Sources:
Histoire des intrigues galantes de la reine Christine de Suede: et de sa cour, pendant son sejour à Rome, pages 61 to 83, by Christian Gottfried Franckenstein, 1697
The history of the intrigues & gallantries of Christina, Queen of Sweden, and of her court whilst she was at Rome faithfully render'd into English from the French original, pages 57 to 73, translated by Philip Hollingworth, 1697 (1927 edition in second link)
Above: Kristina.
The account:
Entre les Cardinaux qui frequentoient la loge de la Reine, le Cardinal Benoit Odescalchi n'y manqua jamais un soir, durant les cinq années que la Reine maintint sa loge au theatre, mais aprés la creation du même Cardinal au Pontificat, changeant d'humeur & de conduite tout d'un coup, il entreprit de détruire le theatre où il avoit coûtume de prendre tant de plaisir, & pour en venir plus facilement à bout, il fit un edit rigoureux qui subsiste encore, par lequel il defendit aux femmes de reciter sur le theatre, aimant mieux que de jeunes musiciens joüassent leurs rôles, revêtus de leurs habits, contre l'expresse defense de la Sainte Ecriture, qui defend aux hommes de porter les habits des femmes, parce que c'est une abomination devant Dieu. La nouveauté de ce spectacle y attiroit tout le monde, & on avoit peine a y entrer pour son argent, car il y avoit pour lors un grand concours d'étrangers de marque, & ils avoient apporté les modes les plus nouvelles. Les Cavaliers Romains les imitérent, & se rendirent tous propres, & galans. Un entr'autres de la premiere qualité, les surpassoit en magnificence; il étoit d'une riche taille, les traits du visage bien faits, les yeux noirs, & vifs autant qu'une des plus belles Dames de Rome, il avoit la phisionomie heureuse, une parure de cheveux qui le rendoit un des plus beaux hommes d'Italie, il chantoit, & joüoit parfaitement bien de toutes sortes d'Instrumens, grand amateur de la poesie, & qui même a composé de trés beaux ouvrages, heureux si avec tous ces avantages il eût voulu respondre aux desirs des Dames, puis qu'il y en eut plus d'une qui le voulut mettre à l'epreuve, mais il ne répondit point à leur attente, comme nous le dirons bientôt. Il étoit alors à la fleur de son âge, courant sa 23. année, le sang lui boüilloit dans les veines, & le faisoit paroître tout esprit. La Reine ayant apperçeu ce jeune Seigneur dans une loge à côté de la sienne, dans le tems qu'il lui faisoit une profonde revérence, elle sentit une émotion extraordinaire en le regardant, & ayant appris son rang, & son merite personnel, cela augmenta l'estime que cette Princesse commençoit à avoir pour lui; & elle ne pouvoit s'empêcher de jetter des œillades sur la loge de tems en tems. Un valet de chambre de sa Majesté qui étoit un vieux routier dans les intrigues amoureuses, entendant un jour dire à la Reine tant de biens du jeune Prince, prit le tems qu'elle se vouloit faire couper les cheveux pour lui dire, «Madame le Prince Don Benigne», c'étoit le nom de ce jeune Seigneur, a un valet de chambre perruquier qui coupe les cheveux à merveille. La Reine ravie d'avoir occasion de dire du bien d'une personne pour qui elle se sentoit une si forte inclination, fit demander ce perruquier, qui ne manqua pas d'exécuter ses ordres, selon son desir; elle de son côté le fit regaler de dix pistolles, aprés avoir parlé avantageusement de son maître. L'Officier de la Reine se trouvant depuis chez le Prince, il lui temoigna la joye qu'il avoit de ce que sa Majesté l'avoit honnoré en se servant d'un de ses gens, à quoy l'Officier repondit en peu de mots, exagérant avec des expressions choisies, les grandes qualitez de la Reine, le Prince rencherit sur ces loüanges, & sa Majesté sçeut tout ce qu'on avoit dit d'avantageux d'elle, & en fut ravie; Une autrefois elle envoya demander au Prince une de ses perruques, elle l'assaya, & s'en fit faire une courte de la même couleur, blonde & cendrée, qu'elle porta plusieurs jours. Quand la Reine étoit en son particulier avec ses filles, on n'entendoit dire que des loüanges de Don Benigne, elle n'avoit plus d'autre divertissement que celuy là. Une de ses filles, qui étoit alors sa favorite, trés belle & bien-faite, c'étoit la Signora Octavia, ayant entendu si souvent la Reine loüer ce jeune Prince, en devint amoureuse, mais n'osant declarer sa passion, elle se consumoit en devenant réveuse, & languissante. La Reine qui souffroit de la voir dans cette langueur sans en sçavoir la cause, l'obligea d'aller prendre l'air de la Campagne. Octavia choisit d'aller à Frescati, comme au lieu le plus delicieux qu'il y ait autour de Rome, ou la plûpart des Cardinaux, & Cavaliers Romains ont des Vignes ou maisons de plaisance, qui semblent être des Palais enchantez. Celui de Don Benigne n'étoit pas un des moins considérables, & il y étoit actuellement joüissant des plaisirs de la belle saison du printems. La Reine donna à Octavia deux caleches couvertes & deux laquais; Octavie mena avec elle sa mere, sa sœur, & quelques autres femmes, & elle voulut avoir pour son pourvoyeur, ce valet de chambre intriguant qui avoit été employé dans les amours de la Reine. En arrivant à Frescati, on alla descendre chez un particulier, pour n'incommoder personne; le train s'arréta aux ecuries de la delicieuse Vigne Aldobrandina, où il fut bien reçeu à cause des livrées de la Reine, par les ordres de Madame la Princesse de Rossano. Aikelmer, c'est le nom du pourvoyeur, eût soin de faire appréter le diner, cependant l'escadron coiffé alla à la messe aux Capucins; On rencontra en chemin Don Benigne comme par hazard, Octavia fit semblant de se détourner, pour ne pas faire paroître une petite rougeur qui lui vint au visage; quoy que cela la rendît plus belle. Il n'y eût qu'un simple salut de part & d'autre, & aprés quelques tours de promenade, on revint au logis pour diner, où l'on ne trouva pas grand apprest, car on est fort sobre en Italie, quand on vit à ses dépens. On avoit neantmoins bon appetit & l'on fit quelques reproches à Aikelmer de son êpargne. Sur ces entrefaites on vit venir un valet de pied du Prince, qui conduisoit un homme chargé d'un grand bassin de Vermeil doré, plein de viandes trés exquises, lequel demanda à parler au Conducteur. Aikelmer se presenta, & le valet de pied lui dit que Monsieur le Prince Don Benigne lui envoyoit cette petite bagatelle, pour se réjoüir avec sa troupe, & pour boire à sa santé. Dans le même tems un autre homme parût chargé de douze bouteilles d'un vin trés-delicat. Le Regale fut reçeu tres-agreablement; on remercia Monsieur le Prince en des termes les plus soumis, & plains de reconnoissance: Octavia jetta une œillade sur le conducteur qui lui fit signe que le regale étoit à cause d'elle. Aprés s'être bien rejoüi & reposé pendant quelques heures, on fit partie d'aller à la vigne Aldobrandina où de Belvedére, autant pour se promener que pour voir les merveilleuses cascades, ou jets d'eau, qui font l'admiration des étrangers. En passant par une voute qui conduisoit à la premiere terrasse pour eviter le soleil, on rencontra Don Benigne qui s'y promenoit aussi en compagnie. Aikelmer lui faisant une profonde revérence le remercia de son regale, au nom de sa compagnie, qui partageoit avec lui les obligations que tous avoient à un si genereux Seigneur. Le Prince sourit, & dit que ce n'étoit qu'une bagatelle qui ne meritoit pas qu'on en parlât, qu'il auroit bien offert à ces Dames un appartement dans son Palais, avec toutes les commoditez necessaires, mais qu'il ne l'avoit pas fait, apprehendant de leur être à charge par des civilitez incommodes, & qu'aparamment ces Dames avoient crû être en plus grande liberté que chez lui, où la Reine, & ses Officiers étoient en droit de venir sans façon, quand il plaisoit à sa Majesté. Octavia s'adressant au conducteur lui dit qu'il étoit heureux d'être si consideré de son excellence: Le Prince répondit qu'il avoit de la considération pour tous en genéral. «N'enviez point mon bonheur, Mademoiselle» dit Aikelmer, «il ne tiendra qu'à vous d'être considerée de son excellence, jamais Prince n'a eu tant d'egard pour les Dames que lui, mais pour cette fois je suis en possession de prendre part à ses bontez, comme lui étant serviteur de longue main.» Cela ne se dit qu'en passant, les œillades furent un langage plus passionné que les paroles, & le Prince les quitta alors pour aller rejoindre la compagnie qui étoit déja bien loin. Aprés avoir vû la Vigne, & les cascades, on retourna le même soir à Rome, la Reine voulut sçavoir tout le detail du voyage; la galanterie du Prince lui plut fort, elle crut que ce qu'il en avoit fait étoit à cause d'elle, & on n'eût garde de l'en desabuser. Comme c'étoit la meilleure maîtresse du monde, quand elle étoit de bonne humeur, elle gronda ses filles de n'être pas restées 3 ou 4 jours à la Campagne. Deux jours aprés le Prince revint à Rome, il envoya querir Aikelmer pour lui demander qui étoit cette fille, pour laquelle il s'entoit déja une forte inclination. Aikelmer lui fit sçavoir qui étoit la Signora Ottavia, & la part qu'elle avoit dans la confidence de la Reine, ajoûtant que cette fille étoit charmée de connoître le merite d'un Prince si accompli. Les œillades qu'ils se donnérent depuis dans les rencontres, achevérent de les mettre en parfaite intelligence: les paroles sont rarement mises en œuvre en Italie, neantmoins on mênagea une entrevûe entre ce couple parfait. Mais le Prince qui témoignoit si ardamment le souhaiter, se rallentit tout d'un coup, sachant qu'Octavia y consentoit sans se faire trop prier, quoy qu'elle eût pris des precautions pour ne pas echoüer dans une tête à tête. Quelque reflexion hors de propos détourna le Prince de se trouver au rendez-vous, Octavia en eût un depit inconcevable, l'entremetteur fut confondu, & n'y gagna que la haine de l'un & de l'autre.
D'autre-part, la Reine qui ne connoissoit pas encore le temperament froid du jeune Prince, lui temoignoit par signes & en paroles couvertes, dans l'occasion, qu'il ne tiendroit qu'à lui qu'il fût heureux. Mais on eut beau lui faire des avances, & l'assûrer qu'il pouvoit disposer de la personne de la Reine, dont il possédoit déja le cœur, il ne voulut jamais passer les termes de la galanterie la plus innocente, & plus on franchissoit les obstacles, plus il devenoit reservé, quoy que loin du danger, il témoignât beaucoup d'ardeur pour répondre à la flame de la Reine, qui se desesperoit de son trop de respect & de sa crainte timide, elle n'en pût jamais rien tirer: on lui offrit de lui donner telles seuretez qu'il voudroit, & qu'on feroit même venir la Reine incognito, en tel endroit qu'il lui plairoit, & dont il seroit le maître, cette seule pensée lui fit horreur; Enfin il ne resta à la Reine que la honte de s'être expliquée trop clairement avec lui; la rage de se voir rebutée convertit son amour en une haine implacable, & si elle ne prit pas une vangeance solemnelle du mêpris du Prince, ce fut un effet de son bonheur, tant il est dangereux d'être aimé ou häi des grands.
Si le Prince n'avoit refusé que la Reine seulement, on pourroit dire que la crainte d'avoir un sort pareil à celui du Marquis Monaldeschi l'auroit retenu. Mais il a méprisé les feux de plusieurs autres Dames, qui l'ont accusé d'impuissance, ou d'une timidité indigne de son rang; car dans le monde on n'estime pas un homme qui se contient par un principe de Religion. Nous avons vû comme le courage lui manqua dans son intrigue avec Octavia, & nous allons voir qu'il n'en temoigna pas d'avantage, à l'endroit d'une belle Duchesse, qui avoit toutes les qualitez qu'il faut à une Dame pour se faire aimer. On dit que le Prince Colombier l'avoit aimée peu avant que Don Benigne s'attachât à elle, & qu'il en avoit été fort satisfait. Don Benigne trouva la place vacante, quand il entreprit la conquête du cœur de Diane, car c'est ainsi qu'on appelloit la Duchesse: pour y parvenir, il se servit du portier d'une Communauté nombreuse, qui avoit la victoire pour armes, mais ayant reconnu qu'il n'étoit pas habile en ce manége, il aima mieux y employer un Marchand François demeurant proche de St. Augustin, parce qu'il servoit la Duchesse, & qu'il étoit capable de negocier une intrigue amoureuse. Aprés lui avoir fait mille caresses, il s'ouvrit à lui de son dessein, lui promit Mons & Merveilles, selon la coûtume des amans, & lui laissa entre les mains la conduite de sa bonne fortune. Dés que le confident entra chez la Duchesse, sous pretexte de lui porter une nouvelle etofe de France, il fit semblant de lire un billet, dans le tems qu'elle avoit le dos tourné, mais il se laissa surprendre. La Duchesse lui demanda ce que c'étoit, le marchand qui étoit familier avec elle, lui dit qu'il faisoit la plus agréable lecture du monde, & que c'étoit un billet d'amour de la part de la personne qu'il estimoit le plus. «Je le veux voir» dit Diane, «tenez, Madame», répondit le fin marchand qui ne demandoit pas mieux, «vous serez ma confidente», elle le prit en effet & lût ces mots. «Le Prince Don Benigne vous adore Madame, & m[']a chargé de vous le faire sçavoir, je souhaiterois pour le repos de son amour, que vous l'entendissiez vous même, je suis seur que vous seriez attendrie de sçavoir le mal qu'il souffre pour vous, & si vous m'en donnez la liberté, je vous expliqueray le reste de bouche.» Il faut avoüer que le metier de confident est le plus agréable qu'on puisse penser, pourvû qu'on n'y coure point de risque, car une femme sçait toûjours bon gré à ceux qui lui persuadent qu'elle est aimable. Cette Princesse que la curiosité avoit portée à lire ce billet, croyant que ce fût toute autre chose, demeura surprise de cette nouvelle maniere d'apprendre d'être aimée, elle devint vermeille comme une rose, & fut quelque tems sans parler, avec une confusion qui marquoit l'agitation de son ame. Le Duc son mari entra alors dans la chambre de la Duchesse, pour voir l'etoffe que le marchand avoit apportée, avant que de la faire couper, & voyant la Duchesse toute emuë, il lui demanda si elle n'étoit pas satisfaite d'une si belle etoffe qui lui paroissoit tres-riche. Elle témoigna d'en être contente, mais elle dit qu'elle auroit bien voulu être la seule qui l'eût, parce que la Princesse de Sonino avoit un habit semblable à celui qu'elle s'étoit fait faire auparavant. «Le secret», dit le marchand, «est de prendre toute la piece, car il n'est venu à Rome que celle-là seule assûrement.» «Monsieur Claude a raison» dit le Duc, «& je vous conseillerois d'acheter la piece entiere, si elle n'étoit pas si chere, au reste je croy qu'il vous sera fidele.» «Oüi Monseigneur», dit le marchand, «Madame peut compter que je lui garderay le secret en cela, & en tout autre chose; au bout du compte, 30 pistolles de plus à la mode, & elle sera la seule qui l'aura de long tems.» «Voila un homme admirable» dit ce bon mari, «tenez en comte, Madame, mais faites bien mesurer l'etoffe, avant qu'il l'ecrive sur ses parties.» Il n'y eût rien autre chose de remarquable dans cette premiere entrevuë, & le marchand alla aussi-tôt rendre compte de sa negociation à Don Benigne. Le Prince trouva la declaration ingénieuse, il embrassa le marchand, & dit qu'il avoit bien commencé, le priant de continuer jusqu'à ce qu'il l'eût rendu heureux. Deux jours aprés le marchand retourna chez la Duchesse, pour lui apporter la doublure de son habit, elle étoit dans l'impatience de le revoir, mais par une retenuë propre aux Dames qui veulent garder quelque bienséance, elle attendit qu'il commençât. Etant resté seul avec elle il lui demanda quel effet avoit produit son billet, elle se mit sur un lit de repos, en disant avec affectation, qu'elle n'en avoit tenu aucun compte, «aussi bien» dit elle «je ne me veux pas embarquer avec ce jeune homme qui a trop de fierté, qui presume trop de lui même, & parce qu'il est beau garçon il croit être un Narcisse.» Le marchand l'assûra que le Prince auroit un attachement indissoluble pour elle, & que sa passion ne pouvant être plus grande, son respect & sa fidelité ne seroient pas moindres. Sur ces assûrances, la Duchesse dit au marchand, «je vous prie Monsieur Claude de ne le flatter d'aucune espérance, que je ne l'aye mis à l'epreuve auparavant, car sous pretexte de sauver les apparences, & de garder toutes les mesures necessaires, je verray s'il aura de la persévérance»: Elle fit même connoître au marchand qu'elle avoit quelque inclination pour lui, & qu'il ne tiendroit pas à elle qu'il ne fût heureux. Elle avoit raison & connoissoit parfaitement le personnage, & certes si sa vigueur eût répondu à sa presomption, il avoit dequoy contenter les Dames, neantmoins il étoit encore si novice qu'il croyoit qu'il lui suffît de faire dire à une Dame qu'il étoit amoureux d'elle, pour l'obliger à prendre la même passion pour lui, mais il trouva en la personne de Diane une femme qui sçavoit moriginer les gens, & qui lui apprit à vivre. Un jour Don Benigne étant à Frescati, fut attaqué par trois Dames qui pretendoient être belles, & qui lui firent agréablement la guerre: Une d'entr'elles qui étoit la Marquise Nani, lui dit en raillant, que tout beau, & bien fait qu'il étoit, il avoit trouvé des Dames cruelles, qu'on avoit des nouvelles de ses affaires, & qu'elles étoient obligées à la belle personne à qui il adressoit ses vœux, de le tenir dans le respect pour le Sexe. Il fut piqué au jeu par ces paroles, mais il se retrancha sur son indiférence pour les Dames, neantmoins sa vanité étant excitée, il resolut de tout employer pour se faire aimer de Diane. Il s'y prit assez bien d'abord, car aprés avoir donné quelques marques de persévérance, il fit un present à la Duchesse d'une etoffe de soye à fonds bleu rayée à colomnes d'argent, entourées de tres beaux feüillages, & fleurs d'or & autres d'argent d'un grand prix. Pour cacher au Duc l'endroit d'où venoit ce présent, la Duchesse lui fit accroire que le marchand se contentoit du tiers en argent comptant, & que