 | Home |
| Page 1 | |
| Page 3 | |
| Text Parallels |
| Home |
| Page 1 | |
| Page 3 | |
| Text Parallels |
Excepting the Cities of Tolanga & Gamba -- whose Kings claimed jurisdiction over an extent of country about one hundred & fifty miles along the River Ohio & about the same distance back from the river, the remaining [43] part of this extensive country was setled in compact viliges or towns. These formed independent sovereigties & were governed by their respective Chiefs. Frequent bickerings, contentions and wars took place among these Chiefs, which were often attended with pernicious consequencies. To remidy these evils & to facilitate & accomplish the great & benevolent plan [S86] of reforming & civilizing the Ohians, Lobaska had formed a system of Government, with a design of establing two great empires -- one on each side of the River Ohio. -- Their [different] constitutions were on the same plan -- & were presented by the hand of Lobaska to the respective Kings of Sciota & Kentuck --
The Sciotan Constitution was comprised in the words. The country east of the great River Ohio shall form the Empire of Sciota -- At the head of this empire shall be placed with the title of Emperor Labarmock the oldest son of Lobaska -- The office shall be hereditary in the eldest male of his family -- He and his sons successively shall mary natives of the kingdom of Sciota: -- & all their daughters shall mary within their own dominions. He shall have four counsellors -- He with the advice of his Councellors shall have the exclusive right of making war & peace & of forming treaties with other nations -- He shall be commander in chief of all the forces -- & the King of Sciota shall be next to him -- All controversies between the Rulers of chiefs of the different tribes shall be refered to the descicion of him & his Counsellors -- & he is authorised to compel a compliance -- He shall hold his settings annually in four different parts of the empire. The King of Sciota & the chiefs of the different tribes shall hold their offices & exercise the same authority in civil matters that they have done -- They shall [S87] be ameniable to the emperor & his councelors, whose duty it shall be to enquire into all complaints against them from their subjects, & to redress grievances & punish for oppression & injustice by fines. -- He and his councellors shall have the exclusive priviledge of coining money -- They may [44] likewise lay taxes for the support of government & for the defence of the nation. -- They shall coin no more money than what is necessary for the convenience of the people & in such quantity only that the value shall not depreciate -- he shall appoint the officers of his army -- except where the chiefs chuse to command their own subjects -- in that case they shall be subject to the command of the Emperor The people in every city, town or village shall respectively chuse one or more Censors -- whose duty it shall be to enquire into all mal-conduct of Rulers -- & all vicious & improper conduct of the preists & the people -- & they shall pursue such measures to obtain justice & to produce a reformation of morals in the offenders as the laws shall direct.
In order that the priests & instructors of learning may know and perform their duty for the benefit of civilization, morality & religion, Lambon the third son of Lobaska shall preside over them & shall have the title of high Priest -- & the office shall be hereditary in the eldest males of his family successively -- There shall be associated with him four priests as his assistants -- they shall exercise a jurisdiction over all the priests of the empire & shall see that they faithfully perform the duties of their office -- They shall attend to the instructors of Learning -- & shall direct that a suitable number are provided thro’out the empire -- It shall likewise be their duty at all suitable times & places to instruct Rulers & people in the duties of their respective [S88] stations --& to labor incessantly to persuade mankind to subject their passions & appetites under the government of Reason -- that they may secure happiness to themselves in this life -- & imortal happiness beyond the grave. -- The people shall make contributions, in proportion to their wealth for the support of their priests -- If any refuse, they shall be denied the privilege of their instructions -- & shall be subjected to the ridecule & contempt of the people. -- For the convenience of the people & for the easy support of the goverment, it is necessary that [45] there should be something which shall represent property -- & which is of small weight. It is therefore provided that certain small pieces of iron -- stamped in a peculiar manner, shall be this circulating medium, to represent property -- Each peice according to its particular stamp shall have a certain value fixed upon it. -- It shall be the peculiar prerogative of the Emperor & his councellors to direct the coining of these peices -- which shall be denominated money -- No more money shall be coined than what will be for the benefit of the empire -- Nor shall the Emperor or hi Counsellors receive any more of it, than an adequate compensation for their services. -- They shall keep an account of the amount of money coined annually & the [S89] manner in which it has been distributed & expended. This amount shall be submitted to the examination of the King of Siota & the chiefs of the empire. The Emperor shall always be ready to receive the petitions & complaints of his subjects -- He shall consult the welfare of his people & save them from oppression & tyranny -- & by his beneficent acts shall gain their affection & obtain the apalation of a just, a good & gracious Prince. --
When Hadoram king of Sciota had received this plan of government, he immediately assembled all the Chiefs or princes within his kingdom Lobaska pointed out the defects of the existing government, & the excellences of that form which he presented for their acceptance -- His reasons could not be resisted -- they unanimously agreed to establish it as their constitution of Government. Labamack accepted the office of Emperor, & his four counsellors were appointed -- Lambdon was ordained High priest & his four assistance chosen -- The new goverment was now put in operation -- The various tribes living contiguous to the empire seeing its prosperity [S90] sollicited the privilege of being received as parts of the empire -- Their requests were granted. Improvement & prosperity attended them -- This induced other contiguous [46] Tribes to request the same priviledge -- & others still adjoining them came forward with their petitions, all were granted & the same regulations established in every part -- Within about three years from the first establishment of the empire Lobaska had the pleasure of seeing his son reign over a territory of more than four hundred miles in length along the River Ohio -- & of beholding a nation rapidly progressing from a state of barbarism, ignorance & wretchedness to a state of civilization knowledge & prosperity --
Having now beheld the happy success of his experiment at Sciota, Lobaska made a second viset to Banbo king of Kentuck. His second son whose name was Hamback was present at the City of Gamba. [S91] His youngest son Kato attended him -- He made known his plan of revolution to Bambo who cordially acquiesed -- & calling together his princes -- they unimously agreed to place Hamback on the throne of the empire south of the Ohio River -- & to ordain Kato as their high priest -- With the exception of names and places the Constitution of goverment was the same as that which the Sciotans adopted -- The same measures were pursued to ensure its success -- A great & flourishing empire arose -- & barbarous tribes connecting themselves with the empire & under the fostering care of the goverment became civilized wealty & prosperous. --
Thus within the term of twelve years from the arival of Lobaska at Tolanga, he had the satisfaction of beholding the great & benevolent objects which he had in view accomplished -- He still continued his useful Labors -- & was the great Oricle of both empires -- His advise & sentiments were taken upon all important subjects -- & no one ventured to controvert his opinoins -- He lived to behold the successful experiment of his institutions -- & to see them acquire that strength & firmness as not easily to be overthrown. [S92] Having acquired that renown & glory which are beyond the reach of envy & which aspiring ambition would dispair of attaining -- at the age [47] of Eighty he bade an affectionate adue to two empires & left them to lament in tears his exit.
