This melancholy News was soon spread over the whole Kingdom. TheKofiransseem'd quite stupified at it; they fell into an inexpressible Grief and Consternation at the Thoughts of losing such a Sovereign, and atsuch a Juncture. The Queen, who by this Time had seen her Folly, and heartily repented of the superstitious Credulity, by which she had lost the Embraces of a real Husband in seeking those of an imaginary one, left her Palace, and, prompted by Grief and Love, flew to the sick King. She was still in Hopes, that the Deity meant only to alarm the Nation; and therefore she was for forwarding by her Presence, and deserving by her kind Offices, the happy Return of his Affection, which she did not doubt would be the Effect of this Correction. All the People used to gather about the Governor ofKofir's House, and flock to the Palace, where Expresses arriv'd every Hour, shewing such Concern, that their Fate seem'd to depend on the Death or Recovery ofZeokinizul. Never was there such an universal Affliction; never was a Father more lamented by affectionate Children. They looked at each other with Tears in their Eyes, and could not speak for sighing. Paleness and Dejection sat on every Countenance. The Artificers had no Heart to work. All Diversions and Shews were suspended, and that vast and splendid City, which seemed the Center of Gaiety and Pleasure, was now changed into a general Scene of Silence and Melancholy. Yet it was observed, that theImansandDervisesdid not in the least sympathize with this publick Consternation. Some will be apt to imagine, that these pious Men had a divine Intimation that the King would not die. But whoever knows them, will much rather conclude,that, like Physicians who are never better pleased than in Times of general Sickness, they only concealed a selfish Joy under the Mask of an affected Calmness; and it is really scarce credible what Advantage they drew from this public Calamity. The King, being given over by the Physicians, seemed to be lost without miraculous Relief from Heaven, and as the meanest of his Subjects was not wanting in his Endeavours to procure it, so thatSesems, which in that Country are Devotions of about a Quarter of an Hour, perform'd by theImans, are known to have risen to such an Extortion, as not to be said under twoTomanseach.
During the first Days of his Illness,Lenertoulanever left the royal Patient's Bed, who also protested, that Death had nothing bitter to him, but the leaving his Mistress and his Subjects. But no sooner was the Monarch sensible of his desperate Condition, than a Cloud of awful Ideas broke in upon his Mind. The Principles he had imbibed by Education, revived in his Conscience. He reflected on all his Conduct to the present Time, and the Thoughts of his being on the Point of passing into another Life, impress'd on him strongly the Conditions on which his Religion offers eternal Happiness. AllKelirieu's Care to conceal these penitential Dispositions, could not hinder their being known among the Courtiers. TheKam Kertras, Grandson to theKamofAnserol, late Regent, at the Instance of his Father, who was a very religious Prince, resolv'd to make Use ofthem, in order to restore the Queen to her Rights, and deprive the wickedLenertoulaof her Usurpations. Taking with him aMollak, equally venerable for his Birth and Piety, he went to the sick King's Apartment.Kelirieuknowing how much it concerned both him and her whom he served to hinder this Visit, dared to refuse them Admittance, under Pretence that the King was going to sleep, and would see no Body. Although theKamand theMollakplainly saw through the Deceit, yet Regard to the melancholy Juncture, made them quietly withdraw, in Hopes of a more lucky Opportunity, which yet they never would have found, had they contented themselves with such Excuses. They returned the same Day, andKelirieugave them the same Answer, which provoked the young Duke beyond Measure, being naturally very fiery. What, said he, with a threatning Air, shall you, who are no better than a Lacquey, dare to deny Admittance to your Master's nearest Relation? and at once kick'd open the Door, and went forward into the Apartment, followed by theMollak.
UponZeokinizul's asking the Meaning of that Noise and Bustle,Kelirieu, who had acted without any such Orders from him, durst not make any Answer, but the youngKam, whose Heat was not over, gave the King such an Account of it, as made him very angry; for he not only condescended to ask theKam's Pardon, but forbadKelirieuhis Presence. The judiciousMollaklaid holdof that Instant to discourse of the Concerns of his Conscience to the dying Monarch; and as his own Reflections, had beforehand suggested preparative Ideas of it, he was the sooner brought to the wished for Contrition and Repentance.
The Behaviour of theMollakis certainly very praise-worthy, but it would have been much more so, if after having, with a truly Apostolic Zeal, pathetically represented to the Sovereign the Enormity of his Crimes, the Certainty of his Death, and the Punishments to be dreaded after such a licentious Life, he had stopp'd at bringing him to a due Sense of Things, and strengthening him in such a pious Disposition, but he shewed more Zeal than Discretion, for his Devotion being sharpened with Resentment, made him imagine, that he was ruiningLenertoulabeyond Retrieve; whereas he was, in Reality, doing nothing less than paving the Way for her greater Exaltation, in Case the King recovered.
Thus, under a Pretence that true Repentance required more than a Detestation of what was past, and guarding against future Relapses, he signified toZeokinizul, that it was still his farther Duty to make some signal Satisfaction for the Offence which he had given to the whole Kingdom. That in order thereto, he must disapprove and abrogate all his Grants and Favours toLenertoula.Zeokinizul, who now was intent only upon dying in the Religion of his Ancestors, pleasing his People, and carrying their Esteem as well as theirGrief with him to the Grave, complied with all theMollak's Injunctions, orderedLenertoulato be immediately dismissed the Court, with a Prohibition from ever appearing in his Presence.
Having thus settled all the Affairs of his Conscience,Zeokinizulbecame senseless, so that he was thought dead by all his Attendants. But this sudden Alteration was the happy Crisis which saved his Life. During this Interval of Inanition, the Mind recover'd its former Situation, and freed itself from all its Anxieties. The Body performed its Functions, and the Passages which all the Art of the Physicians could not relax, opened of themselves, which was followed by such copious Evacuations as saved the Patient. This joyful News spread itself rather quicker than the other, so that it was as soon known atKofirthat the King was out of Danger, as that there was no Hopes of his Recovery.
In the mean Time, the Queen arrived. She made Use of theMollak's pious Impressions, and tho' her Austerities and Vexations, together with her advanced Age, had rendered her no tempting Spouse, yet the kind and grateful Monarch was so taken with her Tenderness and Diligence, that he vowed, that from this Time his Heart should be her's, and her's alone. But that Man knows himself but very little, when he is in Danger; and that the Assurances of Amendment which he then makes, are weak and transitory when he has recover'd his Health,is what the Sequel of this History will abundantly demonstrate.