pour le reste il prendroit du bled & du vin, une somme par mois jusqu'à la fin du payement; le Duc en fut bien aise, car à Rome les grands Seigneurs ont souvent de la difficulté à se defaire de leurs d'enrées, parce qu'ils font valoir leurs biens eux mêmes, n'y ayant point de fermiers qui donnent de l'argent comptant. Alors la Duchesse s'aprivoisa un peu avec Don Benigne: Le Carnaval étant venu le Prince se masquoit souvent & portoit un capot fourré d'hermine, ayant sur le capuchon une manchette à dentelle & un ruban ponceau, qui étoit le signal pour se faire connoître. Diane étoit sur un Balcon dans le Cours à lui faire les doux yeux. Ils se voyoient aux Comedies, & aux Bals où ils dansoient ensemble, cela leur donnoit occasion de se dire de petits mots à la derobée, la jalousie Italienne ne souffrant pas qu'ils eussent ensemble des conversations reglées. Il auroit bien voulu obtenir quelque faveur de Diane, mais on lui vouloit faire valoir la chose, on lui promit pourtant que dans le caréme on trouveroit des occasions de le satisfaire. La premiere semaine étant venuë, on lui donna un rendez-vous dans un jardin proche de Sainte Sabine au Mont Aventin, où l'on entre par deux portes différentes. Don Benigne y vint avec son confident dans un petit carosse fermé qu'on laissa à 50 pas d'une porte secréte. La Duchesse qui s'y étoit rendüe par la grande porte, le reçeût agréablement, tandis que le confident entretenoit la soubrette, & qu'ils s'eloignoient insensiblement. Diane qui pour cette fois ne vouloit qu'amuser le Prince, ordonna à sa suivante de ne les pas perdre de vûë, & on y obeit, quoy qu'on se tint hors de la portée de la voix. Le tête à tête dura pres d'une demie heure avec une égale satisfaction. Don Benigne fut fort content de cette premiere entrevuë, mais comme en Italie on a peu de liberté de se voir, il demanda la liberté de lui écrire, & le plaisir de reçevoir des réponses. Diane en fit beaucoup de difficulté, elle dit qu'il y avoit moins de danger de satisfaire un Amant, en lui accordant les dernieres faveurs, que de lui écrire, & reçevoir de ses lettres, parce que s'il arrivoit que l'Amant se vantât d'avoir eu des privautez avec sa Maîtresse, elle étoit en droit de tout nier: mais que les lettres, & les caracteres étant connus, c'étoient des témoins irreprochables. Enfin à force de prieres, il obtint d'avoir des billets à condition de les renvoyer dans les réponses. Toutes ces difficultez étant surmontées, la conclusion d'une vingtaine de lettres fut un rendez-vous chez Diane, à une certaine heure, à quoy Don Benigne ne manqua pas. Il y vint un soir bien tard accompagné de son confident; Ils entrérent par la porte de derriere du Palais de la Dame, le nez enveloppé dans leurs manteaux; ils montérent heureusement l'escalier sans disgraces jusqu'à la derniere lanterne d'en haut, où ils trouvérent un Gentilhomme de Don Arimathie, frere de Diane, qui les regarda un peu, puis passant son chemin leur dit en riant, «Dieu vous envoye bonne fortune, mes amis»; étant arrivez dans une petite galerie qui donnoit dans la chambre de Clarice suivante de Diane, ils ne fûrent pas au bout de leurs peines, car ayant éteint leurs lanternes sourdes, ils ne sçavoient où ils alloient. Le marchand qui sçavoit les êtres, marchoit le premier en tâtonnant, mais il pensa être etranglé par le Prince à force detirer son manteau. Enfin aprés un labirinthe de detours ils entrérent dans une petite chambre, où ils virent d'abord au chevet du lit un crucifix haut de six pieds, à côté d'un prie-Dieu, au dessus un tableau de Saint François, entourré d'un chapelet long d'une aune; Ce lit n'étoit pas elevé de terre plus de deux pieds, Don Benigne avoit mis une peruque noire au lieu d'une blonde qu'il portoit toûjours, & la peignoit en attendant que la Nimfe arrivât, assûrant qu'il étoit preparé au combat, & qu'il avoit apporté de bonnes armes pour attaquer & battre la place dans les formes. On vit paroître alors au fonds de la Galerie, la Duchesse qui s'en-venoit plus brillante que la Lune, avec une bougie à la main, en des-habillê blanc, la tête ajustée avantageusement; Un beau nœud de ruban ponceau sur l'extremité du sein, qui étant à moitié découvert, donnoit un grand éclat à la plus belle gorge du monde. Don Benigne en fut tout ebloüi, & aprés les premiers complimens, le marchand se retira, laissant les amans en pleine liberté de faire ce que bon leur sembleroit, mais tout se passa encore en ceremonies, Don Benigne ne sçeut dire autre chose à Diane sinon qu'il mouroit d'amour pour elle, & quoy qu'elle lui laissât la liberté de tout entreprendre, il n'osa s'en prevaloir. S'étant retirê sans rien faire, il eût honte de son peu de hardiesse, & voulut reparer sa faute, mais une seconde audience qu'on lui accorda ne fit que divulguer sa recherche, par ce que le Prince Colombier en ayant eu le vent, aposta six braves qui attendirent Don Benigne sous le Portail du Palais Deste, où ils lui presentérent une lanterne sourde au visage pour le reconnoître, s'étans retirez aussi-tôt, comme si c'eût été la ronde, quoy qu'un d'entr'eux le suivît de loin, jusqu'au Palais de Diane. Don Benigne n'y fit rien encore, & le Prince Colombier ne manqua pas à la premiere occasion, de le feliciter en paroles couvertes sur ses bonnes fortunes, & sur le nombre de ses Maîtresses, qui l'empêchoit de pouvoir les satisfaire toutes. Cela joint à l'avis qu'on lui donna que le Prince Colombier revoyoit Diane, renouvella sa passion, la jalousie faisant plus d'effet en lui que l'amour. Il se plaignit de Diane qui preferoit un homme d'âge à un jeune garçon plein de vigueur, & prest à satisfaire les Dames à chaque instant, au lieu qu'il falloit huit jours au Prince Colombier pour s'y preparer. Ces plaintes furent redites à la Duchesse, mot pour mot, par le marchand, auquel elle répondit que Don Benigne étoit pire que le Prince Colombier, «car» dit elle «s'il faut huit jours de preparation à celui-ci, j'ay donné plus de trois mois à ce poltron là, & il m[']a manqué toûjours dans l'occasion.» «Madame» repliqua le marchand, «cela peut venir de trop d'ardeur, comme il arriva en France au Comte de Guiche.» «Bagatelle», répondit Diane, «cela peut arriver une fois, mais un homme plein de vigueur, ne l'est jamais plus qu'en ces occasions.» Le marchand ne sçavoit que répondre pour defendre une si mauvaise cause: «Imagine toy mon pauvre Claude» poursuivit elle, «que ton ami est tout le contraire des Scorpions qui piquent de la queuë, car il ne pique que de la langue, aussi faut il se defier de ces grands efflanquez, qui ont belle apparence, mais qui ne sont bons a rien.» Le marchand lui dit alors pour faire diversion, «Madame un homme de moyenne taille, les epaules larges, les membres nerveux, & pleins de muscles, le poil noir, brun de visage, plein de vigueur, agé de 35 ans, les yeux brillans & remplis de feu, quoy qu'au reste cet homme ne soit pas beau, seroit il bon à quelque chose?» «Tres bon» dit elle, «voila comme nous les aimons, c'est aux femmes à être belles, & aux hommes à bien courir la lance, mais vous ressemblez fort à cet homme là.» Elle étoit couchée negligemment sur son lit de repos, le sein decouvert, & en posture fort tentative, quand on vint gratter à sa porte, pour l'avertir que le Cardinal Colonne étoit au bas de l'escallier qui venoit pour lui rendre visite. Elle se leva aussitôt, prit ses Coiffes, & alla au devant de son Eminence, tandis que le marchand passa dans un Cabinet, & de là dans la Garderobbe d'où il sortit par un escalier secret. Il alla trouver Don Benigne, pour lui dire que s'il n'en usoit mieux avec Diane, cela l'obligeroit à renoüer avec le Prince Colombier; mais il prit la chose de travers, ou il se servit de ce pretexte pour rompre avec Diane. Il dit qu'il ne vouloit pas les restes du Prince Colombier, qui étoit le Taureau Banal de Rome, & qui avoit de certaines infirmitez qu'on n'étoit pas bien aise de contracter: Cependant le Prince Colombier étoit alors dans une santé parfaite, & la Duchesse saine, & frâiche comme un poissoin; Enfin Don Benigne ne vit plus depuis la Duchesse, & pour lui faire depit il retint une de ses lettres qu'il ne lui fit rendre que quand il se fit Prêtre. Toute la vangeance qu'elle en pût prendre, fut de se moquer de lui avec la Reine dont elle étoit fort considérée; quand elles parloient de lui ensemble, ce n'étoit qu'avec le dernier mépris, elles le traitoient comme le plus misérable des hommes, & le chargeoient toûjours de quelques nouvelles injures. La Reine qui étoit fort libre en paroles, & qui prononçoit des mots en François, qu'elle auroit eu honte de dire en sa langue, par ce qu'il y a des termes qui ne font pas tant d'impression en une langue étrangere comme en sa naturelle, dit un jour à Diane qu'elle ne croyoit pas qu'il y eût une epithete qui lui convint mieux, que celle de Banda.... la Duchesse lui applaudit, & toutes deux de concert dirent, «au diable soit le Banda....» Don Benigne n'osa plus depuis aller chez la Reine, quoy qu'il eût coûtume d'y aller souvent, particulierement quand elle tenoit son Academie, où les plus beaux esprits qui fussent à Rome se trouvoient; il prit pour pretexte qu'il ne vouloit point traiter d'excellence le Marquis Delmonte que la Reine venoit d'elever à la charge de grand ecuyer, & pour faire dépit à sa Majesté, il obligea sa sœur, la Princesse Altamira, à chasser un page qu'elle avoit, qui étoit frere de la Signora Octavia, & qu'elle avoit pris à la considération de la Reine.
With modernised spelling:
Entre les cardinaux qui fréquentaient la loge de la reine, le cardinal Benoît Odescalchi n'y manqua jamais un soir durant les cinq années que la reine maintint sa loge au théâtre; mais, après la création du même cardinal au pontificat, changeant d'humeur et de conduite tout d'un coup, il entreprit de détruire le théâtre où il avait coutume de prendre tant de plaisir. Et, pour en venir plus facilement à bout, il fit un édit rigoureux qui subsiste encore, par lequel il défendit aux femmes de reciter sur le théâtre, aimant mieux que de jeunes musiciens jouassent leurs rôles revêtus de leurs habits, contre l'expresse défense de la Sainte Écriture, qui défend aux hommes de porter les habits des femmes, parce que c'est une abomination devant Dieu.
La nouveauté de ce spectacle y attirait tout le monde, et on avait peine a y entrer pour son argent, car il y avait pour lors un grand concours d'étrangers de marque, et ils avaient apporté les modes les plus nouvelles. Les cavaliers romains les imitèrent et se rendirent tous propres et galants. Un entre autres de la première qualité les surpassait en magnificence; il était d'une riche taille, les traits du visage bien faits, les yeux noirs et vifs autant qu'une des plus belles dames de Rome.
Il avait la physionomie heureuse, une parure de cheveux qui le rendait un des plus beaux hommes d'Italie. Il chantait et jouait parfaitement bien de toutes sortes d'instruments, grand amateur de la poésie, et qui même a composé de très beaux ouvrages; heureux si, avec tous ces avantages, il eut voulu répondre aux désirs des dames, puisqu'il y en eut plus d'une qui le voulut mettre à l'épreuve; mais il ne répondit point à leur attente, comme nous le dirons bientôt. Il était alors à la fleur de son âge, courant sa 23e année, le sang lui bouillait dans les veines et le faisait paraître tout esprit.
La reine ayant aperçu ce jeune seigneur dans une loge à côté de la sienne dans le temps qu'il lui faisait une profonde révérence, elle sentit une émotion extraordinaire en le regardant; et, ayant appris son rang et son mérite personnel, cela augmenta l'estime que cette princesse commençait à avoir pour lui; et elle ne pouvait s'empêcher de jetter des œillades sur la loge de temps en temps. Un valet de chambre de Sa Majesté, qui était un vieux routier dans les intrigues amoureuses, entendant un jour dire à la reine tant de biens du jeune prince, prit le temps qu'elle se voulait faire couper les cheveux pour lui dire: «Madame, le prince don Bénigne» — c'était le nom de ce jeune seigneur, — «a un valet de chambre, perruquier qui coupe les cheveux à merveille.»
La reine, ravie d'avoir occasion de dire du bien d'une personne pour qui elle se sentait une si forte inclination, fit demander ce perruquier, qui ne manqua pas d'exécuter ses ordres selon son désir. Elle de son côté le fit régaler de dix pistoles, après avoir parlé avantageusement de son maître.
L'officier de la reine se trouvant depuis chez le prince, il lui témoigna la joie qu'il avait de ce que Sa Majesté l'avait honoré en se servant d'un de ses gens, à quoi l'officier répondit en peu de mots, exagérant avec des expressions choisies les grandes qualités de la reine. Le prince renchérit sur ces louanges, et Sa Majesté sut tout ce qu'on avait dit d'avantageux d'elle et en fut ravie.
Une autre fois, elle envoya demander au prince une de ses perruques. Elle l'essaya et s'en fit faire une courte de la même couleur, blonde et cendrée, qu'elle porta plusieurs jours.
Quand la reine était en son particulier avec ses filles, on n'entendait dire que des louanges de don Bénigne. Elle n'avait plus d'autre divertissement que celui-là. Une de ses filles, qui était alors sa favorite, très belle et bien faite, — c'était la signora Ottavia, — ayant entendu si souvent la reine louer ce jeune prince, en devint amoureuse. Mais, n'osant déclarer sa passion, elle se consumait en devenant rêveuse et languissante.
La reine, qui souffrait de la voir dans cette langueur sans en savoir la cause, l'obligea d'aller prendre l'air de la campagne. Ottavia choisit d'aller à Frascati, comme au lieu le plus délicieux qu'il y ait autour de Rome, où la plupart des cardinaux et cavaliers romains ont des vignes ou maisons de plaisance, qui semblent être des palais enchantés. Celui de don Bénigne n'était pas un des moins considérables, et il y était actuellement jouissant des plaisirs de la belle saison du printemps.
La reine donna à Ottavia deux calèches couvertes et deux laquais. Ottavia mena avec elle sa mère, sa sœur, et quelques autres femmes; et elle voulut avoir pour son pourvoyeur ce valet de chambre intriguant, qui avait été employé dans les amours de la reine.
En arrivant à Frascati, on alla descendre chez un particulier, pour n'incommoder personne. Le train s'arrêta aux écuries de la délicieuse vigne Aldobrandina, où il fut bien reçu à cause des livrées de la reine, par les ordres de Madame la princesse de Rossano. Aikelmer — c'est le nom du pourvoyeur — eut soin de faire apprêter le dîner. Cependant l'escadron coiffé alla à la messe aux capucins; on rencontra en chemin don Bénigne comme par hasard. Ottavia fit semblant de se détourner, pour ne pas faire paraître une petite rougeur qui lui vint au visage, quoique cela la rendît plus belle.
Il n'y eut qu'un simple salut de part et d'autre; et après quelques tours de promenade, on revint au logis pour dîner, où l'on ne trouva pas grand apprêt, car on est fort sobre en Italie quand on vit à ses dépens. On avait néanmoins bon appetit, et l'on fit quelques reproches à Aikelmer de son épargne.
Sur ces entrefaites, on vit venir un valet de pied du prince, qui conduisait un homme chargé d'un grand bassin de vermeil doré, plein de viandes très exquises, lequel demanda à parler au conducteur. Aikelmer se présenta, et le valet de pied lui dit que Monsieur le prince don Bénigne lui envoyait cette petite bagatelle pour se réjouir avec sa troupe et pour boire à sa santé.
Dans le même temps, un autre homme parut, chargé de douze bouteilles d'un vin très délicat. Le régale fut reçu très agréablement; on remercia Monsieur le prince en des termes les plus soumis et plains de reconnaissance. Ottavia jetta une œillade sur le conducteur, qui lui fit signe que le regale était à cause d'elle.
Après s'être bien réjoui et reposé pendant quelques heures, on fit partie d'aller à la vigne Aldobrandina où de Belvédère, autant pour se promener que pour voir les merveilleuses cascades, ou jets d'eau, qui font l'admiration des étrangers. En passant par une voute qui conduisait à la premiere terrasse pour éviter le soleil, on rencontra don Bénigne qui s'y promenait aussi en compagnie. Aikelmer, lui faisant une profonde révérence, le remercia de son régale au nom de sa compagnie, qui partageait avec lui les obligations que tous avaient à un si généreux seigneur.
Le prince sourit et dit que ce n'était qu'une bagatelle qui ne méritait pas qu'on en parlât, qu'il aurait bien offert à ces dames un appartement dans son palais avec toutes les commodités nécessaires, mais qu'il ne l'avait pas fait, appréhendant de leur être à charge par des civilités incommodes, et qu'apparamment ces dames avaient cru être en plus grande liberté que chez lui, où la reine et ses officiers étaient en droit de venir sans façon quand il plaisait à Sa Majesté.
Ottavia, s'adressant au conducteur, lui dit qu'il était heureux d'être si considéré de Son Excellence. Le prince répondit qu'il avait de la considération pour tous en genéral.
«N'enviez point mon bonheur, Mademoiselle», dit Aikelmer; «il ne tiendra qu'à vous d'être considérée de Son Excellence. Jamais prince n'a eu tant d'égard pour les dames que lui, mais pour cette fois je suis en possession de prendre part à ses bontés, comme lui étant serviteur de longue main.»
Cela ne se dit qu'en passant, les œillades furent un langage plus passionné que les paroles, et le prince les quitta alors pour aller réjoindre la compagnie qui était déjà bien loin.
Après avoir vu la vigne et les cascades, on retourna le même soir à Rome. La reine voulut savoir tout le détail du voyage. La galanterie du prince lui plut fort, elle crut que ce qu'il en avait fait était à cause d'elle, et on n'eut garde de l'en désabuser. Comme c'était la meilleure maîtresse du monde quand elle était de bonne humeur, elle gronda ses filles de n'être pas restées 3 ou 4 jours à la campagne.
