THE NINTH NOVELL

 

       DECLARING WHAT AN HONOURABLE VERTUE COURTESIE IS, IN THEM

                   THAT TRUELY KNOW HOW TO USE THEM

 

  Saladine, the great Soldan of Babylon, in the habite of a

Merchant, was honourably received and welcommed, into the house of

Signior Thorello d'Istria. Who travelling to the Holy Land, prefixed a

certaine time to his Wife, for his returne back to her againe,

wherein, if he failed, it was lawfull for her to take another Husband.

By clouding himselfe in the disguise of a Faulkner, the Soldan tooke

notice of him, and did him many great honours. Afterward, Thorello

falling sicke, by Magicall Art, he was conveighed in one night to

Pavia, when his Wife was to be married on the morrow: where making

himselfe knowne to her, all was disappointed, and shee went home

with him to his owne house.

 

  Adam Philomena having concluded her discourse, and the rare

acknowledgement, which Titus made of his esteemed friend Gisippus,

extolled justly as it deserved by all the Company: the King, reserving

the last office to Dioneus (as it was at the first granted him)

began to speake thus. Without all question to the contrary (worthy

Ladies) nothing can be more truely said, then what Madame Philomena,

hath delivered, concerning Amity, and her complaint in the

conclusion of her Novell, is not without great reason, to see it so

slenderly reverenced and respected (now a dayes) among all men. But if

we had met here in duty onely for correcting the abuses of iniquity,

and the malevolent courses of this preposterous age; I could proceed

further in this just cause of complaint. But because our end aimeth at

matters of other nature, it commeth to my memory to tel you of a

History, which (perhaps) may seeme somewhat long, but altogether

pleasant, concerning a magnificent act of great Saladine: to the

end, that by observing those things which you shall heare in my

Novell, if we cannot (by reason of our manifold imperfections)

intirely compasse the amity of any one; yet (at least) we may take

delight, in stretching our kindnesse (in good deeds) so farre as we

are able, in hope one day after, some worthy reward will ensue

thereon, as thereto justly appertaining.

  Let me tell you then, that (as it is afermed by many) in the time of

the Emperour Frederick, first of that name, the Christians, for the

better recovery of the holy land, resolved to make a generall voyage

over the Seas. Which being understood by Saladine, a very worthy

Prince, and then Soldan of Babylon: he concluded with himselfe, that

he would (in person) goe see, what preparation the Christian

Potentates made for this Warre, that hee might the better provide

for himselfe. Having setled all things orderly in Aegypt for the

busines, and making an outward appearance, as if he purposed a

pilgrimage to Mecha: he set onward on his journey, habited like a

Merchant, attended onely with two of his most Noble and wisest

Baschaes, and three waiting servants.

  When he had visited many Christian Provinces, and was riding

thorow Lombardle, to passe the mountaines; it fortuned, in his

journeying from Millaine to Pavia, and the day being very farre spent,

so that night hastened speedily on him: he met with a Gentleman, named

Signior Thorella d'Istria, but dwelling at Pavia, who with his men,

Hawkes and Hounds, went to a house of his, seated in a singular place,

and on the River of Ticinum. Signior Thorello seeing such men making

towardes him, presently imagined, that they were some

Gentle-strangers, and such hee desired to respect with honor.

  Wherefore, Saladine demanding of one of Thorelloes men, how farre

(as then) it was to Pavia, and whether they might reach thither by

such an houre, as would admit their entrance into the Citty:

Thorello would not suffer his servant to returne the answer, but

replyed thus himselfe. Sir (quoth he) you cannot reach Pavia, but

night will abridge you of any entraunce there. I beseech you then Sir,

answered Saladine, favour us so much (because we are all strangers

in these parts) as to tell us where we may be well lodged. That shal I

Sir, said Thorello, and very gladly too.

  Even at the instant Sir, as we met with you, I had determined in

my mind, to send one of my servants somewhat neere to Pavia, about a

businesse concerning my selfe: he shall go along with you, and conduct

you to a place, where you will be very well entertayned. So,

stepping to him, who was of best discretion amongst his men, he gave

order to him what should bee done, and sent him with them. Himselfe,

making hast by a farre neerer way, caused Supper to be prepared in

worthy manner, and the Tables to be covered in his Garden; and all

things being in good readinesse, he sate downe at his doore, to attend

the comming of his guests. The Servingman, discoursing with the

Gentlemen on divers occasions, guided them by such unusuall

passages, as (before they could discerne it) he brought them to his

Masters house; where so soone as Thorello saw them arrived, he went

forth to meet them, assuring them all of most hearty welcome.

  Saladine, who was a man of accute understanding, did well

perceive, that this Knight Thorello misdoubted his going with him,

if (when he met him) hee should have invited him; and therefore,

because he would not be denied, of entertaining him into his house; he

made choise of this kinde and honourable course, which caused him to

returne this answer. Gentle Sir, if courtesie in one man to another,

do deserve condemning, then may we justly complaine of you, who

meeting us upon the way, which you have shortened by your kindnesse,

and which we are no way able to deserve, wee are constrained to

accept, taking you to bee the mirrour of courtesie. Thorello being a

Knight of ingenious apprehension, and wel languaged, replyed thus.