These two empires continued to progress in their improvements & population & to rival each other in prosperity during the reign of Ten successive Emperors on the Throne of Sciota -- Peace & harmony & a friendly intercourse existed between them -- No wars took place to disturb their tranquility except what arose from the surrounding Savages, who sometimes disturbed the frontiers in a hostile manner for the sake of gaining plunder. But these attacks were generally repelled & defeated without much loss of blood -- They were in fact of such trifling consequence as to make no perceptible impediment to prevent the population, improvement or prosperity of both Empires -- & happy thrice happy would it have been for them, if they had still continued to have pursued the amiable & benevolent principles which first marked the commencement & progress of their institutions
Their Amusements were generally of the athletick kind -- calculated to improve their agility & strength -- & prepare them for warriors. Wrestling, slinging & throwing stones at marks -- leaping ditches & fences & climbing trees and pricipices were some of their most favorite diversions -- And as they took great pains to perfect themselves in these exercises it would astonish spectators of other nations to observe the improvement they had made in the extraordinary feats of agility & strength which they exibited. --
Other diversions, which had no tendency to fit them for war, they seldom practised, except when in the company of women -- Being taught by their religion the social virtues they manifested a great regard for the rights of the other sex & always treated them with attention, civility & tenderness -- Hence it was curious to observe that [when in the company of women] they easily exchanged the [warriors] ruged [& bold] attitude of the bold warrior for the complasant [&tender] deportment of the affectionate galant -- The amusements which were pleasing to [S95] the female mind were equally pleasing to the men whenever they held their social meetings for recreation. -- These meetings were frequent among the younger class of Citizens, whether married or single -- Various kinds of amusements would frequently be introduced at such times for their mutual entertainment -- but that which held the most conspicuous place was dancing -- But their manner of dancing was different from that of the polished Europians. -- Gracefulness and easy attitude were not so much studied in their movements as sprightliness & agility -- those tunes which admitted the greatest display of activity and sprightliness were generally the most [pleasing &] fashionable -- Hence those Bodies were formed for the quickest, if they keept time with the music were the most admired. --
In small assemblies it was fashionable to amuse themselves [with] at playing with pieces of parchment -- This they denominated the Bird Play. Each piece was of an oval form & of convenient length & width -- & on each is portraied the likeness of a Bird -- All the birds of Prey that came within their knowledge, have the honour of being represented on these pieces of Parchment -- On the other pieces are portraied other Birds of different kinds -- The whole number of the pieces amount to about sixty -- These are promiscuously placed in a pack & dealt of to the company of Players [S96] whose number does not exceed six -- The person then who has the greatest number of carniverous Birds -- by a dextrous management, may catch the greatest number of the other birds & thus obtain the victory. --
During these interviews of the different sexes -- & even in their common intercourse with each other they are always very cheerful & sociable & often display that fondness & familiarity, which in Europe, would be considered indicative of a lacivious character -- but in this country are considered as harmless, as what good [50] manners required. Nothing rude, nothing indecent or immodest according to their ideas of the meaning of these terms, are admissible in company -- & absolute laciviousness would meet the most severe reprehension. --
When a young man wishes to settle himself in a family state, he proclaims it by wearing a red feather in his Cap. This is considered as an admonition to the young women, who would not receive him for a husband to avoid his company -- whereas those whose inclinations towards him are more favourable admit his attention -- from this number he selects one as the object of his addresses -- He obtains an interview & proposes a courtship -- If the proposition accords with her wishes, they then agree on a time, when he shall make known the affair to her parents -- whose approbation being obtained he is then permitted to visit her ten times in sixty days. At the expiration of this time, the bargain for matrimony must be finished. Otherwise there must be a final termination or a postponment of the courtship for the term of one year: [The parties are [S97] at liberty, during the postponment to] But if the parties are pleased with each other, the contract is made & the time for the performance of the nuptial cerimonies is appointed -- An entertainment is provided -- friends are invited -- & the Bridegroom and Bride present themselves in their best apparal -- The company form a circle & they take their stand in the center -- The father of the Bride speaks, For what purpose do you present yourselves -- They answer, to join hands in wedlock. Our hearts are already joined & we have made a solem covenant to be true and faithful to each other -- The company then all exclaim -- “Blessings will attend you, if ye fulfil -- but curses if ye transgress. -- They are then conducted to a log round which, a Rope is tied -- The Bridegroom takes hold of one end of the rope & the Bride the other -- & being commanded to draw the Log into the house, they pull in opposite directions with all their might. Having worried themselves for some time to no purpose, to the great [51] diversion of the company, the parents of both parties step forward -- & giving them a severe reprimand command them to draw in the same direction -- They instantly obey -- & the Log is easily drawn to its destined place. The rest of the time is spent with with great chearfulness & merriment, -- They partake of the entertainment & conclude with customary amusements. --
[S98] The Bridegroom & Bride are now desirous to form a family by themselves -- If there parents are of sufficient ability they furnish them with a convenient house and such furniture as will be required for family use & such other property as they need, to enable them to obtain a comfortable living. But if their parents are poor they receive assistance and contributions from relations & neighbours & are placed in such a situation that with proper industry & econimy, they can live above indigence & enjoy life agreeably. At the time they enter their new habitation, they are attended by a Priest & by their relation & friends -- They kneel in the center of the Room -- & the priest places his right hand on the head of the Bridegroom & his left on the head of the Bride -- After explaining and enjoining in the most solemn manner, the various duties of the marriage state he concludes his injunctions with these words -- My dear children. I conjure you. [as you regard your own peace & felicity -- as you would wish to acquire wealth and respectability -- & set an example worthy of emitation, that as you are now yoked together] to draw in the same direction. They then rise and he presents each with a piece of Parchment on which is written -- Draw in the same direction. All the duties of the conjugal state, in their opinion, are comprized in this [injunction] Command.
[As the Priests & the Censors were [vigilent & careful] to see that parents restrained the vices of their children & instructed them in the knowledge of their religious principles -- the effects were very conspicious Parents] --
Having been early taught to [restrain the] govern their passions & to regard the practice of virtue as their [52] greatest good, it was generally the case, that love, friendship & [S99] harmony existed in families, [& when parents were treated by their children with great tenderness & respect --] Parents manifested an anxious sollicitude for the future welfare & respectability of their Children. & in their turn children treated their parents with respect & reverance. -- Nor did they forsake them in old age -- but provided liberally for their support -- But we are not to suppose that in the most virtuous age of the nation, all were virtuous -- Far from this. But with such punctual exactness were the laws executed, in the most prosperous state of the nation, that vice & impiety had but few advocates & the wicked were ashamed of their own characters. -- Tho’ every vice was prohibited by Law, yet the penalties were not severe -- Murder alone was punished with death -- with respect to other Laws, they were calculated to wound the pride of & ambition of the transgressor, & produce shame & regret --
Adultery is punished by obliging the culprit to were a pair of Elk-horns on his shoulders six days & to walk thro’ the city or vilage once each day, at which times the boys are at liberty to pelt him with rotten eggs. -- The theif is compelled to make ample restitution -- For the third offence he is covered with tar & feathers & exhibited as a specticle for laughter & ridicule. Pugilists or boxers, if they are equally to blame for fighting are yoked together at least one day -- & in this situation are presented to the view of the multitude. They must were the yoke until the quarrel is setled. [S100] Such being the nature of their penal Laws & such the punctuality of executing the penalties on offenders, that crimes were far less freequent in this country than in Europe where the Laws are more severe -- & offenders more often escape punishment. Tho’ learning, civilization & refinement had not arived to that state of perfection in which they exist in a great part of the Roman Empire -- yet the two Empires of Sciota & Kentuck during their [53] long period of peace & prosperity were not less happy. As luxery & extravigance were scarcely known to exist, especially among the common people, [an happy equality was] hence there was a great similarity in their manner of living, their dress, their habits & manners. -- Pride was not bloated & puffed up with enormous wealth -- Nor had envy fewel to inflame her hatred & malice -- As the two empires were not displeased with each others prosperity & happiness -- [& the two goverments had no thirst] nor jealous of each others power -- & as the goverments were not infected with thirst for conquest peace of consequence waved her olive branch & the maligant passions lay dormant -- As avarice & corruption did not contaminate the ruling powers nor bribery infect the seats of justice the people felt secure in the enjoyment of their rights, & desirous to raise up families to partake of the same blessings which they enjoyed. --
We can now trace the causes of their increase & prosperity. [S101] To a religion, which presented powerful motives to restrain vice & impiety, & encourage virtue -- To the defusion of a competant share of learning & knowledge to enable the people to understand their rights & enjoy the pleasures of social intercourse -- To the establishment of political institutions, which garded property & life against oppression injustice & tyranny -- to the knowledge which the people obtained of agriculture & the mechanical arts & their habits of industry & economy -- To the mild nature of their laws & the certainty of executing the penalties upon transgressors -- and to such an equality of property as to prevent the pride of wealth & the extravagance of luxury -- To such causes may be ascribed the rapid increase of population & the contentment & felicity which extended thro’ every of the country. -- We might add likewise the long peace that continued & the friendly intercourse that existed between the two rival Empires -- A peace which had no interruption for the term of near five hundred years -- During this time their vilages & cities were greatly enlarged -- new settlements [54] were formed in every part of the country which had not been inhabited -- & a vast number of towns were built -- which rivaled as to number of inhabitants, those which existed at the time their imperial governments were founded -- Their settlements extended the whole length of the great River Ohio to its confuence with the Mississippi, & over the whole country on both sides of the Ohio River, which are watered by streams which empty into it. -- And also along the great Lakes of Eri & Mishigan [S102] & even some settlements were formed in some part of the country which borders on Lake Ontario. -- Such was the vast extent of the country which they inhabited -- & such the fertility of the soil that many millions were easily fed & supported with such a plenty & competence of provision, as was necessary for their comfort and happiness --