Deux jours après, le prince revint à Rome. Il envoya quérir Aikelmer pour lui demander qui était cette fille, pour laquelle il s'entait déjà une forte inclination. Aikelmer lui fit savoir qui était la signora Ottavia et la part qu'elle avait dans la confidence de la reine, ajoutant que cette fille était charmée de connaître le mérite d'un prince si accompli. Les œillades qu'ils se donnèrent depuis dans les rencontres achevèrent de les mettre en parfaite intelligence — les paroles sont rarement mises en œuvre en Italie — néanmoins on ménagea une entrevue entre ce couple parfait.
Mais le prince, qui témoignait si ardemment le souhaiter, se ralentit tout d'un coup, sachant qu'Ottavia y consentait sans se faire trop prier, quoiqu'elle eût pris des précautions pour ne pas échouer dans une tête-à-tête. Quelque réflexion hors de propos détourna le prince de se trouver au rendez-vous, Ottavia en eut un dépit inconcevable. L'entremetteur fut confondu et n'y gagna que la haine de l'un et de l'autre.
D'autre part, la reine, qui ne connaissait pas encore le tempérament froid du jeune prince, lui témoignait par signes et en paroles couvertes dans l'occasion qu'il ne tiendrait qu'à lui qu'il fût heureux. Mais on eut beau lui faire des avances et l'assurer qu'il pouvait disposer de la personne de la reine, dont il possédait déja le cœur, il ne voulut jamais passer les termes de la galanterie la plus innocente; et plus on franchissait les obstacles, plus il devenait reservé.
Quoique loin du danger, il témoignât beaucoup d'ardeur pour répondre à la flamme de la reine, qui se désesperait de son trop de respect et de sa crainte timide, elle n'en pût jamais rien tirer. On lui offrit de lui donner telles sûretés qu'il voudrait, et qu'on ferait même venir la reine incognito, en tel endroit qu'il lui plairait, et dont il serait le maître. Cette seule pensée lui fit horreur.
Enfin, il ne resta à la reine que la honte de s'être expliquée trop clairement avec lui. La rage de se voir rebutée convertit son amour en une haine implacable, et si elle ne prit pas une vengeance solennelle du mépris du prince, ce fut un effet de son bonheur, tant il est dangereux d'être aimé ou haï des grands.
Si le prince n'avait refusé que la reine seulement, on pourrait dire que la crainte d'avoir un sort pareil à celui du marquis Monaldeschi l'aurait retenu. Mais il a méprisé les feux de plusieurs autres dames qui l'ont accusé d'impuissance, ou d'une timidité indigne de son rang, car dans le monde on n'estime pas un homme qui se contient par un principe de religion. Nous avons vu comme le courage lui manqua dans son intrigue avec Ottavia, et nous allons voir qu'il n'en témoigna pas davantage à l'endroit d'une belle duchesse qui avait toutes les qualités qu'il faut à une dame pour se faire aimer.
On dit que le prince Colombier l'avait aimée peu avant que don Bénigne s'attachât à elle et qu'il en avait été fort satisfait. Don Bénigne trouva la place vacante quand il entreprit la conquête du cœur de Diane, car c'est ainsi qu'on appellait la duchesse. Pour y parvenir, il se servit du portier d'une communauté nombreuse qui avait la victoire pour armes; mais, ayant reconnu qu'il n'était pas habile en ce manège, il aima mieux y employer un marchand français demeurant proche de Saint-Augustin parce qu'il servait la duchesse et qu'il était capable de négocier une intrigue amoureuse.
Après lui avoir fait mille caresses, il s'ouvrit à lui de son dessein, lui promit mons et merveilles, selon la coutume des amants, et lui laissa entre les mains la conduite de sa bonne fortune. Dès que le confident entra chez la duchesse, sous prétexte de lui porter une nouvelle étoffe de France, il fit semblant de lire un billet dans le temps qu'elle avait le dos tourné, mais il se laissa surprendre.
La duchesse lui demanda ce que c'était. Le marchand, qui était familier avec elle, lui dit qu'il faisait la plus agréable lecture du monde et que c'était un billet d'amour de la part de la personne qu'il estimait le plus.
«Je le veux voir», dit Diane.
«Tenez, Madame», répondit le fin marchand, qui ne demandait pas mieux. «Vous serez ma confidente!»
Elle le prit en effet et lut ces mots:
«Le prince don Bénigne vous adore, Madame, et m'a chargé de vous le faire savoir. Je souhaiterais pour le repos de son amour, que vous l'entendissiez vous-même. Je suis sûr que vous seriez attendrie de savoir le mal qu'il souffre pour vous; et si vous m'en donnez la liberté, je vous expliquerai le reste de bouche.»
Il faut avouer que le métier de confident est le plus agréable qu'on puisse penser, pourvu qu'on n'y coure point de risque, car une femme sait toujours bon gré à ceux qui lui persuadent qu'elle est aimable. Cette princesse, que la curiosité avait portée à lire ce billet, croyant que ce fût toute autre chose, demeura surprise de cette nouvelle manière d'apprendre d'être aimée. Elle devint vermeille comme une rose et fut quelque temps sans parler, avec une confusion qui marquait l'agitation de son âme.
Le duc son mari entra alors dans la chambre de la duchesse pour voir l'étoffe que le marchand avait apportée avant que de la faire couper, et voyant la duchesse toute émue, il lui demanda si elle n'était pas satisfaite d'une si belle étoffe qui lui paraissait très riche. Elle témoigna d'en être contente, mais elle dit qu'elle aurait bien voulu être la seule qui l'eut, parce que la princesse de Sonnino avait un habit semblable à celui qu'elle s'était fait faire auparavant.
«Le secret», dit le marchand, «est de prendre toute la pièce, car il n'est venu à Rome que celle-là seule, assurement.»
«Monsieur Claude a raison», dit le duc; «et je vous conseillerais d'acheter la pièce entière, si elle n'était pas si chère. Au reste, je crois qu'il vous sera fidèle.»
«Oui, Monseigneur», dit le marchand; «Madame peut compter que je lui garderai le secret en cela, et en tout autre chose. Au bout du compte, 30 pistoles de plus à la mode, et elle sera la seule qui l'aura de longtemps.»
«Voilà un homme admirable!», dit ce bon mari. «Tenez en compte, Madame, mais faites bien mesurer l'étoffe avant qu'il l'écrive sur ses parties.»
Il n'y eut rien autre chose de remarquable dans cette première entrevue, et le marchand alla aussitôt rendre compte de sa négociation à don Bénigne. Le prince trouva la déclaration ingénieuse. Il embrassa le marchand et dit qu'il avait bien commencé, le priant de continuer jusqu'à ce qu'il l'eût rendu heureux.
Deux jours après, le marchand retourna chez la duchesse pour lui apporter la doublure de son habit. Elle était dans l'impatience de le revoir; mais par une retenue propre aux dames qui veulent garder quelque bienséance, elle attendit qu'il commençât.
Étant resté seul avec elle, il lui demanda quel effet avait produit son billet. Elle se mit sur un lit de repos en disant avec affectation qu'elle n'en avait tenu aucun compte.
«Aussi bien», dit-elle, «je ne me veux pas embarquer avec ce jeune homme qui a trop de fierté, qui présume trop de lui même, et parce qu'il est beau garçon, il croit être un Narcisse.»
Le marchand l'assura que le prince aurait un attachement indissoluble pour elle et que, sa passion ne pouvant être plus grande, son respect et sa fidélité ne seraient pas moindres. Sur ces assurances, la duchesse dit au marchand:
«Je vous prie, Monsieur Claude, de ne le flatter d'aucune espérance que je ne l'aie mis à l'épreuve auparavant, car, sous prétexte de sauver les apparences et de garder toutes les mesures nécessaires, je verrai s'il aura de la persévérance.»
Elle fit même connaître au marchand qu'elle avait quelque inclination pour lui et qu'il ne tiendrait pas à elle qu'il ne fût heureux. Elle avait raison et connaissait parfaitement le personnage, et, certes si sa vigueur eut répondu à sa présomption, il avait de quoi contenter les dames. Néanmoins, il était encore si novice qu'il croyait qu'il lui suffît de faire dire à une dame qu'il était amoureux d'elle pour l'obliger à prendre la même passion pour lui; mais il trouva en la personne de Diane une femme qui savait morigéner les gens et qui lui apprit à vivre.
Un jour don Bénigne, étant à Frascati, fut attaqué par trois dames qui prétendaient être belles et qui lui firent agréablement la guerre. Une d'entre elles, qui était la marquise Nani, lui dit en raillant que, tout beau et bien fait qu'il était, il avait trouvé des dames cruelles, qu'on avait des nouvelles de ses affaires, et qu'elles étaient obligées à la belle personne à qui il adressait ses vœux de le tenir dans le respect pour le sexe.
Il fut piqué au jeu par ces paroles, mais il se retrancha sur son indifférence pour les dames. Néanmoins, sa vanité étant excitée, il résolut de tout employer pour se faire aimer de Diane. Il s'y prit assez bien d'abord, car après avoir donné quelques marques de persévérance, il fit un present à la duchesse d'une étoffe de soie à fonds bleu rayée à colomnes d'argent, entourées de tres beaux feuillages et fleurs d'or et autres d'argent, d'un grand prix.
Pour cacher au duc l'endroit d'où venait ce présent, la duchesse lui fit accroire que le marchand se contentait du tiers en argent comptant, et que, pour le reste, il prendrait du blé et du vin, une somme par mois jusqu'à la fin du payement. Le duc en fut bien aise, car à Rome les grands seigneurs ont souvent de la difficulté à se défaire de leurs d'entrées parce qu'ils font valoir leurs biens eux-mêmes, n'y ayant point de fermiers qui donnent de l'argent comptant.
Alors la duchesse s'apprivoisa un peu avec don Bénigne. Le Carnaval étant venu, le prince se masquait souvent et portait un capot fourré d'hermine, ayant sur le capuchon une manchette à dentelle et un ruban ponceau, qui était le signal pour se faire connaître. Diane était sur un balcon dans le cours à lui faire les doux yeux. Ils se voyaient aux comédies et aux bals, où ils dansaient ensemble. Cela leur donnait occasion de se dire de petits mots à la dérobée, la jalousie italienne ne souffrant pas qu'ils eussent ensemble des conversations réglées.
Il aurait bien voulu obtenir quelque faveur de Diane, mais on lui voulait faire valoir la chose. On lui promit pourtant que dans le Carême on trouverait des occasions de le satisfaire. La première semaine étant venue, on lui donna un rendez-vous dans un jardin proche de Sainte Sabine au Mont Aventin, où l'on entre par deux portes différentes. Don Bénigne y vint avec son confident dans un petit carosse fermé, qu'on laissa à 50 pas d'une porte secrète. La duchesse, qui s'y était rendue par la grande porte, le reçut agréablement tandis que le confident entretenait la soubrette et qu'ils s'éloignaient insensiblement.
Diane, qui pour cette fois ne voulait qu'amuser le prince, ordonna à sa suivante de ne les pas perdre de vue, et on y obéit, quoiqu'on se tint hors de la portée de la voix. Le tête-à-tête dura pres d'une demie heure avec une égale satisfaction. Don Bénigne fut fort content de cette premiere entrevue, mais, comme en Italie on a peu de liberté de se voir, il demanda la liberté de lui écrire et le plaisir de recevoir des réponses.
Diane en fit beaucoup de difficulté. Elle dit qu'il y avait moins de danger de satisfaire un amant en lui accordant les dernieres faveurs que de lui écrire et recevoir de ses lettres, parce que s'il arrivait que l'amant se vantât d'avoir eu des privautés avec sa maîtresse, elle était en droit de tout nier, mais que, les lettres et les caractères étant connus, c'étaient des témoins irreprochables.
Enfin, à force de prières, il obtint d'avoir des billets, à condition de les renvoyer dans les réponses. Toutes ces difficultés étant surmontées, la conclusion d'une vingtaine de lettres fut un rendez-vous chez Diane à une certaine heure, à quoi don Bénigne ne manqua pas. Il y vint un soir bien tard accompagné de son confident. Ils entrèrent par la porte de derrière du palais de la dame, le nez enveloppé dans leurs manteaux.
Ils montèrent heureusement l'escalier sans disgrâces jusqu'à la derniere lanterne d'en haut, où ils trouvèrent un gentilhomme de don Arimathie, frère de Diane, qui les regarda un peu, puis passant son chemin leur dit en riant: «Dieu vous envoie bonne fortune, mes amis!»
Étant arrivés dans une petite galerie qui donnait dans la chambre de Clarice, suivante de Diane, ils ne furent pas au bout de leurs peines, car, ayant éteint leurs lanternes sourdes, ils ne savaient où ils allaient. Le marchand, qui savait les êtres, marchait le premier en tâtonnant, mais il pensa être étranglé par le prince à force détirer son manteau.
Enfin, après un labyrinthe de détours, ils entrèrent dans une petite chambre, où ils virent d'abord au chevet du lit un crucifix haut de six pieds à côté d'un prie-dieu, au-dessus un tableau de Saint François, entouré d'un chapelet long d'une aune. Ce lit n'était pas élevé de terre plus de deux pieds. Don Bénigne avait mis une perruque noire au lieu d'une blonde qu'il portait toujours, et la peignait en attendant que la nymphe arrivât, assurant qu'il était preparé au combat et qu'il avait apporté de bonnes armes pour attaquer et battre la place dans les formes.
On vit paraître alors, au fonds de la galerie, la duchesse, qui s'en venait plus brillante que la lune, avec une bougie à la main, en déshabillé blanc, la tête ajustée avantageusement, un beau nœud de ruban ponceau sur l'extrêmité du sein, qui, étant à moitié découvert, donnait un grand éclat à la plus belle gorge du monde.
Don Bénigne en fut tout ébloui, et après les premiers compliments, le marchand se retira, laissant les amants en pleine liberté de faire ce que bon leur semblerait, mais tout se passa encore en cérémonies, don Bénigne ne sut dire autre chose à Diane sinon qu'il mourait d'amour pour elle, et quoiqu'elle lui laissât la liberté de tout entreprendre, il n'osa s'en prévaloir.
S'étant retiré sans rien faire, il eut honte de son peu de hardiesse et voulut reparer sa faute, mais une seconde audience qu'on lui accorda ne fit que divulger sa recherche, parce que, le prince Colombier en ayant eu le vent, aposta six braves qui attendirent don Benigne sous le portail du palais d'Este, où ils lui présentèrent une lanterne sourde au visage pour le reconnaître, s'étants retirez aussitôt, comme si c'eût été la ronde, quoiqu'un d'entre eux le suivît de loin jusqu'au palais de Diane.
Don Bénigne n'y fit rien encore, et le prince Colombier ne manqua pas à la première occasion de le féliciter en paroles couvertes sur ses bonnes fortunes et sur le nombre de ses maîtresses qui l'empêchait de pouvoir les satisfaire toutes. Cela, joint à l'avis qu'on lui donna que le prince Colombier revoyait Diane, renouvela sa passion, la jalousie faisant plus d'effet en lui que l'amour. Il se plaignit de Diane, qui préférait un homme d'âge à un jeune garçon plein de vigueur et prêt à satisfaire les dames à chaque instant, au lieu qu'il fallait huit jours au prince Colombier pour s'y préparer.
Ces plaintes furent redites à la duchesse, mot pour mot, par le marchand, auquel elle répondit que don Bénigne était pire que le prince Colombier.
«Car», dit-elle, «s'il faut huit jours de preparation à celui-ci... J'ai donné plus de trois mois à ce poltron-là, et il m'a manqué toujours dans l'occasion!»
«Madame», répliqua le marchand, «cela peut venir de trop d'ardeur, comme il arriva en France au Comte de Guiche.»
«Bagatelle», répondit Diane. «Cela peut arriver une fois, mais un homme plein de vigueur ne l'est jamais plus qu'en ces occasions.»
Le marchand ne savait que répondre pour défendre une si mauvaise cause.
«Imagine-toi, mon pauvre Claude», poursuivit-elle, «que ton ami est tout le contraire des scorpions qui piquent de la queue, car il ne pique que de la langue. Aussi faut-il se défier de ces grands efflanqués qui ont belle apparence, mais qui ne sont bons a rien.»
Le marchand lui dit alors, pour faire diversion: «Madame, un homme de moyenne taille, les épaules larges, les membres nerveux et pleins de muscles, le poil noir, brun de visage, plein de vigueur, âgé de 35 ans, les yeux brillants et remplis de feu... Quoiqu'au reste cet homme ne soit pas beau, serait-il bon à quelque chose?»
«Très bon» dit-elle; «voilà comme nous les aimons. C'est aux femmes à être belles et aux hommes à bien courir la lance, mais vous ressemblez fort à cet homme-là.»
Elle était couchée négligemment sur son lit de repos, le sein decouvert, et en posture fort tentative, quand on vint gratter à sa porte pour l'avertir que le cardinal Colonne était au bas de l'escallier, qui venait pour lui rendre visite. Elle se leva aussitôt, prit ses coiffes et alla au devant de Son Éminence tandis que le marchand passa dans un cabinet et delà dans la garderobe, d'où il sortit par un escalier secret.
Il alla trouver don Bénigne pour lui dire que s'il n'en usait mieux avec Diane. Cela l'obligerait à renouer avec le prince Colombier, mais il prit la chose de travers, ou il se servit de ce prétexte pour rompre avec Diane. Il dit qu'il ne voulait pas les restes du prince Colombier, qui était le taureau banal de Rome et qui avait de certaines infirmités qu'on n'était pas bien aise de contracter.
Cependant le prince Colombier était alors dans une santé parfaite, et la duchesse saine et fraîche comme un poisson. Enfin don Bénigne ne vit plus depuis la duchesse, et, pour lui faire dépit, il retint une de ses lettres qu'il ne lui fit rendre que quand il se fit prêtre.
Toute la vengeance qu'elle en put prendre fut de se moquer de lui avec la reine, dont elle était fort considérée. Quand elles parlaient de lui ensemble, ce n'était qu'avec le dernier mépris. Elles le traitaient comme le plus misérable des hommes et le chargeaient toujours de quelques nouvelles injures.
