'Tis needless now my famous Blood to name, This Act alone will immortalize my Fame. My King, on gaining Life, return'd my Pow'r, For which I dy'd his Glory to restore.

It was thought for a long Time, that this would prove an inconsolable Loss to Zeokinizul. He seemed to have no Ease, no Satisfaction, but in heaping Gifts and Favours on all Lenertoula's Relations, to manifest how dear she was to him. However, the Marriage of his only Son, to a Daughter of the King of Jerebi, his Relation, the Magnificence and Diversions at the Celebration of the Ceremony, and the Congratulations from all Parts, at last gave a chearful Turn to his Disposition; and he wisely began to think, that the Honours he conferr'd on the Sister of his dear Mistress, besides sixteen thousand Tomans which he gave to her Husband; together with a tender Remembrance, which he vow'd always to retain for her Ashes, was amply fulfilling all that the most tender Passion could require. His Courtiers, who were surprised to see his Heart continue for a Time disengag'd and inaccessible to any new Passion, were in daily Expectation of seeing the Liberty which he had so happily recovered, offered up to some youthful Beauty. But the Court Ladies strove so eagerly for this Prize, that their over Forwardness made him averse to having an Intrigue with any. They were ignorant that Resistance inflames Desire, and he at that Time scorned Enjoyments too easily procured. Kelirieu in the mean Time grew uneasy at his Master's Indifference, as it deprived him of the most substantial Emoluments of his Post. He saw his Favours entirely depended on his being subservient to the King's Pleasures, so that he spared for nothing in order to restore that Employment which he had executed so much to his Master's Satisfaction, and his own Advantage. The Nuptials of the young Prince opened a Way to it. Nothing can equal the Joy, Magnificence, and Splendour, which appeared on that Occasion. The City of Kofir distinguished itself above all others in the Kingdom; for as it has not its equal for Largeness and Riches, so it surpassed them all in the Eclat of its Zeal and Affection for the Royal Family. In twelve of the most remarkable Parts of the City, there were large and superb Saloons, where all without Distinction, were admitted to dance. There was a Profusion of Refreshments of all Kinds. The best Musicians had Orders to attend. The Sound of such an infinite Number of Instruments, accompanied with harmonious Voices, added to the Murmurs of the Fountains of Wine which were playing every where, inspired such a rapturous Gaiety to numberless Crouds of People, that no Stranger, however, acquainted with the Affairs of this Kingdom, could, at that Time of excessive Mirth, have imagined, that it had for many Years been involved in a bloody and expensive War.

This Season of universal Joy, Love chose to captivate again Zeokinizul, after such an Interval of boasted Liberty. The chief Inhabitants of Kofir, who are a distinct Body from the Nobility, the Magistracy, and the Citizens, had decorated in the most superb Manner the Sessions House for a Ball, to which they invited the King and royal Pair. Every one was admitted in their Mask Habits, to give the Citizens an Opportunity of shewing their Wives the Magnificence, Gallantries, and Diversions of the Court, which at other Times is out of their Power. Accordingly Zeokinizul, attended by all his Courtiers, came to this Ball, in Habits as strange as they were elegant. The Sight of such a beautiful Assembly, struck him with a delightful Surprise. Here was no painted Allurements, no artificial Charms, such as he was daily conversant with in his Palace. All here was pure Nature, which seem'd to have chosen this Day to present him with a Sight of her most beautiful Productions. The Beauty, the Air, the Motion, and Youth of these lovely Objects was so enchanting, that they looked like the heavenly Houris. Zeokinizul was enchanted at the Sight of such a brilliant Assembly, his Eyes wandered from Beauty to Beauty, till they seemed at once to fix on a young Lady of a distinguished Appearance. She was in the Habit of an Amazon, with her Bow and Quiver hanging at her Shoulders. Her flaxen Hair, which shone with Diamonds, floated in Ringlets, and her charming Breast half naked, ravish'd the Sight. "Lovely Huntress," said the Monarch, "unhappy those whom your Arrows pierce, their Wounds are Mortal."—— This Speech gave the Charmer a fair Field for returning such an Answer as might inflame Zeokinizul; but whether she did not dream of such a Conquest, or Presence of Mind failed her, she ran and hid herself among the Maskers. This Disappointment was in some Measure relieved by a Company of twenty young Persons, who began a Dance, which was much in Vogue at that Time, but first invented in the King of Alniob's Country. They perform'd it so gracefully, that he stood like a Man deprived of his Senses. The Charms of each of these beautiful Dancers, threw him into his first Hesitation, which would soon have been ended, had any one of them uncovered her Face. It is past all Doubt, that the Heart of Zeokinizul, which longed for an Object, would have received the Impression with Transport. He went to one of the Ends of the Saloon, where Women of an ordinary Rank were seated in a Kind of Amphitheatre. Their Dress was in nothing inferior to those of a higher Rank; and besides, they had those fresh healthful Countenances, which being the Result of Temperance, and a plain Way of living, was not to be found among the Quality. Zeokinizul stood viewing them, but his Hour was come. Love waited for him under a Mask, and she who wore it was now going to let this mischievous Deity fly into Zeokinizul's Heart. She was a young Woman, of a brown Complexion, lately married to a freedman, who having deserv'd his Master's Favour by nocturnal Services, had, together with his Liberty, obtained a Post among those who robb'd the Prince, and plunder'd the People. They are called Omeriserufs, or Rogues of the second Class. She, whom Love had already appointed for Favourite, under Pretence of pulling something out of her Pocket, dropt her Handkerchief, and as it is said, purposely. Zeokinizul hastily took it up; and, as he could not reach her Seat, he toss'd it to her in the most polite Manner. A confused Murmur immediately spread thro' the Saloon, with these Words, The Handkerchief is thrown. The King was too much taken up with viewing the Person to whom he had been so complaisant, to take any Notice of such Whisperings. The Charms she display'd in taking off her Mask, and her genteel Manner of her thanking him for the Honour, fill'd him with such passionate Love, that he even there gave her some Intimations how much he was taken with her Beauty. After this Declaration, he soon left the Ball, for having received such a Wound, he wanted to be in private with his Confident, in order to consult about his new Love. Kelirieu had already prevented his Master's Orders, for as he narrowly watched him, he perceived which of the Company had captivated him, and immediately informed himself of her Rank and Condition.

