THE INDUCTION OF THE AUTHOR TO THE FOLLOWING DISCOURSES

 

  Gracious Ladies, so often as I consider with my selfe, and observe

respectively, how naturally you are enclined to compassion; as many

times doe I acknowledge, that this present worke of mine, will (in

your judgement) appeare to have but a harsh and offensive beginning,

in regard of the mournfull remembrance it beareth at the verie

entrance of the last Pestilentiall mortality, universally hurtfull

to all that beheld it, or otherwise came to knowledge of it. But for

all that, I desire it may not be so dreadfull to you, to hinder your

further proceeding in reading, as if none were to looke thereon, but

with sighes and teares. For, I could rather wish, that so fearefull

a beginning, should seeme but as an high and steepy hil appeares to

them, that attempt to travell farre on foote, and ascending the same

with some difficulty, come afterward to walk upon a goodly even

plaine, which causeth the more contentment in them, because the

attayning thereto was hard and painfull. For even as pleasures are cut

off by griefe and anguish; so sorrowes cease by joyes most sweete

and happie arriving.

  After this briefe mollestation; briefe I say, because it is

contained within small compasse of Writing; immediately followeth

the most sweete and pleasant taste of pleasure, whereof (before) I

made promise to you. Which (peradventure) could not bee expected by

such a beginning, if promise stood not thereunto engaged. And

indeed, if I could well have conveyed you to the center of my

desire, by any other way, then so rude and rocky a passage as this is,

I would gladly have done it. But because without this Narration, we

could not demonstrate the occasion how and wherefore the matters

hapned, which you shall reade in the ensuing Discourses: I must set

them downe (even as constrained thereto by meere necessity) in writing

after this manner.

  The yeare of our blessed Saviours incarnation, 1348, that

memorable mortality happened in the excellent City, farre beyond all

the rest in Italy; which plague, by operation of the superiour bodies,

or rather for our enormous iniquities, by the just anger of God was

sent upon us mortals. Some few yeeres before, it tooke beginning in

the Easterne partes, sweeping thence an innumerable quantity of living

soules: extending it selfe afterward from place to place Westward,

until it seized on the said City. Where neither humane skill or

providence, could use any prevention, notwithstanding it was

cleansed of many annoyances, by diligent Officers thereto deputed:

besides prohibition of all sickly persons enterance, and all

possible provision dayly used for conservation of such as were in

health, with incessant prayers and supplications of devoute people,

for the asswaging of so dangerous a sicknesse.

  About the beginning of the yeare, it also began in very strange

manner, as appeared by divers admirable effects; yet not as it had

done in the East Countries, where Lord or Lady being touched

therewith, manifest signes of inevitable death followed thereon, by

bleeding at the nose. But here it began with yong children, male and

female, either under the armepits, or in the groine by certaine

swellings, in some to the bignesse of an Apple, in others like an

Egge, and so in divers greater or lesser, which (in their vulgar

Language) they termed to be a Botch or Byle. In very short time after,

those two infected parts were growne mortiferous, and would disperse

abroad indifferently, to all parts of the body; whereupon, such was

the quality of the disease, to shew it selfe by blacke or blew

spottes, which would appeare on the armes of many, others on their

thighes, and every part else of the body: in some great and few, in

others small and thicke.

  Now, as the Byle (at the beginning) was an assured signe of neere

approaching death; so prooved the spots likewise to such as had

them: for the curing of which sicknesse it seemed, that the Physitians

counsell, the vertue of Medicines, or any application else, could

not yeeld any remedy: but rather it plainely appeared, that either the

nature of the disease would not endure it, or ignorance in the

Physitians could not comprehend from whence the cause proceeded, and

so by consequent, no resolution was to be determined. Moreover, beside

the number of such as were skilfull in Art, many more both women and

men, without ever having any knowledge in Physicke, became Physitians:

so that not onely few were healed, but (well-neere) all dyed, within

three dayes after the saide signes were seene; some sooner, and others

later, commonly without either Feaver, or any other accident.

  And this pestilence was yet of farre greater power or violence; for,

not onely healthfull persons speaking to the sicke, comming to see

them, or ayring cloathes in kindnesse to comfort them, was an occasion

of ensuing death: but touching their garments, or any foode whereon

the sicke person fed, or any thing else used in his service, seemed to

transferre the disease from the sicke to the sound, in very rare and

miraculous manner. Among which matter of marvell, let me tell you

one thing, which if the eyes of many (as well as mine owne) had not

seene, hardly could I be perswaded to write it, much lesse to

beleeve it, albeit a man of good credit should report it. I say,

that the quality of this contagious pestilence was not onely of such

efficacy, in taking and catching it one of another, either men or

women: but it extended further, even in the apparent view of many,

that the cloathes, or anything else, wherein one died of that disease,

being toucht, or lyen on by any beast, farre from the kind or

quality of man, they did not onely contaminate and infect the said

beast, were it Dogge, Cat, or any other; but also it died very soone

after.