  Gentlemen; this courtesie (seeing you terme it so) which you receive

of me, in regard of that justly belonging to you, as your faces do

sufficiently informe mee, is matter of very slender account. But

assuredly out of Pavia, you could not have any lodging, deserving to

be termed good. And therefore let it not bee displeasing to you, if

you have a little gone forth of the common rode way, to have your

entertainment somewhat bettered, as many travaylers are easily induced

to do.

  Having thus spoken, all the people of the house shewed themselves,

in serviceable manner to the Gentlemen, taking their horses as they

dismounted, and Thorello himselfe, conducted the three Gentlemen, into

three severall faire Chambers, which in costly maner were prepared for

them, where their boots were pluckt off, faire Napkins with Manchets

lay ready, and delicate Wines to refresh their wearied spirits, much

prety conference being entercoursed, til Supper time invited them

thence.

  Saladine, and they that were with him, spake the Latine tongue

very readily, by which meanes they were the better understoode; and

Thorello seemed (in their judgement) to bee the most gracious,

compleate, and best spoken Gentleman, as ever they met with in all

their journey. It appeared also (on the other side) to Signiour

Thorello, that his guests were men of great merit, and worthy of

much more esteeme, then there he could use towards them: wherefore, it

did highly distast him, that he had no more friends there this night

to keepe them company, or himselfe better provided for their

entertainment, which hee intended (on the morrow) to recompence with

larger amends at dinner.

  Heereupon, having instructed one of his men with what hee

intended, he sent him to Pavia, which was not farre off (and where

he kept no doore shut) to his Wife, named Madam Adialetta; a Woman

singularly wise, and of a Noble spirit, needing little or no

direction, especially when she knew her husbands minde. As they were

walking in the Garden, Thorello desired to understand, of whence,

and what they were? Whereto Saladine thus answered. Sir, wee are

Cyprian Marchants, comming now from Cyprus, and are travalling to

Paris, about affaires of importance. Now trust me Syr, replyed

Thorello, I could heartily wish, that this Countrey of ours would

yeeld such Gentlemen, as your Cyprus affordeth Marchants. So,

falling from one discourse unto another, Supper was served in; and

looke howe best themselves pleased, so they sate at the Table, where

(we need make no doubt) they were respected in honourable order.

  So soone as the Tables were withdrawne, Thorello knowing they

might be weary, brought them againe to their Chambers, where

committing them to their good rest, himselfe went to bed soone

after. The Servant sent to Pavia, delivered the message to his Lady;

who, not like a woman of ordinary disposition, but rather truely

Royall, sent Thorelloes servants into the City, to make preparation

for a Feast indeed, and with lighted Torches (because it was

somewhat late) they invited the very greatest and noblest persons of

the Citie, all the roomes being hanged with the richest Arras, Clothes

and Golde worke, Velvets, Silkes, and all other rich adornments, in

such manner as her husband had commanded, and answerable to her owne

worthy mind, being no way to learne, in what manner to entertaine

strangers.

  On the morrow morning, the Gentlemen arose, and mounting on

horsebacke with Signior Thorello, he called for his Hawkes and Hounds,

brought them to the River, where he shewed two or three faire flights:

but Saladine desiring to know, which was the fayrest Hostery in all

Pavia, Thorello answered. Gentlemen, I wil shew you that my selfe,

in regard I have occasion to ride thither. Which they beleeving,

were the better contented, and rode on directly unto Pavia; arriving

there about nine of the clocke, and thinking he guided them to the

best Inne, he brought them to his owne house; where, above fifty of

the worthiest Citizens, stood ready to welcome the Gentlemen,

imbracing them as they lighted from their Horsses. Which Saladine, and

his associates perceiving, they guessed as it was indeede, and

Saladine sayd. Beleeve me worthy Thorello, this is not answerable to

my demand; you did too much yester night, and much more then we

could desire or deserve: Wherefore, you might wel be the sooner

discharged of us, and let us travaile on our journey.

  Noble Gentlemen, replyed Thorello (for in mine eye you seeme no

lesse) that courtesie which you met with yester-night, I am to

thanke Fortune for, more then you, because you were then straited by

such necessity, as urged your acceptance of my poore Country house.

But now this morning, I shall account my selfe much beholding to you

(as the like will all these worthy Gentlemen here about you) if you do

but answer kindnes with kindnes, and not refuse to take a homely

dinner with them.

  Saladine and his friends, being conquerd with such potent

perswasions, and already dismounted from their horses, saw that all

deniall was meerly in vaine: and therefore thankfully condiscending

(after some few ceremonious complements were over-past) the

Gentlemen conducted them to their Chambers, which were most

sumptuously prepared for them, and having laid aside their riding

garments, being a little re reshed with Cakes and choice Wines; they

descended into the dining Hall, the pompe whereof I am not able to

report.

