The 'sweet sentimental tragedy' of Agnes de Castro was founded by Mrs.
Behn upon a work by Mlle S. B. de Brillac, _Agnes de Castro, nouvelle
portugaise_ (1688), and various subsequent editions. In the same year
(1688) as Mrs. Behn's _Agnes de Castro; or, The Force of Generous Blood_
was published there appeared 'Two New Novels, i. _The Art of Making
Love_.[1] ii. _The Fatal Beauty of Agnes de Castro_: Taken out of the
History of Portugal. Translated from the French by P. B. G.[2] For
R. Bentley' (12mo). Each has a separate title page. Bellon's version
does not differ materially from Mrs. Behn, but she far exceeds him in
spirit and niceness of style.
So much legend has surrounded the romantic history of the beautiful Ines
de Castro that it is impossible fully to elucidate every detail of her
life. Born in the early years of the fourteenth century, she was the
daughter of Pedro Fernandez de Castro, major domo to Alphonso XI of
Castille. She accompanied her relative, Dona Constanca Manuel, daughter
to the Duke of Penafiel, to the court of Alphonso IV of Portugal when
this lady was to wed the Infante Don Pedro. Here Ines excited the
fondest love in Pedro's heart and the passion was reciprocated. She bore
him several children, and there can be no doubt that Dona Constanca was
madly jealous of her husband's amour with her fair friend. 13 November,
1345, Constanca died, and Pedro immediately married his mistress at
Braganza in the presence of the Bishop of Guarda. Their nuptials were
kept secret, and the old King kept pressing his son to take a wife.
Before long his spies found out the reason of the Infante's constant
refusals; and, beside himself with rage, he watched an opportunity
whilst Pedro, on a great hunting expedition, was absent from Coimbra
where they resided, and had Ines cruelly assassinated 7 January, 1355.
The grief of Pedro was terrible, he plunged the country into civil war,
and it was only by the tenderest solicitations of his mother and the
authority of several holy monks and bishops that he was restrained from
taking a terrible revenge upon his father. Alphonso died, his power
curtailed, his end unhappy, May, 1357.
A very literature has grown up around the lovely Ines, and many more
than a hundred items of interest could be enumerated. The best authority
is J. de Araujo, whose monumental _Bibliographia Inesiana_ was published
in 1897. Mrs. Behn's novel was immensely popular and is included, with
some unnecessary moral observations as preface, in Mrs. Griffith's _A
Collection of Novels_ (1777), Vol. III, which has a plate illustrating
the tale. It was turned into French by Marie-Genevieve-Charlotte Tiroux
d' Arconville (1720-1805), wife of a councillor of the Parliament, an
aimable blue-stocking who devoted her life wholly to literature, and
translated freely from English. This work is to be found in _Romans (les
deux premiers . . . tires des Lettres Persanes . . . par M. Littleton et
le dernier . . . d'un Recueil de Romans . . . de Madame Behn) traduits
de l' Anglois_, (Amsterdam, 1761.) It occurs again in _Melanges de
Litterature_ (12mo, 1775, etc.), Vol. VI.
A tragedy, _Agnes de Castro_, written by that philosophical lady,
Catherine Trotter (afterwards Cockburn), at the early age of sixteen,
and produced at the Theatre Royal, 1696, with Powell, Verbruggen, Mrs.
Rogers in the principal parts, is directly founded upon Mrs. Behn. It is
a mediocre play, and the same can even more truly be said of Mallet's
cold _Elvira_ (1763). This was acted, however, with fair success
thirteen times. Garrick played Don Pedro, his last original part, and
Mrs. Cibber Elvira. Such dull exercises as C. Symmons, _Inez, a tragedy_
(1796), and _Ignez de Castro_, a tragedy in verse, intended for _Hoad's
Magazine_ call for no comment.
There is a French play by Lamotte on the subject of Ines de Castro,
which was first produced 6 April, 1723. Voltaire found the first four
acts execrable and laughed consumedly. The fifth was so tender and true
that he melted into tears. In Italian we have, from the pen of
Bertoletti, _Inez de Castro_, tragedia, Milano, 1826.
In Spanish and Portuguese there are, of course, innumerable poems,
treaties, tragedies, studies, romances. Lope de Vega wrote _Dona Inez de
Castro_, and the beautiful episode of Camoens is deservedly famous.
Antonio Ferreira's splendid tragedy is well known. First published in
_Comedias Famosas dos Doctores de Sa de Mirande_ (4to, 1622), it can
also be read in _Poemas lusitanos_ (2 Vols., 8vo, Lisbon, 1771). Domingo
dos Reis Quita wrote a drama, _Ignez de Castro_, a translation of which,
by Benjamin Thompson, was published in 1800. There is also a play _Dona
Ignez de Castro_, by Nicolas Luiz, which was Englished by John Adamson,
whose version was printed at Newcastle, 1808.
[Footnote 1: Mr. Arundell Esdaile in his _Bibliography of Fiction_
(_printed before 1740_) erroneously identifies this amusing little
piece with Mrs. Behn's _The Lover's Watch_. It is, however, quite
another thing, dealing with a pseudo-Turkish language of love.]
[Footnote 2: i.e., Peter Bellon, Gent. Bellon was an assiduous
hackney writer and translator of the day. He has also left one
comedy, _The Mock Duellist; or, The French Valet_ (4to, 1675).]
THE HISTORY OF _AGNES de CASTRO_.
Tho' Love, all soft and flattering, promises nothing but Pleasures; yet
its Consequences are often sad and fatal. It is not enough to be in
love, to be happy; since Fortune, who is capricious, and takes delight
to trouble the Repose of the most elevated and virtuous, has very little
respect for passionate and tender Hearts, when she designs to produce
strange Adventures.
Many Examples of past Ages render this Maxim certain; but the Reign of
_Don Alphonso_ the IVth, King of _Portugal_, furnishes us with one, the
most extraordinary that History can produce.
He was the Son of that _Don Denis_, who was so successful in all his
Undertakings, that it was said of him, that he was capable of performing
whatever he design'd, (and of _Isabella_, a Princess of eminent Virtue)
who when he came to inherit a flourishing and tranquil State,
endeavour'd to establish Peace and Plenty in abundance in his Kingdom.
And to advance this his Design, he agreed on a Marriage between his Son
_Don Pedro_ (then about eight Years of Age) and _Bianca_, Daughter of
_Don Pedro_, King of _Castile_; and whom the young Prince married when
he arriv'd to his sixteenth Year.
_Bianca_ brought nothing to _Coimbra_ but Infirmities and very few
Charms. _Don Pedro_, who was full of Sweetness and Generosity, lived
nevertheless very well with her; but those Distempers of the Princess
degenerating into the Palsy, she made it her request to retire, and at
her Intercession the Pope broke the Marriage, and the melancholy
Princess conceal'd her Languishment in a solitary Retreat: And _Don
Pedro_, for whom they had provided another Match, married _Constantia
Manuel_, Daughter of _Don John Manuel_, a Prince of the Blood of
_Castile_, and famous for the Enmity he had to his King.
_Constantia_ was promised to the King of _Castile_; but the King not
keeping his word, they made no Difficulty of bestowing her on a young
Prince, who was one Day to reign over a number of fine Provinces. He was
but five and twenty years of Age, and the Man of all _Spain_ that had
the best Fashion and Grace: and with the most advantageous Qualities of
the Body he possest those of the Soul, and shewed himself worthy in all
things of the Crown that was destin'd for him.
The Princess _Constantia_ had Beauty, Wit, and Generosity, in as great a
measure as 'twas possible for a Woman to be possest with; her Merit
alone ought to have attach'd _Don Pedro_, eternally to her; and
certainly he had for her an Esteem, mix'd with so great a Respect, as
might very well pass for Love with those that were not of a nice and
curious Observation: but alas! his real Care was reserved for another
Beauty.
_Constantia_ brought into the World, the first Year after her Marriage,
a Son, who was called _Don Louis_: but it scarce saw the Light, and dy'd
almost as soon as born. The loss of this little Prince sensibly touched
her, but the Coldness she observ'd in the Prince her Husband, went yet
nearer her Heart; for she had given her self absolutely up to her Duty,
and had made her Tenderness for him her only Concern: But puissant
Glory, which ty'd her so entirely to the Interest of the Prince of
_Portugal_, open'd her Eyes upon his Actions, where she observ'd nothing
in his Caresses and Civilities that was natural, or could satisfy her
delicate Heart.
At first she fancy'd her self deceiv'd, but time having confirmed her in
what she fear'd, she sighed in secret; yet had that Consideration for
the Prince, as not to let him see her Disorder: and which nevertheless
she could not conceal from _Agnes de Castro_, who lived with her, rather
as a Companion, than a Maid of Honour, and whom her Friendship made her
infinitely distinguish from the rest.
This Maid, so dear to the Princess, very well merited the Preference her
Mistress gave her; she was beautiful to excess, wise, discreet, witty,
and had more Tenderness for _Constantia_ than she had for her self,
having quitted her Family, which was illustrious, to give her self
wholly to the Service of the Princess, and to follow her into
_Portugal_. It was into the Bosom of this Maid, that the Princess
unladed her first Moans; and the charming _Agnes_ forgot nothing that
might give ease to her afflicted Heart.
Nor was _Constantia_ the only Person who complained of _Don Pedro_:
Before his Divorce from _Bianca_, he had expressed some Care and
Tenderness for _Elvira Gonzales_, Sister to Don _Alvaro Gonzales_,
Favourite to the King of _Portugal_; and this Amusement in the young
Years of the Prince, had made a deep Impression on _Elvira_, who
flatter'd her Ambition with the Infirmities of _Bianca_. She saw, with a
secret Rage, _Constantia_ take her place, who was possest with such
Charms, that quite divested her of all Hopes.
Her Jealousy left her not idle, she examined all the Actions of the
Prince, and easily discover'd the little Regard he had for the Princess;
but this brought him not back to her. And it was upon very good grounds
that she suspected him to be in love with some other Person, and
possessed with a new Passion; and which she promised herself, she would
destroy as soon as she could find it out. She had a Spirit altogether
proper for bold and hazardous Enterprizes; and the Credit of her Brother
gave her so much Vanity, as all the Indifference of the Prince was not
capable of humbling.
The Prince languished, and concealed the Cause with so much Care, that
'twas impossible for any to find it out. No publick Pleasures were
agreeable to him, and all Conversations were tedious; and it was
Solitude alone that was able to give him any ease.
