THE SEVENTH NOVELL

 

    SERVING AS AN ADMONITION TO ALL LADIES AND GENTLEWOMEN, NOT TO

     MOCK OR SCORNE GENTLEMEN-SCHOLLERS, WHEN THEY MAKE MEANES OF

         LOVE TO THEM:  EXCEPT THEY INTEND TO SEEKE THEIR OWNE

                        SHAME, BY DISGRACING THEM

 

  A young Gentleman being a Scholler, fell in love with a Ladie, named

Helena, she being a Widdow, and addicted in affection to another

Gentleman. One whole night in cold Winter, she caused the Scholler

to expect her comming, in an extreame frost and snow. In revenge

whereof, by his imagined Art and skill, he made her to stand naked

on the top of a Tower, the space of a whole day, and in the hot moneth

of July, to be Sunburnt and bitten with Waspes and Flies.

 

  Greatly did the Ladies commend Madame Philomenaes Novell, laughing

heartily at poore Calandrino, yet grieving withall, that he should

be so knavishly cheated, not onely of his Brawne, but two couple of

Capons, and a Flaggon of Wine beside. But the whole discourse being

ended; the Queene commanded Madame Pampinea, to follow next with her

Novell, and presently she thus began. It hapneth oftentimes (bright

beauties) that mockery falleth on him, that intended the same unto

another: And there. fore I am of opinion, that there is very litle

wisedom declared on him or her, who taketh delight in mocking any

person. must needs confesse, that we have smiled at many mockeries and

deceits, related in those excellent Novels, which we have already

heard: without any due revenge returned, but onely in this last of

silly Calandrino. Wherefore, it is now my determination, to urge a

kind of compassionate apprehension, upon a very just retribution,

happening to a Gentlewoman of our Citie, because her scorne fell

deservedly upon her selfe, remaining mocked, and to the perill of

her life. Let Me then assure you, that your diligent attention may

redound to your benefit, because if you keepe your selves

(henceforward) from being scorned by others: you shall expresse the

greater wisedome, and be the better warned by their mishaps.

  As yet there are not many yeares overpast, since there dwelt in

Florence, a yong Lady, descended of Noble parentage, very

beautifull, of sprightly courage, and sufficiently abounding in the

goods of Fortune, she being named Madame Helena. Her delight was to

live in the estate of Widdowhood, desiring to match her selfe no

more in marriage, because she bare affection to a gallant young

Gentleman, whom she had made her private election of, and with whom

(having excluded all other amorous cares and cogitations) by meanes of

her Waitingwoman, she had divers meetings, and kinde conferences.

  It chanced at the verie same time, another young Gentleman of our

Citie, called Reniero, having long studied in the Schooles at Paris,

returned home to Florence, not to make sale of his Learning and

experience, as many doe: but to understand the reason of things, as

also the causes and effects of them, which is mervailously fitting for

any Gentleman. Being greatly honoured and esteemed of every one, as

well for his courteous carriage towards all in generall, as for his

knowledge and excellent parts: he lived more like a familiar

Citizen, then in the nature of a Courtly Gentleman, albeit he was

choisely respected in either estate.

  But, as oftentimes it commeth to passe, that such as are endued with

the best judgement and understanding in naturall occasions, are

soonest caught and intangled in the snares of Love: so fel it out with

our Scholler Reniero, who being invited to a solemne Feast, in company

of other his especiall Friends; this Lady Helena, attyred in her

blacke Garments (as Widowes commonly use to wear) was likewise there a

Guest. His eye observing her beauty and gracious demeanour, she seemed

in his judgement, to be a Woman so compleate and perfect, as he had

never seene her equall before: and therefore, he accounted the man

more then fortunate, that was worthy to embrace her in his armes.

Continuing this amorous observation of her from time to time, and

knowing withall, that rare and excellent things are not easily

obtained, but by painefull study, labour, and endeavour: hee

resolved with himselfe constantly, to put in practise all his best

parts of industry, onely to honour and please her, and attaining to

her contentation, it would be the means to winne her love, and

compasse thereby his hearts desire.

  The yong Lady, who fixed not her eyes on inferiour subjects (but

esteemed her selfe above ordinary reach or capacity) could moove

them artificially, as curious women well know how to doe, looking on

every side about her, yet not in a gadding or grosse manner: for

she was not ignorant in such darting glaunces, as proceeded from an

enflamed affection, which appearing plainely in Reniero; with a pretty

smile, shee said to her selfe. I am not come hither this day in vaine;

for, if my judgement faile me not, I thinke I have caught a

Woodcocke by the Bill. And lending him a cunning looke or two,

queintly caried with the corner of her eye; she gave him a kinde of

perswading apprehension, that her heart was the guide to her eye.

And in this artificial Schoole-tricke of hers, shee carryed

therewith another consideration, to wit, that the more other eyes

fedde themselves on her perfections, and were (well-neere) lost in

them beyond recovery: so much the greater reason had he to account his

fortune beyond comparison, that was the sole master of her heart,

and had her love at his command.

  Our witty Scholler having set aside his Philosophicall

considerations, strove how he might best understand her carriage

toward him, and beleeving that she beheld him with pleasing regards;

hee learned to know the house where shee dwelt, passing daily by the

doore divers times, under colour of some more serious occasions:

wherein the Lady very proudly gloried, in regard of the reasons before

alleadged, and seemed to affoord him lookes of goode liking. Being led

thus with a hopefull perswasion, bee found the meanes to gaine

acquaintance with her waiting-woman, revealing to her his intire

affection, desiring her to worke for him in such sort with her Lady,

that his service might be gracious in her acceptance. The

Gentlewoman made him a very willing promise, and immediately did his

errand to her Lady; who heard her with no small pride and

squemishnesse, and breaking forth into a scornefull laughter, thus she

spake.

  Ancilla (for so she was named) dost thou not observe, how this

Scholler is come to lose all the wit heere, which he studyed so long

for in the University of Paris? Let us make him our onely Table

argument, and seeing his folly soareth so high, we will feed him

with such a dyet as hee deserveth. Yet when thou speakest next with

him, tell him, that I affect him more then he can doe me; but it

becommeth me to be carefull of mine honour, and to walke with an

untainted brow, as other Ladies and Gentlewomen doe: which he is not

to mislike, if he be so wise as he maketh shew of, but rather will the

more commend me. Alas good Lady lack-wit, little did she understand

(faire assembly) how dangerous a case it is [to] deale with Schollers.

  At his next meeting with the waiting woman, shee delivered the

message, as her Lady had commanded her, whereof poore Reniero was so

joyfull: that hee pursued his love-suite the more earnestly, and began

to write letters, send gifts, and tokens, all which were still

received, yet without any other answere to give hope, but onely in

generall, and thus shee dallied with him a long while. In the end, she

discovered this matter to her secret chosen friend, who fell

suddenly sicke of the head-ake, onely through meere conceit of

jealousie: which she perceiving, and grieving to be suspected

without any cause, especially by him whom shee esteemed above all

other; shee intended to rid him quickely of that Idle disease. And

being more and more solicited by the Scholler, she sent him word by

her maide Ancilla, that (as yet) she could find no convenient

opportunity, to yeeld him such assurance, as hee should not any way be

distrustfull of her love.