During the time of their rising greatness & tranquility their policy led them to fortify their country in every part, the interior as well as the frontiers -- this they did partly for their own safety, provided a war should take place & they should be invaded by an enimy -- & partly to keep alive [a military] & improve a warlike spirit & the knowlege of military Tacticks. Near every vilage or city they constructed forts or fortifications. Those were generally of an oval form & of different dimentions according to the number of inhabitants who lived in the town, -- The Ramparts or walls, were formed of dirt which was taken in front of the fort. A deep canal or trench would likewise be formed -- This would still encrease the difficulty of surmounting the walls in front. -- In addition to this they inserted a piece of Timber on the top of the Ramparts -- These pieces were about seven feet in length from the ground to top which was sharpned -- The distance between each piece was about six inches -- thro. which they could shoot their arrows against an Enimy Some of their fortificatioins [S103] have two Ramparts, which run parallel with each other built in the same manner, with a distance between of about [55] two or three perches -- Their Gates are strong & well constructed for defence -- Within these forts are likewise a number of small houses -- for the accomidation of the army & inhabitants in case of an invasion -- & likewise a storehouse for the reception of provision & arms, A country thus fortified -- containing so many milion of inhabitants, hardy & robust & with habits formed for war -- might well be supposed as able to defend themselves against an invading Enimy -- If they were beat from the frontier, they could still retreat back to the fortifications in the interior & their make a successful stand -- But what avails all the wisdom, the art & the works of men -- what avails their valour, their strength & numbers when the Almighty is provoked to chastise them & to execute his vengence in their overthrow & destruction --
[S104] As these families were descended from the great Lobaska, they had, during the reigns of all their Emperors been in the habit of visiting each other, but as each Emperor & his children were required not to marry out of their respective dominions, no intermarriages had taken place. They however claimed relationship & still continued to each other, the appellation of our dearest & best beloved Cousen. -- A Cousen of this description, who was the eldest son of Hamboon [56] the Emperor of Kentuck arived at the City of Talanga with a small but splendid Retinue of Friends. -- At that time Rambock, who was the fourteenth Emperor, was siting on the throne of Siota -- He received the young Prince with apparent sensations of the highest pleasure & spared no pains to manifest towards him by his treatment the greatest esteem and friendship. The Emperor had an only son, whose name was Moonrod -- He ordered him to attend the young Prince & to treat him with every to -- of affection & honour. They spent their time in receiving visets from the officers of the goverment -- in viewing curiosities, & in the assemblies of the first class of young citizens who met for recreation. -- Elseon, for this was the name of the young Prince, was, soon after his arival, introduced to Lamesa, the eldest daughter of the Emperor -- She was a young Lady of a very fair and beautiful countenance. Her features & the construction of her person, were formed to please the fancy, whilst the ease, the gracefulness & modesty of her deportment were very pleasing to all her acquaintance -- Her mind was replenished with the principles of knowledge & virtue -- & such was her vivacity & the ease with which she expressed her ideas, that all were delighted with her conversation. -- [S105] No wonder that this fair imperial damsel attracted the attention of Elsion -- & at their first enterview, enkindled a spark in his boosom -- which he could hardly prevent from being discovered thro his blushing countenance & the embarisment he felt in conversation. He strove to erase those tender impressions which she had made on his heart -- but in vain -- every renewed enterview only served to fix her image deeper in his mind, & to make the flame of Love more difficult to extinguish. He reasoned on the obsticles in the way of obtaining this young Lady for his partner -- but instead of cooling it only encreased the ardor of his passion & produced a resolution, that with the consent of Lamesa, nothing should prevent the attainment of his wishes. -- To a mind thus ardent, which possessed the native courage [57] resolution & perseverance of Elseon, the most gigantic obsticles would vanish into vapour, -- Nor was it long before he found that a correspondent passion was existed in her breast. The moment she first saw him her heart palpitated -- her face was covered with crimson. -- She turned her eyes & attempted to speak -- her tongue stopt its motion in the middle of a period -- She hamed -- sat down & observed that she was not well. -- A discription of this scene is painted by a Sciotan Bard in poetic numbers -- he represents the young Lady as recovering in a short time from this state of agitation & confusion & as being afterwards composed, & of having a better command of her passions. To follow this Poet in the description which he gives of Elsion, to whom he attaches a countenance & figure, superior to other mortals -- & qualities which produced universal esteem & admiration, would not comport with the faithful page of history. Suffice it to say that Lamesa was captivated with his person, & was impressed with those ideas & sentiments, that her happiness fled, except when she either enjoyed or antisipated [S106] his company. After Elsion had firmly determined to marry Lamesa he was impatient for a private interview with her to disclose his sentiments -- This occurred in a short time. They were together in one of apartments of the Emperors palace -- the company had all retired. -- I have said he in a low voice to Lamesa -- conceived that opinion of you, that I hope you will not be displeased if I express my feelings with frankness & sincerity. -- You must, she replied be the best judge of what is proper for you to express -- I am always pleased with sincerity. As the sun, says he my dear Lamesa, when he rises with his radiant beams dispels the clouds of anxiety which rest upon my soul -- The Crown of Kentuck will be like a Rock upon my head, unless you will condesend to share with me the glory & felicity of my reign. Will you consent to be my dearest friend & companion for life? There is [58] nothing she replies would give me more pleasure than a compliance with your request, provided it shall meet the approbation of my Father -- But how can he consent, when our Constitution requires that his daughters should marry in his own dominions? Besides my father intends that I shall receive the King of Sciota for my husband. By performing says he, the cerimonies of Mariage at Tolanga we shall literally comply with the imperial constitution, as Talanga is within the dominions of your Father -- But as for this King of Sciota do you sincerely wish to have him for a husband? No, she quickly speaks, anger sparkled in her eyes -- No! The King of Sciota for my husband! his pride, his haughtiness -- the pomposity of all his movements, excite my perfect disgust. I should as leave be yoked to a porcupine. --
These Lovers, as you may well conjecture, said many things too tender & endearing to please the taste of the common class of Lovers -- In this interview, which [S107] lasted about four hours, they exchanged the most transporting expressions of Love -- made the most solemn vows of sincerity & perpetual friendship -- & finally agreed that Elseon should make known to the Emperor their mutual desire to be joined in wedlock. The next day he wrote to the Emperor as follows --
May it please your most excellent Majesty. Permit me to express my most sincere gratitude for the high favours & honour which thro’ the beneficence of your majesty, I have injoyed in your dominions -- I am likewise impelled to request a favour which to me would be the most precious gift that is in the power of your majesty to bestow -- Having contracted an acquaintance with your most amiable daughter Lamesa & finding that a correspondent affection and esteem exist in our hearts towards each other & a mutual desire to be united by the solemn covenant of mariage, I would therefore solicit your majesty’s permission, that such a connection [59] may be formed. -- Such a connection, I conceive, may in its effects be very salutary & beneficial to both Empires --It will unite the two imperial families nearer in the bond of consanguinity & fix upon them an additional obligation to cultivate friendship, peace & amiable intercourse -- It will strengthen the sinues of both goverments & promote an happy interchange of friendly offices. -- As to the objection which might arise from the constitution requiring, that the Emperors daughters should marry in his own dominions -- This according to its literal meaning can have no respect only to the place where the Emperors Daughters shall marry -- If by your Majesties permission I should marry your daughter Lamesa, in your dominions [S108] it will be a literal fulfillment of the constitution. From this ground therefore I conceive no objection of any weight can arise -- Will your majesty please to vouchsafe an answer to my request.
Signed. Elseon, Prince of Kentuck.
This letter was presented to the Emperor by Helicon an intimate friend of Elseon. -- The Emperor read it -- assumed the aspect of deep consideration -- walked the room a few moments, then took a seat & told Helicon that he might inform the young prince -- that he should receive an answer within Ten days. --
But why Ten days -- a long time for two ardent Lovers to remain in suspense -- But the Emperor must consult his Counsellors, his priests -- & the last & most fatal councellor of all the King of Sciota, who presumed to claim the hand of the fair Lamesa -- The affair became public -- The popular sentiment at first favoured the connection -- The Emperors Councellers & his priests were at first inclined to recommend an affirmative answer. But the interest of the Sciotan King soon prevailed -- This produced a different view of the subject -- The Councellors perceived that such a connection would be a most flagrant violation of the true meaning & spirit of the constitution & the Priests considered that it would be [60] an act of the greatest impiety, as it would transgress an explicit injunction of the great founder of their goverment & religion. This opinion had vast weight on the minds of a great majority of the people. The more liberal sort vindicated the cause of Elseon -- This produced a great debate, altercation & confusion thro’ the City -- All were anxious to know the Emperors descision --
[S109] On the tenth day the Emperor transmitted to the prince the following answer to his letter --
To our best beloved Cousen Elseon, Prince of Kentuck. The letter we received from your Highness has impressed our hearts with a deep sense of the honour & benefits which you intended our family & impire -- At first we were inclined to accept of the alliance you proposed -- But having considered the subject with great seriousness & attention we find that to admit your Highness, who is not a citizen of our Empire, to marry into our family, would be a most flagrant violation of the true meaning and spirit of our Constitution & an impious outrage on the sacred memory of its Founder -- For these reasons we must solicit your Highness, not to insist on our compliance with your request.
Signed Hambock Emperor of Sciota.