  Mine owne eyes (as formerly I have said) among divers other, one day

had evident experience heereof: for some poore ragged cloathes of

linnen and wollen, torne from a wretched body dead of that disease,

and hurled in the open streete; two Swine going by, and (according

to their naturall inclination) seeking for foode on every dunghill,

tossed and tumbled the cloaths with their snouts, rubbing their

heads likewise upon them; and immediately, each turning twice or

thrice about, they both fell downe dead on the saide cloathes, as

being fully infected with the contagion of them: which accident, and

other the like, if not far greater, begat divers feares and

imaginations in them that beheld them, all tending to a most

inhumane and uncharitable end; namely, to flie thence from the

sicke, and touching any thing of theirs, by which meanes they

thought their health should be safely warranted.

  Some there were, who considered with themselves, that living

soberly, with abstinence from all superfluity; it would be a

sufficient resistance against all hurtfull accidents. So combining

themselves in a sociable manner, they lived as separatists from all

other company, being shut up in such houses, where no sicke body

should be neere them. And there, for their more security, they used

delicate viands and excellent wines, avoiding luxurie, and refusing

speech to one another, not looking forth at the windowes, to heare

no cries of dying people, or see any coarses carried to buriall; but

having musicall instruments, lived there in all possible pleasure.

Others, were of a contrary opinion, who avouched, that there was no

other physicke more certaine, for a disease so desperate, then to

drinke hard, be merry among themselves, singing continually, walking

every where, and satisfying their appetites with whatsoever they

desired, laughing, and mocking at every mournefull accident, and so

they vowed to spend day and night: for now they would goe to one

Taverne, then to another, living without any rule or measure; which

they might very easily doe, because every one of them, (as if he

were to live no longer in this World) had even forsaken all things

that hee had. By meanes whereof, the most part of the houses were

become common, and all strangers, might do the like (if they pleased

to adventure it) even as boldly as the Lord or owner, without any

let or contradiction.

  Yet in all this their beastly behaviour, they were wise enough, to

shun (so much as they might) the weake and sickly: In misery and

affliction of our City, the venerable authority of the Lawes, as

well divine as humane, was even destroyed, as it were, through want of

the lawfull Ministers of them. For they being all dead, or lying sicke

with the rest, or else lived so solitary, in such great necessity of

servants and attendants, as they could not execute any office, whereby

it was lawfull for every one to do as he listed.

  Betweene these two rehearsed extremities of life, there were other

of a more moderate temper, not being so daintily dieted as the

first, nor drinking so dissolutely as the second; but used all

things sufficient for their appetites, and without shutting up

themselves, walked abroad, some carrying sweete nosegayes of flowers

in their hands; others odoriferous herbes, and others divers kinds

of spiceries, holding them to their noses, and thinking them most

comfortable for the braine, because the ayre seemed to be much

infected by the noysome smell of dead carkases, and other hurtfull

savours. Some other there were also of more inhumane minde (howbeit

peradventure it might be the surest) saying, that there was no

better physicke against the pestilence, nor yet so good, as to flie

away from it, which argument mainely moving them, and caring for no

body but themselves, very many, both men and women, forsooke the City,

their owne houses, their Parents, Kindred, Friends, and Goods,

flying to other mens dwellings else-where. As if the wrath of God,

in punnishing the sinnes of men with this plague, would fall heavily

upon none, but such as were enclosed within the City wals; or else

perswading themselves, that not any should there bee left alive, but

that the finall ending of all things was come.

  Now albeit these persons in their diversity of opinions died not

all, so undoubtedly they did not all escape; but many among them

becomming sicke, and making a generall example of their flight and

folly, among them that could not stirre out of their beds, they

languished more perplexedly then the other did. Let us omit, that

one Citizen fled after another, and one neighbour had not any care

of another, Parents nor kinred never visiting them, but utterly they

were forsaken on all sides: this tribulation pierced into the hearts

of men, and with such a dreadfull terrour, that one Brother forsooke

another, the Unkle the Nephew, the Sister the Brother, and the Wife

her Husband: nay, a matter much greater, and almost incredible;

Fathers and Mothers fled away from their owne Children, even as if

they had no way appertained to them. In regard whereof, it could be no

otherwise, but that a countlesse multitude of men and women fell

sicke; finding no charity among their friends, except a very few,

and subject to the avarice of servants, who attended them

constrainedly, (for great and unreasonable wages) yet few of those

attendants to be found any where too. And they were men or women but

of base condition, as also of groser understanding, who never before

had served in any such necessities, nor indeed were any way else to be

imployed; but to give the sicke person such things as hee called

for, or to awaite the houre of his death; in the performance of

which service, oftentimes for gaine, they lost their owne lives.