Zeokinizulwas soon perfectly recovered, and then his Generals whose Ardour had been restrain'd by Fear and Grief, soon made their Enemies feel, that their King was restored to them, for they forced them to repass theNhirwith considerable Loss; and the most Skilful in Military Affairs do not scruple to affirm, than if theKofiranshad not been headed by a General prudent even to a Fault, not so much as a single Soldier would have been left to have given the Queen ofGhinoeran Account of their Expedition. This General so deficient in the ardent Bravery of his Country, was call'dLeosanil; he was afterwards disgraced, and though his Age was still fit for Military Functions, he was taken into the Cabinet, which was a fitter Theatre for his Abilities; for there being out of the Reach of Swords and Guns, and left to undisturbed Reflection, his Advice and Schemes were of excellent Service. I now shall leaveZeokinizulin the pure Embraces of his Consort, and preparing to besiege a Place of Strength, to followLenertoulain her Disgrace.
She did not betray any great Confusion, whenZeokinizul's harsh Order was notified to her; but she little knew what she was to go through upon the Road. She took a travelling Chariot, accompanied by her Sister, and followed by a few Domestics. Here was an Instance of such Strokes with which Fortunenow and then seems to warn the Insolent and Ambitious. After having led her Favorites to the Altars to be worshipped like petty Deities, she afterwards drags them thither to be sacrificed like fatened Victims.
This Woman, who lately saw the most illustrious among theKofiranscringe at her Feet, and practise the basest Submission to obtain only a single Look, now sees herself exposed to the contemptuous Insults of the very Meanest; the whole Nation combining to plant Daggers in her Heart by their Reproaches and Shouts at her Downfal. It having been whispered among the Country Folks, thatLenertoulahad occasioned the King's Illness, and they being possess'd of a Notion, propagated by her Enemies, that she had been bribed to poison the King, crowded all the Roads in her Way, loading her with Curses and Invectives, threatning to tear her to Pieces, had they not thought it would be a more galling Punishment to her Pride, to let her pass on amidst the same Hisses and Outrages of their Fellows, for above eighty Leagues successively. It was next to a Miracle that she escaped with her Life, for she was put to all Manner of Shifts and Precautions to deceive these furious Clowns who vowed to revenge their King; whenever she came near any Town, she stopp'd above half a League off, whilst one of her Out-riders went before to take fresh Horses, and observe the Bye-roads, that thus she might avoid the Tumults of the Inhabitants. At last she reach'dKofir, which she found disposed toreceive her in the same rough Manner as the Country had done. The whole Nation appeared determined against her. One Day she happened, a little indiscretely, to take the Air in her Chariot, while the Streets were full of People, who were celebrating the happy Recovery of their King with all Kinds of Sports and Rejoicings. Possibly she might flatter herself, that the easyKofiransseeing her appear Abroad to join in the publick Festivity, would relinquish the Suspicions they had harbour'd against her. But they were too inveterate, and the Event was quite different, for had it not been for the Dexterity of her Coachman, and the Swiftness of her Horses, she had infallibly fallen a Victim to the Fury of the Populace. This hazardous Experience of their Malice, brought her to lead a Life atKofirvery different to her Inclinations, being ashamed to shew herself in any Assembly, where she must have been their Jest and Scorn, and much less daring to appear in the public Walks. When she was not shut up in her Palace, she used to amuse herself for a while in a Garden, which, tho' one of the finest in allKofirwas the least frequented. Here it was that such a mortifying Accident befel her, as exceeded all the rest, and which sensibly shewed her how low she was fallen from her former Grandeur.
It was as follows: An Officer who, tho' her Relation, had not felt the happy Influences of her Favour, because he never made himself known to her, which renders his Impoliteness, I may even say, his Brutality inexcusable,resolving to give the finishing Stroke to her Anguish.
According to the gallant Custom of theKofirans, he politely approached towardsLenertoula, who was taking an Evening Walk, in Company with her melancholy Sister, and wished for nothing more than for a third Person to join them, whose Chearfulness might help to dissipate the continual Gloominess of her Temper. After the first Compliments, which are not short among this ceremonious People, the Gentleman entertain'd the Ladies with the most refined Gallantry. He expressed himself in so graceful and charming a Manner, that they were both infinitely taken with his Conversation.Lenertoula, that he might talk more at Ease, desired him to sit down by her upon a Bank of Turf, and after some Questions on the Condition of his Fortune, offered him her Services, if needful, for its Improvement. This Person, of all Men the most rude and brutish, for he was insulting over the Disgrace of an unfortunate Woman, who was extremely desirous of obliging him, and had made him an Offer of an unusual Generosity. He gave her a full Answer to the first Article. "I was a general Officer in the King's Army, said he to her, where I served honourably for twenty Years. But having been injured by the Ministry, I retired to my Estate, with which and some small Marks of Distinction, which could not be denied my long Services, I live contented." "But my Lord," interruptedLenertoula, who was for knowinghow she stood in the Thoughts of People of Quality, "I am surprized that you never address'd yourself to the Favourite, in order to obtain, by Means of her Interests, the just Reward of your Services. She took a Pleasure in countenancing Merit, and certainly such as yours would have engag'd her Favour." "I, Madam," replied the Officer, with Indignation, "should I make a Prostitute my Refuge? I am her Relation, and it is the only Blot that I know of in our Family. I am too tender in Point of Honour, to hold any Thing from the Hands of a Woman, who has so notoriously trampled it under her Feet." At thisLenertoulawas indeed as one thunder-struck. She endeavoured several Times to make some Reply to this ungrateful Officer; but her Voice failed her. He left them, and her Sister was obliged to call her Slaves to lead her to her Chariot, in order to carry her back to her Palace.
Zeokinizul, in the mean Time, had crowned his Campaign, by taking the important Fortress he had besieged. His Soldiers encouraged by his Presence, had at once surmounted Nature, Art, a severe Season, and the Efforts of a numerous and brave Garison. Having now nothing to do but repose himself under his Laurels, he returned towards his Capital. Then it was that his Subjects, in an Extacy of Loyalty, were seen to prepare him a Reception answerable to their Love, and present the most affecting and pleasing Sight to the Eyes of a Monarch,who aimed more at reigning over their Hearts, than subduing them by Fear. If the News of his Sickness had dispirited them, the News of his Approach rejoiced them. But when they came to see him, their Transports were beyond all Description, their Eyes overflowed with Tears of Joy and Affection, whilst the Sky rung with their Acclamations. How happy is such a King amidst such a People, and how formidable when he heads them against their Enemies!Zeokinizulstayed three Days atKofir, as a Testimony of his Regard for this cordial People, who also to shew their Sense of so much Condescension, and to celebrate his Return, invented Variety of polite Entertainments. The King and People seemed to strive who should be kindest, for he gave Orders, that all the Inhabitants without Exception, should have Admittance into his Presence, that they might feast themselves with the delightful Sight which they had so affectionately desired. It is affirmed, that the Idea of his late Danger, from which he was often told, that nothing less than a Miracle delivered him, being still strong upon his Mind, he had a real Tenderness for the Queen, whom he had restored to all her Rights. They were more than once surprized in such Attitudes as clearly shewed their Reconciliation.
