside into a windowe , Loue had so closed vp her mouth , that she knew not how to beginne her tale , her mynd was so troubled , her wits so farr out of course , that her tongue failed to doe his office , in suche wise that she was not able to speake one onely worde .

He likewise perplexed with the like Feuer ▪ was now astonied to see the alteration of his Ladie .

Thus these twoo Louers , like twoo sencelesse Images , stoode still beholdyng eche other , without any maner of moouyng , in the ende the Ladie takyng courage in her self , with a tremblyng voyce , ioyned with a maidenlike shamefastnesse , began to saie as followeth .

Beyng assured ( my Siluanus ) of your discretion and wisedome , whiche Nature hath not onely indued you withall , but art hath also accomplished , what Nature beganne to woorke , I will therefore make no doubt at all , to lette you knowe the hidden secretes of my harte , neither will I goe aboute with circumstaunce to colour my woordes , but being well perswaded , that when you shall bothe heare and sauour my speeches , and therewithall sound the deapth of my deuises , you will easily coniecture , that my enterprises bee none other then iust , and that my alledged reasons , are grounded of good pretence , I thinke sithence your ariuall here in the Court of the Duke my father , you haue not seene me in any behauiour , otherwise then vertue doeth permitte , nor in any my demeanours exceedyng the boundes of modestie , otherwise then becommeth a maiden of my callyng , beyng descended of so worthie a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 if this be a faulte that beyng prouoked by the purenesse of my harte , and fidelitie of my good will , who to keepe the same inuiolable , doe voluntarily offer my self to the honest disposition of your iudgement , as it shall please you to conceiue of me , I haue then committed a fault in liking you too well , but I trust nothyng at all offended God , who knoweth the innocencie of my crime . Think not Siluanus , that I am the freend of Fortune , and practise pleasure alone without vertue , for it is modestie that commaundeth me , and honestie is the guide of my conceiptes , swearing and protesting by the Almightie God , that neuer man shall touche Valeria , except it be in Mariage , and he that otherwise would assaile me , I haue a harte that shall encourage my handes to sacrifice my life . And now Siluanus , if you will not thinke me more prodigall of my present , then your fancie will serue you to take in good parte , beholde , it is you that I haue chosen for my Spouse and loyall housband . And although I had determined to dissemble that , whiche now I haue laied open vnto you , yet reposing my self in your vertue and honestie , I trust I shall not haue cause to repent me , for any thyng that I haue either saied or doen.

Siluanus whiche all this while hearing this heauenly harmonie , with full assuraunce of that he moste wished for , albeit he sawe no possibilitie , how to bryng to passe this desired Mariage , yet determined not to refuse so greate a preferment , beyng so franke and liberally offered , aunswered in this maner .

I knowe not Madame , with what humilitie and reuerence I might receiue , and accept this your greate bountie and noblenesse , so graciously offered vnto me , I do acknowledge my condition and state too base , and that my loue may be thought to presume too farre beyonde the boundes of order , consideryng that my ignobilitie and birth , are no meete matches for suche a peerelesse Princes , yet this I dare boldly affirme , that if loue and entire affection borne to your Ladiship , might serue to counteruaile that defect , whiche by place of birthe the Destinies haue denaied me , I dare vndertake I should as well deserue to bee receiued , as he that is lineally descended from the greatest Monarchie of the world . The whiche loue if till this tyme I haue delaied to open , I beseeche you Madame , impute it to the greatnesse of your estate , and to the duetie of my callyng , but now for as muche as by your owne motion , grace , courtesie , and greate liberalitie the same is profered , and that of your owne bountie , it pleaseth you to accept me for yours : I humbly beseeche you , not to dispose of me as of a housbande , but as of one whiche both is , and shall be your seruaunt for euer . Thus saied , he takyng her by the hande , kissed it with greate deuotion , his tongue and wittes were so rapt and tied , as the Ladie perfectly perceiued this alteration , and seyng it to proceede of loue , replied on this maner .

Then my Siluanus , there needeth at this present no farther circumstaunce , but for that I am well assured , there are some that will be offended with my choice , but especially the Duke my father , who will conceiue some great displeasure against me : there resteth then that this our contract bee kept very secrete , vntill it please God to appoint the tyme , that the rest of our determinations , maie without daunger bee consummate and accomplished . In the meane tyme , trustyng that your desire is Godly , and that the freendshipp you pretende to beare me , is founded vpon vertue , and to be concluded by Mariage , receiue me for your Spouse and lawfull wife , you shall haue suche parte in me , as without any regarde to the obedience and duetie that I owe to my Parentes I am yours , beeyng readie and disposed to obeye you , so farre as my honour maie permit me .

These two louers now groundyng themselues , the one in the others fidelitie , could not so cunning ▪ dissemble and cloke their affections , but that it was easily perceiued by their secret glaunces , and countenaunces conueighed from the one to the other ( and as wee haue a Prouerbe ) ( it is ill haltyng before a creeple ) so there were many about the Court , that were so wel studied in the schoole of Loue , that thei were able to haue commenced Maisters of Arte , and could easily coniecture from whence those rowlyng lookes did proceed , that being now assured of that whiche before was but suspected , the brute was spread about the Court , of the loue that was betweene Siluanus and Valeria , that in the ende it came to the Duke her Fathers eare , who takyng the matter very greeuously , that his daughter to whom the inheritance of the Dukedome remained after his decease , should so meanely bestowe her loue of a fondlyng founde in the Woodes . And mindyng to finde a remedie for the matter , willed Siluanus that in paine of his life , within twentie daies he should departe the Courte , and neuer after to be seen within the iurisdictions of the Dukedome of Vasconia .

