The spectators were on
the very tiptoe of expectation, and full of solicitude for the issue;
and I more than all, who had now determined to regard Theagenes as my
own son.
the very tiptoe of expectation, and full of solicitude for the issue;
and I more than all, who had now determined to regard Theagenes as my
own son.
Scriptori Erotici Graeci
"--"If you found this out afterwards, Father," said Cnemon,
"you will inform me at a proper season; in the mean time tell me in
what manner they signified, as you said, that this was not a common
dream, but a real appearance. "--"In the same manner, my son, as the
wise Homer intimates; though many do not perceive the hidden sense that
is contained in these lines:
Ἴνια γὰρ μετόπισθε ποδῶν ἠδέ κνημάων
Ῥεῖ', ἓγνων ἀπιοντός, ἀρίγνωτοί τε θεοί περ. [17]
"As they departed, I their legs and feet
To glide did see; the gods are known with ease. "
"I must confess," said Cnemon, "that I am one of the many, and perhaps
you imagined so when you quoted these verses. I have understood the
common sense of the words, ever since I first read them, but cannot
penetrate any hidden theological meaning that may be couched under
them. "--Calasiris considering a little, and applying his mind to the
explanation of this mystery, replied:
"The gods, O Cnemon, when they appear to, or disappear from us,
generally do it under a human shape--seldom under that of any other
animal; perhaps, in order that their appearance may have more the
semblance of reality. They may not be manifest to the profane,
but cannot be concealed from the sage. You may know them by their
eyes; they look on you with a fixed gaze, never winking with their
eye-lids--still more by their motion,[18] which is a kind of gliding,
an aerial impulse, without movement of the feet, cleaving rather than
traversing the air: for which reason the images of the Egyptian gods
have their feet joined together, and in a manner united. Wherefore
Homer, being an Egyptian, and instructed in their sacred doctrines,
covertly insinuated this matter in his verses, leaving it to be
understood by the intelligent. He mentions Pallas in this manner:
. . . . δεινὼ δὲ οἱ ὃσσε φάανθεν.
'Fierce glared her eyes. '
and Neptune in the lines quoted before--'ῥεῖν ἔγνων,'--as if gliding in
his gait; for so is the verse to be construed--'ῥεῑν απιόντος,' gliding
away; not, as some erroneously think, 'ῥεῑ' εγνων,' I easily knew him. "
"You have initiated me into this mystery," replied Cnemon; "but how
come you to call Homer an Egyptian? It is the first time I ever heard
him called so. I will not insist that he is not your countryman; but
I should be exceedingly glad to hear your reasons for claiming him
as such. "--"This is not exactly the time," said Calasiris, "for such
a discussion; however, as you desire it, I will shortly mention the
grounds upon which I go.
"Different authors have ascribed to Homer different countries--indeed
the country of a wise man[19] is in every land; but he was, in fact,
an Egyptian, of the city of Thebes, as you may learn from himself.
His supposed father was a priest there; his real one, Mercury. For
the wife of the priest whose son he was taken to be, while she was
celebrating some sacred mysteries, slept in the temple. Mercury
enjoyed her company; and impregnated her with Homer; and he bore to
his dying day a mark of his spurious origin. From Thebes he wandered
into various countries, and particularly into Greece; singing his
verses, and obtaining the name he bore. He never told his real one,
nor his country, nor family; but those who knew of this mark upon his
body, took occasion from it to give him the name of Homer;[20] for,
immediately from his birth, a profusion of hair appeared upon both his
thighs. "
"On what account, my father, did he conceal the place of his
birth? "--"Possibly he was unwilling to appear a fugitive; for he was
driven out by his father, and not admitted among the sacred youths,
on account of the peculiar mark he bore on his body, indicating his
spurious origin. Or, perhaps, he had a wise design in keeping the real
spot of his nativity a secret, as by so doing he might claim every land
he passed through as his fatherland. "--"I cannot help," said Cnemon,
"being half persuaded of the truth of this account you give of Homer.
His poems breathe all the softness and luxuriance of Egypt; and from
their excellency, bespeak something of a divine original in their
author.
"But after that, by Homer's assistance, you had discovered the true
nature of these deities, what happened? "--"Much the same as before:
watchings, thoughts, and cares, which night and darkness nourish. I was
glad that I had discovered something, which I had in vain attempted to
explain before; and rejoiced at the near prospect of my return to my
country. But I was grieved to think that Charicles was to be deprived
of his daughter. I was in great doubt in what manner the young people
were to be taken away together; how to prepare for their flight; how to
do it privately, whither to direct it; and whether by land or by sea.
In short, I was overwhelmed with a sea of troubles[21] and spent the
remainder of the night restless, and without sleep. But the day scarce
began to dawn, when I heard a knocking at the gate of my court, and
somebody calling my servant.
"The boy asked who it was that knocked, and what he wanted. The person
replied, that he was Theagenes the Thessalian. --I was very glad to hear
this, and ordered him to be introduced; thinking this an excellent
opportunity to lay some foundation for the design I meditated. I
supposed that, having discovered at the entertainment that I was an
Egyptian, and a priest, he came to ask my advice and assistance in
the attachment which now influenced him. He thought, perhaps, as many
wrongly do, that the science of the Egyptians was only of one sort.
But there is one branch in the hands of the common mass, as I may
say, crawling on the ground; busied in the service of idols, and the
care of dead bodies; poring over herbs, and murmuring incantations;
neither itself aiming, nor leading those who apply to it to aim, at any
good end; and most frequently failing in what it professes to effect.
Sometimes succeeding in matters of a gloomy and despicable nature;
showing imaginary visions as though real; encouraging wickedness; and
ministering to lawless pleasures. But the other branch of Egyptian
science, my son, is the true wisdom; of which that which I have just
mentioned is the base-born offspring. This is that in which our
priests and seers are from their youth initiated. This is of a far
more excellent nature; looks to heavenly things, and converses with
the gods; inquires into the motions of the stars, and gains an insight
into futurity; far removed from evil and earthly matters, and turning
all its views to what is honourable and beneficial to mankind. It was
this which prompted me to retire a while from my country--to avoid,
if possible, the ills which it enabled me to foresee, and the discord
which was to arise between my children. But these events must be left
to the gods, and the fates, who have power either to accomplish or to
hinder them; and who, perhaps, ordained my flight, in order that I
might meet with Chariclea. I will now proceed with my narration.
"Theagenes entered my apartment; and, after I had received and returned
his salute, I placed him near me on the bed, and asked what was the
occasion of so early a visit. --He stroked his face, and, after a
long pause, said: 'I am in the greatest perplexity, and yet blush to
disclose the cause of it:'--and here he stopped. I saw that this was
the time for dissimulation, and for pretending to discover what I
already knew. Looking therefore archly upon him, I said, 'Though you
seem unwilling to speak out, yet nothing escapes my knowledge, with
the assistance of the gods. '--With this I raised myself a little,
counting over certain numbers upon my fingers, (which in reality meant
nothing); shaking my locks, like one moreover under a sudden influence
of the divinity, I cried out, 'My son, you are in love. '--He started at
this; but, when I added--'and with Chariclea,' he thought I was really
divinely inspired; and was ready to fall at my feet, and worship me.
When I prevented this, he[22] kissed my head, and gave thanks to the
gods that he had really found my knowledge as great as he expected.
He besought me to be his preserver; for, unless preserved by my
assistance, and that quickly, he was undone, so violent a passion had
seized upon him; desire so consumed him--him, who now first knew what
it was to love.
"He swore to me, with many protestations, that he never had enjoyed
the company of women--that he had always rejected them--and professed
himself an enemy to marriage, and a rebel to Venus, until subdued
by the charms of Chariclea--that this did not arise from any forced
temperance, or natural coldness of constitution; but he had never
before seen a woman whom he thought worthy of his love--and having
said this, he wept, as if indignant at being subdued by a weak girl. I
raised him, comforted, and bade him be of good cheer; for, since he had
applied to me, he should find that her coyness would yield to my art. I
knew that she was haughty, protesting against love, so as not to bear
even the name of Venus or wedlock; but I would leave no stone unturned
to serve him. 'Art,' said I, 'can not outdo even nature: only be not
cast down, but act as I shall direct you. '
"He promised that he would obey me in every thing; even if I should
order him to go through fire and sword. While he was thus eager in
protestations, and profuse in his promises of laying at my feet all
he was worth, a messenger came from Charicles, saying that his master
desired me to come to him--that he was near, in the temple of Apollo,
where he was chanting a hymn to appease the deity; having been much
disturbed in the night by a dream.
"I arose immediately, and dismissing Theagenes, hastened to the temple;
where I found Charicles reclining sorrowfully upon a seat, and sighing
deeply. I approached him, and inquired why he was so melancholy and
cast down. --'How can I be otherwise,' he replied, 'when I have been
terrified by dreams? and hear too, this morning, that my daughter
still continues indisposed, and has passed a sleepless night. I am the
more concerned at this, not only on her own account, but also because
to-morrow is the day appointed for the display of those who[23] run in
armour; at which ceremony the priestess of Diana is to preside, and
hold up a torch. Either, therefore, the festival will lose much of its
accustomed splendour by her absence; or if she comes against her will,
she may increase her illness. Wherefore let me now beseech you, by
our friendship, and by the god at whose altar we are, to come to her
assistance, and think of some remedy. I know you can easily, if you
please, cure this fascination, if such it be--the priests of Egypt can
do far greater things than these. '
"I confessed that I had been negligent (the better to carry on the
deception); and requested a day's time to prepare some medicines,
which I thought necessary for her cure. 'Let us now, however,' I
continued, 'make her a visit; consider more accurately the nature of
her complaint; and, if possible, administer to her some consolation.