  In this extreame calamity, the sicke being thus forsaken of

neighbors, kinred, and friends, standing also in such need of

servants; a custome came up among them, never heard of before, that

there was not any woman, how noble, young, or faire soever shee was,

but falling sicke, shee must of necessity have a man to attend her,

were hee young or otherwise, respect of shame or modesty no way

prevailing, but all parts of her body must be discovered to him, which

(in the like urgency) was not to be seene by any but women: whereon

ensued afterward, that upon the parties healing and recovery, it was

the occasion of further dishonesty, which many being more modestly

curious of, refused such disgracefull attending, chusing rather to

die, then by such helpe to bee healed. In regard whereof, as well

through the want of convenient remedies, (which the sicke by no meanes

could attaine unto) as also the violence of the contagion, the

multitude of them that died night and day, was so great, that it was a

dreadfull sight to behold, and as much to heare spoken of. So that

meere necessity (among them that remained living) begat new

behaviours, quite contrary to all which had beene in former times, and

frequently used among the City Inhabitants.

  The custome of precedent dayes (as now againe it is) was, that

women, kinred, neighbours, and friends, would meete together at the

deceased parties house, and there, with them that were of neerest

alliance, expresse their hearts sorrow for their friends losse. If not

thus, they would assemble before the doore, with many of the best

Cittizens and kindred, and (according to the quality of the

deceased) the Cleargy met there likewise, and the dead body was

carried (in comely manner) on mens shoulders, with funerall pompe of

Torch light, and singing, to the Church appointed by the deceased. But

these seemely orders, after that the fury of the pestilence began to

encrease, they in like manner altogether ceased, and other new

customes came in their place; because not onely people died, without

having any women about them, but infinites also past out of this life,

not having any witnesse, how, when, or in what manner they departed.

So that few or none there were, to deliver outward shew of sorrow

and grieving: but insteed thereof, divers declared idle joy and

rejoycing, a use soone learned of immodest women, having put off all

feminine compassion, yea, or regard of their owne welfare.

  Very few also would accompany the body to the grave, and they not

any of the Neighbours, although it had beene an honourable Citizen,

but onely the meanest kinde of people, such as were grave-makers,

coffin-bearers, or the like, that did these services onely for

money, and the beere being mounted on their shoulders, in all hast

they would runne away with it, not perhaps to the Church appointed

by the dead, but to the neerest at hand, having some foure or sixe

poore Priests following, with lights or no lights, and those of the

silliest; short service being said at the buriall, and the body

unreverently throwne into the first open grave they found. Such was

the pittifull misery of poore people, and divers, who were of better

condition, as it was most lamentable to behold; because the greater

number of them, under hope of healing, or compelled by poverty, kept

still within their house weake and faint, thousands falling sicke

daily, and having no helpe, or being succoured any way with foode or

physicke, all of them died, few or none escaping.

  Great store there were, that died in the streetes by day or night,

and many more beside, although they died in their houses; yet first

they made it knowne to their neighbours, that their lives perished,

rather by the noysome smell of dead and putrified bodies, then by

any violence of the disease in themselves. So that of these and the

rest, dying in this manner every where, the neighbours observed one

course of behaviour, (moved thereto no lesse by feare, that the

smell and corruption of dead bodies should harme them, then charitable

respect of the dead) that themselves when they could, or being

assisted by some bearers of coarses, when they were able to procure

them, would hale the bodies (already dead) out of their houses, laying

them before their doores, where such as passed by, especially in the

mornings, might see them lying in no meane numbers. Afterward,

Bieres were brought thither, and such as might not have the helpe of

Bieres, were glad to lay them on tables; and Bieres have bin observed,

not onely to be charged with two or three dead bodies at once, but

many times it was seene also, that the wife with the husband, two or

three Brethren together; yea, the Father and the Mother, have thus

beene carried along to the grave upon one Biere.

  Moreover, oftentimes it hath beene seene, that when two Priests went

with one Crosse to fetch the body; there would follow (behind) three

or foure bearers with their Bieres, and when the Priests intended

the buriall but of one body, sixe or eight more have made up the

advantage, and yet none of them being attended by any seemly

company, lights, teares, or the very least decencie, but it plainly

appeared, that the very like account was then made of Men or Women, as

if they had bene Dogges or Swine. Wherein might manifestly bee

noted, that that which the naturall course of things could not shew to

the wise, with rare and little losse, to wit, the patient support of

miseries and misfortunes, even in their greatest height: not onely the

wise might now learne, but also the very simplest people; and in

such sort, that they should alwaies bee prepared against all

infelicities whatsoever.

