The Amours of Zeokinizul, King of the Kofirans Part 2

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! _Zeokinizul_ stayed three Days at _Kofir_, 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 Att.i.tudes as clearly shewed their Reconciliation.

But how frail are Vows drawn from us only by Danger, how soon effaced by Safety and Temptation! Scarce was _Zeokinizul_ returned to the Hurry, Brilliancy, and Diversions of the Court, but those Impressions which it was hoped would be as lasting as they were salutary, were by Degrees soon dissipated. His Love for _Lenertoula_ appear'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'd _Kelirieu_ and 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. _Zeokinizul_ seemed 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 which _Kelirieu_ was 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, t.i.tles, 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 a.s.surances were soon ill.u.s.trated, when he broke the solemn Promise he had made to the _Mollak_, and recall'd his dear _Lenertoula_. But this was too slender a Reparation for what she had suffered. She required of _Zeokinizul_, a more complete and signal Triumph. Immediately the pious, but over-zealous _Mollak_ was dismissed the Court, and ordered to his _Mosque_. A _Visier_ also whom the Favourite particularly hated, having always opposed her Amour, was ordered personally to declare to her, that _Zeokinizul_ again 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. The _Visier_ obeyed; 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 which he 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, that _Lenertoula_ had been overcome by an Excess of Joy, which is always more forcible than that of Grief, especially in Women. Upon this Notion, a _Kofiran_ Wit made four Verses, which may be thus rendered in _English_.

_'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 to _Zeokinizul_. He seemed to have no Ease, no Satisfaction, but in heaping Gifts and Favours on all _Lenertoula_'s Relations, to manifest how dear she was to him. However, the Marriage of his only Son, to a Daughter of the King of _Jerebi_, 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 sixteen thousand _Tomans_ which 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 Pa.s.sion could require. His Courtiers, who were surprised to see his Heart continue for a Time disengag'd and inaccessible to any new Pa.s.sion, 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. _Kelirieu_ in 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 of _Kofir_ distinguished itself above all others in the Kingdom; for as it has not its equal for Largeness and Riches, so it surpa.s.sed 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 b.l.o.o.d.y and expensive War.

This Season of universal Joy, Love chose to captivate again _Zeokinizul_, after such an Interval of boasted Liberty. The chief Inhabitants of _Kofir_, who are a distinct Body from the n.o.bility, 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.

Accordingly _Zeokinizul_, attended by all his Courtiers, came to this Ball, in Habits as strange as they were elegant. The Sight of such a beautiful a.s.sembly, 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 heavenly _Houris_.

_Zeokinizul_ was enchanted at the Sight of such a brilliant a.s.sembly, 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 an _Amazon_, 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 inflame _Zeokinizul_; 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 of twenty young Persons, who began a Dance, which was much in Vogue at that Time, but first invented in the King of _Alniob_'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 of _Zeokinizul_, 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. _Zeokinizul_ stood 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 into _Zeokinizul_'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 called _Omeriserufs_, or Rogues of the second Cla.s.s. She, whom Love had already appointed for Favourite, under Pretence of pulling something out of her Pocket, dropt her Handkerchief, and as it is said, purposely. _Zeokinizul_ hastily 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 pa.s.sionate 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. _Kelirieu_ had 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.

_Zeokinizul_ was transported with Joy at _Kelirieu_'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 his Spouse 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 beholding _Zeokinizul_ laying at her Feet, all his Greatness and Power, her Husband made a _Ba.s.sa_ of the second Rank, her Name exchanged for one of the most ill.u.s.trious, were Circ.u.mstances 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 other Times this same Resistance inflamed him the more, and he pleased himself with the Thoughts of subduing that obstinate Virtue which she affected. All _Kelirieu_'s Artifices were at an End, and when he was pa.s.sionately 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 beautiful _Vorompdap_ to his Lure, and if he fail'd, to engage _Zeokinizul_ to 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, charming _Kismare_, your Rigour has disgusted the _Sultan_, so as to make him give over his Addresses. Weary of the Delays and Obstacles you was constantly raising against his Pa.s.sion, 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 deprive you of a Heart which you might have kept at your Devotion. _Kelirieu_, whilst he was speaking, did not fail to observe the young _Vorompdap_'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 artful _Kelirieu_, 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. Charming _Kismare_, replied _Kelirieu_, 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 for _Zeokinizul_'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 Grat.i.tude had 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, replied _Kelirieu_, 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 G.o.d! what Woman in my Place could forbear.