  But the Feast of Christmas was now neere at hand, which afforded

leisures much more hopefull, then any other formerly passed. And

therefore, the next night after the first Feasting day, if he

pleased to walke in the open Court of her house: she would soone

send for him, into a place much better beseeming, and where they might

freely converse together.

  Now was our Scholler the onely jocond man of the world, and failed

not the time assigned him, but went unto the Ladies house, where

Ancilla was ready to give him entertainment, conducting him into the

base Court, where she lockt him up fast, untill her Lady should send

for him. This night shee had privately sent for her friend also, and

sitting merrily at supper with him, told him, what welcome she had

given the Scholler, and how she further meant to use him, saying.

Now Sir, consider with your selfe, what hot affection I beare to

him, of whom you became so fondly jealous. The which words were very

welcome to him, and made him extraordinarily joyful; desiring to see

them as effectually performed, as they appeared to him by her

protestations.

  Heere you are to understand (Gracious Ladies) that according to

the season of the yeare, a great snow had falne the day before, so

as the whole Court was covered therewith, and being an extreame

frost upon it, our Scholler could not boast of any warme walking, when

the teeth quivered in his head with cold, as a Dog could not be more

discourteously used: yet hope of enjoying Loves recompence at

length, made him to support all this injury with admirable patience.

  Within a while after, Madame Helena said to her friend. Walke with

me (deare sal heart) into my Chamber, and there at a secret little

window, I shall shew thee what he doth, that drove thee to such a

suspition of me, and we shall heare beside, what answere he will

give my maide Ancilla, whom I will send to comfort him in his

coldnesse.

  When she had so said, they went to the appointed chamber window,

where they could easily see him, but he not them: and then they

heard Ancilla also, calling to him forth of another windowe, saying.

Signior Reniero, my Lady is the wofullest woman in the world,

because (as yet) she cannot come to you, in regard that one of her

brethren came this evening to visite her, and held her with much

longer discourse then she expected: whereby she was constrained to

invite him to sup with her, and yet he is not gone; but shortly I hope

hee will, and then expect her comming presently; till when, she

entreateth your gentle sufferance.

  Poore Renicro, our over-credulous Scholler, whose vehement affection

to Madame Helena, so hood-winkt the sight of his understanding, as

he could not be distrustfull of any guilt; returned this answere to

Ancilla. Say to your Lady that I am bound in duty, to attend the

good houre of her leisure, without so much as the very least

prejudicate conceite in me: Neverthelesse, entreat her, to let it

bee so soone as she possibly may, because here is miserable walking,

and it beginneth againe to snow extreamely. Ancilla making fast the

Casement, went presently to bed; when Helena spake thus to her amorous

friend. What saist thou now? Doest thou thinke that I loved him, as

thou wast afraid of? If I did, he should never walke thus in the frost

and snow. So, away went they likewise from their close gazing

window, and spent wanton dalliances together, laughing, and deriding

(with many bitter taunts and jests) the lamentable condition of

poore Reniero.

  About the Court walked hee numberlesse times, finding such exercises

as he could best devise, to compasse warmth in any manner: no seate or

shelter had he any where, either to ease himselfe by sitting downe a

while, or keepe him from the snow, falling continually on him, which

made him bestow many curses on the Ladies Brother, for his so long

tarrying with her, as beleeving him verily to be in the house, or else

she would (long before) have admitted his entrance, but therein his

hope was meerely deceived. It grew now to be about the houre of

midnight, and Helena had delighted her selfe with her friend

extraordinarily, til at last, thus she spake to him. What is thine

opinion of my amourous Scholler? Which dost thou imagine to be the

greatest, either his sense and judgement, or the affection I beare

to him? Is not this cold sufferance of his, able to quench the violent

heat of his loves extremitie, and having so much snow broth to helpe

it? Beleeve me (sweet Lady) quoth her friend, as hee is a man, and a

learned Scholler, I pitty that he should bee thus ungently dealt

withall: but as he is my rivall and loves enemy, I cannot allow him

the least compassion, resting the more confidently assured of your

love to me, which I will alwayes esteeme most precious.

  When they had spent a long while in this or the like conference,

with infinite sweet kisses and embraces intermixed; then she began

againe in this manner. Deare love (quoth she) cast thy Cloake about

thee, as I intend to doe with my night mantle, and let us step to

the little window once more, to see whether the flaming fire, which

burned in the Schollers brest (as daily avouched to me in his love

letters) be as yet extinct or no. So going to the window againe, and

looking downe into the Court; there they saw the Scholler dancing in

the snow, to the cold tune of his teeths quivering and chattering, and

clapping his armes about his body, which was no pleasing melody to

him. How thinkest thou now sweet heart (saide cannot I make a man

daunce without the sound of a Taber, or of a Bagpipe? yes beleeve me

Lady (quoth he) I plaine pereive you can, and would be very lothe,

that at should exercise your cunning on me.

  Nay, said shee, we will yet delight our selves a little more; let us

softly descend downe the stayres, even so farre as to the Court doore:

thou shalt not speake a word, but I will talke to him, and heare

some part of his quivering language, which cannot choose but bee

passing pleasing for us to heare.

  Out of the Chamber went they, and descended downe the stayres to the

Court doore; where, without opening it, she laide her mouth to a small

cranny, and in a low soft kinde of voyce, called him by his name:

which the Scholler hearing, was exceeding joyful, as beleeving verily,

that the houre of his deliverance was come, and entrance now should be

admitted him. Upon the hearing of her voyce, hee stept close to the

doore, saying. For charities sake, good Lady, let me come in,

because I am almost dead with cold; whereto thus she answered in

mocking manner. I make no doubt (my deare friend Reniero) but the

night is indifferent colde, and yet somewhat the warmer by the

Snowes falling: and I have heard that such weather as this, is

tenne-times more extreame at Paris, then heere in our warmer Countrey.

And trust me, I am exceeding sorrowfull, that I may not (as yet)

open the doore, because mine unhappy brother, who came (unexpected)

yester-night to suppe with mee, is not yet gone, as within a short

while (I hope) he will, and then shall I gladly set open the doore

to you, for I made an excuse to steale a little from him, onely to

cheare you with this small kind of comfort, that his so long

tarrying might be the lesse offensive to you.

  Alas sweet Madame, answered quaking and quivering Reniero, bee then

so favourable to me, as to free me from forth this open Court, where

there is no shelter or helpe for me, the snow falling still so

exceedingly, as a man might easily be more then halfe buried in it:

let me but within your doore, and there I will wait your own good

leisure. Alas deare Reniero (answered Helena) I dare not doe it,

because the doore maketh such a noyse in the opening, as it will be

too easily heard by my Brother: but I will goe and use such meanes, as

 

shortly hee shall get him gone, and then I dare boldly give you

entrance. Doe so good Madame, replyed Reniero, and let there be a

faire fire made ready, that when I am within, I may the sooner warme

my selfe; for I am so strangely benummed with colde, as well-neere I

am past all sence of feeling.