But how frail are Vows drawn from us only by Danger, how soon effaced by Safety and Temptation! Scarce wasZeokinizulreturned to the Hurry, Brilliancy, and Diversionsof the Court, but those Impressions which it was hoped would be as lasting as they were salutary, were by Degrees soon dissipated. His Love forLenertoulaappear'd to have been like a sudden Fire, ready to burst out with greater Vehemence. At first he was sorry for his using her so abruptly; than he began to frown on the Advisers of her disgraceful Removal, and recall'dKelirieuand others who had sided with his injured Favorite.Kalontil, Governor to the Prince, the presumptive Heir of the Crown, was banished from Court, for Reasons which were never thought fit to be made publick. Some imputed it to his endangering his Pupil, by having brought him to his sick Father, without any such order, and without Attendance. Others charge him with a Project for aggrandizing himself upon the King's Death. But the most knowing conclude, that he must have spoken ill of the Favorite, in order to set the young Prince against her.Zeokinizulseemed afterwards mightily to affect Solitude, nor did even Hunting itself please him, unless when he went without Company; which gave Occasion to suspect, that there were some private Meetings carried on in order to a Reconciliation with the Favourite, and to whichKelirieuwas only privy. At last, weary of constraining his Temper, he complained openly of the Abuse put upon him at a Time when he was incapable of Reflection, and of the Indignity offered to his Honour,in urging him with terrible Threatnings to disgracefully remove, and expose to Contempt and Violences, a Person whose only Fault towards him was an Excess of Love. He restored her to her Rank, Titles, and Privileges; but openly declaring, that all this was only to prevent her former Commerce with him proving her utter Ruin; for that he was determined not to keep her any longer as a Mistress. Yet notwithstanding these Protestations, private Measures were forming in order to procure as fond a Reconciliation as ever. The Reality of these Assurances were soon illustrated, when he broke the solemn Promise he had made to theMollak, and recall'd his dearLenertoula. But this was too slender a Reparation for what she had suffered. She required ofZeokinizul, a more complete and signal Triumph. Immediately the pious, but over-zealousMollakwas dismissed the Court, and ordered to hisMosque. AVisieralso whom the Favourite particularly hated, having always opposed her Amour, was ordered personally to declare to her, thatZeokinizulagain acknowledged her Mistress of his Heart, and only waited her Orders, and a List of her Enemies, in order to revenge her to the utmost. TheVisierobeyed; but at the same Time he took secure Measures that he might not be upon the fatal List, and to prevent this imperious Woman from abusing the King's Weakness, an infallible Poison whichhe found Means to have given her, worked at the very Instant that he went to perform his Commission. As she was soon violently seiz'd with the Approaches of Death, it was believed by the Generality, who had no Notion of foul Play, thatLenertoulahad been overcome by an Excess of Joy, which is always more forcible than that of Grief, especially in Women. Upon this Notion, aKofiranWit made four Verses, which may be thus rendered inEnglish.
'Tis needless now my famous Blood to name,This Act alone will immortalize my Fame.My King, on gaining Life, return'd my Pow'r,For which I dy'd his Glory to restore.
'Tis needless now my famous Blood to name,This Act alone will immortalize my Fame.My King, on gaining Life, return'd my Pow'r,For which I dy'd his Glory to restore.
It was thought for a long Time, that this would prove an inconsolable Loss toZeokinizul. He seemed to have no Ease, no Satisfaction, but in heaping Gifts and Favours on allLenertoula's Relations, to manifest how dear she was to him. However, the Marriage of his only Son, to a Daughter of the King ofJerebi, his Relation, the Magnificence and Diversions at the Celebration of the Ceremony, and the Congratulations from all Parts, at last gave a chearful Turn to his Disposition; and he wisely began to think, that the Honours he conferr'd on the Sister of his dear Mistress, besides sixteenthousandTomanswhich he gave to her Husband; together with a tender Remembrance, which he vow'd always to retain for her Ashes, was amply fulfilling all that the most tender Passion could require. His Courtiers, who were surprised to see his Heart continue for a Time disengag'd and inaccessible to any new Passion, were in daily Expectation of seeing the Liberty which he had so happily recovered, offered up to some youthful Beauty. But the Court Ladies strove so eagerly for this Prize, that their over Forwardness made him averse to having an Intrigue with any. They were ignorant that Resistance inflames Desire, and he at that Time scorned Enjoyments too easily procured.Kelirieuin the mean Time grew uneasy at his Master's Indifference, as it deprived him of the most substantial Emoluments of his Post. He saw his Favours entirely depended on his being subservient to the King's Pleasures, so that he spared for nothing in order to restore that Employment which he had executed so much to his Master's Satisfaction, and his own Advantage. The Nuptials of the young Prince opened a Way to it. Nothing can equal the Joy, Magnificence, and Splendour, which appeared on that Occasion. The City ofKofirdistinguished itself above all others in the Kingdom; for as it has not its equal for Largeness and Riches, soit surpassed them all in the Eclat of its Zeal and Affection for the Royal Family. In twelve of the most remarkable Parts of the City, there were large and superb Saloons, where all without Distinction, were admitted to dance. There was a Profusion of Refreshments of all Kinds. The best Musicians had Orders to attend. The Sound of such an infinite Number of Instruments, accompanied with harmonious Voices, added to the Murmurs of the Fountains of Wine which were playing every where, inspired such a rapturous Gaiety to numberless Crouds of People, that no Stranger, however, acquainted with the Affairs of this Kingdom, could, at that Time of excessive Mirth, have imagined, that it had for many Years been involved in a bloody and expensive War.