  When they had washed, and were seated at the Tables, dinner was

served in most magnificent sort; so that if the Emperor himself had

bin there, he could not have bin more sumptuously served. And although

Saladine and his Baschaes were very Noble Lords, and wonted to see

matters of admiration: yet could they do no lesse now, but rather

exceeded in marvaile, considering the qualitie of the Knight, whom

they knew to bee a Citizen, and no Prince or great Lord. Dinner

being ended, and divers familiar conferences passing amongst them:

because it was exceeding hot, the Gentlemen of Pavia (as it pleased

Thorello to appoint) went to repose themselves awhile, and he

keeping company with his three guests, brought them into a goodly

Chamber, where, because he would not faile in the least scruple of

courtesie, or conceale from them the richest jewell which he had; he

sent for his Lady and wife, because (as yet) they had not seene her.

  She was a Lady of extraordinary beauty, tall stature, very

sumptuously attired, and having two sweet Sonnes (resembling Angels)

she came with them waiting before her, and graciously saluted her

guests.

  At her comming, they arose, and having received hir with great

reverence, they seated her in the midst, kindly cherishing the two

Children. After some gracious Language past on eyther side, she

demanded of whence, and what they were, which they answered in the

same kind as they had done before to her husband. Afterward, with a

modest smiling countenance, she sayd. Worthy Gentlemen, let not my

weake Womanish discretion appeare distastable, in desiring to crave

one especiall favour from you, namely, not to refuse or disdaine a

small gift, wherewith I purpose to present you. But considering first,

that women (according to their simple faculty) are able to bestow

but silly gifts: so you would be pleased, to respect more the person

that is the giver, then the quality or quantity of the gift.

  Then causing to be brought (for each of them) two goodly gowns or

Robes (made after the Persian manner) the one lyned thorough with

cloth of Gold, and the other with the costlyest Fur; not after such

fashion as Citizens or Marchants use to weare, but rather beseeming

Lords of greatest account, and three light under-wearing Cassocks or

Mandillions, of Carnatian Sattin, richly Imbroidred with Gold and

Pearles, and lined thorow with White Taffata, presenting these gifts

to him, she sayd. I desire you Gentlemen to receive these meane

trifies, such as you see my Husband weares the like, and these other

beside, considering you are so far from your Wives, having travailed a

long way already, and many miles more yet to overtake; also

Marchants (being excellent men) affect to be comely and handsome in

their habits; although these are of slender value, yet (in

necessity) they may do you service.

  Now was Saladine and his Baschaes halfe astonyed with admiration, at

the magnificent minde of Signiour Thorello, who would not forget the

least part of courtesie towardes them, and greatly doubted (seeing the

beauty and riches of the Garments) least they were discovered by

Thorello. Neverthelesse, one of them thus answered the Lady. Beleeve

me Madame, these are rich guiftes, not lightly either to be given,

rich or receyved: but in regard of your strict imposition, we are

not able to deny them. This being done, with most gracious and

courteous demeanour, she departed from them, leaving her Husband to

keepe them still companie; who furnished their servants also, with

divers worthy necessaries fitting for their journey.

  Afterward, Thorello (by very much importunitie) wonne them to stay

with him all the rest of the day; wherefore, when they had rested

themselves awhile, being attyred in their newly given robes; they rode

on Horsebacke thorow the Citty. When supper time came, they supt in

most honourable and worthy company, beeing afterwards Lodged in most

faire and sumptuous Chambers, and being risen in the morning, in

exchange of their horses (over-wearied with Travaile) they found three

other very richly furnished, and their men also in like manner

provided. Which when Saladine had perceyved, he tooke his Baschaes

aside, and spake in this manner.

  By our greatest Gods, I never met with any man, more compleat in all

noble perfections, more courteous and kinde then Thorello is. If all

the Christian Kings, in the true and heroicall nature of Kings, do

deale as honourably as I see this Knight doeth, the Soldane of Babylon

is not able to endure the comming of one of them, much lesse so

many, as wee see preparing to make head against us. But beholding,

that both refusall and acceptation, was all one in the minde of

Thorello: after much kinde Language had bin intercoursed betweene

them, Saladine (with his Attendants) mounted on horsebacke.

  Signiour Thorello, with a number of his honourable Friends (to the

number of an hundred Horsse) accompanied them a great distance from

the Citie, and although it greeved Saladine exceedingly, to leave

the company of Thorello, so dearely he was affected to him: but

necessity (which controlleth the power of all lawes whatsoever) must

needs divide them: yet requesting his returne agayne that way, if

possibly it might be granted; which Saladine promised but did not

performe. Well Gentlemen (quoth Thorello at parting) I know not what

you are, neither (against your will) do I desire it: but whether you

be Marchants or no remember me in your kindnesse, and so to the

heavenly powers I commend you. Saladine, having taken his leave of all

them that were with Thorello, returned him this answer. Sir, it may

one day hereafter so happen, as we shal let you see some of our

Marchandises, for the better confirmation of your beleefe, and our

profession.