  Can it be possible (quoth Helena) that you should be so benummed

with colde? Then I plainely perceive, that men can lye in their love

letters, which I can shew under your own hand, how you fryed in

flames, and all for my love, and so have you written to me in every

letter. Poore credulous women are often thus deluded, in beleeving

what men write and speake out of passion: but I will returne backe

to my Brother, and make no doubt of dispatch, because I would gladly

have your Company.

  The amourous Friend to Helena, who stood by all this while, laughing

at the Schollers hard usage, returned up againe with her to her

Chamber, where they could not take a jote of rest, for flouting and

scorning the betrayed Scholler, As for him poore man, hee was become

like the Swanne, coldly chattering his teeth together, in a strange

new kinde of harmony to him. And perceiving himselfe to be meerely

mocked, he attempted to get open the doore, or how he might passe

forth at any other place; but being no way able to compasse it, he

walked up and downe like an angry Lyon, cursing the hard quality of

the time, the discourtesie of the Lady, the over-tedious length of the

night; but (most of all) his owne folly and simplicity, in being so

basely abused and gulde. Now began the heat of his former affection to

Helena, altered into as violent a detestation of her; Yea, extremity

of hatred in the highest degree; beating his braines, and ransacking

every corner of in. vention, by what meanes he might best be

revenged on her, which now he more earnestly desired to effect, then

to enjoy the benefit of her love, or to be embraced betweene her

armes.

  After that the sad and discomfortable night had spent it selfe,

and the break of day was beginning to appeare; Ancilla the

waiting-woman, according as she was instructed by her Lady, went downe

and opened the Court doore, and seeming exceedingly to compassionate

the Schollers unfortunate night of sufferance, saide unto him.

  Alas courteous Gentleman, in an unblessed houre came my Ladyes

brother hither yesternight, inflicting too much trouble upon us, and a

grievous time of affliction to you. But I am not ignorant, that you

being vertuous, and a judicious Scholler, have an invincible spirit of

pacience, and sufficient understanding withall; that what this night

could not affoord, another may make a sound amends for. This I can and

dare sufficiently assure you, that nothing could be more displeasing

to my Lady, neither can she well be quieted in her mind: untill she

have made a double and treble requitall, for such a strange unexpected

inconvenience, whereof she had not the very least suspition.

  Reniero swelling with discontentment, yet wisely clouding it from

open apprehension, and knowing well enough, that such golden

speeches and promises, did alwaies savour of what intemperate

spleene would more lavishly have vented foorth, and therefore in a

modest dissembling manner; without the least shew of any anger, thus

he answered.

  In good sadnesse Ancilla, I have endured the most miserablest

night of cold, frost and snow, that ever any poore Gentleman suffered;

but I know well enough, your Lady was not in any fault thereof,

neither meriteth to be blamed, for in her owne person (as being truely

compassionate of my distresse) she came so farre as the doore of

this Court, to excuse her selfe, and comfort mee. But as you saide,

and very well too, what hath failed this night, another hereafter

may more fortunately performe: in hope whereof, commend my love and

duteous service to her, and (what else remaineth mine) to your

gentle selfe.

  So our halfe frozen Scholler, scarcely able to walke upon his

legges, returned home, (so well as hee could) to his owne lodging;

where, his spirits being grievously out of order, and his eyes staring

gastly through lacke of sleepe: he lay downe on h bed, and after a

little rest, he found himselfe in much worse condition then before, as

meerely taken lame in his armes and his legges. Whereupon he was

inforced to send for Phisitions, to be advised by their councell, in

such an extremity of cold received. Immediately, they made provision

for his healthes remedie (albeit his nerves and sinewes could very

hardly extend themselves) yet in regard he was yong, and Summer

swiftly drawing on; they had the better hope of affecting his safty,

out of so great and dangerous a cold.

  But after he was become almost well and lusty againe, hee used to be

seldome seene abroad for an indifferent while; concealing his intended

revenge secret to himselfe, yet appearing more affectionate to

Madame Helena, then formerly he had beene.

  Now, it came to passe (within no long while after) that Fortune

being favourable to our injured Scholler, prepared a new accident,

wherby he might fully effect his harts desire. For the lusty yong

Gallant, who was Madame Helenaes deare darling and delight, and (for

whose sake) she dealt so inhumanely with poore Reniero: became weary

of her amourous service, and was falne in liking of another Lady,

scorning and disdaining his former Mistresse; whereat shee grew

exceedingly displeased, and began to languish in sighes and teares.

  But Ancilla her waiting-woman, compassionating the perilous

condition of her Lady, and knowing no likely meanes whereby to conquer

this oppressing melancholly, which shee suffered for the losse of

her hearts chosen friend: at length she began to consider, that the

Scholler still walked daily by the doore, as formerly hee was wont

to doe, and (by him) there might some good be done.

  A fond and foolish opinion overswayed her, that the Scholler was

extraordinarily skilfull in the Art of Nigromancy, and could thereby

so over-rule the heart of her lost friend, as hee should bee compelled

to love her againe, in as effectuall manner as before; herewith

immediately she acquainted her Lady, who being as rashly credulous, as

her maide was opinionative (never considring, that if the Scholler had

any experience in Negromancy, hee would thereby have procured his owne

successe) gave releefe to her surmise, in very joviall and comfortable

manner, and entreated her in all kindnes, to know of him, whether he

could worke such a businesse, or no, and (upon his undertaking to

effect it) shee would give absolute assurance, that (in recompence

thereof) he should unfainedly obtaine his hearts desire. Ancilla was

quicke and expeditious, in delivering this message to discontented

Reniero, whose soule being ready to mount out of his body, onely by

conceit of joy; chearefully thus he said within himselfe. Gracious

Fortune! how highly am I obliged to thee for this so great favour? Now

thou hast blest me with a happy time, to be justly revenged on so

wicked a woman, who sought the utter ruine of my life, in recompence

of the unfaigned affection I bare her. Returne to thy Lady (quoth

he) and saluting her first on my behalfe, bid her to abandon all

care in this businesse; for, if her amourous Friend were in India, I

would make him come (in meere despight of his heart) and crave mercy

of her for his base transgression. But concerning the meanes how,

and in what manner it is to bee done, especially on her owne

behalfe: I will impart it to her so soone as she pleaseth: faile not

to tell her so constantly from me, with all my utmost paines at her

service.

  Ancilla came jocondly home with her answere, and a conclusion was

set downe for their meeting together at Santa Lucia del prato, which

accordingly was performed, in very solemne conference between them.

Her fond affection had such power over her, that shee had forgot, into

what peril she brought his life, by such an unnatural nightwalke:

but disclosed all her other intention to him, how loth she was to lose

so deare a friend, and desiring him to exercise his utmost height of

skil, with large promises of her manifold favours to him, whereto

our Scholler thus replyed.