At the same time, Charicles, I beg you will say a few words to her
concerning me; inspire her with regard for my person, and confidence in
my skill, that so the cure may proceed the better. ' He promised that he
would do so; and we went together. But why say much of the situation
in which we found the luckless Chariclea? She was entirely prostrated
by her passion; the bloom was flown from her cheeks; and tears flowing
like water had extinguished the lustre of her eyes. She endeavoured,
however to compose herself, when she saw us; and to resume her usual
voice and countenance. Charicles embraced, kissed and soothed her. 'My
dear daughter,' he cried, 'why will you hide your sufferings from your
father? and while you labour under a fascination, you are silent as if
you were the injurer, instead of being the injured party: an evil eye
has certainly looked upon you. But be of good cheer; here is the wise
Calasiris, who has promised to attempt your cure; and he, if any one
is able, can effect it; for he has been bred up from his youth in the
study of things divine, and is himself a priest; and what is more than
all, he is my dearest friend. Resign yourself up, therefore, entirely
to his management; suffer him to treat you as he pleases, either by
incantations or any other method--you have, I know, no aversion to the
company and conversation of the wise. '
"Chariclea motioned her consent, as though not displeased at the
proposal--and we then took our leave; Charicles putting me in mind of
what he had first recommended to my anxious care; beseeching me, if
possible, to inspire his daughter with an inclination for love and
marriage. I sent him away in good spirits: assuring him that I would
shortly bring about what he seemed to have so much at heart. "
[Footnote 1: Σιμοὶ. ]
[Footnote 2:
Tὰν θέτιν ἀείδω, χρυσοἐθεφα θέτι,
Νηρέως ἀθανάταν εἰvaλίoιo Κόραν,
Τὰν Διός ἐννεσίη Πήλεϊ γημαμέναν;
Τὰν ἁλός ἀγλαίαν, ἀμετὲραν Παφίην·
Ή τὸν δουριμανή τόν τ'"Αρεα πτολέμων,
Έλλάδος ἀστερoπαν ἐζέτεκεν λαγόνων
Δῖον Άχιλλῆα, τοῦ κλέος οὐράνιον
Τῷ ὑπὸ Πύῤῥα τέκεν πᾶιδα Νεοπτόλεμον
Περσέπολιν Τρώων, ῥυσίπολιν Δαναῶν·
Ιλήκοις ἤρως ἄμμι Nεοπτόλεμε,
Ὅλζίε Πνθιάδι νῦν χθονὶ κευθόμενε.
Αέχνυσο δ'εὐμενέων τῶνδε θυηπολίην'
Πᾶν δ' ἀπέρυκε δέος άμετέρας πόλιός.
Tὰν θέτιν ἀείδω, χρυσοέθειρα θέτι.
]
[Footnote 3:
"To brisk notes in cadence beating,
Glance their many-twinkling feet. "--Gray.
]
[Footnote 4:
"Armed he rode, all save the head;
. . . . . .
He ruled his eager courser's gait;
Forced him with chastened fire to prance,
And, high curvetting, slow advance. "
Lay of the Last Minstrel, iv. 18.
]
[Footnote 5: The ancients were very exact in performing their devotions
to the gods of the night, before they went to bed, or when they broke
up an entertainment. Mercury was one of the principal of these deities.
Homer takes notice of this custom:
"The chiefs he found and senators within
Libation pouring to the vigilant spy
Mercurius, whom with wine they worshipp'd last
Of all the gods, and at the hour of rest. "
Od. vii. 136. --Cowper.
]
[Footnote 6: Όλόλυξαν μὲν aἱ γυνᾶικες, ἠλάλαξαν δὲ οἱ ἄνδρες. ]
[Footnote 7:
"It is the secret sympathy,
The silver link, the silken tie,
Which heart to heart and mind to mind
In body and in soul can bind. "
Lay of the Last Minstrel, v. 14.
]
[Footnote 8: This incident forms the subject of a painting by Raphael. ]
[Footnote 9:
". . . micat inter omnea
. . . velut inter ignes----
Luna minorea. "--Hor. I. Od. xii. 47.
]
[Footnote 10: Τοὺς ὀφθαλμους Ἓρωτι διαβρόχους.
"Et dulcis pueri _ebrios_ ocellos
Illo purpureo ore suaviata. "--Catullus, c. 42.
]
[Footnote 11: "Nescio quis teneros oculus mihi fascinat agnos. "--Virg.
Ec. iii. Theocritus (Id. v. 39,) alludes to the method of averting
fascination:
"Ώς μὴ βασκανθῶ δὲ, τρὶς εἰς ἐμὸν ἓπτυσα κόλπον. "
]
[Footnote 12: A passage illustrative of this occurs in Achilles Tatius,
B. i. 4: Κάλλος ὀξύτερον τιτρώσκει βέλους, καὶ δια τῶν ὀφθαλμῶν εἰς τὴν
ψυχην καταῤῥεῖ ὀφθαλμὸς yὰρ ἐδoς ἐρωτικῷ τράυμάτι. ]
[Footnote 13: Supposed to be the lapwing or curlew. ]
[Footnote 14: Tὴν ἀπὸ ξύλου κλῆσιν ἥκει φέρων. ]
[Footnote 15: Φιλίαν ἥδε ἡμῖν ἡ τράπεζα σπενδέθω. ]
[Footnote 16: Mη ὄναρ αλλ' ὔαρ. ]
[Footnote 17: Iliad, xiii. 71. Heliodorus, says the Bipont editor,
evidently intended the line in Homer to be read--Ῥεῖν ἕγνων
ἀπιοντός--instead of Ῥεῖ. . . . ]
[Footnote 18: "Vera incessu patuit Dea. "--Virg. Æn. i. 405. ]
[Footnote 19: "Ogni stanza al valent' uomo è patria. "--Guarini, Pastor
Fido. ]
[Footnote 20: Ομηρος--μηρός in Greek signifies a thigh. For the various
accounts respecting Homer, and the origin of his name, see p. 59 of
Coleridge's Introd. to the Classic Poets. ]
[Footnote 21: Κλύδων φροντισμάτωρ. "Or to take arms against _a sea of
troubles_. "--Shakspeare. ]
[Footnote 22: "Φιλήσω τ', εί θἐμις, τὸ σὸν κάρα. "--Soph. Œd. Col. 1131. ]
[Footnote 23: Of one of whom Pindar says--
'Εθέλω χαλκόσπιδα Πυθιoνίκαν
. . . . γεγωνεῖν. --Pyth. xi. 1.
]
BOOK IV.
"The ensuing day ended the Pythian games; but not the conflict of
the youthful pair; Love was the arbiter, and in the persons of these
his combatants, determined to exhibit his mightiest contest. Towards
the end of the ceremony, when all Greece was looking on, and the
Amphictyons sat as judges; when the races, the wrestlings, and the
boxing matches were over; a herald came forward, and made proclamation
for the men in armour to appear. At that instant the priestess
Chariclea shone out like some fair star at the end of the course; for
she had prevailed with herself, however unfit, to come forth, that she
might comply with the custom of her country: and perhaps not without
a secret hope of seeing Theagenes. She bore a torch in her left hand,
and a branch of palm in her right. At her appearance every eye in the
assembly was turned upon her, but none sooner than that of Theagenes;
for what is so quick as the glance of a lover? He, who perhaps had
heard that it was probable she might come, had his whole mind intent
upon that expectation; and, when she appeared, was not able to contain
himself; but said softly to me, who sat next to him, ''Tis she herself;
'tis Chariclea! ' I bid him be silent, and compose himself. And now,
at the summons of the herald, a warrior stood forth; splendidly armed,
of noble air, and distinguished appearance; who had formerly been
victor in many contests, but at this meeting had not engaged in any,
probably because he could not find a competitor; and none now appearing
to oppose him, the Amphyctyons ordered him to retire, the law not
permitting any one to be crowned who had not contended. He begged the
herald might be suffered again to make proclamation, which he did,
calling upon some one to enter the lists.
"Theagenes said to me, 'This man calls upon me. '--'How so? ' said
I,--'He does indeed,' he replied; 'for no other, while I am present and
behold it, shall receive a crown from the hands of Chariclea. '--'But do
you not consider the disgrace, if you should fail of success? '--'Will
any one outrun me in speed and in desire to see and be near
Chariclea? [1] To whom will the sight of her add swifter wings and
more impetuous speed? You know that the painters make Love winged,
signifying thereby how rapid are the motions of his captives; and, were
I inclined to boast, I could say that no one hitherto has been able to
excel me in swiftness. '--And immediately he sprang up, came forward,
gave in his name and family, and took his allotted place.
"He stood there in complete armour, expecting with trembling eagerness
the signal of the trumpet, and scarce able to wait for it. It was a
noble and all-engrossing spectacle, as when Homer[2] describes Achilles
contending on the banks of Scamander. The whole assembly was moved
at his unexpected appearance, and felt as much interested in his
success as they would have done for their own; such power has beauty
to conciliate the minds of men. But Chariclea was affected more than
all: I watched her countenance, and saw the changes of it. And when
the herald proclaimed the names of the racers--Ormenus the Arcadian,
and Theagenes the Thessalian--when they sprang forward from the goal,
and ran together with a swiftness almost too rapid for the eye to
follow--then the maiden was unable to contain herself; her limbs
trembled, and her feet quivered, as if they could assist the course of
her lover, on whom her whole soul was intent.
The spectators were on
the very tiptoe of expectation, and full of solicitude for the issue;
and I more than all, who had now determined to regard Theagenes as my
own son. "
"No wonder," said Cnemon, "that those present were in an agony of
expectation; when I, even now, am trembling for Theagenes. Deliver me,
therefore, I beseech you, as soon as you can, out of my suspense. "
"When they had not finished more than half their course," continued
Calasiris, "Theagenes turning a little, and casting a stern glance at
Ormenus, lifted up his shield on high, and stretching out his neck, and
fixing his eyes intently on Chariclea, flew like an arrow to the goal,
leaving the Arcadian far behind him. When he reached the maiden, he
fell upon her bosom; not, I imagine, without design, but in appearance
as if unable to check on a sudden the rapidity of his pace. When he
took the palm from her hand, I observed he kissed it. "
"You have relieved my mind," said Cnemon; "I rejoice that he has both
obtained the victory, and kissed his mistress. But what happened
afterwards? "--"You are not only insatiable of hearing, Cnemon, but
invincible by sleep; a great part of the night is now spent, and you
are still wakeful, still attentive to my tedious story. "--"I am at feud
with Homer,[3] father, for saying that love, as well as everything
else, brings satiety in the end; for my part I am never tired either
of feeling it myself, or hearing of its influence on others; and
lives there the man of so iron and adamantine an heart, as not to be
enchanted with listening to the loves of Theagenes and Chariclea,
though the story were to last a year? Go on, therefore, I beseech you. "
"Theagenes," continued Calasiris, "was crowned, proclaimed victor,
and conducted home with universal applause. But Chariclea was utterly
vanquished; the second sight of Theagenes fixed deep that love which
the first had inspired; for the mutual looks of lovers revive and
redouble their passion; sight inflames the imagination, as fuel
increases fire. She went home, and spent a night as bad or worse than
the former one. I, too, was sleepless as before, ruminating how I
should conceal our flight, and into what country it was the intention
of the gods that I should conduct my young companions. I conjectured,
from the words of the oracle, that it was to be by sea:
----'and oceans past,
In regions torrid shall arrive at last;'
but I could think only of one method to obtain some information whither
I ought to take them; and that was, if I could gain a sight of the
fillet which was exposed with Chariclea; on which, as Charicles said,
some particulars relating to her were written. It was probable that I
might learn from thence the names of her parents, and of her country,
which I already guessed at; and it was thither, most likely, that the
fates would direct her course. I went, therefore, in the morning, to
the apartment of Chariclea; I found all her servants in tears, and
Charicles in the deepest distress. I inquired into the cause of this
agitation.