La reine, qui était fort libre en paroles et qui prononçait des mots en français qu'elle aurait eu honte de dire en sa langue, parce qu'il y a des termes qui ne font pas tant d'impression en une langue étrangère comme en sa naturelle, dit un jour à Diane qu'elle ne croyait pas qu'il y eût une épithète qui lui convint mieux que celle de banda.
La duchesse lui applaudit, et toutes deux de concert dirent: «Au diable soit le banda!»
Don Bénigne n'osa plus depuis aller chez la reine, quoiqu'il eût coutume d'y aller souvent, particulièrement quand elle tenait son Académie, où les plus beaux esprits qui fussent à Rome se trouvaient. Il prit pour prétexte qu'il ne voulait point traiter d'Excellence le marquis del Monte, que la reine venait d'élever à la charge de grand écuyer; et, pour faire dépit à Sa Majesté, il obligea sa sœur, la princesse Altamira, à chasser un page qu'elle avait qui était frère de la signora Ottavia et qu'elle avait pris à la considération de la reine.
Swedish translation (my own):
Bland kardinalerna som frekventerade drottningens loge, missade kardinal Benedetto Odescalchi aldrig en kväll under de fem år som drottningen behöll sin loge på teatern; men efter skapandet av samme kardinal till pontifikatet, och plötsligt ändrande hans humör och uppförande, åtog han sig att förstöra teatern där han var van att ta så mycket nöje. Och för att lättare kunna åstadkomma detta, utfärdade han ett rigoröst påbud som fortfarande existerar, genom vilket han förbjöd kvinnor att recitera på scenen, och föredrar att unga musiker spelar sina roller iklädda sina kläder, mot det uttryckliga förbudet i den Heliga Skriften, som förbjuder män att bära kvinnokläder eftersom det är en styggelse inför Gud.
Nyheten i detta skådespel lockade alla, och det var svårt att få in för sina pengar, ty det fanns på den tiden en stor samling förnäma utlänningar, och de hade kommit med de nyaste modet. De romerska kavaljererna imiterade dem och alla gjorde sig rena och galanta. En bland andra av första kvalitet överträffade dem i storhet; han var av en rik växt, ansiktsdragen välformade, hans ögon lika svarta och livliga som en av Roms vackraste damer.
Han hade en lycklig fysionomi och en hårprydnad som gjorde honom till en av de vackraste männen i Italien. Han sjöng och spelade alldeles utmärkt på alla möjliga instrument, en stor älskare av poesi och som till och med komponerade mycket vackra verk; lycklig om han med alla dessa fördelar hade velat svara på damernas önskningar, då det var mer än en som ville sätta honom på prov; men han svarade inte på deras förväntningar, som vi snart kommer att berätta. Han var då i toppen av sitt liv, i sitt 23:e år, blodet kokade i hans ådror och fick honom att verka helt livlig.
Efter att drottningen sett denna unge herre i en loge bredvid hennes medan han höll djup reverens för henne, kände hon en extraordinär emotion när hon såg på honom; och efter att ha lärt sig hans rang och personliga förtjänster, ökade detta den aktning som denna prinsessa började få för honom; och hon kunde inte låta bli att kasta blickar på logen då och då. Hennes Majestäts valet de chambre, som var en gammal hand i kärleksfulla intriger, när han en dag hörde drottningen säga så mycket gott om den unge prinsen, tog sig tid medan hon skulle klippa håret för att säga till henne: »Madame, prins don Benigno« — det var namnet på denne unge herre — »har en valet de chambre, en perukmakare som klipper håret underbart.«
Drottningen, förtjust över att få tillfälle att tala väl om en person för vilken hon kände en så stark böjelse, sände bud efter denne perukmakare, som inte underlåtit att utföra sina befallningar efter hennes önskan. Hon å sin sida lät hylla honom med tio pistoles, efter att ha talat positivt om sin herre.
När drottningens officer var hemma hos prinsen, uttryckte han för honom den glädje han hade över att Hennes Majestät hade hedrat honom genom att använda ett av hans folk, vilket officeren svarade med några få ord och överdrev med valfria uttryck drottningens stora egenskaper. Prinsen lade till dessa lovord, och Hennes Majestät visste allt det gynnsamma som hade sagts om henne och var glad över dem.
En annan gång skickade hon för att be prinsen om en av hans peruker. Hon provade den och hade en kort i samma färg, blond och aska, som hon bar i flera dagar.
När drottningen var privat med sina flickor hördes ingenting annat än beröm av don Benigno. Hon hade ingen annan underhållning än så. En av hennes flickor, som då var hennes gunstling, mycket vacker och välformad, — hon var signora Ottavia, — efter att ha hört drottningen så ofta prisa denne unge prins, blev kär i honom. Men eftersom hon inte vågade deklarera sin passion, slösade hon bort sig själv genom att bli drömsk och trög.
Drottningen, som led av att se henne i denna tröghet utan att veta orsaken, tvingade henne att gå och hämta lite luft i landet. Ottavia valde att åka till Frascati, eftersom den mest förtjusande plats som finns runt Rom, där de flesta av de romerska kardinalerna och kavaljererna har vingårdar eller nöjeshus, som verkar vara förtrollade palats. Don Benignos var inte en av de minst betydande, och han var där för närvarande och njöt av den vackra vårens nöjen.
Drottningen gav Ottavia två täckta kalescher och två lakejer. Ottavia hade med sig sin mor, sin syster och några andra kvinnor; och hon ville ha som sin hallick denna spännande betjänt, som hade varit anställd i drottningens amurer.
När de anlände till Frascati, gick de för att bo i ett privat hus, för att inte störa någon. Trängen stannade vid stallet på den förtjusande vingården Aldobrandina, där den togs emot väl på grund av drottningens livré, på order av prinsessan av Rossano. Aikelmer — det var hallickens namn — passade på att laga kvällsmaten. Emellertid gick den täckta skvadronen till mässa hos kapucinerna; på vägen mötte de don Benigno som av en slump. Ottavia låtsades vända sig bort, för att inte visa en liten rodnad som kom i hennes ansikte, fastän det gjorde henne vackrare.
Det var bara en enkel hälsning på båda sidor; och efter att ha gått några promenader återvände de till huset för att äta kvällsmat, där de inte hittade mycket förberedelser, ty man är mycket nykter i Italien när man lever på egen bekostnad. Ändå hade de god aptit, och Aikelmer blev förebrått för sin sparsamhet.
Emellertid sågs en betjänt av prinsen anlända, som ledde en man lastad med en stor bassäng av förgyllt silver, full av mycket utsökt kött, som bad att få tala med konduktören. Aikelmer presenterade sig, och betjänten berättade för honom att prinsen don Benigno skickade honom denna lilla bagatell för att glädjas med sin trupp och dricka till hans hälsa.
Samtidigt dök en annan man upp, lastad med tolv flaskor av ett mycket delikat vin. Regalen mottogs mycket angenämt; prinsen tackades i de mest undergivna och tacksamma ordalag. Ottavia kastade en blick på konduktören, som gjorde ett tecken till henne att regalen berodde på henne.
Efter att ha glatts väl och vilat några timmar, bestämde de sig för att gå till Aldobrandinas vingård eller Belvedere, lika mycket för att gå som för att se de underbara vattenfallen, eller vattenstrålar, som är utlänningars beundran. De passerade genom ett valv som ledde till den första terrassen för att undvika solen och mötte don Benigno, som också gick där i sällskap. Aikelmer, som gjorde en djup vördnad för honom, tackade honom för hans regale i hans sällskaps namn, som delade med honom de förpliktelser som alla hade mot en så generös herre.
Prinsen log och sade att det bara var en bagatell som inte förtjänade att talas om, att han gärna skulle ha erbjudit dessa damer en lägenhet i sitt palats med alla nödvändiga bekvämligheter, men att han inte hade gjort det, av rädsla för att bli en börda för dem genom obekväm artighet, och att dessa damer tydligen hade trott sig ha större frihet än i hans hus, dit drottningen och hennes officerare hade rätt att komma utan ceremoni närhelst det behagade Hennes Majestät.
Ottavia talade till konduktören och sa till honom att han hade turen att Hans Excellens hade så mycket hänsyn till honom. Prinsen svarade att han hade hänsyn till alla i allmänhet.
»Avunda inte min lycka, madamigella«, sade Aikelmer; »det kommer att ankomma på Er att bli betraktad av Hans Excellens. Aldrig har en prins haft så mycket aktning för damer som han, men för denna tid är jag i besittning av att ta del av hans godhet, eftersom jag är hans mångåriga tjänare.«
Detta sades bara i förbigående. Blicken var ett språk mer passionerat än ord, och prinsen lämnade dem sedan för att gå och gå med i företaget, som redan var långt borta.
Efter att ha sett vingården och vattenfallen återvände de samma kväll till Rom. Drottningen ville gärna veta alla detaljer om resan. Prinsens tapperhet gladde henne mycket, hon trodde att det han hade gjort berodde på henne, och man passade på att inte missbruka henne det. Eftersom hon var världens bästa härskarinna när hon var på gott humör, skällde hon ut sina flickor för att de inte hade stannat 3 eller 4 dagar på landet.
Två dagar senare återvände prinsen till Rom. Han skickade bud efter Aikelmer för att fråga honom vem denna flicka var, för vilken han redan kände en stark böjelse. Aikelmer informerade honom om vem signora Ottavia var och vilken roll hon hade i drottningens förtroende, och tillade att denna flicka gladde sig över att få veta förtjänsten av en så duktig prins. De blickar de gav varandra sedan dess under sina möten gjorde att de fick perfekt förståelse — ord omsätts sällan i praktiken i Italien — trots det arrangerades en intervju mellan detta perfekta par.
Men prinsen, som så brinnande uttryckt sin önskan om det, saktade plötsligt av, i vetskapen om att Ottavia skulle samtycka utan större uppmaning, fastän hon hade vidtagit försiktighetsåtgärder för att inte misslyckas i en tête-à-tête. Någon irrelevant reflektion avrådde prinsen från att delta i mötet, och Ottavia blev ofattbart föraktad. Mellanmannen blev förvirrad och fick inget annat än bådas hat.
Vidare betygade drottningen, som ännu inte kände till den unge prinsens kalla temperament, med tecken och i förtäckta ord för honom vid tillfället att det var upp till honom om han skulle vara lycklig. Men det var förgäves, som man gjorde framsteg till honom och försäkrade honom att han kunde disponera drottningens person, vars hjärta han redan ägde, han ville aldrig gå utöver det mest oskyldiga tapperhetens villkor; och ju fler hinder som övervanns, desto mer reserverad blev han.
Även om han långt ifrån var i fara, visade han mycket iver att svara på drottningens låga, som var förtvivlad över sin överdrivna respekt och sin blyga rädsla, hon kunde aldrig få något från honom. De erbjöd sig att ge honom sådan säkerhet som han ville, och att de till och med skulle låta drottningen komma inkognito, till en sådan plats som hon behagade och som han skulle vara herre över. Bara denna tanke fyllde honom med fasa.
Slutligen lämnades drottningen med ingenting annat än skammen över att ha förklarat sig för tydligt för honom. Ilskan över att se sig själv avvisad förvandlade hennes kärlek till ett oförsonligt hat, och om hon inte tog högtidlig hämnd för prinsens förakt var det en effekt av hennes lycka. Så farligt är det att bli älskad eller hatad av stora människor.
Om prinsen bara hade vägrat drottningen, skulle man kunna säga att rädslan för att få ett öde som liknar markisen Monaldeschis skulle ha hållit tillbaka honom. Men han har föraktat elden från flera andra damer som anklagat honom för impotens eller för en skygghet som är ovärdig hans rang, ty i samhället är en man inte aktad som hämmar sig genom en religionsprincip. Vi har ju sett hur mod han saknade i sin intriger med Ottavia, och vi skall se att han inte visade mer mod när det gäller en vacker hertiginna som hade alla de egenskaper en dam behöver för att göra sig älskad.
Det sägs att prins Colombieri hade älskat henne kort innan don Benigno blev fäst vid henne och att han hade varit mycket nöjd med henne. Don Benigno fann platsen ledig när han åtog sig erövringen av Dianas hjärta, för det var vad hertiginnan kallades. För att uppnå detta använde han sig av portvakten i ett stort samhälle som hade segern som sina vapen; men efter att ha insett att han inte var skicklig i denna manöver, föredrog han att anställa en fransk köpman som bodde nära Sant'Agostino eftersom han tjänade hertiginnan och var kapabel att förhandla fram en kärleksintrig.
Efter att ha givit henne tusen smekningar, öppnade han upp för henne om sin dessäng, lovade henne berg och världen, enligt älskandes sed, och lämnade uppförandet av sin lycka i hennes händer. Så snart den förtrogne kom in i hertiginnans rum, under förevändning att han skulle ge henne ett nytt stycke franskt tyg, låtsades han läsa en sedel medan hennes rygg vänds, men han lät sig överraskas.
Hertiginnan frågade honom vad det var. Köpmannen, som var bekant med henne, berättade för henne, att den var världens behagligaste läsning, och att det var en kärlekssedel från den person han aktade högst.
»Jag vill gärna se den«, sade Diana.
»Varsågod, madama«, svarade den kloke köpmannen, som inte bad om något bättre. »Ni skall vara min förtrogna!«
Hon tog det verkligen och läste dessa ord:
»Prins don Benigno tillber Er, madama, och har ålagt mig att låta Er veta det. Jag skulle önska, för hans kärleks vila, att Ni själv hör det. Jag är säker på att Ni skulle bli rörd av att känna smärtan han lider för Er, och om Ni vill ge mig friheten att göra det, skall jag förklara resten för Er muntligen.«
Det måste erkännas att förtrognaryrket är det angenämaste man kan tänka sig, förutsatt att man inte löper någon risk i det, ty en kvinna är alltid tacksam mot dem som övertala henne att hon är älskvärd. Denna prinsessa, som nyfikenhet hade lett till att läsa denna sedel, i tron att det var något helt annat, förblev förvånad över detta nya sätt att lära sig att hon var älskad. Hon blev högröd som en ros och var en tid utan att tala, med en förvirring som betygade hennes själs upprördhet.
Hertigen, hennes man, gick sedan in i hertiginnans rum för att se tyget som köpmannen hade tagit med innan han klippte det, och när han såg hertiginnan ganska rörd frågade han henne om hon inte var nöjd med ett så vackert tyg som hon tyckte var mycket rikt. Hon betygade att hon var nöjd med det, men hon sade att hon gärna skulle ha varit den enda som hade det, för prinsessan av Sonnino hade en klänning som liknade den hon hade fått sys tidigare.
»Hemligheten«, sade köpmannen, »är att ta hela stycket, ty säkert bara den ena har kommit till Rom.«
»Monsieur Claude har rätt«, sade hertigen; »och jag skulle råda Er att köpa hela stycket om det inte vore så dyrt. Dessutom tror jag att han kommer att vara Er trogen.«
»Javisst, signor«, sade köpmannen; »Madama kan räkna med att jag håller hennes hemlighet i detta och i allt annat. Till slut kommer 30 pistoles till på modet, och hon kommer att vara den enda som kommer att ha det länge.«
»Vilken beundransvärd man!« sade denne gode man. »Ta hänsyn till det, madama, men låt materialet mäta noggrant innan han skriver det på dess delar.«
Det var inget annat anmärkningsvärt i denna första intervju, och köpmannen gick genast för att redogöra för sin förhandling för don Benigno. Prinsen tyckte att deklarationen var genialisk. Han omfamnade köpmannen och sade att han hade börjat bra, bedjande honom fortsätta tills han hade gjort honom lycklig.
Två dagar senare återvände köpmannen till hertiginnan för att ge henne fodret på hennes klänning. Hon var otålig att se honom igen; men med en reserv för damer som vill bevara lite bienséance, väntade hon tills han började.
Efter att ha lämnats ensam med henne frågade han henne vilken effekt hans sedel hade haft. Hon lade sig på en vilosäng och sade med affektation att hon inte hade märkt den.
»Och dessutom«, sade hon, »vill jag inte blanda mig i den där yngling som har alltför mycket stolthet, som antar alltför mycket av sig själv, och bara för att han är en vacker pojke, tror han att han är Narkissos.«
Köpmannen försäkrade henne att prinsen skulle ha en oupplöslig tillgivenhet till henne, och att eftersom hans aktning och trohet inte skulle bli mindre, så var hans passion inte större. På dessa försäkringar sade hertiginnan till köpmannen:
»Jag ber Er, monsieur Claude, att inte smickra honom med något hopp om att jag inte redan har satt honom på prov, för under förevändning att rädda utseendet och hålla alla nödvändiga åtgärder, skall jag se om han kommer att ha uthållighet.«
Hon meddelade till och med för köpmannen att hon hade en böjelse för honom och att han skulle hålla fast vid henne tills han var glad. Hon hade rätt och kände hans karaktär perfekt, och om hans kraft hade svarat på hans antagande, hade han vad som krävdes för att nöja damer. Ändå var han fortfarande en sådan novis att han trodde att det var tillräckligt för honom att få det sagt till en dam att han var kär i henne för att tvinga henne att ta samma passion för honom; men han fann i Dianas person en kvinna som visste hur hon skulle tillrättavisade människor och som lärde honom hur han skulle leva.
En dag attackerades don Benigno, när han befann sig i Frascati, av tre damer som låtsades vara vackra och som behagligt förde krig mot honom. En av dem, som var markisin Nani, berättade för honom hånfullt att han, vacker och välformad som han var, hade hittat grymma damer, att de hade nyheter om hans affärer och att de var skyldiga till den vackra person som han riktade sina önskemål till om att hålla honom i respekt för sitt kön.
Han blev mycket upprörd av dessa ord, men han föll tillbaka på sin likgiltighet för damerna. Ändå, eftersom hans fåfänga var upphetsad, bestämde han sig för att använda allt för att göra sig älskad av Diana. Han gick till en början ganska bra för sig, ty efter att ha givit några tecken på uthållighet gav han hertiginnan en present av ett sidentyg med en blå bakgrund randig med silverpelare, omgiven av mycket vackert bladverk och blommor av guld och andra av silver, till bra pris.
För att för hertigen dölja platsen varifrån denna gåva kom, fick hertiginnan honom att tro att köpmannen var nöjd med en tredjedel i färdiga pengar, och att han för resten skulle ta vete och vin, en summa per månad, fram till slutet av betalningen. Hertigen var mycket nöjd, för i Rom har de stora herrarna ofta svårt att skilja sig från sina entréavgifter eftersom de själva säljer sina gods, det finns inga hyresgäster som ger färdiga pengar.