As Elseon had been informed of the complexion which his affairs had assumed in the court & thro’ the City he was prepared for the answer which he received. -- Without manifesting the least chagrine or Resentment, he appeared to acquiesce in the decision of the Emperor. He displayed in his countenance, his conversation & deportment his usual cheerfulness & vivacity. He continued his amusements, & associated with company with the same ease, gracefulness and dignified conduct which he had done before. -- At the same time his determination was fixed to transport the fair Lamesa into his fathers dominions. -- The first interview which he had with her after he received the Emperors Letter, he [61] informed her [S110] of its contents. -- She trembled, paleness began to cover her face & had not Elseon received her into his arms, perhaps she would have falen from her seat -- However by a few soothing words & caresses, she was restored to her former composure & recollection -- Believe me, quoth he -- my dearest Lamesa -- you shall be mine -- This heart shall be taken from my bosom & these limbs from my Body, nothing else shall prevent our union & compleat enjoyment of happiness. -- Can the ancient scribbling of a great Sage or the decree of an Emperor prevent the Streams from uniting with the Ocean -- with the same ease & propriety can they prevent the union of our hands since our hearts are united. -- with your consent, you shall be mine! Is it possible, she replies, is it possible O Elseon, to disregard the authority of an indulgent & beloved Parent & disobey his command -- This I never did -- What if he should command you says Elseon to marry the King of Siota, would you obey. -- He might she replies, with more regard to my happiness command me to plunge a dagger into my heart -- I cannot endure that supercilious bundle of pride & affectation.
At this moment her maid entered the room & gave her a Letter. I received this Letter she says, from your Brother, who told me it was from the Emperor. Lamesa opened the letter & read --
My dearest & best beloved Daughter -- Having the most tender & affectionate regard for your future welfare & felicity we have concluded a treaty of marriage between you and Sambal the King of Sciota -- This aliance will be honourable to our family -- & be productive of many benefits to the Empire. On the tenth nay from this time the nuptial ceremonies will be consummated in our Palace -- You will be in readiness & yield a cheerful compliance with our will. --
Signed, Rambock, Em. of Sciota,
Had the Lightning flashed from the clouds & pierced [62] her heart, it could not have produced a more instantaneous effect -- She fell into the arms of Elseon -- the maid ran for a cordial -- Elseon rubed her temples & hands & loosned the girdle about her waist. Within about [S111] an hour the blood began to circulate. Elseon to his inexpressible joy felt her pulse beginning to beat & perceived flashes of colour in her face -- With a plaintive groan she opened her eyes once more to the beams of day -- & in a kind of wild destraction exclaimed -- Ah cruel cruel Father -- why have you doomed your daughter to a situation the most odious & disgustful -- As well might you have thrown her into a den of porcupines, opossums & serpents -- With such animals I could enjoy life with less disgust & torment, than with this mighty King of Sciota. -- An aliance with him an honour to our family -- an honour to the decendents of the great Lobasca! -- What wicked councellors have deceived my father & induced him to thro’ me into the arms of this hateful monster -- Ah whether shall I fly & escape my barberous destiny. -- I am your protector, says Elseon -- I am your friend & will conduct you beyond the loving & gigantic grasp of Sambal. -- His loathsome arms shall never incircle my dear Lamesa -- Consent to my request & we will be within ten days at the City of Gamba -- Their you will be esteemed as the brightest orniment of my Fathers Empire. --
No longer she replies, O Elseon can I refuse my consent to your proposal. When a compliance with my fathers command will entail wrechedness & misery thro’ life, Heaven will pardon my disobedience -- Yes Elseon I will go with you -- & place my happiness in your power -- I would share with you the worst of fortune, rather than fall into the hands of this haughty Sambal. [What could she say more, to express the feelings of a heart strugling under the operation of different passions & opposite motives -- She has taken her resolution -- Love has gained the preeminence over every obsticle.]
[At this resolution Elseon was transported with joy -- [63] he now proceeds to form his plans for their flight. On the fourth day after he called upon the Emperor & requested his permission to depart to his own country -- The Emperor importuned him to tarry & be one of the guests at Lamesa’s weding -- But he declined by urging as his apoligy the anxiety & impatience of his father for his return. -- Permission was granted & the Emperor added that he should do himself the honour to furnish the Prince with an escort when he left the City -- Elseon replied that he was not fond of much parade, he would wish the escort might consist of the Emperor’s Children [S112] only with each of them a friend. These says he are my dearest & best beloved cousens, for whom I shall ever retain the most sincere friendship -- Nothing can afford me more pleasure says the Emperor than to comply with your request. -- Elseon took an affectionate leave of the Emperor & on the second day after, being prepared for his journey, he sat off with his three friends and their servants -- Moonrod prince of the empire & Lamesa, with her two sisters -- With each of them a friend attended him on the journey about twenty miles -- They all tarryed at a viliage over night --]
Imagination alone can paint the pleasant & happy scene -- Elseon was transported with joy -- He prest her to his bosom with all the ardor of inthusiasm & she yielded to all his tender & innocent embraces, with a grateful sensibility & modest resignation.
The invention & inginuity of Elseon must now be employed in forming a plan of their flight to his fathers dominions -- As he appeared to acquiesse in the decision of the emperor & had maintained the same cheerful deportment none were suspicious of his designs -- The Emperor & the whole Court, still manifested toward him every token of high respect & sincere friendship. Without any hesitatiion the Emperor cheerfully complied with his request, that his dear Cousens -- the son and the three daughters of the Emperor, with each of them a friend, should accompany him about twenty miles, on his return to Kentuck -- The ritenue of the young Prince [64] consisted of four of his most intimate friends & other servants -- He took care to send their baggage on by two servants one day before they set out -- The morning arived -- the sun shone with radiant splendor -- not a cloud intervened or was seen to float in the atmosphere -- It was the fourth day after Lamesa [S113] had received the Letter which doomed her to the embraces of Sambal -- The Emperor, his Counsellors, his priests & principal officers assembled -- & having invited the young prince & his friends to meet them, they entered the circle with great cerimony. The Emperor then addressed the Young Prince, thanked him for the honor of his viset & expressed his firm determination to maintain a sincere friendship & an inviolable peace with the goverment of Kentuck. Elseon replied -- that these sentiments would meet the cordial approbation of his Father -- who retained the same sentiments of friendship & peace toards the goverment of Siota -- He then thanked the Emperor & whole assembly for the high respect they had shewn him -- This was done with that frankness & apparent sencerity that the whole assembly were highly pleased. -- The Emperor then embraced him & gave him his blessing -- Customary cerrimonies were mutually exchanged by the whole company -- & even tears were seen to drop from every eye.
As the whole of this parade indicates no flight of Elseon & Lamesa, we might now view them, with their select company of friends seting out on a short journey. All mounted on horses, they rode about twenty miles to a vilage were they halted. An eligant supper was provided -- they were cheerful & socible -- none appeared more so than Elseon & Lamesa. -- The next day Elseon requested the company of his dear cousens a short distance on his journey -- When they had rode about two miles they halted & proposed to take their lave of each other. Lamesa & her friend without being perceived by the company rode on. -- It was a place where the road turned & by riding one rod they could not be seen. The [65] rest of the company entered into a short conversation & passed invitations for reciprocal visits & friendly office -- They then clasped each others hands, & bowing very low took an affectionate farewell -- But where are [S114] Lamesa & her friend -- During these cerimonies their horses moved with uncommon swiftness -- her heart palpitates with an apprehension that she might be overtaken by her Brother -- But now a friend more dear, her beloved Elseon, with his companions, outstrip the wind in their speed -- & within one hour & half they overtake these fearful Damsels. They all precipitate their course casting their eyes back every moment to her pursuors. But pursuors had not sufficient time to overtake them -- They safely arive on the Bank of the great River -- Elseon & Lamesa were the first that entered the Boat -- the Rest follow -- & such was Elseon’s engagedness & anxiety to secure his fair prize, that he even seized an oar, & used it with great strength & dexterity -- As their feet steped on the opposite shore -- Elseon clasped his hands & spoke aloud -- Lamesa is mine; She is now beyond the grasp of a pompous Tyrant -- & the controul of a father, whose mind is blinded by the sorded advice of a menial junto of Councellors & priests. -- She is mine -- & shall soon be the princis of Kentuck. Their movement is slow thro’ the remaining part of the journey. -- They at length arive at the great City of Gamba. We may now contemplate them as having new scenes to pass trough. Not to delineate the parade which was made at the court of Hamboon, for the reception of his Son, Lamesa & their friends -- nor to describe the joy that was exhibited in every part of the City on their arival -- & the universal surprise occationed by the story of the flight of these two Lovers -- suffice it to say that those who beheld Lamesa did not blame Elseon. --
As Hamboon was not very punctilious in his regard to the Constitution, being possed of very liberal sentiments, Elseon found no difficulty in obtaining his consent to marry Lamesa -- On the fourth day after their arival, [66] Elseon & Lamesa with each of them a friend -- appeared on a stage which was erected on the public square of the City -- The Emperor & empress with his councellors, his priests, his officers [S115] & all his relation with the principal Ladies of the city formed a procession & surrounded the stage -- The common citizens being a great multitude took their stand as they pleased -- The Emperor & Empress then mounted the stage & united Elseon & Lamesa in the bond of wedlock according to custom -- And as pulling the Log was an indispensible cerimony, one was provided with a rope round it on the stage -- The Bridegroom & bride played their parts in pulling the Rope with such dexterity & gracefulness -- that the whole assembly were most pleasingly entertained. When all was ended -- the whole assembly claped their hands & cried, long live Elseon & Lamesa -- & giving three huzzas the common citizens dispersed -- The rest repaired to a sumptuous entertainment & spent the remaining part of the day & evening in conversation, singing & rereation. --