"'My daughter's malady,' he replied, 'increases visibly; she has
passed a wretched night, worse than the preceding one. '--Upon this
I desired that he, and all who were present, would leave the room;
and that some one would procure for me a tripod, laurel, fire, and
frankincense; and that no one would disturb me till I should call for
them. Charicles ordered everything to be disposed as I desired. When I
was left at liberty, I began a kind of scenical representation; I burnt
my incense, I muttered a few prayers, and with the branch of laurel
stroked Chariclea several times from head to foot. At last, after
having played a hundred fooleries with myself and the maiden, I began
yawning, grew tired of the mummery, and ceased. She smiled, shook her
head, and signified that I was in an error, and had entirely mistaken
the nature of her disorder. I approached nearer to her, and bid her be
of good cheer, for her malady was by no means, uncommon or difficult
of cure--that she was undoubtedly fascinated, perhaps when she was
present at the procession, but most probably when she presided at the
race--that I suspected who had fascinated her--that my suspicions fell
upon Theagenes, who ran the armour race; for I had observed with what
an intent and ardent eye he gazed upon her.
"'Whether he looked at me or not,' she replied, 'say no more of him;
yet tell me who is he, and whence does he come? I saw many admiring
him. '--I told her that she had already heard from the herald that
he was a Thessalian--that he himself claimed to be of the family of
Achilles; and, I thought, not without great appearance of truth: for
his beauty and stature bespoke him a descendant from that hero. Yet he
was not, like[4] him, insolent or arrogant, but possessed an elevated
mind, tempered with sweetness; 'and though he has an evil eye, and has
fascinated you, he suffers worse torments than he has inflicted. '
"'Father,' said she, 'I am obliged to you for the compassion you
express for me; but do not wish ill to one who perhaps has not
committed any wrong. My malady is not fascination, but, I think, of
another kind. '--'Why do you conceal it then, my daughter, and not
tell it freely, that you may meet with some relief? Consider me as a
father to you, in age at least, and more in good-will. Am not I well
known to, and the intimate friend of, Charicles? Tell me the cause of
your disorder: put confidence in me; I swear I will not betray it.
Speak freely, and do not increase your sufferings by concealing them:
there is no disease, which when easily known, is not easily cured; but
that which is become inveterate by time is almost incurable--silence
nourishes anguish; what is disclosed admits of consolation and
relief. '--After a pause, in which her countenance betrayed the various
agitations of her mind, she said, 'Suffer me to continue silent to-day,
I will be more explicit hereafter; if the art of divination, in which
you are skilled, has not already discovered to you all I have to tell
you. '
"Upon this I arose and took my leave, hinting to the maiden the
necessity of overcoming her modesty and reserve. Charicles met me.
'What have you to tell me? ' said he. 'All good news,' I replied.
'To-morrow your daughter shall be cured of her complaint, and
something else shall happen which you greatly desire; in the meantime,
however, it may not be amiss to send for a physician:' and having said
this, I retired, that he might ask me no more questions.
"I had not gone far, when I saw Theagenes wandering about the precincts
of the temple, talking to himself, and seeming satisfied if he could
only see the place where Chariclea dwelt. Turning aside, I passed by
as if I had not observed him; but he cried out, 'Calasiris, I rejoice
to see you! listen to me; I have been long waiting for you. ' I turned
suddenly. 'My handsome Theagenes,' said I, 'I did not observe you. '
'How can he be handsome,' he replied, 'who cannot please Chariclea? '
I pretended to be angry. 'Will you not cease,' I said, 'to dishonour
me and my art, which has already worked upon her, and compelled her to
love you? and she now desires, above all things, to see you. ' 'To see
me! ' he exclaimed; 'what is it you tell me? why do not you instantly
lead me to her:' and immediately he began advancing. I caught hold of
his robe: 'Hold,' I cried, 'however famous you are for speed, this is
not a business to be ventured upon in haste; it requires consideration
and management, and many preparations, in order to ensure success and
safety. You must not think to bear off by force so rich a prize. Do
not you know that her father is one of the principal men of Delphi;
and that such an attempt would here incur a capital punishment? ' 'I
regard not death,' he replied, 'if I can possess Chariclea; however,
if you think it better, let us ask her in marriage of her father. I am
not unworthy of his alliance. ' 'We should not obtain her,' I answered;
'not that there can be any objection to you, but Charicles has long ago
promised her to his sister's son. ' 'He shall have no reason to rejoice
in his good fortune,' said Theagenes. 'No one, while I am alive,
shall make Chariclea his bride; my hand and sword have not yet so far
forgot their office. ' 'Moderate your passion,' I replied; 'there is no
occasion for your sword; only be guided by me, and do as I shall direct
you. At present retire, and avoid being seen often in public with me;
but visit me sometimes, quietly and in private. ' He went away quite
cast down.
"On the morrow Charicles met me: as soon as he saw me he ran up to
me, and repeatedly kissed my head, crying out, 'How great is the force
of wisdom and friendship! You have accomplished the great work. The
impregnable is taken. The invincible is vanquished. Chariclea is in
love! '
"At this I began to arch my eyebrows: I put on a consequential air, and
proudly paced the room. 'No marvel,' said I, 'that she has not been
able to resist even the first application of my spells, and yet I have
hitherto employed only some of the weakest of them. But how came you
acquainted with what you are rejoicing at? ' 'According to your advice,'
said he, 'I sent for some physicians of whom I had a high opinion.
I took them to visit my daughter, promising them large fees if they
could afford her any relief. As soon as they entered her apartment they
inquired into the cause of her complaint. She turned from them, made no
reply to their inquiries, and kept repeating a verse from Homer,[5] the
sense of which is,--
"Achilles, Peleus' son, thou flower of Greeks. "
At length the sagacious Acestinus (perhaps you know him) seized her
unwilling hand, hoping to discover by her pulse the movements of her
heart. He felt it, and, after some consideration, said, "Ο Charicles,
it is in vain you call upon us for assistance; the leech's art can here
be of no use. " "My God," cried I, "what is it you say? My daughter is
dying, and you give me no hope. " "Compose yourself," he replied, "and
attend to me;" and taking me aside he thus addressed me:---
"'"Our art professes to heal only the disorders of the body, not those
of the mind, except only when the mind suffers with the afflicted
body; when one is cured the other is relieved. Your daughter certainly
labours under a malady, but it is not a corporeal one. She has no
redundant humours, no head-ache, no fever, no distemper which has its
origin in the body--this I can venture to pronounce. " I besought him,
if he knew what really ailed her, that he would tell me. At last he
said, "Does she not know herself that the malady is a mental one--that
it is, in one word, love? Do you not see how her swelled eyes, her
unsettled look, her pale countenance, betray the wounded heart? Her
thoughts wander, her discourse is unconnected, she gets no sleep, and
visibly falls away; some relief must be sought for, but he alone for
whom she pines can, I think, afford it. " Having so said, he took his
leave. I hastened to you, as to a god and preserver, who alone have
it in your power, as both I and my daughter acknowledge, to do us
good. For when I was pressing her, in the most affectionate manner, to
discover to me the cause of her complaint, she answered that she knew
not what was the matter with her; this only she knew, that Calasiris
alone could heal her, and besought me to call you to her; from which I
perceive that she has the greatest opinion of, and confidence in, your
wisdom. '
"'Since you have found out that she is in love,' I replied, 'can you
conjecture with whom? ' 'No, by Apollo,' said he; 'how should I discover
that? I wish with all my heart it may be with Alcamenes, my sister's
son. I have long destined him for her spouse, if my wishes can have
weight with her. ' I told him it was easy to make the experiment, by
bringing the young man into her presence. He seemed to approve of this
and went away.
"Soon after I met him in the market-place. 'I have very disagreeable
news,' said he, 'my daughter is certainly possessed, she behaves in
so strange a manner. I introduced Alcamenes to her, as you desired;
and he had taken care about his personal appearance, but she, as if
she had seen the Gorgon's head, or anything more frightful, gave a
piercing shriek, turned her face aside, and, grasping her neck with
both her hands, protested that she would strangle herself, if we did
not instantly leave the room. This, you may imagine, we hastened to do
upon seeing such monstrously strange conduct. And we again entreat you
to save her life, and to fulfil, if possible, our wishes. '
"'O Charicles,' I replied, 'you were not mistaken in saying your
daughter was possessed. She is, indeed, beset by those powers which
I was obliged to employ against her. They are very potent, and are
compelling her to that from which her nature and constitution is
averse. But it seems to me that some opposing deity counteracts my
measures, and is fighting against my ministers; wherefore it is
necessary that I should see the fillet which you told me was exposed
with your daughter, and which you had preserved with the other tokens:
I fear it may contain some witcheries and magic which work upon her
mind, the contrivance of an enemy, who wishes her to continue all her
life single, childless, and averse to love. ' Charicles assented to what
Ϊ said, and presently brought me the fillet. I begged and obtained
time to consider it. I took it eagerly with me to my apartment, and
began immediately to read what was written on it. The characters
were Ethiopian;[6] not the common ones, but such as those of royal
birth make use of, which are the same as the sacred writings of the
Egyptians; and this was the tenor of the inscription:--
"'Persina, Queen of Ethiopia, inscribes this, her lament, as a last
gift to an unfortunate daughter, who has not yet obtained a name, and
is known to her only by the pangs she cost. '
"I shuddered, Cnemon, when I read the name of Persina; however, I read
on as follows:---
"'I call the Sun to witness, the author of my race, that I do not
expose you, my child, and withdraw you from the sight of your father
Hydaspes, on account of any crime of mine. Yet I would willingly
excuse myself to you, if you should happen to survive, and to him who
shall take you up, if propitious providence vouchsafes to send you a
preserver, and relate to the world the cause of my exposing you.
"'Of the gods we count the Sun and Bacchus among our ancestors; of
the heroes, Perseus, Andromeda, and Memnon. Our kings, at various
times, have adorned the royal apartments with pictures of them and
their exploits; some ornamented the porticoes and men's apartments:
our bed-chamber was painted with the story of Perseus and Andromeda.