Valeria now hauyng intelligence what had happened , had no leasure to vexe or molest her self , when tyme rather required a speedie remedie , for the incounteryng of those mishaps , deuised with Siiuanus to conueigh her self awaie , contented rather to liue in the fellowship of an honest louing housband , with whom she should hold faithful and loyal companie , with what estate and Fortune so euer it might please GOD to appoincte , then to liue without hym , beautified with the graces and foolishe names of honour and preheminence .

Siluanus , contented to satisfie her desire , with the hazarde of his life , yeelded to her request , and before the twentie daies were expired , so cleanely conueighed hym self and Valeria awaie , that when thei were missyng , the Duke wist not which waies to sende after them . Wherefore in a great furie , he spared not to sende out great companies , whiche postyng euery waie , made enquirie and searche after them , but all in vaine : for Siluanus had so disguised hymself and Valeria , that without any maner of trouble , thei quietly passed the Countrey , and hauyng freede them selues from out the daunger of the Duke , desiring that the daie of their Mariage might now be prefixed , the whiche by mutuall consent , was presently determined , and by greate Fortune ( or rather conduction by the prouidence of God ) the● happened to arriue in the Countrey Village , where Duke Sappho that was father to Siluanus , had remained al this while Sexten of the Parish . In this Village , because it was a place free from resorte , whereby thei might remaine vnknowne , and in the better safetie , thei purposed aswel to celebrate their Mariage , as for a tyme to make their aboade , till matters were better quieted , and that thei migh● at leisure resolue , what course were best for them to take . Siluanus now hauyng conferred with the Prieste , the Mariag● daie was appoincted , where the poore Belringer takyng the vewe of this newe maried couple , fell in a great likyng of Siluanus , not for that he knewe him to be his sonne , for thereof he could haue no maner of suspition , aswell for that he deemed he had been deuoured in the Woodes , by some wilde beast , as also because his name was chaunged , but whether it were by the instigation or secresie of Nature , or otherwise by the will and pleasure of God , to bring to passe that , which afterwards happened in effect , this poore Sexten I say , lead by the secret motion of his owne affections , proffered Siluanus that if his seruice might any waies stande hym in steede ( for that he was a straunger in the place ) he should vse hym in any respect , and should finde hym readie to stande hym in suche steade , as his poore abilitie might any waies permit .

Siluanus in like case hauing forgotten his Father , beeing separated from hym in his infancie , yet nothyng despising his freendly offer , craued his helpe for the hieryng of a Chamber , for some reasonable rent , till tyme that he might better prouide for hymself . The Sexten very glad that he had so good oportunitie to pleasure him , brought him with his wife to his owne house , where he lodged hym in the best roome that he had , profferyng not onely his house , but all that was in it to be at their disposition and pleasure . This newe Married couple now gladdyng and sporting themselues , with all such sweete imbracementes , as thei can better describe , whiche haue been possessed with the like delightes : but as some wil saie , it is the mans parte to bee first wearied in those Venerall sportes , so Siluanus hauyng now well feasted hymself , with that sweete repaste , had leisure to bethinke hym of his owne estate : began inwardly to growe into great sorrowe and heauinesse , not so muche for hymself , as for his wife , who for his sake had disposest her self from so greate honour , abandonyng her freendes , contented to yeeld her self a thrall to Fortune .

These cogitations did so nippe hym , that he could not so well dissemble his greef , but that his wife perceiued some disquietnesse in his mynde , and therefore very greeuously she demaunded of hym , to shew her the cause of his discontentment , whiche by outward appearaunce , seemed inwardly so muche to molest hym .

Siluanus hearyng his Ladies request , aunswered in this wise , my deare wife , the sweetest companion that euer man did possesse , for so muche as you so earnestly desire to vnderstand , what it is that so much withdraweth my delightes , I will not let to bewraie the truthe , whiche is this , when I consider with my self , of your present estate and condition , who from the tip and height of dignitie , haue not spared for my sake to surrender your self , to become a subiect to all mishaps , besieged on euery side , with the future assaultes of ordinarie Fortune : It maketh me therefore to haue the greater care , by what meanes I might endeuour my self , to maintaine & continue your estate , though not according to your worthinesse and calling , yet according to your wel contentment and liking . And herevpon conceiuing in my head diuers imaginations , no meanes but one in my fancie seemeth best , whiche is , that I goe to the Court of the Emperour Claudius , who at this present is leading a great bande , to encounter the Turke , at whose handes I doubt not , but to receiue some good entertainment , and besides the honour and reputation , I maie gaine by good desert , I maie likewise reape suche liuyng and good likyng of the Emperour , that in despight of Fortunes teeth , wee maie liue hereafter a quiet and honourable life , to our greate ioye and comforte . But when I did consider the beloued companie of you deare wife , I feared to bewraie that , whiche now I haue disclosed , not knowyng in what parte you would take it , that I should so sodainly departe . Loe here the cause of my disquietnesse , whiche you desire so instantly to knowe .

The Ladie whiche was wise , perceiuyng the greate loue that her housbande did beare her , when he had staied hym self from talke , with glad and merie countenaunce , aunswered in this wise .