Zeokinizul was transported with Joy at Kelirieu's Report of his Enquiries. He made himself sure, that the Husband of this young Person, being one of those Set of Men, who Mind nothing but Riches, would not only resign his conjugal Rights, but would even be brought to sollicit his Spouse to resign herself up to the King's Embraces, and herein he was not mistaken. But the Difficulty was to induce the Seller's Wife to be a Party in such a scandalous Contract; for tho' she was of low Extraction, she had an Elevation of Mind, a Purity of Virtue, which would have done Honour to the highest. She could not indeed help being inwardly pleased that she had tried her Charms with such Success upon her Sovereign, and the dazzling Idea of beholding Zeokinizul laying at her Feet, all his Greatness and Power, her Husband made a Bassa of the second Rank, her Name exchanged for one of the most illustrious, were Circumstances which the natural Desires in Women of shining even in the smallest Matters, would not allow her to be insensible; yet this Sensibility did not greatly hasten the Lover's Happiness; for, as her Duty united her to a Husband, from whom her Inclinations alienated her, she was for distinguishing herself from all that had gone before her, and reducing the Monarch to go through the entire Play of Love. But such a formal Method was insupportable to him, for being used to conquer upon the very first Appearance of his Desire, his Heart was for some Time distracted with strong Conflicts between Love and Resentment, without a decisive Victory on either Side. Sometimes he looked upon the Resistance of his new Mistress, as an insolent Affront to Majesty; at other Times this same Resistance inflamed him the more, and he pleased himself with the Thoughts of subduing that obstinate Virtue which she affected. All Kelirieu's Artifices were at an End, and when he was passionately urg'd by the King, he was at a Loss for any farther Expedient. However, in such a critical Juncture, he determined to make one last Effort, in order to bring the beautiful Vorompdap to his Lure, and if he fail'd, to engage Zeokinizul to forget her in the Arms of another, who knew the true Value of a Monarch's Affections.