This Season of universal Joy, Love chose to captivate againZeokinizul, after such an Interval of boasted Liberty. The chief Inhabitants ofKofir, who are a distinct Body from the Nobility, the Magistracy, and the Citizens, had decorated in the most superb Manner the Sessions House for a Ball, to which they invited the King and royal Pair. Every one was admitted in their Mask Habits, to give the Citizens an Opportunity of shewing their Wives the Magnificence, Gallantries, and Diversions of the Court, which at other Times is out of their Power. AccordinglyZeokinizul, attended by all his Courtiers, came to this Ball, in Habits as strange as they were elegant. The Sight of such a beautiful Assembly, struck him with a delightful Surprise. Here was no painted Allurements, no artificial Charms, such as he was daily conversant with in his Palace. All here was pure Nature, which seem'd to have chosen this Day to present him with a Sight of her most beautiful Productions. The Beauty, the Air, the Motion, and Youth of these lovely Objects was so enchanting, that they looked like the heavenlyHouris.Zeokinizulwas enchanted at the Sight of such a brilliant Assembly, his Eyes wandered from Beauty to Beauty, till they seemed at once to fix on a young Lady of a distinguished Appearance. She was in the Habit of anAmazon, with her Bow and Quiver hanging at her Shoulders. Her flaxen Hair, which shone with Diamonds, floated in Ringlets, and her charming Breast half naked, ravish'd the Sight. "Lovely Huntress," said the Monarch, "unhappy those whom your Arrows pierce, their Wounds are Mortal."—— This Speech gave the Charmer a fair Field for returning such an Answer as might inflameZeokinizul; but whether she did not dream of such a Conquest, or Presence of Mind failed her, she ran and hid herself among the Maskers. This Disappointment was in some Measure relieved by a Company oftwenty young Persons, who began a Dance, which was much in Vogue at that Time, but first invented in the King ofAlniob's Country. They perform'd it so gracefully, that he stood like a Man deprived of his Senses. The Charms of each of these beautiful Dancers, threw him into his first Hesitation, which would soon have been ended, had any one of them uncovered her Face. It is past all Doubt, that the Heart ofZeokinizul, which longed for an Object, would have received the Impression with Transport. He went to one of the Ends of the Saloon, where Women of an ordinary Rank were seated in a Kind of Amphitheatre. Their Dress was in nothing inferior to those of a higher Rank; and besides, they had those fresh healthful Countenances, which being the Result of Temperance, and a plain Way of living, was not to be found among the Quality.Zeokinizulstood viewing them, but his Hour was come. Love waited for him under a Mask, and she who wore it was now going to let this mischievous Deity fly intoZeokinizul's Heart. She was a young Woman, of a brown Complexion, lately married to a freedman, who having deserv'd his Master's Favour by nocturnal Services, had, together with his Liberty, obtained a Post among those who robb'd the Prince, and plunder'd the People. They are calledOmeriserufs, or Rogues of the second Class. She, whom Love had already appointed forFavourite, under Pretence of pulling something out of her Pocket, dropt her Handkerchief, and as it is said, purposely.Zeokinizulhastily took it up; and, as he could not reach her Seat, he toss'd it to her in the most polite Manner. A confused Murmur immediately spread thro' the Saloon, with these Words,The Handkerchief is thrown. The King was too much taken up with viewing the Person to whom he had been so complaisant, to take any Notice of such Whisperings. The Charms she display'd in taking off her Mask, and her genteel Manner of her thanking him for the Honour, fill'd him with such passionate Love, that he even there gave her some Intimations how much he was taken with her Beauty. After this Declaration, he soon left the Ball, for having received such a Wound, he wanted to be in private with his Confident, in order to consult about his new Love.Kelirieuhad already prevented his Master's Orders, for as he narrowly watched him, he perceived which of the Company had captivated him, and immediately informed himself of her Rank and Condition.
Zeokinizulwas transported with Joy atKelirieu's Report of his Enquiries. He made himself sure, that the Husband of this young Person, being one of those Set of Men, who Mind nothing but Riches, would not only resign his conjugal Rights, but would even be brought to sollicit hisSpouse to resign herself up to the King's Embraces, and herein he was not mistaken. But the Difficulty was to induce the Seller's Wife to be a Party in such a scandalous Contract; for tho' she was of low Extraction, she had an Elevation of Mind, a Purity of Virtue, which would have done Honour to the highest. She could not indeed help being inwardly pleased that she had tried her Charms with such Success upon her Sovereign, and the dazzling Idea of beholdingZeokinizullaying at her Feet, all his Greatness and Power, her Husband made aBassaof the second Rank, her Name exchanged for one of the most illustrious, were Circumstances which the natural Desires in Women of shining even in the smallest Matters, would not allow her to be insensible; yet this Sensibility did not greatly hasten the Lover's Happiness; for, as her Duty united her to a Husband, from whom her Inclinations alienated her, she was for distinguishing herself from all that had gone before her, and reducing the Monarch to go through the entire Play of Love. But such a formal Method was insupportable to him, for being used to conquer upon the very first Appearance of his Desire, his Heart was for some Time distracted with strong Conflicts between Love and Resentment, without a decisive Victory on either Side. Sometimes he looked upon the Resistance of his new Mistress, as an insolent Affront to Majesty; at otherTimes this same Resistance inflamed him the more, and he pleased himself with the Thoughts of subduing that obstinate Virtue which she affected. AllKelirieu's Artifices were at an End, and when he was passionately urg'd by the King, he was at a Loss for any farther Expedient. However, in such a critical Juncture, he determined to make one last Effort, in order to bring the beautifulVorompdapto his Lure, and if he fail'd, to engageZeokinizulto forget her in the Arms of another, who knew the true Value of a Monarch's Affections.
Being persuaded that every Woman who has once listened to a Lover, cannot bear the Thoughts of losing him, but makes Use of every Art in order to fix his Constancy, he waited upon her in Person, and said, with an Air of Concern, At last, charmingKismare, your Rigour has disgusted theSultan, so as to make him give over his Addresses. Weary of the Delays and Obstacles you was constantly raising against his Passion, he has offered it to another, notwithstanding all my Endeavours to secure him, by the highest Praises of your Charms, and making your very Resistance, a Motive for his farther Pursuits. A Person, not indeed of your perfect Beauty, but of a more indulgent Temper, captivates this Monarch, and I apprehend, that her obliging and artful Behaviour to her Lover, will for ever depriveyou of a Heart which you might have kept at your Devotion.Kelirieu, whilst he was speaking, did not fail to observe the youngVorompdap's Countenance, and had the Pleasure of discerning the Vexation which she strove in vain to conceal. She was some Time without returning an Answer, but after composing herself, and putting a good Air upon the Confusion which the Thoughts of a Rival had excited, I could never have imagined, said she, with an affected Indifference, which, however, could not deceive the artfulKelirieu, No, I never could have imagined, that after so many Marks and Protestations of a sincere Affection,Zeokinizul, could have deceived me in such a Manner. However, I am free from the Reproaches of a criminal Uneasiness to gratify his Desires. CharmingKismare, repliedKelirieu, had you shewed the Compliance which is due to a Monarch's Love, I presume to swear by his Head, that he would never have proved inconstant. But no Lover, and especially a