[S118] Fame with her thousand tongues commenced her pleasing employment -- & as swift as the wings of time she wafted the inteligence thro the City with many distorted & exagerated particulars -- all was astonishment confusion & uproar. Resentment enkindled her indignant sparks into a flame -- & the general cry was revenge & war. The Sciotan King was walking in his parlour feeding his imagination with the pleasing prospect of [68] his future glory & felicity. I am quoth he to himself. honoured above all the other princes of the empire -- & even above the heir apparent to the imperial crown of Kentuck. Who could be admited except myself to marry the fair Lamesa, the eldest daughter of the Emperor, the most amiable, the most accomplished & the most honourable Lady in the universe. This is a distinction which will place me on equal ground with the Emperor himself -- & command from all my subjects the homage of their highest respect & reverence -- Besides I have a soul that can relish the charms of the beautiful Maid -- She will adore me as her Lord & think herself highly honoured & exceeding happy to submit to my most endearing and affectionate embraces. -- But ah mighty Sambal you little thought how soon this delightful prospect would be reversed -- & that your soul would be filled with chagrene, indignation & revenge. -- A messenger burst into his parlour & announced the astonishing tidings of Lamesa’s elopement. -- She has absolutely gone says he to become the wife of Elseon & the empress of Kentuck. -- Not the tremendous roar of ten thousand thunders [spontaneously thro’ the atmosphere] -- could have produced greater surprise -- His countenace was all amazement -- It was for a moment covered with paleness his lips quivered -- his kneas smote together & his gigantic body trembled like the shaking of a tower under the effects of an earthquake -- But soon [after a little silent] his reflections -- & cogitations caused the blood to return with a tenfold velocity into his face -- [it assumed the coulor of redness & clinghing] He assumed the attitude of terrific majesty & poured forth his feelings in a voice more terrible than the roaring of a volcano -- How have I been insulted, abused, dishonoured & outraged. [S119] How have my prospects of glory been instantaneously blasted & my character [become utter] become the ridicule of a laughing world -- What felicities of enjoying the imperial maid in my arms adoring me for her husband are now vanished -- And by whom am I thus disgraced, insulted & injured? [69] By the mock prince of Kentuck -- an effeminate stripling -- a cringing & plausible Upstart. He has robed me of the fairest orniment of my kingdom Lamesa, who was mine by solemn contract -- & must he now revel in her charms, which are mine, & pride himself in those deceitful arts by which he has seduced her & stolen her from my enjoyment. No ungrateful & insiduous monster -- your triumph shall be of short duration, & this arm shall viset your crimes upon your head with a tenfold vengence -- Having poured forth a torrent of the most dreadful imprecations & menaces, he left his parlor, & walked forth to consult his principal officers on the best plan to obtain revenge --
In the meantime, the Emperor less haughty & indignant, & possessed of sentiments more humane & benevolent, sent an invitation to his Councellors to attend him -- They were unanimous in the opinion that the offence of Elseon required reparation -- But should war be the consequence if he refused to return Lamesa? On this question, two of the Councellors contended that a humble recantation would repair the injury done to the honour of the imperial family & the authority of the government. The other two insisted -- [that would not be sufficient] that they should demand in addition ten Mammouth which would be an adequate compensation -- But they all depricated the horrors of war. In the midst of their debates which were managed with great coolness & impartiality Sambal presented himself. I have come forward says he, may it please your most excellent majesty, to demand the fulfillment of that solemn Contract which you made to deliver me your oldest daughter in marriage -- She has been surreptitiously carried off by the young prince of Kentuck -- She is mine by contract & your majesty is bound to deliver her to me -- [I demand] Let her be immediately demanded, & if the Emperor, the father of the young prince shall refuse to return her -- this will [S120] implicate him in the same crime & be a sufficient cause of war. In that case war will be [70] indispensible to vindicate the honour of our respective Crowns -- & the rights of the Empire. I should then give my voice for war & would never sheath my sword until torrents of blood had made an expiation for the ingratitude baseness & perfedy of the young prince -- An humble recantation or the delivery of ten mammoth -- would this be a sufficient reparation for an offence so flagitious -- so enormous. -- No the very proposal would be an insult on the dignity of our goverment -- Can anything short of the repossession of the fair object stolen -- of the invaluable prize feloniously taken from us be an adequate compensation -- Nothing short of this can heal our bleeding honour -- appease the indignation of our subjects, & reinstate friendship & an amicable intercourse between both Empires -- Let a refusal be followed by an immediate declaration of war -- Let the resources & energies of the nation be called forth -- assemble your arrmies & pour destruction upon all who shall oppose the execution of our revenge. -- I myself will lead the van & mingle my arm with those who fight the most bloody battles -- Heroes shall fall before us -- their towns shall be laid in ruins, & carnage shall glut our indignant swords. --
When further deliberation had taken place, the Emperor & two of his Counsellors adopted the advice of Sambal [to demand Lamesa] -- & an Envoy was immediately despatched to the emperor of Kentuck with the following Letter.
May it please your most gracious Majesty.
Nothing could have given us more pleasure than the disposition you manifested in sending, Elseon the heir apparent to your Crown to viset our family. We treated him as our dearest Cousen & as our most intimate Friend -- He was invited to associate with our children & to consider himself whilst he tarried as a member of our family -- Such being the confidence we [S121] placed in his rectitude & honour, that he assumed the liberty to contract the most intimate acquaintance with Lamesa [71] our eldest daughter -- This produced an agreement between them that with our consent they would be united in marriage. -- Nothing would have been more pleasing than such a connection. But we found that it would be a most flagrant violation of the true meaning & spirit of our Consitution & an impious outrage on the memory of its great founder. -- For these reasons we signified our pleasure that Elseon would not insist on our compliance with his request. -- He appeared to acquiese in our descision -- & we afterwards contracted with Sambal, king of Sciota to give her in marriage to him. -- But the after conduct of your Son, may it please your most gracious majesty, did not correspond with the high confidence we placed in him. -- With deep regret & the most painful sensations we are compelled to declare that he has committed a crime, which has disturbed our peace & happiness, dishonered our family, & outraged the authority of our goverment & the rights of our empire. -- He [has] formed a plan to transport Lamesa into your dominions -- To accomplish this [he made use of the most insidus arts] -- He took advantage of our clemency & condescention & the high respect we manifested towards him -- & without our consent & contrary to our will. he has succeeded [in transporting to the City of Gamba] -- in his perfiduous design. -- Lamesa is doubtless with you in the City of Gamba. A crime of such malignity -- committed against the honour & interest of our family, goverment & empire. demands reparation -- Your majesty will perceive that the only adequate reparation which can be made -- will be, the return of Lamesa to our dominions. -- We therefore demand that she be conveyed back with all possible expedition. [S122] No other alternative can prevent the interruption of that confidence, friendship & peace which have long continued between both empires -- & save them from the horrors & calamities of war. --
Signed. Rambock, Emperor of Sciota.
When Hamboon had received this letter, he immediately [72] invited his Councellors to attend him & laid it before them, & as it was a subject of vast importance to the empire he likewise invited his priests & principal offercers to join them in council. The various passions appeared to operate in the course of their consultations. To avoid Hostilities with all its attendant callamities was what they most ardently desired -- & some concluded that if no other alternative could be agreed upon it would be for the interest of the Empire & the best policy to return the princess -- but others reprobated this measure as pusilanimous & cowardly, & advised, if no other reparation could be received -- to retain the princis & maintain the conflict with a manly & heroic firmness. -- What say they, do not honor & justice require, that we should defend the rights of the imperial Family -- If the Sciotan government should demand, that we should send them our Emperor or Empress, would not honor impel us to spurn at the demand & reject it with indignation -- Their present demand is preposterous, & as insulting. -- No satisfaction will they receive for the supposed injury -- except that we should seize the princis of the Empire tare her from the bosom of her consort & transport her to Sciota -- Are we capable of an act so unjust & inhuman -- so base & disgraceful? As the debates were proceeding, Elseon rose -- May I says he claim your attention a moment. -- Undaunted by the cruel demand & haughty menance of the Sciotan goverment, I am willing to abide your decision -- If transporting Lamesa into our dominions, [S123] when she has been most unjustly & inhumanly demanded for a companion, is a crime [so perfiduous & flagicious as] of such mighty magnitude, then inflict a punishment that shall be adequate to the offence -- But if the Almighty whose benevolence is infinite, has designed the union of hands where hearts are united -- I have then transgressed no divine law, but have obeyed the divine will -- I am therefore innocent of any crime. I have an undoubted right to retain Lamesa for my wife -- & no goverment on [73] earth have any authority from heaven to tear her from my bosom. -- Nor will I submit to such an event -- so long as the life blood circulates thro’ my heart & warms my limbs -- If war must be the consequence of my proceedings, [which transgressed no principles of honour justice or humanity, we are both innocent & honourable, it will give me the most perfect feelings.]