Being persuaded that every Woman who has once listened to a Lover, cannot bear the Thoughts of losing him, but makes Use of every Art in order to fix his Constancy, he waited upon her in Person, and said, with an Air of Concern, At last, charming Kismare, your Rigour has disgusted the Sultan, so as to make him give over his Addresses. Weary of the Delays and Obstacles you was constantly raising against his Passion, he has offered it to another, notwithstanding all my Endeavours to secure him, by the highest Praises of your Charms, and making your very Resistance, a Motive for his farther Pursuits. A Person, not indeed of your perfect Beauty, but of a more indulgent Temper, captivates this Monarch, and I apprehend, that her obliging and artful Behaviour to her Lover, will for ever deprive you of a Heart which you might have kept at your Devotion. Kelirieu, whilst he was speaking, did not fail to observe the young Vorompdap's Countenance, and had the Pleasure of discerning the Vexation which she strove in vain to conceal. She was some Time without returning an Answer, but after composing herself, and putting a good Air upon the Confusion which the Thoughts of a Rival had excited, I could never have imagined, said she, with an affected Indifference, which, however, could not deceive the artful Kelirieu, No, I never could have imagined, that after so many Marks and Protestations of a sincere Affection, Zeokinizul, could have deceived me in such a Manner. However, I am free from the Reproaches of a criminal Uneasiness to gratify his Desires. Charming Kismare, replied Kelirieu, had you shewed the Compliance which is due to a Monarch's Love, I presume to swear by his Head, that he would never have proved inconstant. But no Lover, and especially a King, will ever be satisfied with an ideal Love. Kindness cherishes the Flame, but Unkindness quenches it. But if you have still any Value for Zeokinizul's Heart, you still may avert the Blow which seems to trouble you. I, replied she, smartly, I, troubled at the King's Alteration! very far from it. On the contrary, I bless interposing Heaven, that it happened before Gratitude had prevail'd upon me to make him a Sacrifice of my Person, and, what is still dearer, my Virtue. Alas! added she, sheding some Tears, which flowed in Spite of her, that fatal Instant was drawing near. If it be so, replied Kelirieu, I pity you for having undesignedly lost an Enjoyment so necessary to your own Repose. For, added he, softly, I can discover through all your Affectations, that you really love the King. Your Heart is wounded, and only with-held by airy and unseasonable Scruples. Well, yes, answered she, I do love him. I do not endeavour to conceal it from you. Good God! what Woman in my Place could forbear. But, how can I commit such a publick Adultery. A publick Adultery, replied Kelirieu, with a seeming Amazement, what Blockhead has put such Fancies into your Head. But this Crime so justly condemned both by divine and human Laws, consists in the Injury done to a Man, whose Wife against his Will, or without his Knowledge, admits a Gallant to her Embraces? But, lovely Kismare, how different is your Case! Will not your Husband quit all Pretentions to your Person? Has he not releas'd you from the Vow of being only his? Since his Consent could unite you to him, shall his positive Order be of less Validity to separate you from him, and unite you to another; and that upon such an important Occasion, when Riches, Titles, and Power are to reward his Cession, and your Acquiescence? Believe me, charming Vorompdap, our Imans have adapted our Religion to their own Views and Passions, without Regard to that genuine and perfect Model, the Will of God. The Vow of Celibacy, upon which they value themselves, as renouncing Marriage, would be an insupportable Yoke to them, it would be soon shaken of, were it not for their Hopes, which indeed are too often verified, of taking Advantage of the Misunderstandings betwixt the Husband and Wife, whose Bands they are taught to believe indissoluble. It is on this Account, that they are constantly magnifying Conjugal Duties, and lay so much Stress on their punctual Observation. Consider only what is done in other Nations, no less wise and religious than ourselves. Divorces among them are permitted, as frequently essential to the well being of Society. That sacred Book the Liegnelau, cannot be supposed to contradict and overthrow the Bileb, of which it is in a great Measure the Accomplishment, and Suesi whom you worship, being the Messenger of the great God, would not offer to abrogate his Institutions. Thus the Point is clear, and now look upon yourself as a Woman who is about forming a second Contract, being legally, religiously, and honourably discharged from the former. Zeokinizul is equally at Liberty, for the State and Temper of the Queen invalidate their Marriage. So, that only a few Formalities are wanting for your Union with the King, and you know, Formalities among the more understanding Part of the World, are often dispensed with, as tiresome rather than necessary. The Consent of both Parties has always been the only Point insisted on as essential.

These Proofs, which in the Mouth of a Mollak, would have been laugh'd at, produced the designed Effect from Kelirieu. The young Kismare was shaken, but not overthrown by them; she still insisted against plunging herself into such shocking Scandal. This seemed a very slender Objection to Kelirieu, who immediately replyed to it. Consider, says he, the Kams of Meani and Tesoulou, do they bear any Marks of their Mother's Scandal? Was a great Monarch's Love accounted a Disgrace to a beautiful Lady? If you was acquainted with the first Ages of our Monarchy, you would be satisfied, that they never made any Difference between the Children of Love, and those born in lawful Marriage, as the Imans are pleased to call it. A King at your Feet, Courtiers waiting respectfully on your Orders, a Nation's Treasure at your Disposal, can there be Contempt and Scandal amid such Advantages? Do not alarm your Mind with Monsters of your own forming, only for the Sake of opposing them. Consent to make Zeokinizul happy, and I will lay him at your Feet, more deeply in Love than ever. These Representations made a strong Impression upon the young Favourite, whom the Eloquence of her own Heart had already half convinced. She still stood upon some Punctilio's; but when Kelirieu, which was his last Resource, intimated to her the Danger which might accrue to her Husband from her Obstinacy, this drew from her an absolute Consent. This last Circumstance was certainly the best adapted to fix her; for the new Kismare, like all the rest of his Fraternity, was making the most of his Time in the Management of the Finances, and relying on his Spouse's Favour, he was above taking proper Precautions to conceal or palliate his Imbezzlements. Kelirieu took Care to fill Vorompdap with Apprehensions, that Zeokinizul would infallibly call him to an Account, the most favourable Consequence whereof, would be a Confiscation of all his Substance. It was then high Time to come to a Resolution. Thus Kelirieu happily completed his Negotiation. And having appointed the Time and Place for the first Interview, he hastened, flushed with Joy, to congratulate his Master on this Victory, which was the more delightful, as it had been attended with such a Train of Difficulties.