King, will ever be satisfied with an ideal Love. Kindness cherishes the Flame, but Unkindness quenches it. But if you have still any Value forZeokinizul's Heart, you still may avert the Blow which seems to trouble you. I, replied she, smartly, I, troubled at the King's Alteration! very far from it. On the contrary, I bless interposing Heaven, that it happened before Gratitudehad prevail'd upon me to make him a Sacrifice of my Person, and, what is still dearer, my Virtue. Alas! added she, sheding some Tears, which flowed in Spite of her, that fatal Instant was drawing near. If it be so, repliedKelirieu, I pity you for having undesignedly lost an Enjoyment so necessary to your own Repose. For, added he, softly, I can discover through all your Affectations, that you really love the King. Your Heart is wounded, and only with-held by airy and unseasonable Scruples. Well, yes, answered she, I do love him. I do not endeavour to conceal it from you. Good God! what Woman in my Place could forbear. But, how can I commit such a publick Adultery. A publick Adultery, repliedKelirieu, with a seeming Amazement, what Blockhead has put such Fancies into your Head. But this Crime so justly condemned both by divine and human Laws, consists in the Injury done to a Man, whose Wife against his Will, or without his Knowledge, admits a Gallant to her Embraces? But, lovelyKismare, how different is your Case! Will not your Husband quit all Pretentions to your Person? Has he not releas'd you from the Vow of being only his? Since his Consent could unite you to him, shall his positive Order be of less Validity to separate you from him, and unite you to another; and that upon such an important Occasion, when Riches, Titles, andPower are to reward his Cession, and your Acquiescence? Believe me, charmingVorompdap, ourImanshave adapted our Religion to their own Views and Passions, without Regard to that genuine and perfect Model, the Will of God. The Vow of Celibacy, upon which they value themselves, as renouncing Marriage, would be an insupportable Yoke to them, it would be soon shaken of, were it not for their Hopes, which indeed are too often verified, of taking Advantage of the Misunderstandings betwixt the Husband and Wife, whose Bands they are taught to believe indissoluble. It is on this Account, that they are constantly magnifying Conjugal Duties, and lay so much Stress on their punctual Observation. Consider only what is done in other Nations, no less wise and religious than ourselves. Divorces among them are permitted, as frequently essential to the well being of Society. That sacred Book theLiegnelau, cannot be supposed to contradict and overthrow theBileb, of which it is in a great Measure the Accomplishment, andSuesiwhom you worship, being the Messenger of the great God, would not offer to abrogate his Institutions. Thus the Point is clear, and now look upon yourself as a Woman who is about forming a second Contract, being legally, religiously, and honourably discharged from the former.Zeokinizulis equally at Liberty, for the State andTemper of the Queen invalidate their Marriage. So, that only a few Formalities are wanting for your Union with the King, and you know, Formalities among the more understanding Part of the World, are often dispensed with, as tiresome rather than necessary. The Consent of both Parties has always been the only Point insisted on as essential.
These Proofs, which in the Mouth of aMollak, would have been laugh'd at, produced the designed Effect fromKelirieu. The youngKismarewas shaken, but not overthrown by them; she still insisted against plunging herself into such shocking Scandal. This seemed a very slender Objection toKelirieu, who immediately replyed to it. Consider, says he, theKamsofMeaniandTesoulou, do they bear any Marks of their Mother's Scandal? Was a great Monarch's Love accounted a Disgrace to a beautiful Lady? If you was acquainted with the first Ages of our Monarchy, you would be satisfied, that they never made any Difference between the Children of Love, and those born in lawful Marriage, as theImansare pleased to call it. A King at your Feet, Courtiers waiting respectfully on your Orders, a Nation's Treasure at your Disposal, can there be Contempt and Scandal amid such Advantages? Do not alarm your Mind with Monsters of your own forming, only for the Sake of opposingthem. Consent to makeZeokinizulhappy, and I will lay him at your Feet, more deeply in Love than ever. These Representations made a strong Impression upon the young Favourite, whom the Eloquence of her own Heart had already half convinced. She still stood upon some Punctilio's; but whenKelirieu, which was his last Resource, intimated to her the Danger which might accrue to her Husband from her Obstinacy, this drew from her an absolute Consent. This last Circumstance was certainly the best adapted to fix her; for the newKismare, like all the rest of his Fraternity, was making the most of his Time in the Management of the Finances, and relying on his Spouse's Favour, he was above taking proper Precautions to conceal or palliate his Imbezzlements.Kelirieutook Care to fillVorompdapwith Apprehensions, thatZeokinizulwould infallibly call him to an Account, the most favourable Consequence whereof, would be a Confiscation of all his Substance. It was then high Time to come to a Resolution. ThusKelirieuhappily completed his Negotiation. And having appointed the Time and Place for the first Interview, he hastened, flushed with Joy, to congratulate his Master on this Victory, which was the more delightful, as it had been attended with such a Train of Difficulties.
In the mean Time this new Intrigue, no more than the former, could not diminishZeokinizul's strict Attention to the several Exigencies of the State. His wise Orders had been so exactly executed throughout his Empire, that his Armies were fit for Action even before the Spring. He headed in Person the most considerable, which was destined for the Conquest of theBapasis, being still commanded by the braveVameric, whose prudent Conduct towards the End of the last Campaign had been admired by his very Enemies. The Favourite followed the King asLenertoulahad done, whom she certainly equalled both in Love and Honour. The Campaign was opened with the Siege of a Town which the greatZeokitarezulhad fortified at a prodigious Expence, which, besides a strong regular Wall and Outworks, had a Citadel which was accounted by the Connoisseurs, a Master-piece of Fortification. It must have been even an unsurmountable Barrier to theKofirans, in case they reduced the City. With this View their Attacks were carried on with all imaginary Vigour. On the other Hand, this Place being as it were the Key of the Country, the Keeping of it was of such Importance to the Enemies ofZeokinizul, that they resolv'd to hazard every Thing in order to its Relief. The King ofAlniob, the ProvincesJunet, and the Queen ofGhinoer, Sovereign of theBapasis, joined all their Forces, of which thechief Command was conferr'd on theKamofLundamberk, youngest Son to the King ofAlniob, a Prince of a martial Disposition, and of the greatest Bravery. His Ardour for Glory made him long to encounter the King of theKofirans, and his only Son, a young Prince of the greatest Expectations, who could forsake the Embraces of a youthful Bride, to attend his Father, and learn the Art of War underVameric, in the midst of Fatigues and Dangers. The Impetuosity of theKamofLundamberk, would not allow him to conform to the wise Counsels of the experienced Generals of his Army, who were for delaying the Battle 'till he had got the Advantage of the Ground, as he was inferiour to them in Numbers. He would not be ruled by their Representations, but, led on by his evil Genius, he came and offered Battle toZeokinizul, whose Forces were already come out of their Lines, and drawn up in order to receive him.
As these Sheets bear the Title of the Amours ofZeokinizul, I may perhaps be censured for giving a Detail of a Battle which seems quite foreign to this Work; but as it occasioned several Vexations to the Favourite, and having been omitted by every other Writer, I believe the Reader will not be displeased at my relating such Particulars as have come to my Knowledge.