Sedan blev hertiginnan lite mer bekant med don Benigno. När Karnavalen kommit, maskerade prinsen sig ofta och bar en huva fodrad med hermelin, med en spetsmanschett och ett ponceauband på huvan, vilket var signalen att göra sig känd. Diana var på en balkong på gården och gjorde söta ögon på honom. De sågs på komedier och baler, där de dansade tillsammans. Detta gav dem ett tillfälle att säga små ord till varandra i smyg, ty italiensk jalusi inte tillät dem att ha regelbundna konversationer tillsammans.
Han skulle ha velat få någon tjänst från Diana, men man ville göra saken. Man lovade honom dock att de under fastan skulle finna tillfällen att tillfredsställa honom. När den första veckan kom gav de honom en tid i en trädgård nära Santa Sabina på Aventinen, som går in genom två olika dörrar. Don Benigno kom dit med sin förtrogne i en liten stängd kaross, som stod kvar 50 steg från en hemlig dörr. Hertiginnan, som hade gått dit vid huvuddörren, tog emot honom vänligt medan den förtrogne underhöll pigan, och de flyttade så småningom bort.
Diana, som denna gång bara ville roa prinsen, beordrade sin piga att inte tappa dem ur sikte, och de lydde, fastän de höll sig utom hörhåll. Tätatäten varade nästan en halvtimme, med lika tillfredsställelse. Don Benigno var mycket nöjd med denna första intervju, men eftersom människor i Italien har liten frihet att se varandra, bad han om friheten att skriva till henne och nöjet att få svar.
Diana gjorde mycket svårt för det. Hon sade att det var mindre fara att tillfredsställa en älskare genom att ge honom de största tjänsterna än att skriva till honom och ta emot hans brev, för om det hände att älskaren skröt om att ha haft privilegier med sin älskarinna, hade hon rätt att neka allt, men eftersom breven och karaktärerna var kända, att de var oklanderliga vittnen.
Till sist fick han genom böner några anteckningar, på villkor att han lämnade tillbaka dem i svaren. Efter att ha övervunnit alla dessa svårigheter, var avslutningen på ett tjugotal brev ett möte med Diana vid en viss tidpunkt, som don Benigno inte missade. Han kom dit väldigt sent en kväll tillsammans med sin förtrogne. De gick in genom bakdörren till damens palats med näsorna insvept i rocken.
De gick glatt uppför trappan utan skam till den sista lyktan högst upp, där de hittade en herre av don Arimatea, Dianas bror, som tittade lite på dem, och sedan gick han förbi sin väg och sade till dem skrattande: »Gud skicke er lycka, mina vänner!«
Efter att ha kommit till ett litet galleri som öppnade sig in i Clarissas, Dianas sköterskas rum, var de inte i slutet av sina besvär, för efter att ha släckt sina slöa lyktor visste de inte vart de skulle. Köpmannen, som kände varelserna, gick först och trevande, men han trodde att han skulle bli strypt av prinsen när han sträckte på sin mantel.
Slutligen, efter en labyrint av omvägar, kom de in i ett litet rum där de först såg i sängens huvud ett krucifix, som var sex fot högt bredvid en prie-dieu, ovanför en målning av den helige Franciskus, omgiven av en radband som var en lång rad. Denna säng höjdes inte från marken mer än två fot. Don Benigno hade tagit på sig en svart peruk istället för en blond som han alltid bar, och han kammade den medan han väntade på att nymfen skulle komma och försäkrade honom att han var förberedd för strid och att han hade med sig bra vapen för att attackera och slå platsen i formerna.
Sedan såg man hertiginnan dyka upp längst bak i galleriet. Hon kom in ljusare än månen, med ett ljus i handen, i en vit negligé, hennes huvud fördelaktigt justerat, en vacker knut av ponceauband på bröstets ytterkant, som, halvt avslöjad, gav en stor briljans till världens vackraste bröst.
Don Benigno blev helt bländad av detta, och efter de första komplimangerna drog sig köpmannen tillbaka och lämnade de älskande helt fria att göra som de ville, men allt gjordes fortfarande med ceremoni. Don Benigno kunde inte säga något annat till Diana förutom att han höll på att dö av kärlek till henne, och även om hon lämnade honom friheten att ta sig an allt, vågade han inte dra nytta av det.
Efter att ha dragit sig tillbaka utan att göra någonting skämdes han över sin brist på djärvhet och ville reparera sitt fel, men en andra audiens som beviljades honom offentliggjorde bara hans sökning offentligt, eftersom prins Colombieri, efter att ha hört talas om det, postade sex tappra män som väntade på don Benigno under portalen till Palazzo d'Este, där de presenterade en mörk lykta för hans ansikte för att känna igen honom, efter att ha dragit sig tillbaka omedelbart, som om det hade varit patrull, även om en av dem följde honom på långt håll till Dianas palats.
Don Benigno gjorde ännu ingenting åt saken, och prins Colombieri misslyckades inte vid första tillfället att med beslöjade ord gratulera honom till hans lycka och till antalet av hans älskarinnor som hindrade honom från att kunna tillfredsställa dem alla. Detta, tillsammans med informationen som gavs till honom att prins Colombieri träffade Diana igen, förnyade hans passion, och svartsjukan påverkade honom mer än kärlek. Han klagade på Diana, som föredrog en myndig man framför en ung pojke full av kraft och redo att tillfredsställa damerna när som helst, medan det tog prins Colombieri åtta dagar att förbereda sig för det.
Dessa klagomål upprepades till hertiginnan, ord mot ord, av köpmannen, till vilken hon svarade att don Benigno var värre än prins Colombieri.
»För att«, sade hon, »om det tar den här killen åtta dagar att förbereda sig... Jag har gett mer än tre månader åt den fegis, och han har alltid svikit mig när tillfället kommer!«
»Madama«, svarade köpmannen, »det kan komma från för mycket iver, som det som hände i Frankrike med greven de Guiche.«
»Det spelar ingen roll«, svarade Diana. »Det kan hända en gång, men en man full av kraft är det aldrig mer än vid dessa tillfällen.«
Köpmannen visste inte vad han skulle svara för att försvara en så dålig sak.
»Föreställ dig, min stackars Claude«, fortsatte hon, »att din vän är raka motsatsen till skorpionerna som sticker med sina svansar eftersom han bara sticker med tungan. Så vi måste vara försiktiga med dessa höga, spinkiga slynglar som ser bra ut men som duger inte.«
Köpmannen sade då till henne, för att avleda uppmärksamheten: »Madama, en medellängd man, breda axlar, ådriga och muskulösa lemmar, svart hår, brunt ansikte, full av kraft, 35 år gammal, ögon ljusa och fulla av eld... Även om den här mannen inte är snygg annars, skulle han vara bra för något?«
»Mycket bra«, sade hon; »det är så vi gillar dem. Det är för kvinnor att vara vackra och för män att köra lansen bra, men Ni ser ju väldigt mycket ut som den mannen.«
Hon låg vårdslöst på sin vilosäng, med avtäckt bröst, och i en mycket trevande hållning, när någon kom för att knacka på hennes dörr för att varna henne att kardinal Colonna var längst ner i trappan, som hade kommit för att besöka henne. Hon reste sig genast, tog sin huvudbonad och gick för att möta Hans Eminens medan köpmannen gick in i ett skåp och därifrån in i garderoben, varifrån han gick genom en hemlig trappa.
Han gick för att finna don Benigno för att berätta för honom att om han inte behandlade Diana bättre, skulle det tvinga honom att förnya förbindelserna med prins Colombieri, men han tog saken på fel sätt, eller så använde han denna förevändning för att göra slut med Diana. Han sade att han inte ville ha kvarlevorna av prins Colombieri, som var den gememsamme tjuren i Rom och som hade vissa sjukdomar som man inte var särskilt glad att få.
Men prins Colombieri var då vid perfekt hälsa, och hertiginnan frisk som en fisk. Till sist såg don Benigno inte hertiginnan igen, och trots henne undanhöll han ett av hennes brev, som han inte lämnade tillbaka till henne förrän han blev präst.
All hämnd hon kunde ta var att håna honom med drottningen, av vilken hon var högt ansedd. När de talade om honom tillsammans var det bara med största förakt. De behandlade honom som den mest eländiga av män och laddade honom alltid med någon ny förolämpning.
Drottningen, som var mycket fri i sitt tal och som uttalade ord på franska som hon skulle ha skämts över att säga på sitt eget språk, eftersom det finns ord som inte gör lika mycket intryck på ett främmande språk som på hennes eget, sade en dag till Diana att hon inte trodde att det fanns ett epitet som passade honom bättre än en skurk.
Hertiginnan applåderade henne, och de sade båda unisont: »Till djävulen med skurken!«
Don Benigno vågade inte gå till drottningen igen, även om han var van att gå dit ofta, särskilt när hon höll sin Akademi, där de finaste sinnena i Rom fanns. Han tog som en förevändning att han inte ville traktera markisen del Monte som Excellens, som drottningen nyss upphöjt till ämbetet för överstallmästare; och trots Hennes Majestät tvingade han sin syster, prinsessan Altamira, att driva bort en page hon hade som var bror till signora Ottavia och som hon hade tagit till drottningens konsideration.
English translation (by Hollingworth):
Among the Cardinals that frequented the Queens Box, Cardinal Benedetto Odeschalchi never failed so much as one Night being there during all the five Years, the Queen maintain'd her said Box in the Theatre, but after the Elevation of this very Cardinal to the Popedom, he changing his Humour and Conduct both at once, endeavour'd to destroy the Playhouse, wherein he had formerly taken so much pleasure. And to bring it the more effectually to pass, he made a rigorous Edict, which yet remains in force, by which he forbids all Women to Rehearse any Part upon the Stage, he liking rather that young Musitians should play those Parts, and be cloathed in their Habits contrary to the express prohibition of the Sacred Scripture, which forbids Men to wear Womens Apparel, as being an Abomination before God. The Novelty of this Spectacle drew such vast numbers of People thither, that they had much ado to get Entrance for Money. For at that time was a great Concourse of Strangers of Quality there, who had brought with them the Newest Modes from abroad, which the Roman Cavaliers imitated, and made themselves all fine and gallant.
There was one among the rest who was of the first Rank, and surpass'd them all in richness of Cloaths, his Stature was middle sized, the Features of his Face rarely compos'd, his Eyes black and as lively as those of the finest Roman Ladies, he had a happy Physiognomy, and a Head of Hair which made him one of the handsomest Gentlemen in Italy. He Sung and Play'd rarely well upon divers sorts of Instruments, was a great lover of Poetry, and had also himself compos'd three fine Pieces. Happy indeed, if with all these Advantages he would have Corresponded with the Ladies Desires, for there was more than one who were willing to have put him to the Proof; but he made no answer to their Attempts, as we shall presently acquaint you. He was then in the Flower of his Youth, being entred into the twenty third Year of his Age, and his Blood boyl'd in his Veins, which made him appear all Spirit.
The Queen seeing this young Lord in a Box just over against her, as he was making a profound Bow to her, immediately felt an extraordinary Emotion, by looking upon him, and having learnt his Quality and personal Merit, it augmented the Esteem which this Princess began to have for him, and she could not forbear casting her Eyes towards his Box very often. A little while after one of Her Majesties Valets de Chambre, who had been an old experienc'd Gamester at Love Intrigues, hearing the Queen one Day speak many kind things of this young Prince, and at the same time say, She had a mind to have her Hair cut, took his opportunity to tell her; "Madam" (said he) "the Prince Don Benigno" (for that was the Name of this young Lord) "has a Valet de Chambre a Perriwig-maker, who cuts Hair rarely well." The Queen ravisht with the Thoughts of having an occasion to speak well of a Person for whom she had so strong an Inclination, sent for the Perriwig-maker, who performing his Office according to her Desire, after having spoken very advantagiously of his Master, gave him ten Pistols. One of the Queens Officers was afterwards with the Prince, who told him, That he was extreamly joyful that the Queen had so far honour'd him as to make use of one of his Servants; to which the Officer answered in few words, but setting forth the Queens admirable Qualities in the choicest Expressions he could invent. The Prince mightily extoll'd her, and Her Majesty was inform'd of all he said to her Advantage, and was infinitely pleased with it.
Another time she sent to the Prince to desire him to let her see one of his Perriwigs; she tried it on, and made a short one of the same colour, being of a fair and bright colour, which she wore many times afterwards. When the Queen was in private among her Women, there was nothing to be heard but the Praises of Don Benigno, and no other Subject could afford her so much pleasure as that. One of her Maids a great Favourite at that time, who was very handsome and well shap'd, call'd Signora Octavia, hearing her speak so often in the praise of this young Prince, fell in Love with him, but not daring to discover her Affection, she consum'd and pin'd away. The Queen was troubled, and seeing her thus Languish without knowing the Cause, oblig'd her to go and take the Country Air. Octavia chose to go to Frascati, as being one of the most delicious Places about Rome, where the greatest part of the Cardinals, and Gentlemen of Rome had Vineyards and Houses of Pleasure, which look'd like so many Enchanted Places. Don Benigno had one there which was none of the least, and he was actually himself there, enjoying the Pleasures of the delicate Season of the Spring. The Queen gave Octavia two Calashes cover'd, and two Lacquies; and she brought her Mother, Sister, and some other Women along with her, and for Valet de Chambre she would have that Intriguing Purveyour who had been employ'd in the Queens Amours. Arriving at Frascati, they alighted in a private place, because they would incommode no Body, and the Train stay'd at the Stables of the delicious Vineyard of Aldobrandina, where they were well receiv'd because of the Queens Liveries, by the Orders of Madam the Princess di Rossano. Achelmere (for that is the Name of the Purveyor) took care of preparing the Dinner, while the Women went to Mass at the Capuchins, and in the way met Don Benigno by chance. Octavia turn'd her self aside, that she might hide the Blushes which appear'd in her Face, though they render'd her yet more beautiful. There was only a single Salute on either side, and after the walking of a Turn or two, they return'd to a slender Dinner at their Lodging; for in Italy People are very Sober, when they live at their own Expences. However, she eat with a good Appetite, and reproach'd Achelmere for being so sparing. While these things were doing a Footman came from the Prince, who brought in a Man that carried a great Vermilion Bason, whose outside was gilt with Gold, full of most exquisite Viands, and desired to speak with the Conductor. Achelmere presented himself, and the Footman told him, That the Prince Don Benigno had sent him a small Trifle to make merry with the Company, and to drink his Health; and at the same time another Person appear'd, who was loaded with twelve Bottles of most delicate Wine. The Regale was most agreeably received, and they thanked the Prince in most submissive and acknowledging Terms. Octavia cast a glance upon the Conductor, as a sign that the Regale was for her sake; and after having well enjoy'd themselves, and repos'd for some Hours, they had a Mind to go to the Vineyard of Aldobrandina, or Belvedere, as well for the Walk, as to see the wonderful Cascades, or Falls of Water, which cause so much Admiration to Strangers. Passing by a Vault which leads to the first Tarrass to avoid the Sun, they met Don Benigno, who was walking there in Company[.] Achelmere made him a profound Reverence, and thanked him for his Regale in the Name of the Company, who partook with him in the Obligations they all had to so generous a Lord. The Prince smil'd and said, It was only a Trifle, and did not deserve to be mention'd; that he would have offer'd the Ladies an Apartment in his Palace, with all necessary Conveniences, but that he had not done it, for fear of burthening them with incommodious Civilities, seeing they would think themselves more at Liberty, than either with him, or the Queen, whose Officers should be welcome to him without the least Complement, whensoever it pleas'd Her Majesty. Octavia addressing her self to the Conductor, told him, He was very happy to be so much consider'd by his Excellency. The Prince answer'd, That he had a Value for them all in general. "Do not envy my Happiness, Madam", (says Alchelmere) "'tis only for your sake that his Excellence considers us, never [a] Prince had so great a Regard for the Ladies as himself, but at this time I am in possession of a great part of his Bounty, having had the Honour of being his Servant a long time ago." This was spoke only en passant; but the glances of the Eye have a more passionate Language: But the Prince immediately left them, in order to rejoyn his Company, who were already got at a considerable distance. After they had seen the Vineyard and the Cascades, they return'd to Rome the same Night; and the Queen who would know all the particulars of the Voyage, was extreamly pleas'd with the Prince's Gallantry. She was the best Mistress in the World, when she was in a good Humour, and she seem'd to take it ill, that her Maids had not stay'd three or four days in the Country. Two days after the Prince came to Rome, and sent to seek Archelmere, to ask him who that Maid was, for whom he already felt so strong an Inclination. Achelmere told him, it was Signora Octavia, That she was one of the Queen's Confidents; adding withal, that she was charm'd with the Merit of so Accomplish'd a Prince. The Glances she often gave him at several other Meetings, caus'd him perfectly to understand it. Words are seldom made use of in Italy; and they can manage an Intrigue well enough without 'em. But the Prince, who shew'd so much Ardor at first, relented presently, knowing that Octavia would consent without much Entreaty, though she had taken precautions not to suffer an immediate Shipwrack. However it was, some odd Reflection or other chang'd the Prince's mind, for he went to the Rendesvouze, and after that, Octavia conceiv'd an implacable Spight against him, whilst her Introducer was Confounded, and gain'd nothing but Hatred on both sides.
On the other hand, the Queen, who as yet knew not the Prince's cold temper, gave him sufficient Hints, both by Signs and dark Speeches, as she found Opportunity, that himself was the cause if he were not Happy. They had much ado to assure him, that he might dispose of the Queen's Person, seeing he possess'd her Heart already; but he would never pass the bounds of the most innocent Gallantry. The more the Obstacles were broke, the more reserv'd he became, though afar off out of Danger, he testified a great deal of Ardour to meet the Queen's Flame, who despair'd to make any thing of him, by reason of his Fearfulness and over great Respect. He was offer'd what Security he pleas'd, that the Queen her self should come incognito to what Place he pleas'd, and that she should be at his Disposal; but the very conceit made him Abhor it. At last the Queen was perfectly asham'd to explain her self too clearly; and the Rage to find her self Slighted, converted her Love into implacable Hate; and if she did not take a solemn Revenge, it was to be look'd upon only as an effect of her Goodness: So dangerous a thing it is to be either Lov'd or Hated by Great Persons.