In the mean Time this new Intrigue, no more than the former, could not diminish Zeokinizul's strict Attention to the several Exigencies of the State. His wise Orders had been so exactly executed throughout his Empire, that his Armies were fit for Action even before the Spring. He headed in Person the most considerable, which was destined for the Conquest of the Bapasis, being still commanded by the brave Vameric, whose prudent Conduct towards the End of the last Campaign had been admired by his very Enemies. The Favourite followed the King as Lenertoula had done, whom she certainly equalled both in Love and Honour. The Campaign was opened with the Siege of a Town which the great Zeokitarezul had fortified at a prodigious Expence, which, besides a strong regular Wall and Outworks, had a Citadel which was accounted by the Connoisseurs, a Master-piece of Fortification. It must have been even an unsurmountable Barrier to the Kofirans, in case they reduced the City. With this View their Attacks were carried on with all imaginary Vigour. On the other Hand, this Place being as it were the Key of the Country, the Keeping of it was of such Importance to the Enemies of Zeokinizul, that they resolv'd to hazard every Thing in order to its Relief. The King of Alniob, the Provinces Junet, and the Queen of Ghinoer, Sovereign of the Bapasis, joined all their Forces, of which the chief Command was conferr'd on the Kam of Lundamberk, youngest Son to the King of Alniob, a Prince of a martial Disposition, and of the greatest Bravery. His Ardour for Glory made him long to encounter the King of the Kofirans, and his only Son, a young Prince of the greatest Expectations, who could forsake the Embraces of a youthful Bride, to attend his Father, and learn the Art of War under Vameric, in the midst of Fatigues and Dangers. The Impetuosity of the Kam of Lundamberk, would not allow him to conform to the wise Counsels of the experienced Generals of his Army, who were for delaying the Battle 'till he had got the Advantage of the Ground, as he was inferiour to them in Numbers. He would not be ruled by their Representations, but, led on by his evil Genius, he came and offered Battle to Zeokinizul, whose Forces were already come out of their Lines, and drawn up in order to receive him.

As these Sheets bear the Title of the Amours of Zeokinizul, I may perhaps be censured for giving a Detail of a Battle which seems quite foreign to this Work; but as it occasioned several Vexations to the Favourite, and having been omitted by every other Writer, I believe the Reader will not be displeased at my relating such Particulars as have come to my Knowledge.

There was great Fault found with Vameric's Dispositions. It was reported, that he was so full of the Victory, that he took not the least Care to secure a Retreat. Behind his Lines was a large River call'd the Tueska, over which he had laid but one Bridge, which, in Case of a Defeat, must infallibly have broken down with the Weight of the flying Troops; the Consequence of which must have been their total Destruction. All this is a known and undeniable Truth. But Vameric was acquainted with the Spirit of the Nation which he commanded. He knew that they would not fly before all the Forces in the World, when they were fighting in their King's Presence. Then, what Occasion was there for Bridges to favour a Retreat, when every single Man was resolv'd to die, or conquer? Besides in one Night's Time he had cast up three Trenches, of which the two first were sufficient to defend them against the first Attack of the Enemy, which is always the most violent. The third would be an impenetrable Defence against their weak and broken Forces. Another considerable Advantage was, the dividing the Army into small Bodies, which must extremely harass the Enemy, as they must be under a Necessity of attacking but one at a Time. Whatever Confidence Zeokinizul reposed in Vameric, he would share both in the Command and Danger. This hazardous Circumstance threw the Favourite into inexpressible Agonies. But neither her Tears nor her Intreaties, so prevalent at all other Times, were unable to restrain the resolute Monarch. He and his Son were present during the whole Action, and in so much Danger, that several were killed near them. At last, Victory declared itself in his Favour, and the young Prince of Alniob, tho' he exerted the utmost Courage and was seconded with an intrepid Valour, by his Soldiers, who loved him entirely, was obliged to retreat. But tho' this young Lion was defeated, he still struck his Enemies with Terror, for after such an Experience of his Valour, they apprehended that he would next Day renew the Action, which he certainly would have done, had it not been for the Opposition of his Generals.

Zeokinizul, after the Victory, applied himself to shew the Conquered how highly he esteemed their Courage. It was ordered, that the same Care should be taken of their wounded, as of his own Soldiers. The imprudent and scandalous Report of some barbarous Orders issued by the Prince of Alniob, in Case of his Success, made not the least Impression on this magnanimous King, and all Africa joined in owning that the Kam of Lundamberk and his Allies, could not have a more worthy Conqueror than Zeokinizul. The Congratulations of his dear Kismare were still wanting, to complete the Joy and Honours of this Victory. He hastened, transported with Love, to lay his Laurels at her Feet, and tell her that he was animated by her charming Idea, in the midst of all the Horrors of the Battle. Here was a fresh and very worthy Motive to increase her Tenderness towards him. But, who can know a Woman? This Instant was to be the Period of it, or at least to put it to a severe Trial.