This Change surprized all the World. The King, who loved his Son very
tenderly, earnestly pressed him to know the Reason of his Melancholy;
but the Prince made no answer, but only this, That it was the effect of
his Temper.
But Time ran on, and the Princess was brought to bed of a second Son,
who liv'd, and was called _Fernando_. _Don Pedro_ forc'd himself a
little to take part in the publick Joy, so that they believ'd his Humour
was changing; but this Appearance of a Calm endur'd not long, and he
fell back again into his black Melancholy.
The artful _Elvira_ was incessantly agitated in searching out the
Knowledge of this Secret. Chance wrought for her; and, as she was
walking, full of Indignation and Anger, in the Garden of the Palace of
_Coimbra_, she found the Prince of _Portugal_ sleeping in an obscure
Grotto.
Her Fury could not contain it self at the sight of this loved Object,
she roll'd her Eyes upon him, and perceived in spite of Sleep, that some
Tears escaped his Eyes; the Flame which burnt yet in her Heart, soon
grew soft and tender there: But oh! she heard him sigh, and after that
utter these words, _Yes, Divine +Agnes+, I will sooner die than let you
know it: +Constantia+ shall have nothing to reproach me with._ _Elvira_
was enraged at this Discourse, which represented to her immediately, the
same moment, _Agnes de Castro_ with all her Charms; and not at all
doubting, but it was she who possest the Heart of _Don Pedro_, she found
in her Soul more Hatred for this fair Rival, than Tenderness for him.
The Grotto was not a fit Place to make Reflections in, or to form
Designs. Perhaps her first Transports would have made her waken him, if
she had not perceived a Paper lying under his Hand, which she softly
seiz'd on; and that she might not be surprized in the reading it, she
went out of the Garden with as much haste as confusion.
When she was retired to her Apartment, she open'd the Paper, trembling,
and found in it these Verses, writ by the Hand of _Don Pedro_; and
which, in appearance, he had newly then compos'd.
_In vain, Oh! Sacred Honour, you debate
The mighty Business in my Heart:
Love! Charming Love! rules all my Fate;
Interest and Glory claim no part.
The God, sure of his Victory, triumphs there,
And will have nothing in his Empire share._
_In vain, Oh! Sacred Duty, you oppose;
In vain, your Nuptial Tye you plead:
Those forc'd Devoirs LOVE overthrows,
And breaks the Vows he never made.
Fixing his fatal Arrows every where,
I burn and languish in a soft Despair._
_Fair Princess, you to whom my Faith is due;
Pardon the Destiny that drags me on:
'Tis not my fault my Heart's untrue,
I am compell'd to be undone.
My Life is yours, I gave it with my Hand,
But my Fidelity I can't command._
_Elvira_ did not only know the Writing of _Don Pedro_, but she knew also
that he could write Verses. And seeing the sad Part which _Constantia_
had in these which were now fallen into her hands, she made no scruple
of resolving to let the Princess see 'em: but that she might not be
suspected, she took care not to appear in this Business her self; and
since it was not enough for _Constantia_ to know that the Prince did not
love her, but that she must know also that he was a Slave to _Agnes de
Castro_, _Elvira_ caused these few Verses to be written in an unknown
Hand, under those writ by the Prince.
_Sleep betrayed th' unhappy Lover,
While Tears were streaming from his Eyes;
His heedless Tongue without disguise,
The Secret did discover:
The Language of his Heart declare,
That +Agnes'+ Image triumphs there._
_Elvira_ regarded neither Exactness nor Grace in these Lines: And if
they had but the effect she design'd, she wished no more.
Her Impatience could not wait till the next day to expose them: she
therefore went immediately to the Lodgings of the Princess, who was then
walking in the Garden of the Palace; and passing without resistance,
even to her Cabinet, she put the Paper into a Book, in which the
Princess used to read, and went out again unseen, and satisfy'd with her
good Fortune.
As soon as _Constantia_ was return'd, she enter'd into her Cabinet, and
saw the Book open, and the Verses lying in it, which were to cost her so
dear: She soon knew the Hand of the Prince which was so familiar to her;
and besides the Information of what she had always fear'd, she
understood it was _Agnes de Castro_ (whose Friendship alone was able to
comfort her in her Misfortunes) who was the fatal Cause of it: she read
over the Paper an hundred times, desiring to give her Eyes and Reason
the Lye; but finding but too plainly she was not deceiv'd, she found her
Soul possest with more Grief than Anger: when she consider'd, as much in
love as the Prince was, he had kept his Torment secret. After having
made her moan, without condemning him, the Tenderness she had for him,
made her shed a Torrent of Tears, and inspir'd her with a Resolution of
concealing her Resentment.
She would certainly have done it by a Virtue extraordinary, if the
Prince, who missing his Verses when he waked, and fearing they might
fall into indiscreet Hands, had not enter'd the Palace, all troubled
with his Loss; and hastily going into _Constantia's_ Apartment, saw her
fair Eyes all wet with Tears, and at the same instant cast his own on
the unhappy Verses that had escaped from his Soul, and now lay before
the Princess.
He immediately turned pale at this sight, and appear'd so mov'd, that
the generous Princess felt more Pain than he did: 'Madam, _said he_,
(infinitely alarm'd) from whom had you that Paper? It cannot come but
from the Hand of some Person, _answer'd_ Constantia, who is an Enemy
both to your Repose and mine. It is the Work, Sir, of your own Hand; and
doubtless the Sentiment of your Heart. But be not surprized, and do not
fear; for if my Tenderness should make it pass for a Crime in you, the
same Tenderness which nothing is able to alter, shall hinder me from
complaining.'
The Moderation and Calmness of _Constantia_, served only to render the
Prince more asham'd and confus'd. _How generous are you, Madam_,
(pursu'd he) _and how unfortunate am I!_ Some Tears accompany'd his
Words, and the Princess, who lov'd him with extreme Ardour, was so
sensibly touch'd, that it was a good while before she could utter a
word. _Constantia_ then broke silence, and shewing him what _Elvira_ had
caus'd to be written: _You are betray'd, Sir_, (added she) _you have
been heard speak, and your Secret is known._ It was at this very moment
that all the Forces of the Prince abandon'd him; and his Condition was
really worthy Compassion: He could not pardon himself the involuntary
Crime he had committed, in exposing of the lovely and the innocent
_Agnes_. And tho' he was convinced of the Virtue and Goodness of
_Constantia_, the Apprehensions that he had, that this modest and
prudent Maid might suffer by his Conduct, carry'd him beyond all
Consideration.
The Princess, who heedfully survey'd him, saw so many Marks of Despair
in his Face and Eyes, that she was afraid of the Consequences; and
holding out her Hand, in a very obliging manner to him, she said,
'I promise you, Sir, I will never more complain of you, and that _Agnes_
shall always be very dear to me; you shall never hear me make you any
Reproaches: And since I cannot possess your Heart, I will content myself
with endeavouring to render myself worthy of it.' _Don Pedro_, more
confus'd and dejected than before he had been, bent one of his Knees at
the feet of _Constantia_, and with respect kiss'd that fair kind Hand
she had given him, and perhaps forgot _Agnes_ for a moment.
But Love soon put a stop to all the little Advances of _Hymen_; the
fatal Star that presided over the Destiny of _Don Pedro_ had not yet
vented its Malignity; and one moment's sight of _Agnes_ gave new Force
to his Passion.
The Wishes and Desires of this charming Maid had no part in this
Victory; her Eyes were just, tho' penetrating, and they searched not in
those of the Prince, what they had a desire to discover to her.
As she was never far from _Constantia_, _Don Pedro_ was no sooner gone
out of the Closet, but _Agnes_ enter'd; and finding the Princess all
pale and languishing in her Chair, she doubted not but there was some
sufficient Cause for her Affliction: she put herself in the same Posture
the Prince had been in before, and expressing an Inquietude, full of
Concern; 'Madam, _said she_, by all your Goodness, conceal not from me
the Cause of your Trouble. Alas, _Agnes_, _reply'd the Princess_, what
would you know? And what should I tell you? The Prince, the Prince, my
dearest Maid, is in love; the Hand that he gave me, was not a Present of
his Heart; and for the Advantage of this Alliance, I must become the
Victim of it--What! the Prince in Love! (_reply'd +Agnes+, with an
Astonishment mix'd with Indignation_) What Beauty can dispute the Empire
over a Heart so much your due? Alas, Madam, all the Respect I owe him,
cannot hinder me from murmuring against him. Accuse him of nothing,
(_interrupted_ Constantia) he does what he can; and I am more oblig'd to
him for desiring to be faithful, than if I possest his real Tenderness.
It is not enough to fight, but to overcome; and the Prince does more in
the Condition wherein he is, than I ought reasonably to hope for: In
fine, he is my Husband, and an agreeable one; to whom nothing is
wanting, but what I cannot inspire; that is, a Passion which would have
made me but too happy. Ah! Madam, (_cry'd out +Agnes+, transported with
her Tenderness for the Princess_) he is a blind and stupid Prince, who
knows not the precious Advantages he possesses. He must surely know
something, (_reply'd the Princess modestly._) But, Madam, (_reply'd
+Agnes+_) Is there any thing, not only in _Portugal_, but in all
_Spain_, that can compare with you? And without considering the charming
Qualities of your Person, can we enough admire those of your Soul? My
dear _Agnes_, (_interrupted +Constantia+, sighing_) she who robs me of
my Husband's Heart, has but too many Charms to plead his Excuse; since
it is thou, Child, whom Fortune makes use of, to give me the killing
Blow. Yes, _Agnes_, the Prince loves thee; and the Merit I know thou art
possest of, puts bounds to my Complaints, without suffering me to have
the least Resentment.'