Ah Siluanus , the exampler of all vertue and gentlenesse , let death and fortune doe what thei list , for I coumpt my sel● more then satisfied of all that is past , by the onely enioiyng of your presence , contentyng my self to bee a partaker of your misfortunes , and haue no doubt but that I can so moderat my affections , that duryng my life , I will rest better contented with that which your abilitie wil permit be it neuer so meane , then otherwise to be honoured with names and titles of nobilitie in Princely state or porte hauing not your presence . Disquiet not your self therefore , but perseuer in your determination , and that sorowe whiche shall assaile me by reason of your absence , I will sweeten and lenefie with contentation to see your commendable desire appeased : and the pleasaunt memorie of your valiant factes shal beguile my pensiue thoughtes , hoping that our next meetyng shall be more ioyfull and glad , then this our partyng shall be either heauie or sad .

The Ladies aunswere did wonderfully quiet the mynd of Siluanus , and callyng his Hoste the Sexten vnto hym , whom he had made partaker of his determinations , he departed , leauyng his wife suche money and Iewelles as thei had remainyng : And commyng to the Courte of the Emperour Claudius , he was very well entertained , and the rather for that the Emperour had greate neede of men to supplie his Armie , whiche had sustained sondrie conflictes , and diuers ouerthrowes , for the Turke did wonderfully incroche vpon the Emperour , and had taken sondrie Cities , Tounes , and Castelles from hym , and was like still euery daie more to preuaile then other , that now the Emperour beganne to repent him , of the slender accoumpte he had made of Souldiours in the tyme of peace , for that he had too few that were sufficient to serue him in his Warres : For in steede of Experience , Valiaunce , and Policie ( whiche three ought to be gouernours , commaunders and cheef officers in a Campe ) he was glad to preferre Vainglorie , Foolishhardinesse , and Rashnesse : Simple sottes that were more fitter to waite in Gentlewomans chambers , then to be made Captaines , or leaders in the Warres .

The Emperour now standyng in greate distresse for want of men , for those that he had made greatest accompt of in the tyme of peace , were now able to stande him in no steede in the tyme of warres : and those that had braued it vp and doune the Courte in the newe cuttes , straunge fashions , their haire fri●●led , lookyng with suche grisly and terrible countenaunces , enough to make a wiseman beleeue thei were cleane out of their wittes , now in the tyme of Warres , were glad to runne vnder a Gentlewomans Farthyng all to hide them .

The Emperour ( I saie ) beeyng thus perplexed , called to his remembraunce the iniurie that he had doen Sappho , whom he had banished onely to satisfie the willes of those that were about him , whiche he knewe did hate him more of spight , then for any occasion the Duke had giuen . Without any farther delaie therefore , the Emperour sent sondrie messengers into euery parte of Christendome to make inquirie , that who so euer could finde the Duke , should bee worthily recompenced , and those Proclamations were spread through euery Region , in Citie , Towne , and Village . In so muche that in this Parishe where the Duke remained Sexten ( as you haue heard ) the Priest made inquirie on Sondaie in the Churche , as the custome is ) that where as about fourteene or fifteene yeres sithence , the Duke of Mantona was banished by the Emperor , whiche was procured rather by enuie , then for any deserte , as now it was proued , who so euer therfore could giue any intelligence of the same Duke , should be very liberally recompensed by the Emperour .

The Sexten now hearyng these newes , did thinke it more better to liue still in his Sextens roome , where he remained without enuie , then to become againe the Duke of Mantona , subiecte to the spite of hatefull persones . But callyng to his mynde his wife and daughter , which he thought remained yet aliue ( although he knewe not where ) and for the greate loue that he bare to Siluanus , whose wife remained in his house ( as you heard ) seyng that Fortune offered him so good oportunitie to pleasure them , onely for their sakes , resolued hymself to goe to the Emperour . But first comfortyng his gest Valerya , whom for a time he should leaue in his house , onely with suche seruauntes as her self had about her : he tolde her that he was well assured where to finde this Duke , that was so muche inquired after , and that he doubted not , ( if it were but in respect of his good newes ) he should worke Siluanus , her housbande into some credite with the Duke , who might likewise procure his better preferment with the Emperour .

And thus the Sexten departed , and with all conuenience came to the Courte of the Emperour , to whom when he had made hymself knowne , he was most honourably receiued and greate ioye and gladnesse was made throughout the whole Court : the Emperour now in consideration of the iniurie he had doen hym , did not onely restore hym to his former roome and dignitie , but also aduaunced hym in honour and estimation , to be preferred before all other next vnto hymself .

Thus after many benefites receiued of the Emperour , the Duke prepared hymself , accompanied with many his freendes , to goe to the Emperours Campe , of the whiche he was made Generall , where he knewe well how to behaue hymself , and giuyng out new ordinaunces , he appointed certaine such as he hymself knewe worthie , and gaue them charge , amongest the rest , seeyng Siluanus who all this while remained in the Campe , whom the Duke did very well knowe , although Siluanus , did little suspecte that a poore Sexten of a Parishe , should become a Generall to an Emperours Armie . The Duke perceiuyng hymself to be vnknowne to Siluanus , was contented so to remaine for a tyme , but yet desirous to sée what was in hym , he gaue hym the leadyng of certaine Horsemen , with the whiche Siluanus serued so valiauntly , and there with all had so happie successe , that euery man extolled vp to the heauens , the worthinesse of Siluanus . This pleased the Duke passyng well , and the Duke hauyng now sondrie tymes incountred with the power of the Turkes , and had giuen them many ouerthrowes , he was now preparyng a greate force , for the recouerie of the Citie of Cayoe , the whiche the Turkes had taken before from the Emperour . And callyng Siluanus vnto hym , he saied : God graunt yong Gentleman , that your ende agree with your good beginnyng , then makyng Siluanus to kneele he dubbed hym knight , and made hym Colonell of twentie Ensignes .