  Very true it is Madam, that among other studies at Paris, I

learned the Art of Negromancy, the depth whereof I am as skilfull

in, as anie other Scholler whatsoever. But, because it is greatly

displeasing unto God, I made a vow never to use it, either for my

selfe, or anie other. Neverthelesse, the love I beare you is of such

power, as I know not well how to denie, whatsoever you please to

command me: in which respect, if in doing you my very best service,

I were sure to bee seized on by all the divels: I will not faile to

accomplish your desire, you onely having the power to command me.

But let me tell you Madame, it is a matter not so easie to be

performed, as you perhaps may rashly imagine, especially, when a Woman

would repeale a man to love her, or a man a woman: because, it is

not to be done, but by the person whom it properly concerneth. And

therefore it behoveth, that such as would have this businesse

effected, must be of a constant minde, without the least scruple of

feare: because it is to be accomplished in the darke night season,

in which difficulties I doe not know, how you are able to warrant your

selfe, or whether you have such courage of spirit, as (with boldnes)

to adventure.

  Madame Helena, more hot in pursuite of her amorous contentment, then

any way governed by temperate discretion, presently thus answered.

Sir, Love hath set such a keene edge on my unconquerable affection, as

there is not any daunger so difficult, but I dare resolutely undertake

it, for the recovery of him, who hath so shamefullie refused my

kindnesse: wherefore (if you please) shew mee, wherein I must be so

constant and dreadlesse. The Scholler, who had (more then halfe)

caught a right Ninnyhammer by the beake, thus replyed. Madame, of

necessity I must make an image of Tin, in the name of him whom you

desire to recall. Which when I have sent you, the Moone being then

in her full, and your selfe stript starke naked: immediately after

your first sleepe, seaven times you must bathe your selfe with it in a

swift running River. Afterward, naked as you are, you must climbe up

upon some tree, or else upon an uninhabited house top, where

standing dreadlesse of any perill, and turning your face to the North,

with the Image in your hand, seaven times you must speake such wordes,

as I will deliver to you in writing.

  After you have so often spoken them, two goodly Ladies (the very

fairest that ever you beheld) wil appeare unto you, very graciously

saluting you, and demanding what you would have them to performe for

you. Safely you may speake unto them, and orderly tel them what you

desire: but be very careful, that you name not one man insted of

another. When you have uttered your mind, they wil depart from you,

and then you may descend againe, to the place where you did leave your

garments, which having putte on, then returne to your house. And

undoubtedly, before the midst of the next night following, your friend

wil come in teares to you, and humbly crave your pardon on his

knees; beeing never able afterward to be false to you, or leave your

Love for any other whatsoever.

  The Lady hearing these words, gave very setled beleefe to them,

imagining unfainedly, that shee had (more then halfe) recovered her

friend already, and held him embraced between her armes: in which

jocond perswasion, the chearful blood mounted up into hir cheekes, and

thus she replyed.

  Never make you any doubt Sir, but that I can sufficiently performe

whatsoever you have said, and am provided of the onely place in the

world, where such a weighty businesse is to be effected. For I have

a Farme or dairy house, neere adjoyning to the vale of Arno, and

closely bordering upon the same River. It beeing now the moneth of

july, the most convenientest time of all the yeare to bathe in; I

can bee the easier induced thereunto.

  Moreover, there is hard by the Rivers side a smal Tower or Turret

uninhabited; whereinto few people do sildome enter, but onely

Heardsmen or Flocke-keepers, who ascend uppe (by the helpe of a wodden

Ladder) to a Tarrasse on the top of the saide Tower, to looke all

about for their beasts, when they are wandred astray: it standing in a

solitary place, and out of the common way or resort. There dare I

boldly adventure to mount up, and with the invincible courage of a

wronged Lady (not fearing to looke death himself in the face) do al

that you have prescribed, yea, and much more, to recover my deare lost

Lover againe, whom I value equal with my owne Life.

  Reniero, who perfectly knew both the Dairy Farme, and the old smal

Turret, not a little joyful, to heare how forward shee was to shame

her selfe, answered in this manner. Madame, I was never in those parts

of the Country, albeit they are so neere to our City, and therfore I

must needs be ignorant, not onely of your Farme, but the Turret

also. But if they stand in such convenient manner as you have

described, all the world could not yeelde the like elsewhere, so apt

and sutable to your purpose: wherefore, with such expedition as

possibly can use, I will make the Image, and send it you, as also

the charme, verie fairely written. But let me entreate you, that

when you have obtayned your hearts desire, and are able to Judge

truely of my love and service: not to be unmindfull of me, but (at

your best leysure) to performe what you have with such protestations

promised; which shee gave him her hand and faith to do, without any

impeach or hinderance: and so parting, she returned home to her house.

  Our over-joyed Scholler, applauding his happy Starres, for

furthering him with faire a way to his revenge; immagining that it was

already halfe executed, made the Image in due forme, and wrote an

old Fable, insted of a Charme; both which he sent to the Lady, so

soone as he thought the time to be fitting: and this admonition

withall, that the Moone being entering into the full, without any

longer delay, she might venter on the businesse the next night

following; and remaine assured to repossesse her friend. Afterward for

the better pleasing of himselfe, he went secretly attended, onely by

his servant, to the house of a trusty frend of his, who dwelt

somwhat neere to the Turret, there to expect the issue of this

Lady-like enterprize. And Madam Helena accompanied with none but

Ancilla walked on to her dairy Farme, where the night ensuing,

pretending to take her rest sooner then formerly she used to doe,

she commanded Ancilla to bed, referring her selfe to her best liking.

  After she had to her first sleepe (according to the Schollers

direction) departing softly out of her chamber, she went on towards

the ancient Tower, standing hard by the river of Arno, looking every

way heedfully about hir, least she should be spied by any person.

But perceiving hir selfe to be so secure as she could desire;

putting off all her garments, she hid them in a small brake of bushes:

afterward, holding the Image in hir hand, seven times she bathd hir

body in the river, and then returned with it to the Tower. The

Scholler, who at the nights closing up of day, had hid himselfe

among the willowes and other trees, which grew very thick about the

Tower, saw both hir going and returning from the River, and as she

passed thus naked by him, he plainly perceyved, that the nights

obscurity could not cloud the delicate whitenes of hir body, but

made the Starres themselves to gaze amorously on her, even as if

they were proud to behold her bathing, and (like so many twinkling

Tapers) shewed hir in emulation of another Diana. Now, what

conflicts this sight caused in the mind of our Scholler, one while,

quenching his hatefull spleen towards hir, al coveting to imbrace a

piece of such perfection: another while, thinking it a purchase fit

for one of Cupids soldiers, to seize and surprize hir uppon so faire

an advantage, none being to yeild her rescue: in the fiery triall of

such temptations, I am not able to Judge, or to say, what resistance

flesh and blood could make, being opposed with such a sweet enemy.

  But he well considering what she was, the greatnes of his injury, as

also how, and for whom: he forgot all wanton allurements of Love,

scorning to entertaine a thought of compassion, continuing constant in

his resolution, to let her suffer, as he himselfe had done. So, Helena

being mounted up on the Turret, and turning her face towards the

North; she repeated those idle frivolous words (composed in the nature

of a charme) which shee had received from the Scholler. Afterward,

by soft and stealing steps, hee went into the old Tower, and tooke

away the Ladder, whereby she ascended to the Tarras, staying and

listening, how shee proceeded in her amorous exorcisme.