But, how can I commit such a publick Adultery. A publick Adultery, replied _Kelirieu_, 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, lovely _Kismare_, 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, t.i.tles, and Power are to reward his Cession, and your Acquiescence? Believe me, charming _Vorompdap_, our _Imans_ have adapted our Religion to their own Views and Pa.s.sions, without Regard to that genuine and perfect Model, the Will of G.o.d. 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 the _Liegnelau_, cannot be supposed to contradict and overthrow the _Bileb_, of which it is in a great Measure the Accomplishment, and _Suesi_ whom you worship, being the Messenger of the great G.o.d, would not offer to abrogate his Inst.i.tutions. 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. _Zeokinizul_ is equally at Liberty, for the State and Temper 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 a _Mollak_, would have been laugh'd at, produced the designed Effect from _Kelirieu_. The young _Kismare_ was shaken, but not overthrown by them; she still insisted against plunging herself into such shocking Scandal. This seemed a very slender Objection to _Kelirieu_, who immediately replyed to it. Consider, says he, the _Kams_ of _Meani_ and _Tesoulou_, 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 the _Imans_ are 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 opposing them. Consent to make _Zeokinizul_ happy, 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 when _Kelirieu_, 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 Circ.u.mstance was certainly the best adapted to fix her; for the new _Kismare_, 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. _Kelirieu_ took Care to fill _Vorompdap_ with Apprehensions, that _Zeokinizul_ would 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. Thus _Kelirieu_ happily 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 diminish _Zeokinizul_'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 the _Bapasis_, being still commanded by the brave _Vameric_, whose prudent Conduct towards the End of the last Campaign had been admired by his very Enemies. The Favourite followed the King as _Lenertoula_ had done, whom she certainly equalled both in Love and Honour. The Campaign was opened with the Siege of a Town which the great _Zeokitarezul_ had 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 the _Kofirans_, 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 of _Zeokinizul_, that they resolv'd to hazard every Thing in order to its Relief. The King of _Alniob_, the Provinces _Junet_, and the Queen of _Ghinoer_, Sovereign of the _Bapasis_, joined all their Forces, of which the chief Command was conferr'd on the _Kam_ of _Lundamberk_, youngest Son to the King of _Alniob_, a Prince of a martial Disposition, and of the greatest Bravery. His Ardour for Glory made him long to encounter the King of the _Kofirans_, 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 under _Vameric_, in the midst of Fatigues and Dangers. The Impetuosity of the _Kam_ of _Lundamberk_, 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 to _Zeokinizul_, whose Forces were already come out of their Lines, and drawn up in order to receive him.

As these Sheets bear the t.i.tle of the Amours of _Zeokinizul_, 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 with _Vameric_'s Dispositions. It was reported, that he 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 the _Tueska_, 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. But _Vameric_ was 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 hara.s.s the Enemy, as they must be under a Necessity of attacking but one at a Time. Whatever Confidence _Zeokinizul_ reposed in _Vameric_, he would share both in the Command and Danger. This hazardous Circ.u.mstance 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 of _Alniob_, 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 of _Alniob_, in Case of his Success, made not the least Impression on this magnanimous King, and all _Africa_ joined in owning that the _Kam_ of _Lundamberk_ and his Allies, could not have a more worthy Conqueror than _Zeokinizul_. The Congratulations of his dear _Kismare_ were still wanting, to complete the Joy and Honours of this Victory. He hastened, transported with 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 ill.u.s.trious of the n.o.bility of _Alniob_, having desired Admittance to _Zeokinizul_, 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 young Warriour delivered himself, moved _Zeokinizul_, who immediately answered, "You are at full Liberty to depart, and may Love do you more Justice than Fortune." This Generosity of _Zeokinizul_, was planting a Dagger in the Favourite's Heart, who had already conceived too great a Pa.s.sion for the Prisoner, to consent so readily to his Departure. Her Pa.s.sion 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," interrupted _Zeokinizul_, "I can never have too many Opportunities of making Heroes." She blush'd at this Answer, and _Kelirieu_, who perceived it, readily guessing that the Departure of this young Prisoner was not agreeable to her Inclinations, laid hold of the Opportunity of _Zeokinizul_'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 dear _Kelirieu_, 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 n.o.ble 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."