There, in the tenth year after our marriage, when as yet we had no
child, I retired to repose myself during the scorching heat of noon;
and here your father, Hydaspes, visited me, being warned to do so by
a dream. In consequence of this visit I became pregnant. The whole
time of my pregnancy was a continual feast, a course of sacrifices and
thanksgivings to the gods, for the near prospect, long wished for, of
a successor to the kingdom. [7] But when at last I brought you forth,
a white infant, so different from the Ethiopian hue, I was at no loss
to explain the cause, since, in the embraces of your father,[8] I
had kept my eyes fixed on the picture of Andromeda, whom the painter
had represented just unchained from the rock, and my imagination had
communicated her complexion to my unhappy offspring. But this, though
satisfactory to me, might not have been so to any one else. I dreaded
the being accused of adultery, and the punishment which awaits that
crime: I committed you, therefore, to the wide world and to fortune.
I thought this better even for you than death, or the disgrace of
being called a bastard, one of which fates must have awaited you had
I preserved you at home. I told my husband that my child was dead,
and exposed you privately, placing as many valuables with you as I
could collect, by way of reward for whoever should find and bring you
up. Among other ornaments I put this fillet upon you, stained with my
own blood and containing this melancholy account, which I have traced
out in the midst of tears and sorrows, when I first brought you into
the world, and was overwhelmed with grief and consternation. And, oh
my sweet, yet soon lost daughter, if you should survive, remember
the noble race from which you spring; honour and cultivate virtue
and modesty, the chief recommendations of a woman, and ornaments of
a queen. But, among the jewels which are exposed with you, remember
to inquire after, and claim for yourself a ring which your father
gave me when he sought me in marriage. The circle of it is inscribed
with royal characters, and in its bezil[9] the stone Pantarbè, which
possesses occult and powerful virtue. I have given you this account
in writing, since cruel fortune denies me the happiness of doing it
in person; my pains may have been taken to no purpose, but they may
be of use to you; the designs of fate are inscrutable by mortals.
These words (oh vainly beautiful, and bringing, by your beauty, an
imputation on her who bore you), if you should be preserved, may serve
as a token to discover your race; if otherwise (which may I never
hear! ) they will be the funeral lament of an afflicted mother. '
"When I read this, Cnemon, I acknowledged and wondered at the
dispensations of the deities. I felt both pleasure and pain by a new
kind of sensation; I rejoiced and wept at the same time. I was glad
to have discovered what I was before ignorant of, together with the
meaning of the oracle: but I was apprehensive for the event of the
design I was engaged in; and lamented the instability and uncertainty,
the changes and the chances of human life, of which the fortunes of
Chariclea afforded so remarkable an instance. I recollected that, with
her high birth, heiress of the royal family of Ethiopia, she was now
banished to a vast distance from her native country, and reputed as
a bastard. I continued a considerable time in these contemplations,
deploring her present situation, and hardly daring to flatter myself
with better hopes for the future. At length I collected my scattered
spirits, and determined that something must be done, and that quickly.
I went, therefore, to Chariclea; I found her alone, almost overcome by
what she suffered: her mind willing to bear up against her malady; but
her body labouring, yielding, and unable to resist its attacks. When
I had sent out her attendants, and given orders that no one should
disturb us, on pretence that I had some prayers and invocations to make
use of over her, I thus addressed her:
"'It is now time, my dear Chariclea, to disclose to me (as you promised
yesterday) the cause of your sufferings. Hide nothing, I beseech you,
from a man who has the greatest regard for you; and whose art is
besides able to discover whatever you may obstinately endeavour to
conceal. '--She took my hand, kissed it and wept. 'Sage Calasiris,'
said she, 'permit me, I beg of you, to suffer in silence; and do
you, as you have it in your power, discover of yourself the cause
of my disease. Spare me the ignominy of confessing that which it is
shameful to feel, and still more shameful to avow. Whatever I undergo
from my disorder, I suffer more from the thought of my own weakness,
in permitting myself to be overcome by it, and not resisting it at
the beginning. It was always odious to me; the very mention of it
contaminates the chaste ears of a virgin. '
"'I acquiesce, my daughter,' I replied, 'in your silence. I do not
blame your reserve, and that for two reasons. In the first place, I
have no need to be told that which I have before discovered by my art;
and then an unwillingness to speak of a matter of this nature, becomes
well the modesty of your sex. But since you have at last felt love, and
are manifestly smitten by Theagenes (for this the gods have disclosed
to me), know that you are not the first, or the only one, who has
succumbed under this passion. It is common to you with many celebrated
women, and many maidens in other respects most irreproachable; for
love is a very powerful deity, and is said to subdue even the gods[10]
themselves. Consider then what is best to be done in your present
circumstances. If it be the greatest happiness to be free from love,
the next is, when one is taken captive, to regulate it properly: this
you have in your power to do; you can repel the imputation of mere
sensual love, and sanctify it with the honourable and sacred name of
wedlock. '
"When I said this, Cnemon, she showed much agitation, and great drops
of sweat stood on her forehead. It was plain that she rejoiced at what
she heard, but was anxious about the success of her hopes; and ashamed
and blushing at the discovery of her weakness. After a considerable
pause she said,
"'You talk of wedlock, and recommend that, as if it were evident that
my father would agree to it, or the author of my sufferings desire
it. '--'As to the young man, I have not the least doubt; he is more
deeply smitten than yourself, and suffers full as much on your account
as you can do on his. For, as it seems, your souls at their first
encountering knew that they were worthy of each other, and felt a
mutual passion; this passion, out of regard to you, I have heightened
by my art in Theagenes. But he whom you suppose your father, proposes
to give you another husband, Alcamenes, whom you well know. '--'He shall
sooner find Alcamenes a grave, than find him a wife in me,' said she;
'either Theagenes shall be my husband, or I will yield to the fate
which presses upon me. But why do you hint that Charicles is not really
my father? '
"'It is from this that I have my information,' I replied, shewing
her the fillet. --'Where did you get this? ' said she, 'or how? for
since I was brought, I hardly know how, from Egypt, Charicles has
kept it safely locked up in a chest lest any accident should happen
to it. '--'How I got it,' I returned, 'you shall hear another time; at
present tell me if you know what is written on it. '--She owned that she
was entirely ignorant of its contents. --'It discovers,' said I, 'your
family, your country, and your fortunes. '--She besought me to disclose
the purport of it; and I interpreted the whole writing to her, word for
word. When she came to know who she was, her spirit seemed to rise, in
conformity to her noble race. She asked me what was to be done at this
conjuncture. I then became more unreserved and explicit in my advice to
her.
"'I have been, my daughter,' said I, 'in Ethiopia; led by the desire
of making myself acquainted with their wisdom. I was known to your
mother Persina, for the royal palace was always open to the learned. I
acquired some reputation there, as I increased my own stock of Egyptian
knowledge by joining it to that of Ethiopia: and when I was preparing
to return home, the queen unbosomed herself to me, and disclosed
everything she knew relative to you, and your birth, exacting from me
first an oath of secrecy. She said she was afraid to confide in any
of the Ethiopian sages; and she earnestly besought me to consult the
gods as to whether you had been fortunately preserved; and if so, into
what part of the world you were: for she could hear no tidings of you
in Ethiopia, after a most diligent inquiry. The goodness of the gods
discovered by their oracles everything to me: and when I told her you
were still alive, and where you were, she was very earnest with me to
seek you out, and induce you to return to your native land; for she
had continued sorrowful and childless ever since you were exposed; and
was ready, if you should appear, to confess to her husband everything
which had happened. And she was inclined to hope that he would now
acknowledge you; having had so long experience of her virtue and good
conduct, and seeing an unexpected prospect arise of a successor to
his family. This she said, and besought me earnestly by the Sun, an
adjuration which no sage dare violate, to do what she desired of me. I
am now here, desirous to execute what I have been so strongly conjured
to do: and though another cause brought me into this country, I esteem
the pains of my wandering well repaid; and give thanks to the gods
that I have found you here, whom I have long been desirous of meeting
with. You know with what care I have cultivated your friendship--that
I concealed whatever I knew concerning you, till I could obtain
possession of this fillet, as a pledge of the truth of my relation. You
may now, if you will be persuaded, leave this country with me, before
you are obliged, by force, to do anything against your inclinations;
for I know that Charicles is taking every measure to bring about your
marriage with Alcamenes. You may return to your country, revisit your
family, and be restored to your parents accompanied by Theagenes,
your intended husband; and you may change your life of exile and
uncertainty for that of a princess, who shall hereafter reign with him
whom she most loves, if we may place confidence in the predictions of
the gods. ' I then put her in mind of the oracle of Apollo, and gave
her my explanation of it. She had heard of it before, for it was much
talked of, and its meaning inquired into. She paused at this: at last
she said, 'Since such, you think, is the will of the gods, and I am
inclined to believe your interpretation, what, Father, will be best
for me to do? '--'You must pretend,' said I, 'that you are willing to
marry Alcamenes. '--'But this is odious to me,' she replied; 'it is
disgraceful to give even a feigned promise to any but Theagenes: but
since I have given myself up to your direction, and that of the gods,
how far will this dissimulation lead me, so that I be not entangled in
any disagreeable circumstances by it? '--'The event will show you,'
said I; 'to tell you beforehand might cause some hesitation upon your
part, whereas suddenness in action will bring with it confidence and
boldness. Only follow my advice: seem, for the present, to agree to the
marriage which Charicles has so much at heart; he will not proceed in
it without my knowledge and direction. ' She wept, yet promised to be
guided by me, and I took my leave of her.
"I had scarcely got out of the chamber when I met Charicles, with a
very downcast and sorrowful air. --'You are a strange man,' said I:
'when you ought to rejoice, sacrifice, and give thanks to the gods,
for having obtained what you so long have wished for; when Chariclea
at last, with great difficulty, and the utmost exertions of my art and
wisdom, has been brought to yield to love, and to desire marriage;
you go about sad and drooping, and are ready to shed tears. What can
be the matter with you? '--'I have but too much reason for sorrow,' he
replied, 'when the delight of my eyes, before she can be married, as
you say she is inclined to be, is threatened to be hurried away from
me, if any faith is to be given to dreams, which on several nights,
and particularly on the last, have tormented me. Methought I saw an
eagle take his flight from the hand of Apollo, and stooping down
suddenly upon me, snatch my daughter, alas! out of my very bosom, and
bear her away to some extreme corner of the earth, full of dusky and
shadowy forms. I could not discover what became of them; for soon
the vast intermediate interval hid them from my sight. ' I instantly
conjectured what this dream portended; but I endeavoured to comfort
him, and to prevent his having the smallest suspicion of the real
truth. 'Considering that you are a priest,' I said, 'and are dedicated
to that deity who is most famous for oracles, you seem to me not to
have much skill in the interpretation of dreams. This darkly signifies
the approaching marriage of your child, and the eagle represents her
intended spouse: and when Apollo intimates this to you, and that it
is from his hands that your daughter is to receive a husband, you
seem displeased, and wrest the dream to an ominous interpretation.