  Thus parted Signior Thorello and his friends, from Saladine and

his company, who verily determined in the heighth of his minde, if

he should be spared with life, and the warre (which he expected)

concluded: to requite Thorello with no lesse courtesie, then hee had

already declared to him; conferring a long while after with his

Baschaes, both of him and his beauteous Lady, not forgetting any of

their courteous actions, but gracing them all with deserved

commendation. But after they had (with very laborious paines) surveyed

most of the Westerne parts, they all tooke Shipping, and returned into

Alexandria: sufficiently informed, what preparation was to be made for

their owne defence. And Signior Thorello being come backe againe to

Pavia, consulted with his privat thoughts (many times after) what

these three travailers should be, but came farre short of knowing

the truth, till (by experience) hee became better informed.

  When the time was come, that the Christians were to make their

passage, and wonderfull great preparations, in all places performed:

Signiour Thorello, notwithstanding the teares and intreaties of his

Wife, determined to be one in so woorthy and honourable a voyage:

and having made his provision ready, nothing wanting but mounting on

Horsebacke, to go where he should take shipping; to his Wife (whom

he most intirely affected) thus hee spake. Madame, I goe as thou seest

in this famous Voyage, as well for mine Honour, as also the benefite

of my soule; all our goodes and possessions, I commit to thy

vertuous care. And because I am not certaine of my returning backe

againe, in regard of a thousand accidents which may happen, in such

a Countrey as I goe unto: I desire onely but one favour of thee,

whatsoever daunger shall befall mee; Namely, when any certaine tydings

shall be brought you of my death; to stay no longer before thy

second marriage, but one yeare, one month, and one day; to begin on

this day of my departing from thee.

  The Lady, who wept exceedingly, thus answered. Alas Sir: I know

not how to carry my selfe, in such extremity of greefe, as now you

leave me; but if my life surmount the fortitude of sorrow, and

whatsoever shall happen to you for certainty, either life or death:

I will live and dye the Wife of Signiour Thorello, and make my

obsequies in his memory onely. so Madame (replyed her Husband) not so;

Be not overrash in promising any thing, albeit I am well assured, that

so much as consisteth in thy strength, I make no question of thy

performance. But consider withall (deare heart) thou art a yong woman,

beautifull, of great parentage, and no way thereto inferior in the

blessings of Fortune.

  Thy Vertues are many, and universally both divulged and knowen, in

which respect, I make no doubt; but divers and sundrie great Lords and

Gentlemen (if but the least rumor of my death be noysed) will make

sulte for thee to thy parents and brethren, from whose violent

solicitings, wouldst thou never so resolutely make resistance, yet

thou canst not be able to defend thy selfe; but whether thou wilt or

no, thou must yeeld to please them; and this is the only reason, why I

would tie thee to this limited time, and not one day or minute longer.

  Adalietta, sweetly hugging him in her armes, and melting her selfe

in kisses, sighes, and teares on his face, said. Well Sir, I will do

so much as I am able, in this your most kinde and loving imposition:

and when I shall bee compelled to the contrary: yet rest thus

constantly assured, that I will not breake this your charge, so much

as in thought. Praying ever heartily to the heavenly powers, that they

will direct your course home againe to me, before your prefixed

date, or else I shall live in continual languishing. In the knitting

up of this woful parting, embracing and kissing either infinit

times, the Lady tooke a Ring from off her finger, and giving it to her

husband, said. If I chaunce to die before I see you againe, remember

me when you looke on this. He receiving the Ring, and bidding all

the rest of his Friends farewell, mounted on horsebacke, and rode away

wel attended.

  Being come unto Geneway, he and his company boorded a Galley, and

(in few dayes after) arrived at Acres, where they joyned themselves

with the Christian Army, wherein there happened a verie dangerous

mortality: During which time of so sharpe visitation (the cause

unknowne whence it proceeded) whether thorough the industrie, or

rather the good Fortune of Saladine, well-neere all the rest of the

Christians (which escaped death) were surprized his prisoner

(without a blow strucken) and sundred and imprisoned in divers

Townes and Citties. Amongest the which number of prisoners, it was

Signior Thorelloes chaunce to be one, and walked in bonds to

Alexandria, where being unknowne, and fearing least he should be

discovered: constrained thereto meerly by necessity, hee shewed

himselfe in the condition of a Faulconer; wherein he was very

excellently experienced, and by which means his profession was made

knowne to Saladine, hee delivered out of prison, and created the

Soldans Faulconer.

  Thorello (whom the Soldane called by no other name, then the

Christian, neyther of them knowing the other) sadly now remembred

his departure from Pavia, devising and practising many times, how he

might escape thence, but could not compasse it by any possible meanes.

Wherefore, certaine Ambassadours beeing sent by the Genewayes, to

redeeme divers Cittizens of theirs, there detained as prisoners, and

being ready to returne home againe: he purposed to write to his

Wife, that he was living, and wold repaire to her so soone as he

could, desiring the still continued rememberance of her limited

time. By close and cunning meanes hee wrote the Letter, earnestly

intreating one of the Ambassadors (who knew him perfectly, but made no

outward apparance thereof) to deale in such sort for him, that the

Letter might be delivered to the handes of the Abbot Di San Pietro

in Ciel d'Oro, who was (indeede) his Unckle.