If the Prince had refus'd the Queen only, it might have been said, That the fear of falling into the same Misfortune with the Marquiss Monaldeschi, had hinder'd him. But he has also despis'd the Fires of many other Ladies, who have accus'd him of Impotence, or a Timidity unworthy of his Rank: for the World does not esteem a Person who contains himself within a Principle of Religion. We have seen how his Courage fail'd him in his Intrigues with Octavia; and we shall find presently, that he shewed no greater, in the case of a fair Dutchess, who had all the Qualities requisite to make a Lady Belov'd. 'Twas said, that Prince Columbieri had Lov'd her a little before Don Benigno had settled his Affections there, and that he was very well satisfied. Don Benigno finding the place vacant when he enterpriz'd the Conquest of Diana's Heart, for that was the Name of the Dutchess; first made use of a Porter to a numerous Community, who had Victory for their Arms, but not finding him fit for Management, employ'd a French Merchant that liv'd near to St. Augustin's, because he Serv'd the Dutchess, and was very capable to manage an Amorous Intrigue. After a thousand Caresses, he open'd his Design to him, and promis'd him Mountains and Wonders as Lovers us'd to do, and put the conduct of his Affairs into his Hand.
As soon as this Confident came to the Dutchess, under pretence of bringing her a new French Stuff, he fell on the reading of a Billet while her Back was turn'd, but suffer'd himself to be Surpriz'd. The Dutchess ask'd what it was? The Merchant, who was Familiar with her, told her it was the Pleasantest Paper in the World, and that it was a Billet of Love in behalf of the Person he Esteem'd most. "I'm resolv'd I will see it", said Diana. "Hold, Madam", answers this rare Merchant, "or otherwise you will be my Confident." She snatch'd it from him, and read these words. "Madam, the Prince Don Benigno Adores you, and has charg'd me to let you understand it; I could wish that for the repose of his Love, you would hear it from himself; I am sure you would take Pity of him, if you know the Torments he indures for you, and if you will give me the liberty I will acquaint you with the rest by word of Mouth." I must own that this confident Tradesman was as fit an Instrument as could be thought of for this Affair, provided he ran no Risque; for a Woman is always pleas'd when she is perswaded she is Amiable. This Princess, whose Curiosity carry'd her to read this Billet, believing it to be another thing, was Surpriz'd at this new way of hearing her self to be Belov'd, and became as a Rose, remaining perfectly Silent for some time in a Confusion, which shew'd a strong agitation of her Mind.
The Duke her Husband entred the Chamber at the same time, to see the Stuff the Merchant had brought before they cut it, and seeing the Dutchess in a great Trouble, ask'd her if she were not satisfied with so fine a Stuff, which appear'd to him to be very Rich. She testified her Content, but said she would willingly have it all, because the Princess of Sonino had a Mantua and Petticoat very like that which she had before. "The Secret", saith the Merchant, "is to take whole Piece, for I assure you there is no more such in Rome." "Claude has Reason", says the Duke, "and I would counsel you to buy the whole Piece, if it be not too Dear; as to the rest, I believe he will be Faithful." "Yes Monseigneur", says the Merchant, "Madam may reckon that I will be Secret in that, and every other thing, and at the foot of the Account 30 Pistols, more or less ought not to hinder her Excellence from taking a Stuff which is the most in Mode, and especially when there will be none like it for a long time." "See what an Admirable Fellow this is", says the good Husband, "buy it Madam, but take care to see the Stuff well Measur'd."
There was nothing else worthy of Remark which pass'd in this first Interview; and the Merchant went immediately to give Don Benigno an account of his Negotiation. The Prince finding his Declaration very Ingenious, Embraced the Merchant, and told him, that he had begun very well, and pray'd him to continue it till such time as he was Happy. Two days after, he came again to bring her the Lining of her Garment, and she had been impatient to see him; but by a Slyness peculiar to Ladies, when they have a regard to Decency, she expected when he would begin. Being then alone with her, he desir'd to know of her, what effect his Billet had produc'd; She sat down upon her Couch, and said, with a seeming Carelessness, that she made no account of it; and that she was unwilling to embark her self in an Amour with a young Man who was over Bold, that presum'd too much of himself, and because he was a fine Youth, believ'd himself a Narcissus. The Merchant assur'd her, that the Prince had an inviolable and inseperable Affection for her; and that as his Passion could not be greater, so his Respect and Fidelity would not be the less. Upon these assurances, she told the Merchant, "Monsieur Claude", said she, "I beg of you not to Flatter me with any hope, till I have made Trial, for under pretence of guarding all the measures that are necessary, I shall find whether he will persevere or no." She then confessed to the Merchant, that she had some inclination for him, and that he should not be unhappy upon her Account.
I believe she had reason to say this, for she perfectly knew the Person of whom she spake; for without doubt, if his Vigour had answer'd his Presumption, he had wherewithal to please the Ladies. However, he was yet such a Novice, that he thought 'twas sufficient to tell a Lady he was Amorous of her, to oblige her to have the same Passion for him. But he found in the Person of Diana, a Woman that knew how to teach People Manners, and instruct him how to Live.
One day Don Benigno being at Frescati, was Attack'd by three Ladies, who believing themselves Handsome, set with their Tongues very briskly upon him. One of them was the Marchioness Nari, who told him in Railery, That as Beautiful and fine Shap'd as he was, he had found the Ladies Cruel: that they had hear'd news of his Affairs, and were oblig'd to that beautiful Person to whom he paid his Vows, for preserving in him a respect for the Sex. He was stung with these Words, but kept still to his indifference for the Ladies; nevertheless his vanity being excited, he was resolv'd to make use of all things to make himself Beloved of Diana. And he did very well at first, for after he had given some Signs of Perseverance, he made a Present to the Dutchess, of a Silk Stuff with a blew Ground, strip'd with Silver Columns, interwoven with most beautiful Leaves Flowers both of Gold and Silver, to a great Value. To conceal this from the Duke, the Dutchess made him believe that the Merchant was content with the third part in Money, and for the rest he would take Wheat and Wine, at so much per Month, till 'twas all paid. The Duke was very glad of it; for in Rome the Great Lords have oftentimes but little Money, because they Farm a great part of their Estates themselves, and have but few Tenants that pay them in ready Money.
The Dutchess after this, became a little more Familiar with Don Benigno; and the Carneval being come, the Prince often went out in Masquerade, wearing a short Cloak furr'd with Ermines, with a small Cuff edg'd with Bone-lace, and a red Ribban on his Head, which was the Signal to make himself known by. Diana was in the Balcony as the Train went along, and look'd upon him with a sweet and Languishing Eye; and they saw one another at Comedies, and danc'd together at Balls; but this afforded only an opportunity of speaking some few Words by Stealth, the Italian Jealousie not permitting a regular Conversation at such times. He would willingly have obtain'd some Favour from Diana, but she had a mind to make him value the thing, however, she promis'd that she would find an opportunity in the Lent time to satisfie his Desires.
The first Week being come, the Rendesvouze was agreed upon, which was to be in a Garden near St. Sabina, upon Mount Aventine, into which there is an entrance at two different Gates. Don Benigno came there in a close Coach, which was left about Fifty Paces from the Privy Gate. The Dutchess who came by the great Gate, receiv'd him very agreeably, while his Confident entertain'd her Associate, till such time they had insensibly got a good distance from them. Diana who for this time had a mind only to Amuse the Prince, order'd her Follower not to lose sight of her; and she oblig'd her, though she kept her self out of Call. The Conversation lasted about half an Hour with equal Satisfaction. Don Benigno was very well content with this first Interview; but as in Italy they have but little liberty of seeing one another, he desir'd the favour to write to her, and the pleasure of Receiving her Answers. Diana made a great difficulty of this, and said, there was less danger in satisfying a Lover, by yielding the last Favours, than to write to him and receive his Letters; because if a Lover should boast of Privacies with his Mistress, (as it often happen'd) she had power to deny it all; but as for Letters, the Characters being once known, they were certain and undesirable Testimonies. At last, by the the means of Prayers and Intreaties, he obtain'd so far as to have Billets, upon condition he sent them back in his Answers. All these Difficulties being Surmounted, the conclusion of some twenty Letters were made by a Rendezvous with Diana at a certain Hour, at which Don Benigno did not fail.
He came very late at Night with his Confident, and they enter'd by the Back-Gate of the Lady's Palace. They wrap'd their Faces in their Cloaks, and mounted a pair of Stairs without seeing any Body, till they came to the uttermost Lanthorn, where they found a Gentleman, Don Arimatheia, Brother to Diana, who looking upon them a little, went away, and said Laughing, "God send you good Luck, my Friends." Being come into a little Gallery, which led into Clarice's Chamber, Diana's Follower: They were not yet at the end of their Troubles; for having shut up their dark Lanthorns, they knew not where they went. The Merchant, who knew the Passages, went first, groaping the way, but thought he should have been Strangled by the Prince, because he pull'd him so hard by the Cloak. At last, after a Labyrinth of turnings, they entred into a little Chamber, where the first thing they saw, was the Head of a Bed, and a Crucifix upon it Ten Foot high. Above It was a small Picture of St. Francis, encompass'd with a Chaplet about an Ell long, and the Bed was not above two Foot high from the Ground.
Don Benigno had put on a black Perriwig instead of the light Hair'd one, which he always wore, and Combing it, expected when the Nymph would arrive, assuring himself, that he was prepar'd for the Combat, and carried good Arms to attack and batter the Fort in a most regular manner. A little after, the Dutchess appear'd at the further end of the Gallery, and came brighter and more sparkling than the Moon; she had a Wax Candle in her hand, her Habit loose and white, and her Head dress'd very advantagiously. She had a fine Knot of red Ribbands on her Breast, which being but half discover'd, gave a great lustre to one of the finest Necks in the World. Don Benigno was somewhat in a Maze at her Approach, till after the first Compliments were over: Then the Merchant retir'd, leaving the Lovers at full liberty to do what they pleas'd. But all pass'd in Ceremonies, Don Benigno knew not how to say any other thing to Diana, than that he died for Love of her, and that though she left him at liberty to enterprize any thing, yet he durst not attempt what he most desir'd. So going away without doing what was expected. He was afterwards asham'd of his Bashfulness, and had a great mind to repair his fault: But a second Audience which was agree'd to, did nothing but divulge the Secret; so that Prince Columbieri having got the Wind of it, procured six Fellows to wait for Don Benigno under the Portal of the Palace D'Estre, where presenting a dark Lanthorn to his Face, that they might know him, they retir'd presently, as if they had been the Round, though one of them follow'd him at a distance, as far as Diana's Palace. There Don Benigno got admittance, but was on purpose Baffled as before: From which the Prince Columbieri did not fail upon the first occasion to congratulate him upon the number of his Mistresses, which he told him, hindred his being able to satisfie them all.
This join'd to the Advice he had that the Prince Columbieri saw Diana again, renew'd his Passion, Jealousie working a more powerful Effect upon him than Love. He complain'd of Diana that she preferr'd an old Man before a Youth full of Vigour, and ready to satisfie the Ladies at all times, whereas the Prince Columbieri must have eight Days to prepare himself. These Complaints were carried to the Dutchess by the Merchant, word for word; to whom she answer'd, that Don Benigno was worse than the Prince Columbieri; "for", said she, "if he must have eight Days to prepare himself, I have given that Poultron more than three Months, and he has always fail'd me in the occasion." "Madam", reply'd the Merchant, "that may happen through too much Ardour, as it did in France to the Count de Guiche." "Fie, fie", answer'd Diana, "that's a meer Trifle; for though it may once happen so, yet a Man of Vigour is never more distinguished then upon such occasions." The Merchant knew not what to answer in defence of so ill a cause. "Believe me honest Claud[e]" (pursued she) "your Friend is not like the Scorpions which sting with their Tail; for he stings only with his Tongue; and we ought to distrust those great Boasters, which make a fair Appearance, and are good for nothing." The Merchant then to divert her, said, "Madam, a Man of an indifferent Stature, large Shoulders, brawny Limbs, and full of Muscles, that has black Hair, a brown Visage, and full of Vigour, is 35 Years old, with Eyes sparkling and fill'd with Fire: And as to the rest, though the Man be not handsome, is he good for nothing?" "Very good", said she, "that is as we love; 'tis for Women to be fair, and for Men to be brisk, and methinks you do very much resemble that Man." She then lay upon her fine downy Couch, with her Breasts naked, in a very tempting posture, when at that instant one came and scratch'd at the door to give notice that Cardinal Colonna was below and come to make her a Visit. She arose in haste, took her Coif, and went to the Cardinal, while the Merchant slipp'd into a Closet, and from thence into the Wardrobe, and afterwards went his way by a private pair of Stairs. He went then to Don Benigno to tell him that if he did not use Diana better, it would oblige her to renew her Friendship with Prince Colombieri; but he took the thing wrong, and made use of this pretence to break off with Diana. He said he would not have the Leavings of Prince Colombieri, who was the Town-Bull of Rome, and had certain Distempers which he should be sorry to contract; yet the Prince Colombieri was very well and in perfect Health; so was the Dutchess also fresh, and sound as a Roach.
To be short, Don Benigno went to the Dutchess no more, and, to spite her, kept one of her Letters, which he was resolved never to restore. All the Revenge she could take, was to laugh at him with the Queen, with whom she was very great: When they spoke of him together, it was with the uttermost Contempt; they treated him as the most wretched Man living, and ever loaded him with all the Jeers and Affronts they could invent. And the Queen who took a great liberty of Speech, had certain Expressions for him in French, which she was asham'd to speak there in the Italian Language, because those Terms do not make such an Impression in a strange Language as in our own, told Diana one day she had found a Nick-name which agreed with him best of any, which was "Limberham" or "Fumbler". The Dutchess applauded it, and both in concert cried, "Let the Devil take the Fumbler."
Don Benigno durst come no more to the Queen's, though he us'd to go thither very often, and particularly when she kept her Academy, whither also the finest Wits in Rome resorted; and he took the pretence of being unwilling to have any Conversation with the Marquis del Monte, whom the Queen had made great Master of her Horse; and, to spite her Majesty, he oblig'd his Sister the Princess Altamira, to turn away the Page she had, who was Brother to Seignora Octavia, and which she had taken out of respect to the Queen.
With modernised spelling and punctuation for easier reading:
Among the cardinals that frequented the Queen's box, Cardinal Benedetto Odeschalchi never failed so much as one night being there during all the five years the Queen maintained her said box in the theater; but, after the elevation of this very cardinal to the popedom, he changing his humour and conduct both at once, endeavoured to destroy the playhouse wherein he had formerly taken so much pleasure.
And, to bring it the more effectually to pass, he made a rigorous edict which yet remains in force, by which he forbids all women to rehearse any part upon the stage, he liking rather that young musicians should play those parts and be clothed in their habits contrary to the express prohibition of the Sacred Scripture, which forbids men to wear women's apparel, as being an abomination before God.
The novelty of this spectacle drew such vast numbers of people thither that they had much ado to get entrance for money, for at that time was a great concourse of strangers of quality there who had brought with them the newest modes from abroad, which the Roman cavaliers imitated and made themselves all fine and gallant.
There was one among the rest who was of the first rank and surpassed them all in richness of clothes. His stature was middle sized, the features of his face rarely composed, his eyes black and as lively as those of the finest Roman ladies. He had a happy physiognomy and a head of hair which made him one of the handsomest gentlemen in Italy. He sung and played rarely well upon diverse sorts of instruments, was a great lover of poetry, and had also himself composed three fine pieces.
Happy indeed if, with all these advantages, he would have corresponded with the ladies' desires, for there was more than one who were willing to have put him to the proof; but he made no answer to their attempts, as we shall presently acquaint you. He was then in the flower of his youth, being entered into the twenty-third year of his age, and his blood boiled in his veins, which made him appear all spirit.
The Queen, seeing this young lord in a box just over against her, as he was making a profound bow to her, immediately felt an extraordinary emotion by looking upon him; and, having learnt his quality and personal merit, it augmented the esteem which this princess began to have for him, and she could not forbear casting her eyes towards his box very often.
A little while after, one of Her Majesty's valets de chambre, who had been an old, experienced gamester at love intrigues, hearing the Queen one day speak many kind things of this young prince and at the same time say she had a mind to have her hair cut, took his opportunity to tell her:
"Madame", said he, "the Prince Don Benigno" — (for that was the name of this young lord) — "has a valet de chambre, a periwig maker, who cuts hair rarely well."
The Queen, ravished with the thoughts of having an occasion to speak well of a person for whom she had so strong an inclination, sent for the periwig maker, who, performing his office according to her desire, after having spoken very advantagiously of his master, gave him ten pistoles.
One of the Queen's officers was afterwards with the Prince, who told him that he was extremely joyful that the Queen had so far honoured him as to make use of one of his servants, to which the officer answered in few words, but setting forth the Queen's admirable qualities in the choicest expressions he could invent. The Prince mightily extolled her, and Her Majesty was informed of all he said to her advantage and was infinitely pleased with it.
Another time, she sent to the Prince to desire him to let her see one of his periwigs. She tried it on and made a short one of the same colour, being of a fair and bright colour, which she wore many times afterwards.
When the Queen was in private among her women, there was nothing to be heard but the praises of Don Benigno, and no other subject could afford her so much pleasure as that. One of her maids, a great favourite at that time, who was very handsome and well-shaped, called Signora Ottavia, hearing her speak so often in the praise of this young prince, fell in love with him; but, not daring to discover her affection, she consumed and pined away.
The Queen was troubled and, seeing her thus languish without knowing the cause, obliged her to go and take the country air. Ottavia chose to go to Frascati, as being one of the most delicious places about Rome, where the greatest part of the cardinals and gentlemen of Rome had vineyards and houses of pleasure, which looked like so many enchanted places. Don Benigno had one there which was none of the least, and he was actually himself there, enjoying the pleasures of the delicate season of the spring.
The Queen gave Ottavia two calashes covered, and two lackeys; and she brought her mother, sister and some other women along with her, and for valet de chambre she would have that intriguing purveyor who had been employed in the Queen's amours.
Arriving at Frascati, they alighted in a private place because they would incommode nobody, and the train stayed at the stables of the delicious vineyard of Aldobrandina, where they were well received because of the Queen's liveries by the orders of Madame the Princess di Rossano. Aikelmer (for that is the name of the purveyor) took care of preparing the dinner while the women went to Mass at the Capuchins', and in the way met Don Benigno by chance.
Ottavia turned herself aside that she might hide the blushes which appeared in her face, though they rendered her yet more beautiful. There was only a single salute on either side, and after the walking of a turn or two, they returned to a slender dinner at their lodging, for in Italy people are very sober when they live at their own expenses. However, she eat with a good appetite and reproached Aikelmer for being so sparing.