Siluanus after he had dooen his reuerence , thanked the Duke of the honour and fauour , whiche it had pleased hym to dooe hym , promisyng to dooe so well in tyme to come , as he should not bee deceiued in his conceiued opinion , whereof he gaue assured testimonie at the assaulte that was giuen to the Citie before mentioned , where he behaued hymself so valiantly , as he was the first that mounted vppon the walles , and by his dexteritie and inuincible force , made waie to the Souldiours in the breach , whereby thei entered and tooke the Citie , killyng and driuyng out their enemies before them . In many suche like attemptes Siluanus still shewed hym self so noble and valiaunt , that his praise and renowne was sounded in euery place .

The Duke now hauing recouered againe al suche Cities , Townes , and other Fortes , whiche the Turke had before taken from the Emperour , and there with all had banished the Turkes from out the boundes , and borders of the Empire , and a League agreed vppon betweene the Emperour and the Turke . The Armie beeyng broken vp , and Souldiours discharched , euery man well recompensed for his seruice , accordyng as he had deserued . Siluanus likewise , who by his worthinesse , hauing not onely made himself famous to the world , but also had well lined his purse with good store of golde , bethinkyng hym now of his faire Ladie , came to the Duke to haue taken his leaue , but the Duke mindyng now to performe the good that he ment to Siluanus , was resolued in his mynd , that Siluanus with his wife should bee his gestes , as well at Mantona where he was Duke , as thei had been before , where he was but a Sexten , saied to Siluanus as followeth .

Sir Knight , what hast is this , that you would so sodainly withdrawe your self from out my companie , belike you haue some faire wife , to whom you make suche speede to bee gone , but sir content your self to beare me companie to the Emperours Courte , where I doubte not but you shall receiue some better recompence for your seruice so happely begunne , for it is not requisite , but that the vertue of valiaunce , ought to bee rewarded and cherished by Princes , that bee aided in their necessitie , with the diligence of suche vertuous and noble Gentlemen as your self . Siluanus greatly conforted with these w●●●des of the Duke , was well pleased to waite vpon hym . Thus thei tooke their iourney towardes the greate Citie of Cherona , whiche was in the vttermoste borders of the Emperours Dominions , there the Duke purposed to staie a while , to recreate hymself with the rest of his companie .

Now it fortuned that the valiaunt actes , and hautie enterprises of Siluanus were so renowmed and spread , that the fame therefore came to the eares of the Duke of Vasconya , that was father to Valerya the wife of Siluanus , who with all possible speede made suche haste , that he came to Cherona , where he found Siluanus in the companie of the Duke of Mantona , to whom turnyng hymself , he saied as followeth .

Sir Duke , the onely hope that I haue , that you will not let to extende Iustice vpon the mischeeuous and vngracious actes of wicked men , doeth let me at this instaunt to forbeare with myne owne handes , to auenge the wrong that I assure my self , to haue receiued of this Traitour Siluanus .

The companie were wonderfully abashed with these wordes , but especially the Duke of Mantona , who loued Siluanus more dearely then any other .

But the other goyng still forwardes in his tale saied , if the harte breake that afflicteth the soule of a wofull father , whose house is made desolate by loosyng his childe , by the mischeeuous inticementes of a Theefe , if this president I saie , moue you not to minister suche speedie reuenge , as the Lawe doeth prescribe , I suppose that all impunitie of vice and sinne hath place on your behalf . And there withall staiyng his talke , but yet by his gesture and countenaunce so inraged , that he seemed like a man that were besides hymself .

The Duke of Mantona now perceiuyng the matter , that Valerya was the daughter of the Duke of Vasconia , whom he supposed to haue been of some meane birth and parentage , was wonderfully sorie for Siluanus , whose fact by the Lawe deserued death , and seyng the Duke in suche a furie , he wiste not by what meanes to worke Siluanus safetie , for to intreate the Duke he thought it but vaine , and to bryng Siluanus to aunswere the fact , he knewe the Lawe would condemne him , and therefore knowyng where Valeria did remaine , whom he knewe did loue Siluanus as her owne life , and thinkyng that her teares might lenifie and soften the hardened harte of the Duke her father . He therefore priuely sent for her , to bee brought immediatly to the Citie of Cherona , in the meane tyme he committed Siluanus into safe custodie , and desired the Duke at his request to staie himself a while , and he should haue suche Iustice on Siluanus , as hymself would require .

Matters beeyng thus pacified for a while , I will in like case let them rest for a time , and will now discourse how it befell to the Duchesse Messilina , with her daughter Phylene .