  Hallowed ground could not now suffice, for the great multitude of

dead bodies, which were daily brought to every Church in the City, and

every houre in the day; neither could the bodies have proper place

of buriall, according to our ancient custome: wherefore, after that

the Churches and Church-yards were filled, they were constrained to

make use of great deepe ditches, wherein they were buried by

hundreds at once, ranking dead bodies along in graves, as Merchandizes

are laide along in ships, covering each after other with a small

quantity of earth, and so they filled at last up the whole ditch to

the brim.

  Now, because I would wander no further in everie particularity,

concerning the miseries happening in our Citie: I tell you, that

extremities running on in such manner as you have heard, little

lesse spare was made in the Villages round about; wherein (setting

aside enclosed Castles which were now filled like to small Cities)

poore Labourers and Husband-men, with their whole Families, dyed

most miserably in outhouses, yea, and in the open fieldes also;

without any assistance of physicke, or helpe of servants; and likewise

in the high-wayes, or their ploughed landes, by day or night

indifferently, yet not as men, but like brute beasts.

  By meanes whereof, they became lazie and slothfull in their dayly

endevours, even like to our Citizens; not minding or medling with

their wonted affaires: but, as a waiting for death every houre,

imployed all their paines, not in caring any way for themselves, their

cattle, or gathering the fruits of the earth, or any of their

accustomed labours; but rather wasted and consumed, even such as

were for their instant sustenance. Whereupon, it fell so out, that

their Oxen, Asses, Sheepe, and Goates, their Swine, Pullen, yea

their verie Dogges, the truest and faithfullest servants to men, being

beaten and banished from their houses, went wildly wandring abroad

in the fields, where the Corne grew still on the ground without

gathering, or being so much as reapt or cut. Many of the foresaid

beasts (as endued with reason) after they had pastured themselves in

the day time, would returne full fed at night home to their houses,

without any government of Heardsmen, or any other.

  How many faire Palaces! How many goodly Houses! How many noble

habitations, filled before with families of Lords and Ladies, were

then to be seene emptie, without any one there dwelling, except some

silly servant? How many Kindreds, worthy of memory! How many great

inheritances! And what plenty of riches; were left without any true

successours? How many good men! How many woorthy Women! How many

valiant and comely young men, whom none but Galen, Hippocrates, and

Aeesculapius (if they were living) could have bene reputed any way

unhealthfull; were seene to dine at morning with their Parents,

Friends, and familiar confederates, and went to sup in another world

with their Predecessors?

  It is no meane breach to my braine, to make repetition of so many

miseries; wherefore, being willing to part with them as easily as I

may: I say that our Citie being in this case, voide of inhabitants, it

came to passe (as afterward I understoode by some of good credite)

that in the venerable Church of S. Marie la Neufue, on a Tuesday

morning, there being then no other person, after the hearing of divine

Service, in mourning habits (as the season required) returned thence

seven discrete young Gentlewomen, all allyed together, either by

friendship, neighbor-hood, or parentage. She among them that was

most entred into yeares, exceeded not eight and twenty; and the

yongest was no lesse then eighteene; being of Noble descent, faire

forme, adorned with exquisite behaviour, and gracious modesty.

  Their names I could report, if just occasion did not forbid it, in

regard of the occasions following by them related, and because times

heereafter shall not taxe them with reproofe; the lawes of pleasure

being more straited now adayes (for the matters before revealed)

then at that time they were, not onely to their yeares but to many

much riper. Neither will I likewise minister matter to rash heades

(over-readie in censuring commendable life) any way to impaire the

honestie of Ladies, by their idle detracting speeches. And

therefore, to the end that what each of them saith, may be

comprehended without confusion; I purpose to stile them by names,

wholly agreeing, or (in part) conformable to their qualities. The

first and most aged, we will name Pampinea; the second Fiametta; the

third Philamena; the fourth Aemilia; the fift Lauretta; the sixt

Neiphila; and the last we terme (not without occasion) Elissa, or

Eliza. All of them being assembled at a corner of the Church, not by

any deliberation formerly appointed, but meerely by accident, and

sitting, as it were in a round ring: after divers sighs severelly

delivered, they conferred on sundry matters answerable to the sad

qualitie of the time, and within a while after, Madam Pampinea began

in this manner.