  Seven times she rehearsed the charme to the Image, looking still

when the two Ladies would appeare in their likenesse, and so long

she held on her imprecations (feeling greater cold, then willinglie

she would have done) that breake of day began to shew it selfe, and

halfe despairing of the Ladies comming, according as the Scholler

bad promised, she said to her selfe: I much misdoubt, that Reniero

hath quitted me with such another peece of night-service, as it was my

lucke to bestow on him: but if he have done it in that respect, hee

was but ill advised in his revenge, because the night wants now

three parts of the length, as then it had: and the cold which he

suffered, was far superior in quality to mine, albeit it is more sharp

now in the morning, then all the time of night it hath bin.

  And, because day-light should not discover her on the Tarrasse,

she went to make her descent downe againe: but finding the Ladder to

be taken away, and thinking how her publike shame was now

inevitable, her heart dismayed, and shee fell downe in a swoune on the

Tarras: yet recovering her senses afterward, her greefe and sorrow ex.

ceeded all capacity of utterance. For, now she became fully perswaded,

that this proceeded from the Schollers malice, repenting for her

unkinde usage towards him, but much more condemning her selfe, for

reposing any trust in him, who stood bound (by good reason) to be

her enemy.

  Continuing long in this extreame affliction, and surveighing all

likely meanes about her, whereby she might descend from the Tarras,

whereof she was wholly disappointed: she began to sighe and weepe

exceedingly, and in this heavy perplexity of spirit, thus shee

complained to her selfe. Miserable and unfortunate Helena, what will

be saide by thy Bretheren, Kindred, Neighbours, and generallie

throughout all Florence, when they shall know, that thou wast founde

heere on this Turret, starke naked? Thine honourable carriage, and

honesty of life, heeretofore free from a thought of suspition, shall

now be branded with detestation; and if thou wouldst cloud this

mishappe of thine, by such lies and excuses, as are not rare amongst

women: yet Reniero that wicked Scholler, who knoweth all thy privy

compacting, will stand as a thousand witnesses against thee, and shame

thee before the whole City, so both thine honor and loved friend are

lost for ever.

  Having thus consulted with her selfe, many desperate motions

entred her minde, to throw her selfe headlong from off the Tarras;

till better thoughts wone possession of her soule. And the Sunne being

risen, shee went to every corner of the Tarras, to espye any Lad

come abroad with his beasts, by whom she might send for her

waitingwoman. About this instant, the Scholler who lay sleeping (all

this while) under a bush, suddenly awaking; saw her looke over the

wall, and she likewise espyed him; whereupon hee said unto her. Good

morrow Madame Helena, What? are the Ladies come yet or no? Helena

bearing his scorning question, and grieving that hee should so

delude her: in teares and lamentations, she intreated him to come

neere the Tower, because she desired to speake with him. Which

courtesie he did not deny her, and she lying groveling upon her

brest on the Tarras, to hide her body that no part thereof might be

seene, but her head; weeping, she spake thus to him.

  Reniero, upon my credit, if I gave thee an ill nights rest, thou

hast well revenged that wrong on me; for, although wee are now in

the moneth of july, I have beene plagued with extremity of colde (in

regard of my nakednesse) even almost frozen to death: beside my

continuall teares and lamenting, that folly perswaded me to beleeve

thy protestations, wherein I account it well-neere miraculous, that

mine eyes should be capable of any sight. And therefore I pray thee,

lot in respect of any love which thou canst pretend to beare me; but

for regard of thine owne selfe, being a Gentleman and a Scholler, that

this punishment which thou hast already inflicted upon me, may suffice

for or my former injuries towards thee, and to hold selfe revenged

fully, as also permit my garments to be brought me, that I may descend

from hence, without taking th it from me, which afterward (although

thou wouldst) thou canst never restore me, I meane mine honour. And

consider with thy selfe, that albeit thou didst not injoy my company

that unhappy night, yet thou hast power to command me at any time

when soever, with making many diversities of amends, for one nights

offence only committed. Content thy selfe then good Reniero, and as

thou art an honest gentleman, say thou art sufficiently revenged on

me, in making me dearely confesse mine owne errour.

  Never exercise thy malice upon a poore weake woman, for the Eagle

disdaineth to pray on the yeelding Dove: and therefore in meere pitty,

and for manhoods sake, be my release from open shame and reproch.

  The Scholler, whose envious spleene was swolne very great, in

remembring such a malicious cruelty exercised on him, beholding to

weepe and make such lamentations; found a fierce conflict in his

thoughts, betweene content and pitty. It did not a little joy and

content him, that the revenge which he so earnestly desired to

compasse, was now by him so effectually inflicted. And yet (in meere

humanity) pitty provoked him, to commisserate the Ladies distressed

condition: but clemency being over-weake to withstand his rigor,

thus he replied. Madam Helena, if mine entreaties (which, to speake

truly, I never knew how to steepe in tears, nor wrap up my words in

sugar Candie, so cuningly as you women know how to do) could have

prevailed, that miserable night, when I was well-neere frozen to death

with cold, and meerly buried with snow in your Court, not having

anie place of rescue or shelter; your complaints would now the more

easily over-rule me. But if your honor in estimation, bee now more

precious to you then heretofore, and it seemeth so offensive to

stand there naked: convert your perswasions and prayers to him, in

whose armes you were that night imbraced, both of your triumphing in

my misery, when poor I, trotted about your Court, with the teeth

quivering in my head, and beating mine armes about my body, finding no

compassion in him, or you. Let him bring thee thy Garments, let him

come helpe thee down with the Ladder, and let him have the care of

thine honour, on whom thou hast bene so prodigall heretofore in

bestowing it, and now hast unwomanly throwne thy selfe in perill,

onely for the maintenance of thine immodest desires.

  Why dost thou not call on him to come helpe thee? To whom doeth it

more belong, then to him? For thou art his and he thine. Why then

shold any other but he help thee in this distresse? Call him (foole as

thou art) and try, if the love he beareth thee, and thy best

understanding joyned with his, can deliver thee out of my sottish

detaining thee. I have not forgot, that when you both made a pastime

of my misery, thou didst demand of him, which seemed greatest in his

opinion, either my sottish simplicity, or the love thou barest him.

I am not now so liberall or courteous, to desire that of thee, which

thou wouldst not grant, if I did request it: No, no, reserve those

night favours for thy amorous friend, if thou dost escape hence

alive to see him againe. As for my selfe, I leave thee freely to his

use and service: because I have sufficiently payde for a womans

falshood, and wisemen take such warning, that they scorne to bee twice

deceived, and by one woman. Proceed on stil in thy flattering

perswasions, terming me to be a Gentleman and a Scholler, thereby to

win such favor from me, that I should think thy villany toward me,

to be already sufficiently punished. No, treacherous Helena, thy

blandishments cannot now hoodwink the eies of my understanding, as

when thou didst out-reach me with thy disloyall promises and

protestations. And let me now tell thee plainely, that all the while I

continued in the Universitie of Paris, I never attained unto so

perfect an understanding of my selfe, as in that one miserable night

thou diddest enstruct mee. But admit, that I were enclined unto a

mercifull and compassionate minde, yet thou art none of them, on whome

milde and gracious mercy should any way declare her effects. For,

the end of pennance among savage beasts, such as thou art, and

likewise of due vengeance, ought to be death: whereas among men, it

should suffice according to thine owne saying. Wherefore, in regard

that I am neither an Eagle, nor thou a Dove, but rather a most

venomous Serpent: I purpose with my utmost hatred, and as an ancient

enemy to all such as thou art, to make my revenge famous on thee.