The delicate _Agnes_ little expected to hear what the Princess told her:
Thunder would have less surpriz'd, and less oppres'd her. She remain'd a
long time without speaking; but at last, fixing her Looks all frightful
on _Constantia_, 'What say you, Madam? (_cry'd she_) And what Thoughts
have you of me? What, that I should betray you? And coming hither only
full of Ardor to be the Repose of your Life, do I bring a fatal Poison
to afflict it? What Detestation must I have for the Beauty they find in
me, without aspiring to make it appear? And how ought I to curse the
unfortunate Day, on which I first saw the Prince?--But, Madam, it cannot
be me whom Heaven has chosen to torment you, and to destroy all your
Tranquillity: No, it cannot be so much my Enemy, to put me to so great a
Tryal. And if I were that odious Person, there is no Punishment, to
which I would not condemn my self. It is _Elvira_, Madam, the Prince
loves, and loved before his Marriage with you, and also before his
Divorce from _Bianca_; and somebody has made an indiscreet Report to you
of this Intrigue of his Youth: But, Madam, what was in the time of
_Bianca_, is nothing to you. It is certain that _Don Pedro_ loves you,
(_answer'd the Princess_) and I have Vanity enough to believe, that,
none besides your self could have disputed his Heart with me: But the
Secret is discover'd, and _Don Pedro_ has not disown'd it. What,
(_interrupted +Agnes+, more surpriz'd than ever_) is it then from
himself you have learned his Weakness?' The Princess then shew'd her the
Verses, and there was never any Despair like to hers.
While they were both thus sadly employ'd, both sighing, and both
weeping, the impatient _Elvira_, who was willing to learn the Effect of
her Malice, returned to the Apartment of the Princess, where she freely
enter'd; even to the Cabinet where these unhappy Persons were: who all
afflicted and troubled as they were, blushed at her approach, whose
Company they did not desire: She had the Pleasure to see _Constantia_
hide from her the Paper which had been the Cause of all their Trouble,
and which the Princess had never seen, but for her Spite and Revenge;
and to observe also in the Eyes of the Princess, and those of _Agnes_,
an immoderate Grief: She staid in the Cabinet as long as it was
necessary to be assur'd, that she had succeeded in her Design; but the
Princess, who did not desire such a Witness of the Disorder in which she
then was, pray'd to be left alone. _Elvira_ then went out of the
Cabinet, and _Agnes de Castro_ withdrew at the same time.
It was in her own Chamber, that _Agnes_ examining more freely this
Adventure, found it as cruel as Death. She loved _Constantia_ sincerely,
and had not till then any thing more than an Esteem, mixt with
Admiration, for the Prince of _Portugal_; which indeed, none could
refuse to so many fine Qualities. And looking on her self as the most
unfortunate of her Sex, as being the Cause of all the Sufferings of the
Princess, to whom she was obliged for the greatest Bounties, she spent
the whole Night in Tears and Complaints, sufficient to have reveng'd
_Constantia_ for all the Griefs she made her suffer.
The Prince, on his side, was in no great Tranquillity; the Generosity of
his Princess increas'd his Remorse, without diminishing his Love: he
fear'd, and with reason, that those who were the occasion of
_Constantia's_ seeing those Verses, should discover his Passion to the
King, from whom he hoped for no Indulgence: and he would most willingly
have given his Life, to have been free from this Extremity.
In the mean time the afflicted Princess languished in a most deplorable
Sadness; she found nothing in those who were the Cause of her
Misfortunes, but things fitter to move her Tenderness than her Anger: It
was in vain that Jealousy strove to combat the Inclination she had to
love her fair Rival; nor was there any occasion of making the Prince
less dear to her: and she felt neither Hatred, nor so much as
Indifference for innocent _Agnes_.
While these three disconsolate Persons abandon'd themselves to their
Melancholy, _Elvira_, not to leave her Vengeance imperfect, study'd in
what manner she might bring it to the height of its Effects. Her
Brother, on whom she depended, shew'd her a great deal of Friendship,
and judging rightly that the Love of _Don Pedro_ to _Agnes de Castro_
would not be approved by the King, she acquainted _Don Alvaro_ her
Brother with it, who was not ignorant of the Passion the Prince had once
protested to have for his Sister. He found himself very much interested
in this News, from a second Passion he had for _Agnes_; which the
Business of his Fortune had hitherto hindred him from discovering: and
he expected a great many Favours from the King, that might render the
Effort of his Heart the more considerable.
He hid not from his Sister this one thing, which he found difficult to
conceal; so that she was now possest with a double Grief, to find
_Agnes_ Sovereign of all the Hearts to which she had a pretension.
_Don Alvaro_ was one of those ambitious Men, that are fierce without
Moderation, and proud without Generosity; of a melancholy, cloudy
Humour, of a cruel Inclination, and to effect his Ends, found nothing
difficult or unlawful. Naturally he lov'd not the Prince, who, on all
accounts, ought to have held the first Rank in the Heart of the King,
which should have set bounds to the Favour of _Don Alvaro_; who when he
knew the Prince was his Rival, his Jealousy increas'd his Hate of him:
and he conjured _Elvira_ to employ all her Care, to oppose an Engagement
that could not but be destructive to them both; she promised him, and he
not very well satisfy'd, rely'd on her Address.
_Don Alvaro_, who had too lively a Representation within himself, of the
Beauties and Grace of the Prince of _Portugal_, thought of nothing, but
how to combat his Merits, he himself not being handsome, or well made:
His Fashion was as disagreeable as his Humour, and _Don Pedro_ had all
the Advantages that one Man may possibly have over another. In fine, all
that _Don Alvaro_ wanted, adorn'd the Prince: but as he was the Husband
of _Constantia_, and depended upon an absolute Father, and that _Don
Alvaro_ was free, and Master of a good Fortune, he thought himself more
assur'd of _Agnes_, and fixed his Hopes on that Thought.
He knew very well, that the Passion of _Don Pedro_ could not but inspire
a violent Anger in the Soul of the King. Industrious in doing ill, his
first Business was to carry this unwelcome News to him. After he had
given time to his Grief, and had compos'd himself to his Desire, he then
besought the King to interest himself in his amorous Affair, and to be
the Protector of his Person.
Tho' _Don Alvaro_ had no other Merit to recommend him to the King, than
a continual and blind Obedience to all his Commands; yet he had favour'd
him with several Testimonies of his vast Bounty: and considering the
Height to which the King's Liberality had rais'd him, there were few
Ladies that would have refused his Alliance. The King assured him of the
Continuation of his Friendship and Favour, and promised him, if he had
any Authority, he would give him the charming _Agnes_.
_Don Alvaro_, perfectly skilful in managing his Master, answer'd the
King's last Bounties with a profound Submission. He had yet never told
_Agnes_ what he felt for her; but he thought now he might make a publick
Declaration of it, and sought all means to do it.
The Gallantry which _Coimbra_ seem'd to have forgotten, began now to be
awakened. The King to please _Don Alvaro_, under pretence of diverting
_Constantia_, order'd some publick Sports, and commanded that every
thing should be magnificent.
Since the Adventure of the Verses, _Don Pedro_ endeavour'd to lay a
constraint on himself, and to appear less troubled; but in his heart he
suffer'd always alike: and it was not but with great uneasiness he
prepar'd himself for the Tournament. And since he could not appear with
the Colours of _Agnes_, he took those of his Wife, without Device, or
any great Magnificence.
_Don Pedro_ adorn'd himself with the Liveries of _Agnes de Castro_; and
this fair Maid, who had yet found no Consolation from what the Princess
had told her, had this new cause of being displeas'd.
_Don Pedro_ appear'd in the List with an admirable Grace; and _Don
Alvaro_, who looked on this Day as his own, appear'd there all shining
with Gold, mix'd with Stones of Blue, which were the Colours of _Agnes_;
and there were embroider'd all over his Equipage, flaming Hearts of Gold
on blue Velvet, and Nets for the Snares of Love, with abundance of
double _A's_; his Device was a Love coming out of a Cloud, with these
Verses written underneath:
_Love from a Cloud breaks like the God of Day,
And to the World his Glories does display;
To gaze on charming Eyes, and make 'em know,
What to soft Hearts, and to his Power they owe._
The Pride of _Don Alvaro_ was soon humbled at the feet of the Prince of
_Portugal_, who threw him against the Ground, with twenty others, and
carry'd alone the Glory of the Day. There was in the Evening a noble
Assembly at _Constantia's_, where _Agnes_ would not have been, unless
expresly commanded by the Princess. She appear'd there all negligent and
careless in her Dress, but yet she appear'd all beautiful and charming.
She saw, with disdain, her Name, and her Colours, worn by _Don Alvaro_,
at a publick Triumph; and if her Heart was capable of any tender
Motions, it was not for such a Man as he for whom her Delicacy destin'd
them: She look'd on him with a Contempt, which did not hinder him from
pressing so near, that there was a necessity for her to hear what he had
to declare to her.
She treated him not uncivilly, but her Coldness would have rebated the
Courage of any but _Alvaro_. 'Madam, said he, (when he could be heard of
none but herself) I have hitherto concealed the Passion you have
inspired me with, fearing it should displease you; but it has committed
a Violence on my Respect; and I could no longer conceal it from you.
I never reflected on your Actions (answer'd _Agnes_ with all the
Indifference of which she was capable) and if you think you offend me,
you are in the wrong to make me perceive it. This Coldness is but an ill
Omen for me (reply'd _Don Alvaro_) and if you have not found me out to
be your Lover to-day, I fear you will never approve my Passion.'
'Oh! what a time have you chosen to make it appear to me? (pursued
_Agnes_.) Is it so great an Honour for me, that you must take such care
to shew it to the World? And do you think that I am so desirous of
Glory, that I must aspire to it by your Actions? If I must, you have
very ill maintain'd it in the Tournament; and if it be that Vanity that
you depend upon, you will make no great progress on a Soul that is not
fond of Shame. If you were possest of all the Advantages, which the
Prince has this day carried away, you yet ought to consider what you are
going about; and it is not a Maid like me, who is touched with
Enterprizes, without respect or permission.'
The Favourite of the King was too proud to hear _Agnes_, without
Indignation: but as he was willing to conceal it, and not offend her, he
made not his Resentment appear; and considering the Observation she made
on the Triumphs of _Don Pedro_, (which increased his Jealousies) 'If I
have not overcome at the Tournament, reply'd he, I am not the less in
love for being vanquish'd, nor less capable of Success on occasion.'
They were interrupted here, but from that day, _Don Alvaro_, who had
open'd the first Difficulties, kept no more his wonted Distance, but
perpetually persecuted _Agnes_; yet, tho' he were protected by the King,
that inspir'd in her never the more Consideration for him. _Don Pedro_
was always ignorant by what means the Verses he had lost in the Garden,
fell into the hands of _Constantia_. As the Princess appeared to him
indulgent, he was only concerned for _Agnes_; and the love of _Don
Alvaro_, which was then so well known, increas'd the Pain: and had he
been possess'd of the Authority, he would not have suffer'd her to have
been expos'd to the Persecutions of so unworthy a Rival. He was also
afraid of the King's being advertised of his Passion, but he thought not
at all of _Elvira_, nor apprehended any Malice from her Resentment.