  While Thorello remayned in this his Faulconers condition, it

fortuned uppon a day, that Saladine, conversing with him about his

Hawkes: Thorello chanced to smile, and used such a kinde of gesture or

motion with his Lippes, which Saladine (when he was in his house at

Pavia) had heedfully observed, and by this note, instantly he

remembred Signior Thorello, and began to eye him very respectively,

perswading himselfe that he was the same man. And therefore falling

from their former kinde of discoursing: Tell me: Christian (quoth

Saladine) what Country-man art thou of the West? Sir, answered

Signiour Thorello, I am by Country a Lombard, borne in a Citty

called Pavia, a poore man, and of as poore condition.

  So soone as Saladine had heard these Words; becomming assured in

that which (but now) he doubted, he saide within himselfe. Now the

Gods have given me time, wherein I may make knowne to this man, how

thankefully I accepted his kinde courtesie, and cannot easily forget

it. Then, without saying any thing else, causing his Guard-robe to

be set open, he tooke him with him thither, and sayde. Christian,

observe well all these Garments, and quicken thy remembrance, in

telling mee truly, whether thou hast seene any of them before now,

or no. Signiour Thorello looked on them all advisedly, and espyed

those two especiall Garments, which his Wife had given one of the

strange Merchants; yet he durst not credit it, or that possibly it

could be the same, neverthelesse he said. Sir, I doe not know any of

them, but true it is, that these two doe resemble two such Robes, as I

was wont to weare my selfe, and these (or the like) were given to

three Merchants, that happened to visite my poore house.

  Now could Saladine containe no longer, but embracing him joyfully in

his armes, he said. You are Signior Thorello d'Istria, and I am one of

those three Merchants to whom your Wife gave these Roabes: and now the

time is come to give you credible intelligence of my Merchandise, as I

promised at my departing from you, for such a time (I told you)

would come at length. Thorello, was both glad, and bashfull

together: glad, that he had entertained such a Guest, and bashfully

ashamed, that his welcome had not exceeded in more bountifull

manner. Thorello, replyed Saladine, seeing the Gods have sent you so

happily to me: account your selfe to be soly Lord here, for I am now

no more then a private man.

  I am not able to expresse their counterchanges of courtesie,

Saladine commanding him to be cloathed in Royall garments, and

brought into the presence of his very greatest Lords, where having

spoken liberally in his due commendation, he commanded them to

honour him as himselfe, if they expected any grace or favour from him,

which every one did immediatly, but (above all the rest) those two

Baschaes, which accompanied Saladine at his house. The greatnesse of

this pompe and glory, so suddenly throwne on Signior Thorello, made

him halfe forget all matters of Lomberdie; and so much the rather,

because he had no doubt at all, but that his letters, were safely come

to the hands of his Uncle.

  Here I am to tell you, that in the Campe or Army of the

Christians, on the day when Saladine made his surprizal, there was a

Provinciall Gentleman dead and buried, who was Signior Thorello de

Dignes, a man of very honourable and great esteeme, in which respect

(Signior Thorello d'Istria, knowne throughout the Army, by his

Nobility and valour) whosoever heard that Signior Thorello was dead:

beleeved it to be Thorello d'Istria, and not he of Dignes, so that

Thorello d'Istriaes unknowne surprizall and thraldome, made it also to

passe for an assured truth.

  Beside, many Italians returning home, and carrying this report for

credible; some were so audaciously presumptuous, as they avouched upon

their oathes, that not onely they saw him dead, but were present at

his buriall likewise. Which rumour comming to the eare of his Wife,

and likewise to his kinred and hers: procured a great and grievous

mourning among them, and all that happened to heare thereof.

  Over-tedious time it would require, to relate at large, the publique

griefe and sorrow, with the continuall lamentations of his Wife, who

(within some few moneths after) became tormented with new marriage

solicitings, before she had halfe sighed for the first: the very

greatest persons of Lomberdie making the motion, being daily

followed and furthered by her owne brothers and friends. Still

(drowned in teares) she returned denyall, till in the end, when no

contradiction could prevaile, to satisfie her parents, and the

importunate pursuers: she was constrained to reveale, the charge

imposed on her by her Husband, which shee had vowed infallibly to

keepe, and till that very time, she would in no wise consent.

  While wooing for a second wedding with Adalietta, proceeded in

this manner at Pavia, it chanced on a day, that Signior Thorello had

espied a man in Alexandria whom he saw with the Geneway

Ambassadours, when they set thence towards Geneway with their Gallies.

And causing him to be sent for, he demaunded of him, the successe of

the voyage, and when the Gallies arrived at Geneway; whereto he

returned him this answere. My Lord, our Gallies made a very fatall

voyage, as it is (already) too well knowne in Creete, where my

dwelling is. For when we drew neere Sicilie, there suddenly arose a

very dangerous North-West-winde, which drove us on the quicke-Sands of

Barbarie, where not any man escaped with life, onely my selfe

excepted, but (in the wracke) two of my brethren perished.