Wherefore, my dear Charicles, let us be cautious what we say; let us
accommodate ourselves to the will of the gods, and use our utmost
endeavours to persuade the maiden.
"you will inform me at a proper season; in the mean time tell me in
what manner they signified, as you said, that this was not a common
dream, but a real appearance. "--"In the same manner, my son, as the
wise Homer intimates; though many do not perceive the hidden sense that
is contained in these lines:
Ἴνια γὰρ μετόπισθε ποδῶν ἠδέ κνημάων
Ῥεῖ', ἓγνων ἀπιοντός, ἀρίγνωτοί τε θεοί περ. [17]
"As they departed, I their legs and feet
To glide did see; the gods are known with ease. "
"I must confess," said Cnemon, "that I am one of the many, and perhaps
you imagined so when you quoted these verses. I have understood the
common sense of the words, ever since I first read them, but cannot
penetrate any hidden theological meaning that may be couched under
them. "--Calasiris considering a little, and applying his mind to the
explanation of this mystery, replied:
"The gods, O Cnemon, when they appear to, or disappear from us,
generally do it under a human shape--seldom under that of any other
animal; perhaps, in order that their appearance may have more the
semblance of reality. They may not be manifest to the profane,
but cannot be concealed from the sage. You may know them by their
eyes; they look on you with a fixed gaze, never winking with their
eye-lids--still more by their motion,[18] which is a kind of gliding,
an aerial impulse, without movement of the feet, cleaving rather than
traversing the air: for which reason the images of the Egyptian gods
have their feet joined together, and in a manner united. Wherefore
Homer, being an Egyptian, and instructed in their sacred doctrines,
covertly insinuated this matter in his verses, leaving it to be
understood by the intelligent. He mentions Pallas in this manner:
. . . . δεινὼ δὲ οἱ ὃσσε φάανθεν.
'Fierce glared her eyes. '
and Neptune in the lines quoted before--'ῥεῖν ἔγνων,'--as if gliding in
his gait; for so is the verse to be construed--'ῥεῑν απιόντος,' gliding
away; not, as some erroneously think, 'ῥεῑ' εγνων,' I easily knew him. "
"You have initiated me into this mystery," replied Cnemon; "but how
come you to call Homer an Egyptian? It is the first time I ever heard
him called so. I will not insist that he is not your countryman; but
I should be exceedingly glad to hear your reasons for claiming him
as such. "--"This is not exactly the time," said Calasiris, "for such
a discussion; however, as you desire it, I will shortly mention the
grounds upon which I go.
"Different authors have ascribed to Homer different countries--indeed
the country of a wise man[19] is in every land; but he was, in fact,
an Egyptian, of the city of Thebes, as you may learn from himself.
His supposed father was a priest there; his real one, Mercury. For
the wife of the priest whose son he was taken to be, while she was
celebrating some sacred mysteries, slept in the temple. Mercury
enjoyed her company; and impregnated her with Homer; and he bore to
his dying day a mark of his spurious origin. From Thebes he wandered
into various countries, and particularly into Greece; singing his
verses, and obtaining the name he bore. He never told his real one,
nor his country, nor family; but those who knew of this mark upon his
body, took occasion from it to give him the name of Homer;[20] for,
immediately from his birth, a profusion of hair appeared upon both his
thighs. "
"On what account, my father, did he conceal the place of his
birth? "--"Possibly he was unwilling to appear a fugitive; for he was
driven out by his father, and not admitted among the sacred youths,
on account of the peculiar mark he bore on his body, indicating his
spurious origin. Or, perhaps, he had a wise design in keeping the real
spot of his nativity a secret, as by so doing he might claim every land
he passed through as his fatherland. "--"I cannot help," said Cnemon,
"being half persuaded of the truth of this account you give of Homer.
His poems breathe all the softness and luxuriance of Egypt; and from
their excellency, bespeak something of a divine original in their
author.
"But after that, by Homer's assistance, you had discovered the true
nature of these deities, what happened? "--"Much the same as before:
watchings, thoughts, and cares, which night and darkness nourish. I was
glad that I had discovered something, which I had in vain attempted to
explain before; and rejoiced at the near prospect of my return to my
country. But I was grieved to think that Charicles was to be deprived
of his daughter. I was in great doubt in what manner the young people
were to be taken away together; how to prepare for their flight; how to
do it privately, whither to direct it; and whether by land or by sea.
In short, I was overwhelmed with a sea of troubles[21] and spent the
remainder of the night restless, and without sleep. But the day scarce
began to dawn, when I heard a knocking at the gate of my court, and
somebody calling my servant.
"The boy asked who it was that knocked, and what he wanted. The person
replied, that he was Theagenes the Thessalian. --I was very glad to hear
this, and ordered him to be introduced; thinking this an excellent
opportunity to lay some foundation for the design I meditated. I
supposed that, having discovered at the entertainment that I was an
Egyptian, and a priest, he came to ask my advice and assistance in
the attachment which now influenced him. He thought, perhaps, as many
wrongly do, that the science of the Egyptians was only of one sort.
But there is one branch in the hands of the common mass, as I may
say, crawling on the ground; busied in the service of idols, and the
care of dead bodies; poring over herbs, and murmuring incantations;
neither itself aiming, nor leading those who apply to it to aim, at any
good end; and most frequently failing in what it professes to effect.
Sometimes succeeding in matters of a gloomy and despicable nature;
showing imaginary visions as though real; encouraging wickedness; and
ministering to lawless pleasures. But the other branch of Egyptian
science, my son, is the true wisdom; of which that which I have just
mentioned is the base-born offspring. This is that in which our
priests and seers are from their youth initiated. This is of a far
more excellent nature; looks to heavenly things, and converses with
the gods; inquires into the motions of the stars, and gains an insight
into futurity; far removed from evil and earthly matters, and turning
all its views to what is honourable and beneficial to mankind. It was
this which prompted me to retire a while from my country--to avoid,
if possible, the ills which it enabled me to foresee, and the discord
which was to arise between my children. But these events must be left
to the gods, and the fates, who have power either to accomplish or to
hinder them; and who, perhaps, ordained my flight, in order that I
might meet with Chariclea. I will now proceed with my narration.
"Theagenes entered my apartment; and, after I had received and returned
his salute, I placed him near me on the bed, and asked what was the
occasion of so early a visit. --He stroked his face, and, after a
long pause, said: 'I am in the greatest perplexity, and yet blush to
disclose the cause of it:'--and here he stopped. I saw that this was
the time for dissimulation, and for pretending to discover what I
already knew. Looking therefore archly upon him, I said, 'Though you
seem unwilling to speak out, yet nothing escapes my knowledge, with
the assistance of the gods. '--With this I raised myself a little,
counting over certain numbers upon my fingers, (which in reality meant
nothing); shaking my locks, like one moreover under a sudden influence
of the divinity, I cried out, 'My son, you are in love. '--He started at
this; but, when I added--'and with Chariclea,' he thought I was really
divinely inspired; and was ready to fall at my feet, and worship me.
When I prevented this, he[22] kissed my head, and gave thanks to the
gods that he had really found my knowledge as great as he expected.
He besought me to be his preserver; for, unless preserved by my
assistance, and that quickly, he was undone, so violent a passion had
seized upon him; desire so consumed him--him, who now first knew what
it was to love.
"He swore to me, with many protestations, that he never had enjoyed
the company of women--that he had always rejected them--and professed
himself an enemy to marriage, and a rebel to Venus, until subdued
by the charms of Chariclea--that this did not arise from any forced
temperance, or natural coldness of constitution; but he had never
before seen a woman whom he thought worthy of his love--and having
said this, he wept, as if indignant at being subdued by a weak girl. I
raised him, comforted, and bade him be of good cheer; for, since he had
applied to me, he should find that her coyness would yield to my art. I
knew that she was haughty, protesting against love, so as not to bear
even the name of Venus or wedlock; but I would leave no stone unturned
to serve him. 'Art,' said I, 'can not outdo even nature: only be not
cast down, but act as I shall direct you. '
"He promised that he would obey me in every thing; even if I should
order him to go through fire and sword. While he was thus eager in
protestations, and profuse in his promises of laying at my feet all
he was worth, a messenger came from Charicles, saying that his master
desired me to come to him--that he was near, in the temple of Apollo,
where he was chanting a hymn to appease the deity; having been much
disturbed in the night by a dream.
"I arose immediately, and dismissing Theagenes, hastened to the temple;
where I found Charicles reclining sorrowfully upon a seat, and sighing
deeply. I approached him, and inquired why he was so melancholy and
cast down. --'How can I be otherwise,' he replied, 'when I have been
terrified by dreams? and hear too, this morning, that my daughter
still continues indisposed, and has passed a sleepless night. I am the
more concerned at this, not only on her own account, but also because
to-morrow is the day appointed for the display of those who[23] run in
armour; at which ceremony the priestess of Diana is to preside, and
hold up a torch. Either, therefore, the festival will lose much of its
accustomed splendour by her absence; or if she comes against her will,
she may increase her illness. Wherefore let me now beseech you, by
our friendship, and by the god at whose altar we are, to come to her
assistance, and think of some remedy. I know you can easily, if you
please, cure this fascination, if such it be--the priests of Egypt can
do far greater things than these. '
"I confessed that I had been negligent (the better to carry on the
deception); and requested a day's time to prepare some medicines,
which I thought necessary for her cure. 'Let us now, however,' I
continued, 'make her a visit; consider more accurately the nature of
her complaint; and, if possible, administer to her some consolation.