While she burnt with a Desire of destroying _Agnes_, against whom she
vented all her Venom, she was never weary of making new Reports to her
Brother, assuring him, that tho' they could not prove that _Agnes_ made
any returns to the Tenderness of the Prince, yet that was the Cause of
_Constantia's_ Grief: And, that if this Princess should die of it, _Don
Pedro_ might marry _Agnes_. In fine, she so incens'd the jealous _Don
Alvaro's_ Jealousy, that he could not hinder himself from running
immediately to the King, with the discovery of all he knew, and all he
guest, and who, he had the pleasure to find, was infinitely inrag'd at
the News. 'My dear _Alvaro_, said the King, you shall instantly marry
this dangerous Beauty: And let Possession assure your Repose and mine.
If I have protected you on other Occasions, judge what a Service of so
great an Importance for me, would make me undertake; and without any
reserve, the Forces of this State are in your power, and almost any
thing that I can give shall be assured you, so you render your self
Master of the Destiny of _Agnes_.'
_Don Alvaro_ pleas'd, and vain with his Master's Bounty, made use of all
the Authority he gave him: He passionately lov'd _Agnes_, and would not,
on the sudden, make use of Violence; but resolv'd with himself to employ
all possible Means to win her fairly; yet if that fail'd, to have
recourse to force, if she continued always insensible.
While _Agnes de Castro_ (importun'd by his Assiduities, despairing at
the Grief of _Constantia_, and perhaps made tender by those she had
caus'd in the Prince of _Portugal_) took a Resolution worthy of her
Virtue; yet, amiable as _Don Pedro_ was, she found nothing in him, but
his being Husband to _Constantia_, that was dear to her: And, far from
encouraging the Power she had got over his Heart, she thought of nothing
but of removing from _Coimbra_. The Passion of _Don Alvaro_, which she
had no inclination to favour, served her as a Pretext; and press'd with
the fear of causing, in the end, a cruel Divorce between the Prince and
his Princess, she went to find _Constantia_, with a trouble, which all
her Care was not able to hide from her.
The Princess easily found it out; and their common Misfortunes having
not chang'd their Friendship--'What ails you, _Agnes_? (said the
Princess to her, in a soft Tone, and with her ordinary Sweetness) And
what new Misfortune causes that sadness in thy Looks? Madam (reply'd
_Agnes_, shedding a Rivulet of Tears) the Obligations and Ties I have to
you, put me upon a cruel Tryal; I had bounded the Felicity of my Life in
hope of passing it near your Highness, yet I must carry to some other
part of the World this unlucky Face of mine, which renders me nothing
but ill Offices: And it is to obtain that Liberty, that I am come to
throw my self at your feet; looking upon you as my Sovereign.'
_Constantia_ was so surpriz'd and touch'd with the Proposition of
_Agnes_, that she lost her Speech for some moments; Tears, which were
sincere, express'd her first Sentiments: And after having shed
abundance, to give a new mark of her Tenderness to the fair afflicted
_Agnes_, she with a sad and melancholy Look, fix'd her Eyes upon her,
and holding out her Hand to her, in a most obliging manner, sighing,
cry'd--'You will then, my dear _Agnes_, leave me; and expose me to the
Griefs of seeing you no more? Alas, Madam, (interrupted this lovely
Maid) hide from the unhappy _Agnes_ a Bounty which does but increase her
Misfortunes: It is not I, Madam, that would leave you; it is my Duty,
and my Reason that orders my Fate. And those Days which I shall pass far
from you, promise me nothing to oblige me to this Design, if I did not
see my self absolutely forc'd to it. I am not ignorant of what passes at
_Coimbra_; and I shall be an Accomplice of the Injustice there
committed, if I should stay there any longer.--Ah, I know your Virtue,
(cry'd _Constantia_) and you may remain here in all safety, while I am
your Protectress; and let what will happen, I will accuse you of
nothing. There's no answering for what's to come, (reply'd _Agnes_,
sadly) and I shall be sufficiently guilty, if my Presence cause
Sentiments, which cannot be innocent. Besides, Madam, the Importunities
of _Don Alvaro_ are insupportable to me; and tho' I find nothing but
Aversion to him, since the King protects his Insolence, and he's in a
condition of undertaking any thing, my Flight is absolutely necessary.
But, Madam, tho' he has nothing but what seems odious to me; I call
Heaven to witness, that if I could cure the Prince by marrying _Don
Alvaro_, I would not consider of it a moment; and finding in my
Punishment the Consolation of sacrificing my self to my Princess,
I would support it without murmuring. But if I were the Wife of _Don
Alvaro_, _Don Pedro_ would always look upon me with the same Eyes: So
that I find nothing more reasonable for me, than to hide my self in some
Corner of the World; where, tho' I shall most certainly live without
Pleasure, yet I shall preserve the Repose of my dearest Mistress. All
the Reason you find in this Design, (answered the Princess) cannot
oblige me to approve of your Absence: Will it restore me the Heart of
_Don Pedro_? And will he not fly away with you? His Grief is mine, and
my Life is ty'd to his; do not make him despair then, if you love me.
I know you, I tell you so once more; and let your Power be ever so great
over the Heart of the Prince, I will not suffer you to abandon us.'
Tho' _Agnes_ thought she had perfectly known _Constantia_, yet she did
not expect to find so intire a Virtue in her, which made her think her
self more happy, and the Prince more criminal. 'Oh, Wisdom! Oh, Bounty
without Example! (cry'd she) Why is it, that the cruel Destinies do not
give you all you deserve? You are the disposer of my Actions, (continued
she in kissing the Hand of _Constantia_) I'll do nothing but what you'll
have me: But consider, and weigh well the Reasons that ought to counsel
you in the Measures you oblige me to take.'
_Don Pedro_, who had not seen the Princess all that day, came in then,
and finding 'em both extremely troubled, with a fierce Impatience,
demanded the Cause: 'Sir, answered _Constantia_, _Agnes_ too wise, and
too scrupulous, fears the Effects of her Beauty, and will live no longer
at _Coimbra_; and it was on this Subject, (which cannot be agreeable
to me) that she ask'd my Advice.' The Prince grew pale at this
Discourse, and snatching the Words from her Mouth (with more concern
than possest either of them) cry'd with a Voice very feeble, '_Agnes_
cannot fail if she follow your Counsel, Madam: and I leave you full
liberty to give it her.' He then immediately went out, and the Princess,
whose Heart he perfectly possest, not being able to hide her
Displeasure, said, 'My dear _Agnes_, if my Satisfaction did not only
depend on your Conversation, I should desire it of you, for _Don
Pedro's_ sake; it is the only Advantage that his unfortunate Love can
hope: And would not the World have reason to call me barbarous, if I
contribute to deprive him of that? But the sight of me will prove a
Poison to him--(reply'd _Agnes_) And what should I do, my Princess, if
after the Reserve he has hitherto kept, his Mouth should add anything to
the Torments I have already felt, by speaking to me of his Flame? You
would hear him sure, without causing him to despair, (reply'd
_Constantia_) and I should put this Obligation to the account of the
rest you have done. Would you then have me expect those Events which I
fear, Madam? (reply'd _Agnes_) Well--I will obey, but just Heaven
(pursued she) if they prove fatal, do not punish an innocent Heart for
it.' Thus this Conversation ended. _Agnes_ withdrew into her Chamber,
but it was not to be more at ease.
What _Don Pedro_ had learn'd of the Design of _Agnes_, caus'd a cruel
Agitation in his Soul; he wished he had never loved her, and desir'd a
thousand times to die: But it was not for him to make Vows against a
thing which Fate had design'd him; and whatever Resolutions he made, to
bear the Absence of _Agnes_, his Tenderness had not force enough to
consent to it.
After having, for a long time, combated with himself, he determined to
do what was impossible for him to let _Agnes_ do. His Courage reproach'd
him with the Idleness, in which he past the most youthful and vigorous
part of his Days: and making it appear to the King, that his Allies, and
even the Prince _Don John Emanuel_, his Father-in-law, had concerns in
the World which demanded his Presence on the Frontiers, he easily
obtain'd Liberty to make this Journey, to which the Princess would put
no Obstacle.
_Agnes_ saw him part without any Concern, but it was not upon the
account of any Aversion she had to him. _Don Alvaro_ began then to make
his Importunity an open Persecution; he forgot nothing that might touch
the insensible _Agnes_, and made use, a long time, only of the Arms of
Love: But seeing that this Submission and Respect was to no purpose, he
form'd strange Designs.
As the King had a deference for all his Counsels, it was not difficult
to inspire him with what he had a mind to: He complain'd of the
ungrateful _Agnes_, and forgot nothing that might make him perceive that
she was not cruel to him on his account, but from the too much
Sensibility she had for the Prince. The King, who was extreme angry at
this, reiterated all the Promises he had made him.
The King had not yet spoken to _Agnes_ in favour of _Don Alvaro_; and
not doubting but his Approbation would surmount all Obstacles, he took
an occasion to entertain her with it: And removing some distance from
those who might hear him, 'I thought _Don Alvaro_ had Merit enough (said
he to her) to have obtained a little share in your Esteem; and I could
not imagine there would have been any necessity of my solliciting it for
him: I know you are very charming, but he has nothing that renders him
unworthy of you; and when you shall reflect on the Choice my Friendship
has made of him from among all the great Men of my Court, you will do
him at the same time Justice. His Fortune is none of the meanest, since
he has me for his Protector: He is nobly born, a Man of Honour and
Courage: he adores you, and it seems to me that all these Reasons are
sufficient to vanquish your Pride.'
The Heart of _Agnes_ was so little disposed to give it self to _Don
Alvaro_, that all the King of _Portugal_ had said had no effect on her
in his favour. 'If _Don Alvaro_, Sir, (answered she) were without Merit,
he possesses Advantages enough in the Bounty your Majesty is pleased to
honour him with, to make him Master of all things, it is not that I find
any Defect in him that I answer not his Desires: But, Sir, by what
obstinate Power would you that I should love, if Heaven has not given me
a Soul that is tender? And why should you pretend that I should submit
to him, when nothing is dearer to me than my liberty? You are not so
free, nor so insensible, as you say, (answer'd the King, blushing with
Anger;) and if your Heart were exempt from all sorts of Affection, he
might expect a more reasonable Return than what he finds. But imprudent
Maid, conducted by an ill Fate, (added he in fury) what Pretensions have
you to _Don Pedro_? Hitherto I have hid the Chagrin, which his Weakness,
and yours give me; but it was not the less violent for being hid. And
since you oblige me to break out, I must tell you, that if my Son were
not already married to _Constantia_, he should never be your Husband;
renounce then those vain Ideas, which will cure him, and justify you.'
