Oroonoko: or The History of the Royal Slave

I do not pretend, in giving you the history of this royal slave, to entertain my reader with adventures of a feign'd hero, whose life and fortunes fancy may manage at the poet's pleasure; nor in relating the truth, design to adorn it with any accidents, but such as arrived in earnest to him: And it shall come simply into the world, recommended by its own proper merits, and natural intrigues; there being enough of reality to support it, and to render it diverting, without the addition of invention.

I was myself an eye-witness to a great part of what you will find here set down; and what I cou'd not be witness of, I receiv'd from the mouth of the chief actor in this history, the hero himself, who gave us the whole transactions of his youth: And though I shall omit, for brevity's sake, a thousand little accidents of his life, which, however pleasant to us, where history was scarce, and adventures very rare, yet might prove tedious and heavy to my reader, in a world where he finds diversions for every minute, new and strange. But we who were perfectly charm'd with the character of this great man, were curious to gather every circumstance of his life.

The scene of the last part of his adventures lies in a colony in America, called Surinam, in the West-Indies.

But before I give you the story of this gallant slave, 'tis fit I tell you the manner of bringing them to these new colonies; those they make use of there, not being natives of the place: for those we live with in perfect

amity, without daring to command 'em; but, on the contrary, caress 'em with all the brotherly and friendly affection in the world; trading with them for their fish, venison, buffalo's skins, and little rarities; as marmosets, a sort of monkey, as big as a rat or weasel, but of a marvellous and delicate shape, having face and hands like a human creature; and cousheries, a little beast in the form and fashion of a lion, as big as a kitten, but so exactly made in all parts like that noble beast, that it is it in minature. Then for little paraketoes, great parrots, muckaws, and a thousand other birds and beasts of wonderful and surprizing forms, shapes, and colours. For skins of prodigious snakes, of which there are some threescore yards in length; as is the skin of one that may be seen at his Majesty's antiquary's; where are also some rare flies, of amazing forms and colours, presented to 'em by my self; some as big as my fist, some less; and all of various excellencies, such as art cannot imitate. Then we trade for feathers, which they order into all shapes, make themselves little short habits of 'em, and glorious wreaths for their heads, necks, arms and legs, whose tinctures are unconceivable. I had a set of these presented to me, and I gave 'em to the King's Theatre, and it was the dress of the Indian Queen, infinitely admir'd by persons of quality; and was unimitable. Besides these, a thousand little knacks, and rarities in nature; and some of art, as their baskets, weapons, aprons, &c. We dealt with 'em with beads of all colours, knives, axes, pins and needles; which they us'd only as tools to drill holes with in their ears, noses and lips, where they hang a great many little things; as long beads, bits of tin, brass or silver beat thin, and any shining trinket. The beads they weave into aprons about a quarter of an ell long, and of the same breadth; working them very prettily in flowers of several colours; which apron they wear just before 'em, as Adam and Eve did the fig-leaves; the men wearing a long stripe of linen,

which they deal with us for. They thread these beads also on long cotton-threads, and make girdles to tie their aprons to, which come twenty times, or more, about the waste, and then cross, like a shoulder - belt, both ways, and round their necks, arms, and legs. This adornment, with their long black hair, and the face painted in little specks or flowers here and there, makes 'em a wonderful figure to behold. Some of the beauties, which indeed are finely shap'd, as almost all are, and who have pretty features, are charming and novel; for they have all that is called beauty, except the colour, which is a reddish yellow; or after a new oiling, which they often use to themselves, they are of the colour of a new brick, but smooth, soft and sleek. They are extreme modest and bashful, very shy, and nice of being touch'd. And though they are all thus naked, if one lives for ever among 'em, there is not to be seen an undecent action, or glance: and being continually us'd to see one another so unadorn'd, so like our first parents before the fall, it seems as if they had no wishes, there being nothing to heighten curiosity; but all you can see, you see at once, and every moment see; and where there is no novelty, there can be no curiosity. Not but I have seen a handsome young Indian, dying for love of a very beautiful young Indian maid; but all his courtship was, to fold his arms, pursue her with his eyes, and sighs were all his language: While she, as if no such lover were present, or rather as if she desired none such, carefully guarded her eyes from beholding him; and never approach'd him, but she look'd down with all the blushing modesty I have seen in the most severe and cautious of our world. And these people represented to me an absolute idea of the first state of innocence, before man knew how to sin: And 'tis most evident and plain, that simple nature is the most harmless, inoffensive and vertuous mistress. 'Tis she alone, if she were permitted, that better instructs the world, than all the inventions of man: religion wou'd here but destroy that tranquillity they possess

by ignorance; and laws wou'd but teach 'em to know offence, of which now they have no notion. They once made mourning and fasting for the death of the English governor, who had given his hand to come on such a day to 'em, and neither came nor sent; believing, when a man's word was past, nothing but death cou'd or shou'd prevent his keeping it: And when they saw he was not dead, they ask'd him what name they had for a man who promis'd a thing he did not do? The governor told them, Such a man was a lyar, which was a word of infamy to a gentleman. Then one of 'em reply'd, Governor, you are a lyar, and guilty of that infamy. They have a native justice, which knows no fraud; and they understand no vice, or cunning, but when they are taught by the white men. They have plurality of wives; which, when they grow old, serve those that succeed 'em, who are young, but with a servitude easy and respected; and unless they take slaves in war, they have no other attendants.

Those on that continent where I was, had no king; but the oldest war-captain was obey'd with great resignation.

A war-captain is a man who has led them on to battle with conduct and success; of whom I shall have occasion to speak more hereafter, and of some other of their customs and manners, as they fall in my way.

With these people, as I said, we live in perfect tranquillity, and good understanding, as it behoves us to do; they knowing all the places where to seek the best food of the country, and the means of getting it; and for very small and unvaluable trifles, supply us with that 'tis impossible for us to get: for they do not only in the woods, and over the Sevana's, in hunting, supply the parts of hounds, by swiftly scouring through those almost impassable places, and by the mere activity of their feet run down the nimblest deer, and other eatable beasts; but in the water, one wou'd think they were gods of the rivers, or fellow-citizens of the deep; so rare an art they have in swimming,

diving, and almost living in water; by which they command the less swift inhabitants of the floods. And then for shooting, what they cannot take, or reach with their hands, they do with arrows; and have so admirable an aim, that they will split almost an hair, and at any distance that an arrow can reach: they will shoot down oranges, and other fruit, and only touch the stalk with the dart's point, that they may not hurt the fruit. So that they being on all occasions very useful to us, we find it absolutely necessary to caress 'em as friends, and not to treat 'em as slaves, nor dare we do other, their numbers so far surpassing ours in that continent.

Those then whom we make use of to work in our plantations of sugar, are negroes, black slaves all together, who are transported thither in this manner.

Those who want slaves, make a bargain with a master, or a captain of a ship, and contract to pay him so much a-piece, a matter of twenty pound a head, for as many as he agrees for, and to pay for 'em when they shall be deliver'd on such a plantation: So that when there arrives a ship laden with slaves, they who have so contracted, go a-board, and receive their number by lot; and perhaps in one lot that may be for ten, there may happen to be three or four men, the rest women and children. Or be there more or less of either sex, you are obliged to be contented with your lot.

Coramantien, a country of blacks so called, was one of those places in which they found the most advantageous trading for these slaves, and thither most of our great traders in that merchandize traffick; for that nation is very warlike and brave: and having a continual campaign, being always in hostility with one neighbouring prince or other, they had the fortune to take a great many captives: for all they took in battle were sold as slaves; at least those common men who cou'd not ransom themselves. Of these slaves so taken, the general only has all the profit; and of these

generals our captains and masters of ships buy all their freights.

The king of Coramantien was himself a man of an hundred and odd years old, and had no son, tho he had many beautiful black wives: for most certainly there are beauties that can charm of that colour. In his younger years he had had many gallant men to his sons, thirteen of whom died in battle, conquering when they fell; and he had only left him for his successor, one grand-child, son to one of these dead victors, who, as soon as he could bear a bow in his hand, and a quiver at his back, was sent into the field to be train'd up by one of the oldest generals to war; where, from his natural inclination to arms, and the occasions given him, with the good conduct of the old general, he became, at the age of seventeen, one of the most expert captains, and bravest soldiers that ever saw the field of Mars: so that he was ador'd as the wonder of all that world, and the darling of the soldiers. Besides, he was adorn'd with a native beauty, so transcending all those of his gloomy race, that he struck an awe and reverence, even into those that knew not his quality; as he did into me, who beheld him with surprize and wonder, when afterwards he arrived in our world.

He had scarce arrived at his seventeenth year, when, fighting by his side, the general was kill'd with an arrow in his eye, which the Prince Oroonoko (for so was this gallant Moor call'd) very narrowly avoided; nor had he, if the general who saw the arrow shot, and perceiving it aimed at the prince, had not bow'd his head between, on purpose to receive it in his own body, rather than it should touch that of the prince, and so saved him.