At the same time, Charicles, I beg you will say a few words to her
concerning me; inspire her with regard for my person, and confidence in
my skill, that so the cure may proceed the better. ' He promised that he
would do so; and we went together. But why say much of the situation
in which we found the luckless Chariclea? She was entirely prostrated
by her passion; the bloom was flown from her cheeks; and tears flowing
like water had extinguished the lustre of her eyes. She endeavoured,
however to compose herself, when she saw us; and to resume her usual
voice and countenance. Charicles embraced, kissed and soothed her. 'My
dear daughter,' he cried, 'why will you hide your sufferings from your
father? and while you labour under a fascination, you are silent as if
you were the injurer, instead of being the injured party: an evil eye
has certainly looked upon you. But be of good cheer; here is the wise
Calasiris, who has promised to attempt your cure; and he, if any one
is able, can effect it; for he has been bred up from his youth in the
study of things divine, and is himself a priest; and what is more than
all, he is my dearest friend. Resign yourself up, therefore, entirely
to his management; suffer him to treat you as he pleases, either by
incantations or any other method--you have, I know, no aversion to the
company and conversation of the wise. '
"Chariclea motioned her consent, as though not displeased at the
proposal--and we then took our leave; Charicles putting me in mind of
what he had first recommended to my anxious care; beseeching me, if
possible, to inspire his daughter with an inclination for love and
marriage. I sent him away in good spirits: assuring him that I would
shortly bring about what he seemed to have so much at heart. "
[Footnote 1: Σιμοὶ. ]
[Footnote 2:
Tὰν θέτιν ἀείδω, χρυσοἐθεφα θέτι,
Νηρέως ἀθανάταν εἰvaλίoιo Κόραν,
Τὰν Διός ἐννεσίη Πήλεϊ γημαμέναν;
Τὰν ἁλός ἀγλαίαν, ἀμετὲραν Παφίην·
Ή τὸν δουριμανή τόν τ'"Αρεα πτολέμων,
Έλλάδος ἀστερoπαν ἐζέτεκεν λαγόνων
Δῖον Άχιλλῆα, τοῦ κλέος οὐράνιον
Τῷ ὑπὸ Πύῤῥα τέκεν πᾶιδα Νεοπτόλεμον
Περσέπολιν Τρώων, ῥυσίπολιν Δαναῶν·
Ιλήκοις ἤρως ἄμμι Nεοπτόλεμε,
Ὅλζίε Πνθιάδι νῦν χθονὶ κευθόμενε.
Αέχνυσο δ'εὐμενέων τῶνδε θυηπολίην'
Πᾶν δ' ἀπέρυκε δέος άμετέρας πόλιός.
Tὰν θέτιν ἀείδω, χρυσοέθειρα θέτι.
]
[Footnote 3:
"To brisk notes in cadence beating,
Glance their many-twinkling feet. "--Gray.
]
[Footnote 4:
"Armed he rode, all save the head;
. . . . . .
He ruled his eager courser's gait;
Forced him with chastened fire to prance,
And, high curvetting, slow advance. "
Lay of the Last Minstrel, iv. 18.
]
[Footnote 5: The ancients were very exact in performing their devotions
to the gods of the night, before they went to bed, or when they broke
up an entertainment. Mercury was one of the principal of these deities.
Homer takes notice of this custom:
"The chiefs he found and senators within
Libation pouring to the vigilant spy
Mercurius, whom with wine they worshipp'd last
Of all the gods, and at the hour of rest. "
Od. vii. 136. --Cowper.
]
[Footnote 6: Όλόλυξαν μὲν aἱ γυνᾶικες, ἠλάλαξαν δὲ οἱ ἄνδρες. ]
[Footnote 7:
"It is the secret sympathy,
The silver link, the silken tie,
Which heart to heart and mind to mind
In body and in soul can bind. "
Lay of the Last Minstrel, v. 14.
]
[Footnote 8: This incident forms the subject of a painting by Raphael. ]
[Footnote 9:
". . . micat inter omnea
. . . velut inter ignes----
Luna minorea. "--Hor. I. Od. xii. 47.
]
[Footnote 10: Τοὺς ὀφθαλμους Ἓρωτι διαβρόχους.
"Et dulcis pueri _ebrios_ ocellos
Illo purpureo ore suaviata. "--Catullus, c. 42.
]
[Footnote 11: "Nescio quis teneros oculus mihi fascinat agnos. "--Virg.
Ec. iii. Theocritus (Id. v. 39,) alludes to the method of averting
fascination:
"Ώς μὴ βασκανθῶ δὲ, τρὶς εἰς ἐμὸν ἓπτυσα κόλπον. "
]
[Footnote 12: A passage illustrative of this occurs in Achilles Tatius,
B. i. 4: Κάλλος ὀξύτερον τιτρώσκει βέλους, καὶ δια τῶν ὀφθαλμῶν εἰς τὴν
ψυχην καταῤῥεῖ ὀφθαλμὸς yὰρ ἐδoς ἐρωτικῷ τράυμάτι. ]
[Footnote 13: Supposed to be the lapwing or curlew. ]
[Footnote 14: Tὴν ἀπὸ ξύλου κλῆσιν ἥκει φέρων. ]
[Footnote 15: Φιλίαν ἥδε ἡμῖν ἡ τράπεζα σπενδέθω. ]
[Footnote 16: Mη ὄναρ αλλ' ὔαρ. ]
[Footnote 17: Iliad, xiii. 71. Heliodorus, says the Bipont editor,
evidently intended the line in Homer to be read--Ῥεῖν ἕγνων
ἀπιοντός--instead of Ῥεῖ. . . . ]
[Footnote 18: "Vera incessu patuit Dea. "--Virg. Æn. i. 405. ]
[Footnote 19: "Ogni stanza al valent' uomo è patria. "--Guarini, Pastor
Fido. ]
[Footnote 20: Ομηρος--μηρός in Greek signifies a thigh. For the various
accounts respecting Homer, and the origin of his name, see p. 59 of
Coleridge's Introd. to the Classic Poets. ]
[Footnote 21: Κλύδων φροντισμάτωρ. "Or to take arms against _a sea of
troubles_. "--Shakspeare. ]
[Footnote 22: "Φιλήσω τ', εί θἐμις, τὸ σὸν κάρα. "--Soph. Œd. Col. 1131. ]
[Footnote 23: Of one of whom Pindar says--
'Εθέλω χαλκόσπιδα Πυθιoνίκαν
. . . . γεγωνεῖν. --Pyth. xi. 1.
]
BOOK IV.
"The ensuing day ended the Pythian games; but not the conflict of
the youthful pair; Love was the arbiter, and in the persons of these
his combatants, determined to exhibit his mightiest contest. Towards
the end of the ceremony, when all Greece was looking on, and the
Amphictyons sat as judges; when the races, the wrestlings, and the
boxing matches were over; a herald came forward, and made proclamation
for the men in armour to appear. At that instant the priestess
Chariclea shone out like some fair star at the end of the course; for
she had prevailed with herself, however unfit, to come forth, that she
might comply with the custom of her country: and perhaps not without
a secret hope of seeing Theagenes. She bore a torch in her left hand,
and a branch of palm in her right. At her appearance every eye in the
assembly was turned upon her, but none sooner than that of Theagenes;
for what is so quick as the glance of a lover? He, who perhaps had
heard that it was probable she might come, had his whole mind intent
upon that expectation; and, when she appeared, was not able to contain
himself; but said softly to me, who sat next to him, ''Tis she herself;
'tis Chariclea! ' I bid him be silent, and compose himself. And now,
at the summons of the herald, a warrior stood forth; splendidly armed,
of noble air, and distinguished appearance; who had formerly been
victor in many contests, but at this meeting had not engaged in any,
probably because he could not find a competitor; and none now appearing
to oppose him, the Amphyctyons ordered him to retire, the law not
permitting any one to be crowned who had not contended. He begged the
herald might be suffered again to make proclamation, which he did,
calling upon some one to enter the lists.
"Theagenes said to me, 'This man calls upon me. '--'How so? ' said
I,--'He does indeed,' he replied; 'for no other, while I am present and
behold it, shall receive a crown from the hands of Chariclea. '--'But do
you not consider the disgrace, if you should fail of success? '--'Will
any one outrun me in speed and in desire to see and be near
Chariclea? [1] To whom will the sight of her add swifter wings and
more impetuous speed? You know that the painters make Love winged,
signifying thereby how rapid are the motions of his captives; and, were
I inclined to boast, I could say that no one hitherto has been able to
excel me in swiftness. '--And immediately he sprang up, came forward,
gave in his name and family, and took his allotted place.
"He stood there in complete armour, expecting with trembling eagerness
the signal of the trumpet, and scarce able to wait for it. It was a
noble and all-engrossing spectacle, as when Homer[2] describes Achilles
contending on the banks of Scamander. The whole assembly was moved
at his unexpected appearance, and felt as much interested in his
success as they would have done for their own; such power has beauty
to conciliate the minds of men. But Chariclea was affected more than
all: I watched her countenance, and saw the changes of it. And when
the herald proclaimed the names of the racers--Ormenus the Arcadian,
and Theagenes the Thessalian--when they sprang forward from the goal,
and ran together with a swiftness almost too rapid for the eye to
follow--then the maiden was unable to contain herself; her limbs
trembled, and her feet quivered, as if they could assist the course of
her lover, on whom her whole soul was intent.
The spectators were on
the very tiptoe of expectation, and full of solicitude for the issue;
and I more than all, who had now determined to regard Theagenes as my
own son. "
"No wonder," said Cnemon, "that those present were in an agony of
expectation; when I, even now, am trembling for Theagenes. Deliver me,
therefore, I beseech you, as soon as you can, out of my suspense. "
"When they had not finished more than half their course," continued
Calasiris, "Theagenes turning a little, and casting a stern glance at
Ormenus, lifted up his shield on high, and stretching out his neck, and
fixing his eyes intently on Chariclea, flew like an arrow to the goal,
leaving the Arcadian far behind him. When he reached the maiden, he
fell upon her bosom; not, I imagine, without design, but in appearance
as if unable to check on a sudden the rapidity of his pace. When he
took the palm from her hand, I observed he kissed it. "
"You have relieved my mind," said Cnemon; "I rejoice that he has both
obtained the victory, and kissed his mistress. But what happened
afterwards? "--"You are not only insatiable of hearing, Cnemon, but
invincible by sleep; a great part of the night is now spent, and you
are still wakeful, still attentive to my tedious story. "--"I am at feud
with Homer,[3] father, for saying that love, as well as everything
else, brings satiety in the end; for my part I am never tired either
of feeling it myself, or hearing of its influence on others; and
lives there the man of so iron and adamantine an heart, as not to be
enchanted with listening to the loves of Theagenes and Chariclea,
though the story were to last a year? Go on, therefore, I beseech you. "
"Theagenes," continued Calasiris, "was crowned, proclaimed victor,
and conducted home with universal applause. But Chariclea was utterly
vanquished; the second sight of Theagenes fixed deep that love which
the first had inspired; for the mutual looks of lovers revive and
redouble their passion; sight inflames the imagination, as fuel
increases fire. She went home, and spent a night as bad or worse than
the former one. I, too, was sleepless as before, ruminating how I
should conceal our flight, and into what country it was the intention
of the gods that I should conduct my young companions. I conjectured,
from the words of the oracle, that it was to be by sea:
----'and oceans past,
In regions torrid shall arrive at last;'
but I could think only of one method to obtain some information whither
I ought to take them; and that was, if I could gain a sight of the
fillet which was exposed with Chariclea; on which, as Charicles said,
some particulars relating to her were written. It was probable that I
might learn from thence the names of her parents, and of her country,
which I already guessed at; and it was thither, most likely, that the
fates would direct her course. I went, therefore, in the morning, to
the apartment of Chariclea; I found all her servants in tears, and
Charicles in the deepest distress. I inquired into the cause of this
agitation.