The courageous _Agnes_ was scarce Mistress of the first Transports, at a
Discourse so full of Contempt; but calling her Virtue to the aid of her
Anger, she recover'd herself by the assistance of Reason: And
considering the Outrage she receiv'd, not as coming from a great King,
but a Man blinded and possest by _Don Alvaro_, she thought him not
worthy of her Resentment; her fair Eyes animated themselves with so
shining a vivacity, they answer'd for the purity of her Sentiments; and
fixing them steadfastly on the King, 'If the Prince _Don Pedro_ have
Weaknesses, (reply'd she, with an Air disdainful) he never communicated
'em to me; and I am certain, I never contributed wilfully to 'em: But to
let you see how little I regard your Defiance, and to put my Glory in
safety, I will live far from you, and all that belongs to you: Yes, Sir,
I will quit _Coimbra_ with pleasure; and for this Man, who is so dear to
you, (answer'd she with a noble Pride and Fierceness, of which the King
felt all the force) for this Favourite, so worthy to possess the most
tender Affections of a great Prince, I assure you, that into whatever
part of the World Fortune conducts me, I will not carry away the least
Remembrance of him.' At these words she made a profound Reverence, and
made such haste from his Presence, that he could not oppose her going if
he would.
The King was now more strongly convinc'd than ever, that she favour'd
the Passion of _Don Pedro_, and immediately went to _Constantia_, to
inspire her with the same Thought; but she was not capable of receiving
such Impressions, and following her own natural Inclinations, she
generously defended the Virtue of his Actions. The King, angry to see
her so well intentioned to her Rival, whom he would have had her hated,
reproached her with the sweetness of her Temper, and went thence to mix
his Anger with _Don Alvaro's_ Rage, who was totally confounded when he
saw the Negotiation of his Master had taken no effect. The haughty Maid
braves me then, Sir, said he to the King, and despises the Honour which
your Bounty offered her! Why cannot I resist so fatal a Passion? But I
must love her, in spite of my self; and if this Flame consume me, I can
find no way to extinguish it. What can I further do for you, replied the
King? Alas, Sir, answered _Don Alvaro_, I must do by force, what I
cannot otherwise hope from the proud and cruel _Agnes_. Well then, added
the King, since it is not fit for me to authorize publickly a Violence
in the midst of my Kingdom, chuse those of my Subjects whom you think
most capable of serving you, and take away by force the Beauty that
charms you; and if she do not yield to your Love, put that Power you are
Master of in execution, to oblige her to marry you.
_Don Alvaro_, ravish'd with this Proposition, which at the same time
flatter'd both his Love and his Anger, cast himself at the Feet of the
King, and renewed his Acknowledgments by fresh Protestations, and
thought of nothing but employing his unjust Authority against _Agnes_.
_Don Pedro_ had been about three Months absent, when _Alvaro_ undertook
what the King counselled him to; tho' the Moderation was known to him,
yet he feared his Presence, and would not attend the return of a Rival,
with whom he would avoid all Disputes.
One Night, when the said _Agnes_, full of her ordinary Inquietudes, in
vain expected the God of Sleep, she heard a Noise, and after saw some
Men unknown enter her Chamber, whose Measures being well consulted, they
carried her out of the Palace, and putting her in a close Coach, forced
her out of _Coimbra_, without being hinder'd by any Obstacle. She knew
not of whom to complain, nor whom to suspect: _Don Alvaro_ seem'd too
puissant to seek his Satisfaction this way; and she accus'd not the
Prince of this attempt, of whom she had so favourable an Opinion:
whatever she could think or say, she could not hinder her ill Fortune:
They hurried her on with diligence, and before it was Day, were a
considerable way off from the Town.
As soon as Day began to break, she surveyed those that encompassed her,
without so much as knowing one of them; and seeing that her Cries and
Prayers were all in vain with these deaf Ravishers, she satisfied her
self with imploring the Protection of Heaven, and abandon'd herself to
its Conduct.
While she sat thus overwhelmed with Grief, uncertain of her Destiny, she
saw a Body of Horse advance towards the Troop which conducted her: the
Ravishers did not shun them, thinking it to be _Don Alvaro_: but when he
approached more near, they found it was the Prince of _Portugal_ who was
at the head of 'em, and who, without foreseeing the occasion that would
offer it self of serving _Agnes_, was returning to _Coimbra_ full of her
Idea, after having performed what he ought in this Expedition.
_Agnes_, who did not expect him, changed now her Opinion, and thought
that it was the Prince that had caused her to be stolen away. 'Oh, Sir!
(said she to him, having still the same Thought) is it you that have
torn me from the Princess? And could so cruel a Blow come from a Hand
that is so dear to her? What will you do with an unfortunate Creature,
who desires nothing but Death? And why will you obscure the Glory of
your Life, by an Artifice unworthy of you?' This Language astonish'd the
Prince no less than the sight of _Agnes_ had done; he found by what she
had said, that she was taken away by force; and immediately passing to
the height of Rage, he made her understand by one only Look, that he was
not the base Author of her trouble. 'I tear you from _Constantia_, whose
only Pleasure you are! replied he: What Opinion have you of _Don Pedro_?
No, Madam, tho' you see me here, I am altogether innocent of the
Violence that has been done you; and there is nothing I will refuse to
hinder it.' He then turned himself to behold the Ravishers, but his
Presence had already scatter'd 'em, he order'd some of his Men to pursue
'em, and to seize some of 'em, that he might know what Authority it was
that set 'em at work.
During this, _Agnes_ was no less confus'd than before; she admir'd the
Conduct of her Destiny, that brought the Prince at a time when he was so
necessary to her. Her Inclinations to do him justice, soon repair'd the
Offence her Suspicions had caus'd; she was glad to have escap'd a
Misfortune, which appear'd certain to her: but this was not a sincere
Joy, when she consider'd that her Lover was her Deliverer, and a Lover
worthy of all her Acknowledgments, but who owed his Heart to the most
amiable Princess in the World.
While the Prince's Men were pursuing the Ravishers of _Agnes_, he was
left almost alone with her; and tho' he had always resolv'd to shun
being so, yet his Constancy was not proof against so fair an Occasion:
'Madam, said he to her, is it possible that Men born amongst those that
obey us, should be capable of offending you? I never thought my self
destin'd to revenge such an Offence; but since Heaven has permitted you
to receive it, I will either perish or make them repent it.' 'Sir,
replied _Agnes_, more concern'd at this Discourse than at the Enterprize
of _Don Alvaro_, those who are wanting in their respect to the Princess
and you, are not obliged to have any for me. I do not in the least doubt
that _Don Alvaro_ was the undertaker of this Enterprize; and I judged
what I ought to fear from him, by what his Importunities have already
made me suffer. He is sure of the King's Protection, and he will make
him an Accomplice in his Crime: but, Sir, Heaven conducted you hither
happily for me, and I am indebted to you for the liberty I have of
serving the Princess yet longer.' 'You will do for _Constantia_, replied
the Prince, what 'tis impossible not to do for you; your Goodness
attaches you to her, and my Destiny engages me to you for ever.'
The modest _Agnes_, who fear'd this Discourse as much as the Misfortune
she had newly shunned, answer'd nothing but by down-cast Eyes; and the
Prince, who knew the trouble she was in, left her to go to speak to his
Men, who brought back one of those that belong'd to _Don Alvaro_, by
whose Confession he found the truth: He pardon'd him, thinking not fit
to punish him, who obey'd a Man whom the Weakness of his Father had
render'd powerful.
Afterwards they conducted _Agnes_ back to _Coimbra_, where her Adventure
began to make a great Noise: the Princess was ready to die with Despair,
and at first thought it was only a continuation of the design this fair
Maid had of retiring; but some Women that served her having told the
Princess, that she was carried away by Violence, _Constantia_ made her
Complaint to the King, who regarded her not at all.
'Madam, said he to her, let this fatal Plague remove it self, who takes
from you the Heart of your Husband; and without afflicting your self for
her absence, bless Heaven and me for it.'
The generous Princess took _Agnes's_ part with a great deal of Courage,
and was then disputing her defence with the King, when _Don Pedro_
arrived at _Coimbra_.
The first Object that met the Prince's Eyes was _Don Alvaro_, who was
passing thro' one of the Courts of the Palace, amidst a Croud of
Courtiers, whom his Favour with the King drew after him. This sight made
_Don Pedro_ rage; but that of the Princess and _Agnes_ caus'd in
_Alvaro_ another sort of Emotion: He easily divin'd, that it was _Don
Pedro_, who had taken her from his Men, and, if his Fury had acted what
it would, it might have produc'd very sad effects.
'_Don Alvaro_, said the Prince to him, is it thus you make use of the
Authority which the King my Father hath given you? Have you receiv'd
Employments and Power from him, for no other end but to do these base
Actions, and to commit Rapes on Ladies? Are you ignorant how the
Princess interests her self in all that concerns this Maid? And do you
not know the tender and affectionate Esteem she has for her.' No,
replied _Don Alvaro_, (with an Insolence that had like to have put the
Prince past all patience) 'I am not ignorant of it, nor of the Interest
your Heart takes in her.' 'Base and treacherous as thou art, replied the
Prince, neither the Favour which thou hast so much abused, nor the
Insolence which makes thee speak this, should hinder me from punishing
thee, wert thou worthy of my Sword; but there are other ways to humble
thy Pride, and 'tis not fit for such an Arm as mine to seek so base an
Employment to punish such a Slave as thou art.'
_Don Pedro_ went away at these Words, and left _Alvaro_ in a Rage, which
is not to be express'd; despairing to see himself defeated in an
Enterprize he thought so sure; and at the Contempt the Prince shewed
him, he promis'd himself to sacrifice all to his Revenge.
Tho' the King lov'd his Son, he was so prepossessed against his Passion,
that he could not pardon him what he had done, and condemn'd him as much
for this last act of Justice, in delivering _Agnes_, as if it had been
the greatest of Crimes.