  Faire Ladies, you may (no doubt as well as I) have often heard, that

no injury is offered to any one, by such as make use but of their owne

right. It is a thing naturall for everie one which is borne in this

World, to aide, conserve, and defend her life so long as shee can; and

this right hath bene so powerfully permitted, that although it hath

sometimes happened, that (to defend themselves) men have beene

slaine without any offence: yet Lawes have allowed it to be so, in

whose solicitude lieth the best living of all mortals. How much more

honest and just is it then for us, and for every other well-disposed

person, to seeke for (without wronging any) and to practise all

remedies that wee can, for the conservation of our lives? When I

well consider, what we have heere done this morning, and many other

already past (remembring (withall) what likewise is proper and

convenient for us:) I conceive (as all you may do the like) that

everie one of us hath a due respect of her selfe, and then I

mervaile not, but rather am much amazed (knowing none of us to be

deprived of a Womans best judgement) that wee seeke not after some

remedies for our selves, against that, which everie one among us,

ought (in reason) to feare.

  Heere we meete and remaine (as it seemeth to mee) in no other

manner, then as if we would or should be witnesses, to all the dead

bodies at rest in their grave; or else to listen, when the religious

Sisters heere dwelling (whose number now are well-neere come to bee

none at all) sing Service at such houres as they ought to doe; or else

to acquaint all commers hither (by our mourning habits) with the

quality and quantitie of our hearts miseries. And when we part

hence, we meete with none but dead bodies; or sicke persons

transported from one place to another; or else we see running thorow

the City (in most offensive fury) such as (by authoritie of publike

Lawes) were banished hence, onely for their bad and brutish

behaviour in contempt of those Lawes, because now they know, that

the executors of them are dead and sicke. And if not these, more

lamentable spectacles present themselves to us, by the base

rascality of the City; who being fatted with our blood, tearme

themselves Grave-makers, and in meere contemptible mockeries of us,

are mounted on horsebacke, gallopping every where, reproaching us with

our losses and misfortunes, with lewd and dishonest songs: so that

we can heare nothing else but such and such are dead, and such and

such lie a dying: here hands wringing, and every where most

pittifull complaining.

  If we returne home to our houses (I know not whether your case be

answerable to mine) when I can finde none of all my Family, but

onely my poore waiting Chamber-maide; so great are my feares, that the

very haire on my head declareth my amazement, and wheresoever I go

or sit downe, methinkes I see the ghostes and shadowes of deceased

friends, not with such lovely lookes as I was wont to behold them, but

with most horrid and dreadfull regards, newly stolne upon them I

know not how. In these respects, both heere, else-where, and at home

in my house, methinkes I am alwaies ill, and much more (in mine owne

opinion) then any other body, not having meanes or place of

retirement, as all we have, and none to remaine heere but onely we.

  Moreover, I have often heard it said, that in tarrying or departing,

no distinction is made in things honest or dishonest; onely appetite

will be served; and be they alone or in company, by day or night, they

do whatsoever their appetite desireth: not secular persons onely,

but such as are recluses, and shut up within Monasteries, breaking the

Lawes of obedience, and being addicted to pleasures of the flesh,

are become lascivious and dissolute, making the world beleeve, that

whatsoever is convenient for other women, is no way unbeseeming

them, as thinking in that manner to escape.

  If it be so, as manifestly it maketh shew of it selfe; What do we

here? What stay we for? And whereon do we dreame? Why are we more

respectlesse of our health, then all the rest of the Citizens?

Repute we our selves lesse precious then all the other? Or do we

beleeve, that life is linked to our bodies with stronger chaines, then

to others, and that therefore we should not feare any thing that

hath power to offend us? Wee erre therein, and are deceived. What

brutishnesse were it in us, if we should urge any such beleefe? So

often as we call to minde, what and how many gallant yong men and

women, have beene devoured by this cruell pestilence; we may evidently

observe a contrary argument.

  Wherefore, to the end, that by being over-scrupulous and

carelesse, we fall not into such danger, whence when we would

(perhaps) we cannot recover our selves by any meanes: I thinke it

meete (if your judgement therein shall jumpe with mine) that all of us

as we are (at least, if we will doe as divers before us have done, and

yet dally endeavour to doe) shunning death by the honest example of

other, make our retreate to our Country houses, wherewith all of us

are sufficiently furnished, and there to delight our selves as best we

may, yet without transgressing (in any act) the limits of reason.

There shall we heare the pretty birds sweetly singing, see the

hilles and plaines verdantly flouring; the Corne waving in the field

like the billowes of the Sea, infinite store of goodly trees, and

the Heavens more fairely open to us, then here we can behold them. And

although they are justly displeased, yet will they not there deny us

better beauties to gaze on, then the walles in our City (emptied of

Inhabitants) can affoord us.