I shall deplore it certainly, but will never shrink like a Dastard from the conflict. -- The Sciotan King, who is at the bottom of all the mischief shall never behold me fleeing before his gigantic sword or sculking to avoid a single combat with him. -- You have therefore no other alternative but either first to slay your prince & then like cowards to send back your princes to Sciota -- or else to make immediate preparatioin to meet their threatened vengences with fortitude and courage. This speach of the young prince united the whole council & they unanimously agreed to reject the demand of the Sciotan goverment. A letter was written & an Envoy dispached with instructions to attempt a reconciliation. He precipitated his journey to the court of Rambock & when he arrived he delivered him the following Letter.
[S124] May it please your most excellent Majesty. --
Next to the welfare and prosperity of our Empire we should rejoice in the welfare and prosperity of yours. It is therefore with extreme regret that we view the unhappy difference which has arisen, & which threatens to involve the two empires in the calamities of war -- Had you demanded a reparation for the supposed injury which would consist with the principles of justice & the honour of our crown & goverment, it should be given you with the utmost cheerfulness -- But to return you Lamesa -- who has now become the princis of Kentuck, would be tearing her from the arms of an affectionate Husband & breaking the bond of solemn wedlock -- And compliance with your demand will subject us to the commission of such injustice & cruelty, it must therefore be our duty [74] to declare, that we will not return the young princes -- And as such an event would destroy her happiness as well as that of her affectionate Consort, we shall permit her to tarry in our dominions and grant her protection -- We are however desirous that an honourable reconciliation may take place -- and a good understanding be restored -- To effect this most important and very desirable object, we have given full authority to Labanko our beloved Brother, the Bearer of this Letter, to negociate a settlement of our difference, provided you will receive any thing as a substitute for what you have demanded. --
Signed Hamboon Emperor of Kentuck.
The mind of Rambock was not formed for the perpertual exercise of Resentment & malice. -- And having conversed [S125] a considerable time with Labanco, who appologised for the conduct of the young prince with great inginuety -- his anger abated & he felt a disposition for the restoration of friendship -- but the indignation & malice of Sambol encreased with time -- his dark soul thirsted more ardently for revenge & nothing would satisfy but blood & carnage. He employed instruments to assist in fanning the sparks of resentment & blowing them into the flames of war. Not content to represent facts as they existed -- & in their true colours -- monstrous stories were fabricated & put into cerculation -- calculated to excite prejeudice & rouse the resentment of the people against Elseon & the whole empire of Kentuck. He had recourse to a class of men who were denominated prophets & conjurors to favour his disign. -- They had for many ages a commanding influence over the minds of a great majority of the people -- As they pretended to have art of investigating the councils & designs of the heavenly Hierachy & to have a knowledge of future events, the people with pleasure listened to their predictions [with vast pleasure] -- & thought it impious to question or or doubt their fulfilment. A small company of the necromancers or juglers assembled on the [75] great square of the City & mounted a stage which was provided for them. -- The Citizens attended. It was a prodigious concourse of all classes, of all descriptions, both wise and simple, both male & female. -- They surrounded the stage and were all attention, all anxious to learn the hidden decrees of Heaven, & the future destinies of the empire. Drafolick their chief prophet extended his arms & cast up his eyes towards Heaven. Quoth he -- Heaven unfolds her massy gates & opens to my view a prospect, wide & vast -- The seven sons of the great Spirit seize their glittering swords & swear they shall not be sheathed till blood in torrents run & deluge the fair land of Kentuck I behold enemies martialing on the celestial plain -- & hear warriors & heroes cry -- avenge the crime of Elseon -- I hear a thundering [S126] voice proceeding from the great Throne of him who rules the world -- proclaiming thus -- corn shall not grow on Sciotan fields, nor mamouth yield their milk -- nor fish be taken in the snare but pestilence shall roam -- unless Sciota shall avenge the crime of Elseon. Drafolick ended his prophesy -- Hamack then arose & in his hand he held a stone which he pronounced transparent -- tho’ it was not transparent to common eyes. -- Thro’ this he could view things present & things to come -- could behold the dark intrigues & cabals of foreign courts -- & discover hidden treasures, secluded from the eyes of other mortals. He could behold the galant & his mistress in their bed chamber & count all their moles warts & pimples. Such was the clearness of his sight when this transparent stone was placed before his eyes. He looked fiercely & steadfastly on the stone and raised his prophetick voice. -- I behold Hamboon with all his priests & great officers assembled around him -- with what contempt he declares he dispises all the Sciotans -- they are says he cowards & paltroons -- they dare not face my brave warriors -- Here I see four men coming forward bearing an immage formed with all the fetures of ugliness and deformity -- This they call Sambal -- the King of Sciota -- The whole company [76] break forth into boisterous laughing -- Ah see & they are cutting off his head with their swords yes -- and are now kicking it about the palace --Here is a pole it is stuck upon that and carried thro’ the City. -- O my loving sparks Elseon & Lamesa -- what makes you so merry -- why Elseon says he has outwitted the Sciotans -- he has got the prize & he little regards their resentment. -- Hamack was proceeding with such nonsensical visions when the multitude interrupted him with a cry -- Revenge Revenge -- We will convince the Kentuckans that we are not cowards or poltroons -- Their heads shall pay for their sport in kicking about the pretended head of our beloved King. -- We will avenge the crime of Elseon -- The great and good Being is on our side, & threatens us with famine & pestilence unless we avenge the crime of Elseon.
The arts of these Conjurers were the consummation of Sambal’s plan, to produce in the minds of the multitude an inthusiasm & rage for war. -- He now repairs to the Emperor & solicits him to assemble his councellors immediately proclaim war & concert measures for its prosecution. The Emperor replies, that they should soon be assembled -- But as to war it was a subject which required great consideration. --
[S127] Early on the next day his councellors, priests & principal officers all meet him in the council Room -- He laid before them the letter of Hamboon -- & observed, that tho’ the goverment of Kentuck had refused to return Lamesa -- yet they had offered to make to our goverment a recantation of Elseon’s crime & to pay us almost any sum as a reparation for our injury. -- The council sat silent for some time -- at length the venerable Boakim arose, -- I must beg, says he, the indulgence of your Majesty & this honourable council a few moments -- Never did I rise with such impressions of the high importance of our deliberations as what I now feel -- The great question to be decided is peace or war -- If peace can be preserved with honour -- then let us maintain peace -- but if not, then let us meet war with fortitude & courage. -- As to the great crime of [77] Elseon, no one presumes to present an apology -- Even their own government by offering to make reparation implicitly aknowledge that he has been guilty of a crime. -- But is it of such malignity as to require the conflagration of towns & cities & the lives of millions to make an expiation. -- [Can no other reparation consistent with justice & humanity be received] -- Or must we [compel] in order to have an atonement made for the crime of Elseon, compel the goverment of Kentuck to commit another crime, to separate, to tear from each other’s embraces the husband & wife. -- Such a reparation as this we cannot in justice expect. -- Shall we then accept of no other? -- Cannot our bleeding honour be healed without shedding blood -- without laying a whole empire in ruins. -- Such refined notions of honour may prove our own ruin, as well as the ruin of those on whom we attempt to execute vengeance -- The calamities of war have a reciprocal action on the parties, each must expect to endure a portion of evils -- how large a portion would fall to our share, in case of war, it is not for us to determine -- While thirsting for revenge, we contemplate with infinite pleasure, their armies routed & their [S128] warriors bleeding under our swords -- their helpless women and children expiring by thousands & their country in flames -- But reverse the scene -- suppose the enemy have as much wit as much stratagem courage strength & inhumanity as what we possess, & such may be our situation, when the flood gate is once opened, who can stop the torrent & prevent devastation & ruin -- [We ought therefore] It was never designed by the great & good Being that his children should contend & destroy that existence which he gave them -- They all have equal rights -- & ought to strive to maintain peace & friendship -- This has been the maxim of our fathers & this the doctrine taught by the great founder of our goverment & religion -- Under the influence of this maxim our nation has grown to an emence multitude -- & contentment & happiness have been universal. -- But why can we [78] not enjoy peace with honour? -- what insurmountable obsticles are then to prevent. -- [Why truely, a recantation & property are no compensation for the injury? For other offences these are accepted -- & why must the offence of Elseon be singular --]
The Emperor’s daughter we presume is happy -- nor can it be a disgrace to the imperial family that she has married the son of an Emperor, the heir apparent to his crown -- [But she was to have been the wife of Sambol the King of Sciota?] We can therefore with honour to our goverment accept the reparation offered -- & thus preserve the blessings of peace. But if we suffer resentment, pride & ambition to plunge us into a war -- where will its mischief -- where will its miseries end -- As both empires are nearly equal as to number & resources I will venture to predict their eventual overthrow & destruction.