You haue heard before how by constraint of weather at the Sea , thei were driuen to this Citie of Cherona , where the Duke now remained , and at her first comming , fallyng to her woorke as before she had doen at Taryffa , a riche Marchaunt that dwelt in the Towne , takyng the vewe of this new come workewoman , fell into so great a likyng with her , that onely to haue accesse to come into her companie , he bestowed more money in cloath to make hym Shirtes and Handcarchifes in one weeke , then he was able to weare out in three yeares after , whiche he put to her to make , whereby he became something well acquainted with her , but to the ende that she might thinke her self somethyng the better beholdyng vnto hym , he proffered her a more conuenient house then that she was in , whiche he would furnishe with all maner of housholde stuffe for a reasonable rent . She beeyng very glad of so good an offer , became his Tenaunt . The Marchaunt now perceiuyng his tyme did so well serue hym , without any greate circumstaunce , declared vnto her the great good will he bare her , but Messilina so delaied hym with suche wise and reasonable aunswers , that from tyme to tyme the Marchaunt hymself could not importunatly craue that whiche with suche modestie , she so honestly denaied hym .

Now there laie in this Citie of Cherona , the old Dutches of Petrona , who hauing inteligence of Messilina to be so good a workewoman , she sent for her , to whom she put sondrie parcelles of worke , whiche she so well finished to the liking of the Dutches , that from tyme to tyme she still plide her with the like , whereby Messilina , with her daughter Phylene , had continuall recourse to the Pallas of the Dutches , where Arabianus the onely sonne of the Dutches of Petrona , ( and inheritour of the Dukedome , but that he was vnder age ) did marke and beholde the beautie and good grace of this yong Seamester Phylene , was so clogged and fettered in the bandes of loue , that all other thoughtes seemed lothsome vnto hym , and euery other ioye displeasaunt , in respect of the pleasure that he suffered , by thinkyng of his faire Phylene , wherefore baityng himself with hope , and tickled onely by loue , he determined what soeuer happened to loue her .

Whiche beeyng perceiued by his Mother , she began very sharpely to rate hym , blamyng hym that would so indiscretly place his loue , not waiyng his estate and birthe , as come of Princely race , and now would make hym self a fable to the worlde , to like of suche a one so farre vnworthie his degree .

Arabianus fallyng doune vppon his knees , moste humbly desired his Mother to beare with all that was paste , and although it were truth that she had saied , that he deemed her for her birthe to bee vnworthie his degree , yet she deserued for her beautie to bee compared to the greatest Dame , and brauest Minion els where . And whereas other girles by artificiall meanes and trumperies , doe inforce that whiche the heauens haue denaied them , yet Phylene had no other ornament then that whiche Nature had inlarged in her : and otherwise for her vertue , wisedome , and modestie , he knewe it to be suche by reporte of many , as she might bee a Lanterne to the greatest Dame that liued .

Notwithstandyng Madame , for so muche as you doe take my facte in so ill parte , consideryng the reuerence , that I owe to the place whiche you holde on my behalfe , and the duetie and obedience that God will and hath commaunded , that children should beare to those that haue begotten and borne them : if it please you to pardon me of this that is past , I protest that from henceforth , I will be more wise and better aduised , how I enter into any thyng that might turne to any suche consequence , or any maner of waies to offende you .

The Dutches knowyng all to bee true that her sonne had saied , very well pleased with his speeches , remained satisfied , thinkyng in her mynde in deede , that if Phylene had bin the Daughter but of some meane Gentleman , her sonne should neuer haue sought farther for a wife .

From this tyme forwards , although Arabianus by the perswasion of his Mother , had vowed to reuolt and let slippe the loue that he bare to Phylene , yet he could not so clearely loose his likyng , but that he did manifest some part of his good wil , by giftes and good countenaunces whiche still he bestowed vpon Phylene , causing his Mother likewise to bestowe many liberall rewardes vppon Messilina , thus the Mother and the Daughter perceiued them selues a thousande tymes beholdyng to the olde Dutches and her sonne .

In this meane space the Marchaunt before mentioned had buried his wife , and knowyng no other but that M●ssilina his Tenaunt had been a widowe , he began now a freshe sute , and with greate importunitie requested her in the waie of Mariage , and so hardly he laied vnto her , that Messilina not knowyng otherwise how to rid hym , co●fessed vnto hym that she had a housbande aliue and therefore might not marie .

The Marchaunt thinkyng these to be but delaies to shift hym of , came to this point , that if hereafter he could proue her by her owne confession to bee a widowe , that then before witnesse she would take hym for her lawfull housbande , and till that tyme he would no farther trouble her till he had made his proofe , she beeyng glad to bee at rest , thinkyng that he should woorke very wisely to make her confesse her self to bee a widowe , agreed to his request , and witnesse was had in the matter . The Marchaunt now lettyng his matter rest a tyme for his better purpose , in the ende comming vnto her , he told her , that although she were so discourteous to forsake his freendshippe in euery respect , first in the waie of good fellowshippe , and after in the waie of Marriage , whereby he was driuen to goe seeke farther , but now hauyng found a wife in the Countrey , to whom he was assured , and ment presently to bee married , yet for the old freendshippe that he bare her , consideryng that he would presently remaine in the Countrie altogether , and forsake the Citie , therefore for her better securitie , and assuraunce of her dwellyng , he would make her a Lease of the house that she dwelt in , for one and twentie yeres , if it might doe her any pleasure , without paiyng any penie Income .

Messilina giuyng hym greate thankes , tooke his offer verie courteously , and the Lease was put to making , whiche the Marchaunt signed and deliuered , and herewithall desired her single Obligation , for the performaunce of some small rente , were it neuer so little , that she might acknowledge hym to be her Landlorde , the whiche she neuer denaied to giue .