  Signior Thorello, giving credit to the mans words, because they were

most true indeed, and remembring also, that the time limitted to his

Wife, drew neere expiring within very few dayes, and no newes now

possibly to be sent thither of his life, his Wife would

questionlesse be marryed againe: he fell into such a deepe conceited

melancholly, as food and sleepe forsooke him, whereupon, he kept his

bed, setting downe his peremptory resolution for death. When

Saladine (who dearely loved him) heard thereof, he came in all haste

to see him, and having (by many earnest perswasions and entreaties)

understood the cause of his melancholly and sickenesse: he very

severely reproved him, because he could no sooner acquaint him

therewith. Many kind and comfortable speeches, he gave him, with

constant assurance, that (if he were so minded) he would so order

the businesse for him; as he should be at Pavia, by the same time as

he had appointed to his Wife, and revealed to him also the manner how.

  Thorello verily beleeved the Soldanes promise, because he had

often heard the possibility of performance, and others had effected as

much, divers times else-where: whereupon he began to comfort himselfe,

soliciting the Soldan earnestly that it might be accomplished.

Saladine sent for one of his Sorcerers (of whose skill he had formerly

made experience) to take a direct course, how Signior Thorello

should be carryed (in one night) to Pavia, and being in his bed. The

Magitian undertooke to doe it, but, for the Gentlemans more ease, he

must first be possessed with an entraunced dead sleep. Saladine

being thus assured of the deeds full effecting, he came againe to

Thorello, and finding him to be setled for Pavia (if possibly it might

be accomplished by the determined time, or else no other expectation

but death) he said unto him as followeth.

  Signior Thorello, if with true affection you love your Wife, and

misdoubt her marriage to some other man: I protest unto you, by the

supreme powers, that you deserve no reprehension in any manner

whatsoever. For, of all the Ladyes that ever I have seene, she is

the onely woman, whose carriage, vertues, and civile speaking (setting

aside beauty, which is but a fading flowre) deserveth most

graciously to be respected, much more to be affected in the highest

degree. It were to me no meane favour of our Gods, (seeing Fortune

directed your course so happily hither) that for the short or long

time we have to live, we might reigne equally together in these

Kingdomes under my subjection. But if such grace may not be granted

me, yet, seeing it stands mainly upon the perill of your life, to be

at Pavia againe by your own limitted time, it is my chiefest

comfort, that I am therewith acquainted, because I intended to have

you conveighed thither, yea, even into your owne house, in such

honourable order as your vertues doe justly merit, which in regard

it cannot be so conveniently performed, but as I have already informed

you, and as the necessity of the case urgently commandeth; accept it

as it may be best accomplished.

  Great Saladine (answered Thorella) effects (without words) have

already sufficiently warranted your Gracious disposition towards me,

farre beyond any requitall remayning in me; your word onely being

enough for my comfort in this case, either dying or living. But in

regard you have taken such order for my departure hence, I desire to

have it done with all possible expedition, because to morrow is the

very last day, that I am to be absent. Saladine protested that it

should be done, and the same evening in the great Hall of his Pallace,

commanded a rich and costly Bedde to be set up, the mattras formed

after the Alexandrian manner, of Velvet and cloth Gold, the Quilts,

counterpoints and coverings, sumptuously imbroydered with Orient

Pearles and Precious Stones, supposed to be of inestimable value,

and two rarely wrought Pillowes, such as best beseemed so stately a

Bedde, the Curtaines and Vallans every way equall to the other pompe.

  Which being done, he commanded that Thorello (who was

indifferently recovered) should be attyred in one of his owne

sumptuous Saracine Roabes, the very fairest and richest that ever

was seene, and on his head a Majesticall Turbant, after the manner

of his owne wearing, and the houre appearing to be somewhat late, he

with many of his best Baschaes, went to the Chamber where Thorello

was, and sitting downe a while by him, in teares thus he spake.

Signior Thorello, the houre for sundering you and me, is now very

neere, and because I cannot beare you company, in regard of the

businesse you goe about, and which by no meanes will admit it: I am to

take my leave of you in this Chamber, and therefore am purposely

come to doe it. But before I bid you farewell, let me entreat you,

by the love and friendship confirmed betweene us, to be mindfull of

me, and to take such order (your affaires being fully finished in

Lombardie) that I may once more enjoy the sight of you here, for a

mutuall solace and satisfaction of our mindes, which are now divided

by this urgent hast. Till which may be granted, let me want no

visitation of your kind letters, commanding thereby of me,

whatsoever here can possibly be done for you: assuring your selfe,

no man living can command me as you doe.

  Signior Thorello could not forbeare weeping, but being much

hindred therby, answered in few words. That he could not possibly

forget, his Gracious favours and extraordinary benefits used towards

him, but would accomplish whatsoever hee commaunded, according as

heaven did enable him.

  Hereupon, Saladine embracing him, and kissing his forehead, said.