A young Prisoner, one of the most illustrious of the Nobility of Alniob, having desired Admittance to Zeokinizul, was introduced to him in his Tent, where he was sitting with the Favourite. She was struck at the Sight of him, as indeed there never was any Man fitter to make a Woman unfaithful, and justify her Infidelity. His Mein and Air spoke the Hero, and his Address to the Monarch declared, that his Sentiments were answerable. "Sire, said he, all our Efforts have not hindered Victory from declaring itself for you. Tho' I can no longer continue fighting with my brave Fellow-Soldiers, I could wish not to remain among mine Enemies. Your Highness is no Stranger to Love, and it is that which calls me back to my own Country. Be pleased therefore, to grant me Permission to return, which will not a little augment your Glory, that I shall there appear in Chains instead of those Trophies which I hop'd to have adorn'd my Return." The majestic Air with which this young Warriour delivered himself, moved Zeokinizul, who immediately answered, "You are at full Liberty to depart, and may Love do you more Justice than Fortune." This Generosity of Zeokinizul, was planting a Dagger in the Favourite's Heart, who had already conceived too great a Passion for the Prisoner, to consent so readily to his Departure. Her Passion hindered her from reflecting on the Consequences which might flow from it, and turning towards the Monarch, she said, "Sire, let not your extreme Generosity betray your Interest. When this young Warriour is again among his Countrymen, he may engage them to come and attack you a second Time. He has seen"—— "Be it so, Madam," interrupted Zeokinizul, "I can never have too many Opportunities of making Heroes." She blush'd at this Answer, and Kelirieu, who perceived it, readily guessing that the Departure of this young Prisoner was not agreeable to her Inclinations, laid hold of the Opportunity of Zeokinizul's going out to give some Orders, of offering her his Service. "Madam, said he, if I am not mistaken, I apprehend this young Prisoner has renewed in your Mind some painful Idea; be pleased to disclose the Secret to me, you shall find I will prove a faithful Servant, devoted to all your Views and Inclinations. Is it your Pleasure that this Prisoner should go or Stay? I will find a Method of making him consent to either, as you shall direct." "Ah, let him go replied she, my dear Kelirieu, let him go, his Presence is so dangerous, that any longer Stay would, I fear, make me become ungrateful and faithless to my generous Prince. How charming he is! did you ever before see so graceful a Person? How serene and noble is his Deportment, in the midst of Misfortunes! However, possibly as a Prisoner, he may stand in need of Money, go and offer him these two hundred Pieces of Gold, that he may return to his Country in a Manner suitable to his Rank and Merit, and bring me back an Account in what Manner he received them."

Kelirieu was of such a restless Vivacity, that he could not be contented without Intrigues, which made him eagerly apply himself to forming another. Having found out the fortunate Prisoner, he put the Purse into his Hands with these Words. "Virtue, my Lord, is equally cherished by both Sexes among us, and as a Proof of it, here are two hundred Pieces of Gold, which you are desired to accept of from a very beautiful Lady." "I should be unworthy the least of her Thoughts, replied the Prisoner, were I to refuse her Favour, which this Juncture has render'd necessary. If her Name be not a Secret, I would beg the Favour of you, my Lord, to introduce me, that I might pay my Acknowledgements to this generous Lady." "She would, perhaps ask you for something more, replied Kelirieu." "Ah, returned the Stranger, that is not in my Power to grant. As I have not seen her, I can, without the least Affront to her Beauty, preserve my Heart for the present dear Possessour of it. Be pleased then, my Lord, to tell her, that I depart full of the warmest Gratitude; and, since I am so fortunate as to have the illustrious Kam of Kelirieu in my Interest, I beg him to be assured, that upon my Return into my Country, as it is my highest Duty, so it shall be my first Care, to make suitable Returns for his Generosity to a Stranger, whom his polite Behaviour entirely frees from the Meanness of receiving a Favour, which he would have refused from any other Hand." Kelirieu, perceiving he entirely mistook his Intentions, did not think proper to explain himself, and after taking his Leave, he returned to make a Report to the Favourite of his unlucky Commission. She was piqued at his Refusal, but making a Virtue of Necessity, she endeavoured to efface the sudden Impression which he had made upon her Heart. Fruitless Endeavours, his Idea was always present to her Imagination. Neither Gratitude to the King, Diversions, nor Resentment, could remove it, 'till by a most fortunate Accident, this haughty Rebel became her Admirer, which soon terminated in the Gratification of her Desires. But as the History of this Amour has no necessary Connection with that which I am writing, I shall leave the several Incidents with which it was attended, to be taken Notice of by some other Writer, only observing, that this young Alniobian returning some Years after, into the Country of the Kofirans, it was his Fortune to be united for ever to his generous Benefactress, whom the Death of her Husband, and Zeokinizul's Indifference, left at her own Disposal. This Prince perceived some Alterations in the Favourite, which were at first excused, under Pretence of some feign'd Indispositions, and the Monarch was so easy as to take her Word without any farther Examination into the Truth of her Excuses.

At the End of the Campaign, Zeokinizul return'd to his Palace, to exchange the Fatigues of War, for the Embraces of Love, and make Preparations for new Conquests, if his Enemies should reject the Peace which he had offered them, on such equitable Conditions as contained nothing of the Haughtiness of a Conqueror. The King's Presence brought back to the Court all the Pleasures and Diversions, of which there had been no Appearance during his Expedition. There was nothing but Balls, Feasts, and magnificent Parties of Pleasure. His Fondness would not allow him at any Time to be long absent from his Favourite. He endeavoured by every Token of Affection to convince her that she had found the Means to fix his Heart unalterably, and this might have been really the Case, had he been taken up continually with Affairs of the War, so as to have had but a small Portion of Time for his Pleasures. But this not being the Season for Military Operations allowed him too much Time for Indulgence, and the Monarch's Heart was not to be fixed by any single Passion. The beautiful Vorompdap exerted herself to the utmost, in order to prolong the Continuance of her Reign; but this was the very Occasion of her Overthrow.