  I am not ignorant, that whatsoever I have already done unto thee,

cannot properly be termed revenge, but rather chastisement; because

revenge ought alwayes to exceede the offence, which (as yet) I am

farre enough from. For, if I did intend to revenge my wrongs, and

remembred thy monstrous cruelty to me: thy life, if I tooke it from

thee, and an hundred more such as thy selfe, were farre

insufficient, because in killing thee, I should kill but a vile

inhumane beast, yea, one that deserved not the name of a Woman. And,

to speake truely, Art thou any more, or better (setting aside thy

borrowed haire, and painted beauty, which in few yeares will leave

thee wrinkled and deformed) then the basest beggarly Chamber-stuffe

that can bee? Yet thou soughtest the death of a Gentleman and Scholler

as (in scorne) not long since, thou didst terme me: whose life may

hereafter be more beneficiall unto the world, then millions of such as

thou art, to live in the like multiplicity of ages. Therefore, if this

anguish be sensible to thee, learne what it is to mocke men of

apprehension, and (amongst them especially) such as are Schollers:

to prevent thy falling hereafter into the like extremity, if it be thy

good lucke to escape out of this.

  It appeareth to me, that thou art verie desirous to come downe

hither on the ground; the best counsell that I can give thee, is to

leape downe headlong, that by breaking thy necke (if thy fortune be so

faire) thy life and lothsome qualities ending together, I may sit

and smile at thy deserved destruction. I have no other comfort to give

thee, but only to boast my happinesse, in teaching thee the way to

ascend that Tower, and in thy descending downe (even by what means thy

wit can best devise) make a mockery of me, and say thou hast learned

more, then all my Schollership could instruct thee.

  All the while as Reniero uttered these speeches, the miserable

Lady sighed and wept very grievously, the time running on, and the

Sunne ascending higher and higher; but when she heard him silent, thus

she answered. Unkinde and cruell man, if that wretched night was so

greevous to thee, and mine offence appeared so great, as neither my

youth, beautie, teares, and humble intercessions, are able to derive

any mercy from thee; yet let the last consideration moove thee to some

remorse: namely that I reposed new confidence in thee (when I had

little or no reason at all to trust thee) and discovered the

integritie of my soule unto thee, whereby thou didst compasse the

meanes, to punish me thus deservedly for my sinne. For, if I had not

reposed confidence in thee, thou couldst not (in this maner) have

wrought revenge on me, which although thou didst earnestly covet,

yet my rash credulitie was thy onely helpe. Asswage then thine

anger, and graciously pardon me, wherein if thou wilt be so

mercifull to me, and free me from this fatall Tower: I do heere

faithfully promise thee, to forsake my most false and disloyall

friend, electing thee as my Lord and constant Love for ever.

  Moreover, although thou condemnest my beauty greatly, esteeming it

as a trifle, momentary, and of slender continuance; yet, such as it is

(being comparable with any other womans whatsoever) I am not so

ignorant, that were there no other reason to induce liking thereof:

yet men in the vigour of their youth (as I am sure you think your

selfe not aged) do hold it for an especiall delight, ordained by

nature for them to admire and honour. And notwithstanding all thy

cruelty extended to mee, yet I cannot be perswaded, that thou art so

flinty or Ironhearted, as to desire my miserable death, by casting

my selfe headlong downe (like a desperate madde woman) before thy

face, so to destroy that beuty, which (if thy Letters lyed not) was

once so highly pleasing in thine eyes. Take pitty then on mee for

charities sake, because the Sunne beginneth to heate extreamely: and

as over-much colde (that unhappy night) was mine offence, so let not

over-violent warmth be now my utter ruine and death.

  The Scholler, who (onely to delight himselfe) maintained this long

discoursing with her, returned her this answere. Madame, you did not

repose such confidence in me, for any good will or afrection in you

towards me, but in hope of recovering him whom you had lost; wherein

you merit not a jot of favour, but rather the more sharpe and severe

infliction. And whereas you inferre, that your over-rash credulity,

gave the onely meanes to my revenge: Alas! therein you deceive your

selfe; for I have a thousand crochets working continually in my brain,

whereby to entrap a wiser creature then a woman, yet veiled all

under the cunning cloake of love, but sauced with the bitter Wormewood

of hate. So that, had not this hapned as now it doth, of necessity you

must have falne into another: but, as it hath pleased my happy stars

to favour mee therein, none could proove more to your eternall

scandall and disgrace, then this of your owne devising; which I made

choise of, not in regard of any ease to you, but onely to content my

selfe.

  But if all other devises els had failed, my pen was and is my

prevayling Champion, where-with I would have written such and so

many strange matters, concerning you in your very dearest

reputation; that you should have curst the houre of your conception,

and wisht your birth had bin abortive. The powers of the pen are too

many and mighty, wherof such weake wits as have made no experience,

are the lesse able to use any relation. I sweare to you Lady, by my

best hopes, that this revenge which (perhappes) you esteeme great

and dishonourable, is no way compareable to the wounding Lines of a

Penne, which can carracter downe so infinite infamies (yet none but

guilty and true taxations) as will make your owne hands immediate

instruments, to teare the eyes from forth your head, and so bequeath

your after dayes unto perpetuall darkenesse.

  Now, concerning your lost lover, for whose sake you suffer this

unexpected pennance; although your choise hath proved but bad, yet

still continue your affection to him: in regard that I have another

Ladie and Mistresse, of higher and greater desert then you, and to

whome I will continue for ever constant. And whereas you thinke, the

warme beames of the Sunne, will be too hot and scorching for your nice

bodie to endure: remember the extreame cold which you caused mee to

feele, and if you can intermixe some part of that cold with the

present heat, I dare assure you, the Sun (in his highest heate) will

be far more temperate for your feeling.

  The disconsolate Lady perceiving, that the Schollers wordes savoured

of no mercy, but rather as coveting her desperate ending; with the

teares streaming downe her cheekes, thus she replied. Wel Sir,

seeing there is no matter of worth in me, whereby to derive any

compassion from you: yet for that Ladies sake, whom you have elected

worthy to enjoy your love, and so farre excelleth mee in Wisedome;

vouchsafe to pardon mee, and suffer my garments to be brought me,

wherewith to cover my nakednesse, and so to descend downe from this

Tower, if it may stand with your gentle Nature to admit it.