The Obligation was made in this maner , Knowe all men by these presentes , that I Messilina Widowe , and so forthe , with wordes in maner and forme of euery Obligation . This Obligation thus made , was signed and deliuered by Messilina to the Marchaunte , who had now gotten that so long he had sought for , and by vertue of this Obligation , craued Messilina to bee his wife , she denaiyng his demaunde , but what could that preuaile , when he had her owne hande and seale to shewe , whereby she confessed her self a Widowe , and then by her owne agrement ( as you haue heard before ) she must yeeld her self to be his wife .

This matter was long in fendyng & prouyng , in so muche that the Duke beyng now in the Toune , ministeryng of Iustice to suche as would craue it , the Marchaunte brought the matter before the Duke , who hearyng the maner of the Bargaine , and so many witnesses to affirme the same , gaue Sentence that the Marchaunte ought in deede to haue her . But Messilina fallyng at the feete of the Duke , desiring him with teares to deferre his Iudgement : the Duke now takyng better vewe of the woman , knowyng her bothe by her voice , and also by lookyng well on her face , perceiued assuredlie that it was his owne wife , he called againe to the Marchaunt to see obligation , whiche when he had receiued , he said in this maner .

Maister Marchaunt , this obligation whiche you haue deliuered me , now I haue perused with better aduise , I finde it to bee neither sufficient nor lawfull , for this woman that you would make a Widowe , without doubt is Married , and hath a housebande , now she beeyng vnder couert barne , you Obligation is vnpleadable , and I knowe not whom you should blame , whether your self , or the Scriuener . And here withall beyng replete with great ioye and gladnesse , taking his wife vp in his armes , verie louinglie imbraced her , he saied .

Ah my deare and louing Wife , how muche am I bounde , to render innumerable thankes to the almightie GOD , that when all hope was paste , haue yet againe recouered my greatest hope and comfort . Messilina likewise perceiuyng her lord and housebande , clasping her handes aboute his necke , was not able to speake a woorde for ioye and contentation : The companie that stoode by , amazed to see this sodaine happe , were likewise verie ioyfull to see this freendly meeting . The Marchaunt seeyng how he had been deceiued , tare his Obligation , and departed all ashamed . The Duke now desirous to see his Daughter Philene , caused her Mother to sende for her , who not knowyng her Father , otherwise then by report , fell doune on her knees to craue his blessyng : The Duke taking her vp , kissing her with Fatherlie affectiou , could not stay his teares , in remembring her brother Aurelianus , whom he deemed to be dedde .

These newes were sodainly spred throughout the Citie of Cherona , in so muche that Arabianus hauyng now intelligence , that Philene was the daughter of the noble Duke Sappho , certifiyng his Mother the truthe whiche he had learned , without any greate deliberation , bothe the Mother and the sonne , comming to visite the Duke and his companie , where thei were verie well welcomed , but especially to Messilina , to whom the old Duches and her Soonne , bothe had been verie bountifull : And when a while thei had passed the tyme with pleasaunt discourses of all that had passed , the Duches of Petrona craued Philene in Marriage for her Sonne . The duke beyng made priuie to the matter , knowyng Arabianus to bee come of greate discent , and to bee indued with large and faire possessions , seyng hym likewise to bee a toward yong Gentlemanne , would not stande against it , but referred the matter to his Daughters likyng . Philene who had been greatly bound to the courtesie of the yong Duke , and had receiued many giftes and good turnes at his handes , would not do as a nomber of these nise Dames , that will many tymes make daintie of that thei would fainest come by , gaue her free consent . There was then no more to dooe , but to prepare for the Marriage , whiche was presently solemnized with great pompe & glory .

By this Valeria ( whom as you haue heard before , the duke had sent for ) was come to Cherona , who was priuely lodged by the Dukes commaundemente , in a priuie place . The daie now beyng come , that Siluanus was brought to his answere , he could not denaie the facte wherewith he was charged , but that he had stolne Valeria from her father , by whiche confession the Lawe condemned hym to dye . There were many that knewe the noblenesse of Siluanus , that began to entreat the Duke or Vasconia to remitt the facte , but all in vaine , for the more thei entreated , the more he hastened to see execution .

The Duke of Mantona seeyng his greate obstinacie , did thinke it hye tyme to finde a remedie for Siluanus , if it might bee , therefore he saied , sir Duke , were it possible that this condemned manne , who is like ( so farre as I can see ) to beare the whole brunte , and yet might bee enticed to this facte by your Daughters meanes , or at the least , your daughter muste bee halfe partner of this fault , and yeelded with her good will to come awaie , for otherwise it had been unpossible for hym , to haue brought her from out your Courte , whiche if it bee true , if you will needes see Iustice so duely executed in the one , I can not see how your daughter can goe quite , but must bee as well partaker of the punishement , as she was in the facte , by yeeldyng her consent .

The Duke of Vasconia aunswered , as it is the office and duetie of euery good Iusticer , to knowe the valour and difference , betweene vertue and vice , to the ende that all vertuous actes maie be honoured , and the contrarie chastised and punished : Otherwise he is not worthie the name of a righteous Iudge , but of a cruell and traiterous Tiraunt , wherefore sir Duke , you sittyng here in the place of Iustice , to minister equitie and right , to euery one that calleth . Then I desire that I maie haue the Lawe extended vpon this wretche Siluanus , as for my daughter that you speake of , as I knowe not where she is , so I doe not desire to learne what is become of her , but this I protest , that if euer I maie finde her , rather then she should escape vnpunished , I will not let with mine owne handes , to do execution vpon her , according to her demerites , and the filthinesse of her fact : from henceforthe denouncing her to be any childe of mine , and make no better accoumpt of her , otherwise then to be a filthie strompet , vnworthie of me her father , or to chalenge her descent from suche a stocke .