There was great Fault found withVameric's Dispositions. It was reported, thathe was so full of the Victory, that he took not the least Care to secure a Retreat. Behind his Lines was a large River call'd theTueska, over which he had laid but one Bridge, which, in Case of a Defeat, must infallibly have broken down with the Weight of the flying Troops; the Consequence of which must have been their total Destruction. All this is a known and undeniable Truth. ButVamericwas acquainted with the Spirit of the Nation which he commanded. He knew that they would not fly before all the Forces in the World, when they were fighting in their King's Presence. Then, what Occasion was there for Bridges to favour a Retreat, when every single Man was resolv'd to die, or conquer? Besides in one Night's Time he had cast up three Trenches, of which the two first were sufficient to defend them against the first Attack of the Enemy, which is always the most violent. The third would be an impenetrable Defence against their weak and broken Forces. Another considerable Advantage was, the dividing the Army into small Bodies, which must extremely harass the Enemy, as they must be under a Necessity of attacking but one at a Time. Whatever ConfidenceZeokinizulreposed inVameric, he would share both in the Command and Danger. This hazardous Circumstance threw the Favourite into inexpressible Agonies. But neither her Tears nor her Intreaties,so prevalent at all other Times, were unable to restrain the resolute Monarch. He and his Son were present during the whole Action, and in so much Danger, that several were killed near them. At last, Victory declared itself in his Favour, and the young Prince ofAlniob, tho' he exerted the utmost Courage and was seconded with an intrepid Valour, by his Soldiers, who loved him entirely, was obliged to retreat. But tho' this young Lion was defeated, he still struck his Enemies with Terror, for after such an Experience of his Valour, they apprehended that he would next Day renew the Action, which he certainly would have done, had it not been for the Opposition of his Generals.
Zeokinizul, after the Victory, applied himself to shew the Conquered how highly he esteemed their Courage. It was ordered, that the same Care should be taken of their wounded, as of his own Soldiers. The imprudent and scandalous Report of some barbarous Orders issued by the Prince ofAlniob, in Case of his Success, made not the least Impression on this magnanimous King, and allAfricajoined in owning that theKamofLundamberkand his Allies, could not have a more worthy Conqueror thanZeokinizul. The Congratulations of his dearKismarewere still wanting, to complete the Joy and Honours of this Victory. He hastened, transportedwith Love, to lay his Laurels at her Feet, and tell her that he was animated by her charming Idea, in the midst of all the Horrors of the Battle. Here was a fresh and very worthy Motive to increase her Tenderness towards him. But, who can know a Woman? This Instant was to be the Period of it, or at least to put it to a severe Trial.
A young Prisoner, one of the most illustrious of the Nobility ofAlniob, having desired Admittance toZeokinizul, was introduced to him in his Tent, where he was sitting with the Favourite. She was struck at the Sight of him, as indeed there never was any Man fitter to make a Woman unfaithful, and justify her Infidelity. His Mein and Air spoke the Hero, and his Address to the Monarch declared, that his Sentiments were answerable. "Sire, said he, all our Efforts have not hindered Victory from declaring itself for you. Tho' I can no longer continue fighting with my brave Fellow-Soldiers, I could wish not to remain among mine Enemies. Your Highness is no Stranger to Love, and it is that which calls me back to my own Country. Be pleased therefore, to grant me Permission to return, which will not a little augment your Glory, that I shall there appear in Chains instead of those Trophies which I hop'd to have adorn'd my Return." The majestic Air with which this youngWarriour delivered himself, movedZeokinizul, who immediately answered, "You are at full Liberty to depart, and may Love do you more Justice than Fortune." This Generosity ofZeokinizul, was planting a Dagger in the Favourite's Heart, who had already conceived too great a Passion for the Prisoner, to consent so readily to his Departure. Her Passion hindered her from reflecting on the Consequences which might flow from it, and turning towards the Monarch, she said, "Sire, let not your extreme Generosity betray your Interest. When this young Warriour is again among his Countrymen, he may engage them to come and attack you a second Time. He has seen"——"Be it so, Madam," interruptedZeokinizul, "I can never have too many Opportunities of making Heroes." She blush'd at this Answer, andKelirieu, who perceived it, readily guessing that the Departure of this young Prisoner was not agreeable to her Inclinations, laid hold of the Opportunity ofZeokinizul's going out to give some Orders, of offering her his Service. "Madam, said he, if I am not mistaken, I apprehend this young Prisoner has renewed in your Mind some painful Idea; be pleased to disclose the Secret to me, you shall find I will prove a faithful Servant, devoted to all your Views and Inclinations. Is it your Pleasure that this Prisoner should go or Stay?"I will find a Method of making him consent to either, as you shall direct." "Ah, let him go replied she, my dearKelirieu, let him go, his Presence is so dangerous, that any longer Stay would, I fear, make me become ungrateful and faithless to my generous Prince. How charming he is! did you ever before see so graceful a Person? How serene and noble is his Deportment, in the midst of Misfortunes! However, possibly as a Prisoner, he may stand in need of Money, go and offer him these two hundred Pieces of Gold, that he may return to his Country in a Manner suitable to his Rank and Merit, and bring me back an Account in what Manner he received them."
Kelirieuwas of such a restless Vivacity, that he could not be contented without Intrigues, which made him eagerly apply himself to forming another. Having found out the fortunate Prisoner, he put the Purse into his Hands with these Words. "Virtue, my Lord, is equally cherished by both Sexes among us, and as a Proof of it, here are two hundred Pieces of Gold, which you are desired to accept of from a very beautiful Lady." "I should be unworthy the least of her Thoughts, replied the Prisoner, were I to refuse her Favour, which this Juncture has render'd necessary. If her Name be not a Secret, I would beg the Favour of you,"my Lord, to introduce me, that I might pay my Acknowledgements to this generous Lady." "She would, perhaps ask you for something more, repliedKelirieu." "Ah, returned the Stranger, that is not in my Power to grant. As I have not seen her, I can, without the least Affront to her Beauty, preserve my Heart for the present dear Possessour of it. Be pleased then, my Lord, to tell her, that I depart full of the warmest Gratitude; and, since I am so fortunate as to have the illustriousKamofKelirieuin my Interest, I beg him to be assured, that upon my Return into my Country, as it is my highest Duty, so it shall be my first Care, to make suitable Returns for his Generosity to a Stranger, whom his polite Behaviour entirely frees from the Meanness of receiving a Favour, which he would have refused from any other Hand."Kelirieu, perceiving he entirely mistook his Intentions, did not think proper to explain himself, and after taking his Leave, he returned to make a Report to the Favourite of his unlucky Commission. She was piqued at his Refusal, but making a Virtue of Necessity, she endeavoured to efface the sudden Impression which he had made upon her Heart. Fruitless Endeavours, his Idea was always present to her Imagination. Neither Gratitude to the King, Diversions, nor Resentment, could remove it, 'till by a mostfortunate Accident, this haughty Rebel became her Admirer, which soon terminated in the Gratification of her Desires. But as the History of this Amour has no necessary Connection with that which I am writing, I shall leave the several Incidents with which it was attended, to be taken Notice of by some other Writer, only observing, that this youngAlniobianreturning some Years after, into the Country of theKofirans, it was his Fortune to be united for ever to his generous Benefactress, whom the Death of her Husband, andZeokinizul's Indifference, left at her own Disposal. This Prince perceived some Alterations in the Favourite, which were at first excused, under Pretence of some feign'd Indispositions, and the Monarch was so easy as to take her Word without any farther Examination into the Truth of her Excuses.
