Page:Famous history of the two unfortunate lovers, Hero & Leander (1).pdf/19

19 for sometime like a man beside himself, but resolving to hazard all for his mistress, he concluded to appear like himself, and so in the most rich attire, which he sent for out of Greece, he appeared one of the most goodly persons that had ever been seen at the court; so that all admired who this stranger should be, till Hero’s father one day casting his eyes upon him as he passed by, ran to him with tears in his eyes, crying out, O my deliverer and good angel, have I found you again! How is it that you left us after you had saved us from a death that was so near us? Leander made modest excuses on this account, saying, It was no more than in honour he ought to have done. The old man was still more abundantly transported when he knew it was prince Leander, and took him to the palace, shewed him all the choice rarities, and made great feasting for several days, desiring him to demand whatever was in his power to oblige him with, and he would grant it immediately.

Leander thinking now was the time, said, sir, for all the favours you have done me, and the offers you have made me, I return you my most humble thanks; there is but one thing in the world I desire of you, and if I could but think you would grant it, I would freely demand it. Demand then, said he. It is, said Leander, with your leave, to serve the princess Hero. Armelious started and looked pale, protesting that had he not already promised her to Altemansor, there was no man under heaven he could more gladly bestow her on, than Leander, whose fame and worth had spread over all Asia and Europe; but having sworn to give her him before the high altar, he could not go back from his oath; or if he should, he being powerful in those parts, would take her by force,