The Duke of Mantona was now troubled worse then before , for where as he had some hope , that the humble sute of Valeria , should something haue moued her father to compassion , 〈◊〉 thought that her sight , would rather increase his rage and furie : Againe he thought , that to bring her into his presence , if he continued in one moode , he might woorke Valeria so greate preiudice , as hee would be hartelie sorie to see . Yet thinking with himself , that it was impossible , that a Father should bee voide of good Nature , to see the vtter ruine of his childe without any remorse : He caused Valeria to bee sent for , who beyng conducted to the place , seyng her Father and the reste of the companie , she beganne to coniecture that all was not well . But when Siluanus sawe his Valeria , wondering by what meanes she was brought to so euill a banquett , remembryng what wordes her father before had protested , she began with a piteous voice to crie out .

O my deare beloued wife , the onelie cause of my ioye and quiet , what euill Fortune hath conducted thee to this place , what froward Faates haue forced thee , that thou shouldest be made companion of my mishappes . O fraile and inconstaunt Fortune , how hast thou fronted my honest desires , with suche crooked spight , that where I couet the countenance of greatest credite , there I am forced to hazard the losse of life and alwhat crooked aspecte hath gouerned my proceadinges , that the hoped time I spente in this Warlike seruice , should thus conclude with his contrarie , and I forced as it were by Faate to followe the vnhappie euent of the same , wherein I doe confesse my Predestinate follies . But suche are the so●derie dealinges of this life , as those that tende their steppes to monsterous mountaines , doe sometime scarce conclude with meane Moole hilles , the sondrie conflictes of Fortune , masking my hope with a shewe of happie rewarde , hath not onelie wracked me , but it threateneth the sequell of worse successe : That instead of happie and quiet life , my daies shal bee a bridged with moste shamefull and vile Death . O Valeria , Valeria , the ioye and comfort of my life , I shall no more see that incomparable beautie of thine , whiche darkeneth and obserueth the Raies and Beames of the Sunne .

Then tourning himself to the Duke of Vasconia , he saied , I moste humblie beseeche your Grace , to haue compassion vpon me , not for that I would consume my life in your displeasure , I make offer of the same to your mercifull will and disposition , choosing rather to die , and to leaue your Grace satisfied and contented , then to liue a happie life , your Princelie minde displeased , and albeit , the right good intent , and vnstained conscience is free from faulte , yet the iudgement of men hath farther relation , to the exteriour apperance , then to vertues force . Is it a sinne to Marrie ? Is it a faulte to flie and auoide the sinne of Whoredome ? What Lawes bee these then , where the Marriage bed and ioyned Matrimonie , is pursued with like seueritie , as Murther , Thefte , Adultrie . But seyng the fault of this mishap , to a rise by my predestinate euill luck I moste humblie beseeche you , to mitigate your rage , and to conceiue no sinister opinion of this your worthie daughter , whose smallest greef , is my double paine : as for my self I am well pleased with my misfortune , contented to Sacrifice my life , onelie to receiue your cleare acquitaunce for my offence , and will make satisfaction with the price of my blood .

The Duke of Vasconia bending his browes , aunswered : No Traitour no , it is not thy life that shall appease my furie , but I will so coole the Whorishe heate of your Minion , for whom you seeme so muche to pleade , that I will make her an example to all others , for dooyng of an acte so detestable . But what abuse haue thei committed , vnder the title of Marriage , thinkyng without remorse of conscience , by that meanes to continue their mischeef , and their promise and faithe , that was made vnder a Bushe , muste serue for a cloake and Visarde for their moste filthie Whoredome . But what if their Marriage were concluded , and confirmed by God hymself ? Is Siluanus a manne worthie to be alied , or mingled with the roiall blood of the house of Vasconia , no , no , I vowe I will neuer take sounde nor restfull sleepe , vntill I haue dispatched , that infamous facte from our blood , and that villaine Whoremonger with his trull , be vsed accordyng to their desertes .

Valeria now knowyng how matters were sorted out , and hearyng this cruell Sentence , pronounced by her Father , fel doune vpon her knees , and bitterly criyng out , she saied : My deare father , moste humblie I beseche yon , sith no other thing maie appease your ire , then the life of the offender , let not this Gentleman abide the penaunce of that , whiche he neuer committed , be reuenged on me , by whom the faulte ( if a womans faithe to her housebande , maie be termed a fault ) is doen. And let this infortunate Gentleman depart , who God knowes is innocente of any other crime , then what he was brought into , onely by my prouocation . And as she was aboute to haue proceded farther in her talke , her Father interrupted her , saiyng .