'Twas then, afflicted as Oroonoko was, that he was proclaimed general in the old man's place: and then it was, at the finishing of that war, which had continu'd for two years, that the prince came to court, where he had hardly been a month together, from the

time of his fifth year to that of seventeen; and 'twas amazing to imagine where it was he learn'd so much humanity: or, to give his accomplishments a juster name, where 'twas he got that real greatness of soul, those refined notions of true honour, that absolute generosity, and that softness that was capable of the highest passions of love and gallantry, whose objects were almost continually fighting men, or those mangled or dead, who heard no sounds but those of war and groans. Some part of it we may attribute to the care of a Frenchman of wit and learning, who finding it turn to very good account to be a sort of royal tutor to this young black, and perceiving him very ready, apt, and quick of apprehension, took a great pleasure to teach him morals, language and science; and was for it extremely belov'd and valu'd by him. Another reason was, he lov'd when he came from war, to see all the English gentlemen that traded thither; and did not only learn their language, but that of the Spaniard also, with whom he traded afterwards for slaves.

I have often seen and conversed with this great man, and been a witness to many of his mighty actions; and do assure my reader, the most illustrious courts could not have produced a braver man, both for greatness of courage and mind, a judgment more solid, a wit more quick, and a conversation more sweet and diverting. He knew almost as much as if he had read much: He had heard of and admired the Romans: He had heard of the late civil wars in England, and the deplorable death of our great monarch; and wou'd discourse of it with all the sense and abhorrence of the injustice imaginable. He had an extreme good and graceful mien, and all the civility of a well-bred great man. He had nothing of barbarity in his nature, but in all points address'd himself as if his education had been in some European court.

This great and just character of Oroonoko gave me an extreme curiosity to see him, especially when I knew he spoke French and English, and that I could talk with

him. But though I had heard so much of him, I was as greatly surprized when I saw him, as if I had heard nothing of him; so beyond all report I found him. He came into the room, and addressed himself to me, and some other women, with the best grace in the world. He was pretty tall, but of a shape the most exact that can be fancy'd: The most famous statuary cou'd not form the figure of a man more admirably turn'd from head to foot. His face was not of that brown rusty black which most of that nation are, but of perfect ebony, or polished jett. His eyes were the most awful that cou'd be seen, and very piercing; the white of 'em being like snow, as were his teeth. His nose was rising and Roman, instead of African and flat. His mouth the finest shaped that could be seen; far from those great turn'd lips, which are so natural to the rest of the negroes. The whole proportion and air of his face was so nobly and exactly form'd, that bating his colour, there could be nothing in nature more beautiful, agreeable and handsome. There was no one grace wanting, that bears the standard of true beauty. His hair came down to his shoulders, by the aids of art, which was by pulling it out with a quill, and keeping it comb'd; of which he took particular care. Nor did the perfections of his mind come short of those of his person; for his discourse was admirable upon almost any subject: and whoever had heard him speak, wou'd have been convinced of their errors, that all fine wit is confined to the white men, especially to those of Christendom; and wou'd have confess'd that Oroonoko was as capable even of reigning well, and of governing as wisely, had as great a soul, as politick maxims, and was as sensible of power, as any prince civiliz'd in the most refined schools of humanity and learning, or the most illustrious courts.

This prince, such as I have describ'd him, whose soul and body were so admirably adorned, was (while yet he was in the court of his grandfather, as I said) as capable of love, as 'twas possible for a brave and

gallant man to be; and in saying that, I have named the highest degree of love: for sure great souls are most capable of that passion.

I have already said, the old general was kill'd by the shot of an arrow by the side of this prince in battle; and that Oroonoko was made general. This old dead hero had one only daughter left of his race, a beauty, that to describe her truly, one need say only, she was female to the noble male; the beautiful black Venus to our young Mars; as charming in her person as he, and of delicate vertues. I have seen a hundred white men sighing after her, and making a thousand vows at her feet, all in vain, and unsuccessful. And she was indeed too great for any but a prince of her own nation to adore.

Oroonoko coming from the wars (which were now ended) after he had made his court to his grandfather, he thought in honour he ought to make a visit to Imoinda, the daughter of his foster-father, the dead general; and to make some excuses to her, because his preservation was the occasion of her father's death; and to present her with those slaves that had been taken in this last battle, as the trophies of her father's victories. When he came, attended by all the young soldiers of any merit, he was infinitely surpriz'd at the beauty of this fair Queen of Night, whose face and person was so exceeding all he had ever beheld, that lovely modesty with which she receiv'd him, that softness in her look and sighs, upon the melancholy occasion of this honour that was done by so great a man as Oroonoko, and a prince of whom she had heard such admirable things; the awfulness wherewith she receiv'd him, and the sweetness of her words and behaviour while he stay'd, gain'd a perfect conquest over his fierce heart, and made him feel, the victor cou'd be subdu'd. So that having made his first compliments, and presented her an hundred and fifty slaves in fetters, he told her with his eyes, that he was not insensible of her charms; while Imoinda, who wish'd

for nothing more than so glorious a conquest, was pleas'd to believe, she understood that silent language of new-born love; and, from that moment, put on all her additions to beauty.

The prince return'd to court with quite another humour than before; and though he did not speak much of the fair Imoinda, he had the pleasure to hear all his followers speak of nothing but the charms of that maid, insomuch that, even in the presence of the old king, they were extolling her, and heightning, if possible, the beauties they had found in her: so that nothing else was talk'd of, no other sound was heard in every corner where there were whisperers, but Imoinda! Imoinda!

'Twill be imagin'd Oroonoko stay'd not long before he made his second visit; nor, considering his quality, not much longer before he told her, he ador'd her. I have often heard him say, that he admir'd by what strange inspiration he came to talk things so soft, and so passionate, who never knew love, nor was us'd to the conversation of women; but (to use his own words) he said, most happily, some new, and, till then, unknown power instructed his heart and tongue in the language of love, and at the same time, in favour of him, inspir'd Imoinda with a sense of his passion. She was touch'd with what he said, and return'd it all in such answers as went to his very heart, with a pleasure unknown before. Nor did he use those obligations ill, that love had done him, but turn'd all his happy moments to the best advantage; and as he knew no vice, his flame aim'd at nothing but honour, if such a distinction may be made in love; and especially in that country, where men take to themselves as many as they can maintain; and where the only crime and sin with woman, is, to turn her off, to abandon her to want, shame and misery: such ill morals are only practis'd in Christian countries, where they prefer the bare name of religion; and, without vertue or morality, think that sufficient. But Oroonoko was none of those

professors; but as he had right notions of honour, so he made her such propositions as were not only and barely such; but, contrary to the custom of his country, he made her vows, she shou'd be the only woman he wou'd possess while he liv'd; that no age or wrinkles shou'd encline him to change; for her soul wou'd be always fine, and always young; and he shou'd have an eternal idea in his mind of the charms she now bore; and shou'd look into his heart for that idea, when he cou'd find it no longer in her face.

After a thousand assurances of his lasting flame, and her eternal empire over him, she condescended to receive him for her husband; or rather, receiv'd him, as the greatest honour the gods cou'd do her.

There is a certain ceremony in these cases to be observ'd, which I forgot to ask how 'twas perform'd; but 'twas concluded on both sides, that in obedience to him, the grandfather was to be first made acquainted with the design: For they pay a most absolute resignation to the monarch, especially when he is a parent also.

On the other side, the old king, who had many wives, and many concubines, wanted not court-flatterers to insinuate into his heart a thousand tender thoughts for this young beauty; and who represented her to his fancy, as the most charming he had ever possess'd in all the long race of his numerous years. At this character, his old heart, like an extinguish'd brand, most apt to take fire, felt new sparks of love, and began to kindle; and now grown to his second childhood, long'd with impatience to behold this gay thing, with whom, alas! he could but innocently play. But how he shou'd be confirm'd she was this wonder, before he us'd his power to call her to court, (where maidens never came, unless for the king's private use) he was next to consider; and while he was so doing, he had intelligence brought him, that Imoinda was most certainly mistress to the Prince Oroonoko. This gave him some chagreen: however, it gave him also an opportunity, one day, when the prince was a hunting, to wait

on a man of quality, as his slave and attendant, who should go and make a present to Imoinda, as from the prince; he should then, unknown, see this fair maid, and have an opportunity to hear what message she wou'd return the prince for his present, and from thence gather the state of her heart, and degree of her inclination. This was put in execution, and the old monarch saw, and burn'd: He found her all he had heard, and would not delay his happiness, but found he should have some obstacle to overcome her heart; for she express'd her sense of the present the prince had sent her, in terms so sweet, so soft and pretty, with an air of love and joy that cou'd not be dissembled, insomuch that 'twas past doubt whether she lov'd Oroonoko entirely. This gave the old king some affliction; but he salv'd it with this, that the obedience the people pay their king, was not at all inferiour to what they paid their gods; and what love wou'd not oblige Imoinda to do, duty wou'd compel her to.

He was therefore no sooner got to his apartment, but he sent the royal veil to Imoinda; that is, the ceremony of invitation: He sends the lady he has a mind to honour with his bed, a veil, with which she is cover'd, and secur'd for the king's use; and 'tis death to disobey; besides, held a most impious disobedience.