_Elvira_, whom the sweetness of Hope flatter'd some moments, saw the
return of _Agnes_ with a sensible Displeasure, which suffer'd her to
think of nothing but irritating her Brother.
In fine, the Prince saw the King, but instead of being receiv'd by him
with a Joy due to the success of his Journey, he appear'd all sullen and
out of humour. After having paid him his first Respects, and given him
an exact account of what he had done, he spoke to him about the Violence
committed against the Person of _Agnes de Castro_, and complain'd to him
of it in the Name of the Princess, and of his own: 'You ought to be
silent in this Affair, replied the King; and the Motive which makes you
speak is so shameful for you, that I sigh and blush at it. What is it to
you, if this Maid, whose Presence is troublesome to me, be removed
hence, since 'tis I that desire it?' 'But, Sir, interrupted the Prince,
what necessity is there of employing Force, Artifice, and the Night,
when the least of your Orders had been sufficient? _Agnes_ would
willingly have obey'd you; and if she continue at _Coimbra_, it is
perhaps against her Will: but be it as it will, Sir, _Constantia_ is
offended, and if were not for fear of displeasing you, (the only thing
that retains me) the Ravisher should not have gone unpunished.' 'How
happy are you, replied the King, smiling with disdain, in making use of
the Name of _Constantia_ to uphold the Interest of your Heart! You think
I am ignorant of it, and that this unhappy Princess looks on the Injury
you do her with Indifference. Never speak to me more of _Agnes_, (with a
Tone very severe.) Content your self, that I pardon what's past, and
think maturely of the Considerations I have for _Don Alvaro_, when you
would design any thing against him.' 'Yes, Sir, replied the Prince with
fierceness, I will speak to you no more of _Agnes_; but _Constantia_ and
I will never suffer, that she should be any more expos'd to the
Insolence of your Favourite.' The King had like to have broke out into a
Rage at this Discourse: but he had yet a rest of Prudence left that
hinder'd him. 'Retire (said he to _Don Pedro_) and go make Reflections
on what my Power can do, and what you owe me.'
During this Conversation, _Agnes_ was receiving from the Princess, and
from all the Ladies of the Court, great Expressions of Joy and
Friendship: _Constantia_ saw again her Husband, with a great deal of
satisfaction: and far from being sorry at what he had lately done for
_Agnes_, she privately return'd him thanks for it, and still was the
same towards him, notwithstanding all the Jealousy which was endeavour'd
to be inspir'd in her.
_Don Alvaro_, who found in his Sister a Maliciousness worthy of his
trust, did not conceal his Fury from her. After she had made vain
attempts to moderate it, in blotting _Agnes_ out of his Heart, seeing
that his Disease was incurable, she made him understand, that so long as
_Constantia_ should not be jealous, there were no hopes: That if _Agnes_
should once be suspected by her, she would not fail of abandoning her,
and that then it would be easy to get Satisfaction, the Prince being now
so proud of _Constantia's_ Indulgency. In giving this Advice to her
Brother, she promis'd to serve him effectually; and having no need of
any body but her self to perform ill things, she recommended _Don
Alvaro_ to manage well the King.
Four Years were pass'd in that melancholy Station, and the Princess,
besides her first dead Child, and _Ferdinando_, who was still living,
had brought two Daughters into the World.
Some days after _Don Pedro's_ return, _Elvira_, who was most dextrous in
the Art of well-governing any wicked Design, did gain one of the
Servants who belong'd to _Constantia's_ Chamber. She first spoke her
fair, then overwhelm'd her with Presents and Gifts; and finding in her
as ill a Disposition as in her self, she readily resolv'd to employ her.
After she was sure of her, she compos'd a Letter, which was after writ
over again in an unknown Hand, which she deposited in that Maid's Hands,
that she might deliver to _Constantia_ with the first Opportunity,
telling her, that _Agnes_ had drop'd it. This was the Substance of it:
_I Employ not my own Hand to write to you, for Reasons that I shall
acquaint you with. How happy am I to have overcome all your
Scruples! And what Happiness shall I find in the Progress of our
Intrigue! The whole Course of my Life shall continually represent to
you the Sincerity of my Affections; pray think on the secret
Conversation that I require of you: I dare not speak to you in
publick, therefore let me conjure you here, by all that I have
suffer'd, to come to-night to the Place appointed, and speak to me
no more of +Constantia+; for she must be content with my Esteem,
since my Heart can be only yours._
The unfaithful _Portuguese_ serv'd _Elvira_ exactly to her Desires; and
the very next day seeing _Agnes_ go out from the Princess, she carry'd
_Constantia_ the Letter; which she took, and found there what she was
far from imagining: Tenderness never produc'd an Effect more full of
grief, than what it made her suffer. 'Alas! they are both culpable,
(said she, sighing) and in spite of the Defence my Heart would make for
'em, my Reason condemns 'em. Unhappy Princess, the sad subject of the
Capriciousness of Fortune! Why dost not thou die, since thou hast not a
Heart of Honour to revenge it self? O _Don Pedro_! why did you give me
your Hand, without your Heart? And thou, fair, and ungrateful! wert thou
born to be the Misfortune of my Life, and perhaps the only cause of my
Death?' After having given some Moments to the Violence of her Grief,
she called the Maid, who brought her the Letter, commanding her to speak
of it to no body, and to suffer no one to enter into her Chamber.
She consider'd then of that Prince with more liberty, whose Soul she was
not able to touch with the least Tenderness; and of the cruel Fair One
that had betray'd her: Yet, even while her Soul was upon the Rack, she
was willing to excuse 'em, and ready to do all she could for _Don
Pedro_; at least, she made a firm Resolution, not to complain of him.
_Elvira_ was not long without being inform'd of what had pass'd, nor of
the Melancholy of the Princess, from whom she hop'd all she desir'd.
_Agnes_, far from foreseeing this Tempest, return'd to _Constantia_; and
hearing of her Indisposition, pass'd the rest of the Day at her
Chamber-door, that she might from time to time learn news of her Health:
for she was not suffer'd to come in, at which _Agnes_ was both surpriz'd
and troubled. The Prince had the same Destiny, and was astonish'd at an
Order which ought to have excepted him.
The next day _Constantia_ appear'd, but so alter'd, that 'twas not
difficult to imagine what she had suffer'd. _Agnes_ was the most
impatient to approach her, and the Princess could not forbear weeping,
They were both silent for some time, and _Constantia_ attributed this
silence of _Agnes_ to some Remorse which she felt: and this unhappy Maid
being able to hold no longer; 'Is it possible, Madam, (said she) that
two Days should have taken from me all the Goodness you had for me? What
have I done? And for what do you punish me?' The Princess regarded her
with a languishing Look, and return'd her no Answer but Sighs. _Agnes_,
offended with this reserve, went out with very great Dissatisfaction and
Anger; which contributed to her being thought criminal. The Prince came
in immediately after, and found _Constantia_ more disorder'd than usual,
and conjur'd her in a most obliging manner to take care of her Health:
_The greatest good for me_ (said she) _is not the Continuation of my
Life; I should have more care of it if I loved you less: but--_ She
could not proceed; and the Prince, excessively afflicted at her trouble,
sigh'd sadly, without making her any answer, which redoubled her Grief.
Spite then began to mix it self; and all things persuading the Princess
that they made a Sacrifice of her, she would enter into no Explanation
with her Husband, but suffered him to go away without saying any thing
to him.
Nothing is more capable of troubling our Reason, and consuming our
Health, than secret Notions of Jealousy in Solitude.
_Constantia_, who us'd to open her Heart freely to _Agnes_, now
believing she had deceiv'd her, abandon'd her self so absolutely to
Grief, that she was ready to sink under it; she immediately fell sick
with the violence of it, and all the Court was concern'd at this
Misfortune: _Don Pedro_ was truly afflicted at it, but _Agnes_ more than
all the World beside. _Constantia's_ Coldness towards her, made her
continually sigh; and her Distemper created merely by fancy, caus'd her
to reflect on every thing that offer'd it self to her Memory: so that at
last she began even to fear her self, and to reproach her self for what
the Princess suffer'd.
But the Distemper began to be such, that they fear'd _Constantia's_
Death, and she her self began to feel the Approaches of it. This Thought
did not at all disquiet her: she look'd on Death as the only relief from
all her Torments; and regarded the Despair of all that approach'd her
without the least concern.
The King, who lov'd her tenderly, and who knew her Virtue, was
infinitely mov'd at the Extremity she was in. And _Don Alvaro_, who lost
not the least Occasion of making him understand that it was Jealousy
which was the cause of _Constantia's_ Distemper, did but too much
incense him against Criminals, worthy of Compassion. The King was not of
a Temper to conceal his Anger long: 'You give fine Examples, (said he to
the Prince) and such as will render your Memory illustrious! The Death
of _Constantia_ (of which you are only to be accus'd) is the unhappy
Fruit of your guilty Passion. Fear Heaven after this: and behold your
self as a Monster that does not deserve to see the Light. If the
Interest you have in my Blood did not plead for you, what ought you not
to fear from my just Resentment? But what must not imprudent _Agnes_, to
whom nothing ties me, expect from my hands? If _Constantia_ dies, she,
who has the Boldness, in my Court, to cherish a foolish Flame by vain
Hopes, and make us lose the most amiable Princess, whom thou art not
worthy to possess, shall feel the Effects of her Indiscretion.'
_Don Pedro_ knew very well, that _Constantia_ was not ignorant of his
Sentiments for _Agnes_; but he knew also with what Moderation she
receiv'd it: He was very sensible of the King's Reproaches; but as his
Fault was not voluntary, and that a commanding Power, a fatal Star, had
forc'd him to love in spite of himself, he appear'd afflicted and
confus'd: 'You condemn me, Sir, (answer'd he) without having well
examin'd me; and if my Intentions were known to you; perhaps you would
not find me so criminal: I would take the Princess for my Judge, whom
you say I sacrifice, if she were in a condition to be consulted. If I am
guilty of any Weakness, her Justice never reproach'd me for it; and my
Tongue never inform'd _Agnes_ of it. But suppose I have committed any
Fault, why would you punish an innocent Lady, who perhaps condemns me
for it as much as you? Ah, Villain! (interrupted the King) she has but
too much favour'd you: You would not have lov'd thus long, had she not
made you some Returns. Sir, (reply'd the Prince, pierced with Grief for
the Outrage that was committed against _Agnes_) you offend a Virtue,
than which nothing can be purer; and those Expressions which break from
your Choler, are not worthy of you. _Agnes_ never granted me any
Favours; I never asked any of her; and I protest to Heaven, I never
thought of any thing contrary to the Duty I owe _Constantia_.'