The Daughter of one of the first Noblemen of the Kingdom appear'd at Court. This angelic Creature had spent the first Years of her Youth in a Mosque of holy Women, who, to make themselves amends for the Vow they have taken to renounce the World, employ themselves in breeding up young Ladies according to its current Maxims, and most fashionable Practices. There was no beholding her youthful Charms, tho' not yet arrived at their full Perfection, without Admiration. A Bassa of the first Rank, thought her entirely deserving of his Homage. Accordingly he paid his Addresses to her, and in a short Time was so happy as to gain her Consent. Some weighty Motives however, oblig'd them to keep their Intimacy private; but Love cannot be conceal'd, Discretion and Tenderness being seldom found together. Zeokinizul perceiv'd that the young Bassa, who till then had talked loudly against Love, was become more pensive than usual. He himself had too much Experience not to guess the Source of this Alteration. He mildly banter'd him upon it, and diverted himself with raillying him for a Sensibility, which he often had boasted he would ever resist. There was no Way for the young Bassa to make the King give over these stinging Ironies, but by discovering his Passion. The Excess of his Love made him unhappily Eloquent in the Description of its charming Object. Zeokinizul, was inflamed by such a beautiful Description; and, having designedly provoked him, by saying, that as the Picture was drawn by the Pencil of a Lover, he suspected the Likeness; the imprudent Bassa forgot to whom he was speaking, and how reserv'd he ought to have been with a Prince of such amorous Disposition, he offered to justify all he had said of his Mistress. This was the very Thing Zeokinizul wanted. The Offer was agreed to, and this enchanting Object brought into his Presence. The King no sooner saw her, but he loved her. The Idea of a Rival so dearly loved, did not occasion any Despair in the King of being happy; and, as a King makes Love in a different Manner from a Subject, instead of making his Mistress forget the young Bassa by Presents, and other Endearments, he made Use of his Prerogative, by sending him away on an honourable Pretence. He also took sure Measures to deprive him of the melancholy Comfort of taking his Leave of her, and to prevent those two Lovers from maintaining their mutual Affections by a Correspondence of Letters, which would confirm Nasica (for so was this adorable Lady called) in rejecting his Passion. At hearing of the Bassa's Departure, her Heart immediately became a Prey to Grief, Jealousy and Resentment; and imputing his Conduct to his Indifference, she resolv'd to banish him from her Remembrance, or if this was impossible, yet, at least, she would appear to have done so. Zeokinizul, was soon informed of the disorder'd State of her Mind. Few Confidents are to be found, who can withstand the Solicitations of a King. She whom Nasica had chosen, was one of the weakest. She discover'd to the King, the Rise, Increase, and several other Circumstances of her Mistress's Love for the young Bassa, and gave him a full Account of the Grief and Resentment she had shewn at his unexpected Departure.

In order to give these Emotions Time to arrive at such a Height, as to subdue Love, Zeokinizul very carefully avoided speaking one Word to Nasica of his Passion for her. However, as often as he happen'd to see her, he never fail'd passing a Compliment upon her Beauty, but it was always with such Calmness and Moderation, as was so far from being thought to proceed from Love, that it was only accounted a proper Complaisance in the Prince, who was willing to do Justice to such a celebrated Beauty. The young Bassa, being ignorant that his Letters were intercepted, had wrote several in so soft and persuasive a Style, as to alarm Zeokinizul, and make him redouble his Precautions to prevent any of them from falling into the Hands of those to whom they were directed. But the Confidence he had of his Mistress's Affection, not allowing him to suspect that Nasica could prove faithless, began to think that some third Person interposed in their Correspondence. After having long consider'd who could be this jealous Rival who thus deprived him of his only remaining Comfort, his Suspicions fell upon his Master. When he called to Mind the Suddenness of his being sent away in an Affair which required no such Haste, it was but too evident, and his Doubts increased to a Certainty. His whole Dangers and Misfortunes immediately presented themselves to his View. He was not ignorant that it was an unpardonable Crime to be a Rival to his Monarch, had his Love been unsuccessful; what then could be expected, when his Happiness was the sole Obstacle to his Sovereign's Love? However, not valuing his Disgrace, provided his Mistress continued faithful, he wrote her a Letter in the most moving Terms, representing to her, that a Crown ought to come in no Competition with Love; that it was the Heart only which ought to engage a Lady, who has a true Sense of that delicate Passion; that upon this Principle he yielded the Preference to Zeokinizul, if his Love was more pure, more respectful, or more perfect than his own. This Letter was committed to an old Servant, in whom he placed the greatest Confidence; but the Misfortune was, that this Slave's good Qualities were mixed with several Vices, and particularly Drunkenness. Being come to a Place where he was to change his Horse, he resolved to rest himself a while, and empty some Bottles. This was the very Place where the Spies of his Master's Rival used to intercept his Letters. They knew by his Habit, that he belonged to the young Bassa, which was enough to make them mistrust him. They went up to him, and after some Excuses for their Freedom, invited him to drink of their Liquor. One of them offer'd to bear him Company as far as Kofir, as he was going to that City. The Slave overjoy'd at meeting with a Fellow Traveller, and relying on the Swiftness of his Horse, staid here longer than he ought. The Wine overpower'd him, and his artful Companion plying him with Bumpers, soon disabled him from going any farther. The Sot fell asleep, his Pockets were searched, and the Letter was known by the Direction to be one of those which they were order'd to intercept. One of them immediately set out to carry it to him who had appointed the Ambuscade, and he flew to deliver it to Zeokinizul. As the young Bassa appeared to know who was his Rival, suitable Measures were to be taken, and such an Answer sent to him as might throw him into Despair, and make him abandon a Passion which was now become dangerous. That it might have the better Effect, Nasica's Hand was exactly imitated, and every discouraging Argument forcibly urged. This counterfeited Letter gave him to understand, in the Name of his Mistress, that a crowned Lover being more acceptable to her than a private Subject, she strictly commanded him never to write, or speak one Word more of his presumptuous Passion.