"'My daughter's malady,' he replied, 'increases visibly; she has
passed a wretched night, worse than the preceding one. '--Upon this
I desired that he, and all who were present, would leave the room;
and that some one would procure for me a tripod, laurel, fire, and
frankincense; and that no one would disturb me till I should call for
them. Charicles ordered everything to be disposed as I desired. When I
was left at liberty, I began a kind of scenical representation; I burnt
my incense, I muttered a few prayers, and with the branch of laurel
stroked Chariclea several times from head to foot. At last, after
having played a hundred fooleries with myself and the maiden, I began
yawning, grew tired of the mummery, and ceased. She smiled, shook her
head, and signified that I was in an error, and had entirely mistaken
the nature of her disorder. I approached nearer to her, and bid her be
of good cheer, for her malady was by no means, uncommon or difficult
of cure--that she was undoubtedly fascinated, perhaps when she was
present at the procession, but most probably when she presided at the
race--that I suspected who had fascinated her--that my suspicions fell
upon Theagenes, who ran the armour race; for I had observed with what
an intent and ardent eye he gazed upon her.
"'Whether he looked at me or not,' she replied, 'say no more of him;
yet tell me who is he, and whence does he come? I saw many admiring
him. '--I told her that she had already heard from the herald that
he was a Thessalian--that he himself claimed to be of the family of
Achilles; and, I thought, not without great appearance of truth: for
his beauty and stature bespoke him a descendant from that hero. Yet he
was not, like[4] him, insolent or arrogant, but possessed an elevated
mind, tempered with sweetness; 'and though he has an evil eye, and has
fascinated you, he suffers worse torments than he has inflicted. '
"'Father,' said she, 'I am obliged to you for the compassion you
express for me; but do not wish ill to one who perhaps has not
committed any wrong. My malady is not fascination, but, I think, of
another kind. '--'Why do you conceal it then, my daughter, and not
tell it freely, that you may meet with some relief? Consider me as a
father to you, in age at least, and more in good-will. Am not I well
known to, and the intimate friend of, Charicles? Tell me the cause of
your disorder: put confidence in me; I swear I will not betray it.
Speak freely, and do not increase your sufferings by concealing them:
there is no disease, which when easily known, is not easily cured; but
that which is become inveterate by time is almost incurable--silence
nourishes anguish; what is disclosed admits of consolation and
relief. '--After a pause, in which her countenance betrayed the various
agitations of her mind, she said, 'Suffer me to continue silent to-day,
I will be more explicit hereafter; if the art of divination, in which
you are skilled, has not already discovered to you all I have to tell
you. '
"Upon this I arose and took my leave, hinting to the maiden the
necessity of overcoming her modesty and reserve. Charicles met me.
'What have you to tell me? ' said he. 'All good news,' I replied.
'To-morrow your daughter shall be cured of her complaint, and
something else shall happen which you greatly desire; in the meantime,
however, it may not be amiss to send for a physician:' and having said
this, I retired, that he might ask me no more questions.
"I had not gone far, when I saw Theagenes wandering about the precincts
of the temple, talking to himself, and seeming satisfied if he could
only see the place where Chariclea dwelt. Turning aside, I passed by
as if I had not observed him; but he cried out, 'Calasiris, I rejoice
to see you! listen to me; I have been long waiting for you. ' I turned
suddenly. 'My handsome Theagenes,' said I, 'I did not observe you. '
'How can he be handsome,' he replied, 'who cannot please Chariclea? '
I pretended to be angry. 'Will you not cease,' I said, 'to dishonour
me and my art, which has already worked upon her, and compelled her to
love you? and she now desires, above all things, to see you. ' 'To see
me! ' he exclaimed; 'what is it you tell me? why do not you instantly
lead me to her:' and immediately he began advancing. I caught hold of
his robe: 'Hold,' I cried, 'however famous you are for speed, this is
not a business to be ventured upon in haste; it requires consideration
and management, and many preparations, in order to ensure success and
safety. You must not think to bear off by force so rich a prize. Do
not you know that her father is one of the principal men of Delphi;
and that such an attempt would here incur a capital punishment? ' 'I
regard not death,' he replied, 'if I can possess Chariclea; however,
if you think it better, let us ask her in marriage of her father. I am
not unworthy of his alliance. ' 'We should not obtain her,' I answered;
'not that there can be any objection to you, but Charicles has long ago
promised her to his sister's son. ' 'He shall have no reason to rejoice
in his good fortune,' said Theagenes. 'No one, while I am alive,
shall make Chariclea his bride; my hand and sword have not yet so far
forgot their office. ' 'Moderate your passion,' I replied; 'there is no
occasion for your sword; only be guided by me, and do as I shall direct
you. At present retire, and avoid being seen often in public with me;
but visit me sometimes, quietly and in private. ' He went away quite
cast down.
"On the morrow Charicles met me: as soon as he saw me he ran up to
me, and repeatedly kissed my head, crying out, 'How great is the force
of wisdom and friendship! You have accomplished the great work. The
impregnable is taken. The invincible is vanquished. Chariclea is in
love! '
"At this I began to arch my eyebrows: I put on a consequential air, and
proudly paced the room. 'No marvel,' said I, 'that she has not been
able to resist even the first application of my spells, and yet I have
hitherto employed only some of the weakest of them. But how came you
acquainted with what you are rejoicing at? ' 'According to your advice,'
said he, 'I sent for some physicians of whom I had a high opinion.
I took them to visit my daughter, promising them large fees if they
could afford her any relief. As soon as they entered her apartment they
inquired into the cause of her complaint. She turned from them, made no
reply to their inquiries, and kept repeating a verse from Homer,[5] the
sense of which is,--
"Achilles, Peleus' son, thou flower of Greeks. "
At length the sagacious Acestinus (perhaps you know him) seized her
unwilling hand, hoping to discover by her pulse the movements of her
heart. He felt it, and, after some consideration, said, "Ο Charicles,
it is in vain you call upon us for assistance; the leech's art can here
be of no use. " "My God," cried I, "what is it you say? My daughter is
dying, and you give me no hope. " "Compose yourself," he replied, "and
attend to me;" and taking me aside he thus addressed me:---
"'"Our art professes to heal only the disorders of the body, not those
of the mind, except only when the mind suffers with the afflicted
body; when one is cured the other is relieved. Your daughter certainly
labours under a malady, but it is not a corporeal one. She has no
redundant humours, no head-ache, no fever, no distemper which has its
origin in the body--this I can venture to pronounce. " I besought him,
if he knew what really ailed her, that he would tell me. At last he
said, "Does she not know herself that the malady is a mental one--that
it is, in one word, love? Do you not see how her swelled eyes, her
unsettled look, her pale countenance, betray the wounded heart? Her
thoughts wander, her discourse is unconnected, she gets no sleep, and
visibly falls away; some relief must be sought for, but he alone for
whom she pines can, I think, afford it. " Having so said, he took his
leave. I hastened to you, as to a god and preserver, who alone have
it in your power, as both I and my daughter acknowledge, to do us
good. For when I was pressing her, in the most affectionate manner, to
discover to me the cause of her complaint, she answered that she knew
not what was the matter with her; this only she knew, that Calasiris
alone could heal her, and besought me to call you to her; from which I
perceive that she has the greatest opinion of, and confidence in, your
wisdom. '
"'Since you have found out that she is in love,' I replied, 'can you
conjecture with whom? ' 'No, by Apollo,' said he; 'how should I discover
that? I wish with all my heart it may be with Alcamenes, my sister's
son. I have long destined him for her spouse, if my wishes can have
weight with her. ' I told him it was easy to make the experiment, by
bringing the young man into her presence. He seemed to approve of this
and went away.
"Soon after I met him in the market-place. 'I have very disagreeable
news,' said he, 'my daughter is certainly possessed, she behaves in
so strange a manner. I introduced Alcamenes to her, as you desired;
and he had taken care about his personal appearance, but she, as if
she had seen the Gorgon's head, or anything more frightful, gave a
piercing shriek, turned her face aside, and, grasping her neck with
both her hands, protested that she would strangle herself, if we did
not instantly leave the room. This, you may imagine, we hastened to do
upon seeing such monstrously strange conduct. And we again entreat you
to save her life, and to fulfil, if possible, our wishes. '
"'O Charicles,' I replied, 'you were not mistaken in saying your
daughter was possessed. She is, indeed, beset by those powers which
I was obliged to employ against her. They are very potent, and are
compelling her to that from which her nature and constitution is
averse. But it seems to me that some opposing deity counteracts my
measures, and is fighting against my ministers; wherefore it is
necessary that I should see the fillet which you told me was exposed
with your daughter, and which you had preserved with the other tokens:
I fear it may contain some witcheries and magic which work upon her
mind, the contrivance of an enemy, who wishes her to continue all her
life single, childless, and averse to love. ' Charicles assented to what
Ϊ said, and presently brought me the fillet. I begged and obtained
time to consider it. I took it eagerly with me to my apartment, and
began immediately to read what was written on it. The characters
were Ethiopian;[6] not the common ones, but such as those of royal
birth make use of, which are the same as the sacred writings of the
Egyptians; and this was the tenor of the inscription:--
"'Persina, Queen of Ethiopia, inscribes this, her lament, as a last
gift to an unfortunate daughter, who has not yet obtained a name, and
is known to her only by the pangs she cost. '
"I shuddered, Cnemon, when I read the name of Persina; however, I read
on as follows:---
"'I call the Sun to witness, the author of my race, that I do not
expose you, my child, and withdraw you from the sight of your father
Hydaspes, on account of any crime of mine. Yet I would willingly
excuse myself to you, if you should happen to survive, and to him who
shall take you up, if propitious providence vouchsafes to send you a
preserver, and relate to the world the cause of my exposing you.
"'Of the gods we count the Sun and Bacchus among our ancestors; of
the heroes, Perseus, Andromeda, and Memnon. Our kings, at various
times, have adorned the royal apartments with pictures of them and
their exploits; some ornamented the porticoes and men's apartments:
our bed-chamber was painted with the story of Perseus and Andromeda.
There, in the tenth year after our marriage, when as yet we had no
child, I retired to repose myself during the scorching heat of noon;
and here your father, Hydaspes, visited me, being warned to do so by
a dream. In consequence of this visit I became pregnant. The whole
time of my pregnancy was a continual feast, a course of sacrifices and
thanksgivings to the gods, for the near prospect, long wished for, of
a successor to the kingdom. [7] But when at last I brought you forth,
a white infant, so different from the Ethiopian hue, I was at no loss
to explain the cause, since, in the embraces of your father,[8] I
had kept my eyes fixed on the picture of Andromeda, whom the painter
had represented just unchained from the rock, and my imagination had
communicated her complexion to my unhappy offspring. But this, though
satisfactory to me, might not have been so to any one else. I dreaded
the being accused of adultery, and the punishment which awaits that
crime: I committed you, therefore, to the wide world and to fortune.