'Tis not to be imagin'd the surprize and grief that seiz'd the lovely maid at this news and sight. However, as delays in these cases are dangerous, and pleading worse than treason; trembling, and almost fainting, she was oblig'd to suffer her self to be cover'd, and led away.

They brought her thus to court; and the king, who had caus'd a very rich bath to be prepar'd, was led into it, where he sate under a canopy, in state, to receive this long'd-for virgin; whom he having commanded shou'd be brought to him, they (after disrobing her) led her to the bath, and making fast the doors, left her to descend. The king, without more courtship, bad her throw off her mantle, and come to his

arms. But Imoinda, all in tears, threw her self on the marble, on the brink of the bath, and besought him to hear her. She told him, as she was a maid, how proud of the divine glory she should have been, of having it in her power to oblige her king; but as by the laws he could not, and from his royal goodness would not take from any man his wedded wife; so she believ'd she shou'd be the occasion of making him commit a great sin, if she did not reveal her state and condition; and tell him, she was another's, and cou'd not be so happy to be his.

The king, enrag'd at this delay, hastily demanded the name of the bold man, that had married a woman of her degree, without his consent. Imoinda, seeing his eyes fierce, and his hands tremble, (whether with age or anger, I know not, but she fancy'd the last) almost repented she had said so much, for now she fear'd the storm wou'd fall on the prince; she therefore said a thousand things to appease the raging of his flame, and to prepare him to hear who it was with calmness: but before she spoke, he imagin'd who she meant, but wou'd not seem to do so, but commanded her to lay aside her mantle, and suffer her self to receive his caresses, or, by his gods he swore, that happy man whom she was going to name shou'd die, though it were even Oroonoko himself. Therefore (said he) deny this marriage, and swear thy self a maid. That (reply'd Imoinda) by all our powers I do; for I am not yet known to my husband. 'Tis enough (said the King;) 'tis enough both to satisfy my conscience, and my heart. And rising from his seat, he went and led her into the bath; it being in vain for her to resist.

In this time, the prince, who was return'd from hunting, went to visit his Imoinda, but found her gone; and not only so, but heard she had receiv'd the royal veil. This rais'd him to a storm; and in his madness, they had much ado to save him from laying violent hands on himself. Force first prevail'd, and then reason: They urg'd all to him, that might oppose his

rage; but nothing weigh'd so greatly with him as the king's old age, uncapable of injuring him with Imoinda. He wou'd give way to that hope, because it pleas'd him most, and flatter'd best his heart. Yet this serv'd not altogether to make him cease his different passions, which sometimes rag'd within him, and softned into showers. 'Twas not enough to appease him, to tell him, his grandfather was old, and cou'd not that way injure him, while he retain'd that awful duty which the young men are us'd there to pay to their grave relations. He cou'd not be convinc'd he had no cause to sigh and mourn for the loss of a mistress, he cou'd not with all his strength and courage retrieve. And he wou'd often cry, Oh, my friends! were she in wall'd cities, or confin'd from me in fortifications of the greatest strength; did inchantments or monsters detain her from me; I wou'd venture through any hazard to free her: But here, in the arms of a feeble old man, my youth, my violent love, my trade in arms, and all my vast desire of glory, avail me nothing. Imoinda is as irrecoverably lost to me, as if she were snatch'd by the cold arms of death: Oh! she is never to be retriev'd. If I wou'd wait tedious years, till fate shou'd bow the old king to his grave, even that wou'd not leave me Imoinda free; but still that custom that makes it so vile a crime for a son to marry his father's wives or mistresses, wou'd hinder my happiness; unless I wou'd either ignobly set an ill precedent to my successors, or abandon my country, and fly with her to some unknown world who never heard our story.

But it was objected to him, That his case was not the same; for Imoinda being his lawful wife by solemn contract, 'twas he was the injur'd man, and might, if he so pleas'd, take Imoinda back, the breach of the law being on his grandfather's side; and that if he cou'd circumvent him, and redeem her from the otan, which is the Palace of the King's Women, a sort of seraglio, it was both just and lawful for him so to do.

This reasoning had some force upon him, and he

shou'd have been entirely comforted, but for the thought that she was possess'd by his grandfather. However, he lov'd so well, that he was resolv'd to believe what most favour'd his hope, and to endeavour to learn from Imoinda's own mouth, what only she cou'd satisfy him in, whether she was robb'd of that blessing which was only due to his faith and love. But as it was very hard to get a sight of the women, (for no men ever enter'd into the otan, but when the king went to entertain himself with some one of his wives or mistresses; and 'twas death, at any other time, for any other to go in) so he knew not how to contrive to get a sight of her.

While Oroonoko felt all the agonies of love, and suffer'd under a torment the most painful in the world, the old king was not exempted from his share of affliction. He was troubled, for having been forc'd, by an irresistible passion, to rob his son of a treasure, he knew, cou'd not but be extremely dear to him; since she was the most beautiful that ever had been seen, and had besides, all the sweetness and innocence of youth and modesty, with a charm of wit surpassing all. He found, that however she was forc'd to expose her lovely person to his wither'd arms, she cou'd only sigh and weep there, and think of Oroonoko; and oftentimes cou'd not forbear speaking of him, tho her life were, by custom, forfeited by owning her passion. But she spoke not of a lover only, but of a prince dear to him to whom she spoke; and of the praises of a man, who, till now, fill'd the old man's soul with joy at every recital of his bravery, or even his name. And 'twas this dotage on our young hero, that gave Imoinda a thousand privileges to speak of him, without offending; and this condescension in the old king, that made her take the satisfaction of speaking of him so very often.

Besides, he many times enquir'd how the prince bore himself: And those of whom he ask'd, being entirely slaves to the merits and vertues of the prince, still answer'd what they thought conduc'd best to his

service; which was, to make the old king fancy that the prince had no more interest in Imoinda, and had resign'd her willingly to the pleasure of the king; that he diverted himself with his mathematicians, his fortifications, his officers and his hunting.

This pleas'd the old lover, who fail'd not to report these things again to Imoinda, that she might, by the example of her young lover, withdraw her heart, and rest better contented in his arms. But, however she was forc'd to receive this unwelcome news, in all appearance, with unconcern and content; her heart was bursting within, and she was only happy when she cou'd get alone, to vent her griefs and moans with sighs and tears.

What reports of the prince's conduct were made to the king, he thought good to justify as far as possibly he cou'd by his actions; and when he appeared in the presence of the king, he shew'd a face not at all betraying his heart: so that in a little time, the old man, being entirely convinc'd that he was no longer a lover of Imoinda, he carry'd him with him, in his train, to the otan, often to banquet with his mistresses. But as soon as he enter'd, one day, into the apartment of Imoinda, with the king, at the first glance from her eyes, notwithstanding all his determined resolution, he was ready to sink in the place where he stood; and had certainly done so, but for the support of Aboan, a young man who was next to him; which, with his change of countenance, had betray'd him, had the king chanc'd to look that way. And I have observ'd, 'tis a very great error in those who laugh when one says, A negro can change colour: for I have seen 'em as frequently blush, and look pale, and that as visibly as ever I saw in the most beautiful white. And 'tis certain, that both these changes were evident, this day, in both these lovers. And Imoinda, who saw with some joy the change in the prince's face, and found it in her own, strove to divert the king from beholding either, by a forc'd caress, with which she met him;

which was a new wound in the heart of the poor dying prince. But as soon as the king was busy'd in looking on some fine thing of Imoinda's making, she had time to tell the prince, with her angry, but love - darting eyes, that she resented his coldness, and bemoan'd her own miserable captivity. Nor were his eyes silent, but answer'd hers again, as much as eyes cou'd do, instructed by the most tender and most passionate heart that ever lov'd: And they spoke so well, and so effectually, as Imoinda no longer doubted but she was the only delight and darling of that soul she found pleading in 'em its right of love, which none was more willing to resign than she. And 'twas this powerful language alone that in an instant convey'd all the thoughts of their souls to each other; that they both found there wanted but opportunity to make them both entirely happy. But when he saw another door open'd by Onahal (a former old wife of the king's, who now had charge of Imoinda,) and saw the prospect of a bed of state made ready, with sweets and flowers for the dalliance of the king, who immediately led the trembling victim from his sight, into that prepar'd repose; what rage! what wild frenzies seiz'd his heart! which forcing to keep within bounds, and to suffer without noise, it became the more insupportable, and rent his soul with ten thousand pains. He was forced to retire to vent his groans, where he fell down on a carpet, and lay struggling a long time, and only breathing now and then - Oh Imoinda! When Onahal had finished her necessary affair within, shutting the door, she came forth, to wait till the king called; and hearing some one sighing in the other room, she past on, and found the prince in that deplorable condition, which she thought needed her aid. She gave him cordials, but all in vain; till finding the nature of his disease, by his sighs, and naming Imoinda, she told him he had not so much cause as he imagined to afflict himself: for if he knew the king so well as she did, he wou'd not lose a moment in jealousy; and that she was confident

that Imoinda bore, at this minute, part in his affliction. Aboan was of the same opinion, and both together persuaded him to re-assume his courage; and all sitting down on the carpet, the prince said so many obliging things to Onahal, that he half-persuaded her to be of his party: and she promised him, she would thus far comply with his just desires, that she would let Imoinda know how faithful he was, what he suffer'd, and what he said.