This little Artifice proved of very happy Consequence to Zeokinizul. The young Bassa, who had a most respectful Regard for him, thought it became him to return Contempt for Contempt. His Answer was carefully deliver'd to the King, who could not but be highly pleased that the Credulity of his Rival should promote his Love. To complete his Satisfaction, he ordered a Letter to be writ to Nasica, in which her Lover freely exhorts her to take him for a Patern, and make another Choice. All these Batteries being so well disposed, Zeokinizul began to think of disclosing himself. He gave a Ball to his whole Court, in order to favour his Design, at which all the Ladies having an Opportunity of entertaining themselves with their favourite Diversions were highly delighted, and full of Gaiety. Nasica alone, seem'd insensible in the midst of all these Entertainments. She retired at a Distance to avoid the Conversation of the gallant Nobility. The soft Languor of her Eyes sufficiently declar'd the Sorrow of her Heart, and that the proper Person was wanting to dissipate it. Zeokinizul, chose this Time to begin his Addresses. Charming Nasica, says he, his Eyes sparkling with Love, what Disquietudes are those to which you seem to abandon yourself. Is there any Mortal so happy as to cause them? I do not think, Sire, return'd she, that what your Highness calls Disquietudes in me, can Interest you so far as to ask me the Occasion of them.—— Ah, Gods! not be interested, replied the transported Monarch, can you doubt of it, have not my Countenance, my Eyes, even my very Silence, which I have respectfully observ'd till now, have not all these informed you, that my Happiness entirely depends on your Repose and Contentment. Let not the charming Nasica be angry, continued he, perceiving, that she heard him with Resentment, I love you indeed, but my Passion is so pure, so submissive, that it can give no just Offence to your severe Vertue. I little imagined, interrupted she, that all these splendid Entertainments of the Court concealed any Design of throwing me into such alarming Apprehensions. Alarming Apprehensions! replied the King, is it then Matter of Grief to the loveliest Person now present, that her Charms have captivated her Sovereign? Yes, Sire, replied Nasica, resolutely, your Highness can only offer me a guilty Passion, and I would incur your utmost Displeasure, I would die, rather than condescend to it. Judge yourself, Sire, whether I have not Cause to be alarmed. But no, my Fears are too hasty. The great Zeokinizul is too just and generous to harbour a Thought of disgracing a Family which has always served him with Zeal and Honour, and it was merely to try his Subject, that he has demean'd himself to offer such Discourse to her. Immediately making a respectful Courtesy, she returned to the Circle of the Ladies.

Zeokinizul, was not a little piqued at the Manner in which Nasica had received the Declaration of his Love. He expected that Modesty and Reservedness would have been her only Defence, and that, at least, she would have spared reproaching him with such disagreeable Truths. After having for a long Time watched all Opportunities of seeing and speaking to her, finding himself disappointed and rejected, he lost all Patience, so as not to care whether his Addresses to her were heard by the whole Court, or not. One Day, as she was talking with the Ladies of Honour in the Queen's Anti-Chamber, he came to her. A proper Respect made them all withdraw, and the Monarch laid hold of this Occasion to renew his Protestations. But all his ardent Entreaties had no more Success than his first Declaration. Nasica's Modesty disengaged her with Honour from so delicate a Situation. Zeokinizul admired her Constancy, and tho' he despair'd of ever gaining her, yet he could not prevail upon himself to give over seeing her.