  Moreover, the Ayre is much fresh and cleere, and generally, there is

farre greater abundance of all things whatsoever, needefull at this

time for preservation of our health, and lesse offence or mollestation

then we find here.

  And although Country people die, as well as heere our Citizens

doe, the griefe notwithstanding is so much the lesse, as the houses

and dwellers there are rare, in comparison of them in our City. And

beside, if we well observe it, here we forsake no particular person,

but rather we may tearme our selves forsaken; in regard that our

Husbands, Kinred, and Friends, either dying, or flying from the

dead, have left us alone in this great affliction, even as if we

were no way belonging unto them. And therefore, by following this

counsell, we cannot fall into any reprehension; whereas if we

neglect and refuse it, danger, distresse, and death (perhaps) may

ensue thereon.

  Wherefore, if you thinke good, I would allow it for well done, to

take our waiting women, with all such things as are needfull for us,

and (as this day) betake our selves to one place, to morrow to

another, taking there such pleasure and recreation, as so sweete a

season liberally bestoweth on us. In which manner we may remaine, till

we see (if death otherwise prevent us not) what end the gracious

Heavens have reserved for us. I would have you also to consider,

that it is no lesse seemely for us to part hence honestly, then a

great number of other Women to remaine here immodestly.

  The other Ladies and Gentlewomen, having heard Madam Pampinea, not

onely commended her counsell, but desiring also to put it in

execution; had already particularly consulted with themselves, by what

meanes they might instantly depart from thence. Neverthelesse, Madam

Philomena, who was very wise, spake thus.

  Albeit faire Ladies, the case propounded by Madam Pampinea hath

beene very well delivered; yet (for all that) it is against reason for

us to rush on, as we are overready to doe. Remember that we are all

women, and no one among us is so childish, but may consider, that when

wee shall be so assembled together, without providence or conduct of

some man, we can hardly governe our selves. Wee are fraile, offensive,

suspitious, weake spirited, and fearefull: in regard of which

imperfections, I greatly doubt (if we have no better direction then

our owne) this society will sooner dissolve it selfe, and

(perchance) with lesse honour to us, then if we never had begunne

it. And therefore it shall bee expedient for us, to provide before

we proceede any further. Madam Eliza hereon thus replyed.

  Most true it is, that men are the chiefe or head of women, and

without their order, sildome times do any matters of ours sort to

recommendable end. But what meanes shal we make for men? We all know

well enough, that the most part of our friends are dead, and such as

are living, some be dispersed heere, others there, into divers

places and companies, where we have no knowledge of their being; and

to accept of strangers, would seeme very inconvenient: wherefore as we

have such care of our health, so should we bee as respective

withall, in ordering our intention, that wheresoever we ayme at our

pleasure and contentment, reproofe and scandall may by no meanes

pursue us.

  While this discourse thus held among the Ladies, three young

Gentlemen came foorth of the Church (yet not so young, but the

youngest had attained to five and twenty yeares:) in whom neyther

malice of the time, losse of friends or kindred, nor any fearefull

conceit in themselves, had the power to quench affection, but

(perhaps) might a little coole it, in regard of the queazie season.

One of them called himselfe Pamphilus, the second Philostratus, and

the last Dioneus. Each of them was very affable and well

conditioned, and walked abroad (for their greater comfort in such a

time of tribulation) to try if they could meete with their fayre

friends, who (happily) might all three be among these seaven, and

the rest kinne unto them in one degree or other. No sooner were

these Ladies espyed by them, but they met with them also in the same

advantage; whereupon Madam Pampinea (amiably smiling) said.

  See how graciously Fortune is favourable to our beginning, by

presenting our eyes with three so wise and worthy young Gentlemen, who

will gladly be our guides and servants, if wee doe not disdaine them

the office. Madam Neiphila began immediatly to blush, because one of

them had a Love in the company, and said; Good Madam Pampinea take

heed what you say, because (of mine owne knowledge) nothing can be

spoken but good of them all; and I thinke them all to be absolutely

sufficient for a farre greater employment then is here intended: as

being well worthy to keepe company not onely with us, but them of more

faire and precious esteeme then we are. But because it appeareth

plainly enough, that they beare affection to some heere among us, I

feare, if wee should make the motion, that some dishonor or reproofe

may ensue thereby, and yet without blame either in us or them. That is

nothing at all, answered Madam Philomena, let me live honestly, and my

Conscience not checke me with any crime; speake then who can to the

contrary, God and truth shall enter armes for me. I wish that they

were as willing to come, as all we are to bid them welcome: for

truly (as Madam Pampinea saide) we may very well hope, that Fortune

will bee furtherous to our purposed journey.