While these things were doing, a footman came from the Prince, who brought in a man that carried a great vermillion basin whose outside was gilt with gold, full of most exquisite viands, and desired to speak with the conductor. Aikelmer presented himself, and the footman told him that the Prince Don Benigno had sent him a small trifle to make merry with the company and to drink his health; and at the same time another person appeared, who was loaded with twelve bottles of most delicate wine.
The regale was most agreeably received, and they thanked the Prince in most submissive and acknowledging terms. Ottavia cast a glance upon the conductor as a sign that the regale was for her sake; and, after having well enjoyed themselves and reposed for some hours, they had a mind to go to the vineyard of Aldobrandina, or Belvedere, as well for the walk, as to see the wonderful cascades, or falls of water, which cause so much admiration to strangers.
Passing by a vault which leads to the first terrace to avoid the sun, they met Don Benigno, who was walking there in company. Aikelmer made him a profound reverence and thanked him for his regale in the name of the company, who partook with him in the obligations they all had to so generous a lord. The Prince smiled and said it was only a trifle and did not deserve to be mentioned, that he would have offered the ladies an apartment in his palace with all necessary conveniences, but that he had not done it for fear of burdening them with incommodious civilities, seeing they would think themselves more at liberty than either with him or the Queen, whose officers should be welcome to him without the least compliment whensoever it pleased Her Majesty.
Ottavia, addressing herself to the conductor, told him he was very happy to be so much considered by His Excellency. The Prince answered that he had a value for them all in general.
"Do not envy my happiness, Madame", says Aikelmer; "'tis only for your sake that His Excellence considers us. Never [a] prince had so great a regard for the ladies as himself, but at this time I am in possession of a great part of his bounty, having had the honour of being his servant a long time ago."
This was spoke only en passant, but the glances of the eye have a more passionate language. But the Prince immediately left them in order to rejoin his company, who were already got at a considerable distance.
After they had seen the vineyard and the cascades, they returned to Rome the same night; and the Queen, who would know all the particulars of the voyage, was extremely pleased with the Prince's gallantry. She was the best mistress in the world when she was in a good humour, and she seemed to take it ill that her maids had not stayed three or four days in the country.
Two days after, the Prince came to Rome and sent to seek Aikelmer to ask him who that maid was, for whom he already felt so strong an inclination. Aikelmer told him it was Signora Ottavia, that she was one of the Queen's confidantes, adding withal that she was charmed with the merit of so accomplished a prince. The glances she often gave him at several other meetings caused him perfectly to understand it. Words are seldom made use of in Italy, and they can manage an intrigue well enough without 'em.
But the Prince, who shewed so much ardour at first, relented presently, knowing that Ottavia would consent without much entreaty, though she had taken precautions not to suffer an immediate shipwreck. However it was, some odd reflection or other changed the Prince's mind, for he went to the rendezvous; and after that, Ottavia conceived an implacable spite against him, whilst her introducer was confounded and gained nothing but hatred on both sides.
On the other hand, the Queen, who as yet knew not the Prince's cold temper, gave him sufficient hints, both by signs and dark speeches, as she found opportunity, that himself was the cause if he were not happy. They had much ado to assure him that he might dispose of the Queen's person, seeing he possessed her heart already; but he would never pass the bounds of the most innocent gallantry.
The more the obstacles were broke, the more reserved he became. Though afar off out of danger, he testified a great deal of ardour to meet the Queen's flame, who despaired to make anything of him, by reason of his fearfulness and over great respect. He was offered what security he pleased that the Queen herself should come incognito to what place he pleased and that she should be at his disposal, but the very conceit made him abhor it.
At last the Queen was perfectly ashamed to explain herself too clearly, and the rage to find herself slighted converted her love into implacable hate; and if she did not take a solemn revenge, it was to be looked upon only as an effect of her goodness. So dangerous a thing it is to be either loved or hated by great persons.
If the Prince had refused the Queen only, it might have been said that the fear of falling into the same misfortune with the Marquis Monaldeschi had hindered him. But he has also despised the fires of many other ladies, who have accused him of impotence or a timidity unworthy of his rank, for the world does not esteem a person who contains himself within a principle of religion. We have seen how his courage failed him in his intrigues with Ottavia, and we shall find presently that he shewed no greater in the case of a fair duchess who had all the qualities requisite to make a lady beloved.
'Twas said that Prince Colombieri had loved her a little before Don Benigno had settled his affections there and that he was very well satisfied. Don Benigno, finding the place vacant when he enterprised the conquest of Diana's heart (for that was the name of the Duchess), first made use of a porter to a numerous community who had victory for their arms; but, not finding him fit for management, employed a French merchant that lived near to St. Augustine's, because he served the Duchess and was very capable to manage an amorous intrigue. After a thousand caresses, he opened his design to him and promised him mountains and wonders, as lovers used to do, and put the conduct of his affairs into his hand.
As soon as this confidant came to the Duchess, under pretence of bringing her a new French stuff, he fell on the reading of a billet while her back was turned, but suffered himself to be surprised. The Duchess asked what it was. The merchant, who was familiar with her, told her it was the pleasantest paper in the world and that it was a billet of love in behalf of the person he esteemed most.
"I'm resolved I will see it", said Diana.
"Hold, Madame", answers this rare merchant, "or otherwise you will be my confidant."
She snatched it from him and read these words:
"Madame,
The Prince Don Benigno adores you and has charged me to let you understand it. I could wish that, for the repose of his love, you would hear it from himself; I am sure you would take pity of him if you know the torments he endures for you, and, if you will give me the liberty, I will acquaint you with the rest by word of mouth."
I must own that this confident tradesman was as fit an instrument as could be thought of for this affair, provided he ran no risk, for a woman is always pleased when she is persuaded she is amiable.
This princess, whose curiosity carried her to read this billet, believing it to be another thing, was surprised at this new way of hearing herself to be beloved and became as a rose, remaining perfectly silent for some time in a confusion which shewed a strong agitation of her mind.
The Duke, her husband, entered the chamber at the same time to see the stuff the merchant had brought before they cut it, and, seeing the Duchess in a great trouble, asked her if she were not satisfied with so fine a stuff, which appeared to him to be very rich. She testified her content, but said she would willingly have it all, because the Princess of Sonnino had a mantua and petticoat very like that which she had before.
"The secret", saith the merchant, "is to take whole piece, for I assure you there is no more such in Rome."
"Claude has reason", says the Duke, "and I would counsel you to buy the whole piece, if it be not too dear; as to the rest, I believe he will be faithful."
"Yes, Monseigneur", says the merchant; "Madame may reckon that I will be secret in that and every other thing, and at the foot of the account 30 pistoles, more or less, ought not to hinder Her Excellence from taking a stuff which is the most in mode, and especially when there will be none like it for a long time."
"See what an admirable fellow this is?", says the good husband. "Buy it, Madame, but take care to see the stuff well measured."
There was nothing else worthy of remark which passed in this first interview; and the merchant went immediately to give Don Benigno an account of his negotiation. The Prince, finding his declaration very ingenious, embraced the merchant and told him that he had begun very well and prayed him to continue it till such time as he was happy.
Two days after, he came again to bring her the lining of her garment, and she had been impatient to see him; but, by a slyness peculiar to ladies when they have a regard to decency, she expected when he would begin.
Being then alone with her, he desired to know of her what effect his billet had produced. She sat down upon her couch and said, with a seeming carelessness, that she made no account of it and that she was unwilling to embark herself in an amour with a young man who was over bold, that presumed too much of himself, and, because he was a fine youth, believed himself a Narcissus.
The merchant assured her that the Prince had an inviolable and inseparable affection for her and that, as his passion could not be greater, so his respect and fidelity would not be the less. Upon these assurances, she told the merchant:
"Monsieur Claude", said she, "I beg of you not to flatter me with any hope till I have made trial, for, under pretense of guarding all the measures that are necessary, I shall find whether he will persevere or no."
She then confessed to the merchant that she had some inclination for him and that he should not be unhappy upon her account.
I believe she had reason to say this, for she perfectly knew the person of whom she spake; for, without doubt, if his vigour had answered his presumption, he had wherewithal to please the ladies. However, he was yet such a novice that he thought 'twas sufficient to tell a lady he was amorous of her to oblige her to have the same passion for him. But he found in the person of Diana a woman that knew how to teach people manners and instruct him how to live.
One day Don Benigno, being at Frascati, was attacked by three ladies who, believing themselves handsome, set with their tongues very briskly upon him. One of them was the Marchioness Nani, who told him in raillery that, as beautiful and fine-shaped as he was, he had found the ladies cruel; that they had heard news of his affairs and were obliged to that beautiful person to whom he paid his vows for preserving in him a respect for the sex.
He was stung with these words, but kept still to his indifference for the ladies; nevertheless, his vanity being excited, he was resolved to make use of all things to make himself beloved of Diana. And he did very well at first, for, after he had given some signs of perseverance, he made a present to the Duchess of a silk stuff with a blue ground, striped with silver columns, interwoven with most beautiful leaves, flowers, both of gold and silver, to a great value.
To conceal this from the Duke, the Duchess made him believe that the merchant was content with the third part in money, and for the rest he would take wheat and wine at so much per month till 'twas all paid. The Duke was very glad of it, for in Rome the great lords have oftentimes but little money, because they farm a great part of their estates themselves and have but few tenants that pay them in ready money.
The Duchess, after this, became a little more familiar with Don Benigno; and the Carnaval being come, the Prince often went out in masquerade, wearing a short cloak furred with ermines, with a small cuff edged with bone lace and a red ribbon on his head, which was the signal to make himself known by.
Diana was in the balcony as the train went along and looked upon him with a sweet and languishing eye; and they saw one another at comedies and danced together at balls, but this afforded only an opportunity of speaking some few words by stealth, the Italian jealousy not permitting a regular conversation at such times. He would willingly have obtained some favour from Diana, but she had a mind to make him value the thing. However, she promised that she would find an opportunity in the Lent-time to satisfy his desires.
The first week being come, the rendezvous was agreed upon, which was to be in a garden near St. Sabina, upon Mount Aventine, into which there is an entrance at two different gates. Don Benigno came there in a close coach, which was left about fifty paces from the privy gate. The Duchess, who came by the great gate, received him very agreeably, while his confident entertained her associate, till such time they had insensibly got a good distance from them.
Diana, who for this time had a mind only to amuse the Prince, ordered her follower not to lose sight of her; and she obliged her, though she kept herself out of call. The conversation lasted about half an hour with equal satisfaction. Don Benigno was very well content with this first interview, but as in Italy they have but little liberty of seeing one another, he desired the favour to write to her and the pleasure of receiving her answers.
Diana made a great difficulty of this and said there was less danger in satisfying a lover by yielding the last favours than to write to him and receive his letters, because if a lover should boast of privacies with his mistress (as it often happened), she had power to deny it all; but as for letters, the characters being once known, they were certain and undesirable testimonies. At last, by the means of prayers and entreaties, he obtained so far as to have billets, upon condition he sent them back in his answers.
All these difficulties being surmounted, the conclusion of some twenty letters were made by a rendezvous with Diana at a certain hour, at which Don Benigno did not fail.
He came very late at night with his confidant, and they entered by the back gate of the lady's palace. They wrapped their faces in their cloaks and mounted a pair of stairs without seeing anybody till they came to the uttermost lantern, where they found a gentleman, Don Arimathea, brother to Diana, who, looking upon them a little, went away, and said laughing: "God send you good luck, my friends!"
Being come into a little gallery, which led into Clarice's chamber, Diana's follower. They were not yet at the end of their troubles, for, having shut up their dark lanterns, they knew not where they went. The merchant, who knew the passages, went first, groping the way, but thought he should have been strangled by the Prince, because he pulled him so hard by the cloak.
At last, after a labyrinth of turnings, they entered into a little chamber, where the first thing they saw was the head of a bed and a crucifix upon it ten foot high. Above It was a small picture of St. Francis, encompassed with a chaplet about an ell long, and the bed was not above two foot high from the ground.
Don Benigno had put on a black periwig instead of the light-haired one, which he always wore, and combing it, expected when the nymph would arrive, assuring himself that he was prepared for the combat and carried good arms to attack and batter the fort in a most regular manner.
A little after, the Duchess appeared at the further end of the gallery and came brighter and more sparkling than the moon. She had a wax candle in her hand, her habit loose and white, and her head dressed very advantageously. She had a fine knot of red ribbons on her breast, which, being but half discovered, gave a great luster to one of the finest necks in the world.
Don Benigno was somewhat in amaze at her approach till after the first compliments were over. Then the merchant retired, leaving the lovers at full liberty to do what they pleased. But all passed in ceremonies. Don Benigno knew not how to say any other thing to Diana than that he died for love of her and that, though she left him at liberty to enterprise anything, yet he durst not attempt what he most desired.
So, going away without doing what was expected, he was afterwards ashamed of his bashfulness and had a great mind to repair his fault; but a second audience which was agreed to did nothing but divulge the secret, so that Prince Colombieri, having got the wind of it, procured six fellows to wait for Don Benigno under the portal of the Palace d'Este, where, presenting a dark lantern to his face that they might know him, they retired presently, as if they had been the round, though one of them followed him at a distance as far as Diana's palace.
There Don Benigno got admittance, but was on purpose baffled as before, from which the Prince Colombieri did not fail upon the first occasion to congratulate him upon the number of his mistresses, which he told him hindered his being able to satisfy them all.
This, joined to the advice he had that the Prince Colombieri saw Diana again, renewed his passion, jealousy working a more powerful effect upon him than love. He complained of Diana that she preferred an old man before a youth full of vigour and ready to satisfy the ladies at all times, whereas the Prince Colombieri must have eight days to prepare himself.
These complaints were carried to the Duchess by the merchant, word for word, to whom she answered that Don Benigno was worse than the Prince Colombieri; "for", said she, "if he must have eight days to prepare himself, I have given that poltroon more than three months, and he has always failed me in the occasion."
"Madame", replied the merchant, "that may happen through too much ardour, as it did in France to the Count de Guiche."
"Fie, fie", answered Diana, "that's a mere trifle; for, though it may once happen so, yet a man of vigour is never more distinguished than upon such occasions."
The merchant knew not what to answer in defense of so ill a cause.
"Believe, me honest Claude", pursued she, "your friend is not like the scorpions which sting with their tail, for he stings only with his tongue; and we ought to distrust those great boasters which make a fair appearance and are good for nothing."
The merchant then, to divert her, said, "Madame, a man of an indifferent stature, large shoulders, brawny limbs and full of muscles, that has black hair, a brown visage, and full of vigour, is 35 years old, with eyes sparkling and filled with fire. And as to the rest, though the man be not handsome, is he good for nothing?"
"Very good", said she, "that is as we love; 'tis for women to be fair and for men to be brisk, and methinks you do very much resemble that man."
She then lay upon her fine, downy couch, with her breasts naked, in a very tempting posture, when at that instant one came and scratched at the door to give notice that Cardinal Colonna was below and come to make her a visit. She arose in haste, took her coif, and went to the Cardinal, while the merchant slipped into a closet and from thence into the wardrobe, and afterwards went his way by a private pair of stairs.
He went then to Don Benigno to tell him that if he did not use Diana better, it would oblige her to renew her friendship with Prince Colombieri; but he took the thing wrong and made use of this pretence to break off with Diana. He said he would not have the leavings of Prince Colombieri, who was the town bull of Rome and had certain distempers which he should be sorry to contract. Yet the Prince Colombieri was very well and in perfect health; so was the Duchess also fresh and sound as a roach.
To be short, Don Benigno went to the Duchess no more, and, to spite her, kept one of her letters, which he was resolved never to restore. All the revenge she could take was to laugh at him with the Queen, with whom she was very great. When they spoke of him together, it was with the uttermost contempt; they treated him as the most wretched man living and ever loaded him with all the jeers and affronts they could invent.
And the Queen, who took a great liberty of speech, had certain expressions for him in French which she was ashamed to speak there in the Italian language, because those terms do not make such an impression in a strange language as in our own, told Diana one day she had found a nickname which agreed with him best of any, which was "Limberham" or "fumbler".
The Duchess applauded it, and both in concert cried: "Let the Devil take the fumbler!"
Don Benigno durst come no more to the Queen's, though he used to go thither very often, and particularly when she kept her Academy, whither also the finest wits in Rome resorted; and he took the pretense of being unwilling to have any conversation with the Marquis del Monte, whom the Queen had made great master of her horse; and, to spite Her Majesty, he obliged his sister the Princess Altamira to turn away the page she had, who was brother to Signora Ottavia, and which she had taken out of respect to the Queen.
English translation (my own; this is more accurate):
Among the cardinals who frequented the Queen's box, Cardinal Benedetto Odescalchi never missed an evening during the five years that the Queen maintained her box at the theater; but, after the creation of the same cardinal to the pontificate, suddenly changing his mood and conduct, he undertook to destroy the theater where he was accustomed to take so much pleasure. And, so as to more easily accomplish this, he made a rigorous edict which still exists, by which he forbade women to recite on the stage, preferring that young musicians play their parts dressed in their clothes, against the express prohibition of Holy Scripture, which forbids men to wear women's clothes because it is an abomination before God.
The novelty of this spectacle attracted everyone, and it was difficult to get in for one's money, for there was at that time a great concourse of distinguished foreigners, and they had brought the newest fashions. The Roman cavaliers imitated them and all made themselves clean and gallant. One among others of the first quality surpassed them in magnificence; he was of a rich stature, the features of his face well-formed, his eyes as black and lively as those of one of the most beautiful ladies of Rome.
He had a happy physiognomy and a parure of the hair which made him one of the most handsome men in Italy. He sang and played perfectly well on all sorts of instruments, a great lover of poetry, and who even composed very beautiful works; happy if, with all these advantages, he had wanted to answer the desires of the ladies, as there was more than one who wanted to put him to the test; but he did not answer their expectations, as we will soon tell. He was then in the prime of his life, in his 23rd year, the blood was boiling in his veins and made him seem all spiritful.
The Queen having seen this young lord in a box next to hers while he was making a deep reverence to her, she felt an extraordinary emotion in looking at him; and, having learned his rank and his personal merit, this increased the esteem that this princess was beginning to have for him; and she could not help casting glances at the box from time to time. Her Majesty's valet de chambre, who was an old hand in amorous intrigues, hearing one day the Queen say so much good of the young prince, took the time while she was going to have her hair cut to say to her: "Madame, Prince Don Benigno" — that was the name of this young lord — "has a valet de chambre, a wigmaker who cuts hair wonderfully."