At the End of the Campaign,Zeokinizulreturn'd to his Palace, to exchange the Fatigues of War, for the Embraces of Love, and make Preparations for new Conquests, if his Enemies should reject the Peace which he had offered them, on such equitable Conditions as contained nothing of the Haughtiness of a Conqueror. The King's Presence brought back to the Court all the Pleasures and Diversions, of which there had been no Appearance during his Expedition. There was nothing but Balls, Feasts, and magnificent Parties of Pleasure.His Fondness would not allow him at any Time to be long absent from his Favourite. He endeavoured by every Token of Affection to convince her that she had found the Means to fix his Heart unalterably, and this might have been really the Case, had he been taken up continually with Affairs of the War, so as to have had but a small Portion of Time for his Pleasures. But this not being the Season for Military Operations allowed him too much Time for Indulgence, and the Monarch's Heart was not to be fixed by any single Passion. The beautifulVorompdapexerted herself to the utmost, in order to prolong the Continuance of her Reign; but this was the very Occasion of her Overthrow.
The Daughter of one of the first Noblemen of the Kingdom appear'd at Court. This angelic Creature had spent the first Years of her Youth in aMosqueof holy Women, who, to make themselves amends for the Vow they have taken to renounce the World, employ themselves in breeding up young Ladies according to its current Maxims, and most fashionable Practices. There was no beholding her youthful Charms, tho' not yet arrived at their full Perfection, without Admiration. ABassaof the first Rank, thought her entirely deserving of his Homage. Accordingly he paid his Addresses to her, and in a short Time was so happy as to gain her Consent. Some weighty Motives however, oblig'dthem to keep their Intimacy private; but Love cannot be conceal'd, Discretion and Tenderness being seldom found together.Zeokinizulperceiv'd that the youngBassa, who till then had talked loudly against Love, was become more pensive than usual. He himself had too much Experience not to guess the Source of this Alteration. He mildly banter'd him upon it, and diverted himself with raillying him for a Sensibility, which he often had boasted he would ever resist. There was no Way for the youngBassato make the King give over these stinging Ironies, but by discovering his Passion. The Excess of his Love made him unhappily Eloquent in the Description of its charming Object.Zeokinizul, was inflamed by such a beautiful Description; and, having designedly provoked him, by saying, that as the Picture was drawn by the Pencil of a Lover, he suspected the Likeness; the imprudentBassaforgot to whom he was speaking, and how reserv'd he ought to have been with a Prince of such amorous Disposition, he offered to justify all he had said of his Mistress. This was the very ThingZeokinizulwanted. The Offer was agreed to, and this enchanting Object brought into his Presence. The King no sooner saw her, but he loved her. The Idea of a Rival so dearly loved, did not occasion any Despair in the King of being happy; and, as a King makes Love in a different Manner from a Subject, insteadof making his Mistress forget the youngBassaby Presents, and other Endearments, he made Use of his Prerogative, by sending him away on an honourable Pretence. He also took sure Measures to deprive him of the melancholy Comfort of taking his Leave of her, and to prevent those two Lovers from maintaining their mutual Affections by a Correspondence of Letters, which would confirmNasica(for so was this adorable Lady called) in rejecting his Passion. At hearing of theBassa's Departure, her Heart immediately became a Prey to Grief, Jealousy and Resentment; and imputing his Conduct to his Indifference, she resolv'd to banish him from her Remembrance, or if this was impossible, yet, at least, she would appear to have done so.Zeokinizul, was soon informed of the disorder'd State of her Mind. Few Confidents are to be found, who can withstand the Solicitations of a King. She whomNasicahad chosen, was one of the weakest. She discover'd to the King, the Rise, Increase, and several other Circumstances of her Mistress's Love for the youngBassa, and gave him a full Account of the Grief and Resentment she had shewn at his unexpected Departure.
In order to give these Emotions Time to arrive at such a Height, as to subdue Love,Zeokinizulvery carefully avoided speaking one Word toNasicaof his Passion for her. However, as often as hehappen'd to see her, he never fail'd passing a Compliment upon her Beauty, but it was always with such Calmness and Moderation, as was so far from being thought to proceed from Love, that it was only accounted a proper Complaisance in the Prince, who was willing to do Justice to such a celebrated Beauty. The youngBassa, being ignorant that his Letters were intercepted, had wrote several in so soft and persuasive a Style, as to alarmZeokinizul, and make him redouble his Precautions to prevent any of them from falling into the Hands of those to whom they were directed. But the Confidence he had of his Mistress's Affection, not allowing him to suspect thatNasicacould prove faithless, began to think that some third Person interposed in their Correspondence. After having long consider'd who could be this jealous Rival who thus deprived him of his only remaining Comfort, his Suspicions fell upon his Master. When he called to Mind the Suddenness of his being sent away in an Affair which required no such Haste, it was but too evident, and his Doubts increased to a Certainty. His whole Dangers and Misfortunes immediately presented themselves to his View. He was not ignorant that it was an unpardonable Crime to be a Rival to his Monarch, had his Love been unsuccessful; what then could be expected, when his Happiness was the soleObstacle to his Sovereign's Love? However, not valuing his Disgrace, provided his Mistress continued faithful, he wrote her a Letter in the most moving Terms, representing to her, that a Crown ought to come in no Competition with Love; that it was the Heart only which ought to engage a Lady, who has a true Sense of that delicate Passion; that upon this Principle he yielded the Preference toZeokinizul, if his Love was more pure, more respectful, or more perfect than his own. This Letter was committed to an old Servant, in whom he placed the greatest Confidence; but the Misfortune was, that this Slave's good Qualities were mixed with several Vices, and particularly Drunkenness. Being come to a Place where he was to change his Horse, he resolved to rest himself a while, and empty some Bottles. This was the very Place where the Spies of his Master's Rival used to intercept his Letters. They knew by his Habit, that he belonged to the youngBassa, which was enough to make them mistrust him. They went up to him, and after some Excuses for their Freedom, invited him to drink of their Liquor. One of them offer'd to bear him Company as far asKofir, as he was going to that City. The Slave overjoy'd at meeting with a Fellow Traveller, and relying on the Swiftness of his Horse, staid here longer than he ought. The Wine overpower'd him, and his artfulCompanion plying him with Bumpers, soon disabled him from going any farther. The Sot fell asleep, his Pockets were searched, and the Letter was known by the Direction to be one of those which they were order'd to intercept. One of them immediately set out to carry it to him who had appointed the Ambuscade, and he flew to deliver it toZeokinizul. As the youngBassaappeared to know who was his Rival, suitable Measures were to be taken, and such an Answer sent to him as might throw him into Despair, and make him abandon a Passion which was now become dangerous. That it might have the better Effect,Nasica's Hand was exactly imitated, and every discouraging Argument forcibly urged. This counterfeited Letter gave him to understand, in the Name of his Mistress, that a crowned Lover being more acceptable to her than a private Subject, she strictly commanded him never to write, or speak one Word more of his presumptuous Passion.