All my Gods goe with you, and guard you from any perill, departing

so out of the Chamber weeping, and his Baschaes (having likewise taken

their leave of Thorello) followed Saladine into the Hall, whereas

the Bedde stood readily prepared? Because it waxed very late, and

the Magitian also there attending for his dispatch: the Phisitian went

with the potion to Thorello, and perswading him, in the way of

friendship, that it was onely to strengthen him after his great

weaknes: he drank it off, being thereby immediately entraunced, and so

presently sleeping, was (by Saladines command,) laid on the

sumptuous and costly Bed, whereon stood an Imperiall Crowne of

infinite value, appearing (by a description engraven on it) that

Saladine sent it to Madame Adalietta, the wife of Thorello. On his

finger also hee put a Ring, wherein was enchased an admirable

Carbuncle, which seemed like a flaming Torche, the value thereof not

to bee estimated. By him likewise hee laid a rich sword, with the

girdle, hangers, and other furniture, such as seldome can be seene the

like. Then hee laid a jewell on the Pillow by him, so sumptuouslie

embelished with Pearles and precious Stones, as might have beseemed

the greatest Monarch in the World to weare. Last of all, on either

side of them, hee set two great Basons of pure Gold, full of double

ducates, many cords of Orient Pearles, Rings, Girdles, and other

costly jewells (over-tedious to bee recounted) and kissing him once

more as hee lay in the bedde, commanded the Magitian to dispatch and

be gone.

  Instantly, the bedde and Thorello in it, in the presence of

Saladine, was invisibly carried thence, and while he sate conferring

with his Baschaes, the bed, Signior Thorello, and all the rich Jewells

about him, was transported and set in the Church of San Pietro in Ciel

d'Ore in Pavia, according to his own request, and soundly sleeping,

being placed directly before the high Altar. Afterward, when the bells

rung to Mattines, the Sexton entring the Church with a light in his

hand (where hee beheld a light of greater splendor) and suddenly

espied the sumptuous bedde there standing: not only was he smitten

into admiration, but hee ranne away also very fearefully. When the

Abbot and the Monkes mette him thus running into the Cloyster, they

became amazed, and demanded the reason why he ranne in such haste,

which the Sexton told them. How? quoth the Abbot, thou art no

childe, or a new-come hither, to be so easilie affrighted in our

holy Church, where Spirits can have no power to walke, God and Saint

Peter (wee hope) are stronger for us then so: wherefore turne backe

with us, and let us see the cause of thy feare.

  Having lighted many Torches, the Abbot and his Monkes entred with

the Sexton into the Church, where they beheld the wonderful riche

bedde, and the Knight lying fast asleepe in it. While they stood all

in amazement, not daring to approach neere the bedde, whereon lay such

costly jewells: it chanced that Signior Thorello awaked, and

breathed forth a vehement sigh. The Monkes and the Abbot seeing him to

stirre, ranne all away in feare, crying aloud, God and S. Peter defend

us.

  By this time Thorello had opened his eyes, and looking round about

him, perceived that hee was in the place of Saladines promise, whereof

hee was not a little joyfull. Wherefore, sitting up in the bedde,

and particularly observing all the things about him: albeit he knew

sufficiently the magnificence of Saladine, yet now it appeared far

greater to him, and imagined more largely thereof, then hee could

doe before. But yet, without any other ceremony, seeing the flight

of the Monkes, hearing their cry, and perceiving the reason; he called

the Abbot by his name, desiring him not to be afraid, for he was his

Nephew Thorello, and no other.

  When the Abbot heard this, hee was ten times worse affrighted then

before, because (by publique fame) hee had beene so many moneths

dead and buried; but receiving (by true arguments) better assurance of

him, and hearing him still call him by his name: blessing himselfe

with the signe of the Crosse, hee went somewhat neerer to the bed,

when Thorello said. My loving Uncle, and religious holy Father, wherof

are you afraid? I am your loving Nephew, newly returned from beyond

the Seas. The Abbot, seeing his beard to be grown long, and his

habit after the Arabian fashion, did yet collect some resemblance of

his former countenance; and being better perswaded of him, tooke him

by the hand, saying:

  Sonne thou art happily returned, yet there is not any man in our

Citie, but doth verily beleeve thee to bee dead, and therefore doe not

much wonder at our feare. Moreover, I dare assure thee, that thy

Wife Adalietta, being conquered by the controuling command, and

threatnings of her kinred (but much against her owne minde) is this

very morning to be married to a new husband, and the marriage feast is

solemnly prepared, in honour of this second nuptialls.

  Thorello arising out of the bedde, gave gracious salutations to

the Abbot and his Monkes, intreating earnestly of them all, that no

word might be spoken of his returne, untill he had compleated an

important businesse. Afterward, having safely secured the bedde, and

all the rich Jewells, he fully acquainted the Abbot with all his

passed fortunes, whereof he was immeasurably joyfull, and having

satisfied him, concerning the new elected husband, Thorello said

unto the Abbot. Unckle, before any rumour of my returne, I would

gladly see my wives behavior at this new briding feast, and although

men of religion are seldome seene at such joviall meetings: yet (for

my sake) doe you so order the matter, that I (as an Arabian

stranger) may be a guest under your protection; wherto the Abbot

very gladly condescended.