  Now beganne Reniero to laughe very heartily, and perceiving how

swiftly the day ran on in his course, he saide unto her. Beleeve me

Madame Helena, you have so conjured me by mine endeered Ladie and

Mistresse, that I am no longer able to deny you; wherefore, tell me

where your garments are, and I will bring them to you, that you may

come downe from the Turret. She beleeving his promise, tolde him where

she had hid them, and Reniero departing from the Tower, commanded

his servant, not to stirre thence: but to abide still so neere it,

as none might get entrance there till his returning. Which charge

was no sooner given to his man, but hee went to the house of a neere

neighboring friend, where he dined well, and afterward laid him

downe to sleepe.

  In the meane while, Madame Helena remaining still on the Tower,

began to comfort her selfe with a little vaine hope, yet sighing and

weeping incessantly, seating her selfe so well as shee could, where

any small shelter might yeelde the least shade, in expectation of

the Schollers returning: one while weeping, then againe hoping, but

most of all despairing, by his so long tarrying away with her

Garments; so that beeing over-wearied with anguish and long

watching, she fell into a little slumbering. But the Sunne was so

extreamly hot, the houre of noone being already past, that it meerly

parched her delicate body, and burnt her bare head so violently: as

not onely it seared all the flesh it touched; but also cleft and

chinkt it strangely, beside blisters and other painfull scorchings

in the flesh which hindred her sleeping, to help her self (by all

possible means) waking. And the Turret being covered with Lead, gave

the greater addition to her torment; for, as she removed from one

place to another, it yeelded no mitigation to the burning heate, but

parched and wrinkled the flesh extraordinarily, even as when a piece

of parchment is throwne into the fire, and recovered out againe, can

never be extended to his former forme.

  Moreover, she was so grievously payned with the head-ake, as it

seemed to split in a thousand pieces, whereat there needed no great

the Lead of the Turret being so exceedingly hot, that it affoorded not

the least defence against it, or any repose to qualifie the torment:

but drove her still from one place to another, in hope of ease, but

none was there to be found.

  Nor was there any winde at all stirring, whereby to asswage the

Sunnes violent scalding, or keepe away huge swarmes of Waspes,

Hornets, and terrible byting Flyes, which vexed her extreamely,

feeding on those parts of her body, that were rifte and chinkt, like

crannies in a mortered wall, and pained her like so many points of

pricking Needles, labouring still with her hands to beate them away,

but yet they fastned on one place or other, and afflicted her in

grievous manner, causing her to curse her owne life, hir amorous

friend, but (most of all) the Scholler, that promised to bring her

Garments, and as yet returned not. Now began she to gaze upon every

side about her, to espy some labouring Husbandmen in the fields, to

whom she might call or cry out for helpe, not fearing to discover

her desperate condition: but Fortune therein also was adverse to

her, because the heats extreamity, had driven all the village out of

the fields, causing them to feede their Cattle about theyr owne

houses, or in remote and shadie Valleyes: so that shee could see no

other creatures to comfort her, but Swannes swimming in the River of

Arno, and wishing her selfe there a thousand times with them, for to

coole the extreamity of her thirst, which so much the more

encreased, onely by the sight thereof, and utterly disabled of

having any.

  She saw beside in many places about her, goodly Woods, fayre coole

shades, and Country houses here and there dispersed; which added the

greater violence to hir affliction, that her desires (in all these)

could no way be accomplished. What shall I say more concerning this

disastrous Lady? The parching beames of the Sunne above her, the

scalding heat of the Lead beneath her, the Hornets and Flyes everie

way stinging her, had made such an alteration of her beautifull bodie:

that, as it checkt and controlled the precedent nights darkenesse,

it was now so metamorphosed with rednesse, yea, and blood issuing

forth in infinite places, as she seemed (almost) loathsome to looke

on, continuing still in this agonie of torment, quite voyde of all

hope, and rather expecting death, then any other comfort.

  Reniero, when some three houres of the afternoone were overpast,

awaked from sleeping: and remembring Madame Helena, he went to see

in what estate she was; as also to send his servant unto dinner,

because he had fasted all that day. She perceyving his arrivall, being

altogether weake, faint, and wonderously over-wearied, she crept on

her knees to a corner of the Turret, and calling to him, spake in this

manner. Reniero, thy revenge exceedeth al manhoode and respect: For,

if thou wast almost frozen in my Court, thou hast roasted me all day

long on this Tower, yea, meerly broyled my poore naked bodie, beside

starving mee thorough want of Food and drinke. Be now then so

mercifull (for manhoods sake) as to come uppe hither, and inflict that

on me, which mine owne hands are not strong enough to do, I meane

the ending of my loathed and wearisome life, for I desire it beyond

all comfort else, and I shall honour thee in the performance of it. If

thou deny me this gracious favour; at least send me uppe a glasse of

Water, onely to moisten my mouth, which my teares (being all meerly

dried up) are not able to doe, so extreame is the violence of the

Sunnes burning heate.

  Well perceived the Scholler, by the weaknesse of her voyce, and

scorching of her body by the Suns parching beames, that shee was

brought now to great extremity: which sight, as also her humble

intercession, began to touch him with some compassion, nevertheles,

thus he replied. Wicked woman, my hands shal be no means of thy death,

but make use of thine owne, if thou be so desirous to have it: and

as much water shalt thou get of me to asswage thy thirst, as thou

gavest me fire to comfort my freezing, when thou wast in the luxurious

heat of thy immodest desires, and I wel-neere frozen to death with

extremity of cold. Pray that the Evening may raine downe Rosewater

on thee, because that in the River of Arno is not good enough for

thee: for as little pitty doe I take on thee now, as thou didst extend

compassion to me then.

  Miserable Woman that I am, answered Helena; Why did the heavens

bestow beautie on mee, which others have admired and honoured, and yet

(by thee) is utterly despised? More cruell art thou then any savage

Beast; thus to vexe and torment mee in such mercilesse manner. What

greater extreamity couldst thou inflict on me, if I had bin the

destruction of all thy Kindred, and lefte no one man living of thy

race? I am verily perswaded, that more cruelty cannot be used

against a Traitor, who was the subversion of an whole Cittie, then

this tyranny of thine, roasting me thus in the beames of the Sun,

and suffering my body to be devoured with Flies, without so small a

mercie, as to give mee a little coole water, which murtherers are

permitted to have, being condemned by justice, and led to execution:

yea Wine also, if they request it.

  But, seeing thou art so constant in thy pernitious resolve, as

neither thine owne good Nature, nor this lamentable sufferance in

me, are able to alter thee: I will prepare my self for death

patiently, to the end, that Heaven may be mercifull to my soul, and

reward thee justly, according to thy cruelty. Which words being ended,

she withdrew her selfe towards the middest of the Tarras, despairing

of escaping (with life)

  from the heates violence; and not once onely, but infinite times

beside (among her other grievous extreamities) she was ready to dye

with drought, bemoaning incessantly her dolorous condition.