This little Artifice proved of very happy Consequence toZeokinizul. The youngBassa, who had a most respectful Regard for him, thought it became him to return Contempt for Contempt. His Answer was carefully deliver'd to the King, who could not but be highly pleased that the Credulity of his Rival should promote his Love. To complete his Satisfaction, he ordered a Letter to be writ toNasica, inwhich her Lover freely exhorts her to take him for a Patern, and make another Choice. All these Batteries being so well disposed,Zeokinizulbegan to think of disclosing himself. He gave a Ball to his whole Court, in order to favour his Design, at which all the Ladies having an Opportunity of entertaining themselves with their favourite Diversions were highly delighted, and full of Gaiety.Nasicaalone, seem'd insensible in the midst of all these Entertainments. She retired at a Distance to avoid the Conversation of the gallant Nobility. The soft Languor of her Eyes sufficiently declar'd the Sorrow of her Heart, and that the proper Person was wanting to dissipate it.Zeokinizul, chose this Time to begin his Addresses. CharmingNasica, says he, his Eyes sparkling with Love, what Disquietudes are those to which you seem to abandon yourself. Is there any Mortal so happy as to cause them? I do not think, Sire, return'd she, that what your Highness calls Disquietudes in me, can Interest you so far as to ask me the Occasion of them.—— Ah, Gods! not be interested, replied the transported Monarch, can you doubt of it, have not my Countenance, my Eyes, even my very Silence, which I have respectfully observ'd till now, have not all these informed you, that my Happiness entirely depends on your Repose and Contentment. Let not the charmingNasicabe angry, continued he, perceiving,that she heard him with Resentment, I love you indeed, but my Passion is so pure, so submissive, that it can give no just Offence to your severe Vertue. I little imagined, interrupted she, that all these splendid Entertainments of the Court concealed any Design of throwing me into such alarming Apprehensions. Alarming Apprehensions! replied the King, is it then Matter of Grief to the loveliest Person now present, that her Charms have captivated her Sovereign? Yes, Sire, repliedNasica, resolutely, your Highness can only offer me a guilty Passion, and I would incur your utmost Displeasure, I would die, rather than condescend to it. Judge yourself, Sire, whether I have not Cause to be alarmed. But no, my Fears are too hasty. The greatZeokinizulis too just and generous to harbour a Thought of disgracing a Family which has always served him with Zeal and Honour, and it was merely to try his Subject, that he has demean'd himself to offer such Discourse to her. Immediately making a respectful Courtesy, she returned to the Circle of the Ladies.
Zeokinizul, was not a little piqued at the Manner in whichNasicahad received the Declaration of his Love. He expected that Modesty and Reservedness would have been her only Defence, and that, at least, she would have spared reproaching him with such disagreeable Truths. After having for a long Time watched all Opportunitiesof seeing and speaking to her, finding himself disappointed and rejected, he lost all Patience, so as not to care whether his Addresses to her were heard by the whole Court, or not. One Day, as she was talking with the Ladies of Honour in the Queen's Anti-Chamber, he came to her. A proper Respect made them all withdraw, and the Monarch laid hold of this Occasion to renew his Protestations. But all his ardent Entreaties had no more Success than his first Declaration.Nasica's Modesty disengaged her with Honour from so delicate a Situation.Zeokinizuladmired her Constancy, and tho' he despair'd of ever gaining her, yet he could not prevail upon himself to give over seeing her.
In the mean Time, the youngBassa's Resentment began to subside, and he became sensible, that what he had mistaken for Indifference, was only Love disguised and agitated with the most cruel Disquietude for the Fate of his dearNasica. This State of Anxiety grew insupportable, he would be informed of the Truth at any Rate, and being at a Loss whom to trust, since the most faithful of his Slaves had fail'd of reachingNasica's House, he resolv'd to go thither in Person. All the Dangers which he ran in disobeying his Sovereign's Orders, were too weak a Check for his Passion, and he set out with a Willingness to perish, provided he could oncemore throw himself at the Feet of the Object of his Love. After many Hazards of being known and stopp'd, tho' under a Disguise, he happily arrived atKofir. But after a few Days employ'd in contriving Means for an Interview with his Mistress, whom he had informed of his Arrival, by a Letter convey'd to her by an old Governess, which contain'd a Vindication of himself as well as his Surprise at her Behaviour, he was known, and immediately surrounded by the Spies, placed by the King to watch him, and whose Diligence was to be highly rewarded. He stood upon his Defence, but being over-power'd, he was carried to one of the Court Prisons.Zeokinizul, whose Passion had stifled his natural Sentiments of Humanity, was pleased to hear that his Rival lay in Chains. His Disobedience to the Royal Orders afforded a specious Pretence for putting him to Death, and the King's Heart was immediately inclined to such a cruel Expedient; but how was he struck, whenNasica, being inform'd of the dreadful Condition of her Lover, threw herself at his Feet all in Tears, conjuring him that the same Stroke might put an End to both their unfortunate Lives. Let him live, Sire, cried she, mournfully, or order that Death may unite us both in the Grave. If your Highness be offended at the Refusal of my Heart, it was no longer mine, Love having disposed of it in Favour of the unhappyBassa, who is now to fall your Victim. But his Views were honourable, nor weremine less innocent. Let your Highness pronounce the Decree of his Destiny, mine is inseperably annexed to it whatever it be.
Zeokinizulwas moved with such exalted Virtue, and being naturally tender and compassionate, he was grieved at seeing the Afflictions of two Lovers whom he himself had render'd unhappy. A Ray of Wisdom opened his Eyes, and restored him to himself. He raised upNasica, and gave Orders himself for the Preparations of her Marriage with the youngBassa, who afterwards became one of his chief Favourites.
So difficult an Act of Justice against himself, is one of the most glorious Periods of this Monarch's Reign. His Love forNasicasettled in a tender Friendship for this virtuous Lady, and soon after taking a Disgust at the Commerce of Women, he fixed a Resolution to abandon it entirely. His People became his whole Care. They adored him for the Wisdom and Goodness of his Administration during the Remainder of his Reign, which was much shorter than they desired. He endeavoured by his Instructions and Examples, to leave in his Son a worthy Successor, whose Virtues might keep up a lasting Idea of him. Such noble Cares were not disappointed, for the Name of the greatZeokinizul, and the illustrious Heir of his Crown, will be held in immortal Remembrance among the gratefulKofirans.