I thought this better even for you than death, or the disgrace of
being called a bastard, one of which fates must have awaited you had
I preserved you at home. I told my husband that my child was dead,
and exposed you privately, placing as many valuables with you as I
could collect, by way of reward for whoever should find and bring you
up. Among other ornaments I put this fillet upon you, stained with my
own blood and containing this melancholy account, which I have traced
out in the midst of tears and sorrows, when I first brought you into
the world, and was overwhelmed with grief and consternation. And, oh
my sweet, yet soon lost daughter, if you should survive, remember
the noble race from which you spring; honour and cultivate virtue
and modesty, the chief recommendations of a woman, and ornaments of
a queen. But, among the jewels which are exposed with you, remember
to inquire after, and claim for yourself a ring which your father
gave me when he sought me in marriage. The circle of it is inscribed
with royal characters, and in its bezil[9] the stone Pantarbè, which
possesses occult and powerful virtue. I have given you this account
in writing, since cruel fortune denies me the happiness of doing it
in person; my pains may have been taken to no purpose, but they may
be of use to you; the designs of fate are inscrutable by mortals.
These words (oh vainly beautiful, and bringing, by your beauty, an
imputation on her who bore you), if you should be preserved, may serve
as a token to discover your race; if otherwise (which may I never
hear! ) they will be the funeral lament of an afflicted mother. '
"When I read this, Cnemon, I acknowledged and wondered at the
dispensations of the deities. I felt both pleasure and pain by a new
kind of sensation; I rejoiced and wept at the same time. I was glad
to have discovered what I was before ignorant of, together with the
meaning of the oracle: but I was apprehensive for the event of the
design I was engaged in; and lamented the instability and uncertainty,
the changes and the chances of human life, of which the fortunes of
Chariclea afforded so remarkable an instance. I recollected that, with
her high birth, heiress of the royal family of Ethiopia, she was now
banished to a vast distance from her native country, and reputed as
a bastard. I continued a considerable time in these contemplations,
deploring her present situation, and hardly daring to flatter myself
with better hopes for the future. At length I collected my scattered
spirits, and determined that something must be done, and that quickly.
I went, therefore, to Chariclea; I found her alone, almost overcome by
what she suffered: her mind willing to bear up against her malady; but
her body labouring, yielding, and unable to resist its attacks. When
I had sent out her attendants, and given orders that no one should
disturb us, on pretence that I had some prayers and invocations to make
use of over her, I thus addressed her:
"'It is now time, my dear Chariclea, to disclose to me (as you promised
yesterday) the cause of your sufferings. Hide nothing, I beseech you,
from a man who has the greatest regard for you; and whose art is
besides able to discover whatever you may obstinately endeavour to
conceal. '--She took my hand, kissed it and wept. 'Sage Calasiris,'
said she, 'permit me, I beg of you, to suffer in silence; and do
you, as you have it in your power, discover of yourself the cause
of my disease. Spare me the ignominy of confessing that which it is
shameful to feel, and still more shameful to avow. Whatever I undergo
from my disorder, I suffer more from the thought of my own weakness,
in permitting myself to be overcome by it, and not resisting it at
the beginning. It was always odious to me; the very mention of it
contaminates the chaste ears of a virgin. '
"'I acquiesce, my daughter,' I replied, 'in your silence. I do not
blame your reserve, and that for two reasons. In the first place, I
have no need to be told that which I have before discovered by my art;
and then an unwillingness to speak of a matter of this nature, becomes
well the modesty of your sex. But since you have at last felt love, and
are manifestly smitten by Theagenes (for this the gods have disclosed
to me), know that you are not the first, or the only one, who has
succumbed under this passion. It is common to you with many celebrated
women, and many maidens in other respects most irreproachable; for
love is a very powerful deity, and is said to subdue even the gods[10]
themselves. Consider then what is best to be done in your present
circumstances. If it be the greatest happiness to be free from love,
the next is, when one is taken captive, to regulate it properly: this
you have in your power to do; you can repel the imputation of mere
sensual love, and sanctify it with the honourable and sacred name of
wedlock. '
"When I said this, Cnemon, she showed much agitation, and great drops
of sweat stood on her forehead. It was plain that she rejoiced at what
she heard, but was anxious about the success of her hopes; and ashamed
and blushing at the discovery of her weakness. After a considerable
pause she said,
"'You talk of wedlock, and recommend that, as if it were evident that
my father would agree to it, or the author of my sufferings desire
it. '--'As to the young man, I have not the least doubt; he is more
deeply smitten than yourself, and suffers full as much on your account
as you can do on his. For, as it seems, your souls at their first
encountering knew that they were worthy of each other, and felt a
mutual passion; this passion, out of regard to you, I have heightened
by my art in Theagenes. But he whom you suppose your father, proposes
to give you another husband, Alcamenes, whom you well know. '--'He shall
sooner find Alcamenes a grave, than find him a wife in me,' said she;
'either Theagenes shall be my husband, or I will yield to the fate
which presses upon me. But why do you hint that Charicles is not really
my father? '
"'It is from this that I have my information,' I replied, shewing
her the fillet. --'Where did you get this? ' said she, 'or how? for
since I was brought, I hardly know how, from Egypt, Charicles has
kept it safely locked up in a chest lest any accident should happen
to it. '--'How I got it,' I returned, 'you shall hear another time; at
present tell me if you know what is written on it. '--She owned that she
was entirely ignorant of its contents. --'It discovers,' said I, 'your
family, your country, and your fortunes. '--She besought me to disclose
the purport of it; and I interpreted the whole writing to her, word for
word. When she came to know who she was, her spirit seemed to rise, in
conformity to her noble race. She asked me what was to be done at this
conjuncture. I then became more unreserved and explicit in my advice to
her.
"'I have been, my daughter,' said I, 'in Ethiopia; led by the desire
of making myself acquainted with their wisdom. I was known to your
mother Persina, for the royal palace was always open to the learned. I
acquired some reputation there, as I increased my own stock of Egyptian
knowledge by joining it to that of Ethiopia: and when I was preparing
to return home, the queen unbosomed herself to me, and disclosed
everything she knew relative to you, and your birth, exacting from me
first an oath of secrecy. She said she was afraid to confide in any
of the Ethiopian sages; and she earnestly besought me to consult the
gods as to whether you had been fortunately preserved; and if so, into
what part of the world you were: for she could hear no tidings of you
in Ethiopia, after a most diligent inquiry. The goodness of the gods
discovered by their oracles everything to me: and when I told her you
were still alive, and where you were, she was very earnest with me to
seek you out, and induce you to return to your native land; for she
had continued sorrowful and childless ever since you were exposed; and
was ready, if you should appear, to confess to her husband everything
which had happened. And she was inclined to hope that he would now
acknowledge you; having had so long experience of her virtue and good
conduct, and seeing an unexpected prospect arise of a successor to
his family. This she said, and besought me earnestly by the Sun, an
adjuration which no sage dare violate, to do what she desired of me. I
am now here, desirous to execute what I have been so strongly conjured
to do: and though another cause brought me into this country, I esteem
the pains of my wandering well repaid; and give thanks to the gods
that I have found you here, whom I have long been desirous of meeting
with. You know with what care I have cultivated your friendship--that
I concealed whatever I knew concerning you, till I could obtain
possession of this fillet, as a pledge of the truth of my relation. You
may now, if you will be persuaded, leave this country with me, before
you are obliged, by force, to do anything against your inclinations;
for I know that Charicles is taking every measure to bring about your
marriage with Alcamenes. You may return to your country, revisit your
family, and be restored to your parents accompanied by Theagenes,
your intended husband; and you may change your life of exile and
uncertainty for that of a princess, who shall hereafter reign with him
whom she most loves, if we may place confidence in the predictions of
the gods. ' I then put her in mind of the oracle of Apollo, and gave
her my explanation of it. She had heard of it before, for it was much
talked of, and its meaning inquired into. She paused at this: at last
she said, 'Since such, you think, is the will of the gods, and I am
inclined to believe your interpretation, what, Father, will be best
for me to do? '--'You must pretend,' said I, 'that you are willing to
marry Alcamenes. '--'But this is odious to me,' she replied; 'it is
disgraceful to give even a feigned promise to any but Theagenes: but
since I have given myself up to your direction, and that of the gods,
how far will this dissimulation lead me, so that I be not entangled in
any disagreeable circumstances by it? '--'The event will show you,'
said I; 'to tell you beforehand might cause some hesitation upon your
part, whereas suddenness in action will bring with it confidence and
boldness. Only follow my advice: seem, for the present, to agree to the
marriage which Charicles has so much at heart; he will not proceed in
it without my knowledge and direction. ' She wept, yet promised to be
guided by me, and I took my leave of her.
"I had scarcely got out of the chamber when I met Charicles, with a
very downcast and sorrowful air. --'You are a strange man,' said I:
'when you ought to rejoice, sacrifice, and give thanks to the gods,
for having obtained what you so long have wished for; when Chariclea
at last, with great difficulty, and the utmost exertions of my art and
wisdom, has been brought to yield to love, and to desire marriage;
you go about sad and drooping, and are ready to shed tears. What can
be the matter with you? '--'I have but too much reason for sorrow,' he
replied, 'when the delight of my eyes, before she can be married, as
you say she is inclined to be, is threatened to be hurried away from
me, if any faith is to be given to dreams, which on several nights,
and particularly on the last, have tormented me. Methought I saw an
eagle take his flight from the hand of Apollo, and stooping down
suddenly upon me, snatch my daughter, alas! out of my very bosom, and
bear her away to some extreme corner of the earth, full of dusky and
shadowy forms. I could not discover what became of them; for soon
the vast intermediate interval hid them from my sight. ' I instantly
conjectured what this dream portended; but I endeavoured to comfort
him, and to prevent his having the smallest suspicion of the real
truth. 'Considering that you are a priest,' I said, 'and are dedicated
to that deity who is most famous for oracles, you seem to me not to
have much skill in the interpretation of dreams. This darkly signifies
the approaching marriage of your child, and the eagle represents her
intended spouse: and when Apollo intimates this to you, and that it
is from his hands that your daughter is to receive a husband, you
seem displeased, and wrest the dream to an ominous interpretation.
Wherefore, my dear Charicles, let us be cautious what we say; let us
accommodate ourselves to the will of the gods, and use our utmost
endeavours to persuade the maiden.