This discourse lasted till the king called, which gave Oroonoko a certain satisfaction; and with the hope Onahal had made him conceive, he assumed a look as gay as 'twas possible a man in his circumstances could do: and presently after, he was call'd in with the rest who waited without. The king commanded musick to be brought, and several of his young wives and mistresses came all together by his command, to dance before him; where Imoinda perform'd her part with an air and grace so surpassing all the rest, as her beauty was above 'em, and received the present ordained as a prize. The prince was every moment more charmed with the new beauties and graces he beheld in this fair-one; and while he gazed, and she danc'd, Onahal was retired to a window with Aboan.

This Onahal, as I said, was one of the cast-mistresses of the old king; and 'twas these (now past their beauty) that were made guardians or governantees to the new and the young ones, and whose business it was to teach them all those wanton arts of love, with which they prevail'd and charmed heretofore in their turn; and who now treated the triumphing happy ones with all the severity as to liberty and freedom, that was possible, in revenge of their honours they rob them of; envying them those satisfactions, those gallantries and presents, that were once made to themselves, while youth and beauty lasted, and which they now saw pass, as it were regardless by, and paid only to the bloomings. And certainly, nothing is more afflicting to a decay'd beauty, than to behold in it self declining

charms, that were once ador'd; and to find those caresses paid to new beauties, to which once she laid claim; to hear them whisper, as she passes by, that once was a delicate woman. Those abandon'd ladies therefore endeavour to revenge all the despights and decays of time, on these flourishing happy ones. And 'twas this severity that gave Oroonoko a thousand fears he should never prevail with Onahal to see Imoinda. But, as I said, she was now retir'd to a window with Aboan.

This young man was not only one of the best quality, but a man extremely well made, and beautiful; and coming often to attend the king to the otan, he had subdu'd the heart of the antiquated Onahal, which had not forgot how pleasant it was to be in love. And though she had some decays in her face, she had none in her sense and wit; she was there agreeable still, even to Aboan's youth: so that he took pleasure in entertaining her with discourses of love. He knew also, that to make his court to these she - favourites, was the way to be great; these being the persons that do all affairs and business at court. He had also observed that she had given him glances more tender and inviting than she had done to others of his quality. And now, when he saw that her favour cou'd so absolutely oblige the prince, he fail'd not to sigh in her ear, and to look with eyes all soft upon her, and gave her hope that she had made some impressions on his heart. He found her pleas'd at this, and making a thousand advances to him: but the ceremony ending, and the king departing, broke up the company for that day, and his conversation.

Aboan fail'd not that night to tell the prince of his success, and how advantageous the service of Onahal might be to his amour with Imoinda. The prince was over-joy'd with this good news, and besought him if it were possible to caress her so, as to engage her entirely, which he could not fail to do, if he comply'd with her desires: For then (said the prince) her life lying at your mercy, she must grant you the request you make in my

behalf. Aboan understood him, and assur'd him he would make love so effectually, that he would defy the most expert mistress of the art, to find out whether he dissembled it, or had it really. And 'twas with impatience they waited the next opportunity of going to the otan.

The wars came on, the time of taking the field approached; and 'twas impossible for the prince to delay his going at the head of his army to encounter the enemy; so that every day seem'd a tedious year, till he saw his Imoinda: for he believed he cou'd not live, if he were forced away without being so happy. 'Twas with impatience therefore that he expected the next visit the king wou'd make; and according to his wish it was not long.

The parley of the eyes of these two lovers had not pass'd so secretly, but an old jealous lover could spy it; or rather, he wanted not flatterers who told him they observ'd it: so that the prince was hasten'd to the camp, and this was the last visit he found he should make to the otan; he therefore urged Aboan to make the best of this last effort, and to explain himself so to Onahal, that she deferring her enjoyment of her young lover no longer, might make way for the prince to speak to Imoinda.

The whole affair being agreed on between the prince and Aboan, they attended the king, as the custom was, to the Otan; where, while the whole company was taken up in beholding the dancing, and antick postures the women-royal made, to divert the king, Onahal singled out Aboan, whom she found most pliable to her wish. When she had him where she believ'd she cou'd not be heard, she sigh'd to him, and softly cry'd, Ah, Aboan! when will you be sensible of my passion? I confess it with my mouth, because I would not give my eyes the lye; and you have but too much already perceived they have confess'd my flame: nor would I have you believe, that because I am the abandoned mistress of a king, I esteem my self altogether divested of charms: No, Aboan;

I have still a rest of beauty enough engaging, and have learn'd to please too well, not to be desirable. I can have lovers still, but will have none but Aboan. Madam, (reply'd the half-feigning youth) you have already, by my eyes, found you can still conquer; and I believe 'tis in pity of me you condescend to this kind confession. But, madam, words are used to be so small a part of our country-courtship, that 'tis rare one can get so happy an opportunity as to tell one's heart; and those few minutes we have, are forced to be snatch'd for more certain proofs of love than speaking and sighing; and such I languish for.

He spoke this with such a tone, that she hoped it true, and cou'd not forbear believing it; and being wholly transported with joy for having subdued the finest of all the king's subjects to her desires, she took from her ears two large pearls, and commanded him to wear 'em in his. He would have refused 'em, crying, Madam, these are not the proofs of your love that I expect; 'tis opportunity, 'tis a lone-hour only, that can make me happy. But forcing the pearls into his hand, she whisper'd softly to him; Oh! do not fear a woman's invention, when love sets her a thinking. And pressing his hand, she cry'd, This night you shall be happy: Come to the gate of the orange-grove, behind the otan, and I will be ready about mid-night to receive you. 'Twas thus agreed, and she left him, that no notice might be taken of their speaking together.

The ladies were still dancing, and the king laid on a carpet with a great deal of pleasure was beholding them, especially Imoinda, who that day appear'd more lovely than ever, being enliven'd with the good tidings Onahal had brought her, of the constant passion the prince had for her. The prince was laid on another carpet at the other end of the room, with his eyes fixed on the object of his soul; and as she turned or moved, so did they: and she alone gave his eyes and soul their motions. Nor did Imoinda employ her eyes to any other use, than in beholding with infinite pleasure

the joy she produced in those of the prince. But while she was more regarding him, than the steps she took, she chanced to fall; and so near him, as that leaping with extreme force from the carpet, he caught her in his arms as she fell: and 'twas visible to the whole presence, the joy wherewith he received her. He clasped her close to his bosom, and quite forgot that reverence that was due to the mistress of a king, and that punishment that is the reward of a boldness of this nature. And had not the presence of mind of Imoinda (fonder of his safety, than her own) befriended him, in making her spring from his arms, and fall into her dance again, he had at that instant met his death; for the old king, jealous to the last degree, rose up in rage, broke all the diversion, and led Imoinda to her apartment, and sent out word to the prince, to go immediately to the camp; and that if he were found another night in court, he shou'd suffer the death ordained for disobedient offenders.

You may imagine how welcome this news was to Oroonoko, whose unseasonable transport and caress of Imoinda was blamed by all men that loved him: and now he perceived his fault, yet cry'd, That for such another moment he would be content to die.

All the otan was in disorder about this accident; and Onahal was particularly concern'd, because on the prince's stay depended her happiness; for she cou'd no longer expect that of Aboan: So that e'er they departed, they contrived it so, that the prince and he should both come that night to the grove of the otan, which was all of oranges and citrons, and that there they wou'd wait her orders.

They parted thus with grief enough till night, leaving the king in possession of the lovely maid. But nothing could appease the jealousy of the old lover; he wou'd not be imposed on, but would have it, that Imoinda made a false step on purpose to fall into Oroonoko's bosom, and that all things looked like a design on both sides; and 'twas in vain she protested her innocence:

He was old and obstinate, and left her more than half assur'd that his fear was true.

The king going to his apartment, sent to know where the prince was, and if he intended to obey his command. The messenger return'd, and told him, he found the prince pensive, and altogether unprepar'd for the campaign; that he lay negligently on the ground, and answer'd very little. This confirmed the jealousy of the king, and he commanded that they should very narrowly and privately watch his motions; and that he should not stir from his apartment, but one spy or other shou'd be employ'd to watch him: So that the hour approaching, wherein he was to go to the citron-grove; and taking only Aboan along with him, he leaves his apartment, and was watched to the very gate of the Otan; where he was seen to enter, and where they left him, to carry back the tidings to the king.

Oroonoko and Aboan were no sooner enter'd, but Onahal led the prince to the apartment of Imoinda; who, not knowing any thing of her happiness, was laid in bed. But Onahal only left him in her chamber, to make the best of his opportunity, and took her dear Aboan to her own; where he shew'd the height of complaisance for his prince, when, to give him an opportunity, he suffer'd himself to be caress'd in bed by Onahal.