  By this time the day was well neere spent, and night beganne to

hasten on apace: when the Scholler (immagining that he afflicted her

sufficiently) tooke her Garments, and wrapping them up in his mans

Cloake, went thence to the Ladies house, where he found Ancilla the

Waiting-woman sitting at the doore, sad and disconsolate for her

Ladies long absence, to whom thus he spake. How now Ancilla? Where

is thy Lady and Mistris? Alas Sir (quoth she) I know not. I thought

this morning to have found her in her bed, as usually I was wont to

do, and where I left her yesternight at our parting: but there she was

not, nor in any place else of my knowledge, neyther can I imagine what

is become of her, which is to me no meane discomfort.

  But can you (Sir) say any thing of her? Ancilla, said he, I would

thou hadst bin in her company, and at the same place where now she is,

that some punishment for thy fault might have falne uppon thee, as

already it hath done on her. But beleeve it assuredly, that thou shalt

not freely escape from my fingers, till I have justly paide thee for

thy paines, to teach thee to abuse any Gentleman, as thou didst me.

  Having thus spoken, hee called to his servant, saying. Give her

the Garments, and bid her go looke her Lady, if she will. The

Servingman fulfilled his Masters command, and Ancilla having

receyved her Ladies cloaths, knowing them perfectly, and remembring

(withall) what had bin said: she waxed very doubtfull, least they

had slaine her, hardly refraining from exclaiming on them, but that

greefe and heavie weeping overcame her; so that uppon the Schollers

departing, she ranne in all hast with the garments towardes the Tower.

  Upon this fatall and unfortunate day to Madame Helena, it chanced,

that a Clowne or Countrey Peazant belonging to her Farme or Dairy

house, having two of his young Heyfers wandred astray, and he

labouring in diligent search to finde them: within a while after the

Schollers departure, came to seeke them in Woods about the Tower, and,

notwithstanding all his crying and calling for his beasts, yet he

heard the Ladies greevous moanes and lamentations. Wherefore, he cryed

out so lowd as he could, saying: Who is it that mourneth so aloft on

the Tower? Full well she knew the voyce of her peazant, and

therefore called unto him, and sayd in this maner.

  Go (quoth she) I pray thee for my Waiting-woman Ancilla, and bid her

make some meanes to come up hither to me. The Clowne knowing his Lady,

sayde. How now Madame? Who hath carried you up there so high? Your

Woman Ancilla hath sought for you all this day, yet no one could

ever have immagined you to bee there. So looking about him, he

espyed the two sides of the Ladder, which the Scholler had pulled in

sunder; as also the steppes, which he had scattered thereabout;

placing them in due order againe as they should bee, and binding

them fast with Withies and Willowes.

  By this time Ancilla was come thither, who so soone as shee was

entred into the Tower, could not refrain from teares and complaints,

beating her hands each against other, and crying out. Madam, deare

Lady and Mistresse! Alas, Wher are you? So soone as she heard the

tongue of Ancilla, she replyed (so well as she could) saying: Ah my

sweet Woman, I am heere aloft uppon the Tarras; weepe not, neyther

make any noyse, but quickely bring me some of my Garments. When shee

heard her answer in such comfortable maner, she mounted up the Ladder,

which the peazant had made very firme and strong, holding it fast

for her safer ascending; by which meanes she went up on the Tarras.

Beholding her Ladie in so strange a condition, resembling no humane

body, but rather the trunke of a Tree halfe burned, lying flat on

her face, naked, scorched and strangely deformed: shee beganne to

teare the lockes of her owne hayre, raving and raging in as

pittifull manner, as if her Ladie had beene quite dead. Which storming

tempest, Madame Helena soone pacified, entreating her to use

silence, and helpe to put on her garments.

  Having understood by her, that no one knew of her being there, but

such as brought her cloathes, and the poore peazant, attending there

still to do her any service: shee became the better comforted,

entreating them by all meanes, that it might bee concealed from any

further discovery, which was on eyther side, most faithfullie

protested.

  The poore Clowne holpe to beare downe his Lady uppon his backe,

because the Ladder stood not conveniently enough for her descending,

neither were her limbes plyable for her owne use, by reason of their

rifts and smarting. Ancilla following after, and being more respective

of her Lady, then her owne security in descending, missing the step in

the midst of the Ladder, fell downe to the ground, and quite brake her

legge in the fall, the paine whereof was so greevous to her, that

she cried and roared extraordinarily, even like a Lyon in the desert.

  When the Clowne had set his Lady safe on a faire green banke, he

returned to see what the waiting woman ayled, and finding her leg to

be quite broken: he caried her also to the same banke, and there

seated her by her Lady: who perceiving what a mischance had hapned,

and she (from whom she expected her onely best helpe) to bee now in

far greater necessity her selfe: shee lamented exceedingly,

complaining on Fortunes cruel malice toward her, in thus heaping one

misery upon another, and never ceasing to torment her, especially

now in the conclusion of all, and when shee thought all future

perils to be past.

  Now was the Sun upon his setting, when the poore honest country-man,

because darke night should not overtake them, conducted the Lady

home to his owne house: and gaining the assistance of his two brethren

and wife, setting the waiting-woman in a Chaire, thither they

brought her in like manner. And questionles, there wanted no diligence

and comfortable language, to pacifie the Ladyes continuall

lamentations. The good wife, led the Lady into hir own poore

lodging, where (such cates as they had to feede on) lovingly she set

before her: conveying her afterward into her owne bed, and taking such

good order, that Ancilla was carried in the night time to Florence, to

prevent all further ensuing danger, by reason of her legs breaking.

  Madame Helena, to colour this misfortune of her owne: as also the

great mishap of her woman: forged an artificiall and cunning tale,

to give some formall apparance of hir being in the Tower, perswading

the poore simple Country people, that in a straunge accident of

thunder and lightning, and by the illusions of wicked spirits, all

this adventure hapned to her. Then Physitians were sent for; who,

not without much anguish and affliction to the Ladie (by reason of her

fleshes flaying off, with the Medicines and Emplaysters applyed to the

body) was glad to suffer whatsoever - they did, beside falling into a

very dangerous Feaver; out of which she was not recovered in a long

while after, but continued in daily dispayre of her life; beside other

accidents hapning in her time of Physicke, utterly unavoydable in such

extreamities: and hardly had Ancilla her legge cured.

  By this unexpected pennance imposed on Madame Helena, she utterly

forgot her amorous friend; and (from thence forward) carefully kept

her selfe from fond loves allurements, and such scornfull behaviour,

wherein she was most disorderly faulty. And Reniero the Scholler,

understanding that Ancilla had broken her leg, r , which he reputed as

a punishment sufficient for her, held himselfe satisfyed, because

neither the Mistresse nor her Maide, could now make any great boast,

of his nights hard entertainment, and so concealed all matters else.

  Thus a wanton-headed Lady, could finde no other subject to worke her

mocking folly on, but a learned Scholler, of whom shee made no more

respect, then any other ordinary man. Never remembring, that such

men are expert (I cannot say all, but the greater part of them) to

helpe the frenzie of foolish Ladies, that must injoy their loose

desires, by Negromancy, and the Divelles meanes. Let it therefore

(faire Ladies) be my loving admonition to you, to detest all unwomanly

mocking and scorning, but more especiallie to Schollers.