As they thus argued, one of the Princess's Women came all in Tears to
acquaint _Don Pedro_, that the Princess was in the last Extremities of
Life: 'Go see thy fatal Work, (said the King) and expect from a too-long
patient Father the Usage thou deservest.'
The Prince ran to _Constantia_, whom he found dying, and _Agnes_ in a
swoon, in the Arms of some of the Ladies. What caus'd this double
Calamity, was, that _Agnes_, who could suffer no longer the Indifferency
of the Princess, had conjur'd her to tell her what was her Crime, and
either to take her Life from her, or restore her to her Friendship.
_Constantia_, who found she must die, could no longer keep her secret
Affliction from _Agnes_; and after some Words, which were a Preparation
to the sad Explanation, she shewed her that fatal Billet, which _Elvira_
had caus'd to be written: 'Ah, Madam! (cry'd out the fair _Agnes_, after
having read it) Ah, Madam! how many cruel Inquietudes had you spared me
had you open'd your Heart to me with your wonted Bounty! 'Tis easy to
see that this Letter is counterfeit, and that I have Enemies without
Compassion. Could you believe the Prince so imprudent, to make use of
any other Hand but his own, on an occasion like this? And do you believe
me so simple to keep about me this Testimony of my Shame, with so little
Precaution? You are neither betray'd by your Husband nor me; I attest
Heaven, and those Efforts I have made to leave _Coimbra_. Alas, my dear
Princess, how little have you known her, whom you have so much honoured?
Do not believe that when I have justify'd my self, I will have any more
Communication with the World: No, no; there will be no Retreat far
enough from hence for me. I will take care to hide this unlucky Face,
where it shall be sure to do no more harm.'
The Princess touched at this Discourse, and the Tears of _Agnes_,
press'd her hand, which she held in hers; and fixing Looks upon her
capable of moving Pity in the most insensible Souls, 'If I have
committed any Offence, my dear _Agnes_, (answer'd she) Death, which I
expect in a moment, shall revenge it. I ought also to protest to you,
That I have not ceas'd loving you, and that I believe every thing you
have said, giving you back my most tender Affections.'
'Twas at this time that the Grief, which equally oppress'd 'em, put the
Princess into such an Extremity, that they sent for the Prince. He came,
and found himself almost without Life or Motion at this sight. And what
secret Motive soever might call him to the aid of _Agnes_, 'twas to
_Constantia_ he ran. The Princess, who finding her last Moments drawing
on, by a cold Sweat that cover'd her all over; and finding she had no
more business with Life, and causing those Persons she most suspected to
retire, 'Sir, (said she to _Don Pedro_) if I abandon Life without
regret, it is not without Trouble that I part with you. But, Prince, we
must vanquish when we come to die; and I will forget my self wholly, to
think of nothing but of you. I have no Reproaches to make against you,
knowing that 'tis Inclination that disposes Hearts, and not Reason.
_Agnes_ is beautiful enough to inspire the most ardent Passion, and
virtuous enough to deserve the first Fortunes in the World. I ask her,
once more, pardon for the Injustice I have done her, and recommend her
to you, as a Person most dear to me. Promise me, my dear Prince, before
I expire, to give her my Place in your Throne: it cannot be better
fill'd: you cannot chuse a Princess more perfect for your People, nor a
better Mother for our little Children. And you my dear and faithful
_Agnes_ (pursu'd she) listen not to a Virtue too scrupulous, that may
make any opposition to the Prince of _Portugal_: Refuse him not a Heart
of which he is worthy; and give him that Friendship which you had for
me, with that which is due to his Merit. Take care of my little
_Fernando_, and the two young Princesses: let them find me in you, and
speak to them sometimes of me. Adieu, live both of you happy, and
receive my last Embraces.'
The afflicted _Agnes_, who had recover'd a little her Forces, lost them
again a second time; Her Weakness was follow'd with Convulsions so
vehement, that they were afraid of her Life; but _Don Pedro_ never
removed from _Constantia_: 'What, Madam (said he) you will leave me
then; and you think 'tis for my Good. Alas, _Constantia_! if my Heart
has committed an Outrage against you, your Virtue has sufficiently
revenged you on me in spite of you. Can you think me so barbarous?'--As
he was going on, he saw Death shut the Eyes of the most generous
Princess for ever; and he was within a very little of following her.
But what Loads of Grief did this bring upon _Agnes_, when she found in
that Interval, wherein Life and Death were struggling in her Soul, that
_Constantia_ was newly expir'd! She would then have taken away her own
Life, and have let her Despair fully appear.
At the noise of the Death of the Princess, the Town and the Palace were
all in Tears. _Elvira_, who saw then _Don Pedro_ free to engage himself,
repented of having contributed to the Death of _Constantia_; and
thinking her self the Cause of it, promis'd in her Griefs never to
pardon herself.
She had need of being guarded several days together; during which time
she fail'd not incessantly to weep. And the Prince gave all those days
to deepest Mourning. But when the first Emotions were past, those of his
Love made him feel that he was still the same.
He was a long time without seeing _Agnes_; but this Absence of his
served only to make her appear the more charming when he did see her.
_Don Alvaro_, who was afraid of the Liberty of the Prince, made new
Efforts to move _Agnes de Castro_, who was now become insensible to
every thing but Grief. _Elvira_, who was willing to make the best of the
Design she had begun, consulted all her Womens Arts, and the Delicacy of
her Wit, to revive the Flames with which the Prince once burnt for her:
But his Constancy was bounded, and it was _Agnes_ alone that was to
reign over his Heart. She had taken a firm Resolution, since the Death
of _Constantia_, to pass the rest of her Days in a solitary Retreat. In
spite of the precaution she took to hide this Design, the Prince was
informed of it, and did all he was able to dispose his Constancy and
Fortitude to it. He thought himself stronger than he really was; but
after he had well consulted his Heart, he found but too well how
necessary the Presence of _Agnes_ was to him. 'Madam (said he to her one
day, with a Heart big, and his Eyes in Tears) which Action of my Life
has made you determine my Death? Tho' I never told you how much I loved
you, yet I am persuaded you are not ignorant of it. I was constrained to
be silent during some Years for your sake, for _Constantia's_, and my
own; but 'tis not possible for me to put this force upon my Heart for
ever: I must once at least tell you how it languishes. Receive then the
Assurances of a Passion, full of Respect and Ardour, with an offer of my
Fortune, which I wish not better, but for your advantage.'
_Agnes_ answer'd not immediately to these words, but with abundance of
Tears; which having wiped away, and beholding _Don Pedro_ with an air
which made him easily comprehend she did not agree with his Desires; 'If
I were capable of the Weakness with which you'd inspire me, you'd be
obliged to punish me for it: What! (said she) _Constantia_ is scarce
bury'd, and you would have me offend her! No, my Prince (added she with
more Softness) no, no, she whom you have heap'd so many Favours on, will
not call down the Anger of Heaven, and the Contempt of Men upon her, by
an Action so perfidious. Be not obstinate then in a Design in which I
will never shew you Favour. You owe to _Constantia_, after her Death,
a Fidelity that may justify you: and I, to repair the Ills I have made
her suffer ought to shun all converse with you.' 'Go, Madam (reply'd the
Prince, growing pale) go, and expect the News of my Death; in that part
of the World, whither your Cruelty shall lead you, the News shall follow
close after; you shall quickly hear of it: and I will go seek it in
those Wars which reign among my Neighbours.'
These Words made the fair _Agnes de Castro_ perceive that her Innocency
was not so great as she imagined, and that her Heart interested it self
in the Preservation of _Don Pedro_: 'You ought, Sir, to preserve your
Life (reply'd _Agnes_) for the sake of the little Prince and Princesses,
which _Constantia_ has left you. Would you abandon their Youth
(continued she, with a tender Tone) to the Cruelty of _Don Alvaro_?
Live! Sir, live! and let the unhappy _Agnes_ be the only Sacrifice.'
'Alas, cruel Maid! (interrupted _Don Pedro_) Why do you command me to
live, if I cannot live with you? Is it an effect of your Hatred?' 'No,
Sir, (reply'd _Agnes_) I do not hate you; and I wish to God that I could
be able to defend my self against the Weakness with which I find my self
possess'd. Oblige me to say no more, Sir: you see my Blushes, interpret
them as you please: but consider yet, that the less Aversion I find I
have to you, the more culpable I am; and that I ought no more to see, or
speak to you. In fine, Sir, if you oppose my Retreat, I declare to you,
that _Don Alvaro_, as odious as he is to me, shall serve for a Defence
against you; and that I will sooner consent to marry a Man I abhor, than
to favour a Passion that cost _Constantia_ her Life.' 'Well then,
_Agnes_ (reply'd the Prince, with Looks all languishing and dying)
follow the Motions which barbarous Virtue inspires you with; take these
Measures you judge necessary against an unfortunate Lover, and enjoy the
Glory of having cruelly refused me.'
At these Words he went away; and troubled as _Agnes_ was, she would not
stay him: Her Courage combated with her Grief, and she thought now, more
than ever, of departing.
'Twas difficult for her to go out of _Coimbra_; and not to defer what
appear'd to her so necessary, she went immediately to the Apartment of
the King, notwithstanding the Interest of _Don Alvaro_. The King
received her with a Countenance severe, not being able to consent to
what she demanded: _You shall not go hence, +(said he)+ and if you are
wise, you shall enjoy here with +Don Alvaro+ both my Friendship and my
Favour. I have taken another Resolution (+answer'd+ Agnes) and the World
has no part in it. You will accept +Don Pedro (reply'd the King)+ his
Fortune is sufficient to satisfy an ambitious Maid: but you will not
succeed +Constantia+, who lov'd you so tenderly; and +Spain+ has
Princesses enough to fill up part of the Throne which I shall leave him.
Sir, (+reply'd+ Agnes, +piqu'd at this Discourse+) if I had a
Disposition to love, and a Design to marry, perhaps the Prince might be
the only Person on whom I would fix it: And you know, if my Ancestors
did not possess Crowns, yet they were worthy to wear 'em. But let it be
how it will, I am resolved to depart, and to remain no longer a Slave in
a Place to which I came free._
This bold Answer, which shew'd the Character of _Agnes_, anger'd and
astonished the King. _You shall go when we think fit +(reply'd he)+ and
without being a Slave at +Coimbra+, you shall attend our order._
_Agnes_ saw she must stay, and was so griev'd at it, that she kept her
Chamber several days, without daring to inform herself of the Prince;
and this Retirement spared her the Affliction of being visited by _Don
Alvaro_.