  In the morning, he sent to the Bridegroom, and advertised him,

that he (with a stranger newly arrived) intended to dine with him,

which the Gentleman accepted in thankefull manner. And when dinner

time came, Thorello in his strange disguise went with the Abbot to the

Bridegroomes house, where he was lookt on with admiration of all the

guests, but not knowne or suspected by any one; because the Abbot

reported him to be a Sarracine, and sent by the Soldane (in Ambassage)

to the King of France. Thorello was seated at a by-table, but directly

opposite to the new Bride, whom hee much delighted to looke on, and

easily collected by her sad countenance, that shee was scarcely well

pleased with this new nuptialls. She likewise beheld him very often,

not in regard of any knowlege she took of him: for the bushiness of

his beard, strangeness of habit, (but most of all) firm beleefe of his

death, was the maine prevention.

  At such time as Thorello thought it convenient, to approve how farre

he was falne out of her remembrance; he took the ring which she gave

him at his departure, and calling a young Page that waited on none but

the Bride, said to him in Italian: Faire youth, goe to the Bride,

and saluting her from me, tell her, it is a custome observed in my

Country, that when any Stranger (as I am heere) sitteth before a new

married Bride, as now shee is, in signe that hee is welcome to her

feast, she sendeth the same Cup (wherein she drinketh her selfe)

full of the best wine, and when the stranger hath drunke so much as

him pleaseth, the Bride then pledgeth him with all the rest. The

Page delivered the message to the Bride, who, being a woman of

honourable disposition, and reputing him to be a Noble Gentleman, to

testifie that his presence there was very acceptable to her, shee

commanded a faire Cuppe of gold (which stood directlie before her)

to bee neately washed, and when it was filled with excellent Wine,

caused it to bee carried to the stranger, and so it was done.

  Thorello having drunke a heartie draught to the Bride, conveyed

the Ring into the Cuppe, before any person could perceive it, and

having left but small store of Wine in it, covered the Cuppe, and sent

it againe to the Bride, who received it very gracioasly, and to honour

the Stranger in his Countries custome, dranke up the rest of the Wine,

and espying the Ring, shee tooke it forth undescried by any: Knowing

it to be the same Ring which shee gave Signior Thorello at his parting

from her; she fixed her eyes often on it, and as often on him, whom

she thought to be a stranger, the cheerfull bloud mounting up into her

cheeks, and returning againe with remembrance to her heart, that

(howsoever thus disguised) he only was her husband.

  Like one of Bacchus Froes, up furiously she started, and throwing

downe the Table before her, cried out aloud: This is my Lord and

Husband, this truely is my Lord Thorello. So running to the Table

where he sate, without regard of all the riches thereon, down she

threw it likewise, and clasping her armes about his necke, hung so

mainly on him (weeping, sobbing, and kissing him) as she could not

be taken off by any of the company, nor shewed any moderation in

this excesse of passion, till Thorello spake, and entreated her to

be more patient, because this extremity was over-dangerous for her.

Thus was the solemnitic much troubled, but every one there very glad

and joyfull for the recovery of such a famous and worthy Knight, who

intreated them all to vouchsafe him silence, and so related all his

fortunes to them, from the time of his departure, to the instant

houre. Concluding withall, that hee was no way offended with the new

Bridegroome, who upon the so constant report of his death, deserved no

blame in making election of his wife.

  The Bridegroome, albeit his countenance was somewhat cloudie, to see

his hope thus disappointed: yet granted freely, that Adalietto was

Thorello's wife in equitie, and bee could not justly lay any claime to

her. She also resigned the Crown and Rings which she had so lately

received of her new Spouse, and put that on her finger which she found

in the Cup, and that Crowne was set upon her head, in honor sent her

from great Saladine. In which triumphant manner, she left the new

Bridegrooms abiding, and repayred home to Thorello's house, with

such pompe and magnificence as never had the like been seene in

Pavia before, all the Citizens esteeming it as a miracle, that they

had so happily recovered Signior Thorello againe.

  Some part of the Jewells he gave to him, who had beene at cost

with marriage feasting, and some to his the Abbot, beside a bountie

bestowed on Monkes. Then he sent a messenger to Saladine, with Letters

of his whole successe, and confessing himselfe (for ever) his

obliged servant: living many yeeres (after) with his wife Adalietta,

and using greater curtesies to strangers, then ever before he had

done.

  In this manner ended the troubles of Signior Thorello, and the

afflictions of his dearely affected Lady, with due recompence to their

honest and ready courtesies. Many strive (in outward shew) to doe

the like, who although they are sufficiently able, doe performe it

so basely, as i: rather redoundeth to their shame, then honour. And

therefore if no merit ensue thereon, but onely such disgrace as justly

should follow; let them lay the blame upon themselves.