The prince softly waken'd Imoinda, who was not a little surpriz'd with joy to find him there; and yet she trembled with a thousand fears. I believe he omitted saying nothing to this young maid, that might persuade her to suffer him to seize his own, and take the rights of love. And I believe she was not long resisting those arms where she so long'd to be; and having opportunity, night, and silence, youth, love and desire, he soon prevail'd, and ravished in a moment what his old grandfather had been endeavouring for so many months.

'Tis not to be imagined the satisfaction of these two young lovers; nor the vows she made him, that she

remained a spotless maid till that night, and that what she did with his grandfather had robb'd him of no part of her virgin-honour; the gods, in mercy and justice, having reserved that for her plighted lord, to whom of right it belonged. And 'tis impossible to express the transports he suffer'd, while he listen'd to a discourse so charming from her loved lips; and clasped that body in his arms, for whom he had so long languished: and nothing now afflicted him, but his sudden departure from her; for he told her the necessity, and his commands, but should depart satisfy'd in this, That since the old king had hitherto not been able to deprive him of those enjoyments which only belonged to him, he believed for the future he would be less able to injure him: so that, abating the scandal of the veil, which was no otherwise so, than that she was wife to another, he believed her safe, even in the arms of the king, and innocent; yet would he have ventur'd at the conquest of the world, and have given it all to have had her avoided that honour of receiving the royal veil. 'Twas thus, between a thousand caresses, that both bemoan'd the hard fate of youth and beauty, so liable to that cruel promotion: 'twas a glory that could well have been spared here, tho desired and aim'd at by all the young females of that kingdom.

But while they were thus fondly employ'd, forgetting how time ran on, and that the dawn must conduct him far away from his only happiness, they heard a great noise in the Otan, and unusual voices of men; at which the prince, starting from the arms of the frighted Imoinda, ran to a little battle-ax he used to wear by his side; and having not so much leisure as to put on his habit, he opposed himself against some who were already opening the door: which they did with so much violence, that Oroonoko was not able to defend it; but was forced to cry out with a commanding voice, Whoever ye are that have the boldness to attempt to approach this apartment thus rudely; know, that I, the Prince Oroonoko, will revenge it with the certain death of him

that first enters: Therefore, stand back, and know, this place is sacred to love and me this night; to-morrow 'tis the king's.

This he spoke with a voice so resolv'd and assur'd, that they soon retired from the door; but cry'd, 'Tis by the king's command we are come; and being satisfy'd by thy voice, O prince, as much as if we had enter'd, we can report to the king the truth of all his fears, and leave thee to provide for thy own safety, as thou art advis'd by thy friends.

At these words they departed, and left the prince to take a short and sad leave of his Imoinda; who, trusting in the strength of her charms, believed she should appease the fury of a jealous king, by saying, she was surprized, and that it was by force of arms he got into her apartment. All her concern now was for his life, and therefore she hasten'd him to the camp, and with much ado prevail'd on him to go. Nor was it she alone that prevailed; Aboan and Onahal both pleaded, and both assured him of a lye that should be well enough contrived to secure Imoinda. So that at last, with a heart sad as death, dying eyes, and sighing soul, Oroonoko departed, and took his way to the camp.

It was not long after, the king in person came to the otan; where beholding Imoinda, with rage in his eyes, he upbraided her wickedness, and perfidy; and threatning her royal lover, she fell on her face at his feet, bedewing the floor with her tears, and imploring his pardon for a fault which she had not with her will committed; as Onahal, who was also prostrate with her, could testify: That, unknown to her, he had broke into her apartment, and ravished her. She spoke this much against her conscience; but to save her own life, 'twas absolutely necessary she should feign this falsity. She knew it could not injure the prince, he being fled to an army that would stand by him, against any injuries that should assault him. However this last thought of Imoinda's being ravished, changed the

measures of his revenge; and whereas before he designed to be himself her executioner, he now resolved she should not die. But as it is the greatest crime in nature amongst 'em, to touch a woman after having been possess'd by a son, a father, or a brother, so now he looked on Imoinda as a polluted thing, wholly unfit for his embrace; nor wou'd he resign her to his grandson, because she had received the royal veil: He therefore removes her from the otan, with Onahal; whom he put into safe hands, with order they should be both sold off as slaves to another country, either Christian or heathen, 'twas no matter where.

This cruel sentence, worse than death, they implor'd might be reversed; but their prayers were vain, and it was put in execution accordingly, and that with so much secrecy, that none, either without or within the otan, knew any thing of their absence, or their destiny.

The old king nevertheless executed this with a great deal of reluctancy; but he believed he had made a very great conquest over himself, when he had once resolved, and had perform'd what he resolv'd. He believed now, that his love had been unjust; and that he cou'd not expect the gods, or Captain of the Clouds (as they call the unknown power) wou'd suffer a better consequence from so ill a cause. He now begins to hold Oroonoko excused; and to say, he had reason for what he did: And now every body cou'd assure the king how passionately Imoinda was beloved by the prince; even those confess'd it now, who said the contrary before his flame was not abated. So that the king being old, and not able to defend himself in war, and having no sons of all his race remaining alive, but only this, to maintain him on his throne; and looking on this as a man disobliged, first by the rape of his mistress, or rather wife, and now by depriving him wholly of her, he fear'd, might make him desperate, and do some cruel thing, either to himself or his old grandfather the offender, he began to repent him extremely of the contempt he had, in his rage, put on Imoinda. Besides

he consider'd he ought in honour to have killed her for this offence, if it had been one. He ought to have had so much value and consideration for a maid of her quality, as to have nobly put her to death, and not to have sold her like a common slave; the greatest revenge, and the most disgraceful of any, and to which they a thousand times prefer death, and implore it; as Imoinda did, but cou'd not obtain that honour. Seeing therefore it was certain that Oroonoko would highly resent this affront, he thought good to make some excuse for his rashness to him; and to that end, he sent a messenger to the camp, with orders to treat with him about the matter, to gain his pardon, and to endeavour to mitigate his grief; but that by no means he shou'd tell him she was sold, but secretly put to death: for he knew he should never obtain his pardon for the other.

When the messenger came, he found the prince upon the point of engaging with the enemy; but as soon as he heard of the arrival of the messenger, he commanded him to his tent, where he embraced him, and received him with joy: which was soon abated by the down-cast looks of the messenger, who was instantly demanded the cause by Oroonoko; who, impatient of delay, ask'd a thousand questions in a breath, and all concerning Imoinda. But there needed little return; for he cou'd almost answer himself of all he demanded from his sighs and eyes. At last the messenger casting himself at the prince's feet, and kissing them with all the submission of a man that had something to implore which he dreaded to utter, he besought him to hear with calmness what he had to deliver to him, and to call up all his noble and heroick courage, to encounter with his words, and defend himself against the ungrateful things he must relate. Oroonoko reply'd, with a deep sigh, and a languishing voice, - I am armed against their worst efforts - For I know they will tell me, Imoinda is no more - and after that, you may spare the rest. Then, commanding him to rise, he laid himself on a carpet, under a rich pavilion, and remained a good

while silent, and was hardly heard to sigh. When he was come a little to himself, the messenger asked him leave to deliver that part of his embassy which the prince had not yet divin'd: And the prince cry'd, I permit thee - Then he told him the affliction the old king was in, for the rashness he had committed in his cruelty to Imoinda; and how he deign'd to ask pardon for his offence, and to implore the prince would not suffer that loss to touch his heart too sensibly, which now all the gods cou'd not restore him, but might recompense him in glory, which he begged he would pursue; and that death, that common revenger of all injuries, would soon even the account between him and a feeble old man.

Oroonoko bad him return his duty to his lord and master; and to assure him, there was no account of revenge to be adjusted between them: if there were, 'twas he was the aggressor, and that death would be just, and, maugre his age, wou'd see him righted; and he was contented to leave his share of glory to youths more fortunate and worthy of that favour from the gods: That henceforth he would never lift a weapon, or draw a bow, but abandon the small remains of his life to sighs and tears, and the continual thoughts of what his lord and grandfather had thought good to send out of the world, with all that youth, that innocence and beauty.

After having spoken this, whatever his greatest officers and men of the best rank cou'd do, they could not raise him from the carpet, or persuade him to action, and resolutions of life; but commanding all to retire, he shut himself into his pavilion all that day, while the enemy was ready to engage: and wondring at the delay, the whole body of the chief of the army then address'd themselves to him, and to whom they had much ado to get admittance. They fell on their faces at the foot of his carpet, where they lay, and besought him with earnest prayers and tears, to lead them forth to battle, and not let the enemy take

advantages of them; and implored him to have regard to his glory, and to the world, that depended on his courage and conduct. But he made no other reply to all their supplications, but this, That he had now no more business for glory; and for the world, it was a trifle not worth his care: Go (continued he, sighing) and divide it amongst you, and reap with joy what you so vainly prize, and leave me to my more welcome destiny.