_Kelirieu_ was 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 s.e.xes 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, replied _Kelirieu_." "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 Grat.i.tude; and, since I am so fortunate as to have the ill.u.s.trious _Kam_ of _Kelirieu_ in my Interest, I beg him to be a.s.sured, 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 Grat.i.tude to the King, Diversions, nor Resentment, could remove it, 'till by a most fortunate 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 young _Alniobian_ returning some Years after, into the Country of the _Kofirans_, it was his Fortune to be united for ever to his generous Benefactress, whom the Death of her Husband, and _Zeokinizul_'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, _Zeokinizul_ return'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 b.a.l.l.s, 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 Pa.s.sion. The beautiful _Vorompdap_ exerted 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 n.o.blemen of the Kingdom appear'd at Court. This angelic Creature had spent the first Years of her Youth in a _Mosque_ of 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. A _Ba.s.sa_ of 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'd them to keep their Intimacy private; but Love cannot be conceal'd, Discretion and Tenderness being seldom found together. _Zeokinizul_ perceiv'd that the young _Ba.s.sa_, 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 young _Ba.s.sa_ to make the King give over these stinging Ironies, but by discovering his Pa.s.sion. 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 imprudent _Ba.s.sa_ forgot 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 Thing _Zeokinizul_ wanted. 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, instead of making his Mistress forget the young _Ba.s.sa_ by 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 confirm _Nasica_ (for so was this adorable Lady called) in rejecting his Pa.s.sion. At hearing of the _Ba.s.sa_'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 whom _Nasica_ had chosen, was one of the weakest. She discover'd to the King, the Rise, Increase, and several other Circ.u.mstances of her Mistress's Love for the young _Ba.s.sa_, 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, _Zeokinizul_ very carefully avoided speaking one Word to _Nasica_ of his Pa.s.sion for her. However, as often as he happen'd to see her, he never fail'd pa.s.sing 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 young _Ba.s.sa_, being ignorant that his Letters were intercepted, had wrote several in so soft and persuasive a Style, as to alarm _Zeokinizul_, 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 that _Nasica_ could 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 sole Obstacle 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 Compet.i.tion with Love; that it was the Heart only which ought to engage a Lady, who has a true Sense of that delicate Pa.s.sion; that upon this Principle he yielded the Preference to _Zeokinizul_, 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 young _Ba.s.sa_, 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 as _Kofir_, 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 artful Companion plying him with b.u.mpers, 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 to _Zeokinizul_. As the young _Ba.s.sa_ appeared 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 Pa.s.sion 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 Pa.s.sion.

This little Artifice proved of very happy Consequence to _Zeokinizul_.

The young _Ba.s.sa_, 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 to _Nasica_, in which her Lover freely exhorts her to take him for a Patern, and make another Choice. All these Batteries being so well disposed, _Zeokinizul_ began 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. _Nasica_ alone, seem'd insensible in the midst of all these Entertainments. She retired at a Distance to avoid the Conversation of the gallant n.o.bility. 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. Charming _Nasica_, 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, G.o.ds! 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 charming _Nasica_ be angry, continued he, perceiving, that she heard him with Resentment, I love you indeed, but my Pa.s.sion 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, replied _Nasica_, resolutely, your Highness can only offer me a guilty Pa.s.sion, 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 great _Zeokinizul_ is 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 which _Nasica_ had 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 Opportunities of 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. _Zeokinizul_ admired 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 young _Ba.s.sa_'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 dear _Nasica_. 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 reaching _Nasica_'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 Pa.s.sion, and he set out with a Willingness to perish, provided he could once more 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 at _Kofir_. 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 Pa.s.sion 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, when _Nasica_, 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 unhappy _Ba.s.sa_, who is now to fall your Victim. But his Views were honourable, nor were mine less innocent. Let your Highness p.r.o.nounce the Decree of his Destiny, mine is inseperably annexed to it whatever it be.

_Zeokinizul_ was moved with such exalted Virtue, and being naturally tender and compa.s.sionate, 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 up _Nasica_, and gave Orders himself for the Preparations of her Marriage with the young _Ba.s.sa_, 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 for _Nasica_ settled 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 n.o.ble Cares were not disappointed, for the Name of the great _Zeokinizul_, and the ill.u.s.trious Heir of his Crown, will be held in immortal Remembrance among the grateful _Kofirans_.