Haue you founde your tongue now pretiepeate , then wee must haue an Almon for Parrat : how durst thou Strompette chalenge me to bee thy Father ? That without regard , either of my renowme , or of the honour of my house , thou art content to bee abandoned from this noble Estate , and to become a Fugitiue and a straunger , to followe a Roge vp and doune the Countrey , no Minion no , thinke not that any Feminine ●latterie , shall stay me from doyng thee to death , nor your darlyng that standes by you , shall escape with his life , verelie beleeuyng , that in tyme it shall bee knowne , what profite the worlde shall gaine , by purgyng the same of suche an infecte● plague : and I do hope besides this , that in tyme to come , men shall praise this deede of myne , who for preseruyng the honor of my house , haue chosen rather to do to death twoo offenders then to leaue the one of them aliue , as lesse faultie or giltlesse then the other .

Valeria once againe fallyng frustrate before her Father , saied : I moste humblie beseche you , for that all other comfort is denaied me , that I maie craue this onely grace at your handes , for the laste good that euer I hope to receiue , whiche is , that you beeyng thus greeuouslie offended with me , doe vengeaunce at your pleasure vpon her , who willinglie yeeldeth her self to the Death , with the effusion of her blood , to satisfie your ire , graunt onely that Siluanus , who is innocent and free from fault , maie goe quite .

But her father no longer able for anger to heare her speak , crieth out to the Duke , to hasten the execution , the Duke of Mantona , whose harte did bleede in his beallie for sorrowe , perceiuyng it follie to delaye longer tyme , gaue Sentence of death , and present execution to be made , although he tooke so greate sorrowe for theim , as if his Daughter Philene should haue borne them companie : but he was not able to help it , the lawes and ordinaunces of the Countrie would not otherwise permitt . And thinking to take his laste farewell of Siluanus , he saied : O Siluanus , the glorie and honor of all yong Gentlemen that euer wer , that be now , or shal be hereafter this , whose vertue , valliaunce , and worthie exploites , doe glister emongst the multitude , as the Sunne beames doe vpon the cirquet of the Yearth . Oh that thy hard Fortune should conduct thee to suche distresse , that onelie by thine owne valiaunce and prowesse , haste escaped so many daungers , emongst thy thronged enemies , and now thy ruine and ouerthrowe , should bee thus wrought , amiddest thy assured freendes , that knowes not how to helpe it . What heapes of cares hath besieged me on euerie side ? To thinke that I should craue thy companie , whereby thou art brought into the middest of so great mischeef , whiche otherwise mightest haue escaped this mishappe : and thou Valeria would God thy vnfortunate hoste , whiche departed from thee , thinking to doe thy housebande pleasure , had remained with thee a poore Sexten still , till this present daie .

The rest of the companie that stoode by , hearyng the duke to make so greate lamentation , was likewise striken into a meruailous greef and sorowe , in so muche that euery one that durste speake , cried to the Duke of Vasconia for pardon , and that he would remitt the offence , and what pitie it were , if he should seeke the death of so noble a Gentleman , as Siluanus had shewed hym self to be : But the Duke perseueryng still in one minde , asked them , with what face thei could make request for a verlet of no reputation , whom he had found in the wooddes , and brought hym vp to that estate he was come to , not knowyng who was his Father , but by seemyng some poore Countrie Cloune , and forgettyng himself from whence he sprong , neglecting so many benefites , which he had bestowed vpon hym , would enter into those thinges , so farre vnseemely and exceading his degree .

The Duke of Mantona , giuing good eare to this tale , remembring his Sonne Aurelianus , whom he had luste in the Woodes aboute those partes , questioned with the Duke , of the time , and what apparell the childe had on at that present , who in all thinges shewed a trothe as it was : He demaunded farther , how he knewe his name to be Siluanus , or whether he had any other name , yes ( quoth the Duke of Vasconia ) his name he saied was Aurelianus , whiche my self changed to Siluanus , because I founde him in the Woodes .

Herewithall without any farther staie , the Duke of Mantona running hastely vpon Siluanus , imbrasyng him in his armes , criyng : O my sonne , my sonne , and with this sodain ioy , the teares trickling doune his cheekes so faste , that he was not farther able to speake one worde .

The Duke of Vasconia muche amazed to see this sight , but a greate deale more gladde , that Siluanus had founde out suche a father , and now nothing at al offended with his daughters choice , came likewise with chearfull countenaunce , and imbrased Siluanus , desiring dothe the Duke his Father , and hymself to forgiue what was past , and takyng Valerya by the hande , he deliuered her to Siluanus , promisyng hym for her dowrie 40000. Franckes in golde presently to bee paied , and after his descease to remaine for his inheritour .

Siluanus better pleased with Valeria her self , then with all the rest that was promised , gaue hym greate thankes , and so did the Duke his father .

All the companie were replenished with the greatest ioye that might be , to see this sodaine sight , and thus thei departed to the Pallas where the Duke kept his abode , where Siluanus was welcomed , to his mother , to his sister , to Arabianus , and to all the rest , where there was greate feastyng and triumphe , and a bonde of euerlastyng amitie betweene the houses of the Duke of Mantona , the Duke of Vasconya , and the Duke of Petrona , and after a while thei had feasted and sported them selues , thei rode altogether in companie to the Emperours Courte , who receiued them with so greate honour as he could deuise , and making himself a partaker of their mirth , wonderyng to here the hole discourse how thynges had happened , when after a while he had feasted them , and shewed them as greate pleasures as might be deuised , he bestowed of them all large and bountifull giftes , but especially of the two yong Ladies Valerya and Phylene , and this agreeing amongest themselues , to meete once a yeare at the least to sporte and make them selues merrie , for this season thei departed , euery one where it liked them best .