  The other Ladies hearing them speake in such manner, not only were

silent to themselves, but all with one accord and consent said, that

it were well done to call them, and to acquaint them with their

intention, entreating their company in so pleasant a voyage.

Whereupon, without any more words, Madam Pampinea mounting on her

feete (because one of the three was her Kinsman) went towards them, as

they stood respectively observing them; and (with a pleasing

countenance) giving them a gracious salutation, declared to them their

deliberation, desiring (in behalfe of all the rest) that with a

brotherly and modest mind, they would vouchsafe to beare them company.

  The Gentlemen imagined at the first apprehension, that this was

spoken in mockage of them; but when they better perceived that her

words tended to solenme earnest, they made answer, That they were

all hartily ready to doe them any service. And without any further

delaying, before they departed thence, took order for their aptest

furnishing with all convenient necessaries, and sent word to the place

of their first appointment. On the morrow, being Wednesday, about

breake of day, the Ladies, with certaine of their attending

Gentlewomen, and the three Gentlemen, having three servants to waite

on them, left the Citie to beginne their journey; and having travelled

about a leagues distance, arrived at the place of their first

purpose of stay, which was seated on a little hill, distant (on all

sides) from any high way, plentifully stored with faire spreading

Trees, affoording no meane delight to the eye. On the top of all,

stood a stately Palace, having a large and spacious Court in the

middest round engirt with Galleries, Hals, and Chambers, every one

separate alone by themselves, and beautified with Pictures of

admirable cunning. Nor was there any want of Gardens, Meadowes, and

other most pleasant Walkes, with Welles and Springs of faire running

waters, all encompassed with branching Vines, fitter for curious and

quaffing bibbers, then women sober, and singularly modest.

  This Pallace the company found fully fitted and prepared, the beddes

in the Chambers made and daintily ordred, thickly strewed with variety

of flowers, which could not but give them the greater contentment.

Dioneus, who (above the other) was a pleasant young gallant, and

full of infinite witty conceits, saide; Your wit (faire Ladies) hath

better guided us hither, then our providence: I know not how you

have determined to dispose of your cares; as for mine owne, I left

them at the Cittie gate, when I came thence with you: and therefore

let your resolution bee, to spend the time here in smiles and singing,

(I meane, as may fittest agree with your dignity) or else give me

leave to go seeke my sorrowes agains, and so to remaine discontented

in our desolate City. Madam Pampinea having in like manner shaken

off her sorrowes, delivering a modest and bashfull smile, replyed in

this manner.

  Dioneus, well have you spoken, it is fit to live merrily, and no

other occasion made us forsake the sicke and sad Cittie. But,

because such things as are without meane or measure, are subject to no

long continuance: I, who began the motion, whereby this societie is

thus assembled, and ayme at the long lasting thereof, doe hold it

verie convenient, that wee should all agree, to have one chiefe

Commander among us, in whom the care and providence should consist,

for direction of our merriment, performing honour and obedience to the

partie, as to our Patrone and sole Governour. And because every one

may feele the burthen of solicitude, as also the pleasure of

commanding, and consequently have a sensible taste of both, whereby no

envy may arise on any side, I could wish, that each one of us (for a

day onely) should feele both the burthen and honour, and the person so

to be advanced, shall receive it from the election of us all. As for

such as are to succeed, after him or her that hath had the dayes of

dominion, the party thought fit for succession, must be named so soone

as night approacheth. And being in this eminency (according as he or

she shall please) he may order and dispose how long the time of his

rule shall last, as also of the place and maner, where best we may

continue our delight.

  These words were highly pleasing to them all, and by generall voice,

Madame Pampinea was chosen Queene for the first day. Whereupon, Madame

Philomena ranne presently to a Bay-tree, because she had often heard

what honor belonged to those branches, and how worthy of honour they

were, that rightfully were crowned with them, plucking off divers

branches, shee made of them an apparant and honourable Chaplet,

placing it (by generall consent) upon her head; and this so long as

their company continued, manifested to all the rest, the signall of

Dominion, and Royall greatnesse.