They then demanded what they should do, and whom he would constitute in his room, that the confusion of ambitious youth and power might not ruin their order, and make them a prey to the enemy. He reply'd, he would not give himself the trouble - but wished 'em to chuse the bravest man amongst 'em, let his quality or birth be what it wou'd: For, oh my friends! (said he) it is not titles make men brave or good; or birth that bestows courage and generosity, or makes the owner happy. Believe this, when you behold Oroonoko the most wretched, and abandoned by fortune, of all the creation of the gods. So turning himself about, he wou'd make no more reply to all they could urge or implore.

The army beholding their officers return unsuccessful, with sad faces and ominous looks, that presaged no good luck, suffer'd a thousand fears to take possession of their hearts, and the enemy to come even upon them, before they would provide for their safety, by any defence: and though they were assured by some, who had a mind to animate them, that they should be immediately headed by the prince, and that in the mean time Aboan had orders to command as general; yet they were so dismay'd for want of that great example of bravery, that they could make but a very feeble resistance; and at last, downright fled before the enemy, who pursued 'em to the very tents, killing 'em. Nor could all Aboan's courage, which that day gained him immortal glory, shame 'em into a manly defence of themselves. The guards that were left behind about the prince's tent, seeing the soldiers flee before the enemy, and scatter themselves all over the plain, in

great disorder, made such outcries as rouz'd the prince from his amorous slumber, in which he had remain'd bury'd for two days, without permitting any sustenance to approach him. But, in spight of all his resolutions, he had not the constancy of grief to that degree, as to make him insensible of the danger of his army; and in that instant he leaped from his couch, and cry'd - Come, if we must die, let us meet death the noblest way; and 'twill be more like Oroonoko to encounter him at an army's head, opposing the torrent of a conquering foe, than lazily on a couch, to wait his lingring pleasure, and die every moment by a thousand racking thoughts; or be tamely taken by an enemy, and led a whining love-sick slave to adorn the triumphs of Jamoan, that young victor, who already is enter'd beyond the limits I have prescrib'd him.

While he was speaking, he suffer'd his people to dress him for the field; and sallying out of his pavilion, with more life and vigour in his countenance than ever he shew'd, he appear'd like some divine power descended to save his country from destruction: and his people had purposely put him on all things that might make him shine with most splendor, to strike a reverend awe into the beholders. He flew into the thickest of those that were pursuing his men; and being animated with despair, he fought as if he came on purpose to die, and did such things as will not be believed that human strength could perform; and such as soon inspir'd all the rest with new courage, and new order. And now it was that they began to fight indeed; and so, as if they would not be outdone even by their ador'd hero; who turning the tide of the victory, changing absolutely the fate of the day, gain'd an entire conquest: and Oroonoko having the good fortune to single out Jamoan, he took him prisoner with his own hand, having wounded him almost to death.

This Jamoan afterwards became very dear to him being a man very gallant, and of excellent graces, and fine parts; so that he never put him amongst the rank

of captives, as they used to do, without distinction, for the common sale, or market, but kept him in his own court, where he retain'd nothing of the prisoner but the name, and returned no more into his own country; so great an affection he took for Oroonoko, and by a thousand tales and adventures of love and gallantry, flatter'd his disease of melancholy and languishment: which I have often heard him say, had certainly kill'd him, but for the conversation of this prince and Aboan, and the French governour he had from his childhood, of whom I have spoken before, and who was a man of admirable wit, great ingenuity and learning; all which he had infused into his young pupil. This Frenchman was banished out of his own country, for some heretical notions he held: and tho he was a man of very little religion, he had admirable morals, and a brave soul.

After the total defeat of Jamoan's army, which all fled, or were left dead upon the place, they spent some time in the camp; Oroonoko chusing rather to remain awhile there in his tents, than to enter into a palace, or live in a court where he had so lately suffer'd so great a loss. The officers therefore, who saw and knew his cause of discontent, invented all sorts of diversions and sports to entertain their prince: so that what with those amusements abroad, and others at home, that is, within their tents, with the persuasions, arguments, and care of his friends and servants that he more peculiarly priz'd, he wore off in time a great part of that chagreen, and torture of despair, which the first effects of Imoinda's death had given him; insomuch as having received a thousand kind embassies from the king, and invitation to return to court, he obey'd, tho with no little reluctancy: and when he did so, there was a visible change in him, and for a long time he was much more melancholy than before. But time lessens all extremes, and reduces 'em to mediums, and unconcern: but no motives of beauties, tho all endeavour'd it, cou'd engage him in any sort of amour, though he

had all the invitations to it, both from his own youth, and others ambitions and designs.

Oroonoko was no sooner return'd from this last conquest, and receiv'd at court with all the joy and magnificence that cou'd be expressed to a young victor, who was not only returned triumphant, but belov'd like a deity, than there arriv'd in the port an English ship.

The master of it had often before been in these countries, and was very well known to Oroonoko, with whom he had traffick'd for slaves, and had us'd to do the same with his predecessors.

This commander was a man of a finer sort of address and conversation, better bred, and more engaging, than most of that sort of men are; so that he seem'd rather never to have been bred out of a court, than almost all his life at sea. This captain therefore was always better receiv'd at court, than most of the traders to those countries were; and especially by Oroonoko, who was more civiliz'd, according to the European mode, than any other had been, and took more delight in the white nations; and, above all, men of parts and wit. To this captain he sold abundance of his slaves; and for the favour and esteem he had for him, made him many presents, and oblig'd him to stay at court as long as possibly he cou'd. Which the captain seem'd to take as a very great honour done him, entertaining the prince every day with globes and maps, and mathematical discourses and instruments; eating, drinking, hunting, and living with him with so much familiarity, that it was not to be doubted but he had gain'd very greatly upon the heart of this gallant young man. And the captain, in return of all these mighty favours, besought the prince to honour his vessel with his presence, some day or other at dinner, before he shou'd set sail: which he condescended to accept, and appointed his day. The captain, on his part, fail'd not to have all things in a readiness, in the most magnificent order he cou'd possibly: And the day being come, the captain, in his boat, richly adorn'd with carpets and velvet

cushions, row'd to the shore, to receive the prince; with another long - boat, where was plac'd all his musick and trumpets, with which Oroonoko was extremely delighted; who met him on the shore, attended by his French governor, Jamoan, Aboan, and about an hundred of the noblest of the youths of the court: And after they had first carry'd the prince on board, the boats fetch'd the rest off; where they found a very splendid treat, with all sorts of fine wines; and were as well entertain'd, as 'twas possible in such a place to be.

The prince having drunk hard of punch, and several sorts of wine, as did all the rest, (for great care was taken, they shou'd want nothing of that part of the entertainment) was very merry, and in great admiration of the ship, for he had never been in one before; so that he was curious of beholding every place where he decently might descend. The rest, no less curious, who were not quite overcome with drinking, rambled at their pleasure fore and aft, as their fancies guided 'em: So that the captain, who had well laid his design before, gave the word, and seiz'd on all his guests; they clapping great irons suddenly on the prince, when he was leap'd down into the hold, to view that part of the vessel; and locking him fast down, secur'd him. The same treachery was us'd to all the rest; and all in one instant, in several places of the ship, were lash'd fast in irons, and betray'd to slavery. That great design over, they set all hands to work to hoist sail; and with as treacherous as fair a wind they made from the shore with this innocent and glorious prize, who thought of nothing less than such an entertainment.

Some have commended this act, as brave in the captain; but I will spare my sense of it, and leave it to my reader to judge as he pleases. It may be easily guess'd, in what manner the prince resented this indignity, who may be best resembled to a lion taken in a toil; so he rag'd, so he struggled for liberty, but all in vain: and they had so wisely manag'd his fetters, that he could not use a hand in his defence to quit

himself of a life that wou'd by no means endure slavery; nor cou'd he move from the place where he was ty'd, to any solid part of the ship against which he might have beat his head, and have finish'd his disgrace that way. So that being deprived of all other means, he resolv'd to perish for want of food; and pleas'd at last with that thought, and toil'd and tir'd by rage and indignation, he laid himself down, and sullenly resolv'd upon dying, and refused all things that were brought him.

This did not a little vex the captain, and the more so, because he found almost all of 'em of the same humour; so that the loss of so many brave slaves, so tall and goodly to behold, would have been very considerable: He therefore order'd one to go from him (for he wou'd not be seen himself) to Oroonoko, and to assure him, he was afflicted for having rashly done so unhospitable a deed, and which could not be now remedy'd, since they were far from shore; but since he resented it in so high a nature, he assur'd him he would revoke his resolution, and set both him and his friends a-shore on the next land they should touch at; and of this the messenger gave him his oath, provided he would resolve to live. And Oroonoko, whose honour was such as he never had violated a word in his life himself, much less a solemn asseveration, believ'd in an instant what this man said; but reply'd, He expected, for a confirmation of this, to have his shameful fetters dismiss'd. This demand was carried to the captain; who return'd him answer, That the offence had been so great which he had put upon the prince, that he durst not trust him with liberty while he remain'd in the ship, for fear lest by a valour natural to him, and a revenge that would animate that valour, he might commit some outrage fatal to himself, and the king his master, to whom this vessel did belong. To this Oroonoko reply'd, He would engage his honour to behave himself in all friendly order and manner, and obey the command of the captain, as he was lord of the king's vessel, and general of those men under his command.