The Queen, delighted to have the opportunity to speak well of a person for whom she felt such a strong inclination, sent for this wigmaker, who did not fail to carry out her orders according to her desire. She, for her part, had him regaled with ten pistoles, after having spoken favourably of his master.
The Queen's officer being at the Prince's house, he expressed to him the joy he had that Her Majesty had honoured him by using one of his people, to which the officer replied in a few words, exaggerating with choice expressions the Queen's great qualities. The Prince added to these praises, and Her Majesty knew all the favourable things that had been said of her and was delighted at them.
Another time, she sent to ask the Prince for one of his wigs. She tried it on and had a short one made of the same colour, blond and ashen, which she wore for several days.
When the Queen was in private with her girls, nothing was heard but praise of Don Benigno. She had no other entertainment than that. One of her girls, who was then her favourite, very beautiful and well-formed, — she was Signora Ottavia, — having heard the Queen so often praise this young prince, fell in love with him. But, not daring to declare her passion, she wasted herself by becoming dreamy and languid.
The Queen, who suffered to see her in this languor without knowing the cause, obliged her to go and get some air in the country. Ottavia chose to go to Frascati, as to the most delightful place there is around Rome, where most of the Roman cardinals and cavaliers have vineyards or pleasure houses, which seem to be enchanted palaces. That of Don Benigno was not one of the least considerable, and he was there at present enjoying the pleasures of the beautiful season of spring.
The Queen gave Ottavia two covered calèches and two lackeys. Ottavia brought with her her mother, her sister and some other women; and she wished to have as her purveyor this intriguing valet, who had been employed in the Queen's amours.
On arriving at Frascati, they went to stay at a private house, so as not to inconvenience anyone. The train stopped at the stables of the delightful Aldobrandina vineyard, where it was well received because of the Queen's livery, by the orders of the Princess of Rossano. Aikelmer — that was the purveyor's name — took care to have dinner prepared. In the meantime, the covered squadron went to Mass at the Capuchins; on the way they met Don Benigno as if by chance. Ottavia pretended to turn away, so as not to show a little blush that came to her face, although it made her more beautiful.
There was only a simple greeting on both sides; and after going for a few walks, they returned to the house to dine, where they did not find much preparation, for one is very sober in Italy when one lives at one's own expense. Nevertheless, they had a good appetite, and Aikelmer was reproached for his frugality.
In the meantime, a valet de pied of the Prince was seen to arrive, leading a man laden with a large basin of gilded silver, full of very exquisite meats, who asked to speak to the conductor. Aikelmer introduced himself, and the valet de pied told him that the prince Don Benigno was sending him this little trifle to rejoice with his troop and to drink to his health.
At the same time, another man appeared, laden with twelve bottles of a very delicate wine. The regale was received very agreeably; the Prince was thanked in the most submissive and grateful terms. Ottavia cast a glance at the conductor, who made a sign to her that the regale was because of her.
After having well rejoiced and rested for a few hours, they decided to go to the Aldobrandina vineyard or Belvedere, as much to walk as to see the marvellous waterfalls, or jets of water, which are the admiration of foreigners. Passing through an archway that led to the first terrace so as to avoid the sun, they met Don Benigno, who was also walking there in company. Aikelmer, making a deep reverence to him, thanked him for his regale in the name of his company, who shared with him the obligations that everyone had to such a generous lord.
The Prince smiled and said that it was only a trifle that did not deserve to be spoken of, that he would have gladly offered these ladies an apartment in his palazzo with all the necessary conveniences, but that he had not done so, fearing to be a burden to them through inconvenient civilities, and that these ladies had apparently believed themselves to have greater freedom than at his house, where the Queen and her officers had the right to come without ceremony whenever it pleased Her Majesty.
Ottavia, addressing the conductor, told him that he was lucky to be so considered by His Excellency. The prince replied that he had consideration for everyone in general.
"Do not envy my happiness, Madamigella", said Aikelmer; "it will be up to you to be considered by His Excellency. Never has a prince had so much regard for ladies as he, but for this time I am in possession of taking part in his kindness, being his long-standing servant."
This was only said in passing. Glances were a language more passionate than words, and the Prince then left them to go and join the company, which was already far away.
After seeing the vineyard and the waterfalls, they returned the same evening to Rome. The Queen wanted to know all the details of the journey. The Prince's gallantry pleased her greatly, she believed that what he had done was because of her, and one took care not to disabuse her of it. As she was the best mistress in the world when she was in a good humour, she scolded her girls for not having stayed 3 or 4 days in the countryside.
Two days later the Prince returned to Rome. He sent for Aikelmer to ask him who this girl was, for whom he already felt a strong inclination. Aikelmer informed him who Signora Ottavia was and the part she had in the Queen's confidence, adding that this girl was delighted to know the merit of so accomplished a prince. The glances they gave each other since then in their meetings finished putting them on perfect understanding — words are rarely put into practice in Italy — nevertheless an interview was arranged between this perfect couple.
But the prince, who had so ardently expressed his wish for it, suddenly slowed down, knowing that Ottavia would consent without much prompting, although she had taken precautions not to fail in a tête-à-tête. Some irrelevant reflection dissuaded the prince from attending the meeting, and Ottavia was inconceivably scorned. The middleman was confounded and gained nothing but the hatred of both.
Furthermore, the Queen, who did not yet know the young prince's cold temperament, testified to him by signs and in covert words on the occasion that it was up to him whether he should be happy. But it was in vain that one made advances to him and assured him that he could dispose of the person of the Queen, whose heart he already possessed, he never wanted to go beyond the terms of the most innocent gallantry; and the more obstacles were overcome, the more reserved he became.
Although far from being in danger, he showed much ardour to respond to the flame of the Queen, who was in despair of his excessive respect and his timid fear, she could never get anything from him. They offered to give him such security as he wanted, and that they would even have the Queen come incognito, to such a place as she pleased, and of which he would be the master. This thought alone filled him with horror.
Finally, the Queen was left with nothing but the shame of having explained herself too clearly to him. The rage of seeing herself rejected converted her love into an implacable hatred, and if she did not take solemn vengeance for the prince's contempt, it was an effect of her happiness. So dangerous it is to be loved or hated by great people.
If the Prince had refused only the Queen, it might be said that the fear of having a fate similar to that of the Marquis Monaldeschi would have restrained him. But he has scorned the fires of several other ladies who have accused him of impotence or of a timidity unworthy of his rank, for in society a man is not esteemed who restrains himself by a principle of religion. We have seen how courage he lacked in his intrigue with Ottavia, and we shall see that he showed no more courage in the case of a beautiful duchess who had all the qualities a lady needs to make herself loved.
It is said that Prince Colombieri had loved her shortly before Don Benigno became attached to her and that he had been very satisfied by her. Don Benigno found the position vacant when he undertook the conquest of Diana's heart, for that was what the Duchess was called. To achieve this, he made use of the porter of a large community who had victory as his weapons; but, having recognised that he was not skilled in this maneuver, he preferred to employ a French merchant living near Sant'Agostino because he served the Duchess and was capable of negotiating a love intrigue.
After having paid her a thousand caresses, he opened up to her about his design, promised her mountains and the world, according to the custom of lovers, and left the conduct of his good fortune in her hands. As soon as the confidant entered the Duchess's room, under the pretext of bringing her a new piece of French fabric, he pretended to read a note while her back was turned, but he allowed himself to be surprised.
The Duchess asked him what it was. The merchant, who was familiar with her, told her that it made the most agreeable reading in the world, and that it was a love note from the person he esteemed the most.
"I want to see it", Diana said.
"Here you go, Madama", replied the shrewd merchant, who was asking for nothing better. "You shall be my confidante!"
She took it indeed and read these words:
"Prince Don Benigno adores you, Madama, and has charged me to let you know it. I would wish, for the repose of his love, that you hear it yourself. I am sure that you would be softened to know the pain he suffers for you; and if you will give me the liberty to do so, I will explain the rest to you by mouth."
It must be admitted that the profession of confidant is the most agreeable one can think of, provided that one runs no risk in it, for a woman is always grateful to those who persuade her that she is lovable. This princess, whom curiosity had led to read this note, believing that it was something quite different, remained surprised at this new way of learning she was loved. She became vermillion like a rose and was for some time without speaking, with a confusion which marked the agitation of her soul.
The Duke, her husband, then entered the Duchess's room to see the fabric that the merchant had brought before having it cut, and seeing the Duchess quite moved, he asked her if she was not satisfied with such a beautiful fabric that seemed very rich to her. She testified to being pleased with it, but she said that she would have liked to be the only one who had it, for the Princess of Sonnino had a dress similar to the one she had had made before.
"The secret", said the merchant, "is to take the whole piece, for only that one has come to Rome, assuredly."
"Monsieur Claude is right," said the Duke; "and I would advise you to buy the whole piece if it were not so expensive. Besides, I believe he will be faithful to you."
"Yes, Signor", said the merchant; "Madama may count on me to keep her secret in this and in all other things. In the end, 30 pistoles more in the fashion, and she will be the only one who will have it for a long time."
"What an admirable man!" said this good husband. "Take it into account, Madama, but have the material measured carefully before he writes it on its parts."
There was nothing else remarkable in this first interview, and the merchant went at once to give an account of his negotiation to Don Benigno. The prince thought the declaration ingenious. He embraced the merchant and said that he had begun well, begging him to continue until he had made him happy.
Two days later, the merchant returned to the Duchess to bring her the lining of her dress. She was impatient to see him again; but with a reserve proper to ladies who wish to preserve some bienséance, she waited until he began.
Being left alone with her, he asked her what effect his note had produced. She lay down on a lit de repos, saying with affectation that she had taken no notice of it.
"And besides", she said, "I don't want to get involved with that young man who has too much pride, who presumes too much of himself, and just because he's a pretty boy, he thinks he's Narcissus."
The merchant assured her that the Prince would have an indissoluble attachment to her, and that, his passion being no greater, his respect and fidelity would be no less. On these assurances, the Duchess said to the merchant:
"I beg you, Monsieur Claude, not to flatter him with any hope that I have already not put him to the test, because, under the pretext of saving appearances and keeping all necessary measures, I will see if he will have perseverance."
She even made known to the merchant that she had some inclination towards him and that he would hold on to her until he was happy. She was right and knew his character perfectly, and, certainly if his vigour had answered his presumption, he had what it took to content ladies. Nevertheless, he was still such a novice that he believed that it was enough for him to have it said to a lady that he was in love with her to oblige her to take the same passion for him; but he found in Diana's person a woman who knew how to reprimand people and who taught him how to live.
One day Don Benigno, being at Frascati, was attacked by three ladies who pretended to be beautiful and who agreeably made war on him. One of them, who was the Marquise Nani, told him mockingly that, handsome and well-formed as he was, he had found cruel ladies, that they had news of his affairs, and that they were obliged to the beautiful person to whom he addressed his wishes to hold him in respect for his sex.
He was very piqued by these words, but he fell back on his indifference to the ladies. Nevertheless, his vanity being excited, he resolved to use everything to make himself loved by Diana. He went about it quite well at first, for after having given some marks of perseverance, he made a present to the Duchess of a silk fabric with a blue background striped with silver columns, surrounded by very beautiful foliage and flowers of gold and others of silver, of great price.
In order to hide from the Duke the place where this present came from, the Duchess made him believe that the merchant was satisfied with a third in ready money, and that, for the rest, he would take wheat and wine, a sum per month, until the end of the payment. The Duke was very pleased, for in Rome the great lords often have difficulty in parting with their entrance fees because they sell their estates themselves, there being no tenants who give ready money.
Then the Duchess became a little more familiar with Don Benigno. Carnaval having come, the Prince often masked himself and wore a hood lined with ermine, having on the hood a lace cuff and a ponceau ribbon, which was the signal to make himself known. Diana was on a balcony in the courtyard making sweet eyes at him. They saw each other at comedies and balls, where they danced together. This gave them an occasion to say little words to each other on the sly, Italian jealousy not allowing them to have regular conversations together.
He would have liked to obtain some favour from Diana, but one wanted to make the point. One promised him, however, that during Lent they would find opportunities to satisfy him. The first week having come, they gave him an appointment in a garden near Santa Sabina on the Aventine Hill, which is entered by two different doors. Don Benigno came there with his confidant in a small closed carriage, which was left 50 paces from a secret door. The Duchess, who had gone there by the main door, received him pleasantly while the confidant entertained the maid, and they gradually moved away.
Diana, who this time only wanted to amuse the Prince, ordered her maid not to lose sight of them, and they obeyed, although they kept out of earshot. The tête-à-tête lasted nearly half an hour, with equal satisfaction. Don Benigno was very pleased with this first interview, but, because in Italy people have little freedom to see each other, he asked for the liberty of writing to her and the pleasure of receiving replies.
Diana made much difficulty about it. She said that there was less danger in satisfying a lover by granting him the greatest favours than in writing to him and receiving his letters, because if it happened that the lover boasted of having had privileges with his mistress, she had the right to deny everything, but that, the letters and the characters being known, they were irreproachable witnesses.
Finally, by dint of prayers, he obtained some notes, on condition that he return them in the replies. All these difficulties having been overcome, the conclusion of about twenty letters was an appointment with Diana at a certain hour, which Don Benigno did not miss. He came there very late one evening accompanied by his confidant. They entered by the back door of the lady's palace, their noses wrapped in their coats.
They happily climbed the stairs without disgrace to the last lantern at the top, where they found a gentleman of Don Arimatea, Diana's brother, who looked at them a little, then, passing on his way, said to them laughingly: "God send you good fortune, my friends!"
Having arrived in a small gallery which opened into the room of Clarissa, Diana's attendant, they were not at the end of their troubles, for, having extinguished their dull lanterns, they did not know where they were going. The merchant, who knew the beings, walked first, groping, but he thought he would be strangled by the prince as he stretched his cloak.
Finally, after a labyrinth of detours, they entered a small room, where they first saw at the head of the bed a crucifix six feet high next to a prie-dieu, above a painting of Saint Francis, surrounded by a rosary an ell long. This bed was not raised from the ground more than two feet. Don Benigno had put on a black wig instead of a blond one that he always wore, and he was combing it while waiting for the nymph to arrive, assuring him that he was prepared for combat and that he had brought good weapons to attack and beat the place in the forms.
Then one saw the Duchess appear at the back of the gallery. She came in brighter than the moon, with a candle in her hand, in a white négligée, her head adjusted advantageously, a beautiful knot of ponceau ribbon on the extremity of her breast, which, being half uncovered, gave a great brilliance to the most beautiful chest in the world.
Don Benigno was completely dazzled by this, and after the first compliments, the merchant withdrew, leaving the lovers completely free to do as they pleased, but everything was still done with ceremony. Don Benigno could not say anything else to Diana except that he was dying of love for her, and although she left him the freedom to undertake everything, he did not dare to take advantage of it.
Having withdrawn without doing anything, he was ashamed of his lack of boldness and wanted to repair his fault, but a second audience which was granted to him only made his search public, because Prince Colombieri, having heard of it, posted six brave men who waited for Don Benigno under the portal of the Palazzo d'Este, where they presented a dark lantern to his face to recognise him, having withdrawn immediately, as if it had been the patrol, although one of them followed him from afar to Diana's palazzo.
Don Benigno did nothing about it yet, and Prince Colombieri did not fail at the first opportunity to congratulate him in veiled words on his good fortune and on the number of his mistresses which prevented him from being able to satisfy them all. This, together with the information given to him that Prince Colombieri was seeing Diana again, renewed his passion, jealousy having more effect on him than love. He complained about Diana, who preferred a man of age to a young boy full of vigour and ready to satisfy the ladies at any moment, whereas it took Prince Colombieri eight days to prepare himself for it.
These complaints were repeated to the Duchess, word for word, by the merchant, to whom she replied that Don Benigno was worse than Prince Colombieri.
"Because", she said, "if it takes this bloke eight days to prepare himself... I've given more than three months to that coward, and he has always failed me when the occasion comes!"
"Madama", replied the merchant, "it might come from too much ardour, like what happened in France to the Count of Guiche."
"That doesn't matter", replied Diana. "It may happen once, but a man full of vigour is never more so than on these occasions."
The merchant did not know what to answer to defend so bad a cause.
"Imagine, my poor Claude", she continued, "that your friend is the complete opposite of the scorpions that sting with their tails because he only stings with his tongue. So we must be wary of these tall, skinny beanpoles who look good but are good for nothing."
The merchant then said to her, to divert attention: "Madama, a man of average height, broad shoulders, veiny and muscular limbs, black hair, brown face, full of vigour, 35 years old, eyes bright and full of fire... Although this man is not otherwise handsome, would he be good for anything?"
"Very well", she said; "that's how we like 'em. It's for women to be beautiful and for men to run the lance well, but you do look very much like that man."
She was lying carelessly on her lit de repos, her breast uncovered, and in a very tentative posture, when someone came to tap at her door to warn her that Cardinal Colonna was at the bottom of the stairs, who had come to visit her. She got up immediately, took her headdress and went to meet His Eminence while the merchant passed into a cabinet and thence into the wardrobe, from which he left by a secret staircase.
He went to find Don Benigno to tell him that if he did not treat Diana better, that would oblige him to renew relations with Prince Colombieri, but he took the matter the wrong way, or he used this pretext to break up with Diana. He said that he did not want the remains of Prince Colombieri, who was the common bull of Rome and who had certain infirmities which one was not very happy to contract.
However, Prince Colombieri was then in perfect health, and the Duchess healthy and fresh as a fish. In the end, Don Benigno did not see the duchess again, and, to spite her, he withheld one of her letters, which he did not have returned to her until he became a priest.
All the vengeance she could take was to mock him with the Queen, by whom she was highly regarded. When they spoke of him together, it was only with the utmost contempt. They treated him as the most miserable of men and always loaded him with some new insult.
The Queen, who was very free in her speech and who pronounced words in French that she would have been ashamed to say in her own language, because there are terms that do not make as much impression in a foreign language as in her own, said one day to Diana that she did not believe there was an epithet that suited him better than that of scoundrel.
The Duchess applauded her, and they both said in unison: "To the Devil with the scoundrel!"
Don Benigno did not dare to go to the Queen again, although he was accustomed to go there often, especially when she held her Academy, where the finest minds in Rome were to be found. He took as a pretext that he did not wish to treat as Excellency the Marquis del Monte, whom the Queen had just raised to the office of grand equerry; and, to spite Her Majesty, he forced his sister, the Princess Altamira, to drive away a pageboy she had who was the brother of Signora Ottavia and whom she had taken to the Queen's consideration.