[S129] Boakim would have proceeded, -- but Hamkol rose & interrupted -- It was impudence in the extreme -- but he had much brass & strong lungs -- & would be heard further than Boakim. -- Such sentiments says he may comport with the infirmities of age -- but they are too degrading & cowardly for the vigor and youth of manhood -- If we suffer insult, perfedy & outrage to pass of with impunity -- we may afterwards bend our necks to be troden upon by every puny upstart & finical coxcomb -- No -- let us march with our brave warriors into the dominion of Hamboon. His effeminate & luxurious Court will tremble at our presence & yield the fair Lamesa into our possession -- But if they should still have the temerity to refuse -- we will then display our valour by inflicting upon them a punishment which their crimes deserve -- Yes our valiant warriors shall gain immortal renown by their heroic exploits. [& by the destruction of all shall who.] Sciota will ever after have preeminence over Kentuck -- & compel her haughty sons to bow in our presence -- Let war be proclaimed -- & every kingdom & tribe from the River to the Lakes will pour forth their warriors anxious to [79] revenge our country’s wrongs. -- Scarce had he done speaking -- And Lakoon the High Priest arose -- [He was in the interest of Sambal & had married his sister. He had taken great umbrage at Elseon for saying that the priesthood had too great an assendence of the court of Rambock.] -- And lifting up his sanctamoneous eyes slowly towards heaven & extending his [right] reverend hand a little above an horizontal position he spoke -- When the Laws which are contained in our holy religion are transgressed, it is my duty as high Priest of the empire to give my testimony [S130] against transgression -- Elseon, the heir apparent to the imperial throne of Kentuck has been guilty of Robery & impiety within our dominions -- He has robed this empire of an invaluable treasure & as this crime is a most flagicious transgression of our divine Law -- it must have been committed in defiance of the high authority of Heaven -- & therefore it is an act of the greatest impiety. The injury, the insult & outrage has not been committed against us alone -- if this was the case perhaps we might accept of reparation -- but it commited against the throne of omnipotence & in defiance of his authority. -- No reparation can of consequence be received except it be a return of the stolen treasure -- or the Blood of the Transgressor -- nothing else can satisfy the righteous demand of the Great & good Being -- He therefore calls upon the civil power to execute his vengeance -- to inflict an exampleary punishment -- and as it is his cause -- & you are imployed as his instruments you may be assured that his almighty arm will add strength to your exertions & give you a glorious victory over your enimies -- The mighty atcheivments of your warriors shall immortalize their names -- & their heads shall be crowned with never fading laurels -- & as for those who shall die, gloriously fighting in the cause of their country & their God, they shall immediately receive etherial Bodies -- & shall arise quickly to the abodes of increasing delight and glory -- He said no more -- he hath discharged some part of his malice again Elseon for saing, that the priesthood [80] had too much influence in the court of Rambock --
The door was opened & it was seen that Sambal, at the head of a great multitude of citizens had taken their stand in front of the house -- all crying with a loud voice -- Revenge & war -- Long live the Emperor & King -- We will avenge their wrongs: This uproar, & the harang of the High Priest determined the wavring mind of the Emperor. -- [But the venerable Boakim & Bithawan opposed the torrent [& stood as stood firm.] They boldly affirmed that a war was impolitic & unjustifiable -- But [they] [S131] Their opposition however was vain -- The popular voice was against them -- & the other two councellors -- Hamkol & Gamasko [gave their vote for war] -- urged with great vehemence that war should be declared. --]
In vain were all the reasonings of the venerable Boakim & Bithawan -- The other two councillors Hamkol, & Gamasko joining the Emperor they proceeded to make out a declaration of War -- It was in these words --
War is declared by the goverment & empire of Sciota against the goverment & empire of Kentuck -- The Sciotans are required to exterminate, without distinction of age or sex all the inhabitants of the empire of Kentuck -- they are required to burn their houses, & either to destroy, or to take possession of their property for their own use & benefit. This destruction is commanded by the great benevolent Spirit & by the goverment of Sciota.
Signed Rambock Emperor of Sciota.
A copy of this declaration was given to Labano the brother & evoy of Hamboon -- He demanded a guard to defend him against the rage of the common people -- who discovered a disposition to plunge their swords into the heart of every man, whose fortune it was to be born on the opposite side of the River -- Labanco was garded as far as the River & conveyed across in safety -- He repaired to Gamba [& there he proclaimed the intelligence of this [81] declaration of War.] & there made known all the proceedings of the Sciotan government.
Here one leaf of the manuscript, pages 133 and 134, appear to be missing. Page 135 proceeds as follows:
[S135] Habelon, King of Chiango was the next proud chief who appeared at Galanga with a chosen band of warriors. He had fifteen thousand who boasted of superior strenth & agility -- Their countenances were fierce & bold, being true indications of their hearth which feared no danger -- They were always obedient to the order of their king who always sought the most conspicuous place for the display of his valour -- Possessed of gigantic strength & of astonishing agility he was capable of performing the most briliant acheivments which would almost exceed belief -- His mind was uncultivated by science & his passions were subject to no restraint -- His resentment was quick & firy & his anger knew no bounds [for expression] -- Nothing was concealed in his heart -- whether friendship or enmity -- but always exhibited by expressions strong & extravagant. -- He had a soul formed for war -- In the bustle of campaigns, in the sanguine field where heroes fell beneath his conquering sword, his ambition was gratafied & he acquired the highest martial glory.
Ulipoon King of Michegan received the orders of the Emperor with great joy -- War suited his nigardly & avaricious soul -- as he was in hopes to obtain great riches from the spoils of the Enimy -- Little did he regard the miseries & destruction of others if by this means he could obtain wealth & agrandize himself -- A mind so contracted & selfish was not capable of imbibing one sentiment of generosity or humanity -- or even of honour -- None however were more boisterous than he for war -- None proclaimed their own valour with so loud a voice -- yet none were more destitute of courage & more capable of treachery, baseness & cruelty -- Yet with the sounding epithets of patriotism, honour & valour -- he proceeded [82] with great expedition to collect a chosen band of [dauntless warriors -- they consisted of] Eighteen thousand wariors. -- Their marshial appearance intitled them to a commander of more generosity & valour, than the nigardly & treacherous Ulipoon.
Numapon, the King of Colorangus [made no] was prompt to comply with the imperial Requistion. Tho’ he prefered the scenes of peace -- & Being very fond of study & of the mechanical arts his mind was replenished with knowledge & he took great [S136] pleasure in promoting works of inginuity. He was farmed for [great] wisdom & [subtelty] penetration of mind, was capable of forming great plans & of prossecuting them with vigor & perseverence -- He was deliberate & circumspect in all his movements [but was always quick, on any suden emmergence, to concert plans & to determine] -- had the full command of his mental powers in every situation -- & even when dangers surrounded him would instantly determine the best measures to be pursued. He prefered the scenes of peace -- but could meet war with courage & firmness. -- At the head of a select band of sixteen thousand men, all compleatly armed & anxious to meet the foe he marched to join the grand army. Not far behind appeared Ramuck the King of Genesco -- [With] Furious & resolute, he had made the utmost expedition to collect his forces -- Nor did he delay a moment, when his men were collected & prepared to move -- At the head of ten thousand bold & robust warriors he appeared at the place of general rendesvos within one day after the King of Colorongus had arived. -- He bosted of the rapidity of his movements & tho’ he commanded the smalest division of the grand army, yet he anticipated distinguished laurels of glory -- not less than what would be obtained by their first commander.