This was deliver'd to the still doubting captain, who could not resolve to trust a heathen, he said, upon his parole, a man that had no sense or notion of the God that he worshipp'd. Oroonoko then reply'd, He was very sorry to hear that the captain pretended to the knowledge and worship of any Gods, who had taught him no better principles, than not to credit as he would be credited. But they told him, the difference of their faith occasion'd that distrust: For the captain had protested to him upon the word of a Christian, and sworn in the name of a great God; which if he should violate, he would expect eternal torment in the world to come. Is that all the obligation he has to be just to his oath? (reply'd Oroonoko) Let him know, I swear by my honour; which to violate, would not only render me contemptible and despised by all brave and honest men, and so give my self perpetual pain, but it would be eternally offending and displeasing all mankind; harming, betraying, circumventing and outraging all men. But punishments hereafter are suffer'd by one's self; and the world takes no cognizance whether this GOD have reveng'd 'em, or not, 'tis done so secretly, and deferr'd so long: while the man of no honour suffers every moment the scorn and contempt of the honester world, and dies every day ignominiously in his fame, which is more valuable than life. I speak not this to move belief, but to shew you how you mistake, when you imagine, That he who will violate his honour, will keep his word with his Gods. So, turning from him with a disdainful smile, he refused to answer him, when he urged him to know what answer he should carry back to his captain; so that he departed without saying any more.

The captain pondering and consulting what to do, it was concluded that nothing but Oroonoko's liberty would encourage any of the rest to eat, except the Frenchman, whom the captain could not pretend to keep prisoner, but only told him, he was secured, because he might act something in favour of the prince, but that he should be freed as soon as they came to

land. So that they concluded it wholly necessary to free the prince from his irons, that he might shew himself to the rest; that they might have an eye upon him, and that they could not fear a single man.

This being resolv'd, to make the obligation the greater, the captain himself went to Oroonoko; where, after many compliments, and assurances of what he had already promis'd, he receiving from the prince his parole, and his hand, for his good behaviour, dismiss'd his irons, and brought him to his own cabin; where, after having treated and repos'd him a while, (for he had neither eat nor slept in four days before) he besought him to visit those obstinate people in chains, who refus'd all manner of sustenance; and intreated him to oblige 'em to eat, and assure 'em of their liberty on the first opportunity.

Oroonoko, who was too generous, not to give credit to his words, shew'd himself to his people, who were transported with excess of joy at the sight of their darling prince; falling at his feet, and kissing and embracing him; believing, as some divine oracle, all he assur'd 'em. But he besought 'em to bear their chains with that bravery that became those whom he had seen act so nobly in arms; and that they could not give him greater proofs of their love and friendship, since 'twas all the security the captain (his friend) could have, against the revenge, he said, they might possibly justly take, for the injuries sustain'd by him. And they all, with one accord, assur'd him, they cou'd not suffer enough, when it was for his repose and safety.

After this, they no longer refus'd to eat, but took what was brought 'em, and were pleas'd with their captivity, since by it they hoped to redeem the prince, who, all the rest of the voyage, was treated with all the respect due to his birth, tho nothing could divert his melancholy; and he wou'd often sigh for Imoinda, and think this a punishment due to his misfortune, in having left that noble maid behind him, that fatal night, in the otan, when he fled to the camp.

Possess'd with a thousand thoughts of past joys with this fair young person, and a thousand griefs for her eternal loss, he endur'd a tedious voyage, and at last arriv'd at the mouth of the river of Surinam, a colony belonging to the king of England, and where they were to deliver some part of their slaves. There the merchants and gentlemen of the country going on board, to demand those lots of slaves they had already agreed on; and, amongst those, the overseers of those plantations where I then chanc'd to be: the captain, who had given the word, order'd his men to bring up those noble slaves in fetters, whom I have spoken of; and having put 'em, some in one, and some in other lots, with women and children (which they call pickaninies) they sold 'em off, as slaves, to several merchants and gentlemen; not putting any two in one lot, because they would separate 'em far from each other; nor daring to trust 'em together, lest rage and courage should put 'em upon contriving some great action, to the ruin of the colony.

Oroonoko was first seiz'd on, and sold to our overseer, who had the first lot, with seventeen more of all sorts and sizes, but not one of quality with him. When he saw this, he found what they meant; for, as I said, he understood English pretty well; and being wholly unarm'd and defenceless, so as it was in vain to make any resistance, he only beheld the captain with a look all fierce and disdainful, upbraiding him with eyes that forc'd blushes on his guilty cheeks, he only cry'd in passing over the side of the ship; Farewel, sir, 'tis worth my sufferings, to gain so true a knowledge both of you, and of your gods by whom you swear. And desiring those that held him to forbear their pains, and telling 'em he would make no resistance, he cry'd, Come, my fellow-slaves, let us descend, and see if we can meet with more honour and honesty in the next world we shall touch upon. So he nimbly leapt into the boat, and shewing no more concern, suffer'd himself to be row'd up the river, with his seventeen companions.

The gentleman that bought him, was a young Cornish gentleman, whose name was Trefry; a man of great wit, and fine learning, and was carry'd into those parts by the Lord - Governour, to manage all his affairs. He reflecting on the last words of Oroonoko to the captain, and beholding the richness of his vest, no sooner came into the boat, but he fix'd his eyes on him; and finding something so extraordinary in his face, his shape and mein, a greatness of look, and haughtiness in his air, and finding he spoke English, had a great mind to be enquiring into his quality and fortune: which, though Oroonoko endeavour'd to hide, by only confessing he was above the rank of common slaves; Trefry soon found he was yet something greater than he confess'd; and from that moment began to conceive so vast an esteem for him, that he ever after lov'd him as his dearest brother, and shew'd him all the civilities due to so great a man.

Trefry was a very good mathematician, and a linguist; could speak French and Spanish; and in the three days they remain'd in the boat (for so long were they going from the ship to the plantation) he entertain'd Oroonoko so agreeably with his art and discourse, that he was no less pleas'd with Trefry, than he was with the prince; and he thought himself, at least, fortunate in this, that since he was a slave, as long as he would suffer himself to remain so, he had a man of so excellent wit and parts for a master. So that before they had finish'd their voyage up the river, he made no scruple of declaring to Trefry all his fortunes, and most part of what I have here related, and put himself wholly into the hands of his new friend, whom he found resenting all the injuries were done him, and was charm'd with all the greatnesses of his actions; which were recited with that modesty, and delicate sense, as wholly vanquished him, and subdu'd him to his interest. And he promised him on his word and honour he wou'd find the means to re-conduct him to his own country again; assuring him, he had a perfect abhorrence of so

dishonourable an action; and that he would sooner have dy'd, than have been the author of such a perfidy. He found the prince was very much concerned to know what became of his friends, and how they took their slavery; and Trefry promised to take care about the enquiring after their condition, and that he should have an account of 'em.

Though, as Oroonoko afterwards said, he had little reason to credit the words of a backearary; yet he knew not why, but he saw a kind of sincerity, and awful truth in the face of Trefry; he saw an honesty in his eyes, and he found him wise and witty enough to understand honour: for it was one of his maxims, A man of wit cou'd not be a knave or villain.

In their passage up the river, they put in at several houses for refreshment; and ever when they landed, numbers of people would flock to behold this man: not but their eyes were daily entertain'd with the sight of slaves, but the fame of Oroonoko was gone before him, and all people were in admiration of his beauty. Besides, he had a rich habit on, in which he was taken, so different from the rest, and which the captain cou'd not strip him of, because he was forc'd to surprize his person in the minute he sold him. When he found his habit made him liable, as he thought, to be gazed at the more, he begged Trefry to give him something more befitting a slave, which he did, and took off his robes: Nevertheless he shone thro all, and his osenbrigs (a sort of brown holland suit he had on) cou'd not conceal the graces of his looks and mein; and he had no less admirers than when he had his dazling habit on: The royal youth appear'd in spight of the slave, and people cou'd not help treating him after a different manner, without designing it. As soon as they approached him, they venerated and esteemed him; his eyes insensibly commanded respect, and his behaviour insinuated it into every soul. So that there was nothing talked of but this young and gallant slave, even by those who yet knew not that he was a prince.

I ought to tell you, that the Christians never buy any slaves but they give 'em some name of their own, their native ones being likely very barbarous, and hard to pronounce; so that Mr. Trefry gave Oroonoko that of Caesar; which name will live in that country as long as that (scarce more) glorious one of the great Roman: for 'tis most evident he wanted no part of the personal courage of that Caesar, and acted things as memorable, had they been done in some part of the world replenished with people and historians, that might have given him his due. But his misfortune was, to fall in an obscure world, that afforded only a female pen to celebrate his fame; though I doubt not but it had lived from others endeavours, if the Dutch, who immediately after his time took that country, had not killed, banished and dispersed all those that were capable of giving the world this great man's life, much better than I have done. And Mr. Trefry, who designed it, dy'd before he began it, and bemoan'd himself for not having undertook it in time.