  After that Madame Pampinea was thus made Queen, she commanded

publique silence, and causing the Gentlemens three servants, and the

wayting women also (being foure in number) to be brought before her,

thus she beganne. Because I am to give the first example to you all,

whereby proceeding on from good to better, our company may live in

order and pleasure, acceptable to all, and without shame to any; I

create Parmeno (servant to Dioneus) Maister of the Houshold, hee

taking the care and charge of all our Trayne, and for whatsoever

appertayneth to our Hall service. I appoint also, that Silisco servant

to Pamphilus, shall bee our Dispenser and Treasurer, erforming that

which Parmeno shal command him. Likewise that Tindaro serve as

Groome of the Chamber, to Philostratus his Master, and the other

two, when his fellowes impeached by their offices, cannot be

present. Misia my Chambermaid, and Licisca belonging to Philomena,

shall serve continually in the Kitchin, and diligently make ready such

Vyands, as shal be delivered them by Parmeno. Chimera, waitingwoman to

Lauretta, and Stratilia appertaining to Fiammetta, shall have the

charge and governement of the Ladies Chambers, and preparing all

places where we shall be present. Moreover, we will and commaund

everie one of them (as they desire to deserve our grace) that

wheresoever they goe or come, or whatsoever they heare or see: they

especially respect to bring us tydings of them. After shee had

summarily delivered them these orders, very much commended of everie

one, she arose fairely, saying: Heere we have Gardens, Orchardes,

Medowes, and other places of sufficient pleasure, where every one

may sport and recreate themselves: but so soone as the ninth houre

striketh, then all to meet here againe, to dine in the coole shade.

  This jocund company having received licence from their Queene to

disport themselves, the Gentlemen walked with the Ladies into a goodly

Garden, making Chaplets and Nosegayes of divers flowers, and singing

silently to themselves. When they had spent the time limitted by the

Queene, they returned into the house, where they found that Parmeno

had effectually executed his office. For, when they entred into the

hall, they saw the Tables covered with delicate white Napery, and

the glasses looking like silver, they were so transparantly cleere,

all the roome beside strewed with Flowers of Juniper. When the Queen

and all the rest had washed, according as Parmeno gave order, so every

one was seated at the Table: the Viands (delicately drest) were served

in, and excellent wines plentifully delivered, none attending but

the three servants, and little or no lowd Table-talke passing among

them.

  Dinner being ended, and the Tables withdrawne (all the Ladies, and

the Gentlemen likewise, being skilfull both in singing and dancing,

and playing on instruments artificially) the Queene commanded, that

divers Instruments should be brought, and (as she gave charge) Dioneus

tooke a Lute, and Fiammetta a Violl de gamba, and began to play an

excellent daunce. Whereupon, the Queene with the rest of the Ladies,

and the other two young Gentlemen (having sent their attending

servants to dinner) paced foorth a daunce very majestically. And

when the dance was ended, they sung sundry excellent Canzonets,

outwearing so the time, untill the Queene commanded them all to

rest, because the houre did necessarily require it. The Gentlemen

having their Chambers farre severed from the Ladies, curiously strewed

with flowers, and their beds adorned in exquisite manner, as those

of the Ladies were not a jotte inferiour to them; the silence of the

night bestowed sweet rest on them al. In the morning, the Queene and

all the rest being risen, accounting over much sleepe to be very

hurtfull, they walked abroad into a goodly Meadow, where the grasse

grew verdantly, and the beames of the Sun heated not overviolently,

because the shades of faire spreading Trees, gave a temperate

calmnesse, coole and gentle winds fanning their sweet breath

pleasingly among them. All of them being there set downe in a round

ring, and the Queen in the middest, as being the appointed place of

eminency, she spake:

  You see (faire company) that the Sunne is highly mounted, the

heate (elsewhere) too extreme for us, and therefore here is our

fittest refuge, the ayre being so coole, delicate, and acceptable, and

our folly well worthy reprehension, if we should walke further, and

speede worse. Heere are Tables, Cards, and Chesse, as your

dispositions may bee addicted. But if mine advice might passe for

currant, I would admit none of those exercises, because they are too

troublesome both to them that play, and such as looke on. I could

rather wish, that some quaint discourse might passe among us, a tale

or fable related by some one, to urge the attention of all the rest.

And so wearing out the warmth of the day, one prety Novell will draw

on another, untill the Sun be lower declined, and the heates extremity

more diminished, to solace our selves in some other place, as to our

minds shall seeme convenient. If therefore what I have sayde bee

acceptable to you (I purposing to follow in the same course of

pleasure,) let it appeare by your immediate answere; for, till the

Evening, I thinke we can devise no exercise more commodious for us.

  The Ladies and Gentlemen allowed of the motion, to spend the time in

telling pleasant tales; whereupon the Queene saide: Seeing you have

approved mine advice, I grant free permission for this first day, that

every one shall relate, what to him or her is best pleasing. And

turning her selfe to Pamphilus (who was seated on her right hand) gave

him favour, with one of his Novels, to begin the recreation: which

he not daring to deny, and perceiving generall attention prepared

for him, thus he began.