When these Kings with their forces had all arrived at Talanga. the Emper Rambock ordered them to parade on a great plain. They obeyed and were formed in solid collums. The Emperor, then, attended by his son [83] Moonrod, his Councellors & the high Priest, presented himself before them -- His garments glitered with ornaments -- & a bunch of long feathers of various colours were placed on the front of his Cap. His sword he held in his right hand, and being tall and strait in his person, & having a countenance grave & bold, when he walked his appearance was majestic. He was the commander in chief -- & such was the high esteem & reverance with which the whole army viewed him, that none were considered as being so worthy of that station. Taking a stand in front of the army, he brandished his sword -- All fixed their eyes upon him & gave profound attention. -- He thus made [S137] an address. -- Brave warriors. It is with the greatest satisfaction & joy that I now behold you assembled to avenge the most flagitious crimes, of which man was ever guilty. -- Ingratitude & perfedy, seduction, Robery & the most daring impiety against heaven have been perpetrated within our dominions -- The young prince of Kentuck is the monster, whose has been guilty of these Crimes -- Our most amiable daughter Lamesa he has seduced & contrary to our will has transported her into his own country -- wishing to avoid the effusion of human blood we offered to withhold our revenge if the Emperor of Kentuck would restore our daughter. But he has refused -- He has implicated himself & all his subjects in the horrid crimes of his son -- Their whole land is now guilty -- & every man woman & child are the proper objects of severe chastisement. -- The great & good Being is indignant towards them, [& views them with the utmost detestation & abhorrance] -- As we have received our power from him he requires, that we should not only avenge our own wrongs, but likewise execute his vengence on those perfiduous ingrates & monsters. [of wickedness & impiety] -- That this is his divine will has been clearly investigated by our holy prophets & priests -- who have given us the most [indubital] positive assurance that success shall attend our arms -- that we shall be enriched with the plunder of our [84] enimies -- that laurels of immortal fame will crown the achievments of our warriors -- & that they shall be [gloriously] distinguished on the plains of glory like Suns & Stars in the firmement of heaven -- Our cause is just -- the celestial powers above are on our side -- they have brandished their swords & sworn -- that blood shall deluge the fair Land of Kentuck. You have done well my brave warriors, that you have assembled around the standard of your Emperor -- I will conduct you to the field of Battle & direct your movements -- My son Moonrod, whose arm like mine is not enfebled by age, will mingle with the boldest combatants & lead you on to victory. -- By the most valorous exploits [S138] by blood & slaughter we will convince our enimies that we are not cowards & poltroons -- Their ridecule and derision shall be turned into mourning & lamentation -- & we will teach their effeminate & luxurious Goverment not to dispise the hardy & brave sons of Sciota. In full confidence that we shall gloriously triumph -- & add immortal lustre to our names, we will now march forward -- [we will] & avenge the injuries done to the honour of our imperial goverment & the rights of our empire -- & all the celestial beings above shall rejoice in the execution of divine vengence. He said no more -- the whole army with one voice proclaimed -- Long live the Emperor -- We swear that he shall never find us cowards and poltroons. The Emperor then ordered them to march by divisions & each king to lead on his own subjects. They began their march towards the land of Kentuck -- Their provisians & baggage were born on the backs of Mammouth -- Each man had a sword by his side & a spear in his hand -- & and on their breasts down to their hips & on their thighs they wore pieces of mamouth skins to guard them from arrows & the weapons of death -- & on their Caps they wore bunches of long feathers. Their garments were short, so as not to encumber them in battle. -- Thus equipt & ornimented they moved on in exact order until they arived at the great River -- Here they halted to provide [85] boats to transport them across -- Their baggage & provisions were carried on the backs of their mammouth which carrid prodigious loads. -- And here we will leave them for the present & take a view of the proceedings at Kentuck. --
When Labanco had presented to Hamboon the Emperor of Kentuck the declaration of war & related the proceedings of the Sciotan government, he immediately assembled his Councellors, who unianimously agreed to make the most active & vigorous preparation for war. -- The Emperor sent forth his mandates to all the princes of his empire requiring them [S139] to assemble the most couragious warriors in their respective kingdoms, & to march to the City of Gambo. -- All the princes of the empire were quick to obey the requisition of their Sovereign. The army assembled and paraded on a great plain before the City -- Hamboon attended by his two sons, Elseon & Hanock & by his councellors & three of his principal Priests walked out of the City & presented himself before his army. -- His garments were of various colours & his cap was adorned with a bunch of beautiful Feathers, which waved high in the wind -- In his left hand he held a spear & in his right a sword -- His countenance was bold & resolute -- & such was his gracefulness & elocution, when He spoke, that all eyes were fixed upon him & all ears were attention.
My brave Sons says he, I extremely regreted the necessity of calling you from your peaceable employments to engage in the blody scenes of war -- But such is the violence the malice & ambition of the Sciotan goverment that nothing will satisfy them but hostilities between the empires -- They have proclaimed war, even a war of extermination against our dominions -- Nor was it in our power to prevent this most dreadful calamity unless we tore asunder the bond of wedlock betwen the prince and the princis of the Empire & transported her like a culprit into their dominions. This was the only alternative which they offered to accept to prevent this [86] terrible crisis -- & why the vigor of this demand -- Was it because the young prince had violated any Law either human or divine -- No -- it was because the King of Sciota had fallen in love with the princis -- & wished to have her for his wife -- But as she viewed him with the utmost hatred & disgust, he has been disappointed -- To gratify his malice & revenge he has roused the Sciotans to take arms & threatens to deluge our cities with the blood of our citizens & to lay our country in ruins. It is a war on their [S140] part to gratify malice & revenge -- & nothing will satisfy their malignant passions but our complete extermination -- On our part it is a war of self defence -- or self preservation -- a defence which will extend to our wives & our children & to all the blessings & endearments of life. We must either submit to behold [our dearest friends expiring in agonies,] our property torn from us, our houses in flames -- & our dearest friends expiring in agonies, & like cowards suffer them without resistance to cut our own throats, -- or we must meet them like men determined to vindicate our rights -- & to retaliate all their intended mischief. Nor need we fear the event of the contest -- Infinite benevolence will regard our situation, & grant us that assistance which will give success to our efforts -- You my brave sons will be inspired with courage -- Your hands will be strong for the Battle & their warriors will fall before you like corn before the repers sickel -- With all their mighty boasting, & high confidence in superior cunnig & prowes -- Our swords will find a passage to their hearts -- & the vital blood gushing forth, they will fall prostrate at our feet. Let us march then with courage to meet the implacable foe -- determined either to die gloriously fighting -- or to obtain victory. --
Having thus spoken -- The whole army, with a loud voice, replied -- Victory or death -- Lead us on to victory. At the head of this army, which consisted of one hundred & fifty thousand men, he marched towards the great [87] River -- They arrived on the Bank & beheld the Sciotans, all busily employed in making preparation to cross the River.
The Empress -- the princis Lamesa, & the Emperors daughters attended by a few friends & their servants; arived at the place where the army was encaped -- As soon as Elseon heard the news of their [S141] arival, he hastened to the place, & found the company had alighted [at an house] & that Lamesa & her friend Holiza were in a room by themselves -- As soon as he entered Lamesa arose -- The gloom & anxiety which for a number of days were visible in her countenance, at his appearance were dispelled -- He received her into his arms with an affectionate embrace -- & expressed the greatest pleasure at seeing her once more. The tears ran down his cheeks -- for a moment she was silent -- She raised her head & replied -- O Elseon were it not for you I should be the most wretched being in existence & yet my love for you has been the cause of all my present affliction. -- If I never had seen you, those horrid prospects which now present themselves to my view, would never have been -- But you are innocent -- nor am I guilty of any crime. But how can I endure to behold the calamities which must fall upon both nations in consequence of our connection? -- Two empires at war, spreading carnage & ruin -- warriors bleeding on the field of battle -- innocent women & children screiching in the agonies of death -- & towns & cities in flames -- Ah horrid prospect -- Have you & I my dear Elseon produced these dreadful calamities? [Is our conduct the cause which must.] We are not, says he my dear Lamesa, responsible for the horrid effects of malice & revenge, which may be occationed by our innocent conduct. If men will be so indignant towards each other, because we do right as, to massacre & do all the mischief they can, we may deplore their weakness & depravity -- but have no more reason, to make ourselves unhappy on the account, than if these effects were [word omitted: produced] by some other cause -- They alone are responsible for their crimes -- & have reason for unhappy reflections. -- [88]
But how can I endure says she, to behold my dearest friends, become each others implacable enimy? To see them mutually engaged to destroy each others life? -- My Father, for whom I ever had the greatest affection -- & my only Brother are now at the head of one hostile army -- And your Father and you my dearest husband are at the head of the other -- When these armies meet would you not plunge your sword into the heart of my father & my brother -- & would they not do the same by you if in their power? When such scenes present themselves to my view [S142] they pierce my soul like dagers -- & produce the keenest anguish -- O that I could fly to my Father, & on my bended knees implore forgiveness. Yes says Elseon, & when you have done that, he will give you to the mighty Sambol for his wife --
No never, says she, never would I submit -- I abhor the monstre more than ever -- He is the most malignant scoundrel in existence -- To gratify his revenge whole empires must be laid in ruins. What punishment more just than that he himself should fall in battle, & endure the agonies which his vengful soul is bringing on others, -- But as for my father and my brother, they have, by his artifices been deceived -- I conjure, you if you have any regard for my happiness, not to take their lives if in your power.
Their lives says he are safe from my sword -- Rather that my hands should be stained with the blood of your dearest friends I will present my bosom to their swords -- But hark -- there is an alarm -- An express arived & informed him, that the Sciotan army had found means to get their Boats down the River in the night unperceived -- & had landed, without opposition, about three miles below the Kentuckian encampment. -- Elseon then embraced his wife & said, when your protection & my honour call, I must obey. -- He left her in tears imploring heaven to protect him -- & running swiftly to the army he took his station.