For the future therefore I must call Oroonoko Caesar; since by that name only he was known in our western world, and by that name he was received on shore at Parham House, where he was destin'd a slave. But if the king himself (God bless him) had come ashore, there cou'd not have been greater expectation by all the whole plantation, and those neighbouring ones, than was on ours at that time; and he was received more like a governour than a slave: notwithstanding, as the custom was, they assigned him his portion of land, his house and his business up in the plantation. But as it was more for form, than any design to put him to his task, he endured no more of the slave but the name, and remain'd some days in the house, receiving all visits that were made him, without stirring towards that part of the plantation where the negroes were.

At last, he wou'd needs go view his land, his house, and the business assign'd him. But he no sooner came

to the houses of the slaves, which are like a little town by it self, the negroes all having left work, but they all came forth to behold him, and found he was that prince who had, at several times, sold most of 'em to these parts; and from a veneration they pay to great men, especially if they know 'em, and from the surprize and awe they had at the sight of him, they all cast themselves at his feet, crying out, in their language, Live, O King! Long live, O King! and kissing his feet, paid him even divine homage.

Several English gentlemen were with him, and what Mr. Trefry had told 'em was here confirm'd; of which he himself before had no other witness than Caesar himself: But he was infinitely glad to find his grandeur confirmed by the adoration of all the slaves.

Caesar troubled with their over-joy, and over-ceremony, besought 'em to rise, and to receive him as their fellow-slave; assuring them he was no better. At which they set up with one accord a most terrible and hideous mourning and condoling, which he and the English had much ado to appease: but at last they prevailed with 'em, and they prepared all their barbarous musick, and every one kill'd and dress'd something of his own stock (for every family has their land apart, on which, at their leisure-times, they breed all eatable things) and clubbing it together, made a most magnificent supper, inviting their grandee captain, their prince, to honour it with his presence; which he did, and several English with him, where they all waited on him, some playing, others dancing before him all the time, according to the manners of their several nations, and with unweary'd industry endeavouring to please and delight him.

While they sat at meat, Mr. Trefry told Caesar, that most of these young slaves were undone in love with a fine she-slave, whom they had had about six months on their land; the prince, who never heard the name of love without a sigh, nor any mention of it without the curiosity of examining further into that tale, which

of all discourses was most agreeable to him, asked, how they came to be so unhappy, as to be all undone for one fair slave? Trefry, who was naturally amorous, and lov'd to talk of love as well as any body, proceeded to tell him, they had the most charming black that ever was beheld on their plantation, about fifteen or sixteen years old, as he guess'd; that for his part he had done nothing but sigh for her ever since she came; and that all the white beauties he had seen, never charm'd him so absolutely as this fine creature had done; and that no man, of any nation, ever beheld her that did not fall in love with her; and that she had all the slaves perpetually at her feet; and the whole country resounded with the fame of Clemene, for so (said he) we have christen'd her: but she denies us all with such a noble disdain, that 'tis a miracle to see, that she who can give such eternal desires, should her self be all ice and all unconcern. She is adorn'd with the most graceful modesty that ever beautify'd youth; the softest sigher - that, if she were capable of love, one would swear she languished for some absent happy man; and so retired, as if she fear'd a rape even from the god of day, or that the breezes wou'd steal kisses from her delicate mouth. Her task of work, some sighing lover every day makes it his petition to perform for her; which she accepts blushing, and with reluctancy, for fear he will ask her a look for a recompence, which he dares not presume to hope; so great an awe she strikes into the hearts of her admirers. I do not wonder (reply'd the prince) that Clemene should refuse slaves, being, as you say, so beautiful; but wonder how she escapes those that can entertain her as you can do: or why, being your slave, you do not oblige her to yield? I confess (said Trefry) when I have, against her will, entertained her with love so long, as to be transported with my passion even above decency, I have been ready to make use of those advantages of strength and force nature has given me: But, oh! she disarms me with that modesty and weeping, so tender and so moving, that

I retire, and thank my stars she overcame me. The company laugh'd at his civility to a slave, and Caesar only applauded the nobleness of his passion and nature, since that slave might be noble, or, what was better, have true notions of honour and vertue in her. Thus passed they this night, after having received from the slaves all imaginable respect and obedience.

The next day, Trefry ask'd Caesar to walk when the heat was allay'd, and designedly carry'd him by the cottage of the fair slave; and told him she whom he spoke of last night lived there retir'd: But (says he) I would not wish you to approach; for I am sure you will be in love as soon as you behold her. Caesar assured him, he was proof against all the charms of that sex; and that if he imagined his heart could be so perfidious to love again, after Imoinda, he believed he should tear it from his bosom. They had no sooner spoke, but a little shock-dog, that Clemene had presented her, which she took great delight in, ran out; and she, not knowing any body was there, ran to get it in again, and bolted out on those who were just speaking of her: when seeing them, she would have run in again, but Trefry caught her by the hand, and cry'd, Clemene, however you fly a lover, you ought to pay some respect to this stranger, (pointing to Caesar.) But she, as if she had resolved never to raise her eyes to the face of a man again, bent 'em the more to the earth, when he spoke, and gave the prince the leisure to look the more at her. There needed no long gazing, or consideration, to examine who this fair creature was; he soon saw Imoinda all over her; in a minute he saw her face, her shape, her air, her modesty, and all that call'd forth his soul with joy at his eyes, and left his body destitute of almost life: it stood without motion, and for a minute knew not that it had a being; and, I believe, he had never come to himself, so oppress'd he was with over-joy, if he had not met with this allay, that he perceived Imoinda fall dead in the hands of Trefry. This awaken'd him, and he ran to her aid, and caught her in his arms,

where by degrees she came to her self; and 'tis needless to tell with what transports, what exstasies of joy, they both awhile beheld each other, without speaking; then snatched each other to their arms; then gaze again, as if they still doubted whether they possess'd the blessing they grasped: but when they recover'd their speech, 'tis not to be imagined what tender things they express'd to each other; wondring what strange fate had brought them again together. They soon inform'd each other of their fortunes, and equally bewail'd their fate; but at the same time they mutually protested, that even fetters and slavery were soft and easy, and would be supported with joy and pleasure, while they cou'd be so happy to possess each other, and to be able to make good their vows. Caesar swore he disdained the empire of the world, while he could behold his Imoinda; and she despised grandeur and pomp, those vanities of her sex, when she could gaze on Oroonoko. He ador'd the very cottage where she resided, and said, That little inch of the world would give him more happiness than all the universe cou'd do; and she vow'd, it was a palace, while adorned with the presence of Oroonoko.

Trefry was infinitely pleased with this novel, and found this Clemene was the fair mistress of whom Caesar had before spoke; and was not a little satisfy'd, that heaven was so kind to the prince as to sweeten his misfortunes by so lucky an accident; and leaving the lovers to themselves, was impatient to come down to Parham House (which was on the same plantation) to give me an account of what had hapned. I was as impatient to make these lovers a visit, having already made a friendship with Caesar, and from his own mouth learned what I have related; which was confirmed by his Frenchman, who was set on shore to seek his fortune, and of whom they cou'd not make a slave, because a Christian; and he came daily to Parham Hill to see and pay his respects to his pupil prince. So that concerning and interesting my self in all that related to

Caesar, whom I had assured of liberty as soon as the governour arrived, I hasted presently to the place where these lovers were, and was infinitely glad to find this beautiful young slave (who had already gain'd all our esteems, for her modesty and her extraordinary prettiness) to be the same I had heard Caesar speak so much of. One may imagine then we paid her a treble respect; and tho from her being carved in fine flowers and birds all over her body, we took her to be of quality before, yet when we knew Clemene was Imoinda, we could not enough admire her.

I had forgot to tell you, that those who are nobly born of that country, are so delicately cut and raised all over the fore-part of the trunk of their bodies that it looks as if it were japan'd, the works being raised like high point round the edges of the flowers. Some are only carved with a little flower, or bird, at the sides of the temples, as was Caesar; and those who are so carved over the body, resemble our antient Picts that are figur'd in the chronicles, but these carvings are more delicate.

From that happy day Caesar took Clemene for his wife, to the general joy of all people; and there was as much magnificence as the country would afford at the celebration of this wedding: and in a very short time after she conceived with child, which made Caesar even adore her, knowing he was the last of his great race. This new accident made him more impatient of liberty, and he was every day treating with Trefry for his and Clemene's liberty, and offer'd either gold, or a vast quantity of slaves, which should be paid before they let him go, provided he could have any security that he should go when his ransom was paid. They fed him from day to day with promises, and delay'd him till the Lord-Governour should come; so that he began to suspect them of falshood, and that they would delay him till the time of his wife's delivery and make a slave of that too: for all the breed is theirs to whom the parents belong. This thought made him very