In the mean Time, the young Bassa's Resentment began to subside, and he became sensible, that what he had mistaken for Indifference, was only Love disguised and agitated with the most cruel Disquietude for the Fate of his dear Nasica. This State of Anxiety grew insupportable, he would be informed of the Truth at any Rate, and being at a Loss whom to trust, since the most faithful of his Slaves had fail'd of reaching Nasica's House, he resolv'd to go thither in Person. All the Dangers which he ran in disobeying his Sovereign's Orders, were too weak a Check for his Passion, and he set out with a Willingness to perish, provided he could once more throw himself at the Feet of the Object of his Love. After many Hazards of being known and stopp'd, tho' under a Disguise, he happily arrived at Kofir. But after a few Days employ'd in contriving Means for an Interview with his Mistress, whom he had informed of his Arrival, by a Letter convey'd to her by an old Governess, which contain'd a Vindication of himself as well as his Surprise at her Behaviour, he was known, and immediately surrounded by the Spies, placed by the King to watch him, and whose Diligence was to be highly rewarded. He stood upon his Defence, but being over-power'd, he was carried to one of the Court Prisons. Zeokinizul, whose Passion had stifled his natural Sentiments of Humanity, was pleased to hear that his Rival lay in Chains. His Disobedience to the Royal Orders afforded a specious Pretence for putting him to Death, and the King's Heart was immediately inclined to such a cruel Expedient; but how was he struck, when Nasica, being inform'd of the dreadful Condition of her Lover, threw herself at his Feet all in Tears, conjuring him that the same Stroke might put an End to both their unfortunate Lives. Let him live, Sire, cried she, mournfully, or order that Death may unite us both in the Grave. If your Highness be offended at the Refusal of my Heart, it was no longer mine, Love having disposed of it in Favour of the unhappy Bassa, who is now to fall your Victim. But his Views were honourable, nor were mine less innocent. Let your Highness pronounce the Decree of his Destiny, mine is inseperably annexed to it whatever it be.

Zeokinizul was moved with such exalted Virtue, and being naturally tender and compassionate, he was grieved at seeing the Afflictions of two Lovers whom he himself had render'd unhappy. A Ray of Wisdom opened his Eyes, and restored him to himself. He raised up Nasica, and gave Orders himself for the Preparations of her Marriage with the young Bassa, who afterwards became one of his chief Favourites.

So difficult an Act of Justice against himself, is one of the most glorious Periods of this Monarch's Reign. His Love for Nasica settled in a tender Friendship for this virtuous Lady, and soon after taking a Disgust at the Commerce of Women, he fixed a Resolution to abandon it entirely. His People became his whole Care. They adored him for the Wisdom and Goodness of his Administration during the Remainder of his Reign, which was much shorter than they desired. He endeavoured by his Instructions and Examples, to leave in his Son a worthy Successor, whose Virtues might keep up a lasting Idea of him. Such noble Cares were not disappointed, for the Name of the great Zeokinizul, and the illustrious Heir of his Crown, will be held in immortal Remembrance among the grateful Kofirans.



A KEY

For the better understanding the Amours of Zeokinizul.

Anagrams. French. English.

Africa Europe Europe Alniob Albion ou Angleterre Albion or England Alnobiens Albioniens ou Anglois Albionians or English Anserol (Kam) Duc d'Orleans Duke of Orleans Bapasis Pais-Bas Low Countries. Bileb Bible Duesois Suedois Swedes Ghinoer Hongrie Hungary Ginarkan Carignan Goilaus Gaulois Gaules Goplone Pologne Poland Guernonies Norvegiens Norwegians Houris Dames Ladies Jeflur Fleury Jerebi Iberie ou Espagne Iberia or Spain Imans Pretres Priests Junes Provinces Provinces-Unies United-Provinces Kalontil Chatillon Kam Duc ou Prince Duke or Prince Katenos Toscane Tuscany Kelirieu Richelieu Kertras Chartres Kigenpi Pequigny Kismar Marquis Marquis Kismare Marquise Marchioness Kofir Paris Kofirans Francois French Kranfs Francs Franks Lenertoula La Tournelle Leosanil Noailles Leutinemil Vintimille Liamil Mailly Liegnelau l'Evangile the Gospel Lundamberk Cumberland Manoris Romains Romans Maregins Germains ou Allemand Germans Meani du Maine A Mollak, le Cardinal Richelieu p. 4. Another Mollak, le Card. Mazarin p. 5. An old Mollak, le Card. Fleury pag. 13. Mollak, l'Eveque de Soissons the Bishop of Soissons p. 49, and 50. Mosque Couvent Convent Neitilane Italienne Italian Nhir Rhin Rhine Nodais Danois Danes Omeriseroufs Sousfermiers d'Ourtavan Vantadour Pamenralt Parlement Pepa le Pape the Pope Reinarol Lorraine Sesems Messes Masses Sicidem Medicis Sokans Saxons Suesi Jesus Tesoulou Toulouse Vameric Maurice, Comte de Saxe A Visir, p. 9. le Comte de Maurepas Vorompdap Pompadour Vosaie Savoie Savoy Zeoteirizul Louis treize Lewis the XIII. Zokitarezoul Louis quatorze Lewis the XIV. Zeokinizul Louis quinze Lewis the XV.

FINIS.