During this, _Don Pedro_ fell sick, and was in so great danger, that
there was a general apprehension of his Death. _Agnes_ did not in the
least doubt, but it was an effect of his Discontent: she thought at
first she had Strength and Resolution enough to see him die, rather than
to favour him; but had she reflected a little, she had soon been
convinc'd to the contrary. She found not in her Heart that cruel
Constancy she thought there so well established: She felt Pains and
Inquietude, shed Tears, made Wishes; and, in fine, discover'd that she
lov'd.
'Twas impossible to see the Heir of the Crown, a Prince that deserved so
well, even at the point of Death, without a general Affliction. The
People who loved him, pass'd whole days at the Palace-gate to hear News
of him: The Court was all over-whelm'd with Grief.
_Don Alvaro_ knew very well how to conceal a malicious Joy, under an
Appearance of Sadness. _Elvira_, full of Tenderness, and perhaps of
Remorse, suffer'd also on her side. The King, altho' he condemned the
Love of his Son, yet still had a Tenderness for him, and could not
resolve to lose him. _Agnes de Castro_, who knew the Cause of his
Distemper, expected the End of it with strange Anxieties: In fine, after
a Month had pass'd away in Fears, they began to have a little hopes of
his Recovery. The Prince and _Don Alvaro_ were the only Persons that
were not glad of it: But _Agnes_ rejoic'd enough for all the rest.
_Don Pedro_, seeing that he must live whether he wou'd or no, thought of
nothing but passing his days in melancholy and discontent: As soon as he
was in a condition to walk, he sought out the most solitary Places, and
gain'd so much upon his own Weakness, to go every where, where _Agnes_
was not; but her Idea followed him always, and his Memory, faithful to
represent her to him with all her Charms, render'd her always dangerous.
One day, when they had carry'd him into the Garden, he sought out a
Labyrinth which was at the farthest part of it, to hide his Melancholy,
during some hours; there he found the sad _Agnes_, whom Grief, little
different from his, had brought thither; the sight of her whom he
expected not, made him tremble: She saw by his pale and meagre Face the
remains of his Distemper; his Eyes full of Languishment troubled her,
and tho' her Desire was so great to have fled from him, an unknown Power
stopt her, and 'twas impossible for her to go.
After some Moments of Silence, which many Sighs interrupted, _Don Pedro_
rais'd himself from the Place where his Weakness had forced him to sit;
he made _Agnes_ see, as he approach'd her, the sad Marks of his
Sufferings: and not content with the Pity he saw in her Eyes, _You have
resolved my Death then, cruel +Agnes+, +(said he)+ my desire was the
same with yours; but Heaven has thought fit to reserve me for other
Misfortunes, and I see you again, as unhappy, but more in love than
ever._
There was no need of these Words to move _Agnes_ to compassion, the
Languishment of the Prince spoke enough; and the Heart of this fair Maid
was but too much disposed to yield it self: She thought then that
_Constantia_ ought to be satisfy'd; Love, which combated for _Don
Pedro_, triumphed over Friendship, and found that happy Moment, for
which the Prince of _Portugal_, had so long sighed.
_Do not reproach me, for that which has cost me more than you, Sir,
+(replied she)+ and do not accuse a Heart, which is neither ingrateful
nor barbarous: and I must tell you, that I love you. But now I have made
you that Confession, what is it farther that you require of me?_ _Don
Pedro_, who expected not a Change so favourable, felt a double
Satisfaction; and falling at the Feet of _Agnes_, he express'd more by
the Silence his Passion created, than he could have done by the most
eloquent Words.
After having known all his good Fortune, he then consulted with the
amiable _Agnes_, what was to be feared from the King; they concluded
that the cruel Billet, which so troubled the last days of _Constantia_,
could come from none but _Elvira_ and _Don Alvaro_. The Prince, who knew
that his Father had searched already an Alliance for him, and was
resolv'd on his Favourite's marrying _Agnes_, conjur'd her so tenderly
to prevent these Persecutions, by consenting to a secret Marriage, that,
after having a long time consider'd, she at last consented. _I will do
what you will have me_ (said she) _tho' I presage nothing but fatal
Events from it; all my Blood turns to Ice, when I think of this
Marriage, and the Image of +Constantia+ seems to hinder me from
doing it._
The amorous Prince surmounted all her Scruples, and separated himself
from _Agnes_, with a Satisfaction which soon redoubled his Forces; he
saw her afterward with the Pleasure of a Mystery: And the Day of their
Union being arrived, _Don Gill_, Bishop of _Guarda_, performed the
Ceremony of the Marriage, in the Presence of several Witnesses, faithful
to _Don Pedro_, who saw him Possessor of all the Charms of the fair
_Agnes_.
She lived not the more peaceable for belonging to the Prince of
_Portugal_; her Enemies, who continually persecuted her, left her not
without Troubles: and the King, whom her Refusal inrag'd, laid his
absolute Commands on her to marry _Don Alvaro_, with Threats to force
her to it, if she continu'd rebellious.
The Prince took loudly her part; and this, join'd to the Refusal he made
of marrying the Princess of _Arragon_, caus'd Suspicions of the Truth in
the King his Father. He was seconded by those that were too much
interested, not to unriddle this Secret. _Don Alvaro_ and his Sister
acted with so much care, gave so many Gifts, and made so many Promises,
that they discover'd the secret Engagements of _Don Pedro_ and _Agnes_.
The King wanted but little of breaking out into all the Rage and Fury so
great a Disappointment could inspire him with, against the Princess.
_Don Alvaro_, whose Love was changed into the most violent Hatred,
appeased the first Transports of the King, by making him comprehend,
that if they could break the Marriage of 'em, that would not be a
sufficient Revenge; and so poison'd the Soul of the King, to consent to
the Death of _Agnes_.
The barbarous _Don Alvaro_ offered his Arm for this terrible Execution,
and his Rage was Security for the Sacrifice.
The King, who thought the Glory of his Family disgraced by this
Alliance, and his own in particular in the Procedure of his Son, gave
full Power to this Murderer, to make the innocent _Agnes_ a Victim to
his Rage.
It was not easy to execute this horrid Design: Tho' the Prince saw
_Agnes_ but in secret, yet all his Cares were still awake for her, and
he was marry'd to her above a Year, before _Don Alvaro_ could find out
an opportunity so long sought for.
The Prince diverted himself but little, and very rarely went far from
_Coimbra_; but on a Day, an unfortunate Day, and marked out by Heaven
for an unheard-of and horrid Assassination, he made a Party to hunt at a
fine House, which the King of _Portugal_ had near the City.
_Agnes_ lov'd every thing that gave the Prince satisfaction; but a
secret Trouble made her apprehend some Misfortune in this unhappy
Journey. _Sir_, (said she to him, alarm'd, without knowing the Reason
why) _I tremble, seeing you today as it were designed the last of my
Life: Preserve your self, my dear Prince; and tho' the Exercise you take
be not very dangerous, beware of the least Hazards, and bring me back
all that I trust with you. Don Pedro_, who had never found her so
handsome and so charming before, embraced her several times, and went
out of the Palace with his Followers, with a Design not to return till
the next Day.
He was no sooner gone, but the cruel _Don Alvaro_ prepared himself for
the Execution he had resolv'd on; he thought it of that importance, that
it required more Hands than his own, and so chose for his Companions
_Don Lopez Pacheo_, and _Pedro Cuello_, two Monsters like himself, whose
Cruelty he was assur'd of by the Presents he had made 'em.
They waited the coming of the Night, and the lovely _Agnes_ was in her
first Sleep, which was the last of her Life, when these Assassins
approach'd her Bed. Nothing made resistance to _Don Alvaro_, who could
do every thing, and whom the blackest Furies introduced to _Agnes_; she
waken'd, and opening her Curtains, saw, by the Candle burning in her
Chamber, the Ponyard with which _Don Alvaro_ was armed; he having his
Face not cover'd, she easily knew him, and forgetting herself, to think
of nothing but the Prince: _Just Heaven_ (said she, lifting up her fine
Eyes) _if you will revenge +Constantia+, satisfy your self with my Blood
only, and spare that of_ Don Pedro. The barbarous Man that heard her,
gave her not time to say more; and finding he could never (by all he
could do by Love) touch the Heart of the fair _Agnes_, he pierc'd it
with his Ponyard: his Accomplices gave her several Wounds, tho' there
was no necessity of so many to put an end to an innocent Life.
What a sad Spectacle was this for those who approach'd her Bed the next
day! And what dismal News was this to the unfortunate Prince of
_Portugal_! He returned to _Coimbra_ at the first report of this
Adventure, and saw what had certainly cost him his Life, if Men could
die of Grief. After having a thousand times embraced the bloody Body of
_Agnes_, and said all that a just Despair could inspire him with, he ran
like a Mad-man into the Palace, demanding the Murderers of his Wife, of
things that could not hear him. In fine, he saw the King, and without
observing any respect, he gave a loose to his Resentment: after having
rail'd a long time, overwhelm'd with Grief, he fell into a Swoon, which
continu'd all that day. They carry'd him into his Apartment: and the
King, believing that his Misfortune would prove his Cure, repented not
of what he had permitted.
_Don Alvaro_, and the two other Assassins, quitted _Coimbra_. This
Absence of theirs made 'em appear guilty of the Crime; for which the
afflicted Prince vow'd a speedy Vengeance to the Ghost of his lovely
_Agnes_, resolving to pursue them to the uttermost part of the Universe;
He got a considerable number of Men together, sufficient to have made
resistance, even to the King of _Portugal_ himself, if he should yet
take the part of the Murderers: with these he ravaged the whole Country,
as far as the _Duero_ Waters, and carry'd on a War, even till the Death
of the King, continually mixing Tears with Blood, which he gave to the
revenge of his dearest _Agnes_.
Such was the deplorable End of the unfortunate Love of _Don Pedro_ of
_Portugal_, and of the fair _Agnes de Castro_, whose Remembrance he
faithfully preserv'd in his Heart, even upon the Throne, to which he
mounted by the Right of his Birth, after the Death of